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New Bulletin Board Moron of the Week contest - sponsored by some scooter courier shop in Vietnam, #1 distributer for Telit
Capital Drilling – half-year results include "broadened" uplift in activity, so why are the shares lower still?
Real Good Food – following tardy profit warning, real bad disclosure & board changes now has required an overdraft facility...
Published 6 days ago
I promised last week to go in to the numerous inconsistencies in the numbers presented by Purplebricks (PURP) but that is going to have to wait as this week's story has got to be Telit (TCM).
Published 11 days ago
Action Hotels (AHCG) the owner and manager of 3 and 4 star hotels in the Middle East and Australia, has opened of its second hotel in Bahrain, ibis Styles Manama Diplomatic Area.
Published 12 days ago
I wrote recently that I wouldn't want to be short Fevertree (FEVR) or Purplebricks (PURP) on the basis that clearly crazy valuations have a habit of getting crazier.
Published 19 days ago
Tungsten Corporation (TUNG) released its prelims for the year to April 2017 this week and there are few signs that a viable business is emerging from the mess left by founder Edi Truell.
Published 24 days ago
Hello, Share Mashers. It is not often that my good self and my more intelligent colleagues Uncle Tom and Steve Moore commend the same share. There are, after all, zillions of choices to be made in the markets. But we did agree on Zytronic (ZYT), the successful niche company that specialises in the very fashionable area of touch sensors.
Published 25 days ago
The accepted market wisdom that one should never be a bear in company throws up a lot of exceptions. Carillion (CLLN), for some time now top of the leaderboard of the most shorted shares on the LSE, is a good example.
Published 27 days ago
I see that UK Oil & Gas (UKOG) has cemented its position as the nation's favourite oil tiddler with a stonking rally to 5.1p since my recent short call at 3p. I haven't received such joyous vitriol on twitter since I called Cloudtag a sell at 7p and saw the shares rise to 20p. Tom Winnifrith gleefully points out that he is glad to see someone take over as the Bulletin Board Moron's No 1 hate figure, at least for now.
Published 28 days ago
For months, shares in R4E (R4E) have been held back because it was in technical breach of the covenants on its bank debt. We never expected the bank to pull with Nigel Wray and Johnny Hon owning c50% of the equity and standing behind the firm. But some BB savants knew better...they always do.
Published 28 days ago
Alliance Pharma (APH) has updated on trading for the first half of 2017, ahead of a results announcement expected on 13th September…
Published 33 days ago
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has announced results for its year ended 30th April 2017 and that "we anticipate a growth in earnings in the new financial year"…
Published 34 days ago
Shares in Fox Marble (FOX) fell by almost 10% to 8.25p-8.5p on the back of news that it had appointed Beaufort Securities, Belfort Secs to its legion of admirers, as the company's joint broker. The assumption is that Belfort, whose clients are mainly bucket shops, will be doing a discounted placing. that is not the case, Fox has enough cash to get it through to profitability but Belfort's reputation proceeds it. Fox has gone on the record to say there is no placing.
Published 40 days ago
I am not a great fan of shorting crazy valuations on the basis that they tend to get crazier. For this reason, I have not been short the likes of Fevertree (FEVR) or Purplebricks (PURP), as calling the top is well-nigh impossible.
Published 41 days ago
We tipped these shares a couple of weeks ago at a 130p offer. Readers of the Nifty Fifty are thus happy bunnies as the shares are now 147p-149p. We do serve up good share tips and Steve and I are now working on our next one! But the shares should head higher still. I explain why in detail - here is our original tip from two weeks ago.
Published 43 days ago
At its AGM in the tax haven and cultural desert that is the Isle of Man, Veltyco (VLTY) was in bullish mood. The brief statement reads:
Published 44 days ago
It was a case of the good, the bad and the ugly but on balance there were a lot more goods than bads. Let's start with the ugly from the Fox Marble (FOX) AGM..
Published 45 days ago
It looks like the game may soon be up for UK-listed, American oil stock promotion Highlands Natural Resources (HNR). In its prelims, announced last week, the company stated that it needs to raise funds either by issuing equity or third-party participation in its East Denver project.
Published 46 days ago
Continuing the sleep-related theme, I wanted to take a look at Snoozebox (ZZZ) that rose from its slumber on Thursday following some developments and the release of its year-end results, although it looks to have dropped off again by the close on Friday. I wonder whether there is a turnaround play here.
Published 50 days ago
You may know Tom Winnifrith as the man who exposes fraud on AIM and gets a stack of death threats and lawyers letters for his troubles. Just on Tuesday he has published a massive exclusive on Quindell, the biggest London stockmarket fraud for 30 years, and a con the regulators thanked him for exposing. That breaking news is HERE.
Published 54 days ago
Rather as in the general election we found ourselves on the losing side at the Petropavlsovsk (POG) EGM. Peter Hambro and all bar two of the old board are out and nominees of the dodgy Russian shareholders are in. How should one view this?
Published 54 days ago
We had heard that there were boardroom, er discussions, underway at Reach4 Entertaiment (R4E) and thus it is no great sutprise to see that David Stoller is to step down as Executive Chairman and as a director as of September 30.
Published 54 days ago
Bellzone Mining (BZM) was floated by Canaccord in 2010 (on April Fool's day as it happens). It raised £30 million at 35p to fund the development of an iron ore project in Guinea, West Africa, the baby of Aussie entrepreneur Nikolajs Zuks, valuing the company at £184 million. Seven years on the company is still in the feasibility stage, having spent $336 million of shareholders' money and, with the share count having more than tripled, the market cap is £33 million.
Published 61 days ago
Bathroom and household equipment and accessories group Norcros (NXR) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2017 and that "the board remains confident that the group should continue to make further progress for the year ending 31 March 2018".
Published 67 days ago
This has been an awfu sharel tip and so, as a shareholder myself, I almost welcome an end to my suffering. I am sure the bidder is looking to pick up assets on the cheap and won't pay anything like a full price but at least the shares are up by 2.125p to 13.25p mid.
Published 67 days ago
Value footwear retailer, Shoe Zone (SHOE) has announced results for its half year ended 1st April 2017 and that it "has traded broadly in line with management's expectations since the period end and the board continues to look to the future with confidence".
Published 70 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has announced its Preliminary Results for the year ended 31 December 2016. The company reported a loss of €2.76 million on sales of €0.80 million, compared to a loss of €3.03 million and €0.23 million respectively. in 2015. So far so bad. But...
Published 74 days ago
This has been a dog of a share tip from us but is there now a case for a small buy as a recovery play? Stanley Gibbons (SGI) has followed the recent sale of a major part of its Interiors division with an announcement of a £1.4 million sale of its interest in operator of the annual Masterpiece London art and antiques fair, Masterpiece London Ltd.
Published 76 days ago
I certainly don't condone bribery but I can understand why Ayman Asfari and Marwan Chedid, CEO and former COO of Petrofac (PFC) might be feeling a little hard done by, having been arrested by the Serious Fraud Office and seeing the company's value plunge by £1.5 billion, as an investigation is launched into its dealings with shadowy Monaco-based "agent" Unaoil.
Published 81 days ago
Chamberlin (CMH), a 105p offer price share tip from ourselves last month, has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2017 and that ongoing growth is "supported by major new contracts coming on stream". The shares are now 154p! Who's Da Daddy???
Published 82 days ago
Alliance Pharma (APH) has made an AGM update announcement, including that trading "is good and in line with the board's expectations" and that "cash flow in the business remains strong". This is a healthy reaffirmation of our BUY tip of last month which is now well in the money.
Published 82 days ago
Well all right, this is more like it. The first non-Tom article is #1, Infrastrata – cash crunch & sack-the-board General Meeting ahoy… so it's strategic review time!, by Steve Moore.
Published 83 days ago
I wrote about Mysquar (MYSQ) last week and promised to explain how conflicts of interest and accounting shenanigans make it uninvestable. In the AIM admission document of two years ago it is stated:
Published 84 days ago
November 72p offer price share tip, Sanderson Group (SND) has announced results for its half year ended 31st March 2017 and that it has "a good level of confidence that the group will continue to make further progress and deliver trading results in line with market expectations for the current year".
