1. UK inflation softens, making next Bank of England meeting a 'close call'
The Office for National Statistics revealed that the consumer price index (CPI) for June was up 7.9% compared to a year ago, easing from 8.7% the previous month and below the 8.2% that economists had forecast.
2. Lloyds, NatWest and Barclays boosted as inflation reading changes interest rate outlook
“Investors are taking the view that if inflation is on a sustained downward path, then the Bank of England might be less eager to keep pushing up interest rates," said Danni Hewson, head of financial analysis at AJ Bell.
3. FTSE 100 sees best trading day of the year on inflation boost
London's main index finished strongly following signs of slowing UK inflation, up 1.8% to 7,588 points.
4. AI boom sends Microsoft shares to an all-time high
The legendary Redmont technology multinational closed 3.98% higher on Tuesday after chief Satya Nadella disclosed a premium pricing model for Microsofts generative AI software suite.
5. Are we ok that the UK gas network will be 80% owned by Thames Water owner Macquarie?
Yes, the same Thames Water that was recently on the brink of collapse and requiring an emergency nationalisation.