The FTSE 100 has hit a new record high as traders bet on the US Federal Reserve raising interest rates before the end of 2024. The UK’s blue-chip index has risen 0.5% to 8,066.39 in early trading, beating its previous intraday record of 8,047.06 set in February last year. A weaker pound against the dollar is boosting the FTSE 100, as many of its companies report their finances in the US currency.