Published 89 days ago
I wrote recently about AIM listed BNN Technology (BNN), a flaky and wildly over promoted China tech play, but having had a look at Burmese tech play MySQUAR (MYSQ), BNN looks a solid blue chip.
Published 93 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has updated on the attempted boardroom coup – including on its process to appoint an independent Non-Executive Chairman, a further independent Non-Executive director and opposition to the requisitioning shareholder nominees.
Published 96 days ago
It is extremely rare for companies to resort to death spiral financing without serious damage to their share price (Gulf Keystone pulled it off a few years ago, but it really doesn't happen often). Mongolian oil explorer Petro Matad (MATD) is unlikely to be an exception to this rule.
Published 96 days ago
Andrews Sykes (ASY), a 380p offer price November share tip, has announced results for the 2016 calendar year and that it is "cautiously optimistic for further success in 2017"…
Published 98 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has announced that it has received notification that three shareholders will vote against the re-election of all five existing directors and attempt to insert four new chaps at the forthcoming EGM. The shareholders all got their holding via the debt for equity swap and so are well in the money and are Renova Asset Holding Limited, Sothic Capital European Opportunities Master Fund Limited and M&G Debt Opportunities Fund II Limited.
Published 109 days ago
Recent years have been ones of transition from open pit towards underground mining for Altyn (ALTN). However, production is now starting to increase again - and the anticipated marked increase from current levels looks far from discounted in the present valuation. As such, the shares are a buy
Published 110 days ago
Concepta (CPT) has been a slow burner but we are well ahead on this share tip with the shares now at 16.6p-17p.Last autumn that it was about to sell its MyLotus kits in China and since then it has appointed a country manager and huffed and puffed but there are no sign of those sales. But you won't need to wait long. There are fireworks coming soon.
Published 112 days ago
Reach4Entertainment (R4E) has announced results for the 2016 calendar year and that "we are enthusiastic about the growth prospects that our new initiatives will bring", although there is somewhat of a sting in the tail…
Published 112 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has announced first quarter of 2017 production results supporting a level of production towards the top end of the 2017 forecast of 420,000-460,000 ounces of gold…
Published 113 days ago
London main-market listed, gold miner in Russia Petropavlovsk (POG) has announced results for the 2016 calendar year, emphasising a return to profitability and a refinancing of bank debt - enabling it not to have to divest part of the value in its core organic growth development project, the POX Hub…
Published 115 days ago
Making money from shares is simple. Well it should be. Buy cheap. Hold. Hold. Hold. Hold, and finally sell when the shares have delivered you big gains. Where so many folks go wrong is getting impatient and not being prepared to hold, hold, hold. Let us tell you about Symphony Environmental (SYM) which we tipped at a 6.75p offer just over three years ago. It did nothing for ages....
Published 117 days ago
BNN Technology (BNN) published its Annual Report last week along with an update on its current cash position and the appointment of a new Non-Exec Chairman. The share price has rallied 6% but is still shy of the 80p at which broker Mirabaud recently raised £25 million - and, looking through the bluster, there are some serious issues that holders might care to consider.
Published 118 days ago
On 20th April 2017, Action Hotels (AHCG) updated on a disappointing 2016, as well as that "trading in Q1 2017 is solid". Hmmm…
Published 120 days ago
Specialty pharmaceutical company, Alliance Pharma (APH) is a previous successful share tip for us - recommended at 31p, with gains banked at 43p in 2015. However, there has since been positive development which looks inadequately reflected in a current sub 50p offer price and, noting also the continued presence of famed investors Nigel Wray and Slater Investments as major shareholders…
Published 120 days ago
Veltyco (VLTY) has announced a €2.55 million subscription for new shares to fund two acquisitions which it argues represent "an exciting opportunity… to grow its business by building on existing online betting brands, using its expertise in online marketing combined with award winning sportsbook technology"…
Published 123 days ago
Supplier of branded showers, taps, bathroom accessories, tiles and adhesives, Norcros (NXR) has updated that year ended 31st March 2017 adjusted operating profit "is expected to be in line with the board's expectations" and that "the board is confident that the group is well placed to make further progress"…
Published 124 days ago
Recent 105p offer price Nifty Fifty share tip, Chamberlin (CMH) has updated on trading – including that, following "a strengthened performance in the second half" of its year ended 31st March 2017, underlying profitability will be ahead of the prior year and "in line" with current market forecasts…
Published 124 days ago
In this video from the storming success that was the 2017 UK Investor Show, in the 'Dragon's Den' companies have a 60 second pitch to Gary Newman, Tom Winnifrith, and Steve Moore for three £1,000 investments. This fifth and final round features Concepta (CPT), Sanderson (SND), Kefi Minerals (KEFI), BlueJay Mining (JAY), and Berkely Energia (BKY). And make sure that you keep April 21 2018 free for next year's UK Investor Show.
Published 124 days ago
BNN Technology (BNN) has duly announced its prelims for the year to Dec 2016. First of all: hats off to broker Mirabaud for finding punters willing to throw a further £25 million at the company on top of £51 million stumped up last year.
Published 125 days ago
In this video from the storming success that was the 2017 UK Investor Show, in the 'Dragon's Den' companies have a 60 second pitch to the Pizza Hardman Darren Atwater, Tom Winnifrith and Steve Moore for three £1,000 investments. This fourth round features Big Sofa (BST), Ariana Resources (AAU), BMR Group (BMR), Versarien (VRS) and W Resources (WRES).
Published 126 days ago
In this video from the storming success that was the 2017 UK Investor Show, in the 'Dragon's Den' companies have a 60 second pitch to Gary Newman, Tom Winnifrith and Steve Moore for three £1,000 investments. This third round features Optibiotix (OPTI), Metal Tiger (MTR), Saffron Energy (SRON), Collagen Solutions (COS) and Wishbone Gold (WSBN).
Published 128 days ago
In this video from the storming success that was the 2017 UK Investor Show, in the 'Dragon's Den' companies have a 60 second pitch to Britain's Buffett Nigel Wray, Tom Winnifrith and Steve Moore for three £1,000 investments. Up first are Sula Gold (SULA), Symphony Environmental (SYM), Asiamet (ARS), Bluebird Merchant Ventures (BMV) and (sort of) Interquest (ITQ)...
Published 136 days ago
Updating previously on K3 Business Technology (KBT) in January, we noted a most disappointing profits warning. This is now reflected in announced results for the company's half-year ended 31st December 2016 – about which we have now spoken to management…
Published 137 days ago
There were two phone calls I dreaded receiving last week. One concerned my father. The news there is good. He is out of intensive care but, with another complication this morning, not out of the woods yet. The second concerned me and my most recent blood tests.
Published 140 days ago
Ahead of another round tomorrow, at UK Investor Show 2016 there were five 'Dragon's Den' sessions where a number of CEOs each gave a pitch and three Dragons each picked one stock in which FIML invested £1,000. How have the dragons fared?...
Published 154 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has updated on its pressure oxidation hub development, with construction activities having fully resumed following bank debt refinancing.
Published 155 days ago
Technology sectors-focused recruitment group, InterQuest (ITQ) has announced results from a "challenging" 2016 year of"transformation" following a change in executive management, though is "cautiously optimistic about 2017".
Published 159 days ago
Back in August I suggested that Mayair Group (MAYA), which purports to provide clean air solutions in China might not be so different from other AIM listed China plays.
Published 160 days ago
Symphony Environmental Technologies (SYM) has announced results for the 2016 calendar year and that "we expect to build on the positive momentum and are optimistic for a successful year ahead".
Published 161 days ago
Business recovery and property services group, Begbies Traynor (BEG) has updated on its third quarter (to end January), including that "we are encouraged to see some (insolvency) market stability".
Published 165 days ago
Poster child for the dogs on AIM heading for zero is Avanti Communications (AVN) which plumbed new lows this week with a dreadful H1 statement. For a supposedly maturing business to have interest expenses more than turnover is astounding. This is a product of its recent insane more-debt-for-debt swap.
Published 166 days ago
The unbelievably benign state of the market was underlined this week by its generous reaction to bad news from Cobham (COB). On good news shares go up big time. On bad news, these days, shares just go up.
