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Quoted Micro 30 March 2026

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Executive recruiter Connecting Excellence (XCE) increased net fee income by one-fifth to £890,000 in the six months to December 2025. There was cash of £1.4m and Bitcoin holdings of £2.62m (40.36 Bitcoin). Net fee income in January was £250,000. The Bitcoin holding has increased to 52.42 Bitcoin.

Residential property developer Zentra (ZNT) interim revenues fell from £1.97m to £942,000. The loss rose from £66,000 to £638,000. Net liabilities are £4.16m. Practical completion of the One Victoria project in Manchester is expected in the second quarter of 2026.

Mendell Helium (MDH) says potential acquisition M3 Helium is entering an agreement with Ritchie Exploration which will re-complete the Schneweis Ventures 13A well in Kansas.

Arbuthnot Banking (ARBB) reported a dip in 2025 pre-tax profit from £35.1m to £24.2m. The total underlying dividend, excluding special dividend, was raised to 53p/share. Deposits increased by 11% to £4.57bn, although lending balances fell 6% to £2.25bn. Assets under management were 21% ahead at £2.68bn. Higher interest rates should be good for the bank. Chairman and chief executive Sir Henry Angest bought 300,000 ordinary shares at 860p each. He owns 59.9% of ordinary shares and 64.9% of the non-voting shares.

B HODL (HODL) net assets were £11.7m at the end of 2025. Since the end of the year, the Bitcoin treasury has increased to 164.487 Bitcoin.

EPE Special Opportunities (EO.P) had net assets of 360p/share at the end of January 2026. Fully listed investee company Luceco (LUCE) performed better than expected.

EDX Medical (EDX) is the primary partner in the Scottish Prostate Cancer Initiative, which is set to improve early diagnosis. Up to 25,000 men will be tested.

Delta Gold Technologies (DGQ) says that Penn State University has been promoting the quantum computing research sponsorship and technology licence agreement with the company.

The WeShop share price on Nasdaq continues to decline and reached a new low of $5.81 at the end of the week compared with a high of $200. WeCap (WCAP) is a significant shareholder, and its share price dipped 27.8% to 0.325p.

Hamak Strategy has taken a 3.05% stake in Vaultz Capital (V3TC).

Sulnox Group (SNOX) has gained further patents for its Eco™ Fuel Conditioners in Chile, Peru and Israel.

VSA Capital (VSA) chief executive has bought 100,000 shares at 2.75p each, taking his stake to 19.8%.

Equipmake (EQIP) chairman Tim Metcalfe bought 163,934 shares at 1.22p each.

Shepherd Neame (SHEP) non-exec Meg Lustman has bought 2,279 shares at 439p each.

Marula Mining (MARU) has secured an offtake contract with Traxys Europe for the Kinusi copper mine with initial deliveries in May. Traxys will purchase the full production.

Supersearch Plus (SSP) has appointed Guild Financial Advisory as corporate adviser.

AIM

Coiled Therapeutics (COIL), which was formerly Roquefort Therapeutics, has moved from the Main Market to AIM on 27 March after acquiring the global rights to a potential cancer treatment known as AO-252. This cost £31.9m in shares. AO-252 is “a brain-penetrant small molecule targeting Transforming Acidic Coiled-Coil Containing protein 3 (TACC3) protein-protein interactions”. Preclinical trials have indicated the effectiveness in tumour regression in some cancers. A placing raised £8.5m at 10p/share. valuing the company at £42.6m.

Monitoring and optimisation software supplier Checkit (CKT) says that its improving performance is not reflected in its valuation, and it is investigating a sale of the company. The company has received six expressions of interest from potential buyers in the past nine months. There are no current discussions with these potential acquirors, but Checkit believes it should give other potential bidders a chance.

Ireland-based cinema operator Omniplex has taken a 5.35% stake in Everyman Media Group (EMAN).

Carpet tiles manufacturer Airea (AIEA) is making progress with fully commissioning new manufacturing facilities that will double capacity. The business has been capacity constrained and delays in orders at the time of the Budget meant that 2025 revenues were flat at £21.4m. Operating profit before non-recurring items fell from £1.56m to £1.15m, although that partly reflects the loss of income from a property sold to help finance the increased manufacturing capacity. Net cash was £1.2m at the end of 2025 and the dividend was raised from 0.6p/share to 1p/share.

Growth in recurring revenues of the software division and a recovery in margins for the education services division enabled Tribal Group (TRB) enabled 2025 pre-tax profit to jump 136% to £12.5m. Annualised recurring revenues of the software business grew to £63m. There is growth to come from existing university and college clients before any new client wins. Strong cash flow meant that Tribal moved from net debt to net cash of £11.4m. Even after dividends, the cash position is expected to remain strong with the normal second half inflow.

Software and training services supplier Pennant International (PEN) has increased its recurring revenues and has orders that will help it to breakeven this year, following a loss in 2025.

Sustainable detergent additives supplier Itaconix (ITX) is making good progress towards breaking even. Revenues jumped from $6.5m to $10.5m in 2025 and there is capacity for this to increase to more than $25m. The loss was reduced from $1.8m to $1.1m with a $1.2m cash outflow from operated activities. European revenues doubled and new business in North America will flow through into revenues in 2026 and particularly 2027. There is more than $4m in cash in the bank, which is more than enough to get to cash flow positive. Cash generation could build up rapidly from 2027 onwards.

Shares in spirits brands owner Distil (DIS) halved to 0.045p following a trading statement outlining poor fourth quarter trading. Full year revenues will be well below expectations. Stock levels in the trade were higher than expected. Sales by the UK distributor are 51% ahead in the first two months of this year, but consumer spending remains depressed. The US launch of Blavod black vodka has been delayed due it still awaiting tax approval from the authorities. Marketing spending has been agreed with UK retailers to help sales to recover.

Litigation finance provider Burford Capital (BUR) announced on Friday afternoon that the US Court of Appeals had overturned the decision won by Burford’s Petersen and Eton Park concerning claims against The Republic of Argentina and YPF. There was a two to one ruling. Argentina had not made a tender offer when it took over a 51% stake in YPF from Repsol. The $16.1bn judgement was overturned.

Real-time video editing technology developer Blackbird (BIRD) lost contracts and that led to a decline in revenues from £1.61m to £1.38m in 2025. Cash burn was £3.01m after a reduction in costs. There was £2.72m in the bank at the end of 2025 and £500,000 has been subsequently raised. User engagement of elevate.io is improving and the Winter Olympics should have provided a boost to use of the editing technology.

Switch Metals (SWT) has announced the washing programme has been completed for the Issia tantalum and lithium in the Côte d’Ivoire. Laboratory assays and modelling is ongoing so that the maiden mineral resource estimate can be published. This had been expected in the first quarter of 2026.

Interim figures for Parkmead Group (PMG) had £12.9m in cash at the end of 2025 and since then the cash position has grown to £16.1m. This will provide funding for oil and gas and renewable asset investment. Up to £120m more can become payable for the past sale of UK North Sea assets depending on the approval of field developments.

Computer vision technology Seeing Machines (SEE) says that it expects to be EBITDA positive in the third and fourth quarters of the financial year to June 2026. Interim revenues dipped from $25.3m to $23.4m, due to planned reductions in non-core operations. Automotive royalties and aftermarket revenues both increased and gross margin improved to 58%. There will be a refinancing by June.

Small company finance provider Time Finance (TIME) increased own book lending to £86.5m in the third quarter. Nine months revenues are 4% higher at £28.3m, while pre-tax profit is up 5% to £6.2m. Net tangible assets are £48.5m. The lending book is worth £243.4m.

MAIN MARKET

Andrew Perloff has raised his stake in motor dealer Caffyns (LON: CFYN) from 20.2% to 22.2%.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 23 March 2026

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Brewer Shepherd Neame (SHEP) reported flat interim revenues and pre-tax profit of £84.7m and £4.2m respectively. Net debt is £84.7m and a £1m share buyback is planned. The dividend has been raised 3% to 4.5p/share. NAV is 1234p/share. Pubs traded strongly and that offset lower brewing volumes, which fell 6.6% representing a slowdown in the rate of decline. Over 37 weeks the like-for-like growth in retail pub sales it 4.4%, while tenanted pubs are 3% ahead over 35 weeks. Panmure Liberum forecasts a full year pre-tax profit of £7.7m, rising to £8.4m next year.

Stack BTC (STAK) raised £1.9m at 10p/share, including £94,700 from a retail offer. The cash will be used to fund acquisitions and purchase of Bitcoin. AlbR has been appointed as joint corporate broker.

Biotech company Cardiogeni (CGNI) has agreed a deal where Kira Health Invest AG will acquire 67.5% of subsidiary Cell Therapy in return for a 32.5% shareholding in Kira’s hotels and wellness clinics subsidiary Lumen Clinics, which has assets of more than €100m. Kira will make available to Cell Therapy up to $25m to fund the cost of achieving market approval for heart failure medicine CLXR-001. This will fund a phase 2b clinical study and provide enough cash for three years. This funding would be difficult to obtain in current stockmarkets.

S-Ventures (SVEN) is raising up to £2m at 3.5p/share and invest in HDL, a drone technology business. HDL is developing hybrid unmanned aerial vehicles and intends to raise cash from investors to finance progress. S-Ventures will invest up to £1.5m and could take a board position.

Marula Mining (MARU) says assay results from the Kilifi manganese processing plant indicate the potential for a significant manganese grade uplift from processing from four areas.

Investors were disappointed with drilling news from Wishbone Gold (WSBN) concerning Red Setter project in Western Australia, which is near to the Telfer mine.

BWA Holdings (BWAP) had a cash outflow from operations of £99,500 in the six months to December 2025. There was £47,666 in cash at the end of 2025.

Patrick Chophard and Oliver Murphy have stepped down from the Ethtry (ETHY) board and Steve Winfield has returned as an executive director. Ethtry says it plans to “concentrate on building a scalable platform at the intersection of digital infrastructure and next-generation computing, with particular emphasis on opportunities across data centre infrastructure, artificial intelligence and emerging quantum technologies”. There is also an Ethereum treasury policy.

B HODL (HODL) has bought one Bitcoin for £53,363. The total holding is 163.487 Bitcoin at an average cost of £82,319 each.

Coinsilium (COIN) has completed a strategic investment in Singapore-based Predictive Labs. It spent $150,000 for a 5.52% stake and Coinsilium could subscribed for shares to increase it to 16.3%. Additional options could take the stake to 29.85%.

Sulnox Group (SNOX) says results of an independent laboratory evaluation of Sulnox Eco™ confirmed full compatibility across all fuels tested and showed performance benefits.

Zentra Group (ZNT) has earned a £350,000 fee for the sale of the One Heritage Tower site. The residential developer has entered into a relationship agreement with majority shareholder GKU.

IntelliAM (INT) has appointed Cavendish as corporate adviser and broker.

TechFinancials (TECH) is changing its name to Ubuntu Mining and Metals Inc.

Hot Rocks Investments (HRIP) has reduced its stake in Mendell Helium (MDH) from 6.5% to 4.69%. Mustapha and Maya El Khalil have a 7.46% shareholding in Ace Liberty and Stone (ALSP).

Ajax Resources (AJAX) chief executive Ippolito Ingo Cattaneo bought 123,840 shares at 7.25p each and Richard Heyward acquired 33,172 shares at 7.536p each. BWA (BWAP) non-exec John Byfield bought 2.22 million shares at 0.225p each. VSA Capital (VSA) finance director Galin Ganchev bought an initial 32,833 shares at 3p each. Equipmake (EQIP) chairman Tim Metcalfe bought 682,730 shares at 1.245p each.

