Morning Markets: FTSE higher despite supermarket declines

clock

The FTSE 100 opened positively, up 0.45% or 25.88 points to 5,753, despite food retailers dragging on the index.

Tesco was one of the morning's biggest fallers, despite posting a 10% growth in annual profits to £3.2bn. Its shares fell 0.78% to 434.05p. Fellow retailers also suffered losses as the volcanic ash disrupts supply chains. Sainsbury was down 0.41% to 343.4p. However, Primark owner Associated British Foods jumped 2.92%% to 986.5p, as group pre-tax profit came in at £330m in the 24 weeks ended 27 February, exceeding expectations. Banks were also among early risers. RBS advanced 1.49% to 51.15p and Barclays increased 1.15% to 374.7p. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones closed up 0.67% or 73...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

Advisers predict returns uptick in face of increased market volatility until 2030

Advisers predict returns uptick in face of increased market volatility until 2030

Investor Confidence Barometer from Scottish Widows

Jenna Brown
clock 07 January 2026 • 2 min read
Advisers see more market volatility coming in 2026

Advisers see more market volatility coming in 2026

Uncertainty over the global economy and UK inflation rate

Isabel Baxter
clock 06 January 2026 • 2 min read
FCA's Rathi addresses Autumn Budget market abuse concerns

FCA's Rathi addresses Autumn Budget market abuse concerns

Pens open letter to Treasury Committee

Isabel Baxter
clock 04 December 2025 • 2 min read