FTSE 100 edges up as mining gains offset oil-driven energy losses

The FTSE 100 rose about 0.3% on Wednesday, as mining gains and lower bond yields offset sharp declines in energy stocks following another drop in oil prices. Brent crude fell toward $86 per barrel on hopes Iran-Oman talks could improve shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. BP and Shell each dropped over 2%, while mining companies benefited from firmer metal prices. Lower oil eases inflation pressure and bond yields, potentially supporting rate-sensitive sectors. Investors now await Nvidia earnings and US inflation data, which could set the next direction for markets.