AIM

River Global (RVRG) plans to sell the asset management business it has built up to fully listed Liontrust Asset Management (LIO). The initial consideration will be £7.6m in Liontrust shares, followed by up to £2.1m shares depending on certain revenues being achieved. The deal will also release capital from the business. The Liontrust shares will be distributed to A share holders. The B shares are unaffected. The remaining interest will be a structured 30% interest in Parmenion, which is a high growth investment platform. Shareholders and the FCA have to approve the deal.

Pawnbroker Ramsdens Holdings (RFX) has published a second update in two months and it has sparked another forecast increase. Full year pre-tax profit is expected to be £24m, compared with £21.1m previously. Precious metals buying continues to boom with a 50% increase in volumes. Jewellery retail is 25% ahead, while pawnbroking is at record levels and forex is in line with expectations.

Africa-focused oil and gas company Afentra (AET), along with Sonangol and Etablissements Maurel & Prom S.A., is jointly acquiring Etu Energias’ 10% stake in block 3/05 and 13.33% stake in block 3/05A in Angola. Afentra will buy 3.33% and 3.66% of these bocks respectively. This will cost $15.2m, plus contingent consideration of up to $6.74m. The effective date of the transaction will be the end of 2023. Afentra has also launched a strategic review following bid approaches.

Retailer TheWorks.co.uk (WRKS) is closing its online channel and moving to a non-transactional website. Online is making a small and reducing contribution to revenues. There will be exceptional costs of £2m. There are plans to open more stores. Like-for-like growth has been 3.3% this year and the company expects to meet market EBITDA expectations of £11m, or £13.5m for continuing activities. Without the online loss, 2026-27 EBITDA has been upgraded from £12.7m to £15m.

Franchised lettings and property sales business The Property Franchise Group (LSE: TPFG) is well positioned for the Renters Rights bill coming into effect. In 2025, revenues were one-quarter higher at £84.3m. Organic growth was 9%. Underlying pre-tax profit improved from £22.3m to £31m, which was better than expected. Earnings jumped from 29.1p/share to 36.5p/share. Net debt has fallen to £2.3m and there will be net cash by the end of 2026.

Diagnostics developer and manufacturer Abingdon Health (ABDX) is benefiting from strong contract development revenues. Interim revenues were 44% higher at £4.5m. the loss was reduced from £2.6m to £2.3m. Capacity is being increased in North America, and this is helping to win new contracts. The full year loss is expected to fall from £3.2m to £1.7m.

Gaming technology and displays supplier Nexteq (NXQ) is diversifying its customer base and this helped when its major customer got taken over. Revenues improved 4% to $90.2m in 2025, while pre-tax profit fell by one-quarter to $3.6m. A further decline to $2m is expected this year, although the $25m cash pile could be used to acquire a business to boost profitability.

Payment services provider Boku (BOKU) increased 2025 revenues by 30% to $128.8m with the main growth coming from digital wallets and bundling. Active users are 31% higher at 114.4 million. Operating profit trebled to £18.9m. The company’s cash increased to £102.9m. The momentum is continuing. Boku intends to repurchase up to 4 million shares. Former boss Jon Prideaux is stepping down from the board.

Chemotherapy drugs developer CRISM Therapeutics (CRTX) has gained orphan drug designation from the US FDA for irinotecan for the treatment of malignant glioma. This utilises the company’s ChemoSeed technology, which is an implantable, biodegradable technology designed for the localised and sustained delivery of chemotherapy directly into cancer tissue. The orphan drug status will enhance the profile of the commercial development programme.

Strategic Minerals (SML) is raising £4.7m at 3.5p/share. A prominent international investor approached the company. The cash will be spent on the Redmoor Tungsten-Tin-Copper project in Cornwall. Following the fundraising, there was news concerning improvements in tungsten and silver recovery. Tungsten recovery is 85.8% and silver recovery is 58.7%. This will boost the forthcoming mineral resource estimate.

Cyber security services and software provider Shearwater Group (SWG) has grown interim revenues by 31% to £14m, but there was a loss. Contracts are being renewed and there is a good base for the second half. Net cash was £2.2m. Full year revenues are set to rise from £31.6m to £35.5m, and pre-tax profit is expected to be £1.1m.

Digital loyalty and promotions platform operator Eagle Eye (EYE) had a good first half and annualised recurring revenues were 3% ahead at £42.2m despite the loss of a major contract. There was a sharp decline in profit, but cash generated covered capital investment. The second half should mark the bottom for Eagle Eye before a strong bounce back next year. Pre-tax profit could slump to £900,000 this year before rebounding to £3m next year.

Retail software provider itim Group (ITIM) says 2025 revenues will be below 2024 levels at around £17.5m due to delays in contract wins. Former AIM-quoted retailer Quiz went into administration and that has increased the expected loss to £500,000. Cost savings could help itim breakeven in 2026 on limited growth in revenues.

Virgin Wines (VINO) is starting to see the benefits of its new strategy. There was a 40% increase in customers acquired in the first half and the new mobile app is yet to be fully launched. Interim revenues were 2% higher at £34.7m in a deteriorating market and growth has accelerated in the pre-Christmas period and accelerated further in January and February. Investment in the strategy led to a swing from profit to loss. Share buybacks continue.

Market research services provider Systems1 (SYS1) is trading in line with expectations and strong momentum has enabled a forecast upgrade for 2026-27. There have also been cost reductions. The current year forecast is maintained at £2.1m, down from £5.2m. A pre-tax profit of £4.5m is expected for 2026-27, up from £2.7m previously, based on unchanged revenues of £39.1m.

CPPGroup (CPP) says it has been told that it will not receive any of the potential $5m deferred consideration for its former business in India. CPPGroup is considering its options, but if it does not receive any cash it will have to raise funding within 12 months.

Concierge technology platform provider Ten Lifestyle (TENG) has increased first half EBITDA by 16% to £1m despite unfavourable foreign exchange movements. Active members are 23% higher at 436,000. Net cash is £9.3m.

Logistics Development Group (LDG) says 50.7%-owned WS Holdco has acquired transport and logistics business EV Cargo Solutions and Distribution. The combined business will have annual sales of more than £300m.

MAIN MARKET

Foam manufacturer Zotefoams (ZTF) is making strong progress and produced record results in 2025. Pre-tax profit improved from £15.6m to £21.2m. The OKC acquisition made a small initial contribution. There was growth in Europe and North America. Footwear volumes were strong, but they are expected to ease back this year. Transport and smart technologies provide growth potential. Aerospace volumes have been recovering. Construction has been weak but there is potential for recovery.

Panther Metals (PALM) has announced two batches of assay results for the Winston tailings project. The first results showed good grade consistency and were better than the preliminary results published last year. The second assay results also showed better results than the preliminary results.

New Frontier Minerals (NFM) intends to accelerate activities at the NWQ copper project, including the Big One copper deposit where a mining lease is in the process of being obtained. There is a strong working capital position of A$2.62m with potential funding from grants and R&D rebates.

Singer Capital has initiated research on digital assets investor KR1 (KR1). The focus is increasing income to help the company to be self-funding and increasing exposure to Digital Asset Financial Infrastructure It set a 12-month target share price of 25p.

Nanoco (NANO) has entered a binding term sheet with Shoei to stay ongoing litigation with no compensation payable by either party. They will not sue each other for use of their respective quantum dot patents. A definitive agreement will be negotiated.

Taylor Maritime (TMIP) returned $143.4m to shareholders in February and plans to return at least $30m in the third quarter. Details should be published at the end of April. There will still be a regular quarterly dividend of 2 cents/share. The sale of a vessel raised $17m. The managed realisation of assets will continue.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 16 March 2026

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Marula Mining (MARU) is still investigating various sources of additional finance. The directors and related parties are providing funding. An $8m copper concentrate purchase agreement has been secured with a New York company. This covers 2,500 tonnes of copper concentrate each month from the Kinusi copper mine. The 2024 accounts have still to be published. An agreement with Baosteel Resources South Africa covers initial deliveries of a minimum of 5,000 tonnes of manganese ore from the Kilifi manganese processing plant. Marula Mining will receive a provisional payment of 90% of each monthly shipment upon delivery to Mombasa Port. Marula Mining has not paid the £1m for the minority interest in the Kilifi plant. This will be settled for £856,000 in shares at 3.85p each. Marula Mining and the WEEE Centre have finalised phase 1 of implementation of the lithium-ion Battery Recycling and Critical Metals Processing facility (the “Project”) in Kenya.

Stack BTC (STAK) raised £260,000 at 5p/share early in the week. The cash for acquisitions and investing in Bitcoin. The company subsequently bought 5 Bitcoin at £51,850 each and 5 Bitcoin at £52,758 each.

B HODL (HODL) announced a capital deployment programme. It is redeploying £350,000 in cash to invest in Bitcoin or buy back shares, which still leaves 24 months of working capital. B HODL will participate in the rewards account set up by CoinCorner, which owns 14.3% in B HODL, that will provide a return on part of the Bitcoin holding that is not in the Lightning network.

Mendell Helium (MDH) says M3 Helium, which it has an option to acquire that has been extended to 30 April, will commence drilling of wells on Rost and Enwell leases. The drill rig should arrive in the week beginning 16 March.

Falconedge (EDGE) says that the February Bitcoin yield was 0.912%. The total Bitcoin holding is 20.059694.

Wishbone Gold (WSBN) won a contested ballot for 67km2 of mineral title on crown land, 25km north-west of Telfer, which was applied for by multiple parties.

Vault Ventures (VULT) is developing a post-quantum secure communications platform with Whitespace Global. The contract with Whitespace Global is worth £1.6m. Vault Ventures will have controlled ownership of the cryptographic architecture.

The WeShop share price has fallen to $16.40, which is a drop of more than 90% since the high just after flotation. The value of the WeCap (WCAP) shareholding is just over $20m.

Ajax Resources (AJAX) has signed an agreement to acquire the Pereira Velho gold project. The payment is $200,000 cash plus $1.9m in shares, plus a 1.5% net smelter return, depending on the level of the gold price, which can be bought back for $1.5m. Ajax Resources issued 927,000 shares for the option agreement for the purchase of 100% to the Macacha project. Ajax Resources chief executive bought 264,146 shares at 8p each, taking his stake to 16.3%.

Macaulay Capital (MCAP) edged up income from £277,000 to £283,000 in the year to December 2025. The loss was reduced from £500,000 to £425,000. NAV was reduced from £2.14m to £1.71m.

Gana Media (GANA) is providing a loan of up to £100,000 to NYCE International (NYCE). The loan lasts with 12% and the interest rate is 7%. There are “discussions to integrate ‘NirmataPlay’ games aggregator into Estadio Gana Mexico”. NYCE chief executive Farzad Peyman-Fard is a non-executive director of Gana Media.

Astrid Intelligence (ASTR) is acquiring and integrating an existing validator within the Bittensor network under the Astrid Validator brand. Validators verify results and ensures rules are followed.

Oscillate (SRVL) has renewed four prospecting licences in Botswana for two years. The final $80,000 has been received for the sale of hydrogen assets. Pella Ventures has a 4% stake in Oscillate

Coinsilium (COIN) says that the Yellow network token and trading platform has been launched.

Fidelio Partners has a 20.2% stake in Supernova Digital Assets (SOL).

Slater Investments has reduced its stake in Arbuthnot Banking (ARBB) from 5.15% to 4.99%.

