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Quoted Micro 14 July 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
TechFinancials (TECH) has entered into an agreement to potentially acquire a 60% stake in the Dilotiko high-grade iron ore project in Kenya. The mining permit application is going through final evaluation. There has been historical exploration. This could be an open pit mine with a 20 year life. TechFinancials is issuing 20 million shares at a deemed share price of 0.25p for an option to acquire 60% of Dikotiko. Then, within 60 days 80 million shares, depending on the price will be issued to acquire 25% of project owner Dilotiko Ltd. Further shares will be issued to take the stake in the project to 60%. The deal was introduced by Gathoni Muchai Investment Company, which can appoint two directors to the TechFinancials board following the formal acquisition. The firm will also underwrite a placing to raise £250,000 at 0.25p/share.
Zentra (ZNT) intends to transfer to the newly launched Aquis Real Asset Market. Zentra has completed the acquisition of a site on Old Mill Street in Manchester for £1.425m. The former car park is near a tram stop.
Broker VSA Capital (VSA) returned to profit in the year to March 2025 as revenues rose from £1.89m to £2.78m. A small loss was reported, but that was due to the amortisation charge of £330,000. Underlying pre-tax profit was £323,000. There was £537,000 in the bank at the end of March 2025. The number of retained clients increased from 27 to 30.
AI technology developer IntelliAM AI (INT) generated pro forma revenue of £3.92m in the year to March 2025. Annual recurring revenues are £810,000 and it is expected to grow to £2m by next March. There is cash of £2m.
Hot Rocks Investments (HRIP) increased the size of its fundraising from £375,000 to £450,000, still at 1.125p/share.
The Smarter Web Company (SWC) raised a further £10.3m at 325p/share, which follows the previous placing raising £22.9m at 327p/share earlier in the week. The company currently owns 1,275 Bitcoin at a total cost of £100.1m. There is £31m left to be invested. In the past 30 days there has been a Bitcoin yield of 497% on its treasury holding.
Vaultz Capital (V3TC) director Neil Ritson has left the board. The company has submitted an application to commence share trading on the OTCQB Venture Market in the US. Bryan Reid has built up a near-11% stake.
Coinsilium (COIN) ay that its Forza! subsidiary holds 86.67 Bitcoin. Shareholder agreement to the issue of new shares will enable further investment. Trading activity in the shares has increased.
Ajax Resources (AJAX), which moved from the Main Market, plans to list on Euronext Growth Oslo. The second closing of the company’s subscription by 25 July. An Environmental Impact Study has been submitted for the Eureka copper and gold project in Argentina.
Oscillate (MUSH) has made a non-refundable payment of £500,000 to Kalahari Copper for the acquisition of a subsidiary holding the rights to the Daisu copper and silver prospects in Botswana.
Richmond Hill Resources (SHNJ) has modified terms for the purchase of Three Mile Beach with the long stop date extended until 15 October.
Wishbone Gold (WSBN) has applied for 12 exploration tenements near to the Red Setter gold dome project. They are also close to the Telfer gold mine operated by Greatland Resources (GGP).
Inqo Investments (INQO) has appointed Bowsprit Partners as corporate adviser.
Newbury Racecourse (NYR) director James Richardson has acquired 10,350 shares at 600p each.
JP JENKINS
Computational biological data analysis business e-therapeutics (ETX) has made progress with lead candidate, ETX-312, a GalOmic siRNA therapy for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The doses administered in a trial were not toxic.
Sports consultancy and data analysis company 4GLOBAL (4GBL) started trading on JP Jenkins on 8 July.
The JP Jenkins index of the 15 largest companies on the platform rose 0.96% to 1063.19 in the month to 7 July.
AIM
Water and energy efficiency technology services provide Eneraqua Technologies (ETP) says revenues will be lower than expected for the year to January 2025, but pre-tax profit will be in line with forecasts. Revenues of £81m were forecast but the outcome is going to be £63m. A £7m project substantially completed last year is recognised as accrued revenues. There have been delays in the receipt of payments and further deferral of projects in the current year. This has led to the requirement for additional funding. The disposal of a non-core business should raise £1m. Subsidiary Cenergist has been placed in administration due to an adverse adjudication. Trading in the shares has been suspended because of the financial uncertainty.
Executive search firm Norman Broadbent (NBB) reports interim net fee income up by one-third to £6m. This is helped by the rise in the average fee per mandate. Underlying EBITDA is more than £750,000. The company has moved into a net cash position of £200,000. Third quarter contracted revenues have increased.
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has launched a buyback of up to one million shares on the back of its full year results announcement. This shows the confidence in cash generation. Pre-tax profit was 7% ahead at £23.5m. Net cash was £900,000 at the end of April 2025. Total future earn out payments are £12.2m. Insolvencies remain relatively high compared with recent years. Growth is offsetting the increases in costs. There are headwinds for property advisory. Pre-tax profit could rise to £24.2m this year without further acquisitions.
IT training company Northcoders (CODE) warns that there is limited visibility on government funding of regional training. Some regions have not even launched tenders for the training. Northcoders has a good reputation but cannot guarantee how much business it will win. This makes revenues unpredictable for the full year and Zeus has withdrawn its forecasts. Fixed costs are being reduced.
Plastic products supplier Coral Products (CRU) says full year sales will be slightly lower at £30.5m, but profit will be much better than expected. Cash was £750,000 at the end of April 2025. This year profitability is significantly better than anticipated and there will be an initial contribution from Arrow Film Converters.
Premier Miton (PMI) reported a small decline in assets under management to £10.5bn at the end of June 2025. There was a positive performance over the latest quarter and outflows were lower. After the period end a new $50m mandate was gained.
Jarvis Securities (JIM) has confirmed the sale of its execution-only broker business to Interactive Investor. The initial £9m will be paid shortly and the other £2m deferred for up to 18 months. The settlement business is being wound down and the company will become a shell.
