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  • Strategic Minerals Extends Redmoor Discovery Footprint Ahead of Expanded Drilling Programme (SML)

    Strategic Minerals Extends Redmoor Discovery Footprint Ahead of Expanded Drilling Programme (SML)

    New Mineralised Zones Identified Beyond Existing Resource Area

    Strategic Minerals (LSE:SML) has released further assay results from its 2025 drilling campaign at the Redmoor project in Cornwall, revealing additional tin- and tungsten-bearing mineralisation beyond the boundaries of the current resource model.

    The latest results identified several new mineralised structures north of the existing Redmoor resource, including intersections such as 1.00 metre grading 0.67% tin and 0.20% WO₃. These discoveries sit outside the presently defined resource area and are expected to contribute to future geological modelling and resource growth.

    Management believes the results reinforce the broader mineral potential of the Redmoor project and provide additional targets for follow-up exploration.

    Drilling Programme Continues to Deliver Encouraging Results

    The company has completed drilling of hole CRD043, which intersected visually significant mineralised vein systems.

    Meanwhile, drilling of hole CRD044 is progressing as planned, with operations continuing to advance on schedule.

    Strategic Minerals is also undertaking a review and re-logging of historical drill core, which has already identified additional tin-bearing intervals that could contribute to a better understanding of the project’s mineralisation.

    The combined programme is helping to refine the geological model and improve targeting for future drilling activities.

    Expanded Campaign Set to Accelerate Resource Development

    Planning approval for a larger drilling programme is nearing completion, positioning the company to significantly increase exploration activity at Redmoor.

    Additional drilling rigs are expected to be mobilised once approvals are finalised, enabling a broader campaign focused on increasing resource confidence and expanding known mineralisation.

    Management expects the enhanced drilling effort to support future resource upgrades and move the project closer to the prefeasibility stage.

    Redmoor Continues to Advance as a Strategic UK Critical Minerals Project

    The latest exploration success strengthens Redmoor’s position as one of the UK’s most significant emerging critical minerals projects.

    With exposure to tin, tungsten and copper, the project is aligned with growing demand for strategically important metals used across manufacturing, technology and energy-transition industries.

    The company believes continued exploration success could further enhance Redmoor’s importance within the UK and European critical minerals supply chain.

    Outlook Supported by Exploration Progress and Financial Stability

    Strategic Minerals’ outlook reflects a combination of operational progress and financial resilience.

    The company benefits from a relatively strong balance sheet with low leverage, providing financial flexibility to support exploration activities.

    However, profitability and free cash flow have been inconsistent, creating a mixed financial picture.

    Technical indicators remain somewhat cautious in the near term, with the share price trading below key short-term averages and momentum indicators remaining subdued.

    Valuation metrics appear balanced, supported by a moderate earnings multiple, although the absence of a dividend limits additional investor appeal.

    More about Strategic Minerals

    Strategic Minerals plc is an AIM- and OTC-listed exploration and production company focused on developing critical mineral assets.

    Its principal growth project is the Redmoor tungsten-tin-copper deposit in Cornwall, operated through wholly owned subsidiary Cornwall Resources Limited. The project is focused on supplying key minerals required for industrial, technological and energy-transition applications, positioning the company within the growing European critical minerals market.

  • Bunzl Raises 2026 Guidance and Expands Australian Healthcare Presence Through Acquisition (BNZL)

    Bunzl Raises 2026 Guidance and Expands Australian Healthcare Presence Through Acquisition (BNZL)

    Strong First-Half Trading Supports Upgraded Outlook

    Bunzl (LSE:BNZL) has improved its expectations for 2026 after reporting stronger-than-anticipated trading during the first half of the year.

    The distribution and services group expects first-half revenue to increase by approximately 4% at constant exchange rates, with underlying revenue growth of around 3%. The company also anticipates a modest improvement in operating margins during the period.

    Management attributed the performance to a combination of inflation in selected product categories, geopolitical-related cost increases and particularly strong volume growth within its North American Distribution division.

    North American Business Continues to Deliver

    Bunzl highlighted its North American operations as a key contributor to growth, benefiting from improved execution, enhanced service levels and stronger customer demand.