JP JENKINS

The London Tunnels (TLT) is raising money via Crowdcube. It wants to raise up to £10m at 180p/share, which is a discount to the $3 share price published by JP Jenkins. The London Tunnels is developing the Kingsway Exchange Tunnels as a visitor attraction

AIM

All Things Considered (ATC) is acquiring digital marketing and fan engagement business Push Media Ventures and Cirkay, which has developed a platform to connect artists and fans. The Cirkay Fan Pass is a digital key that provides exclusive perks and engagement. The total cost is £1.05m, which is made up of £300,000 in cash and £750,000 in shares. The operations will be integrated with the group’s platform and services division. Push has annual revenues of £2.7m and is profitable. Cirkay is yet to report revenues.

Alien Metals (UFO) says West Coast Silver has announced results of a drone magnetic survey for the Elizabeth Hill silver project joint venture. This highlighted multiple new exploration target areas. There is also potential for a larger silver bearing mineralised system outside the existing area. Joint venture partner GreenTech Minerals has completed the phase 1 drill programme at Munni Munni Platinum-Palladium-Copper-Nickel project in Western Australia. Assay results will be published. This is part of the work to calculate a JORC resource. The previous mineral resource estimate is 24 Mt @ 2.9 g/t 4E (PGE+Au) for 2.2Moz.

Offshore energy services Tekmar Group (TGP) reported a dip in 2024-25 revenues from £32.8m to £28.7m, but recent contract wins should return the company to growth with £38.6m forecast for the year to September 2026. It should also mean that there will be a move from a loss to around break even. Net debt was £2.4m at the end of September 2025 and since then a surplus property has been sold for £2.84m. There is already a strong order book for this year and further out.

Semiconductors designer and supplier EnSilica (ENSI) raised £9.7m in an oversubscribed placing at 47p/share. A retail offer could raise a further £300,000. This is expected to unlock £2m of matching funding for the £10.4m UK Space Agency award that was previously announced. The cash will also help to accelerate supply volumes to customers. Earlier in the week, EnSilica announced another two contracts, plus a $4m extension to an existing contract with an automotive customer.  The new contracts are in life science and healthcare worth an initial $1.6m and $200,000 for a feasibility study respectively.

Fulcrum Metals (FMET) has taken advantage of the share price rise to raise £550,000 at 11p/share, which was a small premium to the market price. This will help to progress the work towards a mineral resource estimate. This is much less dilutive that the £1.05m raised at 3p/share last year. Peter Hall took a 4.34% stake. Metals One (MET1) also took the chance to reduce its shareholding from 6.33% to below 3%. Further sales will not have to be reported. Metals One invested £175,000 in last year’s placing so it has already got more than its investment back.

Concrete levelling equipment supplier Somero Enterprises (SOM) had a tough time in the US and Europe in 2025. Revenues dipped from $109.2m to $88.9m, although the second half was stronger. Pre-tax profit fell from $23.4m to $16.3m. This also meant that the dividend was reduced to 10.24 cents/share, meaning it is nearly twice covered by earnings. Net cash is still $33.2m and after dividends and share buybacks it should continue at that level.

Agricultural and fire protection technology supplier Light Science Technologies (LST) is acquiring Injectaclad for up to £4.8m, as well as paying £600,000 for the 10% minority shareholding in UK Circuits and Electronics Solutions and a related property, which can also be used for the fire protection division. Injectaclad has developed a remedial cavity fire barrier for properties and Light Science Technologies has a subsidiary that installs this product. The deal could help to improve margins by streamlining the supply chain.

Earnz (EARN) is acquiring Zero Carbon Group, which takes annualised sales to £30m. The deal will initially cost £3m – £1.5m in cash and £1.5m in shares – with a further £2m plus depending on achieving profit targets. Earnz raised £3.56m at 5p/share.

Anglesey Mining (AYM) has raised £680,000 at 6p/share, following the completion a £4m debt settlement agreement with Energold. There is £250,000 earmarked for dewatering of an existing shaft, £50,000 for analysis of samples and £100,000 for ongoing exploration.

IT company CloudCoCo (CLCO) announced it is raising £275,000 at 0.12p/share. Chairman Simon Duckworth is investing £210,000. A capital reorganisation is required before new shares can be issued for less than 1p each. The cash will fund Project Brightstar, which will enhance the company’s position in the B2B market. Target revenues are £10m, compared with £8m in the year to September 2025.

Ilika (IKA) has made the first commercial delivery of Stereax batteries to Cirtec Medical.

MAIN MARKET

Marine services provider James Fisher (FSJ) significantly improved margins in 2025. In 2025, revenues adjusted for disposals and closures increased 4% to £377.2m. Last year’s profit was boosted by gains on disposals. Underlying pre-tax profit improved from £11.9m to £15.3m. Operating margin was 2.5 percentage points higher at 7.6%. All three divisions improved margins.

BATM (BVC) improved full year revenues from $117.3m to $123.2m, while pre-tax profit jumped from $3m to $13.6m, but this included an exceptional disposal gain. Net cash was $14.7m at the end of 2025. There are more non-core businesses to sell. The cyber and networks divisions are growing strongly. Pre-tax profit is expected to be modest this year before recovering in 2027.

Bitcoin investor and wed development company The Smarter Web Company (SWC) has offered pre-IPO warrant holders the chance to realise value. The warrants are exercisable at 2.5p each. The offer price is 20.6p for each warrant. The current share price is 31.155p. The company has raised £63,000 at 37p/share. It bought three Bitcoin for £48,764 each.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 23 February 2026

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Cooks Coffee Company (COOK) says its UK Esquires coffee stores generated revenues of £21.9m in the nine months to December 2025, while sales in Ireland were 27% higher at £9.9m. There was like-for-like growth of 5.1% and 6.3% respectively. Income comes predominantly from franchise fees and royalties.

Delta Gold Technologies (DGQ), the quantum computing IP developer, has raised £1.92m through subscriptions at 35p/share. Every two shares come with a warrant to subscribe for shares at 50p each. This cash will help to accelerate university agreements and collaborations. New shareholders include Purebond.

EPE Special Opportunities Fund (EO.P) says that it does not intend to buyback any more shares. It has already acquired 1.25 million shares.

ProBiotix Health (PBX) reassured investors that it has no direct connection with skin treatments developer SkinBioTherapeutics (SBTX), which has been hit by the departure of the chief executive and accounting adjustments, even though they were both spun out of OptiBiotix Health (OPTI). Michael Litichevski, who is vice president, sales, of ProBiotix Health, bought 45,100 shares at 6.5p each.

Valereum (VLRM) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Integra Foundation to establish “a framework to collaborate on real-world asset tokenisation, institutional distribution, and secondary trading, with an initial focus on real estate”. This could help to accelerate revenue generation.

The wife of BWA Holdings (BWAP) non-exec John Byfield has bought 1.98 million shares at 0.25p each, taking their joint holding to 0.79%.

Digital asset miner Sterling Digital (ASIC) has bought 450 ASIC Bitcoin mining servers at a lower cost than budgeted, as well as modular, high-density, hydro-cooled data centre infrastructure for these mining servers. Initial production should be in the second quarter of 2026.

Arbuthnot Banking (ARBB) says that it made good progress in the fourth quarter of 2025. Pre-tax profit will be at the upper end of the guidance range of £22m-£24m. A total dividend of 53p/share is forecast.

EDX Medical (EDX) has raised £3.5m at 14p/share. That is the same share price as the previous fundraising. The proceeds will accelerate the prostate cancer programme to develop diagnostic products.

Ormonde Mining (ORM) investee company TRU Precious Metals has executed the 51%/49% joint venture agreement for the Staghorn property with Quadro Resources.

Marula Mining (MARU) has signed an agreement to supply 500 tonnes of processed manganese ore from Kilifi to Jindal Pelletising in India. Deliveries to Baosteel are also set to happen following delays.

Wind-based hydrogen production technology developer Energy B (NRGB) has secured a £50,000 loan facility from chairman Neil Ritson.

Connecting Excellence (XCE) shares have begun trading on the OTC Venture Market (OTCQB) in the US.

JP JENKINS

QPLAY (QPL), which is a manufacturer of board games, joined JP Jenkins on 16 February. QPLAY has created Outsmarted, a quiz game using AI. QPLAY is held within the Velocity Capital Fund, which is managed by Sapphire Capital Partners.

The London Tunnels (TLT), which is developing the Kingsway Exchange Tunnels as a visitor attraction, will join JP Jenkins on 25 February. The plan is to open by early 2028.

AIM

Scotland-based housebuilder Springfield Properties (SPR) reported a 2% increase in interim revenues to £108m, while pre-tax profit improved from £3.8m to £4.3m. The private housing market was weak, but changes to Scottish government policies meant that the affordable housing market recovered. Springfield Properties secured a deal with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks to provide 293 homes for workers on infrastructure projects in the North of Scotland. This is an important part of the strategy to focus on North Scotland. The benefits are not likely to be significant until the next financial year. Last year included the large land sale to Barratt, which boosted profit.

Transense Technologies (TRT) had already warned that its results would be disappointing. Interim revenues dipped 8% to £2.26m, because of a reduction in the iTrack royalty. Pre-tax profit fell from £550,000 to £64,000. Net cash is £920,000. Sensor technology products developer SAWsense revenues increased 73% to £660,000, but the growth is not as fast as hoped. A further six projects have been added, taking the total to 23, but whether or when they will become commercial products is uncertain.

Optima Health (OPT) is acquiring competitor PAM Healthcare for £100m and this will mean it has 15% of the UK and Ireland occupational health market. This takes Optima Health to its medium-term target revenues of £200m. Debt facilities will provide £70m of the acquisition payment and an underwritten open offer will raise £35m at 175p/share. In 2025, PAM generated revenues of £66.6m and EBITDA of £8.2m. The two companies would have been rivals for tenders in the past. Increased scale will enable improved margins. Pro forma 2026-27 pre-tax profit of £17.8m is forecast. Cavendish has been appointed as joint broker.

Retailer Mothercare (MTC) has refinanced its £8m debt facility with GB Europe Management Services, which has been closed after a £8.68m payment, including fees. This has been replaced by a £8.46m facility with a consortium of investors, including Richard Griffiths, that is being provided to a special purpose vehicle. This lasts until the end of 2027 and has an annual interest charge of 25%. Pension payments have been deferred until March 2027. This means that £6m of payments have been deferred and there will be a long-term payment plan put in place.

Trellus Health (TRLS), which has developed a digital platform to manage chronic health conditions, has secured a six-month extension to its agreement with Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems to provide Trellus Elevate for patients with moderate to severely active inflammatory bowel disease. Monthly cash burn has been reduced to $400,000. The 2025 revenues will be around $545,000. A $5m convertible facility has been secured, and the $737,500 drawdown from the facility will provide enough cash for the first quarter of 2026.

Pulsar Helium Inc (PLSR) has raised £7.4m at 80p/share. The cash will fund the development of the Topaz helium project in Minnesota. All six appraisal wells have been successful and there are concentrations of helium-3, which is used in quantum computing. Well testing and reservoir evaluation will continue and there will be an additional seismic survey. A pre-feasibility study for integrated helium and CO₂ production will be completed. There will also be cash spent on the Falcon project in Michigan.

Computer vison technology developer Seeing Machines (SEE) says interim revenues will decline from $25.3m to up to $24m. Annualised recurring revenues have grown from $13.5m to $14m. The EBITDA loss will decline from $17.7m to below $13.7m. Cash had fallen to $3.4m, but more recently a $14.1m advanced payment has been received. Automotive production volumes continue to grow, and new legislation comes into force in the EU that mandates camera-based driver monitoring systems for new vehicles that will further boost demand.

