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  • Centrica (CNA) acquires Severn gas-fired power station in £370 million deal

    Centrica (CNA) acquires Severn gas-fired power station in £370 million deal

    Centrica (LSE:CNA) has finalised the acquisition of the Severn combined-cycle gas turbine power plant in South Wales from Calon Energy for £370 million. The transaction increases the company’s electricity generation portfolio across the UK and Ireland to 4GW, including projects currently under development and construction. The Severn facility, commissioned in 2010, has an 850MW capacity and is regarded as one of the UK’s most efficient gas-fired power stations, providing large-scale flexible generation capability at a time of growing demand for grid stability.

    Plant expected to provide long-term earnings contribution

    Centrica said the Severn asset is well positioned to benefit from several revenue streams, including wholesale electricity sales, capacity market payments and balancing services supplied to the National Energy System Operator. The company expects the station to deliver average annual capacity market revenues of around £35 million through to 2030, while EBITDA is projected to range between £30 million and £60 million annually from 2027 onward. Management also indicated the acquisition is expected to become earnings accretive on a per-share basis from the first full year following completion.

    Flexible generation seen as key during energy transition

    The company believes the Severn power station will play an important role in supporting system reliability during the UK’s ongoing energy transition. Centrica noted that gas-fired generation continues to provide essential dispatchable and flexible power capacity as older plants retire and grid constraints persist. The acquisition is aligned with the group’s broader capital allocation strategy and increases expected 2026 capital investment to approximately £1.1 billion. The purchase was funded entirely through existing cash resources on a cash-free, debt-free basis.

    Integration costs expected to weigh on short-term earnings

    Centrica warned that transaction-related expenses, integration costs and seasonally weaker summer revenues are likely to contribute to a modest net loss during 2026. Despite this, management sees opportunities to improve returns through operational optimisation and by applying its expertise in managing critical infrastructure assets. The deal also strengthens Centrica’s exposure to flexible power generation as electricity demand in South Wales is expected to rise, particularly from emerging high-energy users such as data centres.

    Financial profile remains balanced

    The company’s outlook is supported by solid revenue growth and consistently positive free cash flow generation, although this is balanced against volatile profitability, including a net loss recorded in 2025, and a balance sheet viewed as only moderately resilient. Technical indicators remain moderately constructive, with the stock trading above key long-term moving averages and momentum signals remaining neutral. Valuation metrics are considered reasonable, supported by a moderate price-to-earnings ratio and dividend yield.

    More about Centrica

    Centrica plc is a UK-based energy group listed on the London Stock Exchange, operating across electricity generation, energy supply and related services throughout the UK and Ireland. The company manages a portfolio of flexible generation assets, including combined-cycle gas turbine plants, and focuses on supporting energy security and the transition toward a lower-carbon energy system while generating returns for consumers, businesses and shareholders.

  • Journeo (JNEO) secures US transit contract worth US$1.2 million

    Journeo (JNEO) secures US transit contract worth US$1.2 million

    Journeo (LSE:JNEO) has won a US$1.2 million contract through its subsidiary Infotec to provide advanced passenger display systems for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority network in Boston. The order was awarded by Outfront Media Group and relates to one of the largest and busiest public transport systems in the United States. The customised display technology, designed by Journeo’s in-house Design Centre, incorporates high-performance embedded systems aimed at improving operational reliability, enabling remote diagnostics and supporting long-term performance in demanding transit environments.

    Boston project expands North American presence

    Work on the MBTA programme is already underway, with product deliveries expected to continue through 2026. The agreement marks another step in Journeo’s expansion across North America following its recent deployment within New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority network. The company said the contract supports its strategy of delivering lifecycle support for passenger display infrastructure while strengthening its position in the global transport technology sector. Growing demand for intelligent passenger information systems internationally is also expected to support further opportunities in the region.

    Strong fundamentals contrasted by weaker market momentum

    Journeo continues to benefit from solid financial fundamentals, including revenue growth, improving profitability, reduced leverage and stronger recent cash generation. However, these positives are currently offset by weak technical indicators, with the share price trading below major moving averages and bearish momentum trends remaining in place. While the company’s relatively low price-to-earnings valuation offers some support, it has not been sufficient to counter the prevailing downward trend in the stock.