    The business delivered solid volume gains during the period, helping offset more challenging conditions in other parts of the portfolio.

    Management noted that operational improvements implemented across the region have continued to support performance and strengthen customer relationships.

    Full-Year Revenue Expectations Increased

    Following the stronger first-half performance, Bunzl now expects modest underlying revenue growth for the full 2026 financial year.

    The company believes revenue will be supported by a combination of inflationary pricing effects and a small contribution from recent acquisitions.

    Despite the improved sales outlook, Bunzl continues to expect full-year operating margins to be slightly lower than those achieved in the previous year, reflecting ongoing cost pressures and regional market challenges.

    Scientifix Acquisition Strengthens Healthcare Platform

    Alongside its trading update, Bunzl announced the acquisition of Scientifix Group in Australia.

    Scientifix is a distributor serving the life sciences and biotechnology sectors and generates approximately AUD 18 million in annual revenue.

    The acquisition expands Bunzl’s healthcare offering in Australia and strengthens its position in a market that management views as both attractive and highly fragmented.

    The company sees further opportunities to pursue additional acquisitions in the sector as part of its long-term growth strategy.

    Financial Strength Continues to Support Growth

    Bunzl’s outlook remains supported by solid financial performance and strong cash generation.

    The company continues to benefit from high-quality free cash flow, providing flexibility to pursue acquisitions and invest in organic growth initiatives.

    While leverage levels and some recent pressure on profitability remain areas of focus, management believes the group’s financial position remains robust.

    Outlook Remains Positive Despite Margin Pressure

    The company’s outlook reflects a balance between encouraging revenue momentum and ongoing profitability challenges.

    Technical indicators remain supportive, with positive share-price momentum underpinning investor sentiment.

    Valuation metrics also appear reasonable relative to peers, supported by a mid-teen earnings multiple and a dividend yield of approximately 3.3%.

    However, management remains cautious regarding operating margins, citing regional pressures and execution challenges that could continue to weigh on profitability during the remainder of the year.

    More about Bunzl

    Bunzl plc is an international distribution and services group that provides outsourced, value-added distribution solutions to businesses across a wide range of industries.

    The company supplies essential products including healthcare, safety, cleaning, foodservice and distribution-related items to customers worldwide. Bunzl has a significant presence in North America, Europe, Australia and other international markets and continues to pursue growth through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions.

  • Symphony Environmental Improves Margins and Returns to Profit Following Strategic Restructuring (SYM)

    Symphony Environmental Improves Margins and Returns to Profit Following Strategic Restructuring (SYM)

    Revenue Declines but Profitability Metrics Strengthen

    Symphony Environmental (LSE:SYM) reported revenue of £5.73 million for 2025, representing a 13% decline compared with the previous year, primarily due to challenges within its Middle East operations.

    Despite lower sales, the company improved its gross margin to 51% as management focused on higher-quality revenue streams and implemented stricter margin management measures.

    Operating losses increased to £2.12 million, reflecting higher administrative expenses and one-off costs associated with strategic initiatives. However, the group reduced net borrowings during the year and strengthened its financial position through a £2.09 million equity fundraising.

    d2w Technology Continues to Drive Core Revenue

    The company’s d2w biodegradable plastics technology remained its largest source of revenue during the period.

    Management highlighted increasing regulatory support and growing scientific recognition for the technology across several international markets, including Mexico, Brazil, Canada and the United States.

    The continued adoption of d2w products remains a central component of Symphony’s commercial strategy as governments and businesses seek solutions to address plastic waste and environmental sustainability challenges.

    d2p Platform Advances Across Multiple Applications

    Symphony also reported progress across its d2p technology platform, which focuses on enhancing the functionality of plastic products.

    Several applications are now progressing through advanced testing phases, including insect-control solutions and flame-retardant technologies.

    The company believes these developments could create additional commercial opportunities and diversify future revenue streams beyond its established biodegradable plastics business.

    Early 2026 Results Point to Improved Performance

    Trading conditions improved during the opening months of 2026, with Symphony reporting a return to net profitability during the first five months of the year.

    Management attributed the improvement to the benefits of its restructuring programme, the transition of its Saudi Arabian sales operations and a more efficient cost base.

