The FTSE 100 was on the front foot again helped by hints from the US Fed it might not raise interest rates as rapidly as feared.
The Bank of England makes its next rate decision tomorrow.
London’s blue-chip index was up 39 at 7,575 in early trades.
Vodafone helped the mood as it reaffirmed its earnings guidance for the year in the wake of a 2.7% rise in third quarter group service revenue. The telecoms group is under pressure to improve from activist investor Cevian.
Google owner Alphabet’s results exceeded expectations despite the sourness surrounding tech stocks recently. Profits rose 36% as other companies increased advertising spending.
Retail inflation hit its highest level in almost 10 years last month. The British Retail Consortium warned it will continue to be “impossible” for shops to not pass on rising prices to consumers.
Among the small caps, Cellular Goods claims it has evidence cannabinoid products can counteract skin ageing effects and, in some cases, are more effective than vitamin C treatments. The company’s white paper also found the blends were suitable for soft skin.
AFC Energy shares rose 9% as it had its contract for the Extreme E SUV racing series extended for season 2. All of the vehicles racing in 2022 will use the company’s zero emission fuel cell.
Aminex told investors that progress is being made ahead of a seismic data acquisition programme which will be a precursor to well drilling later this year. The survey will capture some 338 square kilometres of 3D data and is described as an integral step in progressing and de-risking plans for the Ntorya gas discovery.