    More about Journeo

    Journeo plc is a UK-based technology provider specialising in intelligent transport systems and infrastructure solutions for public transport networks and critical national infrastructure. Operating through six subsidiaries, the group supplies integrated passenger information systems, CCTV, telematics, real-time communication technologies, IoT-enabled displays and advanced surveillance solutions to bus and rail operators, airports and high-security facilities.

  • MHA raises earnings expectations following revenue growth and international expansion

    MHA raises earnings expectations following revenue growth and international expansion

    MHA plc (LSE:MHA) delivered a strong trading update for the financial year ended 31 March 2026, reporting a 12% increase in group revenue to approximately £251 million. Adjusted EBITDA also climbed 12% to around £46 million, surpassing market expectations as demand remained solid across all four of the company’s core service divisions. Growth was particularly driven by activity in the financial services, manufacturing and engineering, and professional services sectors. The group also reported an improved net cash position of roughly £24 million while maintaining quarterly dividend payments under its progressive dividend framework.

    Acquisitions strengthen presence in Europe and the Middle East

    The company significantly expanded its international operations through the acquisition of Baker Tilly South East Europe in August 2025 and the UAE operations of Moore Stephens in April 2026. These deals broadened MHA’s reach across South-East Europe and the Middle East and are expected to contribute positively to earnings during their first full financial years within the group. Management highlighted a strong acquisition pipeline and continued investment in technology, artificial intelligence, talent development and sector-focused expertise as key drivers of future growth.

    Medium-term revenue ambitions remain on track

    MHA reiterated confidence in achieving its medium-term objective of generating more than £500 million in annual revenue. The company said its expanding international network, combined with ongoing strategic investment and sustained client demand, positions the business well for continued long-term growth and value creation for shareholders and stakeholders alike.

    More about MHA Plc

    MHA plc is a United Kingdom-based professional services group offering audit and assurance, tax, accountancy and advisory services across a wide range of industries. The company employs more than 2,300 staff and 157 partners operating from 37 offices located across the UK, Ireland, South-East Europe, the UAE and the Cayman Islands. MHA also acts as the Baker Tilly International representative in several European markets, including the UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Greece.

  • Strategic Minerals (SML) reports stronger tin assays at Redmoor project

    Strategic Minerals (SML) reports stronger tin assays at Redmoor project

    Strategic Minerals (LSE:SML) has released upgraded tin assay results following the reanalysis of 428 historical drill core samples from its Redmoor project in Cornwall. The company used an analytical method considered more effective for cassiterite mineralisation, with the revised testing returning higher tin grades in 78% of the samples reviewed. Although the updated figures are not expected to materially alter the recently published 2026 Mineral Resource Estimate, they are anticipated to improve the next resource model update by providing greater definition to high-grade tin zones and tin-only veins located both within and beyond the Sheeted Vein System.

    New sampling points to additional mineralisation potential

    Further sampling from drillhole CRD040 has identified indications that tin mineralisation may extend between the Sheeted Vein System and the North Tin Zone. The findings strengthen the possibility of expanding known mineralised areas or identifying entirely new zones at Redmoor. Management stated that ongoing relogging, resampling and drilling activity, together with an increase in resource infill drilling and pre-feasibility work, is expected to enhance the project’s long-term value and support more refined resource updates in the future.

    Financial improvement balanced by valuation concerns

    The company’s outlook is underpinned by stronger financial performance during 2024 and supportive technical trading signals indicating a sustained upward trend. However, investor sentiment may be tempered by an elevated valuation, reflected in a high price-to-earnings ratio and the absence of dividend yield data. Technical indicators also suggest overbought conditions, potentially increasing the risk of short-term volatility.

    More about Strategic Minerals

    Strategic Minerals plc is an international exploration and production company listed on the AIM market and the U.S. OTC market. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Cornwall Resources Limited, the group is advancing the Redmoor tungsten-tin-copper project in Cornwall, United Kingdom, with a focus on developing polymetallic mineralisation and the combined production potential of tungsten and tin.

  • Great Western Mining (GWMO) launches metallurgical testing at Nevada tungsten asset

    Great Western Mining (GWMO) launches metallurgical testing at Nevada tungsten asset

    Great Western Mining (LSE:GWMO) has commenced metallurgical flotation testing on a 750-kilogram bulk sample taken from its Defender–Pine Crow tungsten project in Mineral County, Nevada. The company has engaged Eriez Global, based in Pennsylvania, to carry out a proof-of-concept programme focused on scheelite-rich skarn mineralisation. The testing will apply an established processing flowsheet aimed at producing a high-grade tungsten concentrate while demonstrating the project’s potential to support a domestic U.S. tungsten supply chain.

