FTSE 100 ticks up in caution ahead of BoE rate decision

What happened: London shares edged higher on Wednesday after the previous session's pullback, with gains capped by caution ahead of Thursday's Bank of England policy decision. Key numbers: M&S adjusted profit before tax was £403.2 million for the six months ended September 26, versus £184.1 million Why it matters: Traders took profits in M&S despite the earnings beat, tracking a cautious mood among high-street names after Associated British Foods warned of margin headwinds. Allocators are watching whether the MPC signals the anticipated hike marks the terminal peak of the tightening cycle.

London shares edged higher on Wednesday after the previous session's pullback, with gains capped by caution ahead of Thursday's Bank of England policy decision.

Traders took profits in M&S despite the earnings beat, tracking a cautious mood among high-street names after Associated British Foods warned of margin headwinds. Allocators are watching whether the MPC signals the anticipated hike marks the terminal peak of the tightening cycle.