UK equities inched up modestly as investors reacted positively to a recent meeting in Washington between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Unlike their earlier encounter, which was marked by tension, this discussion conveyed a more constructive tone, with both leaders expressing cautious optimism over prospects for resolving the conflict with Russia. Trump reaffirmed U.S. support for Ukraine’s security, though he did not detail the nature of future assistance.
European markets show mixed performance
As of 07:55 GMT, the FTSE 100 added 0.03%, while the British pound was essentially flat, trading at 1.35 against the U.S. dollar. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany’s DAX dipped 0.07%, while France’s CAC 40 gained 0.4%.
BHP posts lower annual profit amid softer commodity prices
BHP Group Ltd (LSE:BHP) reported a 26% decline in underlying annual profit to $10.2 billion for the year ending June 30, 2025, as falling iron ore and coal prices offset record copper and iron ore output. Revenue fell 8% to $51.3 billion. Despite the weaker price environment, the world’s largest listed miner highlighted strong cash flow and resilient profit margins.
IWG posts record system revenue despite slight decline in group sales
International Workplace Group Plc (LSE:IWG) achieved record system-wide revenue of $2.2 billion in H1 2025, up 2% year-on-year. However, group revenue edged down 1% to $1.85 billion due to the loss of a legacy contract. Adjusted EBITDA rose 6% to $262 million, while operating profit remained steady at $68 million and EPS improved to 1.1 cents from 0.9 cents.
Applied Nutrition beats expectations with robust FY25 results
Applied Nutrition PLC (LSE:APN) reported revenue of around £107 million for the year ending July 31, 2025, up 24% from £86 million in FY24. Adjusted EBITDA grew 19% to roughly £31 million, while net cash, excluding IFRS 16 liabilities, stood at £18.5 million, surpassing forecasts. The results underline the company’s ongoing strength in the global sports nutrition and wellness sector.
UK grocery inflation eases slightly to 5.0%
Grocery price inflation in Britain slowed marginally to 5.0% for the four weeks ending August 10, down from 5.2% in July, according to Worldpanel by Numerator. The small decline provides modest relief to consumers facing continued food price pressures.
Assura chair resigns following PHP takeover
Ed Smith, CBE, has stepped down as Non-Executive Chair and director of Assura PLC (LSE:AGR), with immediate effect. Smith joined the board in 2017 and became Chair in 2018, guiding the company’s strategy and governance. His departure follows the unconditional takeover offer by Primary Health Properties PLC (LSE:PHP), declared on August 12, 2025.
Shein may relocate HQ to China for Hong Kong IPO clearance
Fast-fashion retailer Shein Group is reportedly considering moving its headquarters back to China to secure regulatory approval for its planned Hong Kong IPO, Bloomberg News said. The company has shifted its public listing focus several times—from New York to London, and now to Hong Kong—to facilitate its listing ambitions.
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