The FTSE 100 is slightly down in early trading with a fall of 6.1 points, or 0.09%, to 6,559.6, despite continued takeover speculation, as investors prepare for inflation data following last week's rise in interest rates.
Wm Morrison Supermarkets is up 2.29% to 335.25p, on reports private equity group CVC is studying a potential bid for the chain, while Compass Group has gained 0.42% to 360p, as it confirmed its Selecta vending machine unit has been sold for £772.5, to the private equity arm of German financial group Allianz. Rio Tinto is among the biggest losers with a fall of 1.48% to £35.98, on reports it has hired investment bank Morgan Stanley to help defend it against a potential hostile takeover bid. Elsewhere Antofagasta is down 1.04% to 547p, closely followed by BHP Billiton which is down 0.41%...
To continue reading this article...
Join Professional Adviser for free
Signup and gain exclusive members-only insights
- 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