CML Microsystems (CML) has secured a 12-year design and supply agreement with a leading manufacturer of industrial Global Navigation Satellite System equipment. This deal will be worth more than $30m. Shore Capital is still not providing forecasts for this year because of the underlying uncertainty.
Data analysis software provider Celebrus Technologies (CLBS) reported a rise in full year pre-tax profit from $7.4m to $8.4m, although it is likely to be loss making this year. That is du to the switch to a subscription model.
Cybersecurity services provider Shearwater (SWG) issued a positive trading statement. The pre-tax profit forecast was raised from £400,000 to £600,000 and the 2025-26 figure is maintained at £1.1m.
Foreign exchange services provider Finseta (FIN) says interim revenues rose 16% to £5.9m and the number of customers has risen to 1,101. Corporate client generated the majority of revenues. Finseta had already warned that profit would be lower this year due to investment in expansion and there was a slump in the first half. Net cash was £400,000 at the end of June 2025. A stronger second half is expected.
Professional services firm DSW Capital (DSW) had a strong end to the financial year and expects M&A business to be much less important this year. Pre-tax profit was flat at £1.4m. Revenues were higher, partly due to direct solicitors rather than franchise business. Two-thirds of revenues came from M&A, and this will fall to one-third this year.
Futura Medical (FUM) is replacing James Bader as chief executive after disappointing sales o of its main erectile dysfunction product Eroxon. Jeff Needham is also leaving the board. Alex Duggan will become interim chief executive.
Security services provider Westminster Group (WSG) has secured a £500,000 credit facility from Pantheon A Family Office Ltd, which is already a shareholder. There is no interest charge on draw downs and an existing convertible, but the conversion price has been cut from 3p to 2p.
Petro Matad (MATD) has raised £2.84m at 0.8p/share – more than expected – and could raise a further £500,000 from a retail offer. The cash will be invested in lower cost power generation.
Active Energy Group (AEG) has closed a substantially oversubscribed placing raising £346,180. The biomass-based renewable energy technology developer will use the cash for working capital. The company is evaluating a digital assets strategy for its treasury management. A proportion of the fundraising is likely to be invested in Bitcoin and other digital assets.
MAIN MARKET
Motor dealer software provider Pinewood Technologies (PINE) has bought contracts from its South African reseller. The purchase price is £2.5m and this deal includes taking on employees. BSFA
Online travel hostel agency Hostelworld (HSW) says interim revenues were flat at €46.1m and profit will be lower. Reduced bed prices have led to improved demand. Direct marketing costs have risen, holding back profit. Net cash is €6.1m.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 12 May 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
In 2024, Newbury Racecourse (NYR) increased revenues by 16% to £22m and pre-tax profit improved from £720,000 to £1.1m. There were 30 race days, two more than the previous year. A final dividend of 6p/share was announced. Cash was £7.5m at the end of 2024.
Recent Acquis new entrant Smarter Web Company (SWC) has launched a WRAP retail offer and accelerated bookbuild raising £2.24m at 16p/share. Prior to flotation the web design and online marketing company raised £1m at 2.5p/share. That cash has been invested in Bitcoin. So far £760,000 has been spent on 10.6 Bitcoin at £71,356 each. The cash will eventually be used for expansion and acquisitions.
Wishbone Gold (WSBN) has identified eleven new gold targets at the Crescent gold project in the Mosquito Creek area of Western Australia. The company has appointed Apex Geoscience Consultants to manage the ground exploration and drilling at the Red Setter Dome. Hot Rocks Investments (HRIP) has reduced its stake below 3%. Woodland Capital has acquired 1.8 million Hot Rock Investments shares at 0.276p each.
Trading in AIM-quoted RiverFort Global Opportunities (RGO) shares recommenced following the publication of details of the acquisition of the healthy snacks operations of Aquis-quoted S-Ventures (SVEN) for 466.7 million shares and a £1m placing at 0.75p/share. A loan is being converted into 356.3 million shares. RiverFort will be able to provide cash to grow the snacks business. The company will change its name to Tooru.
Marula Mining (MARU) has completed wet commissioning of the Kilifi manganese processing plant in Kenya. The first manganese sales should be in May. The latest exploration of Kilifi is focused on specific target areas to assess the suitability of ores for processing.
Cooks Coffee Company (COOK) has entered into a master franchise agreement with Sterling Coffee House covering India.
Ormonde Mining (ORM) investee company TRU Precious Metals has commenced drilling at the Gold Rose project in the central Newfoundland gold belt.
BWA Group (BWAP) says shallow drilling has been completed at the 90%-owned Dehane 1 mineral sands project in Cameroon. This shows significant accumulations of heavy mineral sands. Total heavy mineral sands grades are up to 4.7% over eight metres thickness. Significant areas remain untested.
Ananda Pharma (ANA) says ex-GW Pharmaceuticals executive Giles Moss is an advisor. He will provide expertise in regulatory approvals. GW Pharmaceuticals was acquired by Jazz Pharmaceuticals.
Kondor AI (KNDR) has changed its name to Sundae Bar (KNDR).
NYCE International (NYCE), formerly ChallengerX, has established a gaming advisory committee, including Farzad Peyman, Harmen Brenninkmeijer, Richard Clarke and Simon French.
Valereum (VLRM) raised £500,000 at 4p/share. This will help to fund the launch and scaling up digital asset services.
Brompton Asset Management has raised its shareholding in Global Connectivity (GCON) from 14.8% to 18.6%.
ASSET MATCH
Synairgen (SNG) joined Asset Match on 8 May, having left AIM.
JP JENKINS
Renewable energy investment company Thrive Renewables (THRV) has launched a £5m share offer at 247p/share. The minimum investment is £247. This will provide funding for construction projects. The plan is to double generating capacity by 2028. In 2024, operating profit dipped from £13.6m to £11.3m. The final dividend is 12p/share.
Brighton Pier (PIER) moved from AIM to JP Jenkins on 6 May.