    The company believes these initiatives are beginning to deliver operational benefits and could support stronger financial performance going forward.

    India and International Markets Offer Growth Opportunities

    In addition to strengthening its existing operations, Symphony continues to explore new growth opportunities in international markets.

    Management highlighted India as a potentially significant future market, while ongoing progress in North America, Latin America and other regions provides additional avenues for expansion.

    The company views its improved operating structure as a platform for scalable growth as commercial opportunities continue to develop.

    Outlook Reflects Improving Momentum but Ongoing Challenges

    Symphony Environmental Technologies’ outlook remains influenced by its historical financial challenges, including periods of weak profitability and earnings pressure.

    However, recent corporate developments, strengthening operational performance and signs of improved trading momentum provide a more encouraging backdrop.

    Valuation metrics remain constrained by the company’s earnings profile and the absence of a dividend, although management believes recent progress demonstrates the potential for a more sustainable financial recovery.

    More about Symphony Environmental Technologies

    Symphony Environmental Technologies is a UK-based technology company focused on developing products that make plastics smarter, safer and more sustainable.

    Its portfolio includes d2w biodegradable additives, d2p performance-enhancing technologies such as insect-control and flame-retardant solutions, and NbR products. The company markets its technologies through a network of direct sales channels, manufacturing partners and distributors across the Middle East, Europe, the Americas and Asia.

  • Tertiary Minerals Advances Zambian Exploration Portfolio with New Funding and JORC Target (TYM)

    Tertiary Minerals Advances Zambian Exploration Portfolio with New Funding and JORC Target (TYM)

    Mushima North Delivers Exploration Progress and Resource Potential

    Tertiary Minerals (LSE:TYM) reported unaudited interim results for the six months ended 31 March 2026, highlighting continued progress at its flagship Mushima North project in Zambia.

    Recent drilling programmes returned high-grade silver and copper intersections, supporting the publication of a JORC Exploration Target of between 15 million and 30 million tonnes. Based on current estimates, the target contains the potential for up to 58 million ounces of silver-equivalent mineralisation.

    The company plans to undertake additional drilling and metallurgical testing during the year as it works toward defining a maiden mineral resource estimate and advancing the project toward a future mining licence application.

    Strategic Partnerships Continue to Advance Key Projects

    Alongside Mushima North, Tertiary continued to make progress across its wider Zambian portfolio through partnerships with major industry participants.

    At the Konkola West copper project, partner KoBold completed two deep exploration holes and elected to advance the project into its second development stage.

    Under the revised joint venture framework, KoBold can invest up to US$6 million in further exploration and development activities, a move that management views as a strong endorsement of the project’s potential.

    Meanwhile, discussions and due diligence activities remain ongoing with First Quantum Minerals regarding the Mukai project.

    Funding Strengthens Exploration Capacity

    To support its exploration programmes, Tertiary secured several funding initiatives during and after the reporting period.

    The company completed a £100,000 share placing and secured a £450,000 convertible loan during the period.

    Following the period end, Tertiary raised an additional £1 million through an equity financing.

    Management believes the additional capital will provide the resources needed to accelerate exploration, resource definition and project development across its Zambian assets.

    However, the funding measures also introduce the potential for shareholder dilution as the company continues to advance its growth strategy.

    Financial Performance Reflects Exploration Stage Business Model

    Tertiary reported a pre-tax loss of £328,231 for the period and finished the half year with a relatively modest cash position.

    As an exploration-focused company, it continues to operate without production revenue and remains dependent on external funding to support project advancement.

    While losses and negative operating cash flow continue to weigh on the investment case, management remains focused on creating long-term value through exploration success and strategic partnerships.

    Outlook Supported by Project Momentum

    The company’s outlook continues to be influenced by ongoing losses and negative cash flow generation, while technical indicators remain weak, with the share price trading below key moving averages.

    However, Tertiary benefits from a debt-free balance sheet, providing a degree of financial flexibility as it progresses its exploration activities.

    The advancement of Mushima North, increased investment from KoBold and continued engagement with First Quantum provide important milestones that could support future value creation if exploration success continues.

