The FTSE 100 enjoyed a bright start following news the Federal Reserve held interest US rates last night and ruled additional hikes ‘unlikely’.
Shell gained as the market opened, after unveiling a new $3.5 billion share buyback on the back of better-than-expected first-quarter results.
Embattled hospitality firm Revolution confirmed takeover interest from Piano Works owner Nightcap, as the group continues to eke out a survival plan.
Publisher Reach pleased investors early on, as confidence in meeting full-year expectations despite lower first-quarter revenue sent shares 6% higher.
In Europe, weight loss drug giant Novo Nordisk (NYSE:NVO) announced a production ramp-up on growing US patient numbers as first-quarter earnings beat expectations.
And finally, Uber faced renewed pressure as news emerged London black cab drivers were to sue the company for £250 million on Thursday.