Samarkand Group (SMK) switched from Aquis to JP Jenkins on 7 May.
ADVFN (AFN) moved from AIM to JP Jenkins on 8 May.
e-therapeutics (ETX) presented new preclinical results on its GalOmic small-interfering RNA candidate ETX-312 for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.
AIM
Communications and connectivity services provider Maintel (MAI) reported a 3% dip in 2024 revenues to £97.9m, but the previous year was boosted by delayed work due to component shortages so there was underlying growth. New business is being won in the core areas. Underlying pre-tax profit rose from £3.9m to £4.9m. Higher national insurance and other costs will hold back profit this year.
Building and plumbing products distributor Lords Group Trading (LORD) shares continue to rise following yesterday’s 2024 results announcement and trading statement. First quarter like-for-like growth is 11% in merchanting and 22% in plumbing and heating. That does compare with a weak period of the previous year. Property disposals have reduced borrowings.
Staffing company Empresaria Group (EMR) has received a bid approach from a consortium of individuals, including the boss of the offshore services division of the company. The 60p/share indicative offer comprises 10p/share in cash and 50p/share in loan notes to be redeemed on the third anniversary of the acquisition. The Empresaria board believes the offer undervalues the company. However, two major shareholders are keen for options to be explored to realise value in the business and the initial approach may encourage others.
Film and TV vehicles and trailer supplier Facilities by ADF (ADF) reported 2024 figures in line with expectations, but the figures were overshadowed by potential US tariffs on non-US movies. This provides additional uncertainty in a market that has been slow to recover from the US writers; strike and concerns that there could have been changes in UK film and TV investment incentives. There was a small 2024 pre-tax profit before exceptionals, including a £2.45m write down of goodwill on the acquisition of Location One, which has not performed to expectations. First quarter group revenues have improved, and pre-tax profit should recover this year.
Aptamer (APTA) says the Optimer-based test for Alzheimer’s disease has been adapted into an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), a format widely accepted and used in hospital laboratories. This has enabled a royalty agreement to be finalised with development partner Neuro-Bio. Aptamer will receive a blended royalty rate of 11.1% on the first £166m of sales with 5% after that level of sales is passed. A validated prototype could be developed within 18 months and the be transferred to a distributor. The Alzheimer’s disease testing market could be worth $19.6bn by 2029.
Delays in decision making by customers has led to a downgrading of expectations for 1Spatial (SPA). The geospatial software provider is still growing with annualised recurring revenues growing 14% to £19.7m at the end of January 2025. Group full year revenues were 3% ahead at £33.4m with lower services revenues offsetting software growth. Underlying pre-tax profit improved fell from £2.1m to £1.2m. Despite a downgrade, pre-tax profit is still expected to be £2m this year.
Excess inventory retailer Huddled (HUD) reported a jump in 2024 revenues from £2.4m to £14.2m through a combination of growth in the original Discount Dragon fast moving consumer products retailer and the acquisitions of cosmetic products retailer Boop Beauty and health products retailer Nutricircle. The legacy Let’s Connect business is being closed down. The 2024 loss increased from £2.28m to £4.05m. First quarter trading has been strong and there is additional warehouse capacity that will enable Huddled to move towards profitability later this year. A £1.1m loss is forecast for 2025 and a move into profit anticipated in 2026.
Paper and advanced materials manufacturer James Cropper (CRPR) expects to report flat EBITDA of £6.7m for the year to March 2025. Growth in advanced materials did not fully offset the lower paper and packaging contribution to revenues, which is set to remain flat this year. The new chief executive is cutting costs to help profitability of the paper and packaging division, and he will provide an update on strategy in June.
Legal services provider Knights Group Holdings (KGH) is acquiring Essex-based Birkett Long, which includes an IFA business. This provides an entry for the larger group into the financial advice sector. The initial consideration is £10m with deferred cash consideration of £6.6m payable in three annual instalments. The IFA acquisition required FCA approval so it may take longer to complete that part of the deal. Birkett Long has three offices and generated £1m of profit on revenues of £14.7m in the year to May 2024.
Escape rooms and bars operator XP Factory (XPF) increased revenues 17% to £57.3m in the 12 months to March 2025 with the fastest growth in Bom Battle Bars, which were 30% ahead at £41.9m. However, like-for-like growth for Escape Hunt was 3.2%, while Boom was 2.3% ahead. Those figures were affected by the timing of Easter and sunny weather. EBITDA will be between £6.2m and £6.4m.
Film and TV subtitling and dubbing services provider Zoo Digital (ZOO) says work is coming through more slowly than expected. The timing of projects remains uncertain. Revenues for the year to March 2025 have been reduced by 3% to $49.4m and the loss increased to $7.4m. A 23% cut in forecast 2025-26 revenues to $42.5m means that Zoo Digital could continue to be loss making. Even so, net cash could improve from $2.6m to $3m. Rob Pursell has been appointed as finance director.
Brave Bison (BBSN) completed the acquisition of influencer marketing agency The Fifth from News Corp and is already eyeing another target. It is in exclusive talks to buy MiniMBA from Centaur Media (CAU) for £19m. This is an elearning provider for marketing professionals. This would be part funded by a placing and a strategic investment of £4m by MiniMBA founder Mark Ritson. This deal would add £3.5m to group EBITDA taking it to £8m.
Seaweed-based animal feed Ocean Harvest Technology (OHT) says first quarter revenues grew 65%, but it remains loss making. Further funds are being sought from investors, but it has not yet secured any commitments. Talks are also ongoing with the secured loan note holders, which may be able to request repayment because of a potential default. There is enough cash until mid-June.
Automotive interior components supplier CT Automotive (CTA) improved margins in 2024 through cost reductions and greater efficiency. That enabled pre-tax profit to edge up from $8.3m to $8.7m even though revenues declined. A rise in pre-tax profit to $10.5m is expected this year. There is uncertainty about US tariffs, but the company can move supply from China to Mexico. Non-exec Nick Timberlake bought 20,000 shares at 27.7p each.
