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Quoted Micro 15 September 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Newbury Racecourse (NYR) increased interim turnover 4% to £9.67m and the loss reduced to £150,000. Hospitality, hotel and nursery revenues all increased. Higher attendances improved core revenues as well. Changes in betting tax rates could hold back racing revenues.
ProBiotix Health (PBX) increased interim revenues by one-third to £1.34m. This helped to reduce the loss. There is £1.3m in cash at the end of June 2025. The health supplements supplier says the market preventive cardiometabolic supplement products is expected to grow annually be more than 8%.
Richmond Hill Resources (SHNJ) plans to move to AIM in the next few weeks.
Shares in data centres operator HRC World (HRC) will stop trading on Nasdaq First North Copenhagen on 31 October and Aquis will be the only market they are traded on.
Shortwave Life Sciences (PSY), which is developing treatments for anorexia nervosa, is planning a clinical human feasibility study on impact of Psilocybin on the disease. This should lead to a phase 1 clinical study. A digital asset treasury strategy will help to fund the core business. The executive team is being changed.
Mendell Helium (MDH) says potential acquisition M3 Helium confirmed that the dewatering of the Rost project in Kansas is about to start. However, drilling in Nebraska has been delayed by wet weather and equipment problems.
The Smarter Web Company (SWC) has purchased another 30 Bitcoin taking the total holding to 2,470 Bitcoin at a total cost of £203.6m. A further £2.6m has been raised at 128p/share.
Ormonde Mining (ORM) investee company TRU Precious Metals has intersected a previously unknown broad mineralised sandstone unit in two drill holes at the Golden Rose project in Canada. This is over a strike length of 500 metres with assay results of up to 1.3g/t gold.
Marula Mining (MARU) has amended the agreement to buy Takela Mining Tanzania, which operates the Kinusi copper mine. Marula currently owns 75% and acquiring the rest is dependent on separate mining licences being combined into one mining licence. The Tanzania government will have a 16% free carried interest. The total payment will be £2.5m with £500,000 payable on signing and £750,000 on conversion of the mining licence. The rest is dependent on more than 100,000 tonnes of copper being sold. Marula Mining is in discussions with potential investors in projects and has secured a loan for the business in Kenya. There is also a new £1m shareholder loan from the chief executive.
EPE Special Opportunities (EO.P) had an NAV of 301p/share at the end of July 2025. There was an interim cash outflow of £1.82m. Cash was £6.58m at the end of July 2025.
SulNOx Group (SNOX) has signed an agreement with marine equipment distributor C-Quip Ltd to supply fuel emissions reduction product Sulnox Eco in the UK leisure marine market.
Astrid Intelligence (ASTR) has issued 575.2 million shares to Oak Securities at 0.1p each. Astrid Intelligence director Olivia Edwards bought 17.5 million shares at 0.147p each. There are plans to apply for an OTC quotation in the US.
Oscillate (MUSH) has appointed SP Angel as joint broker alongside corporate adviser Peterhouse.
Fintech company Amazing AI (AAI) raised £1.04m at 1p/share. This will fund the Bitcoin treasury policy.
Hub Affiliations Holdings has raised its stake in NYCE International (NYCE) from 10% to 19.9%.
ASSET MATCH
Marshall of Cambridge (MCH) had a tough year, and land systems and fleet solutions made losses. Ther are also large write offs. The total loss for 2024 was £123m. Fleet solutions has been sold, and land systems is being marketed for sale. Overheads have been reduced. Approval for the sale of the ex-RAF C-130 fleet should be received during September. A further loss is expected this year.
JP JENKINS
Mobile Tornado (MBT) cancelled its quotation on AIM on 9 September and joined JP Jenkins on 9 September.
Airline ecommerce services provider Datalex (DLE) cancelled its quotation on Euronext Growth Dublin and moved to JP Jenkins on 12 September.
AIM
Concrete levelling equipment supplier Somero Enterprises (SOM) is still suffering from uncertain conditions in the US, but sales are also declining in other markets. There is lower activity in larger scale projects. Interim revenues fell 23% to $39.8m, while pre-tax profit slumped 52% to $5.4m. Annual cost savings of $6m have been made. Full year pre-tax profit is forecast to fall from $25.4m to $15.3m.
Medical device developer Belluscura (BELL) has appointed Guy Peters as a director. He advised Omaha Value which previously proposed funding for the company. The period of exclusivity for a potential buyer of US business Belluscura LLC has expired. Omaha Value and a partner have reapproached Belluscura for another funding proposal. Trading in the shares remains suspended.
Scotch whisky supplier Artisanal Spirits Company (ART) was hit by tariff uncertainty in the first half. The way whisky is exported to the US has changed to minimise the impact of any tariffs. Revenues dipped 4% to £9.68m due to the delayed shipments to the US. There was growth in European subscribers, helped by a deal with AMEX, but a decline in North America and the rest of the world. The loss increased to £3.6m. Net debt was £29.5m at the end of June 2025.
