Home » Posts tagged 'qbt'
Tag Archives: qbt
Quoted Micro 13 April 2026
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Oscillate (SRVL), which is changing its name to Serval Resources, raised £34,000 in its retail offer at 22.5p/share, which is below the maximum level of £300,000. It is acquiring Kalahari Copper and moving to AIM on 27 April.
Digital assets investor Valereum (VLRM) has received confirmation that the $300,000 cash element of the coupon is being paid in instalments over four days. Further amounts due from strategic partner Quorum Global Photonics (QGP), which is a 49.7% shareholder, are expected to be paid under the $200m royalty and streaming financing agreement. Pieter Scholtz and Gerhard Kotzee are directors of both companies.
Wishbone Gold (WSBN) plans to acquire the Silver Lake project in Western Australia. Before that happens, historic data will be further analysed. If it goes ahead 3.57 million shares will be issued for the acquisition.
Hot Rocks Investments (HRIP) has made new investments in Central Gold, Futuro Resources and Cobra Resources (COBR). Investee company Mendell Helium (MDH) is moving from Aquis to AIM, and 49%-owned Sunshine Gold Capital has been granted a third tenement as part of the Dexter gold project, which is near to two existing gold mines in Western Australia.
Stack BTC (STAK) made a loss of £110,000 in the six months to January 2026. There was cash of £51,000 at the end of January 2026 and since then £4.28m has been raised. There have been 31 Bitcoin acquired. The focus is finding a business to acquire.
Ethtry (ETHY) has spent £100,000 to buy 66.6737 Ethereum. It owns 816.6737 Ethereum.
Cooks Coffee Company (COOK) was franchisor of the year (expanding food and non-food) in the 2026 Irish Franchise Association Awards, and a franchisee was named franchisee of the year.
Shepherd Neame (SHEP) non-exec director George Barnes bought 2,173 shares at 458p each. Falconedge (EDGE) chief executive Roy Kashi and family have bought 2.9 million shares for an average of just over 1p each. The total holding has risen to 6.45%. EPE Special Opportunities (LON: EO.P) directors Clive Spears and David Pirouet each bought 5,968 shares at 176p and 168p respectively.
TechFinancials has changed its name to Ubuntu Mining and Metals Inc (UNTU).
ASSET MATCH
Brewer Wadworth and Company (WAD) says 2025 accounts should be published later in April. Strong Christmas trading meant like-for-like sales were 7% ahead. Beer volumes were 16% higher in the first two months of the year as the company sold more of its beer via its own pubs. Like-for-like sales of the group are 4% higher, but margins are under pressure even though gas and electricity costs are set until 2029. One pub was sold in January.
AIM
RentGuarantor (RGG) growth is accelerating with first quarter revenues more than doubling to £880,000 and this has sparked an upgrade. New partners have been brought onboard. It is also offering a new product with mydeposits that combines insuring rent deposits with the rent guarantee service. Allenby has increased its 2026 pre-tax profit forecast by 26% to £300,000. This would be a maiden profit.
Van Elle (VANL) is recommending a 52.3p/share cash bid from STRABAG UK, which values the ground engineering company at £58.8m. The share price has not been that high for more than three years. The directors had talks with other suitors before receiving this bid approach. Vienna-based STRABAG provides construction services, and it was seeking to expand in the UK.
Alien Metals (UFO) says joint venture partner GreenTech Minerals has identified material upside potential for the Munni Munni Platinum-Palladium-Copper-Nickel project in Western Australia not included in the current mineral resource estimate of 24Mt @ 2.9 g/t PGE₄ for 2.2Moz. Alien Metals has a 30% interest and a free carry until completion of a bankable feasibility study. High grade zones have been identified and there is potential for open pit mining. The results of the maiden drilling programme should be announced later this month. Joint venture partner West Coast Silver has announced a 1,500 metre drilling programme for the Elizabeth Hill silver project in Western Australia.
Data analysis software and services provider Celebrus Technologies (CLBS) says full year revenues are broadly in line with expectations at $23.3m, down from $38.7m because of a change in business model, and the loss will be around $200,000. Annualised recurring revenues grew from $13.6m to $15m. Two bank customers sold off parts of their businesses, so their payments were reduced. Some expected deals at contracted stage were lost or delayed and Celebrus Technologies is improving its skills in winning new clients. Cash was $32m at the end of March 2026. Another loss is anticipated for 2026-27.
Mercantile Ports and Logistics (MPL) is pursuing legal remedies to regain control of port operating subsidiary, Karanja Terminal & Logistics. One bank did not sanction an agreement for a one-time settlement of company debt with the consortium of banks. The court has told the Committee of Creditors holding the company debt to consider an offer to redeem 100% of outstanding debt. There has been no progress and there are potential buyers interested in the assets. An international oil and gas company is a potential provider of funds to help redeem the debt. A meeting was held to consider Mercantile’s proposal on Friday 10 April.
The shares of Secure Property Development and Investment (SPDI) returned from suspension. The property company amended heads of agreement with energy storage technology developer Adven, which it is proposed will acquired SPDI, so it is not a reverse takeover anymore. Instead, Adven intends to join AIM and launch a share exchange for SPDI. Adven can then raise money via EIS.
Steppe Cement (STCM) has increased cement sales in Kazakhstan in the first quarter of 2026 to 344,058 tonnes, from 276,217 tonnes in the same period last year. The average price was one-fifth higher at around $57/tonne. Market share increased to 16%. Capacity is being increased and the final estimated cost is $35m.
Atome (ATOM) is in the final stages of negotiations for the funding of the Villeta fertiliser project in Paraguay. Definitive documentation with the equity consortium is expected by 17 April. The potential funders are likely to be at the IMF and World Bank spring meetings at that time.
