FTSE 100 lifts off as BP profits surge
After slipping last week to a low-point of 7,447, the FTSE 100 has risen again, driven by a flurry of strong third quarter updates.
After slipping last week to a low-point of 7,447, the FTSE 100 has risen again, driven by a flurry of strong third quarter updates.
Taylor Wimpey and BP impressed markets today with their interim results, but sector headwinds and cashflow concerns still remain.
Last week’s oil price slump has analysts rattled, with experts questioning the recent gains in the commodity’s prices.
The FTSE 100 smashed the 7,270 mark on Thursday morning after Shell reported earnings growth and HSBC’s profits beat analyst expectations.
The first quarter has proved lucrative for the gargantuan oil companies of Exxon, Chevron and BP. But are their fortunes purely macro-driven or are there other reasons for investors to reconsider the sector?
Though BP rebounded from its substantial loss last year and was bullish on the future, analysts question the group’s preparedness to face pricing volatility.
Shares in BP fell by 3.8% to 465.6p mid-morning on Tuesday, as shares in rival Royal Dutch Shell soared upward by 3.5% to 2188.1p.
The FTSE 100 was virtually flat on Tuesday at 6721 as BP reported lacklustre numbers.
OPEC announced that the cartel will not cut output at its policy meeting on Friday.
Increasing levels of M&A activity can reverse the fortunes of ‘dog fund’ M&G Recovery, according to manager Tom Dobell.
Incoming OMGI chief executive Richard Buxton has stressed the £2.2bn UK Alpha Fund will still account for more than half of his time, addressing fears that his new role could see him lose focus on investment.
Investors who invest in the flagging oil trade now will reap the rewards five year down the line, according to Franklin Templeton’s Dylan Ball.