Author: Fiona Craig

Rockfire Resources plc (LSE:ROCK) has signed a Farm-in Agreement with Eastern Resources Limited to advance exploration at the Marengo Gold Project in Queensland, Australia. Under the terms of the deal, Eastern will fund drilling and exploration activities targeting high-grade gold, silver, and copper over the next three years. This arrangement allows Rockfire to prioritize development of its flagship Molaoi zinc deposit in Greece.

The agreement gives Rockfire the flexibility to maintain a 20% stake in Marengo or convert its interest into a 1.5% net smelter royalty. Either option could deliver value to shareholders in the event of a significant discovery at the project.

About Rockfire Resources plc

Rockfire Resources is an exploration company focused on gold, base metals, and critical minerals with assets in both Greece and Australia. Its portfolio includes high-grade zinc, lead, silver, and germanium deposits in Greece, alongside multiple gold, copper, and silver prospects in Queensland.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Seascape Energy Asia Plc (LSE:SEA) released its unaudited interim results for the first half of 2025, reporting strong progress on both financial and operational fronts. The company finalized a farm-out deal with INPEX Corporation and secured operatorship of the Temaris Cluster PSC, strengthening its position in Southeast Asia’s upstream energy sector. Cash balances improved during the period, supported by tighter cost discipline that reduced administrative expenses.

Management emphasized a strategy centered on unlocking value from its current portfolio while actively pursuing new growth opportunities in Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asian region. Confidence in its resource base was reinforced by the publication of a Competent Persons Report, which confirmed substantial contingent and prospective reserves, further validating Seascape’s long-term growth outlook.

About Seascape Energy Asia Plc

Seascape Energy Asia is an exploration and production company with a core focus on Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia. Specializing in gas asset development, the company leverages its technical capabilities and strong regional partnerships to build a portfolio of high-quality, gas-weighted projects. Seascape’s strategy is aligned with the rising energy demand across Southeast Asia, a region undergoing rapid economic expansion and increasing consumption needs.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Polarean Imaging plc (LSE:POLX) has signed a new supply agreement with the University of Virginia Health to enable full clinical use of Xenon MRI technology. The collaboration represents a key milestone in the expansion of advanced pulmonary imaging, as UVA Health—recognized as a leader in Xenon MRI research—prepares to conduct its first clinical scan using the technology. The initiative is intended to improve diagnosis and treatment of lung disease, supporting Polarean’s mission to deliver cutting-edge imaging solutions for chronic respiratory conditions.

Despite this strategic progress, Polarean continues to face financial headwinds. Weak operating performance, bearish technical signals, and negative valuation metrics continue to weigh on its outlook. While the UVA agreement is viewed as a positive corporate development, it has not yet offset the broader financial and market challenges the company faces.

About Polarean Imaging

Polarean Imaging is a medical technology company specializing in next-generation pulmonary imaging. The business developed XENOVIEW®, the first FDA-approved hyperpolarized Xenon MRI inhaled contrast agent, and remains focused on advancing MRI-based solutions for assessing lung function. With a strategy centered on both commercialization and ongoing research, Polarean aims to expand the use of its imaging innovations in the management of chronic lung disease.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Silver Bullet Data Services Group plc (LSE:SBDS) reported a 10% rise in revenue for the first half of 2025, overcoming a challenging macroeconomic backdrop. By August, the company had secured £9.0 million in bookings—almost equal to its full-year total for 2024—while also adding high-profile contracts, including deals with Global Fashion and other international brands.

The group credited its progress to continued investment in artificial intelligence innovation and disciplined cost controls, which are expected to support further improvements in EBITDA. Silver Bullet also completed a £3.3 million fundraise and streamlined its capital structure. After the reporting period, the company introduced new generative AI features and rolled out additional AI-driven products, underscoring its commitment to growth in the digital transformation and data intelligence market.

Still, the company’s financial outlook remains pressured by elevated debt levels and persistent losses. Analysts highlight that, while some technical indicators are flashing short-term positives, overall valuation remains weak given negative profitability and the absence of dividend payments. Limited disclosure from earnings calls or corporate events has also reduced visibility into management’s forward strategy.