Physiomics (PYC) has accepted a general meeting request from Michael Whitlow, who owns 13.7%, and the meeting is on29 April. Michael Whitlow wanted to appoint Nicholas Tulloch, Ian Bagnall, Martin Gouldstone (later removed) and himself as directors and remove Dr Jim Millen, Shalabh Kumar, Dr Tim Corn, and Dr Peter Sargent, as long as least two of the new directors are appointed. The board did offer to appoint two non-execs to replace two existing ones, but it felt that the remuneration requested was too high. The board believes that the disruption could hamper the ability to commercialise its IP. They are asking shareholders to vote against the resolutions.
Quantum Blockchain Technologies (QBT) says a court has stopped enforcement of a €6m plus damages award against Sipiem relating to the Mediapolis business. The company has not been able to enforce the seizing of property of a former Sipiem director because he has declared bankruptcy. The liquidation of Mediapolis is being completed and a further distribution of €132,000 is expected to be received by the end of June.
MAIN MARKET
Financial management software developer Aptitude Software (LSE: APTD) has decided to seek a potential purchaser as well as considering other options for the business. It is possible that other businesses would be sold to concentrate on Fynapse. The refocus on that product led to a 1% dip to £49.8m even though Fynapse sales were higher. Recurring revenues were £54.4m and operating profit was flat at £10m. Net cash is £21.2m. The dividend is 5.4p/share.
Solvonis Therapeutics (SVNS) has been granted a US patent for its PTSD programme. The patent covers a chemically distinct monoamine modulator series designed to modulate serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline transporter systems (SERT, DAT and NET) and lasts February 2043.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 9 March 2026
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Mendell Helium (MDH) says M3 Helium, which it has an option to acquire that has been extended to 30 April, will commence drilling of the next Fort Dodge well during March. This is near to the Rost 1-26 well. Further drilling permits are being sought for deeper helium prospects. A US investor group may co-fund the Rost twin well. There is also a potential deal to co-develop a shut-in well. The publication of the AIM admission document should be in March.
Ajax Resources (AJAX) has entered an option to purchase 100% of the Macacha copper and silver project, previously known as the Leon project, in Argentina. An initial $100,000 will be paid in shares. Ajax Resources will pay $3m when the option is exercised within 36 months of Environmental Impact Assessment publication. There is a mineral resource estimate of 6.6 million tonnes of Indicated and Inferred resources at 0.62% copper and 18 g/t silver. This equates to approximately 40,900 tonnes of contained copper and 3.8 million ounces of silver, representing an in-situ gross metal value of approximately $900m at prevailing market prices. The deeper mineralisation has not been tested. Former AIM company Alexander Mining had undertaken trial mining at the project. Management is talking with two potential buyers of its interest in the Eureka gold and copper project.
Delta Gold Technologies (DGQ) is advancing the University of Toronto C$259,000 from the year 2 sponsorship earlier than expected. This is part of the C$1m commitment. The cash will finance the addition of a second component to the Cryo-refrigeration system, which allows testing of nano-scale structures.
Astrid Intelligence (ASTR) director Siam Kidd acquired 23.9 million shares at 0.187p each, prior to his becoming chief executive. The company has increased its TAO token deployment into an over the counter partnership transaction with video intelligence infrastructure developer Score (Subnet 44), operating within the Bittensor ecosystem. This means Astrid has bought 78,740.05 alpha at an implied price of 0.0127 TAO per alpha. Astrid has launched Astrid Vault, an on-chain platform designed to improve liquidity and stability across the Bittensor AI network.
Digital assets developer Coinsilium (COIN) has confirmed that the balance sheet has been strengthened and the portfolio is maturing. A subsidiary owns 182 Bitcoin. The Yellow Network Token and Trading Platform launch is scheduled for 8 March 2026. Coinsillium wants to have broader participation in the network.
Tamar Minerals (TMR) has raised £1.7m at 3p/share and acquired Godolphin Mining for £350,000 of shares at the same price. Godolphin Mining owns the Duke of Leeds mineral rights in Cornwall, and it is owned by Tamar Minerals chairman Mark Thompson. This will eliminate rent and lease-based royalties.
Emission reduction products developer Sulnox Group (SNOX) has secured a distribution agreement with Egypt-based Pan Marine Petroleum Services and the first commercial order has been placed. This deal provides access to trade in the Suez Canal.
Stack BTC (STAK) has bought an initial 21 Bitcoin at £53,729 each.
Capital for Colleagues (CFCP) investee company Morris Commercial, which is developing the Morris JE electric van, has raised a further £1.5m in convertible notes and Capital for Colleagues has invested an additional £500,000. Deliveries of the van could start in 2027.
Crushmetric Group (CUSH) has raised £160,000 through a share issue at 8.5p/share.
Equipmake (EQIP) finance director Ian Selby bought an initial 375,000 shares at 1.39p each. Chairman Tim Metcalfe and his wife acquired 971,222 shares at 1.39p each.
AIM
Restaurants operator Various Eateries (VARE) is acquiring a portfolio of premium pubs from Grosvenor Pubs and Inns. The first four sites should be acquired for £11.25m by 23 March, and another site could be bought soon afterwards. Four of the five sites are freehold. The initial four sites generated revenues of £10.5m and EBITDA of £1.5m. These sites will operate under the brand The Linwood Collection. A £15m debt facility will fund the acquisitions. The company will change its name to Coppa Collective.
FRP Advisory has been appointed as administrator of video streaming technology group Aferian (AFRN) and it has sold the subsidiaries of the company to Sapphire Technology Group for $1.3m, plus $700,000 of deferred consideration payable in January 2027 if the annual revenues of the subsidiaries are at least $30.6m and annual recurring revenues are greater than $8.9m. The outstanding debt of Aferian is $16.5m.
CyanConnode (CYAN) has negotiated a revised non-binding proposal from Esyasoft, which recently acquired Good Energy. The offer is 10.44p/share, valuing CyanConnode at £37.5m. The original indicative offer was 9.75p/share. The share price has not been above 10p since April 2025.