    Resource estimate and drilling plans support project expansion

    The company expects assay results in the third quarter of 2026, with the findings set to contribute to an initial mineral resource estimate targeted for later in the year. These activities form part of a broader fully funded exploration strategy at Defender–Pine Crow. Planned work includes geophysical surveys, geological mapping, trenching, and a drilling campaign scheduled to begin in July 2026. The programme is intended to evaluate the scale and continuity of the mineral system and examine links to the nearby M2 copper skarn trend, which could further strengthen the project’s strategic significance.

    Financial pressures offset by improving technical indicators

    Great Western Mining’s investment outlook remains weighed down by weak financial fundamentals, including a lack of revenue generation, ongoing losses, and continued cash outflows, despite relatively low debt levels. However, technical indicators present a more constructive picture, with the share price trading above key moving averages and momentum remaining moderately positive. Valuation metrics remain limited due to the company’s negative earnings profile and the absence of dividend yield data.

    More about Great Western Mining

    Great Western Mining Corporation is an exploration and development company concentrating on strategic mineral opportunities across multiple wholly owned claim groups in Mineral County, Nevada, a well-established U.S. mining jurisdiction. The company is placing greater emphasis on tungsten as a critical mineral while also progressing its Huntoon copper project and retaining exposure to gold and silver through exploration activities and tailings reprocessing initiatives.

  • Wall Street Futures Rise As Markets Cheer Signs Of Possible U.S.-Iran Breakthrough: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq

    Wall Street Futures Rise As Markets Cheer Signs Of Possible U.S.-Iran Breakthrough: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq

    U.S. stock futures traded higher early Wednesday, pointing to another positive session for equities after strong gains in the previous trading day.

    Investor confidence improved as hopes grew that the conflict in the Middle East could move toward a diplomatic resolution, following a favorable report from Axios.

    Axios, citing two U.S. officials and two additional people familiar with the talks, reported that the White House believes it is nearing a short memorandum of understanding with Iran aimed at ending the war.

    According to the report, the proposed arrangement would see Iran agree to suspend nuclear enrichment activities, while Washington would ease sanctions and release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets. The discussions also reportedly include easing restrictions tied to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

    Although the report stressed that negotiations remain incomplete, sources told Axios the current talks represent the closest the two sides have come to an agreement since hostilities began.

    Adding to the positive tone, President Donald Trump said the United States would temporarily halt efforts to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz while discussions continue over a possible final agreement.

    Still, Trump also struck a tougher tone in a separate Truth Social post, warning that the U.S. would resume attacks against Iran “at a much higher level and intensity than it was before” if negotiations collapse.

    “Even without a fully detailed agreement, the mere progress toward a framework for de-escalation is enough to alter how risk is being priced,” said Daniela Hathorn, Senior Market Analyst at Capital.com.

    “However, it is important to stress that this is still a fragile step rather than a definitive resolution,” she added. “A one-page memo suggests that many key details remain unresolved, and past experience has shown that negotiations can quickly stall or reverse.”

    Technology stocks also supported futures trading, led by a strong premarket rally in AMD (NASDAQ:AMD), which jumped 15.3%.

    AMD surged after delivering quarterly earnings and revenue ahead of analyst expectations while also issuing stronger-than-expected guidance for the second quarter.

    In economic news, payroll processor ADP reported stronger-than-expected private sector hiring growth in April.

    ADP said private payrolls increased by 109,000 jobs last month after March’s figure was revised lower to 61,000 from the previously reported 62,000.

    Economists had forecast job growth of 85,000.

    Markets had already rallied sharply on Tuesday following early weakness, with both the Nasdaq Composite and the S&P 500 erasing Monday’s declines and closing at fresh record highs.

    Despite easing from intraday peaks late in the session, the major indexes still ended firmly higher. The Nasdaq gained 258.32 points, or 1%, to finish at 25,326.13, while the S&P 500 climbed 58.47 points, or 0.8%, to 7,259.22. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 356.35 points, or 0.7%, to close at 49,298.25.

