UK stocks experienced minor increases on Thursday, ahead of a significant US inflation report set to be released later in the day. This data could potentially impact predictions related to interest rate reductions.
The FTSE 100, the UK's leading share index, rose by 15 points or 0.2%, settling at 7,640. This is in contrast to a 0.8% decrease from Wednesday.
Vesuvius, a company specialising in engineered ceramics, saw a 1% decrease in stock value following its report of reduced full-year profit.
However, CRH, a company providing building materials solutions, experienced a significant 7% boost. This followed an announcement of increased pretax profit, demonstrating robust demands in key consumer markets.
Pharmaceutical company, Indivior, also saw a 1% increase in stock price. This is subsequent to its subsidiary, Indivior Inc., receiving final Court approval of its settlement with the Direct Purchaser class, effectively resolving the ongoing multi-district anti-trust litigation matter.
In a similar vein, GSK enjoyed a 1% increase after reaching a confidential settlement for another lawsuit in California.
Additionally, International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of British Airways, saw a 1.4% stock increase following the announcement of a significant rise in annual profits.