Roadside Real Estate (ROAD) raised £20.75m at 60p/share. This will be invested in building the portfolio of petrol forecourt stations. It is acquiring seven sites for £32.4m. The company’s stake in Cambridge Sleep Sciences should raise £48m in two tranches and help to finance expansion. Roadside Real Estate is expected to move into profit in the year to September 2027.

Broadcast technology supplier Pebble Beach Systems (PEB) has won a five-year contract in the US worth £1.3m. There is scope for upside with the US streaming client. This boosts recurring revenues. Cavendish had previously upgraded its 2026 pre-tax profit forecast to £2.7m, and this contract helps to underpin the current estimate. Dowgate Group has increased its stake from 5.22% to 10.2%.

Infrastructure-as-a-Service automated trading products supplier Beeks Financial Cloud (BKS) says interim trading is in line with expectations. Revenues are estimated to be £14.7m, down from £15.8m. Contracts won late in the period will contribute in the second half. That could contribute around £3.5m to second half revenues. Net cash is £3.3m.

Healthcare communications technology developer Feedback (FDBK) is still waiting for the NHS to make decisions on investment. Interim figures to November 2025 did not contain any surprises. Revenues were flat at £400,000 and net cash was £3.8m. Existing clients renewed contracts, so that augurs well for additional business.

The bid for Inspecs (SPEC) has been switched to a takeover offer because the votes received for the scheme of arrangement for the 84p/share offer by a bid vehicle established by Luke Johnson and Ian Livingsgtone would not be enough for it to go through. The takeover offer requires more than 50% to be in favour. It appears that the requirement is already fulfilled with current acceptances.

MAIN MARKET

The benefits of the long-term strategy of Seraphim Space Investment Trust (SSIT) are showing through in the latest uplift in NAV. In the latest quarter to December 2025, there has been a 24% increase in NAV due to sharp increases in the values of its four largest investments due to recent fundraisings or changes in how the stake is valued. Their total value is £69m higher, which is a 36% increase. There is no indication of value changes for the other investments. The interims will be published on 5 March.

Wildcat Petroleum (WCAT) intends to leave the Main Market and switch to Aquis. It will also change strategy to the gold sector. A fundraising is planned in March.

GS Chain (GSC) plans to acquire GMM Acquisition Corp, which is acquiring Giraudy, MediaLine and Source Digital. These are outdoor advertising and home entertainment media. The purchase will be in shares.

Panther Metals (PALM) has signed a letter of interest with commodities trader Traxys Europe relating to discussions concerning the Winston tailings project. Progress is being made towards a mineral resource estimate.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 16 February 2026

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Quantum computing IP developer Delta Gold Technologies (DGT) has secured a research sponsorship and technology licensing agreement with Penn State University. The sponsorship could cost $2.99m over three years. This will provide exclusive access to IP developed. Penn State will receive a running royalty of 1% of net sales of licensed products once net sales exceed $20m.

Macaulay Capital (MCAP) will earn £330,000 in fees from clients that invested in inspection business ICA, which is being acquired by Germany-based Certania for an enterprise value of £30.45m. AIM-quoted CEPS (CEPS) is selling its stake in for an upfront payment of £14m, which includes the repayment of loan notes. The disposal requires CEPS shareholder approval.

All five requisition resolutions were defeated at the Lift Global Ventures (LFT) general meeting. There were 60.5% of the votes against each resolution. A vote on the waiver of pre-emption rights did not receive the 75% of votes required.

Marula Mining (MARU) has agreed terms for the acquisition of 50% in a special purpose vehicle that holds mining rights in South Africa that include the operation ready Derdepoort manganese mine, which has a processing plant. Proven ore reserves of approximately 4.38 million tonnes of manganese ore at an average grade of 34.78% Manganese Oxide. Marula Mining will pay £1m in shares at 5p each and provide £1m of initial funding. A further £1m will be paid after due diligence. A bankable feasibility study targeting one million tonnes of manganese each year, or when the project is thought to be viable, will trigger a £9m cash payment. A further 20% stake can be acquired for £100,000. Marula Mining has already acquired the nearby Tonto Tshipi manganese mine.

EPE Special Opportunities (EO.P) had was cash of £14.1m at the end of January 2026. The NAV was 360p/share. The Luceco (LUCE) share price recovered, and Whittard of Chelsea was refinanced. Recent acquisition LSA has been integrated into Rayware. A £3m share buyback has been launched.

Valereum (VLRM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with RWO.io, which will integrate VLRM markets into its infrastructure. Longer-term, there are plans to develop a decentralised exchange and enable token assets to be used to secure loans.

Oscillate (SRVL) has agreed to acquire Kalahari Copper, which has interests in the Kaoko Basin in Namibia and the Kalahari copper belt in Botswana. The acquisition will be combined with a move to AIM. A further $80,000 has been received from Pulsar Helium Inc for the sale of hydrogen assets. One more payment of $80,000 is due.

Fibre optic cable materials supplier Unigel Group (UNX) increased full year turnover from £29.2m to £38.2m, enabling a jump in pre-tax profit from £2.13m to £3.75m. There was a recovery in international demand. This is set to continue due to investment in AI and 5G. Production capacity has been increased in the US because of tariff uncertainties. Net cash was £2.3m at the end of 2025.

SuperSeed Capital (WWW) increased NAV to 133p/share at the end of 2025. Portfolio revenues nearly doubled.

Sulnox Group (SNOX) has secured a distribution agreement with Motor Plus Panama, which will stock Sulnox emission reduction products for maritime, industrial and transport clients.

Wishbone Gold (WSBN) has expanded its interests in the area of Greatland Gold (GGP) owned Telfer gold mine in Western Australia. The company won a tender for 67km2 of mineral title on crown land, 25km north-west of Telfer.

Ajax Resources (AJAX) has agreed to an extension to the period of exclusivity for the purchase of Pereira Velho Exploração S.A., which owns the Pereira Velho gold project in Brazil.

AI business investor Mollyroe (MOY) raised £350,000 at 0.25p/share. A convertible loan note issue is planned.

Roundhouse Digital (ETHL) has purchased 346.6 Ethereum at an average cost of $2,020 each. The total holding is 468.8 Ethereum. The financial year end date is being changed to March.

Falconedge (EDGE) generated income of 0.368524 Bitcoin, taking the total Bitcoin holding to 19.878377 Bitcoin.

BWA Holdings (BWAP) managing director James Butterfield bought one million shares at 0.25p each, taking his stake to 8.88%. NYCE International (NYCE) has corrected director shareholdings. Farzad Peyman owns 12.2%, Stelios Michaelides 3.86% and Harmen Breninkmeijer 21.3%.

JP JENKINS

Thrive Renewables (THRV) has launched a £10m bond offer, including a retail offer of £5m via the Triodos Bank Crowdfunding platform. The bond lasts for 5 years and offers an annual interest rate of 5.5%. This will finance two onshore wind farms in Wales and Scotland. The offer closes on 16 April.

AIM

Scientific instruments supplier SDI Group (SDI) has secured the earnings enhancing acquisition of PRP Optoelectronics. The manufacturer of ruggedised LEDs for the aerospace, medical and industrial printing markets cost £9.3m, net of cash acquired of £2.8m, and could enhance 2026-27 earnings by nearly 8%. Forecast net debt will increase to £23.1m. This takes SDI into new markets, and the product range fits with some existing products.

Digitisation services provider TPXimpact (TPX) has won two major contracts this week. The latest is a four-year contract with DEFRA worth £39m. That is the second largest contract TPXimpact has ever won. The contract covers digitisation of programmes across agricultural, environmental and sustainability areas. TPXimpact already has contracts with DEFRA. The company also won a £22m contract with NHS England.

Cosmetics supplier Warpaint London (W7L) has acquired the Barry M brand from the administrator for £1.4m, but 2025 figures will be just below expectations. Cavendish has cut its 2025 pre-tax profit forecast from £20.7m to £19.2m, although the 2026 figure is maintained at £26m. Net cash was better than expected at £16m. Barry M is a value cosmetics brand and had revenues of £15m. It is likely to be loss making.

Zanaga Iron Ore Company (ZIOC) has secured funding for its Jumelles subsidiary, which owns the Zanaga iron ore project in Congo. Red Arc Minerals is investing $25m for a 20% stake in Jumelles. This will fund the project up to final investment decision. There is then a $125m option for Red Arc Minerals to take its stake to 87.5%. Zanaga Iron Ore Company will retain a 1% net smelter royalty, and Red Arc Minerals can acquire a 0.5% net smelter royalty from the company for $50m. Zanaga Iron Ore Company has enough cash to get to final investment decision when it can decide whether to continue to invest in the project as it moves to production. Red Arc Minerals can be required to swap Jumelles shares for Zanaga Iron Ore Company shares at 15p each if it does not complete each part of the deal in a defined period. Shareholder approval is required.

Video streaming technology developer Aferian (AFRN) has extended its $16.5m banking facilities to 20 March 2026. It could be further extended at a later date. The loan from major shareholder kestrel Partners is £1.59m and is repayable on 15 April 2026. The formal sale process continues, and this is leading to significant adviser costs. Some potential options for the trading businesses would not raise as much as the bank facility.

Interior furnishings brands owner Sanderson Design Group (SDG) says trading continued to improve in the second half, particularly in the US. Sales in the UK were lower last year. There has also been an improvement in manufacturing business, which should make a profit in the year to January 2026. Full year pre-tax profit is expected to improve from £4.4m to at least £5m. Cash is estimated to be £9.8m, which is more than one-quarter of market capitalisation.

Cora Gold (CORA) is raising £12.9m-£13.7m through a subscription by Singapore-based Eagle Eye Asset Holdings at 6p/share. There will be a retail offer to raise up to £2m. Eagle Eye’s investment will depend on the take up of the retail offer, so that it does not go above 29.9%. The definitive feasibility study for the company’s Sanankoro project in south Mali indicated a NPV8% of $221m, but that was at a gold price of $2,750/ounce. The money raised covers nearly 50% of the cash required to construct the mine.

Faron Pharmaceuticals (FARN) is planning to raise €40m to enable acceleration of development of its lead asset bexmarilimab and to run the Phase II portion of the FDA agreed Phase II/III trial in frontline high risk myelodysplastic syndrome. Lead asset bexmarilimab is an investigational immunotherapy designed to overcome resistance to existing cancer treatments by harnessing the power of immune cells and igniting the immune system. Management expects value inflection points in 2026 and 2027.

Phoenix Copper (PXC) has suspended chief executive Marcus Edwards-Jones and finance director Richard Wilkins due to their recent conduct and past payments. An investigation is underway. The company has limited cash available, and it will last until the second quarter of 2026.

Gift packaging and stationery supplier IG Design (IGR) is trading ahead of expectations. In the nine months to December 2025, margins of 4% are at the higher end of guidance. Full year pre-tax profit estimate has been raised from $7.1m to $9.9m. Cash could be more than $55m at the end of March 2026. A new chief executive is being recruited. The full year results will be published in June and there will be a return to reporting in pounds.

More positive new for Fulcrum Metals (FMET) concerning gold and other product recoveries at the Teck Hughes tailings project. Gold recovery has been increased to 78% with up to 95% silver recoveries. There are also high recovery rates for tellurium and copper and 20% recoveries of gallium – that could be improved. There is a potential recoverable value of more than $550m of all these metals. Further testing will be undertaken.

Wynnstay Group (WYN) is starting to see the benefits of its project genesis strategy. In the year to October 2025, revenues fell from £613.1m to £583.4m due to lower commodity prices, and pre-tax profit recovered from £7.6m to £9.2m. Efficiencies offset higher wage costs. The growth in profit was predominantly in feed and grain and arable divisions.

MAIN MARKET

Apax Partners has decided not to make an offer of 500p/share for motor dealer software provider Pinewood Technologies (PINE). It blames current market conditions.