FIH Group (FIH) is selling The Portsmouth Harbour Ferry Company for £11.6m. The ultimate buyer is Collins River Enterprises, which trades under Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. The ferry operator has a net book value of £7.59m and made a pre-tax profit of £530,000 under the ownership of FIH.
General Motors has informed Surface Transforms (SCE) that is re-sourcing supply of brake discs. This contract generated £15.3m in 2025, which was 84% of group revenues. The contract was expected to last until 2030. General Motors has provided advanced payments and financial support of £14.4m. The company has not yet spoken directly to General Motors. The contract loss is a major blow and Surface Transforms will employ corporate restructuring advisers.
Molecular diagnostics company Novacyt (NCYT) has launched a preferential subscription rights issue to raise €785,000 at €0.40/share. Shareholders are offered one share for every 36 they hold. The subscription period ends on 17 March. This follows the acquisition of Southern Cross Diagnostics for £4.4m, which will enable entry to the Australian market as well as adding products that can be distributed in other countries. The previous owner of Southern Cross has committed to subscribe for shares, as have some members of the Novacyt board. The final subscriptions depend on the take up of other shareholders. Novacyt generated revenues of around £20m in 2025, but remains loss making, and cash was £19.2m at the end of 2025.
Business and healthcare software provider AdvancedAdvT (ADVT) has launched a £10m share buyback programme and is also considering a tender offer. This will depend on the potential for acquisitions. There was £96m in the bank at the end of February 2026.
Digital marketing services provider Silver Bullet Data Services (SBDS) expects to report flat revenues in 2025 because of a weak quarter four due to the US government shutdown and uncertainty over tariffs. Costs have been reduced and the company is making a positive EBITDA so far in 2026. Trading is improving and committed revenues are 73% of expected revenues for 2026.
Xeros Technology (XSG) says its filtration manufacturing partner has received an order from MediaMarkt, the largest consumer electronics retailer in Europe, for XF3 units that will be sold under its Koenic brand. Xeros receives a royalty on each unit. Russell Hobbs will launch XF3 in the second quarter of 2026.
Quantum Blockchain Technologies (QBT) has had a busy week. It has delivered its first Bitcoin mining rig to one of its three ASIC manufacturers that is a potential partner. The company is working on implementing the software version of Method C AI Oracle into the rig’s operating system. This follows progress with patent applications. Discussions have been held with interested parties at the Nashville Energy & Mining Summit in late January.
Beacon Energy (BCE) has been readmitted to AIM following the purchase of a 48% stake in Italian gas projects developer LN Energy, which holds 90% of the Colle Santo field in onshore Italy. The field has 2P gas reserves of 12mmboe and could start producing within 18 months. The rise in gas prices makes the field potentially even more strongly cash generative. This will cost $30m and be funded by debt. Beacon Energy has raised £3.75m at 3.9p/share.
Brave Bison (BBSN) has acquired a 22.9% stake in market research services provider System1 (SYS1) from the founder John Kearon in return for 9.81 million shares in Brave Bison (8.7%). He has stepped down from the System1 board. Brave Bison is supportive of System1’s strategy.
Investment company Onward Opportunities (ONWD) plans to move to the Main Market to broaden the potential investor base. This could happen in the second quarter. NAV was 136.9p/share at the end of February 2026.
MicroSalt (SALT) has received an order from a new flavours and ingredients customer in the UK.
MAIN MARKET
Seraphim Space Investment Trust (SSIT) increased NAV from 118.5p/share to 142.3p/share in the six months to December 2025. The larger investments have all increased due to new contracts being won and some fundraisings at higher valuations in the period and they have continued to progress in 2026. This reflects the strong institutional interest in space investment. Increasing defence spending is increasing the potential market value of the space sector.
New Frontier Minerals (NFM) has identified tungsten at the harts Range project in Northern Territory, but significant concentrations or rare earth materials were not found.
Mears (MER) has sold education and health facilities management business Morrison Facilities Services for £18m. It generated a pre-tax profit of £2.8m last year.
Bitcoin investor and wed development company The Smarter Web Company (SWC) has bought another 3 Bitcoin at £47,871 each. That takes the total holding to 2,692 Bitcoin. The company will become a constituent of the FTSE SmallCap index on 23 March.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 8 December 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Amazing AI (AAI), whose shares are suspended because its corporate adviser has resigned, is asking for shareholder approval to leave Aquis. Considering the negative publicity this is not a surprise.
Delta Gold Technologies (DQG) joined Aquis on 1 December 2025 when it raised £2.5m at 10p/share. The company is developing quantum computing technology that can be licenced. This involves nano-space gold and other materials. The share price improved 28.75% to 12.875p. Bitcoin mining company Sterling Digital (ASIC) was the other company that joined Aquis on 1 December, and it raised £5m at 5p/share. The cash will fund a 3MW Bitcoin mining facility in Texas powered by flared gas. The share price reached 5.25p on the first day but ended the week unchanged at 5p.
Valereum (VLRM) is progressing with the 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. The new company has been established, and 12.6 million shares have been issued to Quorium Global Photonics SPC at par value. These shares have to be retained until the $200m of capital is released. The deal is subject to compliance and regulatory approvals. Valereum is applying to join the OTCQB Market, having sold its stake in London BTC Company (BTC), which had previously prevented qualification.
Time to Act (TTA) is interested in acquiring the assets of Versarien, which has gone into administration. Subsidiary GreenSpur Wind has won a design contract with Severn Estuary Tidal Bar, which is developing Very Low Head tidal turbine systems. There will be an assessment of GreenSpur’s axial-flux generator technology in relation to the turbine systems. This should be completed in January.
WeCap (WCAP) has provided an update on its shareholding in WeShop. The WeShop share price rose early in the week and then fell back to $126.61 and daily volumes are well below those in the first week of trading. WeCap is not allowed to sell shares before 15 November 2026. It will have to repay the £6.965m discounted capital bond by 24 May 2026. WeCap is talking to the bond holder.