About Silver Bullet Data Services Group plc

London-based Silver Bullet Data Services specializes in AI-enabled digital transformation, offering privacy-compliant first-party data strategies and marketing automation tools. Its flagship product, 4D AI, helps advertisers reach consumers in a privacy-first environment. The company employs more than 85 data experts across five international regions and works with a range of global blue-chip clients, particularly in the hospitality and brewing sectors.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

EQTEC plc (LSE:EQT) announced its interim results for the first half of 2025, reporting a year-on-year drop in revenue but a notable improvement in gross margins. The gains were largely driven by a greater emphasis on high-value services, even as the company dealt with project delays, restructuring measures, and broader market headwinds.

Despite the challenges, EQTEC pushed forward with several important initiatives in Europe and the United States and secured fresh funding to support its pipeline. Management emphasized that the company’s strong margin profile and scalable business model leave it well positioned to benefit from rising demand in the sustainable fuels market. A key priority moving forward is addressing the shortage of feedstock supply while advancing its modular technologies to serve the growing biofuels sector.

The company’s near-term outlook remains constrained by ongoing financial pressures. Losses and negative cash flows weigh heavily on performance, and its valuation continues to be hindered by a negative price-to-earnings ratio and the absence of shareholder returns. Technical indicators currently suggest a neutral stance in the market. Even so, EQTEC pointed to recent strategic moves as a sign of progress toward stabilizing its finances and expanding its industry footprint.

About EQTEC plc

EQTEC is a clean energy solutions provider best known for its proprietary syngas technology, which converts a wide range of waste materials into renewable energy and advanced biofuels. The company is increasingly focusing on high-margin, IP-driven services while positioning itself to capture opportunities in sustainable aviation fuel and next-generation biofuels.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

European equities mostly climbed on Friday even as U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a fresh round of tariff threats.

The French CAC 40 gained 0.8%, Germany’s DAX added 0.6%, and the U.K.’s FTSE 100 rose 0.5%.

Shares of Brunello Cucinelli (BIT:BC) continued to fall, extending losses from the previous session after a short seller report alleged the company misled investors and regulators about its operations in Russia—a claim the Italian luxury cashmere brand rejected.

Meanwhile, Volvo (BIT:1VOLC) shares surged in Stockholm, while Daimler Truck (TG:DTG) and Traton (BIT:18TRA) fell sharply in Frankfurt following Trump’s proposal of a 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

U.S. stock futures pointed higher Friday, suggesting a rebound after several sessions of declines. Investors appear ready to buy equities at lower levels following recent pullbacks, which reflected concerns over high valuations and the short-term outlook for the artificial intelligence sector.

Futures gained further ground after the Commerce Department reported that consumer prices rose in August in line with expectations.

The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index increased 0.3% in August, following a 0.2% rise in July, matching economist forecasts. On a yearly basis, the PCE index grew 2.7%, up slightly from 2.6% in July and in line with estimates.

Core PCE, which excludes food and energy, also increased by 0.2% for the month, consistent with revised July figures and forecasts. Its annual growth remained steady at 2.9%, again meeting expectations. The report reflects the Federal Reserve’s preferred gauge of inflation, included in the Commerce Department’s broader release on personal income and spending.

Meanwhile, investors largely shrugged off new trade tariffs announced by President Donald Trump. The president revealed on Truth Social that a 100% tariff will apply to imported pharmaceuticals unless the company has U.S.-based production. Additional measures include a 25% tariff on heavy-duty trucks and a 50% levy on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and related products, effective October 1.

U.S. equities pulled back further on Thursday following two sessions of losses, with major indices retreating after Monday’s record closing highs. The Nasdaq dropped 113.16 points, or 0.5%, to 22,384.70, the S&P 500 fell 33.25 points, or 0.5%, to 6,604.72, and the Dow slipped 173.96 points, or 0.4%, to 45,947.32.

Concerns about the AI sector weighed on tech stocks, with Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) tumbling 5.6%, while Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) showed slight strength after steep declines earlier in the week.

Interest rate uncertainty also influenced market sentiment, despite strong U.S. economic data. The Labor Department reported first-time jobless claims fell to 218,000 for the week ending September 20, down 14,000 from the prior week and below the anticipated 235,000. Claims remain off September’s nearly four-year high and are near their lowest level since July.

The Commerce Department additionally revealed robust durable goods orders in August and stronger-than-expected GDP growth for Q2.

Bill Adams, Chief Economist at Comerica Bank, said, “The Fed’s September dot plot indicated that additional rate cuts are likely at their next two decisions in late October and December, but the case for back-to-back cuts is no slam dunk.”