    More about Tertiary Minerals

    Tertiary Minerals plc is an AIM-listed mineral exploration company focused on developing silver, copper and zinc projects in Zambia.

    Its portfolio is centred on the Mushima North silver-copper-zinc project, alongside the Konkola West and Mukai copper projects. The company is advancing these assets through strategic partnerships with KoBold Metals and First Quantum Minerals while pursuing further exploration and resource development opportunities across its Zambian portfolio.

  • Angus Energy Increases Production as Financial Restructuring Moves Toward Completion (ANGS)

    Angus Energy Increases Production as Financial Restructuring Moves Toward Completion (ANGS)

    Production Growth Drives Improved Operational Performance

    Angus Energy (LSE:ANGS) reported interim results for the six months ended 31 March 2026, highlighting stronger production across its core UK assets following operational improvements.

    Output at the company’s flagship Saltfleetby Gas Field increased by 30% after successful well intervention work, while production at the Brockham Oil Field nearly doubled following optimisation initiatives designed to improve field performance.

    The higher production levels helped generate revenue of £9.5 million, EBITDA of £5.3 million and operating profit of £1.5 million during the period. However, the group reported a modest net loss after accounting for financing costs and derivative-related movements.

    Balance Sheet Restructuring Nears Final Stages

    Angus continued to make progress on a major restructuring of its financial obligations, a process designed to improve liquidity, strengthen the balance sheet and support the restoration of trading in the company’s shares.

    Management believes the restructuring will provide a more stable financial platform from which to pursue future growth opportunities and enhance long-term shareholder value.

    Extended Hedging Strategy Provides Cash Flow Visibility

    The company has also expanded its gas hedging programme through to June 2027, covering approximately 12.3 million therms at an average price of around 100 pence per therm.

    The hedging strategy is intended to provide greater cash flow certainty while protecting a significant portion of future production from commodity price volatility.

    At the same time, Angus retains exposure to potential upside in energy markets, with approximately 56% of forecast production remaining unhedged.

    Positioned to Benefit from Stronger Gas Markets

    With gas prices showing signs of recovery amid ongoing energy security concerns, Angus believes it is well placed to benefit from a supportive market backdrop.

    The company intends to combine operational improvements with a strengthened financial position as it evaluates future expansion opportunities, including potential mergers and acquisitions.

    Management views the current strategy as a platform for both organic growth and broader corporate development initiatives.

    Outlook Remains Mixed Despite Operational Progress

    Angus Energy’s outlook continues to be influenced by financial challenges, including pressure on revenue and profitability trends.

    Technical indicators currently suggest broadly neutral market momentum, while valuation metrics remain constrained by negative earnings.

    However, recent operational achievements, ongoing restructuring efforts and strategic initiatives provide reasons for optimism regarding the company’s longer-term growth prospects.

    More about Angus Energy

    Angus Energy plc is an AIM-listed independent oil and gas producer and the UK’s largest onshore gas producer.

    The company owns a 100% interest in the Saltfleetby Gas Field, majority interests in the Brockham and Lidsey oil fields, and a 25% stake in the Balcombe licence. Angus operates all of these assets and continues to pursue growth through both operational development and strategic diversification.

    Its business is focused on conventional oil and gas production, supplying domestic energy markets while seeking opportunities for both organic expansion and acquisitions. The company’s strategy centres on operational efficiency, reservoir development and disciplined financial management to strengthen its position within the UK energy sector.

  • Plus500 Expands 24/5 CFD Trading Offering Across Stocks and ETFs (PLUS)

    Plus500 Expands 24/5 CFD Trading Offering Across Stocks and ETFs (PLUS)

    Extended-Hours Trading Now Available for Retail Clients

    Plus500 (LSE:PLUS) has launched 24/5 CFD trading on a selection of stocks and exchange-traded funds, providing retail investors with access to markets throughout the trading week via the company’s proprietary trading platforms.

    The initiative reflects the growing popularity of extended-hours trading among retail participants who increasingly want the flexibility to react to earnings reports, central bank announcements and other major market events outside traditional exchange operating hours.