Published 172 days ago
ShareSoc does some great work for private investors. Sadly its former chairman Roger "Ramper" Lawson of blinkx & Globo infamy - taken apart brilliantly by Paul Scott HERE - continues to behave in a way that is just plain unethical. He was at it again last night and also a week or so ago.
Published 181 days ago
This will not make me popular. If you want to see me going for someone who really deserves it I stick the boot into the war criminal and Brexit denier Tony Blair in a podcast on Tom Winnifrith.com HERE. As to Colin Bird of Xtract Resources (XTR) which we own thanks to the blinding stupidity of Gary Newman & Steve Moore, the lynch mob is out after last week's hugely discounted placing. I am not defending my friend Colin entirely, nor am I tipping the shares, but I think some folks are not giving him credit for some of what he has done to rescue a company that was bust and are not putting his actions in context as I explain in full.
Published 181 days ago
The legendary bear Robert W Wilson once mused about his modus operandi: "I'm not interested in climbing into a tree and wrestling the jaguar out of the tree. I am interested in someone shooting the jaguar out of the tree and then I will go and cut the thing apart"
Published 181 days ago
Steve Moore touched on Brave Bison's (BBSN) disappointing profit warning yesterday (HERE) but I feel he could have said more as the timing of yesterday's announcement is shoddy and needs further investigation as does some of the other recent announcements.
Published 181 days ago
I will produce a detailed photo article on my manual labours today on the fields at the Greek Hovel later today but I am rapidly concluding that I am getting a bit old for this manual labour malarky. No doubt six months on a building site over the summer will knock me into shape. In terms of the markets Steve Moore is a nice guy. He needs to learn to be a total bastard like me. I comment on Brave Bison (BBSN) where young Steve was just far too nice - someone at Brave should be doing a per walk. In a similar vein I comment on Milestone Group (MSG). Then it is onto the much ramped Frontera Resources (FRR), ditto China Africa (CAF) and then onto Inmarsat (ISAT) and Avanti Communications (AVN). Oh and I have chatted to Colin Bird of Xtract Resources (XTR).
Published 183 days ago
Our 35p offer price share tip of Veltyco (VLTY) last month is looking good after another cracking trading update. There is more to come.…
Published 185 days ago
I think we are in a crazy market for resource juniors and I am expressly NOT recommending you buy any of the shares below. But such is the madness that prevails, all sorts of mining and oil junors are seeing their shares fly. Worthless assets, crap management, no cash. Who cares? Just say you are looking at Lithium and off we go. So this is an experiment. Steve Moore will track the 12 stocks below, largely suggested by you and report back after 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and on December 31 comparing this portfolio with the FTSE AIM Index and the FTSE 100. Just for fun, the dirty dozen are:
Published 188 days ago
I resisted the temptation to short Premier Oil (PMO) a year ago, along with Afren, Gulf Keystone and Petroceltic as it was never in the same basket case league as that lot. I even hitched a brief ride North as it became clear that a wipe out was not going to happen. (In case I come across as arrogant or smug I should declare that I was short Hurricane Energy at the time which more than did for the Premier rise)
Published 190 days ago
There were many who worried and sold. Oh ye of little faith, at long last Fox Marble (FOX) is starting to deliver real sales. We had news last week of a $300,000 order in the UK and Australia now there is a really big deal that has been announced.
Published 193 days ago
I explained last week why I thought that shares in Avocet Mining (AVM) were worthless. That was without the knowledge that its Inata gold mine only has a shelf life of three years at the current gold price. The company stated as much on Thursday with the painful admission that cashflow from this period is "unlikely to result in full repayment of creditors"
Published 195 days ago
And now I turn my eyes upon Beowulf Mining (BEM) whose shares ran up from 6p to 15p in January on hopes of an imminent greenlight from the local County Administrative Board (CAB) for permission to mine iron in its Kallak North project in Sweden.
Published 196 days ago
Just a quick note following a "New Orders and Specifications" announcement from Fox Marble(FOX). Yes this is an upbeat statement. It had to happen one day!
Published 198 days ago
Symphony Environmental (SYM) has updated that 2016 performance was ahead of expectations and announced the launch and UK listing in Wilko stores of d2p antimicrobial household gloves…
Published 198 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has updated on 2016 production in-line with its revised guidance (just) – and that it expects better in a 2017 year which should also see some transformative development. Good news, it is about time too.
Published 200 days ago
I wrote a while back about Avocet (AVM), suggesting that the share price fluctuations, which were linked to the fortunes of 1392 ounces of gold seized by workers at its Inata mine in Burkina Faso, ignored the fact that the company was essentially insolvent.
Published 202 days ago
In the current market environment, it is rare to find an 'ahead of expectations', growing company on a low prospective near-term rating. However, that is the case with Veltyco Group (VLTY)
Published 205 days ago
Reach4Entertainment (R4E) has updated that it "expects to produce a trading performance slightly ahead of market expectations for the 12 months to 31 December 2016 at the EBITDA and profit before tax levels", confirmed the appointments of two non-executive directors and added Finance Director, Linzi Allen, to the board.
Published 207 days ago
I predicted in November that Mitie (MTO) would soon be issuing its third profit warning and that new boss Phil Bentley had every incentive to clear the decks and start afresh, demystifying the opaque balance sheet bequeathed to him by his prickly and defenestrated predecessor Ruby McGregor-Smith.
Published 208 days ago
Well, this is awkward.. Prime Minister Theresa May will be visiting newly minted US President Donald Trump next week and hopes to initiate some sort of trade deal, a mere 48 hours after Trump told the world of his plans: "From this day forward, it's going to be only America first. America first." But I am sure that he'll make an exception for us. TW Note - Does Darren actually bother to check what Trump says on Trade deals? More fake news from remoaning liberal losers...
Published 210 days ago
Provider of IT consultants, FDM Group (FDM) has updated that a strong trading performance and favourable exchange rate movements see it now anticipating "full-year results ahead of its expectations" – and the shares have responded more than 9% higher to a current 624p 'bid' price. So not a bad tip from us...
Published 213 days ago
Purecircle (PURE), the purveyor of stevia products (plant based sugar substitutes) warned on January 5th that first half results for the six months to 31 Dec 2016 were likely to crash into a loss from last years $5 million profit.
Published 215 days ago
UK value footwear retailer, Shoe Zone (SHOE) has announced results for its year ended 1st October 2016, that it has made a "solid start" to its current year and that "the board remains positive for the outlook of the group".
Published 216 days ago
Concepta (CPT) has announced that it has secured ISO13485 accreditation which is a key step in attaining its CE marking for its 'myLotus' product for unexplained infertility.
Published 218 days ago
Oakley is about to be petrified as the working classes are arriving. He fears them greatly. He fears hoovers even more. But ahead of that I record quickly. Today I cover Darren's bogus religion of global warming and Ariana (AAU) - the market has this wrong - Cobham (COB) - what ia kitchen sink - my dream St Valentine's Day massacre involving three listed companies which could all go bust on February 14. Please God! I also look at PCG Entertainment (PCGE) and its news today. Hats off to my friend comrade Richard Poulden. I also chide young Steve for not giving credit where credit is due to Majestic Wine (MJW) and have a few words about Aidan Earley. I thank him publicly on one matter although a lawyers letter has been received.
Published 222 days ago
I have often grumbled about the inadequacies of the AIM NOMAD system which has always seemed to me to be an inherent conflict of interest. That is to say that NOMADs are expected to ensure that their client companies adhere to the AIM rules and given that they are paid by these companies, the temptation to ignore transgressions is irresistible, particularly given the reputation for inaction by the regulatory authorities.
Published 224 days ago
This is one of our worst share tips and also one of my (TW) worst investments of recent years. Collectibles group Stanley Gibbons (SGI) has announced further dire results - this time for the six months ended 30th September 2016 - though "is optimistic that the trading of the group is now beginning to reflect the giant strides made through the restructuring plan in a year of substantial transition" (including a completely new board of directors).
