The UK markets are now gaining after a struggling start as millions of people look towards a chilly Autumn with mortgage holidays likely to end as well as the Government's furlough scheme.
Added to this gloomy forecast was a warning from the head of the CBI that city centres could become ‘ghost towns’ if the prime minister does not do more to encourage workers to go back to the office.
Elsewhere Rolls-Royce (LON:RR) reported a record £5.4bn loss in the first half of the year. The jet engine maker is suffering thanks to a collapse in international travel.
British Gas (LON:CNA) has paid £1.73mln in compensation after a botched change to pre-payment meter arrangements at the start of the year. Online retail firm The Hut Group - which owns the Lookfantasic beauty website - plans to list in London in a move that could value the company at £4.5bn.
Among the small caps is Gaming Realms PLC (LON:GMR) which has signed its first multi-state direct-integration agreement with partner Rush Street Interactive - which is one of the fastest-growing gaming firms in the US.
Ariana Resources PLC (LON:AAU) saw an 18% increase in gross income from its Kiziltepe Mine in Turkey as costs fell below US$500 per ounce of gold.
Keywords Studios PLC (LON:KWS) has acquired Maverick Media Limited - a video games creative marketing agency, in a deal worth up to £3.6mln.