    SpaceX Added to the Expanded Trading Line-Up

    As part of the new offering, Plus500 has introduced 24/5 CFD trading on SpaceX, adding one of the market’s most closely followed companies to its range of available instruments.

    The move further supports the group’s efforts to broaden its exposure to high-growth areas of investor interest, including U.S. prediction markets and other emerging trading segments.

    Management indicated that the list of eligible stocks and ETFs will be expanded progressively, with future additions guided by customer demand, liquidity conditions and operational requirements.

    Balancing Product Expansion with Market Stability

    While increasing market accessibility, Plus500 said it will take a measured approach to expanding the service in order to maintain execution quality and effective risk controls.

    The company aims to strike a balance between meeting client demand and ensuring sufficient liquidity, while preserving the stable trading environment supported by its institutional-grade technology infrastructure and risk-management framework.

    Strong Fundamentals Continue to Support the Business

    Plus500’s outlook remains underpinned by high profitability, strong cash generation and a low-leverage balance sheet.

    Recent management commentary highlighted the group’s robust cash position and continued strategic progress, reinforcing confidence in its long-term growth prospects.

    Technical indicators remain constructive, pointing to a well-established positive trend, while valuation metrics suggest the shares are fairly valued rather than significantly discounted.

    More about Plus500

    Plus500 is a global multi-asset fintech company that operates proprietary technology-driven trading platforms offering contracts for difference, share dealing services, and futures and options on futures products.

    The group is regulated across multiple jurisdictions and provides access to more than 2,500 financial instruments, including equities, commodities, indices, foreign exchange and cryptocurrencies. Operating in more than 60 countries and over 30 languages, Plus500 is a constituent of both the FTSE 250 and STOXX Europe 600 indices.

  • Should we expect oil at $60 per barrel now? 

    Should we expect oil at $60 per barrel now? 

    Four months into the conflict between the US and Iran, there finally seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel, although it looks more like a flickering flashlight. One day, sides are signing a memorandum of understanding, the next, the Iranian delegation walks out of talks with the US after new threats from Trump.

    Still, looking at oil prices, the S&P 500, and the Dow Jones indices, markets seem to be leaning toward a more positive outcome. And indeed, reports of a partial easing of the naval blockade on Iranian ports and the reopening of parts of the Strait of Hormuz, along with claims that three fully loaded oil tankers linked to India passed through, seem to back that up.

    But what about the delayed demand effect? Shouldn’t that be supporting prices?

    In theory, yes. According to Kpler, around 1.15 billion barrels of supply were disrupted during the war. At the same time, countries drew heavily on strategic reserves to avoid buying at peak prices. US crude inventories, for example, fell to 340.3 million barrels, the lowest since 1983.

    On the other hand, oil bears argue that some flows may still have been moving covertly along the Omani coast even during the blockade. On top of that, the UAE’s exit from OPEC+ adds long-term supply-side upside pressure, and if sanctions on Iran are lifted, production could ramp up quickly.

    And most importantly, even the IEA expects that by 2027 supply will rise by about 8 million barrels per day while demand grows by only around 2 million, implying a potential surplus of more than 5 million barrels per day.

    The thing is that OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais said the IEA’s numbers are not grounded in reality. It is also worth noting that any US-Iran deal could still fall apart.

    In the end, time will tell who is right. For now, one should keep in mind that the surge in energy prices from the Hormuz disruption has already fed through the system, forcing central banks to tighten policy, potentially including the Fed. 

  • Wall Street Futures Edge Higher as Diplomatic Progress and Lower Oil Prices Support Sentiment: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq

    Wall Street Futures Edge Higher as Diplomatic Progress and Lower Oil Prices Support Sentiment: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq

    U.S. equity futures traded modestly higher on Monday, pointing to a positive start for Wall Street as investors welcomed signs of progress in negotiations between the United States and Iran and a further decline in crude oil prices.

    The upbeat tone follows strong gains recorded in the previous session, although market participants remain cautious as they wait for additional evidence that the emerging peace process can hold.

    Oil Retreat Boosts Investor Confidence

    Falling oil prices provided support for risk assets, easing concerns over inflation and the potential economic fallout from instability in the Middle East.

