Wholesale gas prices fell today to levels not seen since the run-up to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, stoking hopes for a softer impact from energy bills on hard-pressed households and stretched government finances.
London’s FTSE 100 index today made better-than-expected progress in the first trading session of the year. Risk appetite has been boosted by the reopening of China’s Covid-hit economy, with Shell, IAG and Rolls-Royce all posting big gains.
The improved mood also lifted housebuilders and stocks focused on the UK economy, including electricals retailer Currys.