Degradable plastics developer Symphony Environmental Technologies (SYM) has raised £2.5m at 20p/share from Quantum Leap Capital. The subscription will be in two tranches and Quantum Leap Capital will have a 5.26% stake.
MAIN MARKET
Swindon-based newspaper and magazines distributor Smiths News (SNWS) is pushing forward with trials of potential new operations that will make up the decline in the core business. Interim revenues dipped from £539.8m to £536.4m. The newspaper revenues were slightly lower, while magazine revenues fell more than 4%. Collectibles sales and the newer operations helped to offset some of these declines. Underlying pre-tax profit improved from £11.8m to £13.1m as costs were reduced and interest charges fell because of the lower borrowings. Although net debt was higher at the end of the period, the average net debt has fallen from £12.5m to £1.1m. The interim dividend was maintained at 1.75p/share.
Cardiff Property (CDFF) reported net assets of £29.72/share at the end of March 2025. The interim dividend was raised from 6.5p/share to 7.5p/share.
Bluebird Merchant Ventures (BMV) has reinterpreted the pre-feasibility study for its Philippine asset. The original study was in 2016. Using a gold price of $3000/ounce and increasing operating costs by 60% and doubling capital spending, NPV10 is $70.5m, based on 75% ownership. Two mineral production sharing agreements have been approved by the authorities for a further two years.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 15 April 2024
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Voyager Life (VOY) has terminated its merger with Northern Leaf following a decline in its share price making it difficult to fund the transaction. The cannabis products supplier says that there are other potential partners. Additional finance is required to automate production.
Supernova Digital (SOL) says NAV was 0.36p/share on 3 April 2024. A tender offer is planned when there are additional liquid funds. Director Nicholas Lyth bought two million shares at 0.19p each.
Capital for Colleagues (CFCP) has sold shares in Computer Application Services for £257,000 and it retains a 28.9% stake.
Marula Mining (MARU) issued 2.8 million shares to pay for its stakes in the Nyoriinyori and NyoriGreen graphite projects The total consideration is £350,000. This follows assay results that confirm high-grade and broad graphite mineralisation on each of the projects. Marula Mining is also about to start supplying columbite-tantalite and feldspar from the Blesberg mine in South Africa to Fujax UK.
Substrate AI (SAI) is forecasting 2024 revenues of $20.6m and pre-tax profit of $1m. This is due to organic growth.
Business assurance provider Adsure Services (ADS) has announced a maiden dividend of 0.49p/share and the shares go ex-dividend on 18 April. Trading has been strong in the second half.
KR1 (KR1) has announced a general meeting on 29 April to seek authority to acquire up to 14.9% of its share capital.
Hydrogen Future Industries (HFI) has raised £60,000 at 5p/share. This is on top of the £552,000 raised earlier in the year. Inqo Investments (INQO) raised £1.3m at 70p/share. Dermatological technology developer Incanthera (INC) raised £174,000 from the exercise of warrants at 10p. Crushmetric (CUSH) placed shares raising £54,000 at 12.5p each.
Valereum (VLRM) has appointed Stanford Capital Partners as broker. Spirits company Rogue Baron (SHNJ) has appointed New York-based MD Global Partners as joint broker.
Rikki Devlin has increased his stake in Oscillate (MUSH) from 3.04% to 4.21%. Michael Prior sold 645 shares in brewer Shepherd Neame (SHEP) at 695p each.
AIM
Self-storage operator Lok’nStore (LOK) has agreed a 1,100p/share cash bid from Belgium-based Shurgard Self Storage. That values the company at £370m. The share price has risen above the level of the bid.
Churchill China (CHH) still managed to increase its profit in 2023 even though the third quarter trading was weak, and revenues fell. Europe was the bright spot, with growth in ceramics sales to hospitality customers in the main markets. The UK was flat, and the rest of the world sales were lower. The dividend has been raised from 31.5p/share to 36p/share. Capital investment will improve efficiency and margins. Investec forecasts flat 2024 pre-tax profit of £10.8m and that assumes an upturn in the UK.
There were no additional negatives in the Bango (BGO) 2023 figures following its disappointing trading statement earlier in the year. In fact, the previously announced foreign exchange loss was not taken through the income statement. Revenues grew from $28.5m to $46.1m with a full contribution from DOCOMO. The reported loss jumped from $4.8m to $10.2m. The NewDeep joint venture is being wound down so that stop the losses from it, while the technology can be used in the core business. Net debt is $3.9m. Capex continues at a high level and there is an unused overdraft facility of £3m that can be used. First quarter revenues are up by one-fifth and cost savings will help Bango achieve the anticipated move into profit this year. Annualised recurring revenues are $11m.
CleanTech Lithium (CTL) chief executive Aldo Boitano has resigned, although he will be a consultant, and Steve Kesler has taken over on an interim basis. This follows the revelation he entered into a loan agreement with his shareholding in the company as security in August 2023, but this was not revealed at the time. He transferred his 9.4 million shares to a custodian account nominated by the lender. It is unclear if any of the shares have been sold.
Cosmetics supplier Warpaint London (W7L) says trading continues to outperform expectations. First quarter sales are 28% higher at £23.5m. This has been achieved by adding stores and broadening the range and there has been no price rise since early 2022. Margins have also improved. Shore believes that its current pre-tax profit forecast of £19.1m for 2024 is likely to be 10% too low. The broker will not upgrade its forecast until the 2023 results are published on 24 April.
Coal miner Bens Creek (BEN) is laying off workers at its mine in West Verginia, which will be operated on a care and maintenance basis. There are 44 employees being laid off and that is described as “a substantial number” of the employees at the mine. Management is in discussions with largest shareholder and offtake partner Avani Resources to provide further finance. Earlier in the week, the company said it had secured a one-off sale of 20,000 tons of coal to Avani Resources for $1.2m, of which $1m has been received in advance of delivery. This is lower quality coal, and the deal is separate to the offtake agreement. This did not prove enough to alleviate the poor financial position of the US-based metallurgical coal miner.
