Blog

European equity markets saw modest gains on Thursday as investors absorbed a fresh wave of corporate earnings while awaiting several key economic indicators from the region.

By 07:05 GMT, Germany’s DAX advanced 0.2%, the U.K.’s FTSE 100 also rose 0.2%, and France’s CAC 40 remained mostly flat.

Corporate earnings flow continues

The second-quarter earnings season is now about halfway complete, with a steady stream of major companies releasing their results on Thursday.

Shell (LSE:SHEL) reported adjusted earnings — its preferred measure of net profit — of $4.3 billion for Q2, beating analyst estimates but down from $6.3 billion a year earlier. The energy giant said it would continue its share repurchase program at a pace of $3.5 billion over the next quarter, marking the 15th consecutive quarter with buybacks above $3 billion.

Anheuser-Busch InBev (EU:ABI) posted a strong rise in underlying Q2 earnings, as higher prices and expanding margins more than offset a drop in global sales volumes for the brewing leader.

BMW (TG:BMW) reaffirmed its full-year outlook, citing its significant manufacturing presence in the U.S. as a buffer against potential American tariffs.

Unilever (LSE:ULVR) exceeded market expectations for Q2 underlying sales growth, benefiting from price increases across its product range.

Air France KLM (EU:AF) also reported improved Q2 operating profits, supported by strong demand for premium travel services despite ongoing tariff worries.

French electrical equipment manufacturer Schneider Electric (EU:SU) maintained its 2025 guidance after reporting robust revenue growth in Q2, driven by continued demand for its data center solutions.

Steelmaker ArcelorMittal (EU:MT), the world’s second-largest, posted earnings slightly above forecasts but trimmed its steel demand outlook due to anticipated tariffs.

British American Tobacco (LSE:BATS) recorded a 1.7% rise in first-half profit on a constant currency basis, beating forecasts thanks to renewed growth in its U.S. business and strong demand for its Velo nicotine pouches.

Across the Atlantic, tech giants Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) delivered impressive quarterly results after Wednesday’s market close on Wall Street. Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) are expected to release their earnings late Thursday.

Economic data on the horizon in Europe

Investors also await inflation figures from France, Germany, and Italy, along with the latest unemployment rates for Germany and the wider EU.

Last week, the European Central Bank kept its main interest rate steady at 2%, pausing after a year of monetary tightening to assess ongoing trade uncertainties with the United States.

Similarly, the U.S. Federal Reserve held interest rates unchanged on Wednesday in a 9-2 vote, marking the fifth straight meeting without a hike, although two Fed governors dissented for the first time in over 30 years.

Earlier Thursday, the Bank of Japan also maintained its policy rates, signaling potential rate hikes if economic and inflation targets are met.

Meanwhile, China’s manufacturing sector contracted for the fourth consecutive month in July, according to an official survey released Thursday. The data suggests that the surge in exports ahead of higher U.S. tariffs is fading while domestic demand remains weak.

Oil markets weigh Russian sanctions and inventory data

Oil prices slipped modestly Thursday as traders digested a surprising rise in U.S. crude inventories and the weak Chinese economic data, while also considering the potential impact of new Russian sanctions.

At 03:05 ET, Brent crude futures dipped 0.3% to $72.26 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures edged down 0.2% to $69.88 a barrel.

Both benchmarks had climbed about 1% on Wednesday, driven mainly by President Trump’s threat to impose heavy tariffs on key buyers of Russian crude in an effort to pressure Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported a 7.7 million barrel increase in crude stockpiles last week, contrary to analysts’ expectations of a 1.3 million barrel drawdown.

The weak Chinese manufacturing figures heightened concerns about future demand from the world’s largest oil importer.

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.

Gold prices bounced back in Asian trading on Thursday, recovering from recent losses as concerns over impending trade tariffs fueled demand for safe haven assets. Investors grew increasingly anxious ahead of an August 1 deadline set by former President Donald Trump for imposing new tariffs.

The rebound in gold was somewhat limited by the Federal Reserve’s decision to keep interest rates unchanged and its indication that a rate cut in September is unlikely.

Spot gold rose 0.8% to $3,301.21 an ounce, while gold futures held near flat levels at $3,352.70 per ounce as of 02:08 ET (06:08 GMT).

Gold had touched a one-month low on Wednesday, pressured by the Fed’s hawkish stance, which it maintained despite pushback from Trump.

Tariff Tensions Revive Gold’s Appeal

Investor focus remained on the upcoming deadline for fresh tariff measures that Trump plans to implement. On Wednesday, he announced a trade agreement with South Korea that includes a 15% tariff on imports. Additionally, India will face a 25% levy on its exports to the U.S. starting Friday, with no deal yet finalized. Brazilian exports are also facing tariffs of up to 50%.

