Morning Markets: FTSE boosted by BSkyB

clock

The FTSE rose by 0.3%, or 14 points, to 5686.32 this morning, buoyed by fighting talk from British Sky Broadcasting.

The broadcaster rose 3% to 599.5p on reports it will appeal an Ofcom demand to offer its sports channels to competitors at 24% below wholesale prices. Unilever, which was upgraded from 'neutral' to 'buy' by Bank of America Merrill Lynch, also rose, by 1.5% to £19.41. Compass Group was up 1.4% at 534p after announcing second quarter sales growth of 1.5% on the back of new contracts. Among the fallers, Segro fell furthest, by 2.5% to 320.6p after going ex-dividend. Platinum producer Lonmin also fell, by 1.1% to £20.27, despite saying a furnace leak in South Africa would not hit ea...

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

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

OBR independence 'a major advantage' for UK economy

OBR independence 'a major advantage' for UK economy

Treasury Committee hearing

Alex Sebastian
clock 20 May 2026 • 4 min read
Bank of England warns of future rate uncertainty after vote to hold at 3.75%

Bank of England warns of future rate uncertainty after vote to hold at 3.75%

One vote to hike rates

Michael Nelson
clock 30 April 2026 • 2 min read
Navigating an uncertain environment: Applying a disciplined, data-driven approach

Navigating an uncertain environment: Applying a disciplined, data-driven approach

'​Looking ahead, the fundamental case remains constructive'

Fahad Hassan
clock 28 April 2026 • 2 min read