European Green Transition (EGT) is seeking to build up a portfolio of mining and processing projects that can help to progress the move to cleaner energy in Europe. There is potential for grant income from the EU for European critical minerals assets, as well as looking at non-dilutive ways of raising money for individual projects. A placing and offer raised £6.46m at 10p/share. Trading commenced on 8 April. The share price ended the week at 12p. Pro forma net assets are £7.29m, which includes cash of £5.95m. The Olserum rare earth element project in Sweden is the core asset.
Fulcrum Metals (FMET) has acquired the Sylvanite gold tailings project in Ontario. This is a former producing mine, and it is near to the previous tailings investment the Teck-Hughes gold tailings project. There are plans to create a tailings hub. The historic tailings resource estimate at Sylvanite is 67,051 ounces.
First quarter revenues at carbon brake technology developer Surface Transforms (SCE) were £3m, which was lower than target. However, production yields improved in March when revenues were £1.5m. Revised delivery schedules have been agreed. Cavendish has raised its 2024 forecast loss to £3m because of higher scrappage costs and there are likely to be higher working capital requirements. There should still be net cash at the end of 2024.
Drug developer e-therapeutics (ETX) is raising £28.9m at 15p/share from M and G and Richard Griffiths. It is also the latest company to decide to leave AIM. In the future, a Nasdaq listing may be possible.
Active Energy Group (AEG) has been reviewing its operations and how to secure funding. It believes it cannot raise the cash it requires to construct a CoalSwitch biomass fuel plant and commence production. A buyer is being sought for the CoalSwitch assets. If that happens, then the company would become a shell.
Oracle Power (ORCP) has secured an option to acquire 100% of the Blue Rock Valley copper and silver project in Western Australia. The option cost £30,000 in shares. If the option is exercised there will be 913.2 million shares issued – valued at £200,000.
Weak third quarter demand at castings company Chamberlin (CMH) hit profitability. Some new programmes were delayed, and other demand was lower than forecast. The renewable offshore energy sector remained strong. There has been some recovery in the fourth quarter and costs are being reduced. Prices increases have been made.
Harvest Minerals (HMI) has made a rare earth elements discovery at its Arapua fertiliser project in Brazil. Rock samples analysis shows rare earth elements and further work will be done to firm up the opportunity by assessing previous drilling. There has been a better start to the year for sales of fertiliser.
Contract research and infectious disease study services provider hVIVO (HVO) reported 2023 results broadly in line with the trading statement. The order book covers 90% of the forecast revenues of £62m, with a strong first half expected.
MAIN MARKET
Kitchenware retailer ProCook Group (PROC) reported fourth quarter trading showing 4.8% year-on-year growth in revenues to £13.2m with the decline in ecommerce revenues slowing. Like-for-like growth was 1.5% ahead. Full year revenues were flat at £62.6m, although retail revenues were 9% higher. Net debt is £700,000.
Critical Metals (CRTM) has issued £1.6m of convertible loan notes. This will help to finance the road to the Molulu copper cobalt project in the Democratic Republic of Congo and fund initial drilling to establish a JORC resource. Management is also near to securing an $11m loan guaranteed by the US government. This will fund construction of the mine and leave additional cash for investment in other projects. Production at Molulu could start before the end of this year. The plan is to produce 10,000 tonnes of copper each month.
Standard list shell Aura Renewable Acquisitions (ARA) had £661,000 in the bank at the end of 2023. It raised £1m in April 2022. The company is still seeking an acquisition in the renewable energy sector.
Narf Industries (NARF) has won a $500,000 cybersecurity contract with the US Department of Energy. This is part of a project to strengthen the resilience of energy infrastructure.
Andrew Hore
Andrew Hore – Quoted Micro 17 May 2021
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
United Win Asia has invested £3.15m in Samarkand (SMK) at 115p a share, which is the same as the original placing price but well below the market price. United Win Asia is part of a logistics group and this fits well with Samarkand’s ecommerce platform.
Clarify Pharma plans to raise £5m at 3p a share, which would value the life sciences company at £10.5m. The focus is psychedelic-based substances that can be used to treat PTSD, Alzheimer’s and depression. Investments will be identified in the UK and Canada. The board is dominated by the same team, including Michael Edwards, that floated decentralised finance (DeFi) focused investment company Dispersion Holdings (DEFI) and NFT Investments (NFT), which is investing in a portfolio of non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
Michael Edwards is also chairman of Pioneer Media Inc. This is a company that has floated on the Canadian Stock Exchange and plans to gain a quote on Aquis. Pioneer is seeking investments in eSports and mobile gaming. The expected admission date is 25 May.
Pharma C Investments is an early-stage investor in the medical cannabis sector. The focus will be on markets that already have legislation and regulations. The plan is to raise £1m and the expected admission date is 26 May.
Greencare Capital (GRE) has appointed Richard Tonthat as chief executive. The cannabis-focused investment company recently made its first two investments after its original acquisition fell through. Richard Tonthat has worked at Grant Thornton and British American Tobacco, when it made a large cannabis acquisition in Canada.
ASX-listed Pacific Nickel has completed the acquisition of 80% of Kolosori Nickel and Gunsynd (GUN) has received 682,790 Pacific Nickel shares at 8 cents each for its stake. The current Pacific Nickel shareholding is 1.95 million shares. There will be deferred consideration if a mining lease is granted, and the mineral resource is confirmed. Gunsynd could receive a further 1.14 million shares if this is achieved.
Eight Capital Partners (ECP) is acquiring corporate finance adviser Innovative Finance Srl for an initial €2.45m with a further €2.45m payable depending on performance over three years. Eight Capital Partners previously had an option to acquire a 60% stake. Concreta Srl will own 9.9% of Eight Capital Partners and chairman Dominic White will own 29.9% – he is also loaning the company €1.1m.