Digital assets investor KR1 (KR1) has launched its financial infrastructure strategy. This includes starting to buy Bitcoin as well as Ethereum. Existing holdings will be actively managed.

Bitcoin investor and wed development company The Smarter Web Company (SWC) has bought another 15 Bitcoin at a total cost of £785,773 and it owns 2,689 Bitcoin in total, which is an investment of £222.2m.

Panther Metals (PALM) has filed a prospectus for a proposed secondary listing on the Canadian Securities Exchange. PKF Littlejohn has been appointed as auditor. A placing raised £1.19m at 70p/share. This will be spent on a drilling programme for the Wishbone prospect at the Obonga project in Canada. The Winston mine tailings project is moving towards a mineral resource estimate.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 9 February 2026

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Sulnox Group (SNOX) has generated £1.69m in the nine months to December 2025, compared with £650,000 in the comparative period. A further £335,000 of sales have been generated since then. So far this year, emissions reduction additive volumes grew 265%. Cash was £1.12m at the end of 2025.

Delta Gold Technologies (DQG) shares have started trading on the OTCQB Venture Market in the US. This will help the quantum computing IP company to access US investors. Jonathan Mark Swain has increased his stake from 21.3% to 22.6%.

Connecting Excellence Group (XCE) purchased 1.065 Bitcoin for £64,000 using cash generated by the executive search business, which had revenues of £253,000 in January. The total holding is 52.425 Bitcoin at a total cost of £3.15m. The share price declined 35.9% to 1.25p. The original placing and offer price was 2.1p/share.

Ethry (ETHY) has bought 250 Ethereum at an average price of £1,997 each. It owns 750 Ethereum at an average price of £2,272.33 each.

B HODL (HODL) owns 160.388 Bitcoin after earning 0.093 Bitcoin during January. The company has shareholder permission to buy back shares, as well as entering an At-The Market equity offering via Canaccord Genuity.  Share issues have to be at a share price that is a premium to the market value of the company’s Bitcoin holdings.

Pieter Scholtz and Gerhardus “Gerhard” Kotzee of Quorium Global Photonics SPC have been appointed as executive directors of Valereum (VLRM). Grant Gischen has also been appointed as an executive director.

Seneca Partners has reduced its stake in Probiotix Health (PBX) from 6.6% to just under 5%.

Stack BTC (STAK) has raised £6,000 at 1p/share. This will provide working capital.

Fenikso Ltd (FNK) has received a further $437,000 from Lekoil Oil and Gas Investments out of crude oil sales, leaving $33.7m owed.

Tamar Minerals (TMR) sats White Energy Company says that four holes of the Specimen Hill project drilling have been completed with up to nine more planned. Tamar Minerals has a 3% Net Smelter Royalty (NSR) on all future mineral sales.

James and Alexandra Peace have a 6.58% stake in brewer Shepherd Neame (SHEP).

Falconedge (EDGE) shares have started trading on the OTCQB Venture Market in the US.

Marula Mining (MARU) has appointed Alpheus Nethononda, Martin Westerman and Boniface Mbithi as directors.

VVV Sports (VVV) has repaid a £250,000 loan from Campana Investments, which is controlled by VVV Sports chairman Jonathan Rowland.

ASSET MATCH

C4X Discovery (C4XD) will leave Asset Match after the final auction on 12 February. Further progress is required to secure partners for existing programmes. Operating costs have been reduced.

Gulfsands Petroleum (GPX) has closed the fractional share auction, and all the fractional entitlement shares have been placed.

AIM

Antennas components and systems supplier Filtronic (FTC) did well to report barely changed interim revenues of £25.3m given the exceptionally strong first half the year before. Investment in the business has increased costs, so pre-tax profit declined. There is a record order book. Full year revenues are set to be 4% lower at £54m and pre-tax profit could slip from £15.1m to £8.3m.

Chip designer and supplier EnSilica (ENSI) reported interims that were flagged in the recent trading statement. Revenues were 37% ahead at £12.7m with strong growth in chip supply revenues and design income for future supply. There is already 95% coverage of forecast full year revenues of £28m, which would lead to a return to profit. There are design deals that will become supply deals over the next couple of years, so future growth is already in the pipeline.

Online gaming marketing business B90 Holdings (B90) generated higher revenues than expected in 2025. Zeus has upgraded its revenues forecast by 11% to €7.1m. The pre-tax profit forecast is maintained at €1.1m because marketing costs have been increased to cover higher costs and continue the growth in revenues. Net cash is €900,000.

Specialist cleaning services provider React Group (REAT) increased full year revenues from £20.7m to £24.9m, helped by an acquisition, but pre-tax profit dropped from £2.1m to £2m and earnings fell further because of shares issued to fund the 24hr Aquaflow acquisition. There was an organic decline of 10% due to lower cleaning frequencies, but there was a stronger second half. Net debt is £2.2m, excluding leases. Investment in digital admin will help the LaddersFree business to grow.

Building products manufacturer Alumasc (ALU) has reported interim revenues that dipped from £57.4m to £50.4m, partly down to a £5.5m contribution from Chek Lap Kok airport in the previous period that was not repeated in the recent six months. Underlying pre-tax profit dropped from £7.5m to £4m. A further £1.1m of annualised cost savings have been achieved. The interim dividend was maintained at 3.5p/share.

Tungsten West (TUN), which owns the Devon-based Hemerdon tungsten and tin mine, published an updated project value on the back of strong metals prices. The NPV7.5% has increased from $190m to $1.7bn. Management followed this up with a fundraising of £44.4m at 18p/share, including a fully subscribed retail offer of £3m. The cash will finance the feasibility study and pay back the bridge facility. It will help to accelerate the move towards production in the third quarter. Debt financing discussions are continuing with multiple lenders.

Localisation and digital media services provider Zoo Digital (ZOO) is seeing signs of recovery in activity and has received initial orders from two major US studios. Gillian Wilmot and Mickey Kalifa are stepping down from the board after many years, and Nathalie Schwarz will replace Gillian Wilmot as chair. Two new non-executive directors will be appointed.

Image Scan (IGE) says a major defence contract that was going to use the company’s ThreatScan® portable X‑ray systems has been terminated. The was a 36-month programme that would have been a major contributor to 2026-27 and 2027-28 revenues. The termination reduces the order book from £4.67m to over £1m.

Advanced coating provider Hardide (HDD) continues to win new business and this has sparked an upgrade in the forecast for 2025-26. The latest order is from a North American energy company, and it is worth $1m. This should be delivered in the second half. Cavendish has upgraded its earnings forecast by one-quarter to 1.9p/share on a £1m increase in forecast revenues to £9m. That shows the operational gearing of the business.

Recruitment software provider Dillistone Group (DSG) announced a £1.5m fundraising at 10p/share. Management believes that the company has to become larger to take advantage of the AIM quotation. P&R Investment Management has taken a strategic stake of 26.8% via its fund. They are appointing Matthias Riechert and Aakash Vanchi Nath to represent them on the board.

Inspecs (SPEC) says that the votes received for the scheme of arrangement for the 84p/share offer by a bid vehicle established by Luke Johnson and Ian Livingsgtone would not be enough for it to go through. The general meeting has been delayed from 9 February to 23 February.

Trellus Health (TRLS), which has developed a digital platform to manage chronic health conditions, says it has enough funding for most of the first quarter of 2026, having reduced cash burn to $400,000/month, and it is in talks for additional funding. Revenues were $545,000 in 2025. Last year, the agreement with Pfizer to license patient support educational content for inclusion in Pfizer’s IBD digital application was renewed and it could be expanded this year. Trellus Health has begun launching the programme to support recruitment and enrolment optimisation for an ongoing mid-stage immunology and inflammation clinical trial sponsored by Takeda. There has been trimming of some major shareholdings in the company, including by Icahn School of Medicine, which has reduced the stake from 25% to 22.3%.

Sports and leisure products supplier Tandem (TND) improved revenues by 6% to £26.2m in 2025 despite weak consumer confidence. Bicycles and home and garden sectors grew fastest, offsetting the drop in toys, sports and leisure. Efficiency improvements mean that pre-tax profit should be slightly ahead of expectations of £500,000 – Cavendish forecasts £600,00. Management hopes to maintain the rate of growth in revenues this year. The results will be published on 23 March.

Huddled Group (HUD) has raised up to £730,000 from a share subscription at 1.75p/share and secured a debt facility of up to £600,000. There is also a retail offer of up to £100,000. The cash will fund additional stock for the retailer. New marketing initiatives are proving successful.

Financial market data software provider Arcontech (ARC) reported a 5% dip in revenues to £1.4m because of a loss of a contract and a decline in operating profit from £400,000 to £300,000. Reduced working capital helped net cash increase to £7.8m. Cavendish expects revenues to fall 13% and pre-tax profit to decline 30% to £700,000.

Automotive interior components supplier CT Automotive (CTA) expects to report adjusted pre-tax profit of at least $10m for 2025. This was after product launch-related costs of $400,000. Net debt was $7.7m at the end of 2025. Contracts have been won that will build revenues over the next few years. This year’s revenues will not get much of that benefit until later in the year and modest growth is expected.

Gold producer and explorer Ariana Resources (AAU) has settled outstanding loan balances due under the facility agreement with RiverFort Global Opportunities PCC, which issued a conversion notice. The outstanding balance of $782,575 was converted into 40.4 million shares and these are likely to be admitted to trading on 5 February. RiverFort is not likely to be a long-term shareholder so these shares could be sold in the near-term.

Chesterfield Special Cylinders (CSC) says the defence order book continues to strengthen following a new contract for specialised pressure vessels for French navy submarine. Management believes it could gain a major contract for hydrogen storage systems during this year. This year will be second half weighted and full year revenues are expected to be significantly higher. Revenues are forecast to be 18% ahead at £19.5m and the company should move close to breakeven.

Full year revenues at restaurants operator Various Eateries (VARE) were in line with expectations at £52.4m, but margins were better that expected and the loss was lower than expected at £2.4m. There was 2% like-for-like growth in revenues and there was a strong performance over the Christmas period. Zeus has reduced its 2025-26 loss estimate to £1m with forecast net cash of £1.9m.

MAIN MARKET

Bitcoin investor and wed development company The Smarter Web Company (SWC) moved to the Main Market on 3 February. The share price opened at 43p and ended the week at 36.75p.

Satsuma Technology (SATS) says that it has accepted the requisition of a general meeting by shareholders. The four resolutions proposed are for the removal of Henry Elder and Andrew Smith from the board and their replacement by Nicholas Lee and Paddy Dean. The board is aware that apparently the majority is supportive of these resolutions. It will make a further announcement.

Alkemy Capital Investments (ALK) says projections for the Front-End Engineering Design programme for its proposed lithium hydroxide refinery in Teesside are at the lower end of the global cost curve. Capex is US$243.6m and there should be an EBITDA of US$65.9m each year. The facility could produce 25,000 tpa of battery-grade lithium hydroxide monohydrate for batteries.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 2 February 2026

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Roundhouse Digital (ETHL) joined Aquis on 30 January. It is an AI technology company with an Ethereum-denominated treasury. There was £1.1m raised at 4p/share. The company is valued at £10m.

Valereum (VLRM) has entered into a non-binding agreement with Injective Foundation, a Layer-1 blockchain for decentralised finance, and DigiShares inc, a provider of tokenisation technology. There would be a framework for a collaboration across the Injective blockchain, involving tokenisation and secondary trading. DigiShares has 200 issuers. Quorum Global Photonics has a 49.9% stake, while James Bannon’s shareholding has been diluted from 33.8% to 17.8%.

