The FTSE 100 edged higher as investors looked forward to tomorrow’s US jobs data. BHP’s huge payout going ex- dividend was a drag but London’s blue-chip index was up six at 7,156 in early trades.
Barratt Developments profits rebounded by 65% in its latest financial year as it added the current year has started well. “There is very strong demand for houses across the country,” said the FTSE 100 housebuilder.
JD Sports reacted angrily to the Competition and Markets Authority again blocking its acquisition of rival sportswear chain Footasylum. The FTSE100 group had appealed an earlier ruling, but the watchdog reiterated concerns shoppers could face higher prices or less choice.
Engineer Melrose is to return £730mln to shareholders after the sale of air conditioning business Nortek Air Management. The group hinted its balance sheet strength is sufficient to do the same again in the near future.
88 Energy Ltd (AIM:88E, ASX:88E) confirmed the close of its equity placing which raised A$23.96mln, the maximum allowed without shareholder approval. The Alaska focused oil explorer launched the placing earlier this week as it prepares plans for its next steps for the Merlin project.
MGC Pharma PLC (LON:MGC, ASX:MGC) received approval by the Indian authorities to import its phytomedicine CimetrA into the country. It’s the final step towards emergency-use authorisation to treat patients with COVID-19.
Sensyne Health PLC (AIM:SENS, FRA:DSH) has signed a research agreement with Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust. The pair will use AI technology to advance the discovery of paediatric drugs.
