FTSE 100 lost some of its early gains as a raft of big names going ex-dividend weighed on the market. London’s blue chip index rose 6 to 7,292.
Harvester and All Bar One owner Mitchells & Butlers (LSE:MAB) warned hospitality businesses face major challenges recovering from Covid due to staff shortages, and higher costs. The group posted its second annual loss running but added sales had started to pick up and its shares rallied.
Hochschild Mining shares rebounded as it said both of its mines in Peru can continue to operate under the existing legal framework following an announcement yesterday from the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. The FTSE-250 company noted the Peruvian government's commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Fuel campaigners have demanded an inquiry into ‘rip-off pump prices’ and want urgent government intervention. The Petrol Retailers' Association said rising costs and a weaker pound are to blame for rising prices
Clipper Logistics is setting up a joint venture with Farfetch, which operates a platform for the luxury fashion industry. The tie-up will create a logistics offering for inventory from Farfetch's group of companies such a N Brown.
Tharisa, the South Africa-based chrome and platinum producer, said earnings in the year to end September 2021 rose by between 128% to 134%. Operational improvements, higher PGM basket and improved chrome concentrate prices are behind the increase.