Cadence Minerals (KDNC) says that a second batch of iron ore has been shipped from stockpiles at the Amapa project in Brazil. The cash will be used to pay creditors, including ex-employees. The remaining creditors need to be paid before Cadence acquires a 20% stake in Amapa. A further investment of $3.5m would take the stake to 27%.
R Oldfield has been buying shares in Shepherd Neame (SHEP). He bought 6,356 shares at 1032p each, a further 2,500 shares at 1038p each and 16,144 shares at 1035p each.
Incanthera (INC) is presenting at the Shares and AJ Bell investor evening webinar on 19 May.
Vulcan Industries (VULC) has raised £70,000 at 1.5p a share. Vulcan subsidiary Orca Doors is gaining orders, which cover six months of capacity. Ananda Investments (ANA) has raised £15,000 from the exercising of warrants at 0.45p a share.
EPE Special Opportunities Ltd (ESO) had a NAV of 495.69p a share at the end of April 2021.
AIM
Motor dealer Vertu Motors (VTU) performed In the year to February 2021, revenues fell from £3.1bn to £2.5bn, while underlying pre-tax profit improved from £23m to £24.6m. Net cash, excluding leases and vehicle stocking loans, was £1.4m at the end of February 2021. The net tangible asset value is 50.2p a share. At the beginning of May, CIP Merchant Capital (CIP) bought 1.55 million Vertu Motors shares at just over 40.3p each.
Business restructuring company Begbies Traynor (LSE: BEG) has acquired Midlands-based MAF Property, which is a finance broker. The deal could cost up to £11.75m, with £3m in cash and shares upfront and the rest depending on profit growth. The pre-tax profit forecast for the year to April 2022 has been raised from £16.5m to £17m.
Nightcap (NGHT) has raised £10m at 23p a share and strong demand meant that existing shareholders Raymond Blanc and David Moore sold part of their stakes. The original plan was to raise £4m.
e-Therapeutics (ETX) has raised £22.5m, including £920,000 via Primary Bid, at 24p a share. The cash will be used to expand the company’s drug discovery and development operations. There are plans to complete a first in human clinical study for one RNAi asset and advance two or three other RNAi therapeutic programmes through preclinical development.
Great Western Mining (GWMO) has completed an initial six-hole drilling programme at the Trafalgar Hill project in Nevada. All six holes intercepted intercepted the main shallow structure. In the next few weeks there will be further drilling and more analysis and news about these drilling results.
Gaming Realms (GMR) has extended its SLINGO agreement with Scientific Games. The four-year licensing deal includes the opportunity to launch SLINGO digital lottery games.
Trellus Health has the rights to technology that can be used to manage irritable bowel syndrome. It can reduce unplanned hospital visits by 85%. The US-based company expects to join AIM on 28 May.
STM (STM) has sold its Jersey trust and company services business for net cash of at least £1.4m. That reduces the 2021 profit forecast by £100,000 to £2.5m.
Dekel Agri-Vision (DKL) says April crude palm oil production was lower against strong comparatives, but that was offset by higher prices. Arden still expects a move into profit this year – €600,000 is forecast.
MAIN MARKET
Medica Group (MGP) reported a one-fifth reduction in full year revenues to £36.8m. The lack of elective surgery meant that demand for teleradiology services was reduced. However, demand for emergency services slightly increased. There was an initial contribution from the Irish business bought last year. The 2020 underlying pre-tax profit fell from £11m to £4.74m. The US business was acquired this year and an Australian joint venture has been launched.
LED lighting and wiring accessories supplier Luceco (LUCE) expects interim operating profit to double to £18m. Operating margins are being maintained even though costs of some components are increasing. Net debt should remain at around £18.3m.
Haysmacintyre and a partner have been reprimanded and fined for its audit of the Associated British Engineering (ASBE) accounts for 2017-18. This was not undertaken in the appropriate manner.
Cizzle Biotechnology (CIZ) has reversed into standard list shell Bould Opportunities. Cizzle is is developing a test that could make diagnosing lung cancer more accurate by preventing false positives. A placing raised £2.2m at 10p a share. Pro forma cash is £1.89m, which is slightly higher than the NAV. The cash will be used to make progress towards gaining CE marking for the biomarker test.
Andrew Hore
Andrew Hore – Quoted Micro 13 July 2020
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Capital for Colleagues (CFCP) has sold its investment in builder’s merchant Merkko Group for double the original investment. The cash consideration for the redemption of the non-voting stake is £400,000. Capital for Colleagues has reinvested £150,000 for a 10% stake in Merkko. The rest of the cash can be reinvested in other companies.
Coinsilium Group Ltd (COIN) is forming a 50/50 Singapore joint venture with blockchain protocol company IOV Labs, which will finance the venture with a loan. IOV owns 6.94% of Coinsilium. A strategic review is commencing a strategic review because there will be a focus on the new joint venture.
In the second quarter, the Hellyer gold mine owned by NQ Minerals (NQMI) produced 1,223 ounces of gold, 229,947 ounces of silver, 8,762 tonnes of lead concentrate and 4,241 tonnes of zinc concentrate. More gold and lead were produced than in the previous quarter, but less silver and zinc. Investment in plant means production should increase in the third quarter. NQ has raised £917,000 at 6.5p a share and this will help to finance the reopening of the Beaconsfield gold mine in Tasmania.
Cannabis-based products supplier Sativa Group (SATI) achieved record trading in June. This includes sales of the company’s hand sanitiser.
Fellow cannabis-focused company Freyherr International Group (FRYR) is changing its year end to 30 June. The next results will be for 18 months to June 2020. Luka Freyer and Tomaz Frelih have stepped down from the board and Ervin Kovac has joined the board and becomes general manager of the Slovenian operations. The Ljubljana office has been closed as part of overhead reductions. The mortgage on the Koper facility has been extended and the interest rate reduced to 5% a year.
