Author: Fiona Craig

Crude prices were largely unchanged in Asian trading on Tuesday as investors awaited high-stakes U.S.-Russia negotiations that could pave the way for an end to the conflict in Ukraine and potentially ease the strain on major oil-importing nations such as India and China.

Sentiment was also supported by news that Washington and Beijing had agreed to prolong their current trade truce by an additional 90 days, easing fears of a renewed tariff battle. However, traders remained cautious ahead of key U.S. inflation figures expected later in the day, limiting any upside in prices.

By 21:52 ET (01:52 GMT), Brent crude futures for October delivery were up 0.2% at $66.74 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also added 0.2% to trade at $63.21.

Trade truce extension offers a modest lift

Oil markets drew mild support from the latest U.S.-China agreement, which extends the May–June trade ceasefire for another three months and maintains reduced tariff rates between the two economies.

Without the extension, the temporary deal was set to expire Tuesday, opening the door for both countries to reimpose tariffs that earlier this year exceeded 100%. Instead, officials from both sides—along with U.S. President Donald Trump—struck an optimistic tone, suggesting progress toward a more lasting trade settlement.

Still, uncertainty lingers. Tariffs introduced last week by Washington remain in place, raising questions over whether they could dampen global economic momentum and weaken oil demand in the months ahead.

Diplomatic spotlight shifts to U.S.-Russia meeting

Markets are also closely tracking preparations for a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska this Friday, where efforts to broker a resolution to the Ukraine war will top the agenda.

The talks follow fresh threats from Trump of harsher measures against Russia’s oil sector, as well as steep new tariffs aimed at India and China—Moscow’s two biggest energy buyers. He floated tariffs as high as 50% on Indian imports, with China potentially facing similar penalties.

While such measures could disrupt global crude flows if India and China sought alternative suppliers, market concerns have eased slightly ahead of the scheduled talks. Ukraine has already stated it will reject any agreement requiring territorial concessions, but any sign of de-escalation could unlock additional Russian oil exports, boosting worldwide supply.

Inflation data also on the radar

Before the diplomatic drama unfolds, oil traders will be watching Tuesday’s release of U.S. consumer price index data for July. The numbers could offer fresh clues on the outlook for fuel demand in the world’s largest oil-consuming economy.

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.

UBS has raised its lithium price outlook after CATL paused operations at its Jianxiawo lepidolite mine in China, fueling supply concerns amid intensified regulatory scrutiny in the region. The mining suspension took effect following the expiration of CATL’s license on August 9, with the company signaling a closure period of “at least 3 months,” according to a UBS research note published Monday.

This halt is part of China’s broader anti-involution crackdown, which targets issues such as mining license violations and production levels exceeding authorized capacity. Prior to this, UBS estimated that, beyond the already suspended 11,000 tons per year of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) from Zangge Mining, as much as 229,000 tons of lithium supply could be at risk due to non-compliance with licensing requirements.

In light of these developments, UBS increased its price forecasts for spodumene by 16% to 27% and for lithium chemicals—including carbonate and hydroxide—by 5% to 14% over the 2025–2028 period. The bank now believes that “the worst of the lithium price downcycle has passed,” although its projections remain below the broader market consensus.

UBS also revised supply growth expectations for Australian producers following recent quarterly results and delayed Rio Tinto’s (NYSE:RIO) James Bay project from its original timeline of 2025/26.

On the demand front, global electric vehicle sales rose 26% year-over-year in June, with China leading the growth at 31%. Chinese EV manufacturers currently account for roughly 64% of the global market. While sales in North America declined, Europe’s market accelerated by 26% year-over-year in June, and the Asia Pacific region excluding China surged by 55%.

The battery energy storage system (BESS) sector is also expanding rapidly, with the project pipeline increasing by 115% year-over-year and representing approximately 1.6 terawatt-hours (TWh) of capacity planned between 2025 and 2030.

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.

