ITV jumps on report of interest in studios asset
Vodafone slips as Q3 results disappoint
FTSE 100 up 0.2, FTSE 250 adds 0.6

Feb 1 Reuters UK stocks rose on Wednesday on a slate of positive corporate updates, with gains tempered by concerns about a slowing British economy and upcoming interest rate decisions from major central banks.

The bluechip FTSE 100 gained 0.2, while the midcap FTSE 250 index climbed 0.6.

The broader European markets edged higher in cautious trading ahead of the Federal Reserve39;s policy decision expected to result in a 25 basis point rate hike.

The European Central Bank and the Bank of England are scheduled to publish their policy decisions on Thursday and expectations are both the central banks will hike rates by 50 bps each.

Even if the Fed does halt rate hikes in the near future, the federal funds rate is likely to remain at its terminal position for an extended period until the rate of inflation recedes substantially, said Richard Flynn, UK managing director at Charles Schwab.

Among single stocks, Entain climbed 2.6 after the gambling firm raised its annual profit forecast.

ITV rose 3 after Reuters reported veteran Hollywood producer Peter Chernin and French TV production group Banijay39;s parent had expressed interest in the British broadcaster39;s Studios unit.

Darktrace shares added 1.7 after the cybersecurity firm announced share buybacks, a day after a shortseller report knocked its shares by as much as 10.

The FTSE 100…