Author: Fiona Craig

Empyrean Energy PLC (LSE:EME) has finalized an important Gas Sales Agreement through its operator Conrad Asia Energy Ltd for the Mako Gas Field. The contract, inked with PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI)—a subsidiary of Indonesia’s state electricity provider—ensures that all natural gas output from the Mako field will be sold to PLN EPI until January 2037. Covering a total volume of 392 TBtu, the deal links gas pricing to the Indonesian Crude Price, aligning with rising domestic demand for natural gas within Indonesia. This agreement represents a strategic advancement for Empyrean and its partners, securing a consistent revenue stream and reinforcing their footprint in the Asian energy sector.

However, Empyrean Energy’s financial outlook remains challenging. The company continues to face significant losses and negative equity, with technical indicators showing a downward stock trend. Valuation metrics suggest elevated risk, compounded by ongoing negative earnings. Recent corporate moves to raise capital and pursue new strategies have yet to fully offset the substantial financial and operational hurdles, leaving the stock with a modest overall rating.

Company Overview

Empyrean Energy PLC operates as an oil and gas development firm with assets in Australia, Indonesia, and the United States. The company’s portfolio includes natural gas and oil exploration and production, with a notable focus on the Mako Gas Field in Indonesia.

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.

Oil prices climbed in Asian trading on Thursday, breaking a three-day downward trend after data from the U.S. showed a larger-than-expected drop in crude stockpiles, signaling tightening supply. However, investors remained cautious ahead of potential new U.S. tariff announcements.

By 21:35 ET (01:35 GMT), September Brent crude futures had risen 0.6% to $68.94 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures gained 0.8% to $66.92 per barrel.

Earlier this week, oil had declined by as much as 4% over three sessions after U.S. President Donald Trump paused immediate action against Russia, instead granting a 50-day deadline to end the conflict in Ukraine.

US crude inventories fall more than expected – EIA

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) report released Wednesday, crude oil stocks dropped by 3.9 million barrels to 422.2 million barrels for the week ending July 11, 2025. This drawdown exceeded analysts’ forecasts of a 1.8 million-barrel decline, reflecting tightening market conditions.

Refinery utilization remained robust, with roughly 93.9% of available refining capacity in operation. Despite the decline in crude stocks, gasoline inventories increased by 3.4 million barrels, and distillate fuel supplies rose by 4.2 million barrels.

Strong refinery throughput combined with increased imports helped tighten the domestic crude supply balance, supporting prices.

Investors weigh tariff risks amid trade tensions

President Trump announced on Wednesday plans to notify over 150 countries of new tariff rates as part of his ongoing trade policy. He told White House reporters that all affected nations would face the same tariffs, noting most are smaller economies with limited trade volume.

This follows Trump’s recent threat to impose a 30% tariff on imports from the European Union starting August 1, a move European officials deem unacceptable and potentially disruptive to trade between two of the world’s largest markets.

Reports indicate the European Commission is preparing to retaliate with tariffs on $84.1 billion (€72 billion) worth of U.S. goods if trade negotiations with Washington fail.

While some signs of easing in U.S.-China trade tensions emerged, investors remain cautious, concerned that tariff escalations could dampen oil demand and broader economic growth.

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.

Big Yellow Group (LSE:BYG) saw its stock increase by 2.4% on Thursday following the release of its first-quarter update, which showed higher occupancy rates and steady revenue growth.

The UK self-storage company reported a closing occupancy rate of 79.4%, up 0.7 percentage points from 78.7% at the end of March, though still 2.4 points below the June 2024 level.

Net closing rent reached £35.75 per square foot, marking a 5% year-on-year increase, while quarterly revenue grew by 3% compared to the same period last year.

Big Yellow has introduced cost-saving initiatives, including greater automation to reduce staffing levels and expenses without compromising customer service. The firm also benefits from investments in solar energy and energy efficiency, alongside lower property tax rates.

Store operating costs on a like-for-like basis remained unchanged from the previous year’s quarter, though the company expects a 2-3% rise for the full fiscal year. The group is positioned to gain from declining short-term interest rates due to its £223 million floating-rate debt, accounting for 54% of total borrowings.

CEO Jim Gibson commented, “We saw some improvement in demand through the quarter, which has continued into July, with improved yoy occupancy performance. Our customer base remains stable with move-outs lower than last year.”

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.

EasyJet (LSE:EZJ) revealed a rise in third-quarter profits driven by increased passenger traffic and higher revenues, yet its shares dropped 7% amid worries that consensus forecasts may be trimmed.

The British budget airline announced a headline pretax profit (PBT) of £286 million ($383.3 million), marking a £50 million increase compared to the same quarter last year, matching analysts’ forecasts.

