Image Source: Pexels
The FTSE 100, the UK’s main stock index, fell on Friday, weighed down by declines in defense and utility shares, while Direct Line surged following Aviva’s decision to acquire the insurer. The blue-chip index was down 0.4% heading into the close. Halifax reported that the UK property market picked up pace in November, with a notable 1.3% increase in house prices compared to October. This surge represents the most significant monthly gain for the year. On an annual scale, property prices grew by 4.8%, the highest rate of growth seen since November 2022. In an interview, Jonathan Reynolds, Britain’s business and trade minister, indicated that the country will thoughtfully assess its response if Donald Trump’s upcoming administration introduces new tariffs. Domestic investors are anxious following Trump’s proposal for broad tariffs of 10% to 20% on nearly all imports, particularly as he has already pledged significant tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. Additionally, Megan Greene, a policymaker at the Bank of England, stated on Thursday that it is still unclear whether the increased U.S. tariffs would result in higher or lower inflation in the UK.Single Stock Stories:
UK Direct Line saw a significant gain of 7.6%, bringing its share price close to a 2.5-year high of 254p, making it the top percentage gainer on the FTSE midcap index. The British insurer is poised to endorse Aviva’s enhanced takeover proposal, valued at £3.61 billion ($4.6 billion), which includes a combination of cash and stock. This new offer values Direct Line at 275p per share, a notable increase from the rejected bid of 250p in cash and shares from the previous week. Under British takeover regulations, Aviva has until December 25 to either formalize its offer or withdraw from the negotiations. Meanwhile, Aviva’s share price increased slightly by 0.5%, reaching 491.8p. Year-to-date, Direct Line has climbed approximately 40%, compared to Aviva’s 13% gain.
Shares Berkeley Group Holdings decreased by as much as 2.3%, bringing the stock down to 4,072p and making it one of the top percentage losers on the FTSE 100 index. The British high-end home builder expressed a cautious outlook regarding near-term demand after reporting a nearly 8% decline in its first-half profits, with ongoing affordability concerns impacting sentiment within the sector. CEO Rob Perrins stated, “While we have seen a slight uptick in recent weeks, a meaningful recovery will require a sustained improvement in consumer confidence and stability in the wider macroeconomic environment.” The company reported a first-half pre-tax profit of £275.1 million ($351 million), compared to £298 million the previous year. Currently, the stock is down 1.3%, bringing its year-to-date losses to approximately 12%.
Broker Updates:
Shares Spirax Group Plc fell by as much as 2.8% after JP Morgan downgraded its rating for the British manufacturer of steam management systems and peristaltic pumps, changing it from “overweight” to “neutral.” The investment bank also lowered its target price from 9,300p to 7,800p. JP Morgan analysts indicated that there could be further downgrades to the FY25 forecasts in the near future due to adjustments in margin expectations, highlighting potential challenges for Spirax from its Steam Thermal Solutions operations in China. Among 18 analysts surveyed, four have rated Spirax as “buy” or higher, 12 as “hold,” and two as “sell” or lower, with a median price target of 8,000p, according to LSEG data. Currently, the stock is at its session low, resulting in year-to-date losses of around 31%.
Technical & Trade ViewFTSE Bias: Bullish Above Bearish below 8225
More By This Author:Daily Market Outlook – Friday, Dec. 6
FTSE Fighting The Flatline As French Crisis Remains Front And Centre
FX Options Insights – Thursday, Dec. 5
