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TotalEnergies SE (EU:TTE) saw its shares rise 2.7% on Wednesday after the French energy group announced higher-than-expected oil and gas production for the third quarter, along with a sharp improvement in refining margins.

The company now expects quarterly production to reach 2.5 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, up 4% year-on-year and ahead of its earlier forecast of more than 3% growth. This increase comes despite planned maintenance at the Ichthys LNG plant in Western Australia, which temporarily reduced output in the integrated LNG division by around 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day.

Refining margins provided a major boost, surging to $63 per metric ton compared to $15.4 per ton a year earlier. This jump is projected to add between $400 million and $600 million to downstream earnings, broadly in line with analyst estimates.

The upbeat production figures were tempered by weaker crude prices, with Brent averaging $69.1 a barrel during the quarter versus $80.3 in the same period last year. While the Ichthys maintenance is expected to weigh on integrated LNG earnings, the company has not disclosed the exact financial impact.

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European markets opened higher on Wednesday, recovering some of the steep losses from earlier in the week that were triggered by renewed tensions between the U.S. and China. French political developments are also drawing close investor attention.

By 07:10 GMT, Germany’s DAX index was up 0.2%, France’s CAC 40 jumped 2.3%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 edged 0.1% higher. This uptick follows Tuesday’s slide, when major European indices hit two-week lows amid escalating trade friction between Washington and Beijing. The decline came after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened new tariff hikes in response to China’s decision to impose export controls on rare earth minerals.

Trump further ramped up rhetoric on Tuesday, warning that Washington could cut trade ties with China in the cooking oil sector, calling Beijing’s reduction in soybean imports an “economically hostile act.”

French Market in Focus

European sentiment was lifted by remarks from Jerome Powell, who said the U.S. economy remained on solid ground, though he also noted a “notably softer labor market.” Markets interpreted this as a sign the Federal Reserve may be open to another rate cut later this year.

In Europe, attention turned to France after Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu — reappointed Friday after briefly stepping down last week — pledged on Tuesday to delay a controversial pension reform plan until after the 2027 presidential election.

“French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu offered to shelve a landmark pension reform until after the 2027 presidential election, caving to pressure from leftist lawmakers in a bid to shore up his fragile political standing.”

This move comes as France faces its most intense political turmoil in decades, with successive minority governments struggling to pass deficit-reduction budgets through a deeply divided parliament. Inflation data also came in as expected, with consumer prices up 1.1% year-on-year in September, according to INSEE.

Corporate Updates: ASML, Entain, PageGroup

In corporate news, ASML Holding (EU:ASML) warned of a “significant” drop in sales to China in 2026 compared with 2024 and 2025 levels, even as the chip equipment maker reported stronger-than-expected bookings for the quarter.

Entain plc (LSE:ENT) posted a 6% increase in net gaming revenue for Q3, supported by solid growth in its online business. Meanwhile, PageGroup (LSE:PAGE) reported a quarterly profit decline, as strength in the U.S. and parts of Asia failed to offset weaker conditions in Europe.

Oil Prices Extend Losses

Crude prices continued to slip, extending Tuesday’s losses after International Energy Agency warned of a looming supply surplus in 2026.

Brent futures were down 0.3% at $62.20 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures fell 0.2% to $58.57 per barrel. Both benchmarks ended the previous session at five-month lows. The IEA noted on Tuesday that the global oil market could face a surplus of up to 4 million barrels per day next year — a bigger glut than previously forecast.

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.

Audioboom (LSE:BOOM) has delivered record results for the third quarter of 2025, reporting substantial growth in adjusted EBITDA, revenue, and gross profit. A key driver of this performance was the acquisition of Adelicious, which strengthened Audioboom’s position in the UK podcasting market and contributed to a 40% surge in average monthly downloads and video views.

The company is also advancing its leadership in video podcasting, with multiple shows ranking among the top performers on major streaming platforms. Alongside its strong operational momentum, Audioboom has initiated a strategic review to evaluate future opportunities — including a potential sale — as it continues expanding its network and attracting growing advertiser interest.

Although technical performance indicators remain strong, the company still faces challenges around cash flow generation and operational efficiency. The stock’s valuation appears elevated, which may constrain near-term upside despite the positive outlook.

About Audioboom:

Audioboom is a global podcast company offering an advanced ad-tech and monetisation platform to support scalable content distribution. It provides commercial, distribution, marketing, and production services for a premium network of podcasts and partners with major platforms such as Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify. The company operates across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

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.

Tern plc (LSE:TERN) has raised approximately £151,136 through its Open Offer, which closed on 14 October 2025. The fundraising involved the issuance of 30,227,239 new Ordinary Shares and comes after shareholders rejected a proposal at the AGM to issue new shares without pre-emption rights.

In parallel, the company has introduced significant cost-saving measures, including a 50% pay cut for directors and executive managers, to extend its cash runway into the first quarter of 2026. Tern is also exploring alternative financing options to meet its funding needs, though these may involve more expensive or dilutive structures.

The company’s financial outlook remains weak, with ongoing revenue declines, negative profitability, and bearish technical indicators. A negative P/E ratio and lack of dividend yield further weigh on sentiment.

About Tern plc:

Tern focuses on building value from investments in Internet of Things (IoT) technology businesses.

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.

Entain plc (LSE:ENT) has reported a robust third quarter of 2025, with total group net gaming revenue up 6%, driven by a standout 23% increase in net revenue from its US joint venture, BetMGM.

