FTSE opens flat as National Grid raises its outlook and BT buys TalkTalk, while softer US jobs data supports markets and Brent crude falls.
Market Overview
The FTSE 100 opened broadly flat but slightly higher at 10,462.38, up 0.004 per cent from its previous close, as softer US employment data reduced expectations for another Federal Reserve rate rise. The Euronext 100 opened 0.03 per cent higher at 1,874.92, while Germany’s DAX gained 0.04 per cent to 25,241.91 as European equities attempted to recover amid easing US rate concerns. On Wall Street, the Nasdaq closed higher at 27,190.86 and the S&P 500 also finished higher at 7,722.72.
Commodity markets were mixed, with copper and gold higher while Brent crude and natural gas declined. Oil came under pressure as Middle East crude exports recovered and G7 countries prepared to release emergency reserves, although regional geopolitical risks remained in focus. Bitcoin edged lower against sterling. The pound strengthened against the Swiss franc and euro but weakened against the US dollar, Japanese yen and Australian dollar.
Market Numbers
FTSE 100: Higher (+0.004%), 10,462.38
Euronext 100: Higher (+0.03%), 1,874.92
DAX: Higher (+0.04%), 25,241.91
NASDAQ: Higher, 27,190.86
S&P 500: Higher, 7,722.72
In the Headlines
Earnings Outlook Raised – National Grid (LSE:NG.)
National Grid expects FY2027 earnings growth to come in slightly above its previous guidance after a stronger first-half contribution from National Grid Ventures and other activities. The business is expected to contribute around £130 million more than previously anticipated, supported by one-off fair-value gains and stronger interconnector performance.
TalkTalk Acquisition – BT Group (LSE:BT.A)
BT Group has acquired TalkTalk Telecommunications and PlatformX Communications out of administration on a debt-free basis, with an expected FY27 cash impact of approximately £400 million. The businesses serve around 2.5 million customers, while BT expects the operations to become value accretive over time as they are stabilised and integrated.
Currencies (vs GBP)
USD: Higher (+0.19%), $1.3218
CHF: Lower (-0.05%), Fr.1.0971
EUR: Lower (-0.35%), €1.1808
JPY: Higher (+0.19%), ¥208.512
AUD: Higher (+0.11%), $1.9028
Bitcoin (BTC/GBP): Lower, £65,318.56
Commodities
Copper: Higher
Gold: Higher
Brent Crude: Lower
Natural Gas: Lower
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