The FTSE 100 has ended the day up 25.1 points, or 0.4%, to 6,254.9, as energy stocks gave the index a boost.
National Grid posted the biggest gains with a rise of 6.8% to 746.5p, following decent interim results and news of asset disposal and share buyback plans, closely followed by Shire which climbed 4.21% to £10.52. A target upgrade to 460p from 450p helped shares in Bradford & Bingley which climbed 4.11% to 468.25p, closely followed by Old Mutual which gained 4.06% to 185.75p, while Northern Rock added 2.96% to £12.18. Mining firm Vedanta Resources was the biggest drag on the index with a drop of 7.07% to £12.88, on news of a $1.9bn investment in an Indian power plant, while Reed Elsevier ...
To continue reading this article...
Join Professional Adviser for free
- Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
- Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
- Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
- Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
- Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
- Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes