Category: Market News

European markets started the week on a strong footing Monday, buoyed by sharp gains across Asia and ahead of a heavy schedule of corporate earnings.

By 07:10 GMT, Germany’s DAX was up 1%, France’s CAC 40 rose 0.5%, and the U.K.’s FTSE 100 climbed 0.4%. This followed a weak close on Friday, when worries surrounding the U.S. banking sector dragged European indices lower. A late rebound in U.S. regional banks helped ease those concerns going into the new week.

Nikkei Jumps on Political Developments

European sentiment was bolstered by a surge in Japanese stocks overnight. The Nikkei 225 soared more than 3% to surpass 49,000 points, hitting a record high after reports that Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party secured enough parliamentary support to form a coalition government led by Sanae Takaichi.

Takaichi, widely seen as fiscally accommodative, is expected to support increased government spending and resist additional rate hikes from the Bank of Japan. Parliament is set to vote on her premiership on Tuesday, paving the way for Japan’s first female prime minister.

China’s Growth Slows but Beats Forecasts

In China, third-quarter GDP expanded by 4.8% year-on-year, slightly above market forecasts of 4.7% but slower than the 5.2% growth seen in the second quarter, according to official data released Monday. It marked the country’s slowest annual growth since Q3 2024, reflecting ongoing pressure from persistent disinflation and trade frictions with the U.S.

Meanwhile, in Europe, German producer prices slipped 0.1% in September, down 1.7% year-on-year, underscoring limited inflationary pressures in the eurozone’s largest economy.

Luxury Sector in Focus as Kering Sells Beauty Arm

The luxury sector is drawing attention after Kering (EU:KER) announced over the weekend that it would sell its beauty division to L’Oréal (EU:OR) for €4 billion. The deal reflects new CEO Luca de Meo’s strategy to reduce debt and refocus on the group’s fashion brands.

This week starts relatively quietly on the earnings front but will pick up pace in the coming days. L’Oréal reports Tuesday, while SAP (TG:SAP), Barclays (LSE:BARC) and Heineken (TG:HNK1) are scheduled for Wednesday. On Thursday, results from Kering, Roche (TG:RHO), Unilever (LSE:ULVR) and Lloyds Banking Group (LSE:LLOY) will be in focus.

In the U.S., major earnings this week include(NASDAQ:TSLA), Ford (NYSE:F), General Motors (NYSE:GM), Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX), Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG) and Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO), along with aerospace and defence giant RTX (NYSE:RTX) and tech stalwarts IBM (NYSE:IBM) and Intel (NASDAQ:INTC).

Oil Prices Slip as Supply Concerns Mount

Crude oil prices extended their decline Monday amid persistent concerns over weak demand and an expected supply surplus. Brent crude futures fell 0.8% to $60.83 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures dropped 0.8% to $56.72.

Both benchmarks lost more than 2% last week, marking their third consecutive weekly decline, weighed down by the International Energy Agency’s warning of a looming supply glut in 2026.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

LONDON, 20 October 2025 — Investa, the UK’s first zero-commission options trading app (other fees may apply), has announced the early access opening of its second crowdfunding campaign on Crowdcube, beginning Monday, 20 October.

The fintech startup is aiming to raise at least £1 million in this new round, building on the success of its 2024 Crowdcube campaign, which was overfunded by 220% and attracted nearly 500 investors. That raise became the most participated-in UK fintech campaign on the European equity crowdfunding platform last year, reaching its target within four hours and closing six days ahead of schedule.

Investa plans to use the funds from this latest campaign to accelerate its growth and product development, including launching its Android app, scaling customer acquisition, expanding trading infrastructure, and strengthening operations following the successful rollout of its iOS platform. The company also intends to continue enhancing accessibility and transparency in options trading for retail investors across the UK.

Early access registrants will have the opportunity to express investment interest ahead of the Private Live round, which takes place on 27–28 October. The campaign will then open to the public on 29 October.

