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  • HICL unveils strategy to deliver higher long-term returns through portfolio expansion (HICL)

    HICL unveils strategy to deliver higher long-term returns through portfolio expansion (HICL)

    HICL Infrastructure PLC (LSE:HICL) has set out the next stage of its long-term strategy, targeting medium-term total shareholder returns of more than 10%, compared with the 8.5% net asset value (NAV) total return it has delivered since listing. The company plans to continue transforming its portfolio from one heavily weighted towards UK public-private partnership (PPP) assets into a more diversified international infrastructure portfolio.

    The group also reaffirmed its progressive dividend policy and maintained dividend guidance for the 2027 and 2028 financial years, highlighting its continued focus on delivering stable income while positioning the portfolio to benefit from long-term infrastructure investment trends.

    New asset mix designed to drive stronger NAV growth

    As part of the strategy, HICL intends to increase the contribution of NAV growth by combining income-generating investments with growth opportunities and a greater allocation to higher-return “enhancer” assets.

    Over time, enhancer assets could account for as much as 20% of the portfolio, with investments selected within a disciplined risk management framework. Management believes the broader mix of assets will improve long-term returns while maintaining the defensive characteristics of the portfolio.

    Self-funded investment plan prioritises shareholder value

    HICL also outlined a self-funded capital allocation programme worth around £1.6 billion over the next five years. The investment plan will be financed through operating cash flows and asset recycling, avoiding the need for additional equity issuance or increased borrowing.

    Capital will be allocated between dividend payments, new investments and share buybacks, with every deployment decision measured against the returns available from repurchasing the company’s own shares. Management said this approach is intended to maximise shareholder value in a higher interest rate environment.

    Strong financial position underpins outlook

    HICL continues to benefit from a debt-free balance sheet, positive free cash flow and an attractive valuation supported by a relatively low earnings multiple and a high dividend yield. Technical indicators also remain favourable, although momentum measures are approaching elevated levels. Revenue volatility remains the principal fundamental risk facing the company.

    More about HICL Infrastructure PLC

    HICL Infrastructure PLC is a London-listed investment company managed by InfraRed Capital Partners, specialising in core infrastructure assets across the UK and international markets. Its portfolio consists primarily of operational infrastructure investments that generate long-term, inflation-linked cash flows from essential public and private sector assets.

    The company’s strategy focuses on delivering sustainable income and capital growth through a diversified portfolio spanning sectors such as transport, energy, healthcare, education and communications infrastructure. HICL aims to provide shareholders with stable long-term returns while investing in assets that support essential services and economic development.

  • Morgan Sindall to publish half-year 2026 results on 23 July (MGNS)

    Morgan Sindall to publish half-year 2026 results on 23 July (MGNS)

    Morgan Sindall Group (LSE:MGNS) has confirmed that it will release its results for the six months ended 30 June 2026 on 23 July 2026. The half-year update will be published through the London Stock Exchange’s Regulatory News Service and made available on the company’s investor relations website, giving shareholders and analysts an overview of trading performance during the first half of the financial year.

    Analyst presentation scheduled alongside results

    On the day of the results announcement, Morgan Sindall will host an in-person presentation for analysts at the London Stock Exchange beginning at 9:00am. Attendance will require advance registration in line with venue security procedures.

    The presentation will provide management with an opportunity to discuss the group’s financial performance, current market conditions and business outlook in greater detail, while continuing its regular engagement with the investment community.

    Solid financial position supports outlook

    Morgan Sindall’s investment outlook continues to be supported by consistent revenue growth, improving earnings and a balanced capital structure with manageable leverage. Longer-term technical indicators also remain constructive, reflecting the company’s underlying operational strength.

    While the valuation remains reasonable and is complemented by a moderate dividend yield, relatively thin operating margins and fluctuations in cash flow continue to temper the overall investment profile.

    More about Morgan Sindall

    Morgan Sindall Group plc is a UK construction and regeneration company providing partnerships, fit-out, construction and infrastructure services across the public and private sectors. The business delivers projects spanning housing, education, healthcare, commercial property and transport infrastructure throughout the UK.

    The group operates through a diversified portfolio of specialist businesses, combining long-term partnerships with public sector clients and private sector expertise to deliver construction, regeneration and interior fit-out projects across a broad range of end markets.

  • Barratt Redrow appoints EY as new external auditor following competitive tender (BTRW)

    Barratt Redrow appoints EY as new external auditor following competitive tender (BTRW)

    Barratt Redrow plc (LSE:BTRW) has appointed Ernst & Young LLP (EY) as its next external auditor after completing a formal competitive tender process overseen by the company’s Audit and Risk Committee. Subject to shareholder approval at the 2027 Annual General Meeting, EY will assume the role from the financial year ending 2 July 2028.