Fulcrum Metals (FMET) says the Teck-Hughes tailings project drilling has started and initial assays ae up to 1.2g/t gold. This is producing data for a mineral resource estimate. Phase 3 testing of the Extrakt technology will provide processing data. This will go towards the preliminary feasibility study.
There has been another upgrade for embedded computer products manufacturer Concurrent Technologies (CNC) following its interims. Revenues were one-quarter higher at £21.1m and pe-tax profit was £2.7m. Cavendish has upgraded its 2025 pre-tax profit forecast from £6m to £6.2m. The fastest growth was in systems. The US facility move has happened and the move to the new UK facility is on course. First half design wins were worth £90m.
Franchised lettings and property sales business The Property Franchise Group (TPFG) has continued its progress with organic growth on top of the benefits of acquisitions. Interim revenues were 50% ahead at £40.3m, while the pro forma increase was 8%. Pre-tax profit was 59% higher at £14.5m, while underlying earnings were 29% ahead at 16.7p/share. The interim dividend is 17% higher at 7p/share. Net debt was £10.9m at the end of June 2025. The fastest growth was in financial services, but even the core property business was 7% ahead on a pro forma basis. The number of lettings properties has declined, as the market becomes tougher for individual landlords.
UK regulatory changes hit UK revenues at Gaming Realms (GMR), but the mobile games developer continues to grow strongly in North America. Interim revenues were 18% ahead at £16m, helped by an increase in brand licensing from £300,000 to £2.4m – that is lumpier in terms of generating revenues. The UK games will be adapted for the new regulations by the end of the year, and revenues should recover.
Floorcoverings distributor Likewise (LIKE) reported interim revenues rising from £70.7m to £77.9m in a weak market. Margins are improving and pre-tax profit jumped from £330,000 to £740,000. Tax losses are still being used up.
Cosmetics supplier Warpaint London (W7L) had a tough first half with the administration of a major customer of the Technics brand and volatile US tariffs making it difficult to price potential orders in the US. An initial contribution from Brand Architekts helped group revenues to grow 8% to £49.3m. Pre-tax profit fell by 41% to £6.4m, although earnings we 13% down to 8.5p/share due to reduced tax charge. There was a gain on the Brand Architekts puchase, but that was more than offset by foreign exchange losses. The interim dividend was raised by 14% to 4p/share.
Interim figures from cross-border payments services provider Finseta (FIN) were disappointing due to customers delaying US dollar transactions due to foreign exchange volatility. Revenues were 16% higher at £5.9m and gross margins declined from 65.7% to 62.7%. Operating costs increased due to expansion plans. The newer offices will not make much of a contribution this year and will hold back profit.
It is still early days in the transformation of Gaming machines hardware and displays supplier Nexteq (NXQ) and interim revenues dropped from $48.2m to $40.7m, while pre-tax profit slumped from $5m to $900,000. Second quarter trading showed some improvement. More mid-level gaming equipment was sold, so that hits margins. Net cash was $28.1m. Share buybacks continue.
Angle (AGL) chief executive Andrew Newland and finance director Ian Griffiths have stepped down from the board following discussions with investors. There are no immediate replacements. This follows the latest interims from the cancer diagnostics company. Interim revenues fell by one-fifth to £800,000. Net loss increased from £7.7m to £9.3m. Net cash was £5.3m at the end of June 2025. Cash lasts until the first quarter of 2026. Cavendish has been appointed as nominated adviser and broker. A new management team may make it easier to raise cash from investors in the coming months. The current strategy could be changed.
Builders merchant Lords Group Trading (LORD) grew interim revenues by 8% to £232.1m with like-for-like growth of 7%. This is before the acquisition of online building products retailer CMO. Net debt was £20.9m at the end of June 2025. Cavendish forecasts a recovery in 2025 pre-tax profit from £3.8m to £6.7m.
Sylvania Platinum (SLP) produced 104,233 ounces of platinum group minerals in 2024-25 and this should increase significantly this year. Revenues increased from $81.7m to $104.2m. EBITDA rose from $13.5m to $29.3m, while cash reached $60.9m. There is an undrawn overdraft facility. The Thaba chrome joint venture will ramp up production this year.
Public affairs services provider Public Policy Holding Company (PPHC) grew organically by 8% in the first half of 2025. Acquisitions helped revenues increase 24% to $87.9m. Net income was one-fifth higher at $15.6m, helped by a lower tax rate. Net debt is $42.2m. Full year forecasts have been tweaked, but operating profit is still expected to rise from $36m to $44.5m. There are plans for a Nasdaq listing and a share consolidation. A general meeting will be held on 29 September.
