The FTSE 100 Index Opens 0.20% Lower

The FTSE 100 Index is falling 20 points. Losses were driven by Intermediate Capital (-4.50%), Easyjet Plc (-3.46%) and Rolls-Royce (-1.85%). Biggest rises came from B&M European Value (14.72%), Howden Joinery (2.25%) and United Utilities (1.91%).

The FTSE 100 traded flat to slightly lower on Wednesday after gaining 0.3% in the previous session, as rising oil prices and renewed concerns over US-Iran negotiations weighed on sentiment. With little fresh progress reported in the talks, escalating tensions in the Middle East added to market uncertainty. US forces intercepted Iranian missiles and drones targeting neighboring countries and later struck a command center inside Iran in response. Banks, miners and defence stocks were mostly weaker, while oil majors provided some support, with Shell and BP rising between 0.7% and 0.9%. B&M European Value Retail surged more than 14% after reporting lower annual profits but continued growth in like-for-like sales across its UK and France operations, with total revenue also supported by new store openings. Meanwhile, Howden Joinery gained more than 3% after agreeing to acquire DIY Kitchens in a deal valuing the business at £390 million.

The FTSE 100 Index gained 39 points or 0.37 percent on Tuesday to close at 10378 points. Gains were led by Antofagasta (6.47%), Easyjet Plc (5.43%) and Glencore (4.40%). Biggest losers were Airtel Africa (-5.21%), The Sage Group (-4.37%) and Endeavour (-4.30%).