Hot Rocks Investments (HRIP) has bought a further 500,000 WeShop shares, taking its stake to 537,500. It is paying 99 million shares and 173.1 million performance warrants exercisable at 1.2p each to Sidney PTC, but the shares cannot be transferred until the lock-in period ends on 15 November 2026. The initial 101.5 million of warrants can be exercised when the WeShop share price exceeds $213.34 and the rest when the price is higher than $426.67.
Alex Appleton, Sarah Gow and Pierre Villeneuve have resigned as directors of wind-based hydrogen production technology developer Energy B (NRGB), formerly known as Hydrogen Future Industries. This is leading to a review of the Bitcoin given the reduction in investor interest for this. Additional cash will be required for the business.
Ananda Developments (ANA) has received ethics and MHRA approval for the phase 2 clinical trial for the efficacy of MRX1 in treating Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy. The company has redeemed its 600,000 convertible loan notes in return for 150 million shares at 0.4p each. Charles Morgan’s stake is 56.3%. Shareholder approval for leaving Aquis is expected at the general meeting on 12 December.
Phoenix Digital Assets (PNIX) plans to redomicile from the UK to Gibraltar, which already has rules relating to distributed ledger technologies. There are also experienced advisers in Gibraltar.
Global Connectivity (GCON) investee company PLUG Group has raised £1.05m at £21/share. Global Connectivity director Michael Langoulant bought 5,000 shares. Global Connectivity acquired its 87,625 shares at 200p each.
B HODL (HODL) entered into two unsecured, zero-coupon Bitcoin denominated convertible loan with Adam Black and with CoinCorner Ltd. The combined amount covered is 2.1 Bitcoin and they last for three years. The conversion share price is 11.55p.
TechFinancials (TECH) has still not received the £250,000 of placing proceeds it has been waiting for because of transfer problems.
Global Chain, a company associated with NYCE International (NYCE) director Harmen Brenninkmeijer, bought 44,291 shares at 11.06p each, taking its stake to 20.97%.
IntelliAM AI (INT) says the retail offer was oversubscribed. It has raised £260,000.
Shortwave Life Sciences (PSY) consolidated 10 shares into one new share on 2 December.
The Smarter Web Company (SWC) has not raised any cash from share subscriptions in the past two weeks. Shareholders have approved share buybacks.
Mendell Helium (MDH) has extended the broker option over up to 10 million shares until 8 December. An additional subscription of £600 has been received.
JP JENKINS
The JP Jenkins 15 index rose 4.5% to 1147.2p in November, which is the largest monthly increase since March. There was a significant rise in THG Ingenuity. Quarterly reweighting will be in January 2026.
ASSET MATCH
Byotrol (BYOT) increased interim sales from £1.93m to £2.18m and reduced the loss from £672,000 to £319,000. There was a small cash inflow from operating activities and cash was £299,000 at the end of September 2025. The infection control products company has convertible loan stock of £962,000. Cash may be required by the middle of next year. Full year sales could be as high as £4.5m.
Brewer Wadworth (WAD) says like-for-like sales are 3% ahead with own beer sales 12% higher in the year to date. Wadworth has had to absorb £750,000 of additional costs in recent months because of the 2024 Budget. Christmas trading will be important for the full year outcome.
Gulfsands Petroleum (GPX) is seeking shareholder approval to restructure is capital to consolidate shares and get rid of shareholders with fewer than 200,000 shares. A share facility will be set up for those with fewer than 200,000 shares and for the fractional entitlement of those with higher numbers of shares. If the payment would be les than £25 the shareholder will not receive any cash. Investors can bid to increase their shareholding to one divisible by 200,000. There will be a subsequent subdivision and there will be 45.14 million shares in issue. The company wants to be in a position to resume operations in Syria.
Zytronic (ZYT) says the buyer of its property is seeking to secure better financing terms. This will delay the sale. The distribution is still expected to be in the range of 48p-58p/share.
AIM
Zimbabwe is changing its royalty and tax regimes. There is an increase in the royalty rate from 5% to 10% when the gold price exceeds $2,500/ounce – applied to the full gold price – and the 100% upfront deduction for capital spending will be spread across the life of the project. This could affect the Bilboes gold project being developed by Caledonia Mining Corporation (CMCL), where production costs would be much higher, as well as its existing production. Cavendish has reduced its 2026 earnings forecast from 2.97 cents/share to 2.62 cents/share.
Health assessment technology developer GENinCode (GENI) has secured a collaboration agreement with Thermo Fisher Scientific to distribute and manufacture the CARDIO inCode-Score® Polygenic Risk Score for the prediction and prevention of heart disease. This follows the New York approval of the test. The deal covers the US as well as Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The FDA approval process is progressing.
Wynnstay Group (WYN) is benefitting from the revised strategy of the new chief executive and trading is slightly better than expected. Feed and grain profit improved even though feed volumes were lower and grain trading was hit by a weaker wheat harvest. The arable division generated better profit on higher fertiliser sales. Like-for-like retail stores sales were flat, although margins improved. Non-recurring charges relating to the restructuring will be between £5.4m and £5.9m. Cash costs will be up to £2.5m. Net cash was £26.4m at the end of October 2025. Shore Capital raised its 2024-25 pre-tax profit forecast by 6% to £9m, compared with £7.6m in the previous year. Three directors each bought 2,891 shares at 345p each following the trading statement.
One Health Group (OHGR) did even better than expected in the first half. Interim revenues were 10% ahead at £15.5m, while underlying pre-tax profit rose from £895,000 to £1.28m. Earnings were flat at 6.89p/share because of the shares issued earlier this year when One Health switched from Aquis to AIM. Net cash was £9.7m at the end of September 2025. The interim dividend was edged up from 2.07p/share to 2.1p/share. Management is confident that the surgical hub can be up and running one year after full permissions are received.