Distribution Finance Capital (DFCH) is growing faster than expected and it is taking market share with its inventory financing product. Underlying interim pre-tax profit, excluding last year’s one-off gain, improved from £7.5m to £9m. New loan originations were £828m in the first half and the loan book grew to £728m at the end of June 2025. Bad debt provisions were 0.63%. The first half growth was before any contribution from the new asset finance product, where the first loans were in the second half. The new business will be loss making in the second half. Even so, Panmure Liberum has upgraded its 2025 pre-tax profit forecast from £14.5m to £18m, helped by a higher than anticipated net interest margin. Net tangible assets are 70.2p/share.
MAIN MARKET
LED lighting and wiring accessories supplier Luceco (LUCE) grew interim revenues from £109.6m to £125.7m, helped by acquisitions, but pre-tax profit was flat at £8.9m. Like-for-like sales growth was 2%. The acquisition had lower margins and that is why the overall margins fell.
James Fisher (FSJ) reported flat underlying interim revenues of £191.9m, while underlying pre-tax profit was 5% ahead at £4.5m. Higher taxes meant that earnings were lower. Energy services did well, and defence returned to profit. Marine transport profit declined, but the outlook is positive. Disposals have put James Fisher in a stronger position, and it is likely to benefit from higher defence spending. Full year pre-tax profit is expected to be flat at £11.9m before sharp improvements in 2026 and 2027.
Centaur Media (CAU) has agreed to sell The Lawyer for £43m.
Roquefort Therapeutics (ROQ) plans to buy Coiled Therapeutics Inc, a spin-out from A2A Pharmaceuticals that holds the rights to AO-252, which targets the TACC3 protein for cancer. This treatment is in phase 1 clinical trials in the US. The payment for the company would be £30m in shares and the company’s name would be changed to Coiled Therapeutics. Exclusivity lasts until the end of January. Lyramid Pty Ltd and the MK Cell programme will be spun out of the group.
Andrew Hore
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 28 April 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Smarter Web Company (SWC), which was formerly Uranium Energy Exploration, joined Aquis on Thursday and it raised £1m at 2.5p/share. Smarter Web Company provides web design, development and marketing services. It generates income from an initial fee, annual hosting and optional marketing charge. Bitcoin payments are accepted. There are plans to grow through acquisition.
Marula Mining (MARU) is acquiring up to 70% of the Boteti lithium brines project in Botswana. There are three licences within the Makgadikgadi Desert Salt Pan. Marula Mining will issue 250,000 shares at 4p each to acquire the initial 50% interest, plus £10,000 worth of shares once due diligence is completed. Marula Mining will finance 100% of spending up until production. Once a feasibility study is successfully completed a further £250,000 of shares will be issue and e is the option to increase the interest to 70% through a further issue of £100,000 worth of shares.
Fenikso (FNK) has renegotiated the $11.5m loan from Savannah Investments. It will be settled for $5.76m and $2.5m will be made when the deal is signed. The other $3.26m will be paid by the end of the year. There should still be cash left on the balance sheet after the payments.
Valereum (VLRM) is not going to receive the £19m investment by DMC Markets. VLRM Markets will commence operations, open its Real-World Asset (RWA) Platform and launch its V-Wallet. This operation has a licence in El Salvador. Management has been involved in a delegation to the SEC concerning proposals to regulate digital assets.
Wishbone Gold (WSBN) is preparing to drill the main undrilled gold target at Red Setter Dome, near the Telfer gold miner. A major dome-like structure is similar to Telfer.
Adsure Services (ADS) says there is strong demand for its audit and assurance services.
Mendell Helium (MDH) has increased the subscription from £796,000 to £834,000. The subscription price is 2p/share.
TruSpine Technologies (TRU) has issued shares at 1.5p each to pay creditors totalling £107,000.
Nicholas Fairfax sold 27,900 shares in SulNOx Group (SNOX) at 80p each.
ASSET MATCH
Greenshields Agri (GAH) says UK farmland values are holding steady. Current net asset value is 162p/share.
AIM
Major shareholder Regent Gas Holdings has set up a company to make an offer of 68.5p/share in cash for energy assurance and optimisation services provider Inspired (INSE). Gas supplier Regent is the second largest shareholder with 29.4% and it owns convertible loan notes and warrants. Regent would prefer the focus to be reducing debt, which has already been cut following the December fundraising. This includes ending dividend payments. A strategic review will be started, so that debt can be eliminated by the end of 2026. Gresham House owns 29.7% of Inspired plus convertibles and warrants. It says that it will not accept the offer.
Selkirk Group (SELK) has made an approach to THG to acquire its MyProtein business for £400m-£600m, subject to due diligence, payable in cash and shares. THG has rejected the offer because of the valuation and the structure of the offer. Talks are not ongoing, but Selkirk could return to the potential deal if circumstances change. Management is assessing other reverse takeovers.
