UK house prices hit two-year high as confidence picks up – business live

House prices across UK rose by 4.3% in year to August, Halifax reports, taking them close to the record high in June 2022 European stock markets are lower in early trading, as investors anticipate today’s US employment report (at 1.30pm UK time). The FTSE 100 index is down 41 points, or 0.5%, at 8200 points. That would be its sixth daily loss in a row, its worst run since May. “Given the importance of the jobs data, investors should brace for volatility in the wake of the release. Our base case remains for a soft economic landing, though recession risks have increased. We recommend focusing on long-term financial plans and ensuring adequate diversification.”