FTSE 100 pushed higher again as good numbers from AstraZeneca and Royal Mail helped the mood, London’s blue-chip index rose 21 to 6,545.
AstraZeneca expects profit growth to pick up this year after a strong performance from its cancer therapies in its latest quarter. The group added it might to take 6-9 months to adapt its COVID-19 vaccine to the new variants of the virus.
Royal Dutch Shell Plc (LON:RDSB) told investors its oil business is past its peak, as it unveiled plans to accelerate its ‘drive to net-zero emissions’. Shell’s oil production volumes peaked in 2019, the company said.
Royal Mail Group PLC (LON:RMG) delivered a record number of parcels over Christmas in what it described as the busiest period in its history. 10,000 temps are being kept on to meet the demand with profits this year to be well ahead of forecasts.
Among the small caps, SigmaRoc PLC (LON:SRC) has launched a pioneering new type of concrete block that does not contain cement. It is the first product of its kind in the UK.
Gaming Realms PLC (LON:GMR) had a record month in December thanks to its online casino games licensing business. Revenues this year should be £11mln and adjusted earnings £3mln.
S&U PLC (LON:SUS) said trading remains robust and profitable despite the current lockdown. The motor financing specialist forecast a significant rebound to pre-pandemic levels once restrictions are lifted.