London stocks were set for a firmer open on Thursday after a positive session on Wall Street, as investors await the release of US retail sales figures.
The FTSE 100 was called to open 22 points higher at 7,038.
CMC Markets analyst Michael Hewson said: “Having got off to a positive start to the week on Monday, the last two days have been disappointing ones for European markets. Yesterday’s weakness was driven by a surge in energy prices, which in turn is prompting concerns that rising prices will slow an already fragile recovery, by eroding disposable income for consumers. We could also see business profit margins getting hit as the costs of production, as well as transportation go up….”
Jarvis Investment Management Ltd offers a wide range of stockbroking and administration services and solutions. Their parent company, Jarvis Securities plc (LON:JIM) is listed on AIM.