This improvement was buoyed by a 2.2% growth in passenger numbers, reaching 25.9 million, along with the advantageous timing of Easter, which boosted April’s results.

Overall revenue climbed 10.9% year-over-year to £2.92 billion, with passenger revenue rising 9.7% to £1.76 billion. The airline’s load factor slightly improved to 90.2%, up from 90% in the prior year.

EasyJet reaffirmed its expectation for steady profit growth in fiscal 2025 but highlighted challenges from increased fuel prices and recent strikes by French air traffic controllers.

Approximately 67% of its fourth-quarter capacity has already been booked, though the full-year outcome will hinge on late summer sales momentum.

The company confirmed its minimum pretax profit target of £235 million for the year and announced plans to reveal a new medium-term target later this year.

Jefferies analysts noted that EasyJet’s Q3 results were largely consistent with their projections, although they pointed out the lack of a definitive consensus benchmark.

They anticipate the stock will face pressure as full-year 2025 (FY25) earnings estimates are revised downward, predicting consensus to fall to around £665 million—“a c.5.5% cut to consensus”—due to the impact of French air traffic control strikes and rising fuel expenses.

The analysts also observed that EasyJet raised its second-half fuel CASK guidance to -7% from -8%, suggesting “some cost control within Q4 as well.”

“We see a re-rating opportunity as easyJet benefits from a growing package holiday business, fleet renewal and self-help opportunities through optimising winter trading and ancillaries,” Jefferies’ team wrote.

Meanwhile, RBC Capital Markets analysts echoed a similar view, highlighting a “~5-7% downside risk to FY25E consensus headline PBT.”

On a more optimistic note, RBC added that easyJet is “well positioned to exceed expectations in FY26E, given continued fuel tailwinds and scope for an increased contribution from easyJet’s own measures to increase profitability.”

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 stock indices moved higher on Thursday morning as investors sifted through a heavy flow of corporate earnings while monitoring developments on the trade front.

As of 07:15 GMT, Germany’s DAX was up 0.7%, France’s CAC 40 rose 1.2%, and the FTSE 100 in the UK gained 0.4%.

The broader mood across European markets remained cautious earlier in the week, after U.S. President Donald Trump signaled plans to impose 30% tariffs on EU imports starting in August. However, his comments on Wednesday suggested that a breakthrough in trade negotiations may be within reach. Trump said a deal with India was nearing completion and indicated that an agreement with Europe was also possible.

These remarks coincided with EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic’s trip to Washington, where talks were scheduled regarding the looming tariffs.

Publicis Raises Outlook; Corporate Results Pour In

Thursday’s session featured a flood of quarterly earnings from major European firms. Notably, Publicis (EU:PUB) raised its full-year organic growth target after posting stronger-than-expected Q2 results, lifting investor sentiment.

Novartis (NYSE:NVS) reported a 24% jump in net income for the second quarter, driven by solid sales of key treatments like Kisqali and Entresto, particularly in the U.S. market.

On the downside, Volvo Car (USOTC:VOLAF) saw its adjusted operating profit drop sharply in Q2, citing continued demand weakness and tariff-related headwinds.

Nordea Bank (TG:04Q) also posted a 6% drop in quarterly net profit, as it faced pressure from low interest rates and persistent market volatility.

Meanwhile, ABB (TG:ABJ) achieved a record in quarterly order intake, supported by rising demand in the U.S. and strong sales of infrastructure products used in AI-related data centers.

Earlier, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM) reported robust Q2 earnings, with net profit rising sharply thanks to surging global demand for AI chips—results that buoyed sentiment in the global tech space.

Attention will also turn to the U.S., where several high-profile earnings are due, including from streaming platform Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX).

Inflation Data and Wages in the Spotlight

Later in the day, markets await the final reading of Eurozone CPI for June. The report is expected to reaffirm inflation at 2.0% year-on-year, ticking up from 1.9% in May.

In the UK, new data showed that average wage growth excluding bonuses hit 5.0% in the three months to May, slightly above expectations. However, the broader labor market showed signs of cooling.

Oil Stabilizes After Steep Decline

Crude oil prices found some footing on Thursday after three days of losses, supported in part by encouraging economic indicators from top global oil consumers.

By 03:15 ET, Brent crude was marginally lower, down 0.1% at $68.44 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was flat at $66.38.

Markets were also buoyed by data from China, the world’s largest oil importer, which showed stronger-than-expected economic growth. Meanwhile, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported a sharper-than-forecast drop in crude inventories, with stockpiles falling by 3.9 million barrels last week to 422.2 million—a sign of robust refinery activity and rising demand.

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.

