BOJ Decision Looms as UK Companies Report Results

The financial markets will be focused on several key announcements and results on Friday. The Bank of Japan (BOJ) is expected to keep interest rates unchanged after a recent hike, with ING stating that 'any modest hawkish shift will not materially boost the yen or alter the USD/JPY outlook.'

The BOJ's policy announcement will be closely watched, particularly for any changes in voting patterns. Governor Kazuo Ueda is expected to return after his illness, and there may be interest in whether any board members vote for back-to-back hikes.

In the UK corporate sector, IAG (BA and Iberia owner), NatWest, and ITV will release their results. Taylor Wimpey, Intertek, Rightmove, IG Group, IMI, Melrose, and Pearson will also report their half-year figures.