Fulcrum Metals (FMET) has achieved more than 70% gold and silver recoveries at Teck Hughes in Canada. This is part of the phase 3 metallurgical work. Previous gold recovery levels were 59.4%. Full results from the tests are expected in the first quarter of 2026, and this will support a mineral resource estimate. This will be followed by a phase 4 preliminary feasibility study.
Iodine producer Iofina(IOF) has signed an agreement with Western Midstream Partners to develop its next IOsorb plant in the Permian Basin between western Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Up until now Iofina has been producing iodine in the Anadarko Basin in western Oklahoma. The new plant will be twice as large as existing plants with a capacity to process 50,000 barrels of brine water per day supplied by Western Midstream. It will cost up to $9m to construct with annual production of up to 220 metric tonnes of iodine. The new plant could be producing before the end of 2026.
Advanced coatings provider Hardide (HDD) has received a significant order from a North American energy sector customer with a value of £1.75m. This is higher than expected and there could be more to come. The forecast revenues for 2025-26 have been raised by £1m to £8m and pre-tax profit increased from £600,000 to £1.1m – indicating the operational gearing.
North Sea oil and gas company Deltic Energy (DELT) recommended a 7.46p/share bid from Rockrose Energy, which is owned by Viaro Energy, at the end of June but completion is still dependent on the North Sea regulator NSTA. NSTA wants further information in order to reach a decision to grant the change of control of licences. The long stop of the bid has been extended to the end of March 2026.
Synergia Energy (SYN) is selling its 50% stake in the Cambay PSC for $14m and $500,000 has already been received. The initial payment is $6.5m with a further $7m 12 months after completion. This deal requires India government approval. Synergia Energy is asking for shareholder approval to leave AIM, and it will return cash to shareholders via a share buyback. A matched bargain facility may be put in place.
Anglesey Mining (AYM) shares trebled to 0.825p after it entered into a binding letter of intent with largest shareholder Energold Minerals Inc that will enable a restructuring of the business and improve the balance sheet. Two of Anglesey Mining’s investments will be swapped for the elimination of £4m of debt. Energold Minerals is paying £350,000 for non-voting exchangeable warrants to provide immediate cash. The focus will be the Parys Mountain project. Energold Mining president Brendan Cahill and Jim Williams are joining the board.
Barely more than two weeks after reporting its interims, musical instruments retailer Gear4Music (G4M) says trading has been very strong over the past weekend. This means expectations have been raised and the full year EBITDA forecast increased from £15.2m to £16.7m.
Quantum Blockchain Technologies (QBT) has entered into three non-disclosure agreements with ASIC manufacturers in relation to its Bitcoin mining technology. They have developed equipment that will be made available to QBT so that it can install and test its software. Another non-disclosure agreement has been signed with a Bitcoin mining pool. This could bypass the need to modify the operating system of mining machines using the pool.
MAIN MARKET
US cybersecurity company Narf Industries (NARF) has gained a contract worth $3.6m from a US government agency. This is for a two-year period and is to develop a way of accelerating computer system recovery after cyber-attacks.
New Frontier Minerals (NFM) has commenced drilling at the Harts Range heavy rare earths and niobium project. There will be up to 46 holes. This follows the recent fundraising.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 27 January 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Cooks Coffee Company (COOK), which owns the Esquires coffee shops, increased group store sales by 26% to £25.5m in the nine months to December 2024. The growth was 32% in the latest quarter. The number of sies has risen from 71 to 87 over the past 12 months with all but three franchised. So far in this financial year, UK like-for-like sales are 2.8% higher and sales in Ireland are ahead by 5.1%. A further six stores are planned in the current quarter and there should be more than 100 stores by the end of 2025. The business is generating cash from operations.
Healthcare IT software provider DXS International (DXSP) grew interim revenues by 2% to £1.73m and the pre-tax loss was slashed from £258,000 to £59,000, helped by grant income of £170,000. There was a small post-tax profit after R&D tax credits. There was no capitalised development pending in the period and the cash position improved over six months to £96,000. Chairman Bob Sutcliffe bought 50,000 shares at 2p each and 37,037 shares at 2.7p each. He owns 1.93% of the company.
Cardiometabolic health products developer ProBiotix Health (PBX) reported 13% growth in net sales to £1.88m, while the order book for the first quarter is worth £620,000. The EBIDA loss fell from £709,000 to £568,000. There was cash of £1.65m at the end of 2024. The relationship with SEED Health in the enabled the launch of products in 2,000 Target stores, which drove growth in US sales. There are negotiations that could lead to ingredient sales in China. Management believes that the company can reach breakeven by early 2026.
Wishbone Gold (WSBN) has signed non-binding heads of terms for the acquisition of Evrensel Global Natural Resources, which has mining and trading activities in Africa. This would be a reverse takeover. Existing Wishbone Gold shareholders are likely to own 30% of the enlarged group. Wishbone Gold chairman Anthony Moore owns the Gibraltar-based target company. Some or all of the existing Australian mining assets are likely to be sold.
Brewer Shepherd Neame (SHEP) has launched a share buyback programme worth up to £500,000. The shares will be cancelled. This should enhance earnings. Like-for-like retail sales were 7.4% ahead over the Christmas and New Year period with particularly strong sales within the M25. First half like-for-like retail sales were 4.4% higher, while tenanted pub sales were slightly higher. Beer volumes slipped 12.6%. A change in logistics arrangements will add £1.5m to costs. Wage and National Insurance costs will rise by an annualised £2.6m. Management will try to offset these rises through price increases and improved efficiency.
ChallengerX (CXS) is in negotiations for the potential acquisitions of Nyce International and Virya VC. Hng Kong-based NYCE International helps to accelerate the sales and product distribution process for gaming companies. UK-based Virya provides executive and directorship services for the betting and gaming sector. As part of this proposed transaction ChallengerX will secure a perpetual licence for Reelsoft AB’s Vision RGS (Remote Gaming Server) and Game Aggregation Platform. ChallengerX had net liabilities of £187,000 at the end of June 2024.
