FTSE100 made a bright start as Britain heads to the polls to deliver in effect a verdict on the PM’s handling of Covid-19 or, in Scotland, whether to stay part of the UK. London’s blue-chip index rose 17 to 7,056.
The implications of the PM’s Brexit strategy, meanwhile, continue to be felt with two Royal Navy warships sent to protect Jersey from furious French fisherman. The French have threatened a blockade of the island in a new dispute about fishing rights.
Next plc LON:NXT) raised full-year profit forecasts again. The retailer, which has a habit of under-promising and over-delivering, posted a 1.5% dip in full-price sales for the 13 weeks to 1 May compared to the year before Covid.
Alphawave IP Group PLC, a Toronto-based computer chip maker, has priced its planned initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange at £3.2bn at the top of the price range according to reports. The company licenses its semiconductor designs to other businesses in a model similar to UK chipmaker ARM Holdings.
Among the small caps, DeepVerge PLC (LON:DVRG) is expanding its data and technology division in Ireland. The plan is to create a dedicated centre to find pathogens such as coronavirus in water systems using artificial intelligence.
Allergy Therapeutics PLC (LON:AGY) has completed the treatment of all patients in a study on grass pollen-induced hay fever. The pharma company has developed an injection to help with symptoms.
Alien Metals Ltd (LON:UFO) has reported encouraging initial results at the Hamersley iron ore project in Australia. The miner has conducted a maiden drilling programme.