Property investor Ace Liberty and Stone (ALSP) moved from a loss of £243,000 to a pre-tax profit of £290,000 in the six months to October 2025. Admin costs were reduced and there was no fair value loss, compared with £1.6m in the corresponding period. NAV is £30.5m. Dr Antonios Ghorayeb bought 14,795 shares at 25p each and the chairman owns a 0.96% stake.

Vault Ventures (VULT) has publicly launched analytics platform vSignal.ai.

Equipmake (EQIP) has won a £2.4m order from Agrale for 23 electric drivetrain systems for 23 buses. This follows an order for 50 buses.

BWA Holdings (BWAP) corporate adviser Allenby has initiated research on the minerals exploration company. It believes the Aracari gold project in Cameroon could be transformational. The sum of the parts valuation is £11.2m, which is treble the current market capitalisation. Richard Battersby has transferred his shareholding to his daughter.

Interim figures from Vaultz Capital (V3TC) show initial revenues of £72,000 and a loss of £1.62m. The current value of Bitcoin is £8.68m, down from £11.2m at the end of October 2025, when net assets were £11.6m.

Sulnox Group (SNOX) has secured a South Korean patent for emissions reducing additives.

B HODL (HODL) has bought one more Bitcoin for £64,363, after drawing down£65,030 from its loan facility, taking the total to 160.295 Bitcoin costing a total of £13.3m.

WeCap (WCAP) reported a halved loss of £387,000 in the six months to October 2025. The WeShop share price has fallen back to $58.70, but the stake is still worth more than the WeCap market capitalisation.

Mendell Helium (MDH) raised £700,000 at 3p/share. There is also a proposal from US-based investors to co-fund a second well on M3 Helium’s Rost lease in Fort Dodge. Mendell Helium has an option to acquire M3.

Ajax Resources (AJAX) raised £1m at 8p/share with warrants exercisable at 16p each also issued. This will fund previously announced acquisitions.

Clinical support software DXS International (DXSP) revenues fell 3% to £1.68m in the first half, while the loss jumped from £254,000 to £1m. Management is hopeful that the NHS will begin to accelerate decision making later this year.

Cooks Coffee Company (COOK) says its Esquires Coffee subsidiary has entered a 10-year master franchise agreement for the UAE. The plan is to open at least 50 sites.

Bitcoin investor and wed development company The Smarter Web Company (SWC) has raised £500,000 at 54p/share. Shareholders have agreed the move to the Main Market on 3 February.

Marula Mining (MARU) has terminated the planned sale of its main subsidiary to Europa Metals. Marula Mining will instead develop the assets itself.

In the year to July 2025, hydrogen producing wind turbine technology developer Energy B (NRGB) reported a reduction in loss from £1.05m to £645,000. There are no revenues. This is before the plans for a Bitcoin strategy and the raising of £400,000 at 1p/share and the settlement of creditors at the same share price.

Mental health treatments developer Shortwave Life Sciences (PSY) did not generate any revenues in the six months to October 2025. The loss was £211,000. Net assets were £2.58m.

Phoenix Digital (PNIX) has redomiciled to Gibraltar.

JP JENKINS

India-focused oil and gas company Indus Gas (INDI) left AIM and joined the JP Jenkins platform on 26 January.

ASSET MATCH

Fastjet (FJET) has published its 2024 accounts. The Africa-focused airline reported a 3% dip in revenues to $64.9m, while there was a swing from a loss of $9m to a pre0tax profit of $3.37m. That is due to a sharp fall in cost of sales.

Greenshields Agri Holdings (GAH) says there was a small improvement in 2024-25 post-tax profit at £2.71m. NAV is 160p/share.

Macdonald and Company (MAC1) is paying an interim dividend of 2p/share on 4 February.

AIM

Thor Explorations (THX) has announced a pre-feasibility study for the Douta gold project in Senegal and first production could be in 2028. The pre-tax project NPV5% is $908m at a long-term gold price of $3,500/ounce, while the post-tax NPV5% is $633m. This assumes 100% ownership. Payback of initial capital investment of $254m could be less than one year.  There could be one million ounces of gold produced over nearly 13 years. The resource can be extended. Thor Explorations is buying out its 30% joint venture partner in the Douta West permit joint venture Birma Resources for an initial $1.5m.

Aerospace component kits supplier Velocity Composites (VEL) continues to be hit by delays and lower than anticipated Airbus A350 production rates. Lower overheads have offset the lower revenues in 2025, and the pre-tax loss was reduced from £1.3m to £1.1m. A major aerospace components programme in the US will not be transferred until later in 2026. New European business is being sought to offset the loss of a contract.

The Revel Collective (TRC) has appointed FTI Consulting as administrator and sold most of the bars and pubs. There are 20 sites that were not sold and those will close.

Electro-mechanical and electronics products supplier LPA Group (LPA) reported full year figures in line with the previous downgrade. The loss increased from £300,000 to £1.3m on lower revenues. The order book is worth £32.5m. This includes rail projects that have been subject to delays. There is a 41% like-for-like improvement in the first quarter of this year.

Public Policy Holding Company (PPHC) announced the price of the Nasdaq fundraising at $12.25/share. This will raise $50.8m.

Sancus Lending (LEND) shares jumped 362.5% to 1.8p on an unexpectedly strong trading performance in 2025. The finance provider increased revenues by one-third to £22.1m and a 2025 pre-tax profit of more than £1m is estimated, although that includes gains of £2.6m from repurchasing ZDPs. New lending facilities nearly doubled to £212m and total loans were one-third higher at £317m.

Late on Tuesday, Mind Gym (MIND) admitted that it is in discussions with third parties as part of a strategic review that could lead to a bid for the education and training company.

Great Western Mining (GWMO) has revealed the results of the geographical survey and the assay results of a drilling programme at Rhyolite Dome, which is part of the Olympic gold project in Nevada. The survey identified a deeper untested chargeable feature at more than 300 metres in depth. The drilling found low grade gold and more significant silver mineralisation. The geological model will be refined.

Empyrean Energy (EME) has come to an agreement with Conrad Asia Energy to resolve its dispute over the Duyung PSC and Mako gas field in Indonesia. First gas could be in the fourth quarter of 2027. A special purpose vehicle will be established to own these investments, and Empyrean Energy will own 8.5%. After this Empyrean will pay $353,000 to Conrad and a further $353,000 will be paid out of dividends from the special purpose vehicle. Empyrean’s secured convertible note will be restructured, and the lender will be paid out of dividends from the project. The share price jumped 138% to 0.0894p.

Ovoca Bio (OVB) has completed the acquisition of Tadeen International and it will change its name to Talisman Metals. There was £1.155m raised at 7.7p/share. This means the company has £2.255m in cash. The main asset is copper deposits in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

Video games art outsourcing provider Winking Studios (WKS) expects 2025 revenues to be at least 40% higher than the $31.9m reported in 2024. That is slightly higher than expectations. Organic growth was in mid-to-high single digits. EBITDA is anticipated to be between 7% and 13% ahead of the $4.8m reported in 2024. There are already approximately $34.6m of bookings to be recognised this year. The full year results are due to be announced on 27 February.

Physiomics (PYC) has been awarded a new contract by long-standing client Numab Therapeutics. The project is for modelling the company’s pipeline to accelerate development of therapies.

Contract proteomics services provider Proteome Sciences (PRM) has raised £840,000 via a placing at 1.75p/share and a retail offer raised £132,000, which was more than double the target. The cash will be used to increase Tandem Mass Tags plexing rate from 32x to 96x and introduce novel Solvent Shift chemoproteomic workflows. It will also go towards launching a new range of DXT isotopic plex tags and concluding a DXT licence, will increasing capacity in San Diego.

Sensing and measurement technology developer Transense Technologies (TRT) has not been securing new contracts as fast as it hoped. Also, iTrack royalty income is likely to be10% lower than expected at £2m with the total revenues for the group are forecast at £5.2m, down from £5.55m last year. The SAWsense and Translogik businesses should grow revenues by 30%. The company was profitable in the first half and had cash at £1.33m. The interim results will be released on 17 February.

Eqtec (EQT) is raising £1.3m at 0.035p/share and this represents 36% of the enlarged share capital. A restructuring of £5.79m of debt will lead to £1.93m being converted into shares. The rest will be changed into £1.93m secured, zero-coupon debt and £1.93m. There is £166,000 of debt owed on the convertible facility with GIS. As part of its new strategy Eqtec is acquiring 99% of the Green Rock copper gold exploration project. It is paying $150,000 in cash and shares. The remaining 1% stake has a carry up to $350,000 and after that it will be lent cash by Eqtec to pay for its contribution with repayment out of future revenues. There is also an option over a 99% interest in the Peak Hills gold copper exploration project in Western Australia. The waste to energy activities will continue to be a core part of the group.

Botswana Diamonds (BOD) been awarded eight prospecting licences in north west Botswana. They have been chosen for prospectivity for copper, gold, silver and other critical minerals. The company is speaking with potential joint venture partners.

Laundry technology developer Xeros Technology (XSG) says that 2025 revenues will be lower than expected. Cavendish has halved its forecast to £300,000, which increases the loss to £3.4m. The 2026 forecasts are unchanged and there should still be £4m in cash at the end of 2026. Longer-term, there is positive feedback concerning demand from a global OEM launching a product in 2027.

MAIN MARKET

Another upgrade for LED lighting and wiring accessories supplier Luceco (LUCE), which has been improving throughout 2025 after a weak start. Like-for-like growth is 6%. Pre-tax profit is expected to be £27.1m, up from £24.9m in 2024. There is demand for retrofitted energy efficiency products and there is UK government backing for energy efficiency measures. There was an 85% increase in EV charging sales.

In the AGM statement, Swindon-based newspaper and magazines distributor Smiths News (SNWS) says trading has been positive. The company should remain cash positive despite the payment of a special dividend of 3p/share. There is more to come from the diversification into other distribution activities.

Shell company Associated British Engineering (ASBE) had net assets of 15p/share at the end of September 2025. There are capital losses of £8m and £2m of trading losses.

Nanoco (NANO) has decided not to actively seek a buyer any more. There were discussions but no firm offers. Costs are being reduced and chief executive Dmitry Shashkov is leaving.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 1 December 2025

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Valereum (VLRM) has entered into an agreement to raise $200m of royalty and streaming capital from new special purpose segregated portfolio company, Valereum QGP-SP, which is being formed to list on a US National Exchange. There will be a one year option over a stake of 49.9% in Valereum in return for the royalty and streaming income. This will help to accelerate development of the crypto and blockchain platforms and finance acquisitions.

Digital asset company Vaultz Capital (V3TC) holds 135 Bitcoin. Two resolutions related to a share capital reorganisation and a reduction in nominal value were withdrawn from the AGM following shareholder feedback.

Ajax Resources (AJAX) had cash of £1.37m at the end of August 2025. It is in the process of acquiring the Paguanta silver lead zinc project in Chile. Drilling should commence soon at the Eureka project. The cash will finance this and a JORC compliant mineral resource estimate.

AI software company IntelliAM AI (INT) has won contracts in the building products sector. They cover 15 sites and should generate £250,000 in this financial year. Annual recurring revenues were £1.18m at the end of September 2025, Cash was £786,000 and a further £250,000 has subsequently been raised at110p/share. A WRAP retail offer could raise up to £150,000 more. This will fund the delivery of the co-development partnership with a global engineering manufacturer.

WeShop (NASDAQ: WSHP) shares ended the week at $145.21. WeCap (WCAP) has an interest valued at around 28p/share. The share price increased 8.33% to 2.6p. Res Privata NV has cut its WeCap stake from 13.6% to less than 3%. Hot Rocks Investments (HRIP) owns a stake worth $21.8m and the share price rose 3.7% to 1.4p, which values the investment company at £3.4m.