Since completing its first fundraising round, Investa has launched its iOS app—achieving over 1,000 downloads on day one—and facilitated more than 2,000 stock and options trades. The platform now offers access to over 100,000 tradable options contracts and recently introduced Open Banking integration to simplify funding accounts. Investa was also named a finalist in the Wealth category at the 2025 FF Awards.

“The support we received from the Crowdcube community last year was phenomenal,” said Alec Beasley, Co-Founder and CEO of Investa. “It validated our mission to make options trading accessible to UK retail investors and showed that everyday traders want the same opportunities long enjoyed by professionals. With this next crowdfunding campaign, we’re building on that momentum to deliver the UK’s best options trading experience.”

Matt Cooper, Co-CEO of Crowdcube, added: “Investa’s 2024 fundraise was really well supported. The team’s mission to democratise options trading in the UK clearly resonated with investors. It’s exciting to back companies that are expanding financial inclusion and opening new pathways for retail participation.”

More information on the fundraise can be found on Investa’s Crowdcube page.

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.

Kering (EU:KER) saw its stock rise about 5% on Monday after announcing the sale of its beauty division to L’Oréal (EU:OR) for €4 billion. The move marks a strategic shift under new CEO Luca de Meo, aiming to streamline operations and strengthen the company’s financial position.

The agreement includes the sale of luxury fragrance house Creed—acquired by Kering in 2023—and grants L’Oréal exclusive rights for 50 years to produce and market fragrance and beauty products for Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga once existing licensing deals, including Gucci’s partnership with Coty Inc. (expiring in 2028), conclude.

This deal effectively unwinds one of the most ambitious diversification strategies launched by former CEO François-Henri Pinault, who established Kering Beauté to push the group further into the lucrative beauty sector traditionally dominated by licensing partnerships.

The divestment comes at a critical time for Kering. At the end of June, the group’s net debt stood at €9.5 billion, alongside €6 billion in lease liabilities. Slower growth at Gucci—which accounts for more than half of group profits—particularly in China, has heightened investor concern around leverage.

The integration of Creed and the launch of in-house perfume lines, such as Bottega Veneta fragrances, failed to deliver the expected boost, with the division still loss-making in the first half of 2025. By selling the business rather than expanding it, de Meo is clearly signaling a shift back to a leaner model centered on fashion, operational efficiency, and cash flow.

For L’Oréal, this transaction is equally transformative. It gives the cosmetics group direct control of Creed and, in time, Gucci fragrances—one of the most valuable names in the global beauty industry. This will be L’Oréal’s largest-ever acquisition, surpassing its $2.5 billion purchase of Aesop in 2023, and reinforces its expansion into luxury fragrances. The two companies will also create a joint venture focused on wellness and longevity, extending their strategic relationship beyond licensing.

Market analysts welcomed the deal. UBS said the €4 billion valuation would be “a small positive for Kering,” helping address balance sheet concerns that have weighed on the stock this year. Deleveraging has become a key investor focus, particularly after delays in the Valentino transaction, and the sale could offset any impairment linked to the Creed acquisition.

Bernstein described the move as “bitter but necessary medicine,” suggesting that stepping away from in-house beauty will allow de Meo to concentrate fully on turning around Gucci. Analysts noted that Creed remains one of the most attractive assets in luxury fragrance and that the sale price appeared strong, but shareholder priorities have shifted firmly toward repairing the balance sheet.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. called the deal “the first material act” of de Meo’s tenure and “a sharp change in strategy,” hinting at the possibility of further divestitures of lower-margin assets. While streamlining operations could be welcomed by investors, the bank warned that relinquishing long-term control of beauty may limit upside potential if Gucci fragrances outperform over time.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

The FTSE 100 opened in positive territory on Monday, rising 0.4% by 07:20 GMT, supported by broad market gains across Europe. The pound edged slightly lower against the dollar but remained above $1.34, down 0.08%. European markets also advanced, with Germany’s DAX gaining 1.1% and France’s CAC 40 up 0.6%.

