FTSE 100 Hits New Record, Experian Leads the Way

The FTSE 100 index is charting new territory as the benchmark UK index surges past previous records, hitting new all time highs, and up almost 10% through 2024. We recap the early movers of the day.

Experian, the multinational consumer credit reporting company, spearheads the London stock market, currently up more than 7% as the outlook impressed markets.

Elsewhere, Imperial Brands stands firm as its reported first-half operating profits align with market expectations with share prices (LON: IMB) trading up 4.5%. The tobacco behemoth witnessed a slight dip in revenues by 2.3%, attributed to the headwinds faced across the industry. Nevertheless, price hikes and shrinking losses associated with new technologies have cushioned its financial health.

In the telecom universe, Vodafone Group (LON: VOD) has infused enthusiasm amongst its shareholders with the announcement of a generous €500 million share buyback and has also seen a 4.5% green day so far on the share price. The telecommunications giant bolstered investor confidence following news of the strategic disposal of its Spanish arm, Vodafone Spain, to Zegona Communications. This strategic reshuffling signals Vodafone's reshaped focus and commitment to maximizing shareholder returns.

However, not all is sunny in the British corporate skies, as Burberry Group PLC, the iconic British fashion house, has absorbed a notable hit to its profits. With a decline greater than one-third, the luxury purveyor wrestles with waning demand that has consequently seen a 4% revenue shortfall and with it, a 3.7% drop in the share (LON BRBY). The brand anticipates the headwind to persist as it strides into the first half of the new financial year, marking turbulent times for the luxury sector.

While the new highs for the FTSE 100 reflect a momentous occasion, eyes will be on the US CPI print for a broader market narrative.