A report from Politico noted that “Trump will sign executive orders on Thursday imposing higher tariffs on countries that have failed to reach trade deals.”

Worries over escalating trade frictions renewed investor interest in gold, reversing some of the metal’s earlier losses that had come amid signs of progress on trade agreements with the EU and Japan.

Fed Holds Firm, Dims Prospect of Rate Cut

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate in the range of 4.25%–4.50% following a 9-2 vote. While markets had previously priced in a potential rate reduction in September, that expectation faded after Fed Chair Jerome Powell offered no specifics on when easing might begin.

Dissenting opinions from Governors Michelle Bowman and Christopher Waller highlighted internal disagreements on policy direction.

With investors now pushing back expectations for a rate cut into late 2025, gold’s upside remained limited. The precious metal tends to lose appeal in high-rate environments, as it doesn’t yield interest.

Copper Hit Hard as Tariff Exclusions Shock Market

U.S. copper prices took a major hit, plunging after the announcement that refined copper would be left out of Trump’s incoming 50% import tariff. Copper futures on the London Metal Exchange dipped 0.3% to $9,683.15 a ton, but U.S. copper futures nosedived 4.2% to $4.43 a pound.

The sharp fall came after a dramatic 19% drop on Wednesday—“the largest ever intraday decline”—triggered by the surprise exclusion of refined copper from new tariffs. Starting August 1, the 50% duty will apply to semi-finished copper products and copper-heavy goods, but not raw materials like ores, concentrates, or cathodes.

“Trump’s first musings of a tariff on copper imports back in January unleashed record shipments of the metal to American ports,” ING analysts said.
“There is now an excess inventory in the US, and that stockpile might now be re-exported,” they added.

Other Metals Mixed

Elsewhere in the metals market, platinum futures advanced 1.8% to $1,339.05 an ounce. Silver futures, however, declined 1.4% to $37.218 per ounce, reflecting the broader market volatility amid shifting economic and trade dynamics.

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.

Oil prices flattened in Thursday’s Asian session after early gains were erased by disappointing economic data from China, casting doubt over demand in the world’s largest crude importer. The bearish outlook from China offset growing concerns about tighter global supplies following aggressive policy moves from former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Crude was also weighed down by a resurgent U.S. dollar, which gained traction on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve chose to keep interest rates unchanged and provided no clear guidance on potential rate cuts. A stronger dollar tends to pressure commodity prices by making them more expensive for non-U.S. buyers.

Earlier in the week, oil prices had seen three consecutive days of gains, driven by expectations of constrained supply. Those expectations were fueled by Trump’s threats to slap heavy tariffs on countries that continue purchasing Russian oil. However, that upward momentum appeared to lose steam on Thursday.

U.S. crude inventory data released midweek showed a surprisingly large increase in overall stockpiles, although gasoline inventories declined, limiting some of the bearish sentiment.

As of 21:34 ET (01:34 GMT), Brent crude futures for September delivery were stable at $73.26 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude saw a marginal rise to $70.10. Both benchmarks had climbed as much as 0.3% earlier in the session.

China PMI Weakness Dampens Oil Rally

Oil bulls were dealt a blow after China posted weaker-than-expected purchasing managers index (PMI) figures for July, with both manufacturing and non-manufacturing activity showing signs of stagnation.

The manufacturing sector contracted more than anticipated, as extreme weather events and ongoing U.S. tariffs disrupted production. Meanwhile, non-manufacturing growth slowed considerably, with overall business activity barely inching forward during the month.

The data sparked renewed fears over China’s economic momentum and its near-term oil consumption outlook. Initial signs of recovery, spurred by Beijing’s earlier stimulus measures, appear to be fading. In response, China’s top policymakers this week hinted at further economic support in the coming months.

Trump Escalates Pressure on Russian Oil Trade

Earlier gains in oil prices this week had been largely driven by Trump’s vow to increase restrictions on Russian crude exports. In a recent statement, he announced plans to introduce 100% secondary tariffs on countries that continue buying oil from Russia, a move aimed at cutting off Moscow’s revenue streams as the war in Ukraine drags on.

Among the likely targets are China and India, two of the largest importers of Russian oil. Trump further declared that starting August 1, India would face 25% tariffs on all exports to the U.S., in addition to other unspecified penalties tied to its energy ties with Russia. He also issued a warning to China over its continued purchases of Russian oil.

