END-OF-DAY REPORT: Headline shares drifted lower in the afternoon session, with a weak start on Wall Street offering no support, with broker news driving the main gainers and acquisitive Unilever providing the headlines.
At the close of business, the FTSE100 was down 25.06 points at 5,573.42 with the FTSE250 ahead 23.65 points at 10,562.65 and the FTSE Smallcaps 11.97 points better at 2,996.52.
NEW YORK
US stocks were modestly lower in late morning trade as investors pocketed some of last week’s strong gains.
LONDON MARKETS
A day spent fluctuating between positive and negative left the main index modestly lower by the close, a weak start on Wall Street offering no support for a late rally.
Household goods conglomerate Unilever provided the headline story of the day, jumping 23p at 1,816p after announcing the acquisition of US-based hair and skin care company Alberto Culver for about $3.7bn. This will add the likes of TRESemmé, Nexxus and VO5 to its haircare products range.
In the Midlands, Walsall foundry group Chamberlin was was of the top risers.
