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Barratt Developments lifts sales rate as demand remains strong
Housebuilder Barratt Developments improved its sales rate in the 19 weeks since the start of the year and confirmed market conditions remained "strong" with "good levels" of demand for new homes.
Revenue and earnings up at Compass
Underlying revenue grew 5. 8% at foodservice and support firm Compass Group in its first half, it reported on Wednesday, with the figure totalling £9. 7bn in the six months to 31 March.
Tui Group sails ahead as cruises offset tour trouble
After cutting first-half losses as revenues rose more than expected, travel group Tui Group revealed plans to sell UK sailing and outdoor holidays unit Specialist Group.
London pre-open: Industrial production data in focus
Shares were being called to start the day little changes despite the strong performance put in overnight by Wall Street on the back of commodities, especially crude oil futures due to reports of supply disruptions in Libya and Nigeria.
Wednesday newspaper round-up: Saudi expansion, o2, Heathrow, Amazon
The boss of Saudi Arabia’s state oil producer set out plans for expansion yesterday as he prepares for a potential $2 trillion flotation that will create the world’s largest quoted company. Saudi Aramco, which has a monopoly on the country’s vast oil reserves, is set to further boost output despite pleas for restraint from rival Opec members reeling from a supply glut that has lowered prices. - The Times.
Experian hammered by foreign exchange headwinds
Information services group Experian grew total and organic revenue 5% at constant exchange rates in the year to 31 March, it reported on Wednesday, to $4. 55bn, with total revenue from continuing activities sitting at $4. 48bn.
Barratt enjoying strong demand, Tui to sell Specialist arm
London open The FTSE 100 index is forecast to make a 2. 5% gain on Wednesday morning, according to City traders, after closing higher at 6,156. 65 the day before.