Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news The UK’s blue chip FTSE 100 index has opened 0.3% higher this morning, boosted by a 2.2% rise in Shell ’s shares after the energy company’s update this morning. That puts the UK stock market ahead of Europe, with the Stoxx Europe 600 (which tracks the biggest companies on the continent) down 0.1%. The European index is being dragged down by its tech sector, with the French Soitec – a manufacturer of chip materials – down more than 7% and the worst performing stock in the group.

Our premium, well-invested and differentiated pubs and bedrooms continue to deliver, with Young’s pubs performing strongly in the first quarter. This was supported by favourable weather, a busy summer of sport, with England’s success in the World Cup so far a welcome boost, and contributions from our expanded estate, as we integrate the Cubitt House pubs. While the backdrop remains challenging, we are well positioned and looking ahead to the rest of the year with confidence.

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