Sector performance was mixed: airline shares dropped sharply, with the NYSE Arca Airline Index falling 2.9% to a one-month low. Pharmaceuticals declined 2.0%, marking a one-month closing low for the NYSE Arca Pharmaceutical Index. Biotechnology, healthcare, and computer hardware also showed weakness, while gold-related stocks held up amid rising bullion prices.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

U.S. stock futures inched upward Friday as investors prepared for the release of a key inflation metric that could influence Federal Reserve policy decisions later this year. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump introduced a fresh set of tariffs, including duties on branded and patented pharmaceuticals. Media outlets also reported that the administration is exploring ways to reduce America’s dependence on imported semiconductors.

Futures edge up

By 03:02 ET, Dow futures were up 73 points, or 0.2%, S&P 500 futures gained 9 points, or 0.1%, and Nasdaq 100 futures added 16 points, or 0.1%. Investors are digesting the latest tariff announcements while awaiting new inflation data.

On Thursday, Wall Street’s main indexes fell amid strong economic data, including lower-than-expected jobless claims and an upward revision to second-quarter GDP. The figures tempered expectations for further Fed rate cuts in 2025, while short-term U.S. Treasury yields climbed—moving inversely to bond prices.

Jabil shares fell despite the company posting better-than-expected revenue and profit forecasts for fiscal 2026. Analysts noted that Jabil’s (NYSE:JBL) results, similar to semiconductor firm Micron (NASDAQ:MU) earlier this week, “were not as strong as many had hoped,” tempering some of the enthusiasm around artificial intelligence.

Eyes on PCE

Attention now turns to the August personal consumption expenditures price index, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, which could guide policymakers on interest rate decisions for the final two meetings of the year. Economists expect core PCE inflation to hold at 0.2% month-on-month and remain at 2.9% year-over-year, the same as in July.

“Upside surprises in the final U.S. GDP numbers and jobless claims make it difficult for markets to agree on upcoming Fed cuts. A benign PCE reading on Friday won’t change that,” analysts at ING said, adding that next week’s jobs report “should be more pivotal.”

Trump unveils new drug tariffs

Shares of European and Asian drugmakers declined after Trump’s tariff announcement, which included a 100% duty on branded and patented pharmaceuticals. In Europe, Novo Nordisk, Roche, Novartis, and AstraZeneca all slipped, while Samsung Biologics, SK Biopharmaceuticals, and Sumitomo Pharma fell in Asia.

Trump’s package, effective October 1, also imposes a 25% levy on imported heavy-duty trucks and tariffs on kitchen cabinets and upholstered furniture. The President said the measures are intended to protect domestic industry and national security.

“…while country-level ’reciprocal’ tariffs are starting to take shape, product-specific tariffs remain a threat,” analysts at Capital Economics noted.

Tech stocks react to semiconductor import news

European and Asian technology stocks fell after a Wall Street Journal report indicated that the U.S. is considering measures to reduce reliance on imported semiconductors by increasing domestic production.

According to the report, a proposed policy would require U.S. tech companies to match their semiconductor imports with domestic output or face tariffs. The plan could pressure foreign tech companies by curbing U.S. demand for overseas chips, squeezing margins, and increasing trade uncertainty.

ASML shares slipped in early European trading, while semiconductor firms ASM International and Infineon declined more than 1%. In Asia, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co remained flat after a 2% dip, Samsung Electronics dropped 3.3%, and SK Hynix fell 5.6%.

Gold steady, oil climbs

Gold prices held steady after retreating from record highs, supported by safe-haven demand amid tariff uncertainty and anticipation of the PCE data. Persistent inflation expectations could reduce the Fed’s incentive to cut rates, keeping bullion well-bid.

Meanwhile, oil prices rose, positioning the commodity for a notable weekly gain, as attacks on Russia’s energy infrastructure and a surprise drop in U.S. crude inventories tightened supply concerns.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

The U.S. dollar dipped slightly Friday, consolidating after the previous day’s sharp advance ahead of the release of the Federal Reserve’s favored inflation indicator.

At 03:00 ET (08:00 GMT), the Dollar Index, which tracks the greenback against six major currencies, slipped 0.1% to 98.090, following a 0.6% jump in the prior session. The index is on track to post a 0.8% gain this week, its largest weekly rise since the week ending August 1.

PCE Data in Focus

The dollar surged Thursday after stronger-than-expected U.S. economic data reinforced the view that the world’s largest economy remains robust despite higher borrowing costs, limiting market bets on aggressive Fed easing in the near term.

