.png){kind=logo}
The FTSE 100 opened the week indecisively, with a 0.01% increase to 9,667.74 as global markets shift their attention to central bank meetings. The US Federal Reserve is widely expected to deliver another 25-basis-point rate cut on Wednesday.
Futures point toward a move to 3.5%-3.75%, marking the sixth cut since September 2024. Analysts expect one of the most divided meetings in decades, with Deutsche Bank warning that four or more opposing votes would represent the largest split since 1992.
Consumer goods giant Unilever has completed the demerger of its ice cream division, launching The Magnum Ice Cream Company (MICC) across the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges.
The new company comprises well-known brands such as Magnum, Cornetto, Ben & Jerry’s and Wall’s, and generated €7.9 billion in revenue during 2024. MICC issued more than 612 million shares, assigning the company an initial valuation of €2.14 billion.
Despite the successful listing, Unilever shares fell 3% to £4,322 in early trade.
Vodafone gained 1.85% early in the day to £95,66 with Babcock rising 1.13% to £1,159 and Fresnillo rising 0.96% to £2,740. Other defensive stocks showed gains with BAE Systems up 0,96% to £1,689 and Rolls-Royce up 0.92% to £1,094. In addition, FCIT also continued trading well, gaining 0.89% to £1,246.
On the other hand, 3I Group fell 1.42% to £3,185, Admiral decreased by 1.28% to £3,076, and Reckitt Benckiser Group had a decrease of 0.47% to £5,940. Intercontinental Hotels decreased by 0.60% or £9,892, while London Stock Exchange Group also decreased by 0.58% or £8,602.
The Smith & Nephew new strategy, called RISE, will enable them to deliver a higher return by creating greater access for patients to accelerate innovation, scale operations, and improve operational effectiveness through improved execution to achieve a better return for both shareholders and stakeholders.
This strategy reflects continued progress made since 2022, when Deepak Nath took over as CEO, and includes updates on 2025 financial guidance as well as a medium-term outlook through 2028.
Market sentiment in Asia remains mixed, with Hong Kong's Hang Seng falling 1%, while the Nikkei 225 is higher by 0%, and S&P 500 and Nasdaq continue their upward motion from Friday.
In commodities, shipments remain steady with gold up by 4.20 per cent to £4214.00 and Brent Crude at $63.91 per barrel.
Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp
_____________
Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance on cryptocurrencies and stocks. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more about the financial risks involved here.