    Auditor transition follows UK governance requirements

    The appointment forms part of the UK’s mandatory audit tendering and auditor rotation requirements, which require listed companies to periodically review and refresh their external audit arrangements.

    Deloitte LLP, which has served as Barratt Redrow’s external auditor since 2007 and was reappointed following a tender in 2017, will remain in place for the 2026 and 2027 financial years. This phased transition is intended to provide continuity before EY formally takes over the audit engagement.

    Strong fundamentals offset by weaker technical picture

    Barratt Redrow continues to benefit from a strong balance sheet, healthy revenue growth and an attractive valuation, supported by a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.2 and a dividend yield of 6.68%.

    However, these strengths are tempered by weaker technical indicators, with the shares trading below key long-term moving averages and momentum signals indicating an oversold market. Recent deterioration in cash flow also remains a factor for investors to monitor.

    More about Barratt Redrow

    Barratt Redrow plc is one of the UK’s largest residential property developers, building and selling new homes across England, Scotland and Wales. The company develops a broad range of housing projects, from affordable homes to premium residential developments, serving first-time buyers, families and existing homeowners.

    Through its nationwide land portfolio and large-scale development pipeline, Barratt Redrow plays a significant role in supporting UK housing supply while focusing on quality construction, sustainability and long-term shareholder returns.

  • Braemar reiterates FY27 confidence as leadership transition begins (BMS)

    Braemar reiterates FY27 confidence as leadership transition begins (BMS)

    Braemar (LSE:BMS) said the positive trading momentum achieved during the second half of the previous financial year has continued into the opening months of FY27, with the board remaining confident of delivering profitable growth broadly in line with market expectations.

    According to company-compiled consensus forecasts, the market expects Braemar to generate revenue of approximately £139.7 million and underlying operating profit of £14.2 million for the financial year, reflecting resilient performance despite ongoing uncertainty across global shipping and energy markets.

    Executive leadership changes take effect

    Alongside its trading update, Braemar confirmed a planned change in senior leadership. Grant Foley will succeed as Group Chief Executive after serving as Group Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer.

    Current Group CEO James Gundy will step down from the board to concentrate on shipbroking activities, while non-executive director Catriona Valentine will also leave the board following the company’s annual general meeting. The changes form part of a broader governance transition as Braemar prepares for its next phase of development under new executive leadership.

    Financial resilience supports outlook

    Braemar continues to benefit from a solid financial position, supported by moderate leverage and consistently positive free cash flow. However, lower net profitability and reduced return on equity during 2026 remain areas for investors to monitor.

    Technical indicators remain constructive, with the share price trading above key moving averages, although the company’s relatively high earnings multiple may limit valuation appeal. Recent earnings commentary also pointed to a balanced outlook, with short-term profit pressures offset by an improving order book, continued business diversification and increased balance sheet flexibility.

    More about Braemar Plc

    Braemar Plc is a London-listed shipbroking and maritime services group providing chartering, shipping investment and risk management advice to clients operating across the global shipping and energy industries. The company combines specialist market expertise with advisory services designed to help customers navigate complex and cyclical international shipping markets.

    In addition to its core shipbroking operations, Braemar provides consulting, corporate finance and risk management services, supporting clients across the maritime sector with solutions focused on operational performance, investment opportunities and long-term value creation.

  • Hamak replaces convertible debt with £1.66 million loan to strengthen funding structure (HAMA)

    Hamak replaces convertible debt with £1.66 million loan to strengthen funding structure (HAMA)

    Hamak Strategy Limited (LSE:HAMA) has agreed revised financing terms with institutional investor Yorkville Advisors, replacing the outstanding balance of its previous £2.5 million convertible loan note with a new £1.66 million non-convertible loan facility. The refinancing removes the potential for equity conversion while retaining a 4% interest rate and introducing a fixed 10-month repayment schedule.

    The revised agreement also allows the company to retain a limited portion of proceeds generated through its at-the-market equity programme, providing additional flexibility to support ongoing working capital requirements.

    Warrants align lender with long-term growth

    As part of the refinancing package, Hamak will issue 165.8 million warrants to Yorkville Advisors. The warrants have a three-year term and an exercise price of 1p per share, representing a 54% premium to the company’s latest offer price.

    If exercised in full, the warrants would generate approximately £1.66 million of additional capital. Management said the new structure removes uncertainty associated with convertible debt, improves funding visibility and aligns the lender’s long-term interests with shareholder value creation.

