FX.co ★ UK Stocks Eke Out New Record

The FTSE 100 concluded Tuesday’s session at 9020, marking a slight increase over its previous record high, largely bolstered by positive corporate updates. Compass Group saw a rise of over 5%, following its upward revision of the revenue growth projection and the announcement of a €1.5 billion acquisition of the Dutch company, Vermaat. Centrica's shares climbed by more than 4.5% after it confirmed acquiring a 15% stake in the Sizewell C nuclear project, aligning itself with major stakeholders, including the UK government. Analysts suggest that this move could potentially enhance Centrica’s earnings and strengthen its financial stability. In a similar vein, Greencore adjusted its profit forecasts upwards, driven by robust sales in sandwiches, sushi, and ready meals, with expectations of ongoing strong performance. Conversely, UK public finances underperformed, showing a June budget deficit of £20.7 billion, the largest since April 2021, significantly surpassing predictions due to escalating debt-interest payments on inflation-linked government bonds. This data has fueled speculation regarding possible tax increases later in the year.