    Equities also benefited from a steep decline in oil prices. U.S. crude futures fell more than 3% after surging over 4% on Monday.

    Oil prices retreated as concerns about escalating Middle East tensions eased. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the U.S.-Iran ceasefire was “not over” despite Iranian attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates.

    “Ultimately the President is going to make a decision whether anything were to escalate into a violation of a ceasefire,” Hegseth said. “Right now, the ceasefire certainly holds but we’re going to be watching very, very closely.”

    Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine told reporters the Iranian attacks remain “below the threshold of restarting major combat operations at this point.”

    Hegseth also confirmed that two American commercial vessels, escorted by U.S. destroyers, safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz, declaring the “lane is clear.”

    Corporate earnings remained another source of support for markets. U.S.-listed shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev (BUD) jumped 8.7% after the brewer reported quarterly results that beat analyst expectations on both earnings and revenue.

    Separately, fresh data from the Institute for Supply Management showed a modest slowdown in growth across the U.S. services sector during April.

    The ISM services PMI slipped to 53.6 from 54.0 in March, though it remained above the 50 level that signals expansion. Economists had expected a reading of 53.7.

    Technology-related sectors led Tuesday’s market gains.

    Computer hardware stocks rallied strongly, pushing the NYSE Arca Computer Hardware Index up 4.4% to a new record close.

    Semiconductor stocks also advanced sharply, with the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index climbing 4.2% to another all-time closing high.

    Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) helped lift the chip sector after Bloomberg reported that Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) had explored using Intel to manufacture processors for its devices in the United States.

    Airline, steel and housing stocks also posted notable gains as buying interest spread broadly across the market.

  • European equities rally as hopes rise for U.S.-Iran agreement: DAX, CAC, FTSE100

    European equities rally as hopes rise for U.S.-Iran agreement: DAX, CAC, FTSE100

    European stock markets moved sharply higher on Wednesday as investor sentiment improved on growing expectations that the United States and Iran could move toward a diplomatic agreement.

    A steep drop in oil prices and easing concerns over energy-driven inflation further supported risk appetite across the region. Investor confidence was also boosted by record highs in U.S. stock futures and another round of strong corporate earnings reports.

    The U.K.’s FTSE 100 climbed 2.6% from Tuesday’s close of 10,219.11 and was trading at 10,482.96. During the session, the index moved between 10,324.72 and 10,487.66.

    France’s CAC 40 advanced 3.3% to 8,329.49 after fluctuating between 8,131.53 and 8,330.44. The benchmark index has now gained 8.2% since the start of the year.

    Germany’s DAX jumped 2.7% to 25,041.89 from the previous close of 24,392.27. The index traded between 24,616.25 and 25,150.39 and touched its highest level in nine weeks.

    Switzerland’s Swiss Market Index also rallied strongly, rising 2.3% from 13,052.17 to 13,348.40. The session range stood between 13,174.20 and 13,377.70.

    The pan-European EURO STOXX 50 gained 3% to trade at 6,045.45, compared with its prior close of 5,869.63. Intraday trading ranged from 5,917.95 to 6,065.06.

    Renewed optimism surrounding a possible U.S.-Iran peace agreement also weakened the safe-haven U.S. dollar.

    The EUR/USD pair rose 0.7% to 1.1769, while GBP/USD gained 0.5% to trade at 1.3621.

    European markets had already finished Tuesday’s session in positive territory after tensions in the Middle East showed signs of easing.

  • Copper prices gain after Trump highlights progress in Iran negotiations

    Copper prices gain after Trump highlights progress in Iran negotiations

    Copper prices strengthened on Wednesday after U.S. President Donald Trump pointed to progress in talks aimed at ending the conflict with Iran, helping ease concerns about potential economic disruption. Nickel also extended gains, climbing above the $2,000 mark for the first time in around two years.

    Three-month copper contracts on the London Metal Exchange rose 1.1% to $13,134.50 per metric ton by 08:24 GMT, reaching their strongest level since April 27.

    Trump said Tuesday that he would temporarily halt the operation escorting vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, adding that “great progress” had been made toward a broader agreement with Iran. Following the comments, global stock markets moved higher, oil prices declined and the U.S. dollar weakened.