Jubilee Metals Group (LSE:JLP) has announced plans to sell its South African Chrome and Platinum Group Metals (PGM) operations to One Chrome (Pty) Ltd for up to $90 million. This move marks a strategic pivot towards the copper sector, aiming to enhance investor recognition and improve valuation multiples. The proceeds from the sale are expected to exceed the company’s immediate capital requirements, creating opportunities for share buybacks or dividend distributions. This transaction enables Jubilee to reallocate resources to its growing Zambian copper business, which benefits from strong market conditions and growth prospects.

Jubilee’s outlook balances strong growth potential in its copper-focused strategy and operational improvements with financial pressures including narrowing profit margins and rising leverage. While recent corporate developments support the strategy, technical indicators advise caution in the short term.

More about Jubilee Metals Group

Jubilee Metals Group PLC is a diversified metals producer operating mainly in South Africa and Zambia. The company produces chrome, platinum group metals (PGMs), and copper, with a strategic focus on expanding its footprint in the copper market.

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.

Zoo Digital Group PLC (LSE:ZOO) announced its financial results for the year ending March 31, 2025, reporting a 22% revenue increase to $49.6 million and a return to positive adjusted EBITDA. Despite ongoing industry disruptions, the company has restructured its operations to prioritize profitability and cash flow generation in FY26. Zoo Digital has solidified its market position as a Preferred Fulfilment Vendor for Amazon Prime Video and Netflix, while leveraging AI and automation to boost operational efficiency. The company remains optimistic about capitalizing on profitable revenue streams as the streaming industry evolves.

Zoo Digital’s outlook is tempered by notable financial challenges, including profitability pressures and valuation concerns tied to its negative price-to-earnings ratio. Technical analysis indicates some short-term upside potential, although longer-term hurdles persist. Insider buying signals a degree of corporate confidence, highlighting opportunities if financial stability improves.

More about Zoo Digital

Zoo Digital Group PLC operates in the localisation and digital media services sector, primarily serving the global entertainment industry. It provides technology-driven, end-to-end media localisation solutions such as dubbing and subtitling. The company has also developed the Fast Track service, designed for localising live and near-live content efficiently.

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.

Arcontech Group PLC (LSE:ARC) has indicated that its revenue and adjusted EBITDA for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, are expected to meet market forecasts, while Profit Before Tax is projected to outperform expectations, largely driven by interest income from bank deposits. These preliminary figures, pending final audit confirmation, point to a stronger financial performance that could enhance the company’s standing within the financial market data sector.

Arcontech’s outlook is underpinned by consistent revenue growth, robust profitability, and a stable balance sheet. The company’s valuation remains attractive with a low price-to-earnings ratio, though dividend yields appear unusually high. Technical analysis shows a neutral to mildly bullish momentum.

More about Arcontech

Arcontech Group Plc is a prominent independent provider of financial market data infrastructure and visualization solutions. Its offerings include multi-source data aggregation, value-added processing, publishing, distribution, and display services. The company delivers flexible and cost-efficient alternatives to traditional market data systems, supporting off-the-shelf, tailored, or newly developed solutions for cloud, on-premises, or hybrid environments. Arcontech partners with industry leaders such as Bloomberg, Refinitiv, and Symphony, serving global Tier 1 and Tier 2 financial market participants as well as key regulatory bodies.

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.

Thor Explorations Ltd (LSE:THX) has reported record-breaking financial and operational performance for Q2 and H1 2025, posting all-time highs in revenue, EBITDA, and net profit. The results were fueled by elevated gold prices and improved operational efficiencies. In Q2 alone, the company sold 25,900 ounces of gold at an average price of US$3,187 per ounce, generating robust profit margins. Thor is pushing forward with exploration programs at the Segilola Gold Mine and across its assets in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, targeting mine life extensions and resource growth. The company also continues to advance its ESG commitments, strengthening community engagement and promoting sustainable operations.

About Thor Explorations

Thor Explorations Ltd is a gold-focused mining and exploration company, best known for operating the Segilola Gold Mine in Nigeria. In addition to its flagship mine, Thor holds exploration assets in Nigeria, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire, with a strategic priority of expanding its gold resources and advancing new projects.

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.

