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European stock indices moved higher on Thursday morning as investors sifted through a heavy flow of corporate earnings while monitoring developments on the trade front.

As of 07:15 GMT, Germany’s DAX was up 0.7%, France’s CAC 40 rose 1.2%, and the FTSE 100 in the UK gained 0.4%.

The broader mood across European markets remained cautious earlier in the week, after U.S. President Donald Trump signaled plans to impose 30% tariffs on EU imports starting in August. However, his comments on Wednesday suggested that a breakthrough in trade negotiations may be within reach. Trump said a deal with India was nearing completion and indicated that an agreement with Europe was also possible.

These remarks coincided with EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic’s trip to Washington, where talks were scheduled regarding the looming tariffs.

Publicis Raises Outlook; Corporate Results Pour In

Thursday’s session featured a flood of quarterly earnings from major European firms. Notably, Publicis (EU:PUB) raised its full-year organic growth target after posting stronger-than-expected Q2 results, lifting investor sentiment.

Novartis (NYSE:NVS) reported a 24% jump in net income for the second quarter, driven by solid sales of key treatments like Kisqali and Entresto, particularly in the U.S. market.

On the downside, Volvo Car (USOTC:VOLAF) saw its adjusted operating profit drop sharply in Q2, citing continued demand weakness and tariff-related headwinds.

Nordea Bank (TG:04Q) also posted a 6% drop in quarterly net profit, as it faced pressure from low interest rates and persistent market volatility.

Meanwhile, ABB (TG:ABJ) achieved a record in quarterly order intake, supported by rising demand in the U.S. and strong sales of infrastructure products used in AI-related data centers.

Earlier, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM) reported robust Q2 earnings, with net profit rising sharply thanks to surging global demand for AI chips—results that buoyed sentiment in the global tech space.

Attention will also turn to the U.S., where several high-profile earnings are due, including from streaming platform Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX).

Inflation Data and Wages in the Spotlight

Later in the day, markets await the final reading of Eurozone CPI for June. The report is expected to reaffirm inflation at 2.0% year-on-year, ticking up from 1.9% in May.

In the UK, new data showed that average wage growth excluding bonuses hit 5.0% in the three months to May, slightly above expectations. However, the broader labor market showed signs of cooling.

Oil Stabilizes After Steep Decline

Crude oil prices found some footing on Thursday after three days of losses, supported in part by encouraging economic indicators from top global oil consumers.

By 03:15 ET, Brent crude was marginally lower, down 0.1% at $68.44 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was flat at $66.38.

Markets were also buoyed by data from China, the world’s largest oil importer, which showed stronger-than-expected economic growth. Meanwhile, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported a sharper-than-forecast drop in crude inventories, with stockpiles falling by 3.9 million barrels last week to 422.2 million—a sign of robust refinery activity and rising demand.

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.

Gore Street Energy Storage Fund plc (LSE:GSF) announced its audited results for the year ending 31 March 2025, showcasing significant operational growth. The company more than doubled its energised capacity to 921.4 MWh, secured long-term revenue contracts, and implemented AI-driven trading strategies that outperformed industry standards. Despite a slight decline in NAV per share, Gore Street generated $14 million in annual revenue from a California-based project and plans to issue a special dividend. Focused on enhancing shareholder value, the company is conducting strategic reviews and refining capital allocation to strengthen its market position and support the global clean energy transition.

Gore Street benefits from a strong balance sheet and positive corporate developments, including capacity expansion and strategic asset sales. However, challenges persist with revenue stability and profitability, as indicated by a negative P/E ratio. The stock’s positive momentum and attractive dividend yield make it appealing to income-focused investors, though operational improvements remain crucial.

About Gore Street Energy Storage

Gore Street Energy Storage Fund plc is an internationally diversified fund specializing in energy storage solutions. It manages assets across multiple grid networks and regulatory environments, leveraging AI-powered trading models to optimize revenue generation.

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.

KEFI Gold and Copper plc (LSE:KEFI) has made notable strides with its Tulu Kapi Gold Project in Ethiopia, successfully meeting critical milestones to move forward with project initiation and progressing financing efforts. The company targets to begin gold production by 2027, anticipating a first-year net operating cash flow of around $300 million. Meanwhile, in Saudi Arabia, KEFI’s joint venture, Gold and Minerals Limited, has expanded both its mineral resource base and exploration territory, aiming to evolve into a self-sustaining exploration entity. Positioned strategically, KEFI seeks to significantly boost gold output across its projects in both nations.

About KEFI Minerals

KEFI Gold and Copper plc specializes in the exploration and development of gold and copper assets, with core projects in Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia. Its portfolio includes the Tulu Kapi Gold Project and JV projects in Saudi Arabia such as Jibal Qutman and the Hawiah copper and gold project.

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.

Iofina plc (LSE:IOF) has announced a record output of 305.5 metric tonnes of crystalline iodine for the first half of 2025, representing a 10.6% rise compared to the same period last year. The recent startup of their IO#11 plant is expected to further increase production in the latter half of the year, with forecasted volumes between 400 and 440 metric tonnes. The company continues to benefit from robust market demand and favorable iodine pricing, alongside maintaining a strong safety performance.

About Iofina plc

Iofina plc is a fully integrated producer of iodine and specialty chemicals, ranking as the second-largest iodine producer in North America. Operating through its divisions, Iofina Resources and Iofina Chemical, the company leverages advanced technology to optimize its extraction and manufacturing processes.

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.

Wise PLC (LSE:WISE) reported a strong start to the fiscal year with a 24% year-over-year increase in quarterly cross-border volume, reaching £41.2 billion, and a 31% rise in customer holdings to £22.9 billion. The company remains focused on long-term growth, aiming to become the leading network for global money transfers. Recent strategic moves include launching Wise Business in the Philippines and forming partnerships with Raiffeisen Bank and UniCredit to enhance international transfer services in Europe. Additionally, Wise plans to dual list its shares in the US and UK, a move expected to accelerate its mission and align stakeholder interests.

Wise PLC’s strong financial performance, particularly in profitability and cash flow, significantly boosts its stock score. The positive earnings call further supports the score, with substantial growth in customer metrics and strategic initiatives. Despite mixed technical signals and valuation considerations, the company’s robust financial health and promising strategic direction position it favorably.

More about Wise PLC Class A

Wise is a global technology company focused on creating efficient ways to move and manage money worldwide. Through its Wise Account and Wise Business services, it enables individuals and businesses to hold multiple currencies, transfer funds internationally, and spend money abroad. Founded in 2011, Wise has become one of the fastest-growing, profitable tech companies, processing over £145 billion in cross-border transactions in fiscal year 2025.

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.

Central Asia Metals Plc (LSE:CAML) has increased its cash bid to A$0.065 per share in the proposed acquisition of New World Resources Limited (NWR), valuing the target at around A$240 million. This enhanced offer is part of a board-endorsed off-market takeover, which CAML has now declared unconditional. The bid remains open for acceptance until August 18, 2025, unless extended, and follows a rival offer from Kinterra priced slightly higher at A$0.066 per share. The deal aims to bolster CAML’s market standing and broaden its operational reach.

CAML continues to display strong financial health, supported by solid profitability and a robust balance sheet, alongside an attractive valuation. However, some weak technical signals reflect a cautious market outlook. The company’s strategic acquisition approach and operational consistency underpin its positive medium-term prospects.

About Central Asia Metals

Central Asia Metals Plc is a UK-listed producer of base metals with operations spanning Europe and Central Asia. The company owns the Sasa underground zinc-lead mine in North Macedonia and the Kounrad SX-EW copper project in Kazakhstan, while also pursuing exploration projects in Kazakhstan and Scotland. CAML has been publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange since 2010.

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.

Ocado Group plc (LSE:OCDO) has announced its interim financial results for the 26-week period ending 1 June 2025. The full report is available on the company’s website and has been filed with the Financial Conduct Authority’s National Storage Mechanism. This disclosure underscores Ocado’s commitment to transparency and regulatory adherence, which may influence investor sentiment and stakeholder confidence.

While the company continues to face notable financial pressures and weak technical signals, encouraging insights shared during the recent earnings call, alongside ongoing corporate developments, provide a cautiously optimistic outlook for future progress. Operational and financial performance remain critical focus areas as Ocado works toward strengthening its position.

About Ocado Group

Ocado Group plc is a leading player in the online grocery sector, specializing in technology and logistics solutions that power online retail. The company is renowned for its cutting-edge automation and robotics innovations that enhance grocery delivery services primarily across the UK, while expanding its technology offerings internationally.

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.

Avacta Group plc (LSE:AVCT) has successfully secured £3.25 million through a conditional placing of new ordinary shares, aimed at covering a quarterly repayment on its unsecured convertible bond. This financing step is designed to strengthen the company’s financial flexibility as it advances through a critical commercial stage marked by several upcoming catalysts.

The placing, managed by Zeus Capital Limited, was conducted at a discount to the current share price and offers a relatively less dilutive alternative for shareholders compared to other funding options. This capital injection positions Avacta to further leverage its pre|CISION® technology platform, enhancing its competitive stance and potential value for investors.

While Avacta faces significant financial pressures and valuation challenges, ongoing clinical progress and strategic corporate developments offer some grounds for cautious optimism. The company’s financial stability and market hurdles remain key areas to monitor.

About Avacta Group plc

Avacta Group plc is a clinical-stage life sciences company dedicated to pioneering innovative cancer therapies. Its flagship pre|CISION® platform aims to deliver potent treatments directly to tumors, reducing collateral damage to healthy cells. The company’s expanding oncology pipeline includes peptide drug conjugates and Affimer® drug conjugates, positioning it for growth in targeted cancer treatment 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.

Ilika plc (LSE:IKA) has released its full-year results for the period ending April 30, 2025, showcasing meaningful progress in advancing and commercializing its solid-state battery technologies. The company has transitioned manufacturing of its Stereax battery range to Cirtec Medical LLC and achieved significant strides with its Goliath battery project, including launching P1 prototypes and securing crucial funding to drive further development.

Supported by a recent £4.2 million capital raise and government grant awards, Ilika anticipates growth in product-related revenues and increased commercial partnerships over the coming months. These advancements strategically position the company to tap into expanding markets within medical devices and electric vehicles.

Despite ongoing financial pressures and valuation challenges weighing on its overall rating, Ilika’s successful fundraising and technological progress provide a cautiously optimistic outlook.

About Ilika plc

Ilika plc focuses on pioneering solid-state battery technology, aiming to deliver safer, higher-performance energy storage solutions for applications where traditional batteries fall short—due to limitations in safety, charge speed, energy density, or longevity. Utilizing ceramic-based lithium-ion tech, Ilika offers two main product lines: Stereax, designed for miniature medical implants and industrial wireless sensors, and Goliath, a large-format battery intended for electric vehicles and cordless appliances.

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.

Zephyr Energy (LSE:ZPHR) has reported notable advancements in its Paradox Basin project located in Utah, following a successful production test and a £10.5 million equity raise. The company is progressing with key gas infrastructure development, including outfitting production sites and preparing for pipeline connections, which could lead to significant monthly revenue streams.

In addition, Zephyr is poised to finalize a US$7.3 million acquisition of working interests across more than 400 wells within the Rocky Mountain basins. This transaction will strengthen Zephyr’s strategic position, adding approximately 600,000 barrels of oil equivalent in proven and probable (2P) reserves and boosting production by around 400 barrels of oil equivalent per day. The expanded asset base offers promising opportunities for enhanced production and future drilling activity.

While Zephyr Energy continues to face challenges related to profitability and valuation, its recent corporate developments and strategic alliances suggest potential for growth ahead.

About Zephyr Energy

Zephyr Energy plc is a technology-driven oil and gas company dedicated to responsible resource development in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States. With operations spanning over 46,000 gross acres in Utah’s Paradox Basin and interests in producing wells in the Williston Basin, the company prioritizes both environmental stewardship and strong returns for its investors.

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.