    The move came after officials involved in talks between Washington and Tehran reported encouraging developments during discussions held in Switzerland.

    Lower energy costs are viewed as a positive for households, businesses and financial markets, while also reducing pressure on central banks to maintain restrictive monetary policies.

    Negotiators Highlight Positive Developments

    Vice President JD Vance described the discussions as having achieved “great progress” despite a “little bit of threatening” and a “little bit of whining.”

    He also referred to Iran’s decision to allow inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency back into the country as a “major milestone for the American people, and the first step in permanently denuclearizing or permanently ending a nuclear weapons program in Iran.”

    Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan echoed that assessment, stating that “encouraging progress has been made” during the negotiations.

    Inflation Data Remains Key Focus

    While diplomatic developments helped improve sentiment, investors are still looking for firmer confirmation that the agreement can be sustained.

    Attention is also turning toward upcoming U.S. inflation data, which could provide fresh clues regarding the future direction of Federal Reserve policy.

    The absence of major economic releases at the start of the week may keep trading volumes relatively subdued.

    Markets Build on Last Week’s Rally

    Wall Street ended the previous session on a strong note, recovering from late weakness and extending gains throughout the day.

    The Nasdaq advanced 1.9% to 26,517.93, while the S&P 500 gained 1.1% to 7,500.58. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose a more modest 0.1% to 51,564.70.

    For the holiday-shortened week, the Nasdaq climbed 2.4%, the S&P 500 gained 0.9% and the Dow added 0.7%.

    Preliminary Agreement Raises Hopes for Lasting Peace

    Investor optimism was supported by confirmation that the United States and Iran had signed a preliminary framework agreement aimed at ending the conflict in the region.

    The memorandum of understanding signed by President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian establishes a 60-day negotiation process intended to secure a permanent settlement.

    Initial measures include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports.

    Falling Crude Prices Seen as Economic Tailwind

    Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, emphasized the broader significance of lower oil prices.

    “That has huge significance for inflation and interest rates, as well as business, consumer and investor sentiment,” said Mould. “It takes the pressure off industries and households and is hugely positive for global economic growth.”

    Intel Leads Technology Rally

    Technology shares received an additional boost from Intel (NASDAQ:INTC), which surged 10.6% after President Trump said Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) had agreed to collaborate with the chipmaker on semiconductor design and manufacturing in the United States.

    The announcement helped propel the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index 6.4% higher to a record close.

    Labour Market Remains Resilient

    Recent economic data indicated continued stability in the U.S. labour market.

    Initial jobless claims fell to 226,000 in the week ended June 13, down from a revised 230,000 the previous week and broadly in line with expectations.

    The figures reinforced the view that employment conditions remain relatively strong.

    Airlines Benefit from Lower Fuel Costs

    Airline stocks were among the strongest performers as lower oil prices improved the outlook for fuel expenses.

    The NYSE Arca Airline Index gained 3.8%, while computer hardware and housing-related stocks also posted notable advances.

    By contrast, energy and gold shares underperformed as investors shifted toward more growth-oriented sectors.

  • European Markets Trade Mixed as Investors Monitor Middle East Talks and UK Political Developments: DAX, CAC, FTSE100

    European Markets Trade Mixed as Investors Monitor Middle East Talks and UK Political Developments: DAX, CAC, FTSE100

    European equities were largely directionless on Monday as investors assessed ongoing diplomatic developments in the Middle East while also reacting to political uncertainty in the United Kingdom following the resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

    FTSE 100 Advances Despite Political Uncertainty

    The UK’s FTSE 100 Index outperformed its continental peers, rising 0.3% from Friday’s close of 10,363.27. The benchmark was recently trading at 10,390.43 after moving within a range of 10,345.75 to 10,394.60 during the session.

    Market participants continued to evaluate the potential implications of the upcoming Labour leadership contest following Starmer’s departure.

    French Stocks Under Pressure

    France’s CAC 40 Index declined 0.8% to 8,358.28, having traded between 8,435.81 and 8,353.06 during the day.

    Among individual stocks, STMicroelectronics (BIT:STMMI) (EU:STMPA) led the gainers with an advance of 1.87%, while Hermes International recorded the sharpest decline, falling 5.3%.