Xaar plc (LSE:XAR) announced a 7% revenue increase in the first half of 2025, fueled by strong demand in the jewellery wax segment and expanding printhead technology business. Although the Engineered Print Systems division faced challenges related to tariff uncertainties, the company remains optimistic about medium-term growth, particularly in electric vehicle battery coatings and automotive finishes. Strategic investments in R&D and partnerships with industry leaders position Xaar to benefit from the ongoing shift toward sustainable manufacturing practices.

While financial results are impacted by negative profitability and some revenue pressure, technical indicators show a neutral to mildly positive trend. Valuation concerns persist due to losses, but recent leadership changes and the CFO’s share purchases add a layer of confidence for future prospects.

About Xaar plc

Xaar plc is a global leader in inkjet technology, specializing in high-precision printheads for OEM and UDI clients worldwide. Known for enabling the use of high-viscosity inks, Xaar’s innovations improve print quality while reducing environmental impact. The company operates manufacturing and R&D centers across Europe, North America, and China, supported by a strong patent portfolio and continuous investment in technology development.

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.

PageGroup plc (LSE:PAGE) delivered a steady performance during the first half of 2025 amid ongoing macroeconomic challenges, reporting declines of 11.1% in revenue and 12.3% in gross profit. While Continental Europe faced significant market pressures, the company experienced improvements in its Asian and US operations. In response, PageGroup has focused on strategic cost-cutting and reallocating resources to prioritize long-term growth opportunities. The firm continues to invest in technology and AI solutions aimed at boosting productivity and enhancing client experiences, all while maintaining a robust balance sheet and a flexible business model to weather economic uncertainty.

PageGroup’s outlook presents a blend of financial pressures and mixed technical signals. Strong cash flow management and an attractive dividend yield offer positives, but concerns around profitability declines and overvaluation dampen the overall assessment. Technical indicators point to subdued momentum, resulting in a moderate outlook.

About PageGroup

PageGroup plc is a specialist recruitment firm operating globally, providing permanent and temporary staffing solutions across multiple sectors. The company has a broad geographic focus, including EMEA, the Americas, Asia Pacific, and the UK, leveraging technology and innovation to streamline recruitment services.

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.

Derwent London plc (LSE:DLN) has announced strong leasing momentum for the first half of 2025, securing £13.8 million in new leases and renewals. Open-market lettings exceeded estimated rental values by 10.5%, reflecting robust demand in the Central London office sector. The company maintains a low vacancy rate and anticipates significant capital growth, benefiting from a tight supply environment and sustained high demand. Outperforming the MSCI Central London Office index, Derwent London has a positive outlook for total accounting returns, supported by ongoing development projects and strategic asset recycling. Plans include substantial disposals and reinvestments, positioning the company well to capitalize on improving liquidity in the investment market.

Derwent London’s outlook balances steady financial performance with proactive corporate strategies. Strong corporate actions and development initiatives bolster the company’s prospects, despite moderate technical and valuation signals.

About Derwent London plc

Derwent London plc is a REIT specializing in premium office spaces within Central London. Renowned for its strategic asset management and development focus, the company aims to create long-term value through a well-curated portfolio of prime properties.

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.

Cornish Metals Inc. (LSE:CUSN) has been awarded an inaugural ‘A’ ESG rating by Digbee, underscoring its dedication to sustainable and responsible mining practices. The rating recognizes the company’s strong performance in environmental care, community involvement, and governance standards. Key backing from Vision Blue Resources and the UK National Wealth Fund supports these efforts.

The South Crofty tin project exemplifies this commitment, featuring renewable energy use and an advanced water treatment facility, aligning closely with the UK’s Critical Minerals Strategy. This positions Cornish Metals as a leading sustainable mining developer and enhances its competitive standing in the market.

About Cornish Metals

Cornish Metals Inc. is a dual-listed mineral exploration and development firm focused on the South Crofty tin mine in Cornwall, UK. This historic, high-grade underground mine benefits from existing infrastructure and permits, and is set to become Europe or North America’s sole primary tin producer, fitting within the framework of the UK Critical Minerals Strategy.

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.