1. Inflation falls sharply in July but core prices remain sticky
Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed the consumer prices index (CPI) fell to 6.8% in the 12 months to July from 7.9% in June, in line with forecasts from the Bank of England and City economists.
2. Aviva lifted by general insurance and better weather
Aviva plc’s results have been well received with shares marked up 1.4% with analysts at UBS pointing out that most financial metrics were ahead of expectations.
3. FTSE 100
London’s blue-chip benchmark closed Wednesday’s session down 32 points, 0.44%, lower at 7,356.
4. United Utilities fined for illegally taking 22bn litres of water during dry spell
The penalty, meted out at Warrington Magistrates Court, follows a probe by the Environment Agency, which uncovered that during a particularly dry spell in 2018, the company had overdrawn, causing significant dips in the Fylde Aquifer.
5. Pride of England: Lionesses reach the World Cup final
The win sets up Sunday's final against Spain, who beat Sweden 2-1 yesterday.