Adding to the geopolitical tension, the U.S. government also imposed fresh sanctions on entities connected to Iran’s oil sector. With both Russia and Iran being major players in global crude supply, the mounting restrictions are raising concerns about tighter oil markets in the second half of the year.

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.

U.S. stock futures surged Thursday morning after stellar earnings from tech heavyweights Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) and Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) helped shift attention away from the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold interest rates steady. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump announced a new trade agreement with South Korea, ahead of the August 1 deadline for new “reciprocal” tariffs.

Futures Climb on Tech Momentum

By 03:43 ET, futures on the Dow Jones had gained 171 points (0.4%), the S&P 500 rose by 64 points (1.0%), and Nasdaq 100 futures climbed 330 points (1.4%). The lift was largely attributed to strong quarterly earnings from major tech firms, which softened investor concern over a potentially delayed interest rate cut from the Fed in September.

On Wednesday, Wall Street finished mixed after the Fed’s rate announcement. A stronger-than-expected GDP reading for the second quarter—driven by a drop in imports—provided some optimism. However, domestic demand, as measured by final sales to private domestic purchasers, rose just 1.2%, the slowest pace since late 2022.

Separate labor market data also indicated strength, with a better-than-forecast private payrolls report hinting at continued job resilience. The July nonfarm payrolls report, a key economic indicator, is due Friday.

A handful of solid results from consumer-oriented companies also supported sentiment, reinforcing the perception of a sturdy U.S. consumer.

Trade Deal With South Korea

President Trump announced that the U.S. and South Korea had struck a trade agreement under which Washington would apply a 15% tariff on imports—lower than the initially threatened 25% rate.

The deal is part of a flurry of trade announcements from the administration ahead of its self-imposed August 1 deadline to implement enhanced “reciprocal” duties. Following talks with South Korean officials, Trump said Seoul had agreed to invest $350 billion in U.S. projects and commit to an additional $100 billion in energy purchases.

The structure of South Korea’s investment and the enforceability of its commitments remain vague, echoing similar concerns raised after recent deals with other global partners. Analysts at Capital Economics highlighted lingering uncertainty around how South Korea’s electronics and pharmaceuticals sectors will be affected by upcoming product-specific tariffs.

Fed Holds Rates, Internal Dissent Surfaces

As expected, the Federal Reserve held its benchmark interest rate steady in the 4.25%–4.5% range. The Fed pointed to a “low” unemployment rate, a “solid” labor market, and “somewhat elevated” inflation as reasons for its cautious stance.

Chair Jerome Powell continues to face mounting political pressure from Trump to aggressively lower borrowing costs to stimulate economic activity. Despite Trump’s public criticism—and implied threats to remove Powell—he maintained a cautious tone.

Powell reiterated that it’s premature to signal a rate cut in September and said monetary policy is only “modestly restrictive,” suggesting it’s not yet weighing down the broader economy.

However, not all Fed officials were aligned with Powell. Governors Christopher Waller and Michelle Bowman, both appointed by Trump, favored a 25-basis point rate cut this month, citing signs of labor market softening as justification.

Other central banks also kept rates unchanged this week, including the Bank of Canada and the Bank of Japan.

Meta Soars on Ad Growth and AI Hopes

Meta Platforms shares soared in after-hours trading thanks to strong second-quarter performance driven by its core advertising business and optimism surrounding AI initiatives.

Sales climbed 22% to $47.5 billion, and net income hit $18.3 billion, both surpassing analyst expectations. Analysts at Vital Knowledge noted the results were driven by an 11% increase in ad impressions and a 9% rise in ad prices.

Looking ahead, Meta expects Q3 revenue to grow between 17% and 24% year-over-year but cautioned that growth in Q4 could slow due to a tough comparison base.

Meta reaffirmed its capital spending forecast of $66 billion to $72 billion, up slightly from a prior range of $64 billion to $72 billion, and hinted at a massive $100 billion in capex for 2026. Analysts predict next year’s spending could reach $80 billion.

Executives also flagged that higher depreciation and compensation could create “meaningful upward pressure” on operating costs in 2026.

“Bottom line: the Meta report is extremely robust, and the only negative takeaway is the warning management issues about 2026 costs,” said analysts at Vital Knowledge.

Microsoft Leans Into AI

Microsoft also delivered a standout quarter, with artificial intelligence driving big gains in its cloud business. Azure, its flagship cloud platform, saw revenue jump 39% in the fiscal fourth quarter, beating expectations and contributing to total revenue of $76.4 billion.

Net income rose to $27.2 billion, or $3.65 per share—well ahead of estimates.

