Three key news stories unfolding as the UK stock market opens. Check out our companies reporting diary for upcoming results from FTSE 350 and selected international stocks.
1. Rio and Glencore dig in to merger talks again
Some massive news from the mining world today with confirmation that Rio Tinto [LON:RIO] and Glencore [LON:GLEN] are considering a possible combination of some or all of their businesses, which could be as far as all-share merger. Rio would be the lead party and on current market capitalisations, the combined entity would become the fourth largest company listed in London. There’s no guarantee that the deal will complete but the formal offer window is now open for the next four weeks.
2. Festive cheer sees free cashflow forecasts rise at Sainsbury
Retailer J Sainsbury [LON:SBRY] issued a trading statement this morning regarding its performance over the festive period. Grocery sales were up and almost 5% gaining market share in the process but general merchandise and Argos channels contracted. Retail underlying profits for the year are expected to exceed £1bn and free cashflow forecasts have been upgraded by 10%, too, highlighting that costs have been kept in check. Capital return plans also remain on track.
3. Unite Students Q4 trading update leaves room for improvement
Property manager Unite Students [LON:UTG] issued a trading update this morning noting sales progress slightly softer than the comparatives, but this is also accompanied by news that a £100m share buyback has been launched. Fund valuations have also been trimmed, so whilst there’s no real red flags here, a number of marginal factors could be combining that have the potential to dampen shareholder enthusiasm to a degree.
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