Foreign exchange services provider Argentex (AGFX) ran into financial problems because of currency volatility. IFX Payments is offering 2.49p/share in cash and the board is recommending the bid. It is also providing a £6.5m bridging loan. IFX Payments is interested in the technology that Argentex has developed.
Payment services provider Finseta (FIN) performed as anticipated in 2024, but higher costs for start-ups have hit the share price in recent weeks. In 2024, revenues were18% higher at £11.4m and pre-tax profit improved from £1.4m to £1.5m. There was no contribution from Canada or UAE, which start trading this year. There have been concerns about the problems at Argentex, but Finseta is a different business and is not allowed to take the type of risks taken by Argentex.
Rail software and services provider Tracsis (TRCS) had already warned of tough trading conditions prior to the interim results. Pre-exceptional and share-based payments profit fell from £1.8m to £235,000. The data, analytics and events division fell into loss because costs were higher than anticipated when work was won. This will hamper the full year contribution, although the second half is always stronger. Action will be taken to improve margins. The main concern is the continued uncertainty surrounding GB Railways. This could hold up spending in software and there was a reduction in investment in remote condition monitoring equipment due to delays in the CP7 spending period.
Software company Celebrus Technologies (CLBS) says 2024-25 revenues will be lower than expected at $38.6m, down from $40.9m last year, but pre-tax profit was in line with expectations at $8.7m, up from $7.6m. Net cash was $31m at the end of March 2025, following a property sale generating $3.9m. Celebrus Technologies is changing its revenue recognition policies to a monthly basis, rather than annually in the month of signing the contract. Annual recurring revenues will rise by 14% to $18.8m this year.
Productivity efficiency software provider ActiveOps (AOM) generated higher than expected revenues for the year to March 2025. The estimate has been raised 4% to £30.4m. Net recurring revenues were 108%. Annualised recurring revenues were 15% ahead despite the loss of a major customer. Net cash was £20.6m at the end of March 2025, which is nearly one-third of the market capitalisation. Pre-tax profit will be flat at £2.1m, with £2.3m forecast for this year.
Concrete levelling equipment supplier Somero Enterprises (SOM) is cautious about this year because of global uncertainties affecting buying decisions and the starts of projects. It is cutting 15% of its workforce. Cavendish has cut its 2025 pre-tax profit estimate by 18% to $21.3m, down from $25.4m in 2024.
Marketing data analysis company Ebiquity (EBQ) did better than expected in the second half, but pre-tax profit still fell from £9.7m to £6.5m. The first quarter of 2025 was ahead of management expectations. A modest recovery in pre-tax profit to £7.1m is forecast for this year and there is potential for further outperformance.
Enteq Technologies (NTQ) says that there is no likelihood of a bid for the company, and it has ended its formal sales process. Management will still talk to potential buyers for parts of the business. Spending is being reduced, and the energy services equipment supplier is seeking additional finance. There is $602,000 in the bank and that will last until mid-May. SABER equipment has been prepared for further testing.
Software training services provider Northcoders (CODE) returned to profit in 2024, but it has revealed that the 18-month Department for Education contract, worth £10m, will not be renewed. There will be a move to a regional model. Management is ready for this and believes it will win business.
The board of credit hire company Anexo (ANX) advises no action should be taken by shareholders following the announcement of a potential bid by DBAY Advisers, Alan Sellers and Samantha Moss. These shareholders already own 63%. The offer could be in loan notes or shares in a new holding company.
Great Western Mining Corporation (GWMO) says the mill construction is substantially complete at the 50%-owned Western Milling joint venture in Nevada. Initial trial production should start soon. There are already plans to expand capacity. This will require some third-party finance, and a specialised mine engineering company will be brought in.
Vast Resources (VAST) says the historical diamond parcel has been released by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, which held it for 15 years. The contents of the parcel exceeded expectations, and the sales process should start in one month. Vast Resources is in talks with third parties about an investment in the Baita Plai polymetallic mine. The diamond sale proceeds will help to pay off debt.
Premier African Minerals (LON: PREM) has raised £1.575m at 0.035p/share. This will be invested in plant at the Zulu lithium and tantalum project so that grades and tonnage can be improved. That will help in the attempt to reach a binding agreement for future development.
MAIN MARKET
Structural steel supplier Severfield (SFR) reassured investors that trading is in line with expectations, although trading conditions is likely to remain tough and margins are under pressure. The UK and Europe order book has risen to £440m, but that includes work at Fenchurch Street that will not contribute until 2026-27. Generally, decisions are slow. Management believes that there could be annual cost savings of up to £4m. Insurance will cover some of the costs for the bridge remediation. Chair Charlie Cornish bought 103,125 shares at 24p each.