Published 227 days ago
Since Christmas Even the various authors on the ShareProphets website have been serving up at least 1 share tip for 2017 every single day. There are blue chips, small caps, buys and sells. And of course we also have our readers share tip prize contest for 2017 where the deadline to enter is midnight and where you can enter HERE. But what did our writers tip. As we prepare for the stockmarket to reopen on Tuesday here is a full recap:
Published 227 days ago
Once again we will have a competition and once again the prize is a meal with myself. If you dislike me you can fob that meal off on someone else. All you need to do before midnight on January 2nd is to post in the comments section below your stock to buy and your stock to sell. Steve Moore will monitor and report back monthly on how the competition fares. He will also be announcing the 2016 winner on 3rd January. Good luck all and especially, should they enter, to our favourite semi naked twins Hayley & Kate Whittaker pictured below.
Published 227 days ago
Following positive results at the start of December, shares in Character Group (CCT) went on to exceed 530p. However, following news of director share sales they slid to a 495p offer price at which point in December we tipped them to our readers on the Nifty Fifty website we run with Lucian Miers. The shares are now 510p and still a buy.
Published 233 days ago
Recent half-year results from Tungsten Corporation (TUNG) sought to emphasise "statutory loss after tax £4.5 million, a £15.5 million improvement over H1-FY16". However, not included in this comparison is that the prior period loss included £6.8 million of non-cash impairment and £2.3 million of finance cost foreign exchange losses against, respectively, none and a £5.2 million gain this time around. Capitalised, at a current 53.75p bid price, at approaching £68 million and it looking like there is further prodigious cash burn ahoy, the shares are a sell…
Published 233 days ago
Reach (R4E) flagged up in its FY numbers in May that it would probably breach banking covenants. It argued this was a technical matter of no concern but the shares slumped. We urged you to buy then.
Published 233 days ago
Following another profit warning recently, InterQuest (ITQ) has been a disastrous tip for 2016 from myself (though, thankfully, outweighed by my other one, Avesco Group, delivering a more than 180% return). But the current 36p offer price for the shares looks to me much too harsh an appraisal…
Published 235 days ago
On the face of it, Harvest Minerals (HMI), whose shares have quadrupled since they switched horses from the ASX to the AIM Casino a year ago, seem like a cracking good investment.
Published 235 days ago
With prodigious cash burn the focus of my other sell tip of the year, the focus on this one is the balance sheet in conjunction with current trading…
Published 236 days ago
A recent share tip on the Nifty Fifty website at a 250p offer price, shares in developer, formulator and supplier of personal care and beauty products, Swallowfield (SWL) are already ahead to a current 270p offer price. However, this is still down from 290p reached in October - and I believe there could be much more to come and so it is my first tip of the year.
Published 239 days ago
Recent share tip of ours Zytronic (ZYT) has announced results for its year ended 30th September 2016 and that its new "year has started well with orders, revenue and current trading ahead of the same period last year".
Published 243 days ago
Business recovery and property services group Begbies Traynor (BEG) has announced results for its half-year ended 31st October 2016 and that "for the year as a whole, we anticipate growth in earnings, in line with expectations".
Published 243 days ago
Shares in AIM-listed Vislink (VLK) have had a roller-coaster couple of years. They started 2015 at around 41p, raced ahead to 60p by mid-year (2015) but now languish at just 12.625p as at last week's close. Having been tipped by Steve Moore in the ShareProphets 2015 Christmas tipfest as well as making an appearance on the Nifty Fifty courtesy of Steve and Tom Winnifrith did it all go wrong for the duo? Er, no. As the old saying goes, "when the facts change"….
Published 244 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has announced results of its adverse weather-induced (are you reading Al Gore?) impact assessment at Andreevskaya East – with both negative and positive outcomes.
Published 244 days ago
Some folks are winding down for Christmas already. Idle wotsits! Steve Moore and I are, however very much hard at work and we will have not one but TWO fantastic share tips coming out TODAY, Friday 16th December, at 2 PM. Christmas shopping can wait. These share tips are too hot. They can't!
Published 245 days ago
In this podcast I revisit the vexed subject of Xtract Resources (XTR) which begs the question of when exactly I should sack Gary Newman and Steve Moore. Having seen a Christmas Carol last night I am inspired by my hero Scrooge, that is to say before he got all soppy, Guardian reading and pathetic in his old age. I also comment on Management Consulting (MMC) before returning at length to Cloudtag (CTAG). This time I play the ghost of Christmases yet to come with a warning for hapless Nomad Cairn. I also comment on Sula (SULA) with whom I met up yesterday.
Published 246 days ago
Another day, another disappointing update from Balkans region quarrier Fox Marble (FOX) – with "the conversion of orders into delivered sales has taken longer than anticipated… leaving our estimated sales number for full year 2016 lower than expected". We've now spoken to CEO Chris Gilbert.
Published 248 days ago
The Market reaction to last Tuesday's news that the FCA was proposing stricter rules for CFD products was predictably savage. What surprised me was that IG Group (IGG) led the way with a 40% fall whereas Plus 500 (PLUS) fell "only" 27%. Since then IG has continued to weaken ( 470p at the time of writing) whereas Plus has rallied a little (373p ditto).
Published 248 days ago
Steve Moore has passed on the task of judging this contest since we had 96 entries including my own. As you can see HERE there were many splended suggestions as to what Cloudtag should rebrand its product as. But there can only be one winner of a golden ticket to the UK Investor Show incorporating a night at the Saracens cabaret.
Published 249 days ago
AIM fraud Cloudtag (CTAG) has today stated that it is going to rebrand its product. We are always keen to help and so invite you all to suggest possible names. My own suggestion is "FitFraud". Can you do better? Well here is a reason worth £90 to try your best.
Published 255 days ago
A latest "Trading update" announcement from recruitment group InterQuest (ITQ) saw the shares fall to to circa 30p although with Jim Mellon upping his stake they are now 35p. We have had a long chat with the company's Chairman Gary Ashworth.
Published 257 days ago
Recent share tip, Sanderson Group (SND) has announced results for its year ended 30th September 2016 and, chatting to management, they remain conscious of macroeconomic risk but doesn't currently detect any loss of confidence in the company's areas of focus and are confident of making further progress.
Published 258 days ago
I have never been a fan of Purecircle (PURE), particularly in 2012/13 when its shares rose six-fold from £1 to £6 on hugely overblown dreams of the potential of its plant based sweetener product to replace sugar and cure America of its obesity problem.
Published 259 days ago
An easing of debt risk for Petropavlovsk (POG) has moved a significant step closer – with it announced that the company has received approvals for the refinancing of its entire bank debt of $529.8 million from its lending banks, Sberbank and VTB.
Published 261 days ago
As a climate change "denier" I have written elsewhere about how global temperatures are plunging not, as the BBC might lead you to believe, heading higher. You can see a recent article on that matter HERE. And thus Petropavlovsk (POG) serves up news from Russia which does not surprise me, but which might shock your average Guardian reader.
Published 263 days ago
Supplier of showers, taps, bathroom accessories, tiles and adhesives with operations primarily in the UK and South Africa, Norcros (NXR) has announced results for its half year ended 30th September 2016 and that "with our strong brands, leading market positions and continued self-help initiatives focused on market share gain the group is well positioned to make further progress".
Published 265 days ago
There are few shrewder analysts of the Business Services sector than Matthew Earl, the man who called the demise of Connaught way before the herd, and more recently questioned the value of Mitie (MTO), suggesting a profits warning was on the way.
Published 265 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has updated that "trading in the first four months of the new financial year is ahead of last year" – this in advance of a key selling period of the forthcoming weeks to the end of December.
Published 268 days ago
Gold miner Avocet Mining (AVM) has always been a bit of a rollercoaster of an investment since its 1 for 10 share consolidation in June, the shares have doubled, halved and then doubled again as punters have reacted skittishly to news from darkest Africa.
Published 272 days ago
I do not know about you but I am starting to feel a bit Trumped out. And I actually wanted him to beat crooked Hillary. But the papers and TV screens are just so full of the man, what he is doing and what it means for us all. Is the Donald good for shares or bad? What about gold? Or bonds? Or house prices? Or the chances of England winning the World Cup? The truth is that no-one really knows any of the answers... except that England won't win the World Cup.
