Our main headlines at the UK open:

Increased defence spending sustains growth at BAE Systems

Galliford Try gets place on roster for UK schools upgrades

Slump in coal prices unsettles Glencore performance

Today we take a look at full year numbers from InterContinental Hotels and look at the scope for its continued growth.

Stuart caught up with the managers behind the Golden Prospect Precious Metals Investment Trust to get their take on the gold price and why they are still bullish on mining stocks.

Sticking with commodities, we also take a look at the case for nickel as its largest producer, Indonesia tightens supply.

Finally, we take a look at how crypto might be enterering a new phase of maturity and how investors are seeking optimal exposure over maximal exposure.

Look out for BAE Systems and Glencore in today’s company diary.

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