UK GDP Beats Forecast, FTSE Rises 0.2%

FTSE 100 gained 0.2% as February UK GDP rose 0.2% MoM, beating 0.1% forecast, driven by services and construction.
Tesco lifted 2026/27 profit outlook to £3.0‑£3.3bn, up from £3.152bn prior year, reflecting modest 0.6% YoY rise.
Ashmore Group AUM fell 3% to $50.7bn, with $1.8bn outflows split between net withdrawals and poor performance.
Rentokil reported 3.4% organic Q1 growth, revenues $1.677bn (+4.3% YoY), while Hays net fees fell 8% YoY, better than expectations.