CFO Amy Hood said capital expenditures will top $30 billion in the first quarter, up from $24.2 billion in the prior period, as the company continues to ramp up investment in AI infrastructure.

Microsoft stock, which had already climbed over 22% this year, rose more than 8% in post-market trading.

With Meta and Microsoft now having posted results, the spotlight turns to other “Magnificent Seven” members, including Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), both due to report earnings after Thursday’s closing bell.

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.

Rolls-Royce (LSE:RR.) has revised its full-year profit expectations upward following a robust first half marked by a nearly £1 billion increase in revenue. The engineering giant, listed on the FTSE 100, continues to benefit from its ongoing transformation efforts.

For the six months ending in June, Rolls-Royce reported an underlying pre-tax profit of £1.68 billion, significantly higher than the £1.03 billion recorded during the same period in 2024. The company, headquartered in Derby, also posted a 50% rise in underlying operating profit, which grew from £1.14 billion to £1.73 billion.

According to statutory metrics, revenue climbed to £9.49 billion from £8.86 billion, operating profit rose from £1.64 billion to £2.07 billion, and pre-tax profit soared from £1.41 billion to £4.84 billion. Underlying revenue for the period reached £9.05 billion, up from £8.18 billion a year ago.

On the back of this strong performance, Rolls-Royce updated its 2025 outlook, projecting an underlying operating profit between £3.1 billion and £3.2 billion, and free cash flow of £3 billion to £3.1 billion.

Navigating Global Headwinds

Despite ongoing issues with supply chains and tariff impacts, the company credited its multi-year overhaul for driving improved performance.

“Our multi-year transformation continues to deliver,” said CEO Tufan Erginbilgic. “Our actions led to strong first half year results, despite the challenges of the supply chain and tariffs. We are continuing to expand the earnings and cash potential of Rolls-Royce. We delivered continued strong operational and strategic progress in the first half of 2025. In civil aerospace, we achieved significant time on wing milestones and delivered improved aftermarket profitability. In power systems, where we now see further growth potential, we continued to capture profitable growth across data centres and governmental.”

The company characterized the start of 2025 as a period of “strong strategic delivery,” noting marked improvement in key financial metrics compared to the prior year.

“The first half of 2025 has been another period of strong strategic delivery, with significant year on year improvement across all key financial metrics. Driving this improvement were our strategic initiatives, including commercial optimisation and cost efficiency benefits. Strong financial performance was achieved despite an uncertain external environment, including continued supply chain challenges and tariffs. We expect to fully offset the impact of the announced tariffs through the mitigating actions we are taking. We are closely monitoring the potential indirect impact on economic growth, foreign exchange rates, and inflation and we will continue to take the necessary actions. We have seen some improvement in the supply chain, notably the availability of finished parts, helped by our actions, although we continue to see inflationary pressure in product costs,” Rolls-Royce stated.

Record Share Price and Return of Dividends

The company’s share price surpassed the £10 threshold for the first time in July, marking a dramatic recovery from its pandemic-era lows. Since September 2024, the stock has more than doubled in value, shrugging off dips such as the one following tariff announcements by former U.S. President Donald Trump in April.

In a major development for its energy business, Rolls-Royce SMR—its small modular reactor joint venture with Czech energy firm CEZ—won the UK government’s Great British Nuclear (GBN) competition. The group will now construct three units domestically, a move expected to “generate employment, boost the supply chain and generate economic growth, including through the capture of significant export opportunities.” CEO Erginbilgic has said he expects this segment to be profitable and cash flow positive by the end of the decade.

Earlier in the year, the company reinstated its dividend and announced a £1 billion share buyback scheme after beating full-year expectations. Investors were offered a 6 pence per share dividend—the first since before the Covid-19 crisis—and the buyback is scheduled to run through the end of 2025.

Rolls-Royce finished 2024 with an underlying profit of £2.5 billion, comfortably exceeding forecasts of £2.1 billion to £2.3 billion. Revenue came in at £17.8 billion, also ahead of analysts’ expectations of £17.3 billion.

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.

Shell Plc (LSE:SHEL) reported a decline in income for the second quarter of 2025, driven by lower trading margins and reduced realized prices for both liquids and natural gas. However, the impact was partially offset by stronger marketing margins and lower operating costs. As part of its continued focus on shareholder returns, Shell unveiled a new $3.5 billion share buyback program, scheduled for completion by Q3 2025. The company also marked key portfolio milestones, including the first LNG shipment from its LNG Canada facility and an increased stake in the Ursa platform in the Gulf of Mexico.

