The FTSE 100 made another losing start after a mixed day for US markets and losses overnight in Asia.
London’s blue-chip index was down 19 points in early trades at 7,663 with a slew of company updates also affecting the mood.
Wealth manager St James Place slumped into a loss after taking a £426 million provision for potential refunds over its handling of complaints, which soared in the second half of 2023.
Retailer Halfords issued a profit warning as it said the weather, weak consumer confidence and a tough cycling market had hit footfall in its stores.
Aston Martin Lagonda did better and cut its losses slightly as average selling prices for its luxury supercars hit record levels.
Housebuilder Taylor Wimpey also beat forecasts and said the market outlook is improving even though revenues fell by 20% and profits by 48% in 2023.