The FTSE 100 showed signs of recovery at the opening, rising after recent significant declines due to concerns over the US economy. Positive news came from the retail sector, with data showing a 0.5% increase in sales for July, coinciding with the arrival of summer.
Holiday Inn owner IHG saw gains as improvements in its American business offset weaknesses in China, resulting in a 7% rise in first-half revenue.
Abrdn experienced a surge as interim results showed a slight profit increase and progress on its transformation plan.
Domino’s Pizza reported a favourable start, citing a return to sales growth in its interim results.
Additionally, Thames, Yorkshire, and Northumbria Water were in the spotlight as Ofwat announced it was considering issuing combined record fines for sewage spills.