Published 276 days ago
Having seen Cloudtag (CTAG) demonstrate one of the golden rules of share trading here is another: run for the hills when a company starts messing with its creditors. Step forward Avanti Communications (AVN).
Published 277 days ago
Any lingering doubts that may have been harboured by bears of Cloudtag (CTAG) were dispelled last week by its tacit admission that it had misled the market earlier in the year when it boated of a firm $5.2 million sale to be completed this year, which has now turned out to be a phantom as predicted.
Published 287 days ago
I see that Avocet Mining (AVM) which I warned in May and August this year imploded the other day as it admitted that insolvency could be looming. If, like Xcite (XEL), about which I wrote the other day, it does enter administration, the shares are still a compelling sell. This, I believe is by far the most likely outcome and I stay short. The company's words in the recent statement are explicit:
Published 288 days ago
I was starting to warm to Colin Bird at Xtract Resources (XTR) with his decisive action and straight-talking, although today's hugely disappointing funding RNS which needs about five reads and three espressos to understand leaves me feeling cold, although I'm guessing Beaufort Securities and Beaumont Cornish should shoulder some of the blame.
Published 290 days ago
Updating last month on Petropavlovsk (POG), we noted debt risk but reassurance that "key terms have been agreed in principle for the rebalancing of the group's debt maturities with its production profile". The company has now further updated – including that it"expects to be in a position to confirm details of the refinancing shortly".
Published 290 days ago
As a rule, as I have pointed out before, the stocks most talked about on bulletin boards make appalling investments. Gulf Keystone (GKP) is a good example of this and Tern (TERN) the pretender to the Gulf throne is also a case in point.
Published 295 days ago
Reach4Entertainment (R4E) has announced a share placing raising £2 million pre expenses at 1.5p. I am utterly livid for reasons that I shall explain.
Published 297 days ago
Unlike Cloudtag (CTAG) which has to conjure up real sales from somewhere or face share price obliteration by Chriistmas, Highlands Natural Resources (HNR) which is also run by charlatans has an easy life.
Published 298 days ago
It wasa mixed week for the leading charlatan stocks on AIM. Shares in Cloudtag (CTAG) have come off the boil on an absence of news but there is worse to come for the bulls. These shares are set to collapse.
Published 298 days ago
Geospatial and cloud services company 1Spatial (SPA) has announced self-admitted "disappointing"results for its half-year to 31stJuly 2016, though that "management believes the group is still on track to meet full year expectations which is an overall increase on the prior year revenues and adjusted EBITDA".
Published 298 days ago
There are two statements out today from Xtract Resources (XTR) and neither can be viewed in any way as good news. We own these shares thanks to Dragons Den choices by Steve Moore & Gary Newman at UK Investor 2016, and today's admissions prompt me to start filling in P45s for both those writers.
Published 298 days ago
Orderly business succession is what we like as investors. Folks get old, folks move on and want fresh challenges but well run companies plan for this and do not make a drama out of what does not need to be a crisis.
Published 300 days ago
Steve Moore and I have not tipped a stock on our Nifty Fifty Website for a good while. We are nervous of the stockmarket as whole and as a result we have been advising readers to liquidate existing share tips, mostly banking big gains as they do. But we now have a stock we want to tip irrespective of the wider market as its shares are just cheap. That share tip goes out Friday 21st October at 2PM - tomorrow!
Published 301 days ago
For reasons that seem entirely related to illiquidity on AIM and nothing to do with fundamentals, shares in Reach4Entertainment (R4E) have ratted back to 1.25-1.4p. It is crackers.
Published 302 days ago
At UK Investor Show there were five 'Dragon's Den' sessions where five CEOs each gave a five minute pitch and three Dragons each picked one stock in which FIML invested £1,000 via our most excellent broker J Herbert Esq at European Wealth. And so £15,000 was invested, how has it fared?
Published 303 days ago
Get the new ebook by ShareProphets editor, Steve Moore Six of the Best (Half a dozen AIM shares to buy for Autumn 2016) sent direct to you. Order today for delivery this week.
Published 303 days ago
As I noted in bearcast yesterday I remember my old pal Mark Watson Mitchell tipping ASOS (ASC) at 7p. The shares hit a high of c£70 so that was a 1000 bagger for anyone who got their timing spot on and held. I doubt anyone did. But could there be another ASOS lurking out there on the London Stockmarket and if so what is it?
Published 303 days ago
Shares in Interquest (ITQ) slipped to 32p last week although they are now 33p-34p. I swapped emails with a rather glum chairman Gary Ashworth. Of course Gary is glum, as the largest shareholder his net wealth has been materially dented.
Published 305 days ago
I have had rather a soft spot for the management of Xcite Energy (XEL) ever since it responded to a rise in its share price by effectively warning over exuberant retail punters that its shares were close to worthless.
Published 310 days ago
Concepta (CPT) has announced that it has issued 464,674 shares following the exercise of warrants - something we warned you about last week. That brings in £34,851 which is frankly neither here not there. Around 10% of that cash came from the exercise of warrants by FIML and my pension fund. Neither are selling at anything like this price although the shares are well up on a 14p offer share tip.
Published 310 days ago
Bulletin Board Morons never get it wrong. That is why despite being multi-millionaires they spend their days imparting wisdom to others on the LSE Asylum. We however are mortal. Here is a share tip Steve and I got wrong. It happens.
Published 314 days ago
When Cloudtag (CTAG) blows up, which it clearly will, it will be easy to blame the insiders: the original founder Andrew Regan, the current CEO Amit Ben Haim and his associates, Golden Bridge Services Ltd and Preciousbluedot, owners both of large amounts of well -in-the-money warrants. That is what invariably happens. But it would be wrong.
Published 315 days ago
Kosovo and the Balkans region-focused marble company, Fox Marble (FOX) has announced participation in a "landmark venture formed with the Kosovo Government" aiming at "a world class new stone industry for Kosovo" and "a much wider marketing, sales and distribution platform" for Fox…
Published 318 days ago
Avesco (AVS) has announced that it had sold its broadcast hire subsidiary, Presteigne Limited to the unit's CEO, Mike Ransome and a private equity backer. This is good news.
Published 320 days ago
Half-year results from Petropavlovsk (POG) emphasise a return to profitability, though also reiterate that for the full year "expectations to be at the lower end of our original guidance of c.460,000-500,000oz" and net debt of $598 million.
Published 320 days ago
Tungsten Corporation (TUNG) shares have had a good run since July, rising over 50% to hit 70p this week. At today's 67p the market cap is £86 million. That is way too high for a company forecast to lose £12-14 million on sales of £30 million in the year to April 2017.
Published 322 days ago
Symphony Environmental Technologies (SYM) has announced results for the first half of 2016 and that "we look forward to the future with increased confidence".
Published 322 days ago
Universe Group (UNG) has announced results for the first half of 2016 showing increased earnings, but noting full-year performance "will be slightly below management expectations".
Published 324 days ago
Concepta (CPT) has announced that it has signed a deal with a Chinese company, Huanzhong Biotech Limited ( HZ) to to assemble and package Concepta's 'My Lotus' fertility product. My Lotus already has regulatory clearance and so this paves the way for a launch very soon indeed.
Published 326 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has announced that Adalsteinn Valdimarsson, who joined as a NED on 11 July, is to become CEO. Chief Executive Officer, David Bolton will step up to assume the role of Executive Chairman and Lars-Olaf Norell will return to the position of Non-executive Director, as previously announced. This is orderly. It shows K3 is well run. Perhaps that is why we are 133% ahead on this share tip.
Published 327 days ago
On Thursday, as expected, the bond holders in Gulf Keystone (GKP) agreed to the restructuring which will give them 85.5% of the company. All that remains is for the scheme to be sanctioned in court next Friday, a formality. Within five working days of that date just shy of 20 billion shares will be dispatched to noteholders.
Published 328 days ago
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has updated on "satisfactory" trading in the first quarter of its current financial year and emphasised that "we continue to be confident of the prospects for the group". And that makes the shares look cheap.
Published 329 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has announced results for the first half of 2016 – including admitted "disappointing" revenue of €0.262 million, but that the "board is positive about the outlook for the company for the remainder of this year and into 2017".