Property investor Ace Liberty and Stone (ALSP) edged up rental by 1% to £2.75m in the first half. Higher interest costs and a £37,515 disposal loss meant that the loss increased from £5,000 to £243,000. NAV is £31.4m, while the market capitalisation is £33.7m. Net debt is £46.3m.
RentGuarrantor Holdings (RGG) increased fourth quarter revenues by 88% through a 73% rise in tenant contracts.
BWA Group (BWAP) says that initial mineral resources for the Dehane project in Cameroon are 4.2 million tonnes at a 3.5% cut0ff. That comprises 0.99% ilmenite, 0.13% rutile and 0.11% zircon. Results of the kyanite test work are expected in the second quarter. That could lead to an update to the mineral resources estimate.
Fintech and blockchain technology company Tap Global Group (TAP) has increased monthly revenues to £451,000 in December. Revenues for the six-month period rose from £1.29m to £1.8m and there should be a positive EBITDA for the period.
Eight Capital Partners (ECP) is planning a capital reorganisation and conversion of its 4.8% bond into shares. There will be a consolidation of 4,000 shares into one new share. The bond will be converted into 810,325 new shares, thereby reducing debt by £910,000. The record date is 29 January.
Capital for Colleagues (CFCP) had NAV of 82p/share at the end of August 2024, down from 87.9p/share at the end of May 2024. There was £1.24m in the bank. The tough economic conditions led to downgraded valuations of some earlier stage investments.
SulNOx Group (SNOX) has generated £126,000 from the exercise of options at 36p each by a former director. It has also settled £36,330 of costs via issuing shares. SulNOx has secured a patent in Nigeria for its improved oil/water separation methodology.
At the end of 2024, EPE Special Opportunities (EO.P) had an NAV of 292.78p/share.
Mark Horrocks has reduced his stake in WeCap (WCAP) from 5.03% to 4.8%. Premier Miton’s stake in Global Connectivity (GCON) has reduced from 5.21% to 3.69%. First Car International increased its Samarkand Group (SMK) shareholding from 17.6% to 21.6%. Jason Upton has increased his stake in Zentra Group (ZNT) to 3.53%.
Gowin New Energy Group (GWIN) director Chien Chih-Peng has bought 33.16 million shares a 1p each. This is a shareholding of 11.4%. Jia-Hong Guo’s stake has been reduced from 8.74% to under 3%. Chien Chih-Peng has also made a £37,000 loan available to Gowin New Energy.
AIM
Nexus Infrastructure (NEXS) offers civil engineering services, such as earthworks, drainage and foundations, to housebuilders. In the year to September 2024, revenues fell by 36% to £56.7m and it made a £700,000 underlying loss. However, it is already winning new business with housebuilders, such as Vistry and Taylor Wimpey. That has helped the order book grow to £51.6m at the end of September 2024. A further £15.9m of orders have been won since then. Water infrastructure services provider Coleman Construction and Utilities was acquired in October. Following this acquisition, the pro forma cash figure is just below £10m.
Payments technology company Bango (BGO) increased 2024 revenues by 16% to $53.4m. Annualised recurring revenues were 59% higher at $14m. A pre-tax profit of $3m is estimated for 2024, but that includes $2.2m of non-cash income. Net debt is $1.7m. Matt Wilson has replaced Matt Garner as finance director.
Yu Group (YU.) increased energy supplied by 78% in 2024 and margins are better than expected. Revenues did not grow as rapidly because of lower prices, but they are two-fifths higher at approaching £650m. That is lower than the Panmure Liberum estimate of £680m. Managing bad debts and the hedging policy means that the pre-tax profit has edged up from £46m to £48.3m.
Revolution Beauty (REVB) is having a poor fourth quarter to February 2025 with some retail launched delayed until the first quarter of 2025-26. This includes a launch in Walmart in the US. Online trading was also weaker than expected. Full year revenues are forecast to fall by one-quarter to £143.6m and a profit is no longer expected. A £1.6m loss is likely. The 2025-26 pre-tax profit forecast has been more than halved from £5m to £2.4m. Net debt is set to stay around £25m.
GENinCode (GENI) says that its heart disease risk assessment product CARDIO inCode is included in the US 2025 Clinical Lab Fee Schedule enabling reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid. The price varies from $450-$570. It is also being used to prevent heart disease in Catalonia.
There was a short-term trading improvement in December for Sanderson Design Group (SDG), but this has not continued, and profit expectations have been reduced. Band sales are 9% lower. Revenues are expected to decline from £108.6m to £101m, while pre-tax profit could slump from £12.2m to £4.2m – previously £7.2m was forecast. There has been less high margin work for the manufacturing division, which hit overall profitability.
Fuel additives developer Quadrise (QED) generated £4.5m via a placing at 3p/share, which was well above the minimum sought, and a retail offer could raise up to £1m more – although that figure could be increased. The money already raised will last well into 2026.
Shoe retailer Shoe Zone (SHOE) had already warned about the results for the year to September 2024. Pre-tax profit fell from £16.5m to £10m, which was slightly higher than forecast. There is no final dividend – the interim was 2.5p/share. Net cash is £3.6m. Several loss-making stores are being closed. The 2024-25 pre-tax profit is expected to halve to £5m.
Floorcoverings supplier Airea (AIEA) had a much better second half growing by 6% and full year revenues were 0.6% ahead at £21.2m. International sales were still lower in 2024 despite a 11.8% increase in the second half. Inventory levels have been reduced. There will be non-recurring costs. The equipment is expected to be installed in the new manufacturing facility during the second quarter. An investment property worth £4.1m is still up for sale. David and Monique Newlands increased their shareholding from 11.1% to 12.4%.
Bars operator The Revel Collective (TRC) had a good Christmas, but it faces higher costs because of the National Living Wage and National Insurance increases. Annualised costs will rise by £4m. This has led to forecasts of larger than expected losses. Like-for-like Christmas revenues were 1.6% higher. Net debt is expected to be £24m at the end of June 2025.