B&M Shares Sink After Guidance Cut and CFO Exit

Shares of B&M European Value Retail S.A. (LSE:BME) plunged more than 18% after the company cut its FY26 financial outlook due to a £7 million error in overseas freight cost recognition.

B&M now expects Group Adjusted EBITDA (pre-IFRS 16) between £470 million and £520 million for FY26, down from the previous range of £510 million to £560 million announced earlier this month. First-half FY26 EBITDA guidance has also been lowered to approximately £191 million from £198 million.

In a management shake-up, CFO Mike Schmidt announced his intention to step down, with a formal search underway for his successor. Schmidt will remain in his role until a smooth transition is completed.

Plus500 Beats Forecasts with Strong Q3

Plus500 (LSE:PLUS) posted stronger-than-expected Q3 2025 results, driven by robust growth in its U.S. futures business and consistent over-the-counter trading activity.

Revenue came in at $182.7 million, around 10% above consensus estimates of $165 million. Trading income accounted for $161.6 million, while interest income rose sharply to $21.1 million, up from $15 million in each of the previous two quarters. EBITDA reached $82.7 million, delivering a 45% margin — about 5% above implied market expectations, according to Jefferies.

GlobalData Reaffirms FY25 Revenue Outlook

GlobalData Plc (LSE:DATA) reaffirmed that its FY25 revenue is expected to be in line with market forecasts. The company reported 13.5% revenue growth in Q3, supported by an improvement in underlying subscription revenue growth from 1% in the first half to 2% in the third quarter, along with contributions from recent acquisitions.

Enhertu Delivers Positive Results in Breast Cancer Trials

AstraZeneca PLC (LSE:AZN) and Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd. (TG:D4S) announced that their cancer therapy Enhertu produced strong outcomes in two pivotal trials for early-stage breast cancer.

The data showed significant efficacy in treating a specific form of early-stage breast cancer, supporting the ongoing development and clinical testing of the drug by both companies.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

Arc Minerals (LSE:ARCM) has announced the termination of its joint venture with Anglo American concerning its Zambian mining tenements. The decision follows a lack of drilling activity throughout 2025, with Anglo American withdrawing and relinquishing its interests.

As a result, Arc Minerals will regain full control of Handa Resources Limited and intends to explore new strategic options for the assets, including the potential engagement of a new joint venture partner. The company has stated that it remains financially stable, with no immediate requirement for an equity raise, and is focused on resolving outstanding legal matters in Zambia.

About Arc Minerals

Arc Minerals is an exploration company focused on advancing Tier 1 copper projects, with core operations in Zambia. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, the company holds a portfolio of highly prospective copper tenements across Africa.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

Avacta Group plc (LSE:AVCT) has raised approximately £16 million through an oversubscribed equity placement, providing the company with additional working capital to support its research and development activities through the second half of 2026. The capital will fund the ongoing Phase 1b trial of faridoxorubicin and the launch of the FAP-EXd Phase Ia trial, while allowing Avacta to retain full ownership of its programs built on its proprietary pre|CISION® technology platform.

This funding round also enables the deferment of certain convertible bond repayments, effectively extending the company’s cash runway and supporting further development of its intellectual property portfolio.

Although Avacta faces financial pressures linked to weak earnings, technical indicators offer some near-term optimism. Valuation remains challenging, but the strategic progress highlighted in recent communications demonstrates continued advancement in its oncology pipeline.

About Avacta Group plc

Avacta Group is a clinical-stage life sciences company pioneering pre|CISION®, a proprietary drug delivery platform designed to improve oncology treatments by reducing toxicity and targeting drug release directly within tumors. Its technology uses peptide drug conjugates (PDCs) to enhance drug efficacy and patient tolerability.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

B&M European Value Retail S.A. (LSE:BME) has revised its financial outlook for FY26 after identifying an error in accounting for £7 million of overseas freight costs. As a result, the company now expects Group Adjusted EBITDA in the range of £470 million to £520 million, down from the previously guided £510 million to £560 million.