Gore Street Energy Storage Fund plc (LSE:GSF) announced its audited results for the year ending 31 March 2025, showcasing significant operational growth. The company more than doubled its energised capacity to 921.4 MWh, secured long-term revenue contracts, and implemented AI-driven trading strategies that outperformed industry standards. Despite a slight decline in NAV per share, Gore Street generated $14 million in annual revenue from a California-based project and plans to issue a special dividend. Focused on enhancing shareholder value, the company is conducting strategic reviews and refining capital allocation to strengthen its market position and support the global clean energy transition.

Gore Street benefits from a strong balance sheet and positive corporate developments, including capacity expansion and strategic asset sales. However, challenges persist with revenue stability and profitability, as indicated by a negative P/E ratio. The stock’s positive momentum and attractive dividend yield make it appealing to income-focused investors, though operational improvements remain crucial.

About Gore Street Energy Storage

Gore Street Energy Storage Fund plc is an internationally diversified fund specializing in energy storage solutions. It manages assets across multiple grid networks and regulatory environments, leveraging AI-powered trading models to optimize revenue generation.

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.

KEFI Gold and Copper plc (LSE:KEFI) has made notable strides with its Tulu Kapi Gold Project in Ethiopia, successfully meeting critical milestones to move forward with project initiation and progressing financing efforts. The company targets to begin gold production by 2027, anticipating a first-year net operating cash flow of around $300 million. Meanwhile, in Saudi Arabia, KEFI’s joint venture, Gold and Minerals Limited, has expanded both its mineral resource base and exploration territory, aiming to evolve into a self-sustaining exploration entity. Positioned strategically, KEFI seeks to significantly boost gold output across its projects in both nations.

About KEFI Minerals

KEFI Gold and Copper plc specializes in the exploration and development of gold and copper assets, with core projects in Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia. Its portfolio includes the Tulu Kapi Gold Project and JV projects in Saudi Arabia such as Jibal Qutman and the Hawiah copper and gold project.

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.

Iofina plc (LSE:IOF) has announced a record output of 305.5 metric tonnes of crystalline iodine for the first half of 2025, representing a 10.6% rise compared to the same period last year. The recent startup of their IO#11 plant is expected to further increase production in the latter half of the year, with forecasted volumes between 400 and 440 metric tonnes. The company continues to benefit from robust market demand and favorable iodine pricing, alongside maintaining a strong safety performance.

About Iofina plc

Iofina plc is a fully integrated producer of iodine and specialty chemicals, ranking as the second-largest iodine producer in North America. Operating through its divisions, Iofina Resources and Iofina Chemical, the company leverages advanced technology to optimize its extraction and manufacturing processes.

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.

Wise PLC (LSE:WISE) reported a strong start to the fiscal year with a 24% year-over-year increase in quarterly cross-border volume, reaching £41.2 billion, and a 31% rise in customer holdings to £22.9 billion. The company remains focused on long-term growth, aiming to become the leading network for global money transfers. Recent strategic moves include launching Wise Business in the Philippines and forming partnerships with Raiffeisen Bank and UniCredit to enhance international transfer services in Europe. Additionally, Wise plans to dual list its shares in the US and UK, a move expected to accelerate its mission and align stakeholder interests.

Wise PLC’s strong financial performance, particularly in profitability and cash flow, significantly boosts its stock score. The positive earnings call further supports the score, with substantial growth in customer metrics and strategic initiatives. Despite mixed technical signals and valuation considerations, the company’s robust financial health and promising strategic direction position it favorably.

More about Wise PLC Class A

Wise is a global technology company focused on creating efficient ways to move and manage money worldwide. Through its Wise Account and Wise Business services, it enables individuals and businesses to hold multiple currencies, transfer funds internationally, and spend money abroad. Founded in 2011, Wise has become one of the fastest-growing, profitable tech companies, processing over £145 billion in cross-border transactions in fiscal year 2025.

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.

Central Asia Metals Plc (LSE:CAML) has increased its cash bid to A$0.065 per share in the proposed acquisition of New World Resources Limited (NWR), valuing the target at around A$240 million. This enhanced offer is part of a board-endorsed off-market takeover, which CAML has now declared unconditional. The bid remains open for acceptance until August 18, 2025, unless extended, and follows a rival offer from Kinterra priced slightly higher at A$0.066 per share. The deal aims to bolster CAML’s market standing and broaden its operational reach.

CAML continues to display strong financial health, supported by solid profitability and a robust balance sheet, alongside an attractive valuation. However, some weak technical signals reflect a cautious market outlook. The company’s strategic acquisition approach and operational consistency underpin its positive medium-term prospects.

About Central Asia Metals

Central Asia Metals Plc is a UK-listed producer of base metals with operations spanning Europe and Central Asia. The company owns the Sasa underground zinc-lead mine in North Macedonia and the Kounrad SX-EW copper project in Kazakhstan, while also pursuing exploration projects in Kazakhstan and Scotland. CAML has been publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange since 2010.

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.