Published 329 days ago
Thanks to Steve Moore and Gary Newman we own shares in Xtract Resources (XTR). Both deserve P45s for that. I discuss this disaster as well as another hole in the ground in Bongo Bongo land which stinks - Armadale Capital (ACP). Then it is onto Newmark Security (NMT) - Graham Neary hang your head in shame for this exercise in nepotistic value destruction - before I look at Gulf Keystone (GKP) and the administration waiting to happen that is Avanti Communications (AVN)
Published 330 days ago
Berkeley Energia (BKY) has announced it has signed a Letter of Intent relating to the sale of the first million pounds of production from its Salamanca uranium project – with an average contemplated price of above $41 per pound comparing with the current spot price of around $25 per pound. Way to go!. No wonder we are c150% up on this share tip!
Published 331 days ago
Safestyle UK (SFE) has announced results for the first half of 2016 and that it"remains confident of making further progress and delivering a full year outturn in line with management expectations".
Published 333 days ago
A few years ago when listed high street retailers were going down like ninepins they would invariably have the decency to inform shareholders that their equity was worthless shortly before implosion. "Little or no value" was the usual phrase.
Published 335 days ago
Reach4Entertainment (R4E) has announced results for the first half of 2016, noting "we are pleased to report a strong first six months", though that "the second half is expected to be more challenging".
Published 336 days ago
Action Hotels (AHCG) has announced results for the first half of 2016 and, noting "increasing demand for quality, internationally branded economy and mid-market hotels" in its Middle East and Australia areas of operation, "remains optimistic about the future as the group continues to deliver the pipeline".
Published 337 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has announced results for its year ended 30thJune 2016 and we've had a chat with management. The shares are ahead on the news to 343-352p. Not bad given we tipped this at a 149p offer
Published 341 days ago
As I have pointed out before with Quindell (QPP) there seems to be a strong correlation with the underlying quality of a company and the unblinking loyalty of its hardcore shareholder base. In the case of Quindell this spilled over into unbelievable hatred and invective at anyone who had the temerity to question the company's obviously questionable practices.
Published 342 days ago
Specialist recruitment group InterQuest (ITQ) has announced disappointing results for the first half of 2016, but we've had a reassuring catch-up with early this year commenced CEO here, Chris Eldridge…
Published 345 days ago
We already know that Berkeley Energia's (BKY) Salamanca uranium resource in Spain is commercial so does it really matter if it serves up more good drill grades?
Published 349 days ago
A strangely timed "Trading Update" announcement is usually a cause for concern – but not a 12:46pm effort Thursday from media equipment and services group Avesco (AVS), though still why release at this time?
Published 350 days ago
Having previously announced that it was "engaged in discussions" following a 24p per share possible offer, Red24 (REDT) has now further updated as an initial Takeover Panel deadline came into play. the shares are now 24p mid which is not bad as we tipped it just about six weeks ago at a 19.75p offer.
Published 355 days ago
It was announced on 12 July that 1Spatial (SPA) CEO Marcus Hanke had sold 5 million shares at 4.45p - netting him roughly £220,000. A director share sale never goes down well and the shares have flatlined since - they are now 4.25p-4.75p.
Published 356 days ago
The indiscriminate buying in the market recently has been something to behold and suggests we could soon be due a reality check. The mad monetary policy of central banks everywhere has for some time been forcing institutions into hunting down yield wherever they can find it and this has caused the equity markets and the junk bond markets to soar.
Published 358 days ago
With eleven completed hotels with 2,032 rooms across the Middle East and Australia, Action Hotels (AHCG) has updated on performance for the first half of the year – noting it "was positive… with both the group's Middle East and Australian hotels contributing strong average occupancies".
Published 360 days ago
Such is the current febrile state of the markets that even China scams are being bid up with gusto. Take Mayair (MAYA), which purports to sell clean air filters in China and floated on AIM in May last year at 130p. Its shares, having gone down in a straight line to 40p (as insider selling outweighed the constant barrage of good news that these companies always come out with) have doubled to 84p in the last month as summer madness takes hold. The company itself was forced yesterday to say there is no reason for the rise. Indeed.
Published 361 days ago
The Star Wars imagery should tell you that this is Tom writing not Steve. The series of movies will be my specialist subject if I ever go on Mastermind. Enough geekery, you want to know about marble not that I am losing my marbles.Another day and another operational update from Fox Marble (FOX) sees, on balance, more good news than bad. We will get full interims for the half calendar year by the end of September but the trading update is full. Let's start with the bad.
Published 362 days ago
We tipped Berkeley Energia (BKY) at a 20p offer - the shares are now 48p-49p so I hope there are no complaints out there on this tip. What next? The most recent news of note was the Quarterlies. The actually numbers are academic but the only paragraph that matters states:
Published 366 days ago
From Gary Newman, Nigel Somerville, Steve Moore and myself there are 14 new investment ideas in the July UK Investor Magazine which is out now. I discuss the spirit of insurgency which caused Brexit and which is powering Donald Trump to the White House and its long term implications as well as the Global Recession which will hit the UK soon and it is nothing to do with Brexit! That and much more is free to read now just click on the link below.
Published 367 days ago
They don't call this the silly season for nothing. Shortly after Inmarsat (ISAT) announced on August 1st that it was not interested in Avanti (AVN), a story appeared in the FT saying that it had in fact been willing to pay "at least" 140p per share (subject to due diligence) right up until the end of July, around five times the price at the time.
Published 368 days ago
While we are working our way through the silly season when all sorts of rubbish zooms ahead, I see that Sound Energy (SOU) is nudging an insane market cap of £300 million while I write. It could well soon take the place of the soon to be departed Gulf Keystone as the oil stock of choice for the retail loonies.
Published 370 days ago
Great news - may father is back home from hospital so I head back up to Warwickshire in a couple of days. Thereafter between him and the Mrs entering the final month it will be less of me, Steve Moore is in charge. Bash him if anything goes wrong. In today's podcast I look at City of London (CIN), IGAS (IGAS), XCite Energy (XEL), Wishbone Gold (WSBN), Nyota (NYO) and West African Minerals (WAFM).
Published 375 days ago
Investment Case: The AIM admission of Concepta (CPT) a couple of weeks ago was through a reverse takeover of shellmeister (Adam Reynolds)-saved Frontier Resources International (FRI). We backed Reynolds when he became involved in Frontier, but despite his track-record, then was clearly somewhat speculative as we awaited a deal to be delivered. Now it has and it looks like Reynolds has delivered another promising one…
Published 376 days ago
Having tipped shares in red24 (REDT) two weeks ago, noting that the valuation, at a 19.75p offer price, looked undemanding for a company with a positive outlook and strong balance sheet a competitor business would seem to agree…
Published 377 days ago
Hello Share Twiddlers. As it's the weekend, I thought it might be an idea to feature an aspect of share-shifting which is sometimes overlooked by the gloomy forecasters we have among our midst. You see, our great game is not so much driven by the nuts and bolts of a company's performance, as by pop psychology which drives us all, often in an illogical fashion.
Published 384 days ago
When I last wrote about Gulf Keystone (GKP) I said it would be my final word on the subject but that was before Friday's news of a $300 million bid from the Norwegian Oil company DNO, the details of which are on its website.
Published 390 days ago
Ah, Worthington tops the leaderboard again.It's a brings back those halcyon days of yesteryear: Nick Clegg was deputy prime minister in a coalition; Boris Johnson was mayor of London and stuck on ziplines rather than being told to zip it; Brexit was a funny old idea that no one would be crazy enough to begin and Worthington was producing videos like this.
Published 391 days ago
Last year Purecircle (PURE) earned $4 million. Since then it has lost its finance director, its chief operating officer, its broker and its auditor. There has also been no shortage of insider selling. Its market capitalization? £555 million. Welcome to the whacky world of Purecircle, purveyors of stevia, a plant-based sugar substitute.
Published 392 days ago
Brexit vote fallout saw shares in retailer and manufacturer of PVCu replacement windows and doors, Safestyle UK (SFE) decline from more than 260p towards 200p, before recovering towards 240p. The recovery has now been further aided by a half year trading update.
