01.05.202507:24:24UTC+00UK Stocks Starts May on Negative Note

The UK's FTSE 100 experienced a slight dip as markets opened Thursday, hovering around the 8,470 mark. This downturn comes as traders embark on the first trading day of May amidst looming economic uncertainty. Investor sentiment remained guarded, influenced by underwhelming economic data from the United States and a close watch on the ongoing earnings season. The focus now shifts to forthcoming UK economic indicators, namely the anticipated consumer credit and mortgage approval statistics expected later today. On the corporate landscape, Lloyds shares fell by 2% in early trading following its first-quarter report. Meanwhile, BP and Centrica recorded more significant losses. Persimmon's shares dropped 2.3% after releasing its latest trading statement, despite the company's continued confidence in achieving its full-year objectives. In contrast, Rolls-Royce defied the overall market trend, climbing 3.3% after showcasing a strong start to the year.