FTSE edges higher in early trade, Pfizer sells down Haleon stake [Video]

The FTSE 100 edged higher as the markets opened, with investors bracing for a busy week of macro news.

On Wednesday, inflation data will be released, before the Bank of England meets on Thursday to decide whether to maintain interest rates at 5.25% or drop them for the first time since August 2023.

In company news, Aviva announced the sale of its Singapore Life stake for £937 million as it continues to streamline its focus towards Irish, British and Canadian markets.

Additionally, Pfizer has confirmed plans to sell part of its stake in Haleon, reducing its holding from 32% to 24% in a sale which is expected to generate around £2 billion.

Early risers include Reckitt Benckiser, which was up following a sharp fall on Friday after it was ordered to pay US$60 million in damages as part of a baby formula case.