In addition, CFO Mike Schmidt has announced his decision to step down, with a search underway for his successor. The company will also launch an independent third-party review to strengthen its financial oversight processes following the accounting issue.

Despite this setback, B&M’s investment case remains supported by favorable valuation metrics, including a low P/E ratio and a high dividend yield, indicating potential undervaluation. Financial performance continues to show strong cash generation, though high leverage and slowing free cash flow growth pose ongoing risks. Technical indicators point to a bearish trend, but with room for a possible rebound.

About B&M European Value Retail S.A.

B&M is a leading variety retailer operating 786 stores in the UK under the “B&M” brand, 344 stores under the “Heron Foods” and “B&M Express” brands, and 140 stores in France under the “B&M” banner. Established in 1978, the company has been listed on the London Stock Exchange since June 2014.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

Plus500 (LSE:PLUS) has reported major strategic achievements in the third quarter of 2025, including surpassing $1 billion in segregated funds within its U.S. futures business. This milestone, coupled with the company’s new clearing membership at ICE Clear Europe, strengthens its global market infrastructure capabilities.

The company has further extended its regulatory reach by obtaining a new operating licence in Canada and receiving authorization in Colombia, marking its debut in the Latin American market. Financially, Plus500 recorded a modest increase in both revenue and EBITDA during the first nine months of 2025. A strong balance sheet and disciplined capital allocation strategy continue to underpin its growth trajectory.

Supported by solid profitability and a favorable valuation, including a reasonable P/E ratio and attractive dividend yield, the company’s outlook remains positive. Technical indicators reflect neutral sentiment, suggesting stable trading conditions.

About Plus500

Plus500 is a global multi-asset fintech company operating proprietary technology-driven trading platforms. It provides a broad range of financial products and services, focusing on attracting and retaining high-value customers. With a strong market infrastructure and growing international presence, Plus500 plays a prominent role in the global financial markets.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

Tertiary Minerals plc (LSE:TYM) has secured £100,000 through a share placing with major shareholder Stuart Packwood. The funds will be directed toward advancing exploration at the Target A1 silver-copper-zinc prospect within the Mushima North Project in Zambia.

The capital injection will enable the company to accelerate drilling activities, expand the mineralisation footprint, and progress toward establishing a maiden mineral resource estimate. This development signals continued investor support and aligns with Tertiary’s strategic objective of advancing projects in the energy transition metals sector.

While the company faces ongoing financial pressures from losses and negative cash flow, its solid equity base and exploration upside in Zambia and Nevada offer growth potential. Technical indicators currently show neutral momentum, though valuation concerns remain due to negative earnings.

About Tertiary Minerals plc

Tertiary Minerals is an AIM-quoted exploration and development company focused on energy transition metals. Operating in stable, mining-friendly jurisdictions, its key projects are located in Zambia and Nevada, with a primary focus on discovering and developing copper and precious metal resources.

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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.

First Development Resources plc (LSE:FDR) has provided an update on its gold exploration strategy at the Selta Project in Australia’s Northern Territory. The company has identified multiple high-potential gold targets linked to the Stafford Gold Trend and plans to carry out geophysical surveys to further refine these targets ahead of a planned drilling program.

This targeted exploration approach is designed to maximize operational efficiency and unlock value by focusing on the most promising mineral zones. It also strengthens the company’s strategic positioning in the gold exploration sector and creates potential opportunities for stakeholders.

About First Development Resources plc

First Development Resources is a UK-based exploration company focused on mineral assets in Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Its exploration portfolio includes gold, antimony, copper, rare-earth elements, lithium, uranium, tin, and other metals, with a primary focus on advancing the Selta 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.
Some portions of this content may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) tools and been reviewed for accuracy and quality by our editorial team.