British stocks opened higher on Thursday, supported by investor optimism ahead of a closely watched central bank decision and the anticipated announcement of a trade deal between the United States and the United Kingdom (TADAWUL:4280).
As of 0710 GMT, the blue-chip index FTSE 100 gained 0.25% and the British pound fell over 1% against the dollar to 1.32.
Meanwhile, DAX index in Germany rose by 0.4%, the CAC 40 in France also gained by 0.6%.
BoE rate cut expected
The Bank of England’s rate decision is seen as the major event today, with markets expecting a 0.25% interest rate cut amid tariff tensions.
U.S.-U.K. trade deal expected as Trump hints at big reveal
U.S. President Donald Trump said a major trade deal will be announced Thursday, with reports pointing to the U.K. as the likely partner.
While details are still under wraps, talks have focused on lowering tariffs on goods traded between the two nations.
The deal could mark a significant step toward closer economic ties, with investors watching closely for the official announcement.
Next beats Q1 sales forecast, lifts profit outlook
Next PLC (LON:NXT) has reported first quarter sales that exceeded expectations, attributing the strong performance to a rise in demand for summer clothing due to warmer weather.
The company has also raised its profit outlook for the year.
The retail chain, known for its clothing line, reported an 11.4% increase in full-price clothing sales in the 13 weeks leading up to April 26, compared to the same period a year ago. This growth rate surpasses the company’s initial target of 6.5% growth.
IHG expects to hit full-year profit target
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (LON:IHG), the owner of Holiday Inn, said that it is on track to meet its full-year consensus profit estimate.
For the first quarter, the firm reported a 3.3% jump in global revenue per available room, up from last year’s growth of 2.6%.
U.K. house prices post surprise gain in April
House prices in the United Kingdom rose unexpectedly in April, according to data from mortgage provider Halifax.
The monthly increase of 0.3% came after a 0.5% decline recorded in March.
(This story will be updated)