Buoyed by this strong performance, Entain has raised its full-year 2025 guidance, projecting net revenue of at least $2.75 billion and EBITDA of around $200 million. The company also plans to distribute a minimum of $200 million to its parent companies, signaling confidence in its cash generation capacity.

While Entain’s outlook is supported by strong revenue growth and solid cash flow management, high leverage and profitability challenges remain key considerations. Technical indicators point to bearish momentum, and valuation metrics reflect negative earnings, tempering the otherwise positive growth narrative.

About Entain plc:

Entain is a leading global sports betting and gaming group with a diverse portfolio spanning online and retail channels. Its growth strategy includes expanding its international footprint and enhancing its offerings through BetMGM, a major joint venture in the US 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.
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.

Thor Explorations Ltd (LSE:THX) delivered a solid operational performance in the third quarter of 2025, supported by strong output from its flagship Segilola Gold mine in Nigeria. The company poured 22,617 ounces of gold during the quarter, generating significant revenue from gold sales and reinforcing its operational momentum.

Thor reaffirmed its full-year production guidance and highlighted continued progress across its exploration portfolio. Key developments include advancing the Douta Project in Senegal and exploration programs in Côte d’Ivoire. Additionally, the company announced a dividend payment, underscoring its focus on delivering shareholder value.

About Thor Explorations:

Thor Explorations is a gold-focused mining company with operations in Nigeria, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire. Its flagship asset is the Segilola Gold mine in Nigeria, complemented by an active pipeline of exploration projects aimed at supporting long-term growth and value creation.

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.

Sanderson Design Group PLC (LSE:SDG) has reported its interim financial results for the six months ended July 31, 2025, with revenue down 4% year-on-year to £48.3 million. The decline was primarily driven by softer consumer markets in the UK and Europe, though this was partly offset by growth in North America and stronger licensing income.

To support profitability, the company has implemented strategic cost-saving initiatives expected to deliver annualized savings of around £2.5 million. It remains on track to meet full-year expectations, supported by the launch of new collections, investment in digital platforms, and continued expansion in the North American market.

While Sanderson faces ongoing profitability and cash flow challenges, its solid balance sheet provides some resilience. Technical indicators point to bearish momentum, though a potential rebound remains possible. Valuation pressure from negative earnings continues to weigh on sentiment, highlighting the importance of swift operational improvements.

About Sanderson Design Group PLC:

Sanderson Design Group is a luxury interior furnishings company specializing in wallpapers, fabrics, and paints. It also licenses its designs across a wide range of products, including home décor and tableware. Its well-known brands include Zoffany, Sanderson, Morris & Co., Harlequin, Clarke & Clarke, and Scion. With strong UK manufacturing capabilities and showrooms in London, New York, and Chicago, the company trades on AIM under the ticker SDG.

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.

Capita plc (LSE:CPI) has reached a £14 million settlement with Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in connection with a cyber attack that took place in March 2023. The incident exposed vulnerabilities in the company’s systems, prompting significant investment in cybersecurity upgrades under new leadership.

Despite the financial impact of the settlement, Capita has reaffirmed its existing financial guidance and remains focused on achieving positive cash flow by the end of 2025. The company continues to advance its broader transformation strategy aimed at operational efficiency and improved service delivery.

While Capita shows some equity strength, it continues to face notable financial pressures, particularly in cash flow and revenue. Technical indicators present a mixed picture, and the stock’s valuation remains moderate.

About Capita plc:

Capita is a modern outsourcing and business process services company that supports clients in both the public and private sectors. Operating across eight countries, it focuses on delivering efficient, technology-enabled services to enhance customer experiences. The company plays a significant role in UK and European markets, serving millions of people daily.

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.

British Land Company plc (LSE:BLND) delivered a solid performance for the six months ending September 2025, supported by strong demand in its London office campuses and retail parks. Leasing activity remained robust, with 1.4 million sq ft leased at rates exceeding estimated rental values, contributing to earnings growth and improved portfolio metrics.

Rising rental income and sustained high occupancy helped drive a 1.2% increase in overall portfolio valuations. The company remains on track to achieve its full-year target of an 8–10% total accounting return and has projected a minimum 6% rise in underlying EPS for FY27. Growth is being supported by particularly strong demand from high-growth sectors such as AI and technology.

British Land’s outlook is underpinned by solid valuation metrics, positive technical indicators, and an attractive dividend yield. While financial performance has shown some volatility, the stock’s relative undervaluation adds to its investment appeal, provided risks are managed effectively.

About British Land Company plc:

British Land is a major real estate company focused on developing and managing prime office campuses and retail parks, with a strong presence in London. The firm is recognized for its proactive asset management and development strategies, particularly in high-demand sectors including AI and technology.

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.

Jupiter Fund Management Plc (LSE:JUP) reported a strong third quarter of 2025, posting net positive flows of £0.3 billion and a 7% increase in assets under management (AUM), which reached £50.4 billion. The uplift was supported by improving investor sentiment and solid performance across UK and systematic equities, partially offset by outflows in the institutional channel.

The company remains focused on expanding its institutional footprint and expects to finalize the acquisition of CCLA Investment Management Limited in early 2026.

Jupiter’s outlook benefits from robust technical momentum and strategic initiatives, including share buybacks and acquisitions that enhance shareholder value. While revenue pressure persists, the company maintains low leverage and a strong equity position. Its valuation remains attractive, underpinned by a healthy dividend yield.

About Jupiter Fund Management Plc:

Jupiter Fund Management is a leading asset manager providing investment products and services to retail, wholesale, and institutional clients. It is particularly recognized for its expertise in UK, systematic, and global equities, with a growing emphasis on the institutional segment.

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.