Theresa May has returned to London disappointed. Her party has not got a majority and has lost key seats and ministers. This has not been a victory for Labour as they are still unable to form a government, but Jeremy Corbyn has confounded his critics, including those within his own party, and led a Labour resurgence.
Sterling weakened this morning, but not significantly. Equity markets in the US declined in the early hours but have rallied since 1am. Asian markets are pretty flat. The global markets have not responded yet. The UK futures market expects a slight decline in the FTSE 100 when it opens at 8am. Nothing dramatic yet.
Theresa May has not been given a clear mandate from the electorate and this diminishes her status as both party leader and prime minister. This weakened position makes Brexit negotiations even more difficult. May hoped for certainty. Her country now has uncertainty and a hung parliament. This can be seen as a negative for markets but it also throws up opportunities. Volatility will rise from its current lows.
These are fast-paced times. We will continue to monitor the situation and respond as the day unfolds.