The Commerce Department revised second-quarter GDP growth up to an annualized 3.8% from 3.3%, citing resilient consumer spending and a narrower trade deficit. Weekly initial jobless claims also fell for a second consecutive week, dropping to 218,000 from 232,000, well below the one-year moving average of 227,000.

“The dollar hadn’t had such a slew of good data in a while, and positioning squeezes likely helped the move,” said analysts at ING, in a note. “But we think more good news is needed to keep the dollar going, and we see substantial risks of a correction today after a USD rally that looks slightly overdone.”

Investors are now awaiting the Fed’s preferred inflation measure, the personal consumption expenditures price index (PCE), for clearer guidance on the future path of policy.

“We expect 0.2% MoM, in line with expectations. That could be enough to bring the pricing for December Fed easing back into the 40-45bp area (now 39bp),” ING added.

Euro Trades in Narrow Range

In Europe, EUR/USD inched 0.1% higher to 1.1673, trading within a narrow band.

“Our baseline view is for the dollar to give back some gains, and we think a return above 1.170 can happen as early as today,” ING noted.

Traders are also weighing U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of broad new import duties, including 100% on branded pharmaceuticals, 25% on heavy-duty trucks, and 50% on kitchen cabinets.

GBP/USD remained largely unchanged at 1.3348, while USD/CHF was flat at 0.7999 after the Swiss National Bank left its key interest rate at zero on Thursday, as widely anticipated. This was the first hold in seven meetings following the SNB’s rate cuts that began in March 2024.

Asia-Pacific Moves

USD/JPY fell slightly to 149.83 but is on track for a weekly gain exceeding 1%, after Tokyo reported headline CPI rising 2.5% year-on-year in September, unchanged from August. Core CPI, excluding fresh food and energy, eased to 2.5% from 3.0%. The softer underlying inflation supports expectations that the Bank of Japan will proceed cautiously on further rate hikes, favoring gradual policy normalization.

USD/CNY traded mostly flat at 7.1345, while AUD/USD dipped 0.1% to 0.6531, on course for a weekly loss of nearly 1%.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Gold prices showed little movement in Asian trading on Friday, stabilizing after a recent decline from record levels as renewed U.S. tariff measures encouraged traders to favor safe-haven assets.

Investor focus was also drawn to upcoming U.S. inflation data, keeping demand for gold relatively firm. The metal maintained modest weekly gains after hitting a series of record highs, although a stronger U.S. dollar limited further advances. Broader metal markets also experienced restrained gains amid uncertainty over the timing of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

Spot gold was unchanged at $3,749.30 per ounce, while gold futures inched up 0.2% to $3,778.90 per ounce by 01:39 ET (05:39 GMT). Earlier this week, spot prices reached a record high of $3,791.11 per ounce.

Tariff Concerns Support Gold Demand

Gold steadied following President Donald Trump’s announcement of new U.S. trade tariffs, including a 100% levy on all imported pharmaceuticals. The tariffs heightened uncertainty over their economic impact and prompted risk-averse flows into gold.

The metal was poised for roughly a 1.7% gain on the week, marking its sixth consecutive weekly increase. However, rising uncertainty over U.S. interest rates prevented gold from sustaining its record highs. Recent U.S. data showed a stronger-than-expected GDP growth in Q2 and some improvement in weekly jobless claims, adding to speculation about the pace of Fed policy adjustments.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has highlighted elevated economic risks stemming from persistent inflation and a slowing labor market. The U.S. dollar rebounded from multi-year lows this week, tempering gains across metals and commodities.

Markets Await PCE Inflation for Rate Signals

Investors are now eyeing the U.S. PCE price index— the Fed’s preferred inflation measure— for indications on potential interest rate moves. Headline inflation for August is expected to remain elevated, with core PCE figures staying well above the Fed’s 2% annual target.

Sticky inflation may reduce the Fed’s scope to cut rates, particularly amid uncertainty from Trump’s tariffs. On Thursday, Trump reiterated his call for lower U.S. interest rates, urging the Fed to cut rates to 2% and renewing criticism of Powell, who has largely resisted the president’s pressure.

Other Metals Mixed

Spot platinum rose 0.9% to $1,541.85 per ounce, while silver slipped 0.7% to $44.8745 per ounce. Industrial metals saw muted movements: LME copper futures held steady at $10,258.65 per ton, while COMEX copper futures fell 0.2% to $4.7807 per pound.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.