    Only eight of the index’s 40 constituents were trading higher.

    DAX Slips as Volkswagen Weighs on Performance

    Germany’s DAX fell 0.2% to 24,931.96, compared with Friday’s closing level of 24,985.82.

    The index fluctuated between 24,896.19 and 25,082.78 during the session.

    Infineon Technologies posted the strongest performance, climbing 4.9%, while Volkswagen was the weakest performer, dropping 2.8%.

    As in France, only eight of the DAX’s 40 members remained in positive territory.

    Swiss Market Moves Lower

    Switzerland’s benchmark Stock Market Index also traded lower, falling 0.3% from its previous close of 13,774.02 to 13,734.30.

    The session range stood between 13,707.30 and 13,773.80.

    Lonza Group led the gainers with a rise of 0.9%, while Holcim posted the largest decline, losing 2.4%.

    Stoxx 50 Holds Steady

    The pan-European Stoxx 50 index remained broadly unchanged at 6,293.86.

    During the session, the benchmark traded between 6,280.95 and 6,314.66, reflecting the cautious mood across regional markets.

    Currency Markets Remain Relatively Stable

    In foreign exchange markets, the U.S. dollar was little changed as investors weighed signs of progress in negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

    The euro weakened slightly, with EUR/USD down 0.10% at 1.1458, while GBP/USD edged 0.03% higher to 1.3238.

    Meanwhile, the dollar gained 0.10% against the Swiss franc, with USD/CHF trading at 0.8079.

    Investors Continue to Track Geopolitical Risks

    European markets ended Friday mostly lower as traders reacted to mixed signals surrounding U.S.-Iran negotiations and renewed tensions between Israel and Lebanon.

    Those geopolitical developments remain a key focus for investors as they assess the potential impact on global growth, energy markets and monetary policy expectations.

  • Market Open: Ocado Succession Plans, EasyJet Bid Rejection

    Market Open: Ocado Succession Plans, EasyJet Bid Rejection

    FTSE 100 slips as investors assess UK political uncertainty. Ocado confirms succession plans while easyJet rejects a takeover bid. Brent crude rises.

    Market Overview

    UK markets were marginally weaker at the open, with the FTSE 100 slipping 0.03 per cent to 10,363.58. Across Europe, the Euronext 100 edged 0.03 per cent higher and Germany’s DAX gained 0.04 per cent. Investors remained cautious as political uncertainty surrounding the UK government resurfaced, while European markets assessed developments following the first round of US-Iran talks.

    US markets were closed on Friday.

    Commodity markets reflected a mixed tone. Brent crude advanced as renewed geopolitical tensions and fresh US rhetoric towards Iran supported oil prices. Gold eased slightly while copper moved higher. Natural gas was little changed. Sterling strengthened against the US dollar and Australian dollar but weakened against the euro, Swiss franc and Japanese yen. Bitcoin was unchanged against sterling.


    Market Numbers

    FTSE 100: Down (-0.03%), 10,363.58

    Euronext 100: Up (+0.03%), 1,927.40

    DAX: Up (+0.04%), 25,035.93

    NASDAQ: Closed

    S&P 500: Closed


    In the Headlines

    Leadership Planning – Ocado Group (LSE:OCDO)

    Ocado confirmed that its board and chief executive are engaged in ongoing succession planning following market speculation about future leadership arrangements. The update is intended to reassure investors that long-term governance and continuity plans remain in place.

    Bid Rejected – easyJet (LSE:EZJ)

    easyJet shares rose after the airline rejected a third takeover proposal from Castlelake valued at 625p per share. The board said the offer significantly undervalued the business, highlighting confidence in the company’s strategy and future prospects.


    Currencies (vs GBP)

    USD: Down (-0.02%), $1.3208

    CHF: Up (+0.01%), Fr.1.0673

    EUR: Up (+0.03%), €1.1523

    JPY: Up (+0.01%), ¥213.22

    AUD: Down (-0.03%), $1.8861

    Bitcoin (BTC/GBP): Up, £47,898.58


    Commodities

    Copper: Up

    Gold: Down

    Brent Crude: Up

    Natural Gas: Up