World High Life (LIFE) has issued 12.7 million shares at 9p each to pay director and adviser fees and 3.45 million shares at the same price in lieu of debt repayments. A further 7.18 million shares will be issued on conversion of £666,666 of debentures, plus interest of £46,393. CBD-brand Love Hemp has been awarded ISO certification.
Gunsynd (GUN) has raised £469,000 at 0.65p a share. Every three new shares come with a warrant exercisable at 1.3p a share. MiLOC Group (ML.P) is raising £1.1m at 28.5p a share through a placing with BWB International. Recently floated engineering consolidator Vulcan Industries (VULC) has raised an additional £71,000 at 4.5p a share. The original placing was at 3p a share.
At the end of June 2020, EPE Special Opportunities Ltd (ESO) had a NAV of 265.3p a share.
AIM
Management consultancy Elixirr International (ELIX) joined AIM last week. The share price has fallen from the placing level of 217p to 204.5p. The shares are trading on just over 13 times prospective 2020 earnings. The forecast dividend is 2.2p a share.
Seeing Machines (SEE) is set to be a beneficiary of legislation that will go to the Senate in the US that will make driver monitoring systems (DMS) compulsory in cars and trucks sold in the US from 2024. This is part of a more wide-ranging act relating to vehicle safety. There is similar legislation in Europe, although there will be delays in it coming into force due to COVID-19. That should not have too much of a negative effect on Seeing Machines.
Trading at Tracsis (TRCS) was not as badly affected by COVID-19 as it feared. There will be a £10m reduction in full year revenues to around £46m. The traffic and data services business has been hit by the lack of summer events. The rail software business has traded well and there is a pipeline of potential new contracts. There is still £16m in the bank even after paying an initial £12.5m for smart ticketing firm iBlocks.
DBAY Advisors has bought more shares in in Wynnstay Group (WYN) and the stake is 6.12%.
Energy procurement consultancy Inspired Energy (INSE) is raising up to £35m through a placing and two-for-43 open offer at 15p a share. The purchase of the 60% of Ignite Energy that Inspired does not won will cost £11m with contingent consideration of £19m payable in cash and shares. There are plans for further acquisitions.
e-therapeutics (ETX) has raised just over £11m from a share issue at 12p a share, including £750,000 raised via PrimaryBid. This was a 31% discount to the market price. The cash will be used to develop the company’s informatics platform and RNAi technology. Additional staff will be taken on.
Burford Capital (BUR) has filed a registration statement with the SEC ahead of a US listing. There are no plans for a share issue.
Genedrive (GDR) says that full year revenues were 31m and it had cash of £8.2m at the end of June 2020. The molecular diagnostics company says there are 31m in indicative orders for its COVID-19 test.
MAIN MARKET
Viaro Energy has bid 1850p a share for RockRose Energy (RRE) and acceptances have already reached 36.8%. The bid values RockRose at £247.6m. At the beginning of 2016, RockRose floated at 50p a share intending to acquire oil and gas assets.
Telecoms services provider Toople (TOOP) increased full year revenues by 39% to £1.5m and gross margins improved. The cash outflow from operations was £924,000 and there was £1m in cash at the end of March 2020. This year is important because there will be a full contribution from DMSL plus cost savings that could be more than £1m. Chief executive Andy Hollingworth bought 10.6 million shares at 0.0944p each. He owns 38.8 million shares.
Baskerville Capital (BASK) has increased its stake in Oberon Investments, the owner of fund manager MD Barnard, to 10.13% and expects to buy the company by the end of the third quarter. Oberon has acquired Hanson Asset Management, and this takes assets under management to more than £300m. Baskerville may move to the Aquis Stock Exchange after the deal is completed.
Packaging supplier Macfarlane (MACF) says interim revenues were 3% lower following a tough second quarter when revenues fell 7%. Macfarlane is confident that it will be profitable and cash generative this year. The board hopes to restart dividend payments when the outlook is more certain.
InnovaDerma (IDP) says online sales have replaced lost high street sales. Full year revenues were 2% higher at £13.2m, but profit will be lower due to higher online advertising costs and lower margin sales. Margins could recover this year.
Tex Holdings (TXH) says that the FCA has asked questions about its 2019 audited financial statements. Christian Ross has been appointed as finance director.
Andrew Hore
Andrew Hore – Quoted Micro 17 February 2020
NEX EXCHANGE
NEX and AIM-quoted Arbuthnot Banking Group (ARBB) says that there has been an increase in the level of confidence in its markets since the General Election. That was too late to have much effect on the 2019 results, but full year pre-tax profit will be at the upper end of expectations. Last year, customer loan balances rose by 31% and deposits by 22%.
Sativa Group (SATI) says that it welcomes the guidance from the Food Standards Agency on the safe use of CBD products and the timetable for novel food authorisation. Management points out that Sativa’s products do not include THC. Sativa expects to report 2019 gross profit slightly higher than expectations on lower than marginally lower than expected. Goodbody Wellness has piloted three retail stores, but they did not perform as well as expected. PhytoVista Laboratories has completed more than 3,000 tests on cannabis-based products. That includes Sativa’s own products and a new sports range is near launch. Medicinal cannabis-based development is focused on veterinary treatments.
EPE Special Opportunities (ESO) has increased its NAV by 55% to 317.2p a share following a strong performance by Whittard of Chelsea and a recovery in the share price of fully listed Luceco. Pharmacy2U continues to grow strongly. Last year, 2.3% of the shares in issue were bought back by the company. New investments are being sought for available funds.
Ethical housing investor Walls and Futures REIT (WAFR) increased its NAV by 15% to 106p a share in the year to January 2020. Chief executive Joseph McTaggart bought 1,991 shares at 61.75p each.
Hellyer gold mine operator NQ Minerals (NQMI) has raised a further £210,000 at 7p a share.
