BUSINESS LIVE: Crest Nicholson sees profits falling; The wise man triples the profits; Fuller’s boosted by growing urban sales

Two of the world’s richest men have bought stakes in London stock market stalwarts.

In moves that will shock boardrooms across the city, Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim has bought more than 3 per cent of BT, while US activist Nelson Peltz has taken a major stake in Rentokil.

Digital bank Starling said it is considering listing on the London stock exchange as it revealed profits have risen 55 per cent.

Acting boss John Mountain said the lender’s board is holding regular talks with investors about an initial public offering (IPO).

The pound was trading at $1.2776 at 8 a.m., compared to $1.2841 at the previous close.