Barclays, IAG and Rightmove

“The FTSE100 started the last session of the trading week on the back foot, extending yesterday's downturn, with an element of profit taking at play. This was also seen in Asian markets overnight, while US markets were mixed,” says AJ Bell Investment Director Russ Mould.

“Barclays edged higher in early trading after a 13% increase in first half pre-tax profits. The improvement was driven by materially lower losses in its non-core business. The group’s core pre-tax profits fell by 25% to £2,988m as it continues to be haunted charges for payment protection insurance. Barclays has set aside a further £700m for PPI compensation, up from £400m a year ago.

“International Consolidated Airlines Group’s shares rose after a bullish full-year forecast following improved first half figures. British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus all reported increased profits while Vueling's losses of €6m were down from €54m a year ago. IAG had a very strong second quarter and sales continue to be well ahead of forecasts. IAG is on course to deliver a double-digit percentage improvement in operating profits for the full year. IAG’s shares were up by just over 1%.

“Rightmove increased its first half dividend by 16% following a double-digit increase in revenues. Visits to the website have risen by 3% to 131.8 million per month since a year ago and the average revenue per advertiser increased 10% to £911 per month. Rightmove’s shares were down by 0.7% in early trading.”

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