The FTSE 100 is an index managed by the Financial Times and London Stock Exchange. Alternatively referred to as the Footsie 100, it is a listing which was first released in 1984, and which involves the stock market as determined by the London Stock Exchange. It is also specifically comprised of companies which are based in the United Kingdom. As with other indices, it provides information on the top 100 companies which fall under this general classification, and includes a variety of industries.
Aside from simply providing information on the current activity and performance of the companies included in the index, the FTSE 100 also supplies data on historical facts and the development of the economy since the index was first released. This makes it a very rich resource for research and analysis. It also allows investors to see what their options are in terms of investment opportunities. As such, the FTSE 100 is an extremely valuable tool, not only for those who are used to carrying out transactions in the stock market, but also especially for those who are just beginning to familiarize themselves with stock investments and strategies, particularly in the UK.
One of the strengths of the FTSE 100 is the fact that it presents relevant and timely data. I fact, it is updated every 15 seconds. It is also the most commonly-used indices, even though there are a number of other indices in the roster of the FTSE. In addition, the FTSE 100 represents more than three-fourths of the market capitalization in the United Kingdom.