Mendell Helium (MDH) has extended the broker option of up to 10 million shares until 3 December. A further £12,000 has been raised via subscription at 3p/share.

Cannabis medicines developer Ananda Developments (ANA) is calling a general meeting on 12 December to gain shareholder approval to leave Aquis. This will save money and may make it easier to raise cash. Initial data from a phase 1 human study for MRX1 has shown a positive safety profile. The final study should be complete in the second quarter of 2026.

Trading in Amazing AI (AAI) shares was suspended following the resignation of Guild Financial Advisory as corporate adviser. The company has hired Rosenblatt Law to pursue a legal action against Tom Winnifrith and Share Prophets Ltd. Chief executive Paul Mathieson is also pursuing legal action, although his social media comments will not help him.

Wishbone Gold (WSBN) is consolidating 100 shares into one new share and trading will commence on 1 December. The pre-consolidation share price was 19.4% lower at 0.725p.

Café chain Cooks Coffee Company (COOK) increased interim revenues by 111% to NZ$5.77m, helped by managed stores in Ireland via the partnership with Dairygold. Pre-tax profit fell from NZ$530,000 to NZ$68,000. Overall store sales were 26.9% ahead at NZ$45.5m. There are currently 100 stores, most of which are franchised, with a target of 300 by 2034. Net debt is NZ$1.73m.

Sulnox Group (SNOX) has secured a major distribution agreement for its reduced emissions additives in the marine sector through Drew Marine USA, which operates in 1,200 ports around the world.

Marula Mining (MARU) is acquiring an initial 50% stake in the Tonto Tshipi manganese mine in South Africa for five million shares. It can increase its interest to up to 70%. Open pit mining should start in mid-December. On completion of due diligence, a further payment of £250,000 and Marula Mining will fund 100% of exploration with a minimum spend of £1m over 12 months. Once a bankable feasibility study is completed there will be a further payment of £5m and an option fee of £100,000 would take the interest to 70%.

In the year to May 2025, Equipmake (EQIP) revenues fell from £7.3m to £3.5m, while the loss increased from £9.1m to £10.9m. The company has been restructured and there is a focus on better margin business. Costs are much lower. There was cash of £3.9m at the end of May 2025. In recent months there have been significant contract wins.

Oscillate (SRVL) says drilling results confirm copper mineralisation for the Koko Basin project in Namibia. It is also targeting sites that are highly prospective. Multiple soil samples at the Duekoue molybdenum copper project in Cote d’Ivoire show moderately anomalous concentrations of gold. Richard and Charlotte Edwards have reduced their shareholding from 5.21% to 4.03%.

Africa-focused social impact investment company Inqo Investments (INQO) had net assets of R211.5m, including cash of R33.4m, at the end of August 2025.

NYCE International (NYCE) has appointed Oberon Capital as corporate adviser and broker. Game aggregator and content innovation arm Nirmata Play was launched in October, while online gaming media agency ClickSpin Media was launched in June. They are generating revenues.

SuperSeed Capital (WWW) had an unchanged NAV of 121p/share at the end of September 2025. The managed fund SuperSeed II is expected to make two more investments by the end of 2025.

BWA Group (BWAP) is starting due diligence ground truthing at the Aracari gold project in Cameroon.

Wishbone Gold (WSBN) is consolidating 100 shares into one new share and trading will commence on 1 December. The pre-consolidation share price is 0.725p.

Fenikso (FNK) has received $535,650 as partial repayment of a loan and there is still $34.6m outstanding.

Chairman Richard Oldfield bought 25,000 Shepherd Neame (SHEP) shares at 467.6p each.

JP JENKINS

Rocksteady Coffee Company (ROCK) joined JP Jenkins on 18 November. It was founded in 2012 and produces organic Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee.

ASSET MATCH

Isle of Scilly Steamship (IOS) interim revenues improved from £16.8m to £18.1m, while pre-tax profit rose from £6.72m to £7.44m. There was cash of £8.01m at the end of September 2025. Passenger bookings are 0.7% ahead of the same time last year. The Skybus airline has been awarded the Newquay to London route. New passenger and freight vessels will be delivered next year. Management targets EBITDA of £8m by 2030.

Marshall of Cambridge (MCH) has completed the sale of Marshall Land Systems.

AIM

essensys (ESYS) founder and non-executive director Mark Furness, who stepped down as chief executive in May, has submitted an indicative offer of 20p/share for the developer of Software-as-a-Service and cloud services for the flexible workspace sector. Mark Furness owns 30.4% and this offer would value essensys at £13m. A trading statement revealed revenues of £4.1m in the quarter to October 2025, but a contract worth £900,000 each year is set to end in December. There will be cost savings, but 2025-26 results will be lower than expected. A debt facility is being negotiated. The figures for the year to July 2025 have not been published, but a previous trading statement indicated a fall in revenues from £24.1m to £19.2m with cash of £1.8m. essensys joined AIM on 29 May 2019 when it raised £14m at 151p/share.

Online retailer Boohoo (DEBS) is starting to improve its performance, but there is a long way to go. In the six months to August 2025, revenues fell from £385.4m to £296.9m, but there was a swing from an adjusted loss of £9.2m to an operating profit of £1.8m. There was still a pre-tax loss. Cost savings have been made and a full year pre-tax loss of £11.5m is forecast. Net debt should start to decline. There is a new incentive scheme for executives. Chief executive Dan Finley could be paid £148.1m if the share price reaches 300p within five years. Goldman Sachs has raised its share price target for the online retailer from 16p to 17p, but still says sell, while Barclays has cut its target from 13p to 11p and remains underweight.

European Metals Holdings (EMH) joint venture Geomet has secured a €360m grant for the Cinovec lithium and tin project in the Czech Republic.  This is Europe’s most advanced lithium project. EMH owns 49% of Geomet, which is expected to publish a definitive feasibility study soon. Zeus has modelled a 25-year mine life and an NPV10 of $1.04bn. Zeus has a fair value share price of 75p.

Savannah Resources (SAV) is progressing towards a final investment decision on the Barroso lithium project in Portugal. Lithium demand is increasing and the spodumene price has risen 80% since the end of June and is currently around $1,100/t. Discussions continue with potential customers. Savannah Resources is also acquiring a nearby mining lease. There is potential for a German government guarantee on a project finance loan of up to $270m. After the recent fundraising at 3.7p/share the company has £21m in cash.

Battery technology developer Gelion (GELN) has made strong progress over the past year and recently strengthened its balance sheet through a £10.5m fundraising that should give it enough cash for two years. In the year to June 2025, revenues increased 36% to £2.7m, with one-third coming from the first commercial sales. That helped the operating loss fall by one-quarter to £6m. Gelion is making strong progress with partners, including TDK Corporation, with whom it expects to produce a commercial pouch cells prototype within the next 12 months. The Li-S technology is achieving strong results in relation to battery life and power performance.

Egg-free celebration cakes supplier Cake Box (CBOX) reported a dip in profit in the first half, but this should be more than made up for by a much stronger second half. Like-for-like sales have grown strongly despite the tough consumer environment and group sales were £28.8m with the Cake Box contribution 19% ahead including new store openings. Pre-tax profit fell 4% to £2.6m.

Professional services firm DSW Capital (DSW) has decided to raise the interim dividend by one-fifth to 1.2p/share. Interim network revenues were 32% higher to £10.3m. Company revenues increased from £1.09m to £2.79m, which includes more recent acquisitions. Pre-tax profit grew from £101,000 to £237,000. Less than one-third of revenues are from the volatile M&A sector, which used to dominate the business.

Lung imaging technology developer Polarean Imaging (POLX) has signed a distributor agreement with DK Healthcare in South Korea. It has also won an order from the National Taiwan University Hospital for a Xenon MRI research system through its partner Philips. Polarean Imaging is asking for shareholder approval to leave AIM at a general meeting on 15 December. It plans to join matched bargain market JP Jenkins.

Team (TEAM) has launched a recommended bid for WH Ireland (WHI). It is offering 0.195 of a share for each WH Ireland share and the WH Ireland shareholders will own 43.5% of the enlarged group, which will be valued at around £30m.

ACG Metals is considering making an offer for gold and copper producer Anglo Asian Mining (AAZ), which has a resource base of more than 400,000 ounces of gold and one million tonnes of copper. The Xarxar and Garadag projects are still to be brought into production.

Tanfield Group (TAN) says the US courts have granted a motion for partial summary judgement in the dispute over Snorkel International, where Tanfield has a 49% stake that is the subject of a call option by the other shareholder. This summary judgement says that the 49% stake cannot be acquired for nil as the partner wanted to. A valuation plus interest will be calculated. The trial will begin in October.

Security technology supplier Thruvision (THRU) grew interim revenues 36% to £2.6m, even though retail revenues were lower. Cash was £2.1m at the end of September 2025. The second half will be tougher than expected and Allenby has reduced its full year revenues forecast from £8m to £5m, while the loss is raised from £2.21m to £3.55m. There will still be cash by the end of March 2026. Herald has sold its 8.89% stake and Dr Graham Cooley has raised his shareholding from 6.8% to 7.02

Premier African Minerals (PREM) has raised £500,000 at 0.0575p/share. This will be invested in the processing plant for the Zulu lithium and tantalum project.

CelLBxHealth (CLBX) raised £6.8m at 1p/share and could raise up to £1m more from a retail offer closing on 1 December. A capital reorganisation will reduce the nominal value of the shares so that they can be issued at this price. There will be £1.9m spent on R&D, £1m for sales and market and £1.2m for reorganisation and IT systems. The cancer diagnostics company will progress partnerships and reduce annual operating costs by more than £5.9m. Ther will also be development of additional assays for the Parsortix platform.

Telematics supplier Microlise Group (SAAS) says lower OEM volumes due to tariffs and the weak economy. There have also been delays in projects. There are plans to cut annualised costs by £4m. That is too late for 2025 when forecast revenues have been cut from £91.3m to £84m, while earnings have been slashed from 5.5p/share to 3.1p/share. The 2026 earnings forecast has been cut to 4.9p/share. Customer churn remains low.

Womenswear retailer Sosandar (SOS) is gaining momentum this year. Interim revenues were 15% higher at £18.7m, while sales were 28% ahead on the company’s website. Sales to Marks & Spencer were hit by that retailer’s cyber incident, but they have started again. The six stores are loss-making, but the first two are moving towards breakeven. The interim loss increased from £700,000 to £1.1m, but a full year pre-tax profit is anticipated. Net cash was £7.7m at the end of September.

Trellus Health (TRLS), which has developed digital technology to manage chronic conditions, has secured a $600,000 loan from 25% shareholder Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. There is no interest charge for nine months and then the annual rate is 8%. The loan is convertible into shares, but the stake cannot go above 29.9%. This will provide enough cash until late January when more cash will be required.

Kropz (KRPZ) produced 87,496 tonnes of phosphate concentrate n the third quarter and sales were 28% higher at 72,408 tonnes. September was a record production month, and the mine is still in its trial production phase.

Oil and gas producer Prospex Energy (PXEN) has generated revenues of £4.2m so far this year, despite the downtime at Viura and El Romeral and lower gas prices. Viura is back in production in the fourth quarter. This will enable much larger revenues in the period and generate cash for investment.

MAIN MARKET

Digital assets investor KR1 (KR1) has moved from Aquis to the Main Market on 25 November. Trading ended on Aquis at 25.5p and the share price rose to 27p at the end of the week. KR1 has a portfolio of digital assets. The update for the end of October 2025 showed net assets of 41.5p/share. Income of £305,543 was generated during the month.