Investors have reacted positively to the appointment of David Brown to the newly formed Investment Advisory Board of Fragrant Prosperity Holdings (FPP). He has experience in fintech and AI and could help to secure an acquisition for the shell. David Brown will work with directors Simon Retter and Richard Samuel to identify acquisition targets. He was a founder of AI-based supplier payments company Previse and payment platform Oxygen Finance.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 20 January 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
SulNOx Group (SNOX) has signed an agreement with Eastern Pacific Shipping, which will use the SulNOxEco additive on a minimum of 30 vessels for at least 18 months. The data from this evaluation could be used for marketing. Easten Pacific Shipping will introduce other potential shipping company clients, and it is subscribing for up to 11.7 million shares in tranches at 2p each. This will happen over the 18-month period. There will be a subscription of up to 4.72 million additional shares at 2p each, which will be over a three-year period. This could total up to 11.8% of the enlarged share capital.
Marula Mining (MARU) says that the Kinusi coper mine is selling a total of 1,000t to four commodity trading groups. The sales have been delayed but should be completed by the end of January. Metallurgical test work results are expected later in January. Management is seeking to secure offtake agreements and non-dilutive funding.
Kasei Digital Assets (KASH) is conducting a strategic review, which could include a departure from Aquis or return of cash to shareholders. Management believes that the outlook for the market for digital assets is positive. However, costs are negatively affecting performance. There is cash of £782,000 and digital assets of £4.26m.
Visum Technologies (VIS) has raised £100,000 from a convertible loan note issue. The conversion price is 0.5p/share. This will fund due diligence for potential acquisitions.
IntelliAM AI (INT) says David Richards is stepping down as chairman at the beginning of July.
Max Capital reduced its shareholding in WeCap (WCAP) from 8.09% to 7.94%. Brompton Asset Management has increased its stake in Global Connectivity (GCON) to 13.96%. RAJ Bailey bought 7,376 shares in Daniel Thwaites (THW) at 89p each.
AIM
Fortress Investment has raised its recommended bid for pubs and bars operators Loungers (LGRS) from 310p/share to 325p/share. Broker Singer did not believe that the original bid fully reflected the value of the business and argued that 375p/share would be a fairer value. Loungers at £338.3m was forecast to make a 2024-25 pre-tax profit of £18m, up from £13.9m last year, rising to £23.8m in 2025-26.
Fintech Fiinu (BANK) has signed heads of agreement for the first white-label deal for its Plugin Overdraft with a UK bank. It will provide a Banking-as-a-Service platform including Plugin Overdraft and requires regulatory approval and testing. The bank will have exclusivity in the UK for 12-months from launch, which could be in the fourth quarter of 2025. There will be royalty fees based on profit generated by the bank from the Plugin Overdraft.
Thor Explorations (THX) says that the Segilola mine in Nigeria produced 24,6000 ounces of gold, taking the total for 2024 to 85,000 ounces. Guidance for 2025 is 85,000 ounces-95,000 ounces. The all in sustaining costs are expected to be $808/ounce. Thor Explorations has moved into a net cash position. Exploration is focused on extending the life of the mine beyond 2028. Thee were positive results announced earlier in January. There should be news concerning the Nigerian federal authorities into the Osun state authorities allegations of underpayment of tax. The PFS for the Douta project in Senegal should be released in the first quarter of 2025.
Michael Ashcroft wants data and information publisher Merit Group (MRIT) to leave AIM. This follows his success in persuading Jaywing (JWNG) to back his AIM cancellation plan for the marketing services business. He owns 42% of Merit Group, so he has a high chance of success. A general meeting will be set within 21 days.
Deltex Medical Group (DEMG) also announced plans to leave AIM. This will save £200,000/year. Last year’s revenues from sales of heart monitoring systems improved from £1.8m to £2.1m and cash was £240,000 at the end of 2024. Andy Mears will be replaced as chief executive by Natalie Wettler.
Quantum Blockchain Technologies (QBT) has made a breakthrough for its Bitcoin Artificial Intelligence model mining tool. The Method C AI Oracle can skip calculations if it assesses that they will not be successful. This provides a 30% improved performance compared with other methods. The company is ready to demonstrate the technology and is seeking a chip manufacturing partner to produce a commercial product.
Gift wrap supplier IG Design (IGR) customers did not sell as much as expected over the Christmas period and this has hit orders. On top of the weak demand, there are US customers in financial difficulties. The fourth largest customer has re-entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and total provisions will be around $15m.The American business is predominantly behind the 10% slump in revenues, although the international business revenues were 1% lower. IG Design is only expected to breakeven in the year to March 2025, compared with forecast pre-tax profit of $32m, and forecasts have been withdrawn by Canaccord Genuity.
