The FTSE 100 moved slightly higher in early trading, reaching around 7,400.
The London Stock Exchange fell behind its Paris counterpart yesterday for the first time on record. The switch is likely the result of weakness in the pound and recession fears in the UK, alongside surging sales of French luxury goods.
Elsewhere BAE Systems has forecast more growth next year. It said a strong order book and an “elevated threat environment” continued to support defence spending in a number of its key markets.
Vodafone has lowered its sights for full-year earnings and has cut its free cash flow forecast. It warned the worsening global macroeconomic climate, rising energy costs and increased inflation have all hit financial performance.
In small caps, Zephyr Energy upped its forecasts for production and revenue this year from its assets in the Williston Basin, North Dakota, after another strong quarter.
Technology Minerals is progressing on schedule with field exploration work on the North-West Leinster lithium project in Ireland.
And Quadrise Fuels has extended an exclusive deal with partner Nouryon. The company said its agreement will now run for a further three years, into October 2025.