Published 392 days ago
Most gold shares have soared over the past few months. Petropavlovsk (POG) shares, which we own, have not. At C7p we are ahead of our tip but not by much. It is disappointing and we apologise. But we have not lost faith. There are reasons for the lacklustre showing which came through in a first half trading statement and in a long chat with CEO Pavel Maslovskiy and chairman Peter Hambro.
Published 394 days ago
I had to buy a copy of the Guardian for Dad today and carry it home through the streets from the newsagent. How I am shamed in front of my neighbours. Meanwhile dad is reading books I own by Peter Hitchens, Niall Ferguson and Melanie Phillips and is loving them, as his inner reactionary is exposed. On the markets I look at Servision (SEV), Xtract Energy (XTR) - Steve Moore and Gary Newman you are FIRED! - Gulf Keystone (GKP), Taihua (FRAUD), Oxford Pharma (OXP), Judges Scientific (JDG) and another bad day for disgraced Roger "Ramper" Lawson of ShareSoc, Kennedy Ventures (KENV) and finally the poltroons stock of choice for today, Nyota (NYO).
Published 396 days ago
We tipped Berkeley Energia (BKY) at a 20p offer - the shares are now 39p-41p after the publication of a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) confirming that its Salamanca project in Spain will be one of the world's lowest cost producers capable of generating strong after tax cash flow, even during the current low point in the uranium price cycle.
Published 398 days ago
Drat. There is that phrase again. Results for the year to June 30th 2016 are expected to be "broadly" in line. That is stockmarket speak for "a near miss". No wonder the shares fell a tad on the announcement to 310-333p. We are well ahead of our 148p offer share tip but down on a few months ago.
Published 399 days ago
Insolvency, restructuring and property services group Begbies Traynor (BEG) has announced results for its year ended 30th April 2016 and that, although cautious, "the recent acquisition of the Pugh auction business, together with the Taylors valuation business, gives the opportunity for growth in earnings in the new financial year".
Published 404 days ago
Oy vey. It's been a week since Tom has walked away from editing the site, and yet five out of the top-10 stories are Tom's Bearcasts. And he didn't even record them every day.
Published 407 days ago
Steve Moore has already ably covered the Newmark Security (NWT) profit warning this morning, which see the shares marked down to 1.75p and makes my Buy rating as published here in May look rather foolish. Indulge me and I'll see if I can offer some insights as to what investors ought to think about.
Published 410 days ago
Post the Brexit vote and the profits warning from Interquest (0ITQ) shares in FDM (FDM) stood at 550p. They are now 450p. I have a private email from a top City analyst which explains the fall but also why the shares are cheap and a buy. It reads:
Published 416 days ago
Tom Winnifrith and I have covered Highlands Natural Resources (HNR) in some detail as the list of disgraceful shenanigans gets longer by the day - the latest revelations at the weekend were a killer and anyone holding after reading THIS is now demonstrably insane.
Published 418 days ago
Recruiter Prime People (PRP) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2016 and that"current activity is resilient across the group". The results show a pre-tax profit of £2.15 million on net fee income more than 20% higher than in the prior year, at £12.28 million, generating earnings per share of 13.84p, up from 9.28p. The dividend per share was maintained at 8.84p.
Published 420 days ago
Liz Hurley has released a charming new portrait below as she has explained why she is voting for Brexit. Your current and next editors (Tom Winnifrith & Steve Moore) stand firm with Ms Hurley and urge you to ignore all the lies from Dodgy Dave Cameron and have faith in your own country, the word's fifth largest economy, and in your countrymen and countrywomen. Please vote to leave the EU today.
Published 424 days ago
Supplier of branded showers, taps, bathroom accessories, tiles and adhesives, Norcros (NXR) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2016 and that "with our leading market positions, portfolio of strong brands, continued new product investment and self-help initiatives focused on market share gain, the board remains confident that the group should continue to make further progress for the year ending 31 March 2017".
Published 427 days ago
Value footwear retailer with 518 stores across the UK and Ireland, Shoe Zone (SHOE) has announced results for its half year ended 2nd April 2016 and that "the group has traded in line with management's expectations since the period end and the board continues to look to the future with confidence". Its another solid share tip from us but there is more to come.
Published 431 days ago
Many years ago, in order to close a short position in Leeds United after it had gone bust, I bought stock for a nominal sum off Leeds City Council, and remember thinking it a little strange that it had invested tax payers hard earned cash in such a dodgy enterprise.
Published 433 days ago
Avesco Group (AVS) has announced results for its half year ended 31st March 2016 and that "with net debt now at historically low levels and the Rio 2016 Olympic Games to come over the summer, the outlook for the group remains very positive".
Published 433 days ago
Distil (DIS), the owner of premium drinks brands including Blackwoods Gin and Vodka, RedLeg Spiced Rum, Blavod Black Vodka, Diva Vodka and Jago's Vanilla Cream Liqueur, has announced results for its year ended 31stMarch 2016 and that "we look forward to further growing revenues and expanding the reach of our brands over the coming year".
Published 438 days ago
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has announced an initial £2 million, and up to £4.625 million, acquisition of Pugh & Co, the largest firm of commercial property auctioneers operating outside of London, with regular auctions held in Leeds and Manchester.
Published 439 days ago
Having previously warned, calendar year 2015 results from Fox Marble (FOX) are unsurprisingly "disappointing", though the Kosovo and Macedonia quarrier emphasises that it is now"seeing the results of our efforts in establishing our product in key marketplaces throughout the world and the benefit or having our marble actually installed in developments".
Published 439 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has welcomed latest news from its Hong Kong-listed associate company, IRC, as "a significant step forward in bringing K&S into full commercial production during Q3 2016".
Published 447 days ago
New York and London theatre and entertainment media company, Reach4Entertainment (R4E) has announced results from a "milestone" 2015 and is now "confident that the company has a solid platform from which to progress in the coming years".
Published 448 days ago
I am not a great lover of rum but the US market is much bigger in both absolute and relative to population terms than the British one. It matters. Thus it is good news that Distil's (DIS) RedLeg spiced rum has been approved for sale in the USA by the US Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the TTB.
Published 453 days ago
Shares in Safestyle UK (SFE) are heading further higher on the back of an AGM update including that "the group's new financial year has begun very well" and that it is "confident that the group will deliver excellent results for 2016".
Published 453 days ago
Engineering and environmental consultancy group Waterman (WTM) has updated that revenue during the first nine months of its year (to end June 2016) is up 10%, that it continues to anticipate "a significant increase" in adjusted operating margin and that it now expects year-end net cash will be above the current market forecast.
Published 454 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has announced that its "order book has increased to €3.9 million for the year" and developments offering further potential.
Published 454 days ago
Shares in R4E (R4E) have raced ahead to 2,2-2.25p on news that Gate Ventures, the vehicle of controversial entrepreneur Johnny Hon has taken its holding up to 17%. No make that 18%, the TR1's come thick and fast.
Published 458 days ago
In the third Dragon's Den session at UK Investor Show the Dragons were myself (Tom Winnifrith) Steve Moore and Brian Kinane. The companies pitching were United Cacao (CHOC), Premaitha (NIPT), ECR Minerals (ECR), Forbidden Technology (FBT) and Asiamet Resources (ARS)
Published 458 days ago
The second Dragon's Den session at UK Investor saw myself, Steve Moore & Gary Newman invest £1000 each. Our choice was Xtract Resources (XTR), Berkeley Energia (BKY) and BMR Mining (BMR). Watch for the claim made by Jan Nelson of Xtract.
Published 459 days ago
The first Dragon's Den session at UK Investor Show saw myself, Gary Newman and Steve Moore each invest £1000 via our broker European Wealth in 3 stocks. Our choice of pitching CEOs were from Noricum Gold (NMG), Fox Marble (FOX), Nostra Terra (NTOG) and Eurasia Mining (EUA)
Published 460 days ago
Kosovo and Macedonia quarrier Fox Marble (FOX) has announced financing developments – including a conditional £2 million gross placing at 10p per share and we took part in a small way. The funding is:
Published 461 days ago
Post one of the Dragon's Den session we appear to be the owner of shares in Xtract Resources (XTR), I blame Steve Moore & Gary Newman. Anyhow, here is Jan Nelson presenting at UK Investor Show.
