1. NatWest earnings beat forecasts; upgrades outlook
It did so on the back of a 26% increase in third-quarter profit, driven by expanded lending and stable profit margins despite declining central bank rates.
2. Lloyds and Close Bros tumble on motor finance ruling
In the ruling, motor dealers were said to have a fiduciary duty to customers, a decision that prompted Close Bros to say that it would stop new motor finance lending temporarily.
3. FTSE 100 Live
Stocks fall
4. Thames Water firms up £3bn liquidity extension plan
“Today's news demonstrates further progress to put Thames Water onto a more stable financial footing as we seek a long-term solution to our financial resilience,” chief executive Chris Weston commented.
5. Mortgage rates dip after NatWest among latest to cut
This comes against the backdrop of expectations for another 0.25% cut to base interest in the Bank of England’s next policy meeting in November.