FTSE 100 started in the red after UK inflation numbers came in higher than expected and US retail sales missed forecasts. London’s leading index shed 25 points to 6,340 in early deals. UK inflation rose 0.7% in October from 0.5% in September due to higher prices for clothes and food. It was expected to remain flat at 0.5%.
Boris Johnson is to ban the sale of new cars and vans powered only by petrol and diesel by 2030 in a new 10-point plan to make Britain greener. Hybrids will still be allowed.
British Airways is to launch a COVID-19 test for passengers travelling to the UK from three US airports. The airline is looking for alternatives to the government’s two-week quarantine.
Europa-Metals (LON:EUZ) said a study of the Toral lead-zinc-silver mine project in north west Spain has indicated a significantly larger mining operation than thought is feasible. The new plan envisages a 700,000 tonnes per annum operation over a 12-year life.
Small cap broker finnCap Group PLC (LON:FCAP) saw profits surge by 166% over the past six months. The numbers were boosted by a 53% rise in deal and advisory fees.
InnovaDerma PLC (LON:IDP) the owner of the Skinny Tan and Roots personal care brands, has poached a new chief executive from Philip Kingsley, the premium hair care group. Blake Hughes brings with him “extensive” marketing and digital analytics experience, the company said.