Shell maintains a positive outlook, supported by solid financial fundamentals, strong technical momentum, and its commitment to capital returns. While revenue pressures and sector-specific headwinds remain, the company’s strategic positioning and active portfolio management reinforce its long-term investment case.

About Shell Plc

Shell Plc is a major global energy company involved in the exploration, production, refining, and distribution of oil and natural gas. The firm also invests in chemical manufacturing and renewable energy initiatives, with a strategic focus on sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions.

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.

British American Tobacco (LSE:BATS) posted its half-year results for 2025, showing a slight revenue decline driven by adverse currency effects. However, on a constant currency basis, revenue grew thanks to strong performance in the U.S. and the success of its Velo Plus product. The company’s New Categories segment—which includes smokeless products—now represents 18.2% of total revenue and has seen a notable rise in contribution margin. Despite regional challenges, particularly in APMEA, BAT remains on track to meet full-year targets, supported by ongoing innovation and investments in high-margin areas. The company continues to deliver shareholder value through solid cash flow and share buy-back programs.

BAT’s stock benefits from robust cash generation and a committed buyback strategy. While revenue volatility and valuation concerns persist, the firm’s strong dividend yield and financial resilience make it appealing for long-term investors.

About British American Tobacco

British American Tobacco is a global leader in the tobacco sector, producing cigarettes and smokeless products. The company focuses on growing its New Categories business, including modern oral products like Velo Plus, aiming to expand its presence in the U.S. and other key 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.

Spire Healthcare (LSE:SPI) released its interim results for H1 2025, reporting a 4.9% rise in revenue alongside a 2.8% increase in adjusted EBITDA, navigating headwinds such as increased National Insurance and Minimum Wage costs. The company has executed a major restructuring program, including staff reductions and hospital function consolidations, projected to deliver over £20 million in cost savings in the second half of the year. Additionally, Spire has expanded its footprint in primary care through strategic acquisitions and new contract wins, aiming to strengthen market share and operational efficiency. Investments in technology and ongoing strategic initiatives underscore its commitment to long-term growth and enhancing shareholder value amid a challenging and evolving healthcare landscape.

Spire’s outlook is supported by solid financial results and positive corporate developments. While revenue growth and strategic progress are encouraging, elevated leverage and slim net profit margins present ongoing challenges. Technical signals show neutral to slightly positive trends, but valuation metrics suggest the stock trades at a premium.

About Spire Healthcare

Spire Healthcare Group PLC is a leading independent healthcare provider in the UK, delivering a broad range of services including hospital care, primary care, and occupational health. The company focuses on high-quality private healthcare provision, NHS collaborations, and adoption of innovative medical technologies.

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.

Unilever (LSE:ULVR) posted a 3.4% increase in underlying sales for the first half of 2025, supported by a balanced rise in both volume and pricing. However, reported turnover fell by 3.2%, mainly due to negative currency effects and net asset disposals. The company has finalized the operational separation of its Ice Cream division, preparing for its planned demerger in November. This move is designed to streamline Unilever’s focus and establish the Ice Cream business as an independent market leader. Looking ahead, Unilever expects growth to accelerate in emerging markets, while maintaining steady progress in developed regions throughout the remainder of 2025.

The company’s outlook is underpinned by solid financial results, favorable earnings commentary, and strategic corporate measures. Although certain technical signals warrant caution, Unilever’s consistent shareholder returns and strategic repositioning support its strong market standing.

About Unilever

Unilever PLC is a global consumer goods leader, with a broad portfolio spanning beauty and wellbeing, personal care, home care, food, and ice cream products. The company operates extensively across developed and emerging markets, with a focus on premium brands and expanding its digital commerce footprint.

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.

Next plc (LSE:NXT) posted a robust second quarter, with full-price sales rising 10.5% year-over-year, outperforming expectations by £49 million. The sales boost was driven by favorable UK weather and successful international digital marketing efforts. As a result, Next has raised its full-year profit forecast by £25 million, now targeting £1,105 million.

Despite this encouraging start, the company remains cautious about the latter half of the year, anticipating slower growth in the UK due to economic headwinds and challenging year-on-year comparisons. Meanwhile, international online sales are expected to maintain strong momentum, with growth guidance lifted from 13.1% to 19.4%.

Next continues to demonstrate solid financial health, supported by steady operational margins and consistent expansion. Technical indicators suggest stability, although valuation remains moderate. Strategic developments are positive, though the recent sale of shares by the CEO may influence market sentiment.

About Next plc

Next plc is a major player in the retail sector, offering an extensive range of clothing, footwear, accessories, and home goods through both physical stores and online channels. The company holds a strong presence in the UK and abroad, focusing on delivering quality fashion and home 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.