Published 462 days ago
The fourth Dragon's Den session at UK Investor show saw myself (Tom Winnifrith), Brian Kinane and Steve Moore each invest £1,000 in shares. Our choice of where to invest was ValiRx (VAL), Jubilee Platinum (JLP), Kibo Mining (KIBO) or Ariana Resources (AAU). Enjoy.
Published 462 days ago
Steve Moore and I like Distil (DIS). Indeed, thanks to Steve, we now own the shares following a Dragon's Den pitch at UK Investor Show. Here is head honcho Don Goulding to tell you more.
Published 463 days ago
At UK Investor Show on five occasions CEOs appeared on the main stage to pitch to the Dragons (myself, Gary Newman, Steve Moore and Brian Kinane). We invested £15,000 after all these sessions. Enjoy session 5.
Published 463 days ago
In that rarest of moves for an AIM-listed company, Berkeley Energia (BKY) has announced new financing from a major shareholder which includes new equity at a premium to the currently prevailing share price. Following several months of due diligence, mining-focused private equity firm Resource Capital Funds is to provide $5 million through a 0.375% net smelter royalty and a further $5 million for new shares at 32p each. The latter compares to a closing high share price since 2013 of 31.75p earlier this month and a pre placing close of 30.25p – these up from 26p at the start of the year and more than 50% on our share tip.
Published 467 days ago
I note that Avanti' Communicvations' (LSE:AVN) share price has fallen back since it was covered in detail by Tom, myself, Matt Earl and Evil at last week's UK Investor Show.
Published 468 days ago
Shares in troubled gold miner Avocet Mining (AVM) more than doubled the other day as its first quarter production update showed an increase of 3,149 oz at a cash cost of $925 per oz, $169 lower than the preceding period.
Published 468 days ago
Steve Moore and I think shares in 1Spatial (SPA) are cheap as we explained here the other day. Meanwhile here is the company's FD Claire Milverton in action at UK Investor show. Enjoy.
Published 469 days ago
1Spatial (SPA) has announced results for its year ended 31st January 2016 and that it "looks forward to the future with confidence".
Published 469 days ago
I rather think that the lineup of main writers is now complete. Joining myself, Malcolm Stacey, Amanda Van Dyke, Lucian Miers, Steve Moore, Nigel Somerville, Gary Newman, Chris Bailey, Thierry Laduguie, Evil Banksta and Cynical Bear we now - as of today - have Baby Bear, aka Graham Neary on board.
Published 470 days ago
Steve Moore and I tipped K3 (KBT) at a 149p offer on our Nifty Fifty website and the shares are now 350p bid. Not bad eh? But we are still not selling and to see why listen to David Bolton give a most excellent presentation at the UK Investor Show
Published 470 days ago
There's been news aplenty from Petropavlovsk (POG) in recent days and the bull case remains very much intact.
Published 470 days ago
At UK Investor Show we ran five Dragon's Den sessions where five CEOs each gave a five minute pitch and three Dragon's each picked one stock in which FIML invested £1,000 via our most excellent broker J Herbert Esq at European Wealth. And so £15,000 was invested on Tuesday Morning. Steve will track this portfolio over the year with each Dragon at liberty to place a sell order at any time. And so this is what we bought.
Published 475 days ago
In announcing that calendar 2015 results will be published on May 25, R4E (R4E) has issued a pleasing, if brief, trading statement. Chairman David Stoller is quoted as saying:
Published 476 days ago
FDM Group (FDM) has updated on "a strong operational and financial performance for the first quarter of 2016", seeing that "the board remains confident of meeting its expectations for the full year".
Published 476 days ago
Berkeley Energia* (BKY) has updated that a definitive feasibility study on its Salamanca uranium project "is well advanced and is due to be published in June", with the company's confidence emphasised by the commencement already of initial infrastructure work at the project.
Published 477 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has announced an agreement to acquire Retail Support International ApS (known as DdD Retail), a fashion retail-focused provider of proprietary 'point of sale' technology, as well as a placing to raise £13.5 million gross (£12.8 million net) at 330p per share to fund the acquisition (an initial approx. £7 million) and for additional product enhancement opportunities and working capital.
Published 479 days ago
Gold seems to be in an uptrend so maybe it is time to get a bit of exposure to the gold sector once more? But how? We adsked ten writers connected to this site and/or speaking at UK Investor show on Saturday if they had to bet the ranch on one stock what would it be?
Published 480 days ago
Having last week noted the conditional granting of finance facility waivers including for obligations for Petropavlovsk (POG) to comply with certain financial covenants, the company has now highlighted a further update from its Hong Kong-listed associate, IRC.
Published 482 days ago
Symphony Environmental Technologies (SYM) has announced results for a 2015 year in which"revenues remained disappointingly static", but that it "has sufficient working capital to execute its strategy and… as an operationally geared business, now running with a significantly lower cost base, the board looks forward to a financially more successful year in 2016".
Published 483 days ago
I was amused to see my suspicions confirmed today by the Telegraph (TW Note only 24 hours after me in bearcast) that the "draft proposal" received by Watchstone Group PLC (WTG) did indeed emanate from Edi Truell and Tantalum, his telematics vehicle. I shorted some Watchstone at 230p as, all things being equal, the shares should revert to where they were before the announcement once it is confirmed that the blundering Truell has nothing to offer.
Published 484 days ago
Petropavlovsk(POG) has highlighted an announcement from Hong Kong-listed associate company IRC that waivers in respect of IRC's project finance facility with ICBC have been conditionally granted – including for obligations for Petropavlovsk to comply with certain financial covenants.
Published 484 days ago
Action Hotels (AHCG) has announced results for the 2015 calendar year – with it"pleased" with "another year of growth… as we continue to execute and deliver our pipeline of three and four star hotels across the Gulf Cooperation Council and Australia into our profitable operating portfolio".
Published 487 days ago
It shows the lack of sentimentality of the ShareProphets team that we let the third anniversary of the founding of this site pass without notice. 6 April 2013 financial journalism covering the City was reinvented.
Published 489 days ago
Branded showers, taps, bathroom accessories, tiles and adhesives group Norcros (NXR) has updated that "underlying operating profit for the year is expected to be marginally ahead of market expectations" and that it looks "well positioned to continue to make further progress".
Published 490 days ago
Point of sale, payment and loyalty systems group Universe (UNG) has announced results for the 2015 calendar year and that "a combination of customer expansion and a broadening product portfolio means that we are confident that the pleasing progress that the group has been made so far can be continued". The following updates post a chat with management.
Published 493 days ago
I have writer's block. This is partly Steve Moore's fault and my own for writing things that bore me. It is partly my keyboard which does not me writing fecking hell or damn. On the markets I look at Iofina (IOF), Avanti Communications (AVN), Imaginitik (IMTK), SFO Prosecutions, Strat Aero (AERO) and I also again comment on the great news about Darren Winters from earlier today.
Published 497 days ago
As if poor shareholders in Lenigas Cuba (CUBA) did not have enough reasons to be miserable now they must cope with news that Richard "Gollum" Gill has published a buy note on the stock.
Published 500 days ago
I a not sure what I am allowed to say these days since Paul Scott issued his language diktat. But I start by saying thanks to those who have emailed or tweeted me about my personal news today but then explain why I am spending a day cooped up in London with the charming Halimah. Then it is onto Condor Gold (CNR) and Powerhouse (PHE) which are talking cock. Then I remember my question of AIM's disappearing oil stocks in light of news today from Caza (CAZA). I concur with Steve Moore regarding Sepura (SEPU) and ask a few questions about Port Erin (PEBI) the vehicle of my old pal Jim Mellon, shares in which appear to be collapsing. There is also more comment on Strat Aero (AERO) and Stratmin (STGR).
Published 505 days ago
SpaceandPeople (SAL) has announced results for the 2015 calendar year and its management"believes that SpaceandPeople is creating a solid platform for growth and a sustainable future". We agree and think this is not discounted in the share price.
Published 512 days ago
We are truly honoured. