Market Pulse
Europe open: Stocks edge higher as investors eye inflation data
European stocks edged higher in early trade as investors eyed the latest Eurozone inflation data and looked ahead to Thursday’s eagerly-awaited rate announcement from the European Central Bank.
Brewin Dolphin Holdings profit surges while funds remain flat
Investment management firm Brewin Dolphin Holdings’ funds for the year were relatively flat, but statutory profit grew substantially as the company focuses on expansion.
Howden Joinery non-exec chairman to step down in 2016
Will Samuel is set to step down from his role as non-executive chairman of Howden Joinery, the kitchens and joinery manufacturer said.
Acromas Bid sells 13% stake in Saga
Acromas Bid Co has sold a 13% stake in UK insurer Saga in a share placing run by Bank of America Merrill Lynch and JPMorgan Cazenove.
National Express appoints former KPMG vice chairman as non-exec director
Ashley Steel has been appointed as independent non-executive director of National Express, the transport operator said on Wednesday.
Amec Foster Wheeler alliance to upgrade power network
Amec Foster Wheeler has founded an alliance with Clancy Docwra, McNicholas and Morrison Utilities Services to implement a £1bn infrastructure programme in the UK over the next 12 years.
CVC Capital nearing deal for roadside recovery group RAC
Private equity firm CVC Capital is reportedly expected to announced a €2. 2bn (£1. 55bn) deal to take a majority stake in roadside recovery group RAC.
LondonMetric sells PC World property in Hove for £13.6m
LondonMetric Property has sold its PC World property in Hove to clients of Aberdeen Asset Management for £13. 6m, reflecting a net initial yield of 5. 4%.
Wednesday newspaper round-up: Turkey/Syria, housebuilders, pensions, Woodford
The US publicly called on Turkey to do more to close its border with Syria, which has been a major conduit for Isis to bring fighters and arms into the country. As the US announced it would send more special operations forces into Iraq and Syria to take on Isis, President Barack Obama said on Tuesday he had had “repeated conversations” with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, urging him to block off the border to Isis. – Financial Times.
Vodafone extends roaming partnership with Swisscom
Vodafone and Swisscom have extended their partner market agreement by another four years.
London pre-open: Stocks seen higher on positive US cues; construction data in focus
London stocks are called to open higher on Wednesday, taking their cue from a positive session on Wall Street.