UK stocks: Factors to watch on October 1
EWU•Britain’s FTSE 100 was seen opening 0.5% lower on Thursday, after closing down 0.29% on Wednesday. Updates included a reported potential $9 billion sale of Boots and UK regulatory and company news.
1. Market outlook
FTSE 100 futures were down 0.5%, pointing to a lower open on Thursday. The blue-chip index closed down 0.29% on Wednesday after a monthly loss, as persistent inflation concerns and rising bond yields dampened investor sentiment.
2. Company and policy news
Sycamore Partners is close to selling Boots to the Weston family for about $9 billion, reportedly. Nubank said it is not pursuing a deal with Monzo, while Rio Tinto secured government agreements to keep its Bell Bay Aluminium smelter operating through 2031. Britain’s financial regulator dropped plans for a new climate-reporting standard for listed companies, retaining a “comply or explain” approach.
3. Commodities and diary
Oil and gold prices were flat in early Asian trade. Aluminium fell to its lowest level in more than two months. Topps Tiles and PZ Cussons were scheduled to issue trading statements.
