The FTSE 100 share index has ended 2016 at an all-time high of 7142, breaking its closing record for a third straight day.

The London market's previous record high of 7129 was achieved in mid-session trading on 11 October.

This year has seen the index achieve its best annual performance since 2013, ending the year 14% up.

The FTSE 100 is dominated by multi-national companies that have benefited from the UK's decision to leave the EU.

These companies tend to have earnings in foreign currencies, like the US dollar, which have been buoyed by the decline in the value of Sterling.


The pound fell again on Friday, ending the year 18% lower against the US dollar than it was at the time of the referendum.

The pound is 11% lower against the Euro than it was at the time of June's vote.

The FTSE 100 has been Europe's best performing major stock market this year.

The FTSE 250, which consists largely of UK based manufacturers and retailers, ended the year 3% higher at 18,077.