  • Building the Future of Quantum Innovation: Delta Gold Technologies Steps Forward

    Building the Future of Quantum Innovation: Delta Gold Technologies Steps Forward

    Quantum technology may still be in its formative years, but the race to shape its future is already well underway. As history has shown across industries, from semiconductors to software, those who secure and protect key intellectual property early often emerge as the leaders of tomorrow. Delta Gold Technologies plc (AQSE:DGQ) (USOTC:DGQTF) appears to be positioning itself firmly within that trajectory.

    In a recent discussion, CEO Michael Jones outlined a significant milestone for the company: the filing of a provisional patent focused on quantum transducer structures. Not only does this mark a critical step in safeguarding proprietary innovation, but it also demonstrates the company’s ability to move ahead of schedule, filing approximately six months earlier than planned. In a field as complex and competitive as quantum technology, that kind of momentum matters.

    At the heart of Delta Gold’s strategy is collaboration. By partnering with leading academic institutions such as the University of Toronto and Penn State, the company is bridging the often-wide gap between theoretical research and commercial application. Working alongside globally respected experts, including highly published researchers in quantum science, Delta Gold is tapping into a deep well of knowledge while steering that expertise toward tangible, market-driven outcomes.

    This approach reflects a broader belief: that universities are not just centers of learning, but powerful engines of invention. Many of the world’s most transformative technologies have emerged from academic environments, and Delta Gold is actively harnessing that potential. By directing research efforts toward practical use cases, the company is helping to ensure that innovation does not remain confined to the lab, but instead evolves into scalable, real-world solutions.

    Looking ahead, the company’s roadmap is defined by clear and measurable milestones. The continued development of research programs across partner institutions, the expansion of its academic network, potentially including leading UK universities, and the progression from provisional to more detailed patents all signal steady advancement. These steps will not only strengthen Delta Gold’s intellectual property portfolio but also provide greater visibility into the specific technologies being developed.

    For investors and industry observers, these developments offer important indicators of progress. In the next 12 to 18 months, the combination of expanding collaborations and increasingly defined patents will likely serve as key signals of the company’s trajectory.

    Ultimately, Delta Gold Technologies is telling a compelling story, one centered on foresight, collaboration, and strategic protection of innovation. By investing early in intellectual property and aligning itself with top-tier academic partners, the company is working to transform quantum research into meaningful commercial value.

    In a field where the future is still being written, Delta Gold is making a strong case that it intends to be one of its authors.

  • Oil prices tumble further as Trump hints at progress toward Iran agreement

    Oil prices tumble further as Trump hints at progress toward Iran agreement

    Oil prices continued to retreat on Wednesday after U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that negotiations with Iran may be advancing, raising hopes that disrupted Middle Eastern crude supplies could eventually return to global markets.

    Brent crude futures fell $6.70, or 6.1%, to $103.17 per barrel by 08:56 GMT after earlier slipping to their lowest level in nearly two weeks. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude dropped $6.77, or 6.6%, to $95.50 a barrel. Both benchmarks had already declined roughly 4% during the previous session.

    Strait of Hormuz disruption had fueled oil rally

    The shutdown of shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz since February has tightened global oil supplies and pushed prices sharply higher, with Brent crude reaching its highest level since March 2022 last week.

    However, Trump said Tuesday that the United States would temporarily suspend its naval escort operation through the strategic waterway, citing progress toward a broader diplomatic agreement with Iran.

    Although the president did not provide additional specifics, he confirmed that the U.S. Navy would continue enforcing a blockade on Iranian ports.

    Iran seeks balanced agreement as diplomacy continues

    Iran said it would only support a comprehensive and fair agreement, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi avoided directly responding to Trump’s proposal to pause U.S. ship escort operations.

    Earlier this week, the U.S. military stated that several Iranian small boats had been destroyed during efforts to assist commercial vessels stranded in the narrow shipping corridor.

    Falling inventories underline pressure on energy markets

    The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has contributed to declining global oil and fuel stockpiles as refiners attempt to offset supply shortages.

    According to market sources citing figures from the American Petroleum Institute, U.S. crude inventories fell for a third straight week, while gasoline and distillate supplies also decreased.

    Crude oil stockpiles dropped by 8.1 million barrels in the week ending May 1, sources said. Gasoline inventories fell by 6.1 million barrels, while distillate stocks declined by 4.6 million barrels over the same period.

    Official inventory data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration is expected at 14:30 GMT.