The FTSE 100 extended its rally to close at another record high, marking a fourth straight day of gains after a choppy session. Sentiment was lifted by data showing a smaller public sector deficit and stronger private sector output, which reduced expectations for another Bank of England rate cut this year. Defence and aerospace stocks advanced as uncertainty over a Ukraine peace deal boosted demand, with BAE Systems jumping 2%. However, the index faced pressure from several companies trading ex-dividend, including Mondi, Legal & General, Entain, and Schroders, which ranked among the biggest fallers.