Markets report: Brexit deal optimism boosts sterling

Sterling hit its highest level in six weeks against the US dollar yesterday, gaining 1.7pc to $1.3157 over mounting optimism that an EU deal will be done. The jump was the largest since March 27, when it shot up 2.2pc. Brexit negotiations are due to start again after coming to a halt last week, reported Bloomberg, with the two sides aiming to reach a trade deal by mid-November. The FTSE 100 came under pressure from a rising pound and dropped almost 2pc to its lowest level since May 14. The FTSE