FTSE 100 extends decline for fourth session amid commodity weakness

The FTSE 100 traded lower on Thursday, extending its decline for a fourth consecutive session and underperforming other European markets, as weakness in commodity-related stocks outweighed stronger-than-expected UK economic data.

UK GDP rose 0.4% in the second quarter, in line with forecasts, while monthly growth accelerated to 0.3% in June, beating expectations.

However, falling commodity prices weighed heavily on the index.

Shell and BP declined 0.4% and 1%, respectively, while miners suffered steeper losses as gold, silver and copper prices retreated.

Antofagasta fell more than 5%, Rio Tinto dropped 4.5% and Anglo American declined 3%.

Precious-metal miners Fresnillo and Endeavour also lost more than 3% each.

Meanwhile, Entain reported stronger-than-expected operational profitability and reaffirmed that it remains comfortable with its full-year expectations.