The FTSE 100 took a hit on Friday morning after news broke that Israel launched its previously promised attack on Iran overnight.
Gold and oil prices soared, jumping 1.6% and 4.4% in a matter of hours on news of the strike, which is said to have included drones and a missile.
Back in the UK, retail data showed sales stagnated in March, failing to increase as expected. William Hill owner 888 climbed in early trading after the bookie said first-quarter revenue came in ahead of guidance.
Investment manager Man Group fell on reports of a US$1.6 billion net outflow in the three months to March.
Finally, small-cap 88 Energy soared after the oil firm said studies were taking place at its Alaska project with a view to upgrading estimates as farm-out options were also explored.