London pre-open: Footsie to edge up

Footsie is expected to edge higher in early dealings following a strong showing from Wall Street yesterday.Persimmon completed 8,976 house sales last year and the housebuilder has seen a 7% increase in sales and steady prices since the start of this year. The number of legal completions was down 12% on the 10,202 achieved in 2008, but in line with the figure flagged in an update in January. The average selling price dropped to £160,513 from £172,994.Irish bookmaker Paddy Power's results last year reflected how well the punters did with profits lower despite revenues rising slightly. The bookie says things are more even this year, despite the bad weather hitting the number of events.Strong demand for the latest home entertainment products despite the economic downturn helped set-top box supplier Pace post a sharp rise in profits in the year to December 31. Pre-tax profits climbed to £69.9m from £13.1m the previous year on revenues that rose to £1.13bn from £745.5m.Motor insurer Admiral reported record profits and sales in 2009, but cautioned conditions will remain challenging for its price comparison site Confused in 2010 as competition increases. Profit before tax at £215.8m was 7% ahead of 2008, while turnover rose 18% to £1.08bn.