Category: Market News

European equity markets surged on Monday after the United States and the European Union finalized a trade agreement, easing concerns over a potential tariff war between the two major economic blocs and offering businesses greater certainty moving forward.

By 03:05 ET (07:05 GMT), Germany’s DAX index had advanced 0.8%, France’s CAC 40 jumped 1.2%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 gained 0.5%.

Details of the EU-U.S. trade accord

Over the weekend, U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a framework trade deal with the European Union, which sets a 15% import tariff on most EU products. In return, the EU pledged investments totaling approximately $600 billion in the U.S. economy.

While the agreed 15% tariff rate exceeded Europe’s initial aim of zero tariffs on both sides, it was broadly welcomed as a better alternative to the previously threatened 30% tariff.

This agreement offers companies much-needed clarity and helps prevent a significant breakdown in trade relations between two blocs that represent nearly a third of global commerce.

The 15% tariff level aligns with a similar deal reached last week between the U.S. and Japan, reflecting the rapid pace at which nations are moving to secure trade agreements with the U.S. before the August 1 deadline for new tariffs on goods from various countries.

Meanwhile, U.S.-China trade talks are scheduled to resume Monday in Stockholm as both economic superpowers attempt to resolve ongoing disputes.

At the same time, oil futures also gained momentum. Brent crude increased by 0.8% to $68.18 per barrel, and West Texas Intermediate rose 0.8% to $65.71 per barrel. The prospect of additional trade deals involving the U.S. has supported energy markets ahead of the looming tariff deadlines.

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.

Valterra Platinum (LSE:VALT) reported a sharp 81% drop in profit for the first half of the year, citing reduced production and financial impacts from its recent spin-off from Anglo American Platinum (LSE:AAL).

The South African producer of platinum group metals recorded headline earnings of 1.2 billion rand ($67.62 million) for the six months ending June 30, significantly down from 6.5 billion rand during the same period in 2023.

PGM sales volumes declined by 25% year-on-year, with the company selling 1.48 million ounces in the first half. The drop in output was largely the result of flooding at its Amandelbult site, which was affected by intense rainfall in February.

In line with the earnings slump, Valterra declared an interim dividend of 2 rand per share—a 79% decrease compared to last year’s mid-year distribution.

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.

OptiBiotix Health plc (LSE:OPTI) reported significant financial growth in the first half of 2025, with gross revenue increasing by 102% and gross profit rising 173% compared to the same period in 2024. The company expanded its customer base notably in Asia and the USA, and expects continued sales momentum driven by new product launches and strategic partnerships.

Cost reductions and improved margins are anticipated to further boost profitability, positioning OptiBiotix for substantial growth in shareholder value.

More about OptiBiotix Health

Founded in March 2012, OptiBiotix Health plc operates in the life sciences sector, specializing in developing compounds that modify the human microbiome to prevent and manage conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. The company collaborates with international food and healthcare supplement firms to integrate its microbiome modulators into a variety of food products and beverages, while also developing its own consumer supplements and health products.

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.

Oxford BioMedica PLC (LSE:OXB) has reported a strong start to fiscal year 2025, with first-half revenues reaching £70-73 million. This represents a 38% to 44% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The company secured £149 million in new orders during H1 2025, more than doubling the previous year’s figures, and has reaffirmed its full-year revenue guidance of £160-170 million.

The company’s multi-vector, multi-site strategy is advancing well, supported by increased demand for its services and a robust order book that provides confidence in future growth. Oxford BioMedica is expanding its manufacturing and development capacity, particularly in late-stage lentiviral programs, and is enhancing its global operations to support clients across different geographies and development stages.

While the company’s strong corporate events and positive technical indicators underpin a favorable outlook, concerns remain regarding financial performance and valuation. Financial stability continues to be a key risk despite Oxford BioMedica’s strategic initiatives and market position.

More about Oxford BioMedica

Oxford BioMedica (LSE:OXB) is a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in cell and gene therapy. With 30 years of experience in viral vectors, the company collaborates with leading pharmaceutical and biotech firms to provide expertise in lentivirus, adeno-associated virus (AAV), adenovirus, and other viral vector types. Oxford BioMedica offers services spanning early-stage development through commercialization, supported by strong quality assurance and regulatory capabilities. The company is headquartered in Oxford, UK, with facilities in the UK, France, and the US.

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.

STV Group plc (LSE:STVG) has announced that its full-year revenue and adjusted operating profit for 2025 are expected to fall well below market consensus. This is due to a downturn in commissioning and advertising markets, which continue to present headwinds for the business.

In response, the company is implementing cost-saving initiatives and anticipates realizing further savings in 2026. The Audience division’s revenue and operating margin are projected to decline, reflecting persistent weakness in the advertising sector. STV Studios has experienced delays in commissioning, particularly affecting its unscripted projects, a consequence of the UK’s economic environment. However, its scripted content remains stable.

Despite these challenges, STV is advancing with strategic initiatives, including the launch of a new radio station and the consolidation of its Broadcast and Digital businesses.

STV Group’s outlook combines a history of robust financial performance with recent revenue pressures. While profitability remains under strain, balance sheet concerns persist due to negative equity and high leverage. The stock’s undervaluation and attractive dividend yield present an appealing proposition for income-focused investors. Nonetheless, mixed technical signals advise caution over the short term. Recent strategic moves and partnerships underpin the company’s potential for long-term growth.

More about STV Group plc

STV Group plc operates within the media industry, specializing in television broadcasting and production. The company provides services including advertising, content creation, and digital broadcasting, primarily targeting the UK market. Its division, STV Studios, produces both scripted and unscripted content, collaborating with major platforms such as Netflix, Apple, Sky, and the BBC.

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.