Managed services provider Tialis Essential IT (TIA) has made a good start to 2025 with preferred partner and contract extensions totalling £17.8m. Some of these are five-year contracts and are higher margin lifecycle management contracts. The 2024 pre-tax profit is expected to be flat at £1.1m, but earnings are forecast to treble to 3.6p/share.
Ariana Resources (AAU) produced 20,900 ounces of gold from its 23.5% owned Zenit mining operations in Turkey. Revenues were $54.7m. Mining is building up at the new Tavsan mine. A resource estimate is expected from Dokwe in Zimbabwe after further drilling analysis.
Quantum Blockchain Technologies (QBT) has raised £2m at 1.15p/share so that it can invest in its Bitcoin mining technology. Last week, it announced a breakthrough for its Bitcoin Artificial Intelligence model mining tool. The Method C AI Oracle provides a 30% improved performance compared with other methods. The company is seeking a chip manufacturing partner to produce a commercial product.
Premier African Minerals (PREM) has raised £540,000 at 0.02p/share. This is interim funding following the decision not to proceed with the fundraising at 0.0275p/share because the retail offer did not raise enough to reach a total raising of £3.5m. The company will require more cash and I talking to its offtake partner.
MAIN MARKET
LED lighting and wiring accessories supplier Luceco (LUCE) had a strong fourth quarter despite the tough market conditions for some parts of the business. Trading was better than forecast with a modest improvement in pre-tax profit to £21.9m expected. Net debt is expected to be £69m.
Dukemount Capital (DKE) had £28,000 in cash at the end of September 2024, while net assets were £59,000.
Neuchatel Investment is subscribing for 29.9% of Aseana Properties Ltd (ASPL). This is expected to raise $5.45m at $0.08 cents/share.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 20 January 2025
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
SulNOx Group (SNOX) has signed an agreement with Eastern Pacific Shipping, which will use the SulNOxEco additive on a minimum of 30 vessels for at least 18 months. The data from this evaluation could be used for marketing. Easten Pacific Shipping will introduce other potential shipping company clients, and it is subscribing for up to 11.7 million shares in tranches at 2p each. This will happen over the 18-month period. There will be a subscription of up to 4.72 million additional shares at 2p each, which will be over a three-year period. This could total up to 11.8% of the enlarged share capital.
Marula Mining (MARU) says that the Kinusi coper mine is selling a total of 1,000t to four commodity trading groups. The sales have been delayed but should be completed by the end of January. Metallurgical test work results are expected later in January. Management is seeking to secure offtake agreements and non-dilutive funding.
Kasei Digital Assets (KASH) is conducting a strategic review, which could include a departure from Aquis or return of cash to shareholders. Management believes that the outlook for the market for digital assets is positive. However, costs are negatively affecting performance. There is cash of £782,000 and digital assets of £4.26m.
Visum Technologies (VIS) has raised £100,000 from a convertible loan note issue. The conversion price is 0.5p/share. This will fund due diligence for potential acquisitions.
IntelliAM AI (INT) says David Richards is stepping down as chairman at the beginning of July.
Max Capital reduced its shareholding in WeCap (WCAP) from 8.09% to 7.94%. Brompton Asset Management has increased its stake in Global Connectivity (GCON) to 13.96%. RAJ Bailey bought 7,376 shares in Daniel Thwaites (THW) at 89p each.
AIM
Fortress Investment has raised its recommended bid for pubs and bars operators Loungers (LGRS) from 310p/share to 325p/share. Broker Singer did not believe that the original bid fully reflected the value of the business and argued that 375p/share would be a fairer value. Loungers at £338.3m was forecast to make a 2024-25 pre-tax profit of £18m, up from £13.9m last year, rising to £23.8m in 2025-26.
Fintech Fiinu (BANK) has signed heads of agreement for the first white-label deal for its Plugin Overdraft with a UK bank. It will provide a Banking-as-a-Service platform including Plugin Overdraft and requires regulatory approval and testing. The bank will have exclusivity in the UK for 12-months from launch, which could be in the fourth quarter of 2025. There will be royalty fees based on profit generated by the bank from the Plugin Overdraft.
Thor Explorations (THX) says that the Segilola mine in Nigeria produced 24,6000 ounces of gold, taking the total for 2024 to 85,000 ounces. Guidance for 2025 is 85,000 ounces-95,000 ounces. The all in sustaining costs are expected to be $808/ounce. Thor Explorations has moved into a net cash position. Exploration is focused on extending the life of the mine beyond 2028. Thee were positive results announced earlier in January. There should be news concerning the Nigerian federal authorities into the Osun state authorities allegations of underpayment of tax. The PFS for the Douta project in Senegal should be released in the first quarter of 2025.
Michael Ashcroft wants data and information publisher Merit Group (MRIT) to leave AIM. This follows his success in persuading Jaywing (JWNG) to back his AIM cancellation plan for the marketing services business. He owns 42% of Merit Group, so he has a high chance of success. A general meeting will be set within 21 days.
Deltex Medical Group (DEMG) also announced plans to leave AIM. This will save £200,000/year. Last year’s revenues from sales of heart monitoring systems improved from £1.8m to £2.1m and cash was £240,000 at the end of 2024. Andy Mears will be replaced as chief executive by Natalie Wettler.
Quantum Blockchain Technologies (QBT) has made a breakthrough for its Bitcoin Artificial Intelligence model mining tool. The Method C AI Oracle can skip calculations if it assesses that they will not be successful. This provides a 30% improved performance compared with other methods. The company is ready to demonstrate the technology and is seeking a chip manufacturing partner to produce a commercial product.