    Financing supports exploration and Bitcoin treasury strategy

    The revised funding arrangements provide Hamak with greater financial flexibility as it continues to develop its Akoko gold project and broader exploration portfolio across West Africa.

    The company also intends to continue executing its Bitcoin treasury strategy, with management viewing the strengthened financing structure as better positioned to support both its mining exploration activities and digital asset objectives.

    While the company’s outlook continues to be constrained by its pre-revenue status, recurring losses, ongoing cash burn and increased leverage, the removal of convertible debt represents a positive step in reducing financing uncertainty. Technical indicators remain weak, and the absence of earnings and dividend support continues to weigh on the investment case.

    More about Hamak Strategy Limited

    Hamak Strategy Limited is a UK-listed exploration company focused on developing gold assets across West Africa while also operating a Bitcoin-based treasury strategy. Its principal exploration activities include the Akoko gold project alongside a broader portfolio of mineral prospects in the region.

    By combining exposure to natural resource exploration with digital asset treasury management, Hamak offers investors a unique blend of mining and cryptocurrency-related opportunities. The company’s performance is influenced by exploration progress, commodity markets and the volatility associated with Bitcoin holdings.

  • Currys grows profits and shareholder returns as Nordics deliver strong performance (CURY)

    Currys grows profits and shareholder returns as Nordics deliver strong performance (CURY)

    Currys (LSE:CURY) delivered a strong financial performance for the year ended 2 May 2026, with group revenue increasing 6% to £9.25 billion, supported by 4% like-for-like sales growth. Adjusted profit before tax rose 18% to £191 million, while adjusted EBIT increased 13% to £255 million.

    The retailer also generated free cash flow of £157 million and finished the year with a net cash position of £176 million, despite increasing shareholder distributions and making higher pension contributions.

    UK and Nordics businesses both improve profitability

    In the UK and Ireland, like-for-like sales rose 3% as Currys continued to gain market share despite a challenging retail environment. Adjusted EBIT for the division increased to £158 million, helped by continued growth in higher-margin services, consumer credit and iD Mobile subscriptions.

    The Nordics business delivered an even stronger performance, with like-for-like revenue increasing 6% and adjusted EBIT climbing 26% on a constant currency basis to £97 million. Improving consumer confidence, tighter cost control and greater operating leverage all contributed to stronger profitability and margin expansion.

    Higher dividends and buyback backed by strong cash generation

    Currys has doubled its full-year dividend to 3.0p per share and announced a new £50 million share buyback programme, reflecting confidence in its financial position and cash generation.

    The company’s capital allocation framework targets a year-end net cash balance of at least £100 million while continuing to grow shareholder returns. Management also reiterated its objective of achieving adjusted EBIT margins of at least 3% in both the UK & Ireland and Nordic operations, while keeping annual capital expenditure below £100 million and maintaining strong free cash flow.

    Leadership transition and recurring revenue remain key priorities

    Management said trading has started positively in the new financial year and remains comfortable with current market profit expectations.

    Strategically, the company continues to focus on expanding higher-margin recurring revenue streams, including services, credit products and mobile subscriptions, with a target of reaching at least 2.8 million iD Mobile subscribers by the end of the year.

    Currys will also undergo a leadership change in August, when Nordics chief executive Fredrik Tønnesen succeeds as group CEO. He is expected to continue driving growth initiatives, including expanding the company’s B2B business, which has significantly increased its addressable market.

    The group’s improving financial performance, reduced leverage, strong free cash flow and relatively low earnings multiple continue to support its investment outlook. Although technical indicators remain positive, elevated momentum measures suggest the recent share price rally may be becoming stretched.

    More about Currys plc

    Currys plc is one of Europe’s leading retailers of electrical goods and technology products, operating across the UK, Ireland and the Nordic region. The company sells a wide range of consumer electronics, domestic appliances and connected devices through its stores and online platforms.

    Alongside its retail operations, Currys has increasingly focused on growing higher-margin recurring revenue through services, consumer credit, mobile subscriptions and business-to-business technology solutions. This strategy is designed to strengthen customer relationships, improve profitability and diversify earnings beyond traditional product sales.

  • Greencoat UK Wind highlights new independent research for long-term investors (UKW)

    Greencoat UK Wind highlights new independent research for long-term investors (UKW)

    Greencoat UK Wind (LSE:UKW) has drawn attention to a newly published research report from Kepler Trust Intelligence, offering investors a detailed analysis of the investment trust’s strategy, portfolio and long-term outlook. The report has been produced by Kepler’s investment companies team and is intended to serve as a comprehensive resource for investors evaluating the trust.

    Described as providing investment bank-quality analysis and made freely available to UK investors, the research is expected to support both existing shareholders and prospective investors assessing Greencoat UK Wind’s role within income-focused and infrastructure investment portfolios.

    Research aims to improve investor access to detailed analysis

    Kepler Partners noted that it has a disclosed commercial relationship with Greencoat UK Wind and that potential conflicts of interest may exist. The firm emphasised that the report is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or include recommendations for retail investors.

    Published through the London Stock Exchange’s Reach service, the research reflects wider efforts to improve transparency and increase access to detailed independent analysis across the UK investment trust sector, while also highlighting the risks and share price volatility associated with listed renewable infrastructure investments.

    Dividend appeal offsets operational challenges

    Greencoat UK Wind continues to benefit from an attractive valuation supported by its high dividend yield, while maintaining moderate leverage and positive operating cash flow. However, the company’s investment outlook remains constrained by weaker recent profitability, earnings volatility, reported losses and the absence of free cash flow during 2025.

    Technical indicators also remain subdued, with the shares trading below longer-term moving averages and negative momentum signals suggesting a cautious near-term outlook.

    More about Greencoat UK Wind

    Greencoat UK Wind PLC is a London-listed investment trust specialising in renewable energy infrastructure, with a primary focus on owning and operating UK wind farms. The company provides investors with exposure to a diversified portfolio of income-generating renewable energy assets designed to deliver long-term, inflation-linked cash flows.

    By investing in operational wind projects across the UK, Greencoat UK Wind aims to combine stable dividend income with participation in the country’s transition towards cleaner electricity generation, making it one of the leading listed vehicles focused on renewable infrastructure.

  • James Latham increases revenue and dividend as distribution investment supports growth (LTHM)

    James Latham increases revenue and dividend as distribution investment supports growth (LTHM)

    James Latham (LSE:LTHM) delivered resilient results for the year ended 31 March 2026, with revenue increasing 7.2% to £393.0 million and profit before tax edging up to £25.1 million despite a modest decline in gross margins. Higher timber sales volumes, particularly through the company’s lower-margin but operationally efficient LDT pack timber model, together with an improved mix of panel products, helped offset competitive market conditions and benefited from more stable product pricing.

    Strong balance sheet supports strategic investment

    Net assets rose to £232.3 million during the year, while inventories and trade receivables increased in line with higher trading activity. The group also maintained a strong cash position of £51.2 million, providing financial flexibility to continue investing in its National Distribution Centre, which is expected to become fully operational by the end of 2027.

    Reflecting confidence in the company’s financial position, the board increased the total annual dividend to 36.70p per share. James Latham is also continuing the rollout of a new warehouse management system across its depot network while preparing for potential supply chain disruption and cost pressures linked to tensions in the Middle East and the risk of higher oil-related production costs.

    Operational momentum continues into the new financial year

    Management said trading has remained positive, with improved daily sales volumes and stronger margins supported by high service levels across its 24/5 depot network. These operational strengths are helping the company win new customers and strengthen its competitive position.

    The recent administration of a major industry competitor has created some near-term pricing pressure but is also expected to generate longer-term opportunities to expand market share. James Latham believes continued investment in infrastructure and operational efficiency will further reinforce its position within the timber distribution market.

    While the company’s investment case continues to benefit from a strong balance sheet and an attractive valuation, weaker technical indicators and ongoing profitability and cash flow challenges remain considerations for investors.

    More about James Latham

    James Latham plc is a UK-based distributor of timber, panels and decorative surface materials, supplying the construction, joinery and manufacturing sectors through a nationwide network of depots. The company combines extensive product availability with efficient logistics, including its LDT pack timber operation and 24/5 depot service model, to support reliable nationwide distribution.

    A key element of its long-term strategy is the development of a new National Distribution Centre alongside continued investment in warehouse technology and supply chain efficiency. These initiatives are designed to improve customer service, increase operational capacity and support sustainable growth across its timber and panel product portfolio.

  • 3i Infrastructure strengthens balance sheet through TCR exit and Lefdal datacentre investment (3IN)

    3i Infrastructure strengthens balance sheet through TCR exit and Lefdal datacentre investment (3IN)

    3i Infrastructure plc (LSE:3IN) has begun its new financial year on a solid footing, with the majority of its portfolio companies performing in line with or ahead of expectations and generating £52 million of income during the first quarter. Across the portfolio, businesses including Infinis and Tampnet continue to progress growth initiatives, such as expanding solar generation capacity and securing new connectivity contracts, while SRL and Ionisos have both welcomed new leadership teams.

    TCR disposal delivers strong returns and boosts liquidity

    The company has completed the sale of airport ground support equipment specialist TCR, receiving proceeds of €1.1 billion. The investment generated an approximate 3.5x money multiple and a gross annual internal rate of return (IRR) of around 19%.

    Proceeds from the transaction have been used to fully repay 3i Infrastructure’s Revolving Credit Facility and cancel £300 million of accordion commitments, significantly strengthening the group’s liquidity and financial flexibility.

    Lefdal investment expands digital infrastructure portfolio

    3i Infrastructure is also progressing its investment in Norway’s Lefdal Mine Datacenter campus, where it expects to invest approximately €300 million to acquire a majority stake.

    Additional funding from co-investors will leave the company with control of around 90% of the equity and responsibility for determining the timing of any future exit. Meanwhile, a successful refinancing at Tampnet and a pro-forma cash position of £107 million following the Lefdal investment and dividend payment provide further support for the group’s capital position.

    Management remains on track to deliver its targeted 6.3% dividend growth for the 2027 financial year.

    Portfolio performance supports long-term strategy

    3i Infrastructure continues to benefit from a diversified portfolio of essential infrastructure assets backed by strong profitability and a healthy balance sheet. While recent revenue performance and uneven cash flow remain areas to monitor, the company’s attractive valuation, supported by a relatively low earnings multiple and a solid dividend yield, continues to underpin its investment case. Technical indicators remain broadly neutral.

    More about 3i Infrastructure

    3i Infrastructure plc is a Jersey-incorporated, closed-ended investment company listed on the London Stock Exchange and structured as an approved UK investment trust. The company invests in infrastructure businesses across sectors including energy, communications and essential services, with the objective of generating sustainable long-term returns for shareholders.

    Its portfolio is managed by 3i Investments plc, a subsidiary of 3i Group plc authorised by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. Through disciplined capital allocation and active ownership, 3i Infrastructure focuses on developing high-quality infrastructure assets while maintaining a strong balance sheet and supporting long-term value creation.

  • Wizz Air reports 27% June passenger growth and confirms Starlink Wi-Fi rollout (WIZZ)

    Wizz Air reports 27% June passenger growth and confirms Starlink Wi-Fi rollout (WIZZ)

    Wizz Air (LSE:WIZZ) recorded strong traffic growth in June, carrying 7.48 million passengers, a 27.2% increase compared with the same month last year. Capacity expanded by 27.5% to 8.14 million seats, while the load factor edged down slightly to 91.9%, indicating demand remained robust as the airline continued its rapid network expansion.

    Over the 12 months to June, passenger numbers increased 13.8% and capacity rose 14.4%. The airline also reached a new operational milestone by operating 1,200 flights in a single day for the first time, while maintaining strong completion rates and on-time performance.

    Starlink partnership aims to enhance passenger experience

    Wizz Air also announced plans to become the first European low-cost airline to introduce Starlink’s high-speed in-flight internet service across its fleet, with deployment scheduled to begin in early 2027.

    The addition of satellite-based connectivity is expected to strengthen the carrier’s customer offering by providing passengers with fast, low-latency internet access throughout their journey, further differentiating Wizz Air within Europe’s competitive budget airline market.

    Efficiency improves despite higher flying activity

    The airline’s environmental performance continued to improve on a per-passenger basis despite higher overall operations. Total CO2 emissions increased 15.7% year-on-year during June, broadly reflecting the expansion in flying activity.

    However, CO2 emissions per passenger kilometre declined by 3.3% to 49.5 grams, highlighting gains in operational efficiency as newer aircraft and fleet optimisation helped reduce emissions intensity.

    Growth supported by expansion despite near-term challenges

    Wizz Air continues to generate strong operating and free cash flow, supported by sustained traffic growth and an ambitious fleet expansion strategy. While recent technical indicators have improved modestly and the company’s valuation appears relatively undemanding based on earnings multiples, investors remain focused on profitability pressures, leverage and the potential impact of ongoing operational disruption.

    Management has outlined a credible multi-year fleet plan and highlighted improving liquidity, although near-term unit revenue and cost pressures continue to present challenges.

    More about Wizz Air Holdings

    Wizz Air Holdings PLC is one of Europe’s largest ultra-low-cost airlines, operating an extensive network of short-haul routes with a particular focus on Central and Eastern Europe. The carrier targets leisure travellers and those visiting friends and relatives through a low-fare business model built on high aircraft utilisation, efficient operations and dense seating configurations.

    The airline has continued to expand aggressively while investing in fleet modernisation and operational efficiency. Alongside its network growth, Wizz Air regularly reports environmental performance metrics and is investing in new technologies, including Starlink in-flight connectivity, as it seeks to strengthen its competitive position in the European aviation market.