Investment company Primorus Investments (PRIM) has benefitted from the sharp share price rise in Greatland Gold (GGP) and the stake is worth two-fifths of the company’s market value. The current profit is £1.25m. Investee company TruSpine is on course to float in London this year. The spine stabilisation devices developer has gained a new cornerstone investor. Primorus is debt free.
Trading in the shares of Altona Energy (ANR) has been suspended because it has not published its annual report for the year to June 2019. Cash needs to be raised to keep the company going and management says that shareholders will be invited to participate in a fundraising. The company says it expects to publish the report in the next two weeks and blames the delay on a change of auditor and a new accounting treatment for its exploration licences. Final terms for the acquisition of the previously announced new petroleum exploration licence application are being negotiated.
SG Recruitment Ltd (SGRL) majority shareholder and chief executive David Sumner has also taken on the role as chairman after the resignation of Alan Kitchin and Katie Hiess from the board.
AIM
Brickability (BRCK) has acquired McCann Roofing Products for £2.75m. Essex-based McCann imports roofing and building products from Europe and generated a 2019 pre-tax profit of £700,000 on revenues of £8.2m. This deal adds additional suppliers to the group and should be immediately earnings enhancing.
Nostra Terra Oil and Gas (NTOG) has convened the requisitioned general meeting on 3 March. Eridge Capital wants to remove Matt Lofgran and Ewen Ainsworth from the board and replace them with Andrew Morrison. Eridge was previously known as former AIM company New World Oil and Gas. Nostra Terra’s subsidiary has loans that have a key man clause which stipulate that Lofgran has to be president of the subsidiary unless it give consent or there will be a default.
Drug discovery platform developer e-Therapeutics (ETX) has overhauled its board and raised £1.6m at 3p a share. Former Silence Therapeutics boss Ali Mortazavi becomes executive chairman. Ian Ross is stepping down to concentrate his role at Silence Therapeutics. Chief executive Ray Barlow and finance director Steve Medlicott are also leaving. An additional independent non-executive director will be appointed.
Gemfields Group Ltd (GEM) joined AIM last Friday. The share price ended the day at 11.7p.
Bidstack (BIDS) expects to have generated £150,000 from programmatic advertising for video games. That is much lower than previously hoped because it is taking much longer to get advertising agencies to take in-game advertising seriously. There was cash of £3.14m at the end of 2019 following a loss of £5.3m. There was £6m in the bank at the end of June 2019. First half revenues will still be small.
Knights Group Holdings (KGH) has acquired Nottingham law firm Fraser Brown Solicitors for up to £8.28m in cash and shares. This follows the purchase of Croftons Solicitors, which is based in Manchester, for up to £2.8m. A new revolving credit facility of £40m has been agreed and it lasts until June 2023.
Octopus Investments has cut its stake in Staffware (STAF) from 13.2% to 0.53%. Gresham House Asset Management increased its stake from 6.7% to 10.6%.
Filta Holdings (FLTA) says it should make an EBITDA of £3.2m in 2019. Cost savings and investment software will help the fryer management services provider to produce a much better performance in 2020.
Keystone Law (KEYS) has traded in line with expectations. Pre-tax profit is forecast to increase from £5.1m to £5.7m.
Hormonal disease treatments developer Diurnal (DNL) says that the FDA has accepted the new drug application for Akindi Sprinkle as a treatment for infants and children. Approval could be gained by the autumn and it will be the only licenced treatment specifically for children. There was cash of £4.6m at the end of 2019.
MAIN MARKET
Automotive information publisher Haynes Publishing (HYNS) is recommending a 700p a share bid from Infopro Digital, valuing the company at £114.5m. The two companies fit well together and will have greater scale.
Finance provider S and U (SUS) says that its figures for the year to January 2020 will be in line with expectations and trading has been getting better in the past few weeks. The used car market has held up well even though the new car market is week. This is why second hand car finance provider Advance should produce another record performance in 2020-21. Property bridging finance provider Aspen has made the progress hoped because of delays in repayments and the loan book is lower than expected, but it is still a young business. A 2019-20 pre-tax profit of £35.5m is expected to increase to £39m this year. The latest total dividend will be raised by around 5% to 124p a share.
JLEN Environmental Assets (JLEN) is raising cash from the placing of up to 49.7 million shares. This will fund a pipeline of investments. The bookbuild will close on 26 February.
Ultimate Products (UPGS) says that sales growth is easing this year with first half revenues 3% ahead at £67.7m. There is also uncertainty about the supply of products from China. Even so, Shore is maintaining its full year pre-tax forecast of £8.77m, a small increase on last year. That could change.
Zenith Energy (ZEN) is widening the geographic scope of its activities by negotiating to acquire an oil production licence in West Africa. Zenith has raised £135,000 through a share issue at 1.5p a share. It has also entered into an equity sharing agreement with a consortium of institutional investors. The nominal amount raised is £810,000, but the ultimate amount will depend on the share price when each tranche is paid over the next 12 months. The benchmark price is NOK0.2231/share, equivalent to around 1.85p. The share price is 1.43p, so the first instalment is likely to be below the notional level if there is no share price recovery.
BATM Communications (BVC) has gained a $1.3m order from a Middle East-based poultry firm for its agri-waste treatment system.
Fasteners supplier Trifast (TRI) says market conditions are more challenging and there has been a slow start to the fourth quarter, which is normally the strongest. Margins have fallen and profit will be at the lower end of the range of forecasts. The Coronavirus has led to the extended closure of Chinese sites, but this is a small percentage of production.
Cathay International Holdings (CTI) says that production at its plants is on hold or preparing to gradual resume production because of the effects of the Coronavirus. The hotel business has been hit by a sharp reduction in occupancy rates.
Avation (AVAP) has made firm orders for two ATR 72-600 aircraft that will be leased to US-Bangla, the largest private airline in Bangladesh.
Predator Oil and Gas (PRD) is raising £3.56m at 4p a share. This will finance the drilling of the Moulouya well in Morocco and provide cash for further investment in Trinidad.
Andrew Hore