Security technology supplier Thruvision (THRU) announced a strategic review. Management believes that additional funding will be required to scale up the business. There is currently cash of £1.5m, which will last until May unless potential orders are secured. The cost base will be assessed. Alternatives include bringing in a partner or selling the business.
Digital healthcare platform developer Trellus Health (TRLS) has entered an agreement with Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems Inc for a US pilot programme for Trellus Elevate to support severe inflammatory bowel disease. Trellus Health will receive an upfront licence fee and a monthly fee. Net cash was $8m at the end of June 2024 and the additional income could help to extend the cash runway nearer to the end of 2025.
Pawnbroker Ramsdens (RFX) says improved performances from all divisions helped group revenues improve from £83.8m to £95.6m, while pre-tax profit rose from £10.1m to £11.4m. The dividend was raised from 10.4p/share to 11.2p/share. This year has started well. and management has decided to slow the new store opening programme. There will be more focus on the website.
Packaging equipment and automation provider Mpac Group (MPAC) confirms 2024 trading is in line with expectations. Pre-tax profit should recover from £7.1m to £10.5m. Net debt was £37m at the end of 2024. The order book is worth £111m and covers 53% of forecast 2025 revenues.
Telecoms infrastructure products developer Filtronic (FTC) has appointed David Marshall as director of programmes to ensure their efficient delivery. Sarah Shaw becomes General Counsel to manage commercial contracts and other legal affairs. This follows a positive trading statement that led to Cavendish upgrading its 2024-25 pre-tax profit forecast from £9.6m to £11.5m.
Construction recruitment services provider Hercules Site Services (HERC) has decided to sell its suction excavators business to focus on recruitment. The suction excavators were losing money and holding back performance. The disposal will also reduce borrowings. Labour supply revenues increased from £63.8m to £84.1m. Continuing pre-tax profit improved from £1.6m to £2.6m and further improvement to £3.4m is expected for this year.
Bars and leisure operator XP Factory (XPF) grew like-for-like revenues by 8.5% in the third quarter, which is well above the rate for the rest of the year. The figure for the year so far is 5.5%. Immersive escape rooms operator Escape Hunt was 14% ahead and Boom Battle Bars 17% higher over the Christmas period.
Cross-border payment services provider Finseta (FIN) says 2024 EBITDA will be £2m compared to a forecast of £1.9m. There was £2.2m of cash generated from operating activities. The benefits from investment in the business and new products will show through in 2025.
Premier African Minerals (PREM) has raised £1.2m from a placing at 0.0275p/share. A retail offer could raise up to £2.3m more. The cash will be invested in the Zulu project in Zimbabwe and to pay suppliers. The retail offer closes on 20 January. Some creditors may take shares for the money owed. If the cash raised in the placing and offer plus the capitalisation of debts does not get near to £3.5m the placing and offer will not proceed.
Cambridge Nutritional Sciences (CNSL) has settled its dispute with the UK DHSC with no admission of liability. The DHSC will not seek reimbursement of pre-production payments for Covid tests and Cambridge Nutritional Sciences will not claim for losses for failure to replace orders. The company will have legal costs of £200,000, but it will also release £2.5m from deferred income as exceptional income.
Cannabis-based medicines developer Celadon Pharmaceuticals (CEL) says that the strategic collaboration with Valeos Pharma is contributing to its business. This will enable the acceleration of supply of pharmaceutical grade EU-GMP cannabis active pharmaceutical ingredient products. Valeos Pharma will provide up to three tonnes of annual cultivation capacity, which is equivalent to £8.7m of income/year.
Gaming machines hardware and displays supplier Nexteq (NXQ) had net cash of $29.1m at the end of 2024, which is more than 50% of market capitalisation. Trading problems had already been flagged and there was no additional surprise. There was destocking and delayed product launches by customers. Revenues were 24% lower at $86.7m, which was slightly better than forecast. The results will be published on 19 March.
Supercapacitors developer Cap-XX (LON: CPX) has made its first shipment of co-branded products to electronic components distributor SCHURTER’S warehouse in Switzerland. On delivery, an invoice will be raised.
Construction and property asset management software supplier Eleco (ELCO) has acquired maintenance and management software provider PEMAC for €6m in cash with up to €2.4m payable based on achieving performance targets. Clients include Coca Cola and Heineken. This fits well with the existing ShireSysem product.
Argo Group Ltd (ARGO) is making a tender offer at 5p/share as part of its plan to leave AIM. Shareholders owning 71.2% of the company will not tender shares, so everyone else can have their shares acquired in the tender. The tender closes on 14 February.
MAIN MARKET
Packaging manufacturer and distributor Macfarlane Group (MACF) has acquired protective packaging manufacturer Pitreavie for £18m, with a net initial payable after debt movements of £10.6m. Pitreavie made a 2024 pre-tax profit of £1.3m. There should be cost savings from integrating the business.