Gift wrap supplier IG Design (IGR) customers did not sell as much as expected over the Christmas period and this has hit orders. On top of the weak demand, there are US customers in financial difficulties. The fourth largest customer has re-entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and total provisions will be around $15m.The American business is predominantly behind the 10% slump in revenues, although the international business revenues were 1% lower. IG Design is only expected to breakeven in the year to March 2025, compared with forecast pre-tax profit of $32m, and forecasts have been withdrawn by Canaccord Genuity.
Security technology supplier Thruvision (THRU) announced a strategic review. Management believes that additional funding will be required to scale up the business. There is currently cash of £1.5m, which will last until May unless potential orders are secured. The cost base will be assessed. Alternatives include bringing in a partner or selling the business.
Digital healthcare platform developer Trellus Health (TRLS) has entered an agreement with Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems Inc for a US pilot programme for Trellus Elevate to support severe inflammatory bowel disease. Trellus Health will receive an upfront licence fee and a monthly fee. Net cash was $8m at the end of June 2024 and the additional income could help to extend the cash runway nearer to the end of 2025.
Pawnbroker Ramsdens (RFX) says improved performances from all divisions helped group revenues improve from £83.8m to £95.6m, while pre-tax profit rose from £10.1m to £11.4m. The dividend was raised from 10.4p/share to 11.2p/share. This year has started well. and management has decided to slow the new store opening programme. There will be more focus on the website.
Packaging equipment and automation provider Mpac Group (MPAC) confirms 2024 trading is in line with expectations. Pre-tax profit should recover from £7.1m to £10.5m. Net debt was £37m at the end of 2024. The order book is worth £111m and covers 53% of forecast 2025 revenues.
Telecoms infrastructure products developer Filtronic (FTC) has appointed David Marshall as director of programmes to ensure their efficient delivery. Sarah Shaw becomes General Counsel to manage commercial contracts and other legal affairs. This follows a positive trading statement that led to Cavendish upgrading its 2024-25 pre-tax profit forecast from £9.6m to £11.5m.
Construction recruitment services provider Hercules Site Services (HERC) has decided to sell its suction excavators business to focus on recruitment. The suction excavators were losing money and holding back performance. The disposal will also reduce borrowings. Labour supply revenues increased from £63.8m to £84.1m. Continuing pre-tax profit improved from £1.6m to £2.6m and further improvement to £3.4m is expected for this year.
Bars and leisure operator XP Factory (XPF) grew like-for-like revenues by 8.5% in the third quarter, which is well above the rate for the rest of the year. The figure for the year so far is 5.5%. Immersive escape rooms operator Escape Hunt was 14% ahead and Boom Battle Bars 17% higher over the Christmas period.
Cross-border payment services provider Finseta (FIN) says 2024 EBITDA will be £2m compared to a forecast of £1.9m. There was £2.2m of cash generated from operating activities. The benefits from investment in the business and new products will show through in 2025.
Premier African Minerals (PREM) has raised £1.2m from a placing at 0.0275p/share. A retail offer could raise up to £2.3m more. The cash will be invested in the Zulu project in Zimbabwe and to pay suppliers. The retail offer closes on 20 January. Some creditors may take shares for the money owed. If the cash raised in the placing and offer plus the capitalisation of debts does not get near to £3.5m the placing and offer will not proceed.
Cambridge Nutritional Sciences (CNSL) has settled its dispute with the UK DHSC with no admission of liability. The DHSC will not seek reimbursement of pre-production payments for Covid tests and Cambridge Nutritional Sciences will not claim for losses for failure to replace orders. The company will have legal costs of £200,000, but it will also release £2.5m from deferred income as exceptional income.
Cannabis-based medicines developer Celadon Pharmaceuticals (CEL) says that the strategic collaboration with Valeos Pharma is contributing to its business. This will enable the acceleration of supply of pharmaceutical grade EU-GMP cannabis active pharmaceutical ingredient products. Valeos Pharma will provide up to three tonnes of annual cultivation capacity, which is equivalent to £8.7m of income/year.
Gaming machines hardware and displays supplier Nexteq (NXQ) had net cash of $29.1m at the end of 2024, which is more than 50% of market capitalisation. Trading problems had already been flagged and there was no additional surprise. There was destocking and delayed product launches by customers. Revenues were 24% lower at $86.7m, which was slightly better than forecast. The results will be published on 19 March.
Supercapacitors developer Cap-XX (LON: CPX) has made its first shipment of co-branded products to electronic components distributor SCHURTER’S warehouse in Switzerland. On delivery, an invoice will be raised.
Construction and property asset management software supplier Eleco (ELCO) has acquired maintenance and management software provider PEMAC for €6m in cash with up to €2.4m payable based on achieving performance targets. Clients include Coca Cola and Heineken. This fits well with the existing ShireSysem product.
Argo Group Ltd (ARGO) is making a tender offer at 5p/share as part of its plan to leave AIM. Shareholders owning 71.2% of the company will not tender shares, so everyone else can have their shares acquired in the tender. The tender closes on 14 February.
MAIN MARKET
Packaging manufacturer and distributor Macfarlane Group (MACF) has acquired protective packaging manufacturer Pitreavie for £18m, with a net initial payable after debt movements of £10.6m. Pitreavie made a 2024 pre-tax profit of £1.3m. There should be cost savings from integrating the business.
Online travel hostel agency Hostelworld (HSW) says strong demand for Asian hostels helped 2024 net bookings rise 6% to 6.9 million, although there was a dip in average booking value. That meant that revenues were 1% lower at €92m. Lower marketing spend meant that margins improved. More bookings were made through the company’s app. Pre-tax profit is expected to jump to €17m. Net cash is €2m. There will be an update on strategy in the second quarter.
Bitcoin miner Vinanz (BTC) switched from Aquis to the Main Market on 13 January. The share price opened at 16.5p and rose to 22.5p before falling back to 16.5p at the end of the week.
Argo Blockchain (ARB) has been told it has until 15 July to regain compliance on Nasdaq with the minimum price requirement of $1 for its ADSs.
Andrew Hore