FTSE 100 opens slightly down as EasyJet takeover developments and Hays’ trading update lead headlines, while Brent crude and gold edge lower.
Market Overview
The FTSE 100 opened marginally lower at 10,471.94, while the Euronext 100 gained 0.04 per cent and Germany’s DAX rose 0.06 per cent. Overnight, the Nasdaq closed higher at 26,206.89 and the S&P 500 finished at 7,543.64, both ending the previous session in positive territory. Market sentiment was supported as Middle East tensions eased, although investors continued to monitor inflation risks and energy markets following recent geopolitical developments.
In commodities, copper edged higher while gold, Brent crude and natural gas all traded lower. Bitcoin rose against sterling. Currency moves were modest, with the US dollar and euro strengthening slightly against sterling, while the Swiss franc and Japanese yen were little changed and the Australian dollar weakened.
Market Numbers
FTSE 100: Down (-0.001%), 10,471.94
Euronext 100: Up (+0.04%), 1,913.47
DAX: Up (+0.06%), 25,133.38
NASDAQ: Up, 26,206.89
S&P 500: Up, 7,543.64
In the Headlines
Takeover interest – easyJet (LSE:EZJ)
easyJet is reported to favour Apollo’s improved takeover proposal over a rival approach from Castlelake. The development could influence the next stage of the bidding process and remains a key focus for investors.
Trading update – Hays (LSE:HAS)
Recruitment group Hays has released its fourth-quarter trading update ahead of an investor briefing. The update provides investors with the latest view on trading conditions and recruitment demand before further guidance.
Currencies (vs GBP)
USD: Up (+0.06%), $1.3414
CHF: Unchanged (+0.00%), Fr.1.0819
EUR: Up (+0.01%), €1.1732
JPY: Up (+0.02%), ¥217.786
AUD: Down (-0.01%), $1.9319
Bitcoin (BTC/GBP): Up, £47,627.47
Commodities
Copper: Up
Gold: Down
Brent Crude: Down
Natural Gas: Down
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