New Frontier Minerals (NFM) is raising $2.25m via a placing at $0.021/share. Every two shares come with an option exercisable at $0.04 each. The cash will be used to advance the Harts Range project. The focus is to target heavy rare earth elements for US magnet and defence clients. Using Metallium’s Flash Joule Heating (FJH) technology on Harts Range raw ore delivered exceptional beneficiation results. There will be further drilling results released over the next few weeks. There will also be some cash used for the mining lease application at the NW Queensland copper project.

Cardiff Property (CDFF) increased NAV from £29.31/share to £30.53/share in the year to September 2025. The dividend was raised from 25.5p/share to 27.5p/share.

First Tin (1SN) is raising £6.3m at 7p/share. This will finance the completion of the updated DFS for the Taronga tin project in Australia. There will also be cash for preparatory work on the project site. There will be some cash for the Tellerhauser project in Germany.

Walker Crips (WCW) has agreed a 14p/share bid from PhillipCapital, valuing the company at £6m.

IT services provider Triad (TRD) reported a rise in interim revenues from £10.2m to £12m, while pre-tax profit was 10% higher at £820,000. The interim dividend was raised by 50% to 3p/share.

Motor dealer Caffyns (CFYN) slipped into loss in the six months to September 2025. It is still paying a 5p/share interim dividend. Net debt is £9.6m.

Andrew Hore

Quoted Micro 10 November 2025

AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE

Asset and fund managers advisory services provider Falconedge (EDGE) joined Aquis on 5 November. The company was formed in 2024, and it has five clients. There was £1.44m raised at 1.034p/share. It previously raised £1m. Falconedge was valued at £10.5m on admission. Falconedge has already bought 15.16258228 Bitcoin at $103,553.97 each. The total investment is £1.2m.

Business assurance provider Adsure Services (ADS) has grown it interim order book by a double digit percentage. Market share has been gained in the housing sector. Three new university contracts were won, and these will contribute to the second half. The audit working paper software was launched at the beginning of November.

VVV Sports (VVV) has signed non-binding heads of terms for the acquisition of R3 Sport, which owns and manages events, manages athletes, owns media rights and invests in teams and venues. The consideration is 300 million shares valued at £3m. VVV Sports is also investing in Wild Pickleball Agency, which is focused on Europe, Middle East and Africa. There are plans for a new profession circuity for singles and doubles, plus a pickleball league in the region.

AIM-quoted Pulsar Helium Inc (PLSR) has signed a definitive agreement for the acquisition of the Oscillate (SRVL) subsidiary Quantum Hydrogen, which holds non-hydrocarbon gas rights in Minnesota. The initial 80% will be bought for $400,000 in shares and the other 20% will be acquired in 18 months for an additional $400,000 in shares. Oscillate will change its name to Serval Resources and it will focus on copper and associated metals. Exploration has commenced on its proposed assets in the Kalahari Copper Belt.

AI manufacturing software provider IntelliAM AI (INT) says interim revenues were 58% higher at £2.4m. Annual recurring revenues were £1.18m at the end of September 2025 and it could reach £2m by the end of March 2026. The value of the contract with Hovis has increased. Gross cash is £778,000. Interim figures will be published on 24 November.

AIM-quoted Europa Metals (EUZ) has agreed the acquisition of Marula Africa Mining from Marula Mining (MARU). This subsidiary owns Marula Mining interests in battery and critical metals in East and Southern Africa. The intended offer is nine Europa Metals shares for each Marula share. This deal is subject to due diligence and Europa Metals raising cash. Marula Mining will distribute the Europa Metals shares to its shareholders and focus on precious metals. Marula Mining has appointed Fortified Securities, which is associated with RiverFort Global Capital, as broker. The broker is providing a £25m equity facility, while RiverFort is providing a $2m bridging facility that will eventually be taken on by Europa Metals.

Consumer loans provider Amazing AI (AAI) has made a small, initial purchase of digital assets. A few thousand dollars worth of Bitcoin was bought. Investments in Ethereum, XRP and Solana are planned.

B HODL (HODL) says that its Bitcoin strategy has achieved an annualised yield of 6.04% in the first full month. It generated a further 0.039 of a Bitcoin. The company holds 153.039 Bitcoin, and the average price is £84,610 for each Bitcoin.

The Smarter Web Company (SWC) raised £276,000 at 68p/share. A further four Bitcoin have been acquired and the total investment in 2,664 Bitcoin is £220.7m.

Sulnox Group (SNOX) says Spring Marine Group is broadening the use of emissions reducing Sulnox Eco to its entire fleet of 28 vessels.

Vault Ventures (VULT) says development subsidiary System7 has secured contracts with rewards-based app Fancy.com and Ellers Farm Distillery, helping with AI-based marketing of the recently acquired 6 O’Clock gin brand and other group brands. This takes the total number of contracts to seven with first year revenues of £200,000.

Igraine has changed its name to Ethtry (ETHY). It has received a further £1.3m of the outstanding balance of £3.24m of subscription money.

Majestic Corporation (MCJ) has entered a five-year lease agreement for an e-waste recycling facility in Wrexham at an annual rental of £130,000.

Shortwave Life Sciences (PSY) is planning a consolidation of ten shares into one new share.

Adnams (ADB) non-executive director Sacha Berendji bought 1,075 B shares at 1900p each. Philip Blows has reduced his stake in Supernova Digital Assets (SOL) from 7.98% to 2.82%.

TruSpine Technologies has changed its name to TSP Advanced Technologies (TSP). TechFinancials (TECH) will change its name to Ubuntu Mining and Metals and is raising the value of the share placing at 0.25p each by up to £100,000 to £350,000.

Probiotix Health (PBX) is moving from the Access to the Apex segment.

JP JENKINS

The JP Jenkins index of the 15 largest companies on the platform fell 0.1% to 1097.8 at the end of October 2025. Datalex, which moved from the Euronext Growth Exchange, joined the index during the period.

Cyber security services provider Smarttech247 Group (S247) left AIM and joined JP Jenkins on 4 November.

ASSET MATCH

Asset Match has added a dedicated PISCES page to its platform. It believes this will provide additional opportunities.

AIM

Winvia Entertainment (WVIA), which owns former AIM-quoted prize competitions organiser Best of the Best, raised £40m at 195p/share prior to joining AIM on 3 November. In December 2024, Winvia Entertainment also acquired one of the top three online casino operators in Romania, Click Competitions was acquired in March. The share price has risen to 215p.

Audio and content creation equipment supplier Focusrite (TUNE) reported 12-month results in line with expectations with revenues rising 6% to £168.9m, while operating profit dipped from £16.6m to £15.3m. The latest interim dividend for the 18-month period is 2.1p/share. There was growth in second half revenues despite the uncertainty brought about by tariffs. Net debt was £11m at the end of August 2025.

Laundry technology developer Xeros Technology (XSG) has raised £3m at 1.75p/share and a retail offer closing on 11 November could raise up to £1m more. There is also a follow-on subscription of £2m planned for later in November. This will strengthen the balance sheet so that existing contracts can be fulfilled and new opportunities progressed. Cavendish has published a 2026 forecast, which expects revenues to rise from £600,000 in 2025 to £1.4m. There will be initial filtration sales through Russell Hobbs and royalty payment from Yilmak. A 2026 loss of £2.1m is forecast. Even without the additional £2m there will still be net cash at the end of 2026. Revenues are expected to accelerate in 2027 and 2028.

Savannah Resources (SAV) has raised £9.2m at 3.7p/share and a retail offer closing on 11 November could raise more cash. Three of Savannah’s largest shareholders, AMG Lithium BV, Grupo Lusiaves SGPS and Pluris Investments S.A. all subscribed for shares. Savannah Resources is developing the Barroso lithium project in northern Portugal. The cash will fund the acquisition of the Aldeia mining lease, which covers the 100%-owned C-100 mining lease at the Barroso project and to advance that project beyond the Definitive Feasibility Study, which is due to be completed during the first half of 2026.

Tan Delta Systems (TAND) is starting a paid phase 2 trial by one of the world’s largest online retailers to evaluate the company’s real-time oil condition analysis and monitoring systems. This is to monitor gearboxes on conveyor systems at distribution centres. Phase 1 proved the capability on five gearboxes at one distribution hub. The customer has tens of thousands of critical gearboxes across its sites. Tan Delta Systems had £2m in cash at the end of June 2025 after a £1m cash outflow in the previous six months.

Mobile water and environmental testing technology provider Metir (MET) continues in its collaboration with Swansea University to develop methods for detecting PFAS chemical contamination in water and soil. The research has “demonstrated the feasibility of integrating portable liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS) with innovative low-waste extraction materials”. This enables a ‘Lab in a Van’ system that can be deployed in the field. This will reduce turnaround time. Metir’s US instrumentation partner is optimising and scaling up the detector for commercial purposes. Metir is talking to local authorities and industry bodies.

RentGuarantor Holdings (RGG) is raising £2.5m at 12.5p/share. The cash will be used to grow awareness of the company and its rent guarantee service. The company will also further develop its network of partners, and the cash will fund further growth. RentGuarantor founder and chief executive is selling 2.18 million shares at the placing price.

Asiamet Resources (ARS) is selling its interest in the KSK copper project to Norin Mining for gross cash of $105m on a debt free basis. This is dependent on shareholder approval. Most of the proceeds ae likely to be distributed to shareholders.

Power generator OPG Power Ventures (OPG) is launching a tender offer of up to 182 million shares at 6.27p/share. This is part of the plan to leave AIM. The proposal will be put to shareholders at a general meeting on 3 December.

Aerospace composite components manufacturer Velocity Composites (VEL) has been hit by lower than expected Airbus A350 production. This is due to supply chain issues at Airbus. There have also been delays in programme transfers in the US. Dowgate has cut its full year revenues forecast from £23m to £20.7m. This means that the loss would be £900,000.

Aptamer Group (APTA) has gained a new contract with an existing top 5 pharma customer. This the third project and it is to develop Optimer binders against three key drug targets and provide support for assay development. Aptamer retains the IP. Aptamer has a signed total contract value of £1.75m.

Trading in Secure Property Development and Investment (SPDI) shares is suspended ahead of a potential reverse takeover of energy storage technology business AdvEn Inc. There would be an all share bid with a placing to raise cash. The company has made two loans to the potential takeover target ahead of the deal. AdvEn produces advanced carbon materials for use in supercapacitors and batteries.

MAIN MARKET

Shipbroker Braemar (BMS) says there is recovery in its markets, but interim revenues fell 16% to £63.9m and there was a sharper fall in profit. The interim dividend is 2.5p/share. Net debt is £7.4m. The order book is worth $73.8m.

New Frontier Minerals (NFM) announced a drill programme of up to 46 holes at the Harts Range Heavy Rare Earths project in Australia. Approval for the drilling campaign is imminent. This could unlock significant value.

Cancer tests developer Cizzle Biotechnology (CIZ) has entered a letter of intent with a medical diagnostic services provider that is in partnership with the NHS. This will help to verify and validate the CIZ1B biomarker test. The company has raised up to £250,000 from a convertibles issue to Frazer Lang. This is an extension of a £150,000 loan.

First Tin (1SN) says drilling at the Taronga tin project in Australia confirms extended mineralisation.

Nanoco (NANO) has extended its joint development agreement with the Asian chemical customer. The three-year extension is to further develop the material and scale up the manufacturing process of the Quantum Dot nanomaterial for silicon sensors to enable Short Wave Infrared capabilities. There is an inflationary increase in fees.

Andrew Hore

 

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

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