Online travel hostel agency Hostelworld (HSW) says strong demand for Asian hostels helped 2024 net bookings rise 6% to 6.9 million, although there was a dip in average booking value. That meant that revenues were 1% lower at €92m. Lower marketing spend meant that margins improved. More bookings were made through the company’s app. Pre-tax profit is expected to jump to €17m. Net cash is €2m. There will be an update on strategy in the second quarter.
Bitcoin miner Vinanz (BTC) switched from Aquis to the Main Market on 13 January. The share price opened at 16.5p and rose to 22.5p before falling back to 16.5p at the end of the week.
Argo Blockchain (ARB) has been told it has until 15 July to regain compliance on Nasdaq with the minimum price requirement of $1 for its ADSs.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 16 September 2024
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Exchange services provider Aquis Exchange (AQX), which is also quoted on the Aquis Stock Exchange, has already warned that the loss of a software contract will hit revenues this year. Net interim revenues were still 4% ahead at £10m. Pre-tax profit was 8% lower at £1.1m. There was a small dip in revenues of the core exchange division. Net cash was £14.5m at the end of June 2024. There are plans to increase investment in technology to increase the addressable market, so year-end cash will be slightly lower than expected at £15.1m.
SulNOx Group (SNOX) increased revenues from £203,000 to £544,000, but the loss was still around £1.9m. Cash was £2.15m at the end of June 2024. A generator-based study for the SulNOxEco fuel additive shows fuel savings of 15%.
Ananda Developments (ANA) has raised up to £2.1m via a placing and offer at 0.3p/share and more than £2m has come from Charles Morgan, the company chairman. Charles Morgan and Melissa Sturgess have agreed to capitalised debt owed to them. The cash will fund the manufacture of MRX1 for CIPN and Endometriosis phase II studies, as well as a pharmacokinetic study for MRX1 in Australia.
Newbury Racecourse (NYR) improved interim revenues 16% to £9.28m, while the cost base rose 11%. The loss was reduced from £649,000 to £352,000. The remainder of the year is expected to be difficult.
The increase in the value of the 15% stake held by Global Connectivity (GCON) lead to the July 2024 rising from £7.8m to £17.2m in a six-month period. That is 4.25p/share.
Walls and Futures REIT (WAFR) reported a 4.5% decrease in NAV to 85p/share, although investment property value rose 2.4%. The was reduced to £44,000. The company is finding it difficult to raise additional funds.
Ace Liberty and Stone (ALSP) maintained revenues at £5.6m. There is 96% occupancy of the group properties. NAV fell from £34.4m to £31.7m at the end of April 2024.
Voyager Life (VOY) says that M3 Helium’s preparations for bringing the Rost1-26 well into production are advanced. Voyager Life has an option to acquire M3 Helium.
Cooks Coffee Company (COOK) increased sales by 23% to £13.8m in the 22 weeks to 1 September. The main growth was in the UK stores. Ten further outlets ae expected to open by the end of the financial year.
Investment company EPE Special Opportunities Ltd (EO.P) reported a reduced loss because there was a gain on fair value movements on investments compared with a loss last time. There was cash of £18.4m at the end of July 2024. NAV was 319p/share at the end of July, and it fell back to 314p/share by the end of August.
Warrants held by lupus treatment developer ImmuPharma (IMM) to subscribe for shares in Incanthera (INC) at 9.5p each have been extended to the end of March 2025 in return for a £75,0000 payment by ImmuPharma.
BWA Group (BWAP) chairman Jonathan Wearing has subscribed for 50 million shares at 0.5p each.
Jonathan Adnams has stepped down as chairman of Adnams (ADB) because of ill health. Simon Townsend will be interim chairman.
AIM
Greatland Gold (GGP) shares returned from suspension after announcing the purchase of Newmont Corporation’s 70% stake in the Havieron gold-copper project, as well as 100% ownership of the Telfer gold-copper mine and other assets in the Paterson region. The total cost is $475m in cash and shares. A placing raised £248.6m ($325m) at 4.8p each, which is a 30% discount to the market price. Wyloo is subscribing up to $100m and Newmont Corporation will own more than 20% of the gold explorer. A retail offer raised £6.7m.
Marlowe (MRL) is demerging the occupational health division as an independent AIM company called Optima Health by the end of September. Shareholders will receive one share for each Marlowe share held. Marlowe will focus on testing, inspection and certification operations. So far, £41m of the £75m share buy back has been spent. Marlowe continuing revenues are forecast to be £306m and pre-tax profit £13m.
