The FTSE 100 declined over 0.5% to 10,460 points on Wednesday, hitting its lowest level since June 24. Mining stocks, particularly precious metals miners, led the drop as investors reacted to China’s slower-than-expected Q2 GDP growth. As a major metals consumer, China’s economic uncertainty weighs heavily on mining sectors. China’s GDP rose 4.3% year-over-year, the slowest pace in over three years and below both market forecasts of 4.5% and the government’s 4.5%-5% annual target. Chilean miner Antofagasta fell over 3% despite maintaining its copper production outlook, while Fresnillo (-2.9%), Endeavour (-2.6%), Anglo American (-1.7%), Rio Tinto (-1.4%), and Glencore (-1%) also declined. Adding to concerns, rising crude prices raised fears of sustained inflation and prolonged higher interest rates. Markets now anticipate two rate hikes in 2026, with a September increase already priced in.