Computacenter (LSE:CCC) posted strong revenue gains in the first half of 2025, driven mainly by its Technology Sourcing division, with particularly solid results in North America and the UK markets. However, the business encountered difficulties in Germany and France, where political shifts have disrupted public sector projects.

Although net interest income declined following a share buyback, the company’s balance sheet remains healthy. With a substantial product order backlog, Computacenter is well-positioned to navigate the remainder of the year. While geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic challenges persist, there is optimism for a partial rebound in Germany’s public sector activity, though conditions in France continue to pose challenges.

Computacenter’s financial strength and recent corporate developments contribute positively to its stock rating, reflecting strong revenue momentum and a favorable outlook. Nonetheless, bearish technical signals weigh on the overall assessment. The company’s valuation is reasonable, offering moderate income potential.

About Computacenter

Computacenter is a leading independent provider of technology and IT services, supporting major corporate and public sector clients. The company specializes in sourcing, transforming, and managing technology infrastructure to enable digital transformation. Listed on the London FTSE 250, Computacenter employs over 20,000 people globally.

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.

Ceres Power Holdings (LSE:CWR) and Doosan Fuel Cell (USOTC:DOOSF) have officially started mass production of fuel cell power systems featuring Ceres’ solid oxide technology at Doosan’s manufacturing site in South Korea. This launch marks a key milestone, as Doosan becomes the first strategic partner to scale production, focusing on markets such as AI/data centers and commercial power applications.

The partnership aims to address the growing energy demands driven by AI advancements while supporting the global shift toward a low-carbon future. Initial sales will concentrate on South Korea, targeting use cases including stationary distributed power, data centers, renewable energy grids, and maritime shipping.

Ceres Power’s robust revenue growth and strong strategic alliances are promising, though ongoing profitability challenges and valuation concerns temper the outlook. Technical indicators are showing bullish momentum, complemented by positive corporate developments and encouraging earnings call feedback, resulting in a moderately optimistic forecast.

About Ceres Power Holdings

Ceres Power Holdings plc is a frontrunner in clean energy innovation, specializing in fuel cells for power generation and electrolysers for green hydrogen production. Operating with an asset-light licensing model, the company collaborates with major global partners. Ceres’ solid oxide technology plays a crucial role in advancing energy electrification and enabling efficient green hydrogen production, aiding decarbonization efforts in industries like steelmaking and ammonia manufacturing. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Ceres is recognized as a significant contributor to the transition toward a sustainable green 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.

Kooth plc (LSE:KOO) has released its half-year trading update, highlighting operational progress and key leadership changes aimed at supporting its growth ambitions. Now in the third year of its major contract with the State of California, the company’s Soluna platform has experienced significant expansion, attracting over 128,000 young users.

Despite uncertainties around potential federal healthcare funding cuts, Kooth’s focus on youth mental health remains well-aligned with California’s priorities, helping to sustain demand. In the UK, the company maintains a stable position amid fiscal challenges and is preparing to roll out Soluna to broaden its service offerings.

To support its strategic goals and international expansion, Kooth has bolstered its leadership team, positioning the business for sustainable long-term growth.

About Kooth plc

Kooth plc is a leading digital mental health service provider, delivering accessible and secure platforms for mental wellbeing. The company focuses on early intervention and prevention through a range of therapeutic supports and interventions. Accredited by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, Kooth is the UK’s largest provider of mental health support for under-18s. The company is actively expanding internationally, with a strong focus on the growing youth mental health market in the US.

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.

Cranswick plc (LSE:CWK) reported a strong start to its financial year, with first-quarter revenue rising 9.7% year-on-year. This growth was fueled by new business wins and robust demand for the company’s premium product range. The recent acquisition of Blakemans also added to the positive momentum, while export revenues received a boost following the reinstatement of the China export license for its Norfolk pork facility.

The company is stepping up capital expenditure to improve capacity and operational efficiency, with significant investments planned for its Lincoln Pet Products site. Additionally, Cranswick has refinanced its banking arrangements, securing a £360 million revolving credit facility designed to support its ongoing growth ambitions.

Cranswick’s strong financial results, underpinned by healthy revenue and profitability gains, contribute to a favorable stock outlook. Recent corporate developments, including insider buying and strategic initiatives, further bolster confidence in the company’s future trajectory. However, technical analysis suggests a neutral outlook in the near term, and valuation metrics remain fair, reflecting the company’s growth prospects.

About Cranswick

Cranswick is a leading UK food manufacturer known for its premium fresh and added-value products. Operating 23 sites across the country, the company produces a diverse portfolio including fresh pork, poultry, gourmet foods, and pet products. Cranswick supplies major supermarket chains and holds a strong position in both the food-to-go sector and export 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.

Science Group plc (LSE:SAG) reported strong interim financial results for the first half of 2025, with profit before tax rising significantly to £32.2 million. This increase was largely driven by a successful investment in Ricardo plc, which contributed a pre-tax return of £24.0 million.

Despite facing headwinds in its Professional Services Division, the Group’s adjusted operating profit improved, buoyed by solid performances within its Systems businesses. Additionally, Science Group strengthened its liquidity position, ending June 2025 with a robust cash balance of £82.0 million, providing a strong foundation for future growth initiatives.

Looking ahead, the company’s outlook is supported by solid financials and positive corporate developments. However, technical indicators such as an overbought Relative Strength Index (RSI) highlight some short-term risks. Valuation appears fair, though investors should keep a close watch on the performance of Ricardo, given its material impact on the Group’s results.

About Science Group plc

Science Group plc is a global Professional Services and Systems provider focused on driving innovation through science, technology, and engineering. The company reinvests capital generated from operations into strategic corporate opportunities, aiming to create attractive shareholder value through disciplined capital deployment and leveraging its specialized expertise.

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.