The FTSE 100 was up 43 points at open this morning to 6,304.
The top winner was Tesco (LON:TSCO), up 2% to 170p following a second consecutive quartely sales rise reported in an upbeat trading statement this morning.
The biggest loser was United Utilities Group (LON:UU), dipping 15 points or 1.6% to 941p.
Preview at 7.10am
As the heavens opened in London in an attempt to deter anyone from venturing out to vote in the EU referendum, the stock market is at least set for some sunshine.
Spread betting quotes point to around a 55 point rise for the FTSE 100, which yesterday closed at 6,261.
US markets were soft overnight, with the S&P off three points at 2,085, the Dow Jones average down 49 points at 17,781 and the Nasdaq Composite 10 points weaker at 4,833.
In contrast, Asian markets were mostly firmer this morning with the Nikkei 225 in Tokyo up 175 at 16,241 towards the end of trading, while in Hong Kong the Hang Seng was 80 points to the good at 20,873.
If the forex markets are any guide to the likely outcome of the referendum, the “Remain” camp can draw comfort from the fact sterling has made headway this morning.
Commodities etc.
- Gold: -US$2.50 (0.2%) at US$1,267.50 an ounce
- Brent crude: +US$0.36 (0.7%) at US$49.49 a barrel
- Sterling: +0.92 cents at US$1.1798
- Share tips: Avoid Debenhams and Elementis, but buy Tullett Prebon, according to Tempus in the Times. Sell Debenhams says Questor in the Telegraph.
- Weather tip: Bring a brolly, galoshes and a change of clothes