Wednesday preview: ITV, Taylor Wimpey updates in focus

(Sharecast News) - On Wednesday, investors will eye trading updates from broadcaster ITV, Spirax Group and housebuilder Taylor Wimpey.

AJ Bell analysts Russ Mould, Danni Hewson and Dan Coatsworth, said: "Like the entire housebuilding industry, Taylor Wimpey has been on increasingly shaky foundations in 2026 as the Iran conflict and resulting spike in energy prices upended hopes for a gradual retreat in borrowing costs through the course of the year.

"Instead, mortgages are becoming less affordable, and input costs are rising, putting pressure on margins. The state backed Your First Home scheme is a welcome boost, but the Budget revealed it isn't coming until April, and this could potentially delay demand as first-time buyers wait for its launch before making their property purchase.

"Having signalled a second-half weighting to the year in terms of completions, investors will want evidence this is coming through and will be watchful of any downgrades given the difficult market backdrop.

"Considering the sector headwinds Taylor Wimpey is facing, investors will want to see that the balance sheet is robust enough to cope. They will also be looking for an update on levels of demand seen in recent weeks and for guidance on how the company sees things shaping up in the remainder of the year."

Also of note will be half-year results from pub chain Fuller, Smith & Turner and a trading update from Conduit Re. On the macroeconomic calendar, the German consumer price index for October will be among the highlights.