UK equities moved higher against a backdrop of improving sentiment, as hopes of easing tensions involving Iran combined with a broad run of company updates that gave investors firmer points of reference across a range of sectors. The market tone was helped by signs that diplomatic progress may be possible and by suggestions that the conflict could be moving closer to a conclusion.
Barratt Redrow was one of the clearer examples of stability. The housebuilder maintained its full-year home completion guidance and said adjusted profit before tax should remain in line with consensus expectations.
Imperial Brands also offered reassurance by reiterating its full-year outlook. The company continues to expect high single-digit earnings per share growth, adjusted operating profit growth of at least 5% and free cash flow of at least £2.2 billion.
BP showed how market volatility can also create opportunity. Its oil trading arm is expected to deliver an exceptional first quarter after disruption in energy markets improved trading conditions sharply compared with the end of 2025. F
There were further encouraging updates across the market. Tatton Asset Management said full-year results should come in towards the upper end of market expectations after reporting solid annual inflows and growth in assets under management and influence. That points to continued momentum in client assets and supports the appeal of businesses with visible growth and recurring revenue characteristics. Rank Group also strengthened sentiment by upgrading its operating profit guidance to at least £68 million, showing that improved expectations are still achievable in consumer-facing areas of the market.
Fidelity Special Values PLC (LON:FSV) aims to seek out underappreciated companies primarily listed in the UK and is an actively managed contrarian Investment Trust that thrives on volatility and uncertainty.