Energy optimisation services provider Inspired (INSE) interim revenues edged up from £44.6m to £45m and pre-tax profit dipped from £6.2m to £5.7m. That was lower than forecast. Optimisation revenues declined, but product mix meant that margins were better. Cross-selling is helping to grow the ESG division and other parts of the business. Net debt is £57.6m. There is only £2.2m of contingent consideration due to be paid. Debt should start to decline over the next few years.
Chain and transmission equipment Renold (RNO) has made another earnings enhancing acquisition. Canada-based MAC Chain Company is being bought for $31.4m. This fits well with the CVC business and enables expansion into the forestry market. Last year’s pre-tax profit was $3.5m.
Optimisation software provider Checkit (CKT) reported a flat loss of £2.3m on the back of a 16% increase in interim revenues to £6.7m. However, the full year figure is set to fall from £4.2m to £3.9m. Annualised recurring revenues are £13.8m and that underpins the full year revenues forecast of £14.2m. Net cash was £7m at the end of July 2024 and higher R&D spending means that year-end cash is likely to be slightly lower than previously expected at around £5m. Chairman Keith Daley bought 135,000 shares at 21p each.
Cross-border currency payments services provider Finseta (FIN) reported a sharp increase in first half profit, although investment in growing the business will hold back profit in the short-term. There was a £100,000 contribution from the final payment relating to the licencing agreement with Avila House. The loss of that income, a higher depreciation charge and additional overheads for new operations such as a corporate Mastercard and a Canadian office means that full year pre-tax profit could dip from £1.4m to £1.3m. The benefits of the investment will be seen next year with an expected jump in pre-tax profit to £2.5m.
Contract research and infectious disease study services provider hVIVO (HVO) reported 2024 revenues 31% ahead at £35.6m, while pre-tax profit improved from £4.18m to £7.15m. The new Canary Wharf site has opened and provides additional capacity. Cash was slightly lower than anticipated at £37.1m.
Gaming machines hardware and displays supplier Nexteq (NXQ) was hit by destocking in both of its divisions. Interim revenues and profit were expected to fall. Interim revenues were 14% lower at $48.2m. Net cash reached $36.9m. The full year revenues forecast is being maintained at $93.9m to £114.3m.
Packaging equipment and automation provider Mpac Group (MPAC) reports a strong improvement in first half figures, although the comparatives were weak. Revenues improved from £52.8m to £60m, while pre-tax profit rebounded from £1.9m to £4m. The closing order book is £71.4m. Net debt is £4.9m and should be lower at the year end.
Trading in Eurasia Mining (EUA) shares has resumed following the publication of 2023 accounts late on Friday. Net cash was £1.1m at the end of 2023. The company has also agreed a one year working capital facility for up to £2.5m. The loan lasts until next August and is convertible at 2.7p/share. There are five tranches with around £1m of the loan dependent on a term sheet to sell the Russian asset. The lender will receive a payment of 12.5% of the facility, plus 5% of any draw downs, in shares at 2.3p each.
Shore Capital upgraded animal feed additives supplier Anpario (ANP) after it reported an 11% increase in interim revenues of £17m on the back of a much greater rise in volumes and slightly lower pricing. Raw material costs have stabilised. Full year revenues expectations have been raised from £33m to £34m, while the pre-tax profit estimate is increased from £3.9m to £4.4m, up from £3.5m in 2023.
Fulcrum Metals (FMET) is raising £643,500 at 8p/share and directors will subscribe for an additional £114,500 once the interims are published. The cash will be invested in the Teck-Hughes and Sylvanite gold tailings projects in Canada. This should enable nearer-term revenues Management will also review opportunities for exploration drilling on the Tully and Big Bear prospects and a potential technology testing facility in Ontario.
MAIN MARKET
LED lighting and wiring accessories supplier Luceco (LUCE) interim revenues improved 8% to £109.6m and underlying pre-tax profit rebounded from £9.4m to £11.2m. Like-for-like growth was 3.6%. The interim dividend was improved from 1.6p/share to 1.7p/share. LED lighting revenues declined, while portable power and wiring accessories revenues improved. Panmure Liberum forecasts a full year pre-tax profit improvement from £21.2m to £23m.
Hostmore (MORE) has terminated the proposed acquisition of the TGI Friday’s master franchise owner. The sale of corporate stores has reached an advanced stage. However, the proceeds may be lower than the value of related borrowings so there will be no return for the company. Once the sale is complete the holding company will be wound up.
Critical Metals (CRTM) has raised £50,000 from NIU Invest and has entered into a term sheet for a cash injection of up to £2.5m. NIU has already invested £1.1m in convertible loan notes as is the latest investment. The conversion price is 2p/share. NIU is also receiving warrants exercisable at 0.5p/share.
Shell company Ikigai Ventures (IKIV) has been moved to the new, temporary shell category. This provides one year to comply with additional requirements and a further two years to make an acquisition.
Andrew Hore