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The FTSE 100 in Britain bounced back from initial declines on Thursday, with Auto Trader Group seeing a rise after surpassing profit expectations. However, gains were limited in the energy sector as oil prices softened. The blue-chip FTSE 100 index saw a slight 0.1% increase, while the mid-cap FTSE 250 also edged up. Investors are cautious as they anticipate the release of the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index data, the U.S. Federal Reserve's preferred inflation measure, scheduled for Friday, to gain insight into future monetary policy decisions.

Auto Trader has achieved a record high in its stock price due to a strong outlook for FY25 and impressive annual results. The UK-based company's shares have surged by 10.6%, reaching an all-time high and making it the top gainer on the FTSE 100 index. Auto Trader anticipates an average revenue per retailer (ARPR) price growth of 90-100 pounds ($114-$127) and product growth of 120-130 pounds for FY25. The company also expects modest margin expansion in FY25, driven by the continued strong momentum in the used car retail market. In the past fiscal year, group revenue increased by 14%, with ARPR growing by 12%. Overall, the company's shares have risen by approximately 7% year-to-date.

Dr Martens, a well-known boot brand, has seen a 6% increase in its shares, which are now valued at 89 pence. The company's new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) has announced a cost savings plan aiming to save between 20 to 25 million pounds. This plan comes as the company faces increasing pressure to strengthen its financial position. Dr Martens expects a 20% decrease in group revenue in the first half of this year, with wholesale revenues dropping by a third. CFO Giles Wilson stated that the benefits of the plan will be realized from fiscal 2026 and that the company will undergo "operational streamlining" and other measures to implement the plan. The company's stock has seen a 5% decrease year-to-date as of the last close.

Anglo American's stock is down 2.5% at 2,418.5p in early trade as BHP Group has abandoned its $49 billion bid to acquire the company. If the current trend continues, this will be the fifth consecutive session of decline for Anglo American's shares. Meanwhile, BHP's London-listed shares are also down 1.8%. Despite this setback, Anglo's shares have seen a 26% increase year-to-date as of the last close.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt supported the overseas takeover of Royal Mail's owner, and stated that Daniel Kretinsky's promises not to break up the group could be extended. Kretinsky's EP Group, after acquiring International Distributions Services PLC, has committed to not selling off the profitable GLS parcels arm and leaving the struggling UK letters business behind. Kretinsky guaranteed to keep the group together for three years, but there are concerns that Royal Mail could be broken up after that time. Hunt emphasized the need for regulators to carefully examine this pledge, noting that three years is a significant duration.

FTSE Bias: Bullish Above Bearish below 8220

• Above 8270 opens 8340
• Primary support 8000
• Primary objective 8140 - TARGET HIT NEW PATTERN EMERGING
• 5 Day VWAP bearish
• 20 Day VWAP bullish

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