Full-year numbers from BP PLC (LSE:BP.) (BP PLC (LSE:BP.)) are certain to spark further calls for an increase in windfall tax on North Sea profits, even if its expected US$10bn tax bill of is its largest since 2008.
Expect that to be overlooked, as analysts foresee hefty dividends and a further share buyback announced.
In the US, earnings are due from gene sequencing company Illumina Inc (NASDAQ:ILMN) (Illumina Inc (NASDAQ:ILMN)), which is one of the biggest investments for FTSE 100-listed investment trust Scottish Mortgage (Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC (LSE:SMT)).
Analysts foresee a decline in earnings on lower revenues, as it braces for a reported EU fine of up to 10% of its global annual turnover for closing its takeover of Grail without waiting for antitrust approval.
Significant announcements
Trading update: Syncona PLC
Interims: Alumasc Group, Feedback, Genus, Mattioli Woods
Finals: BP, Kosmos Energy, React Group
AGMs: BlackRock Frontiers Investment Trust, Numis Corporation, Ten Lifestyle Group (AIM:TENG) (Ten Lifestyle Group (AIM:TENG))
Economic announcements: Halifax Price Index (UK), Balance of trade (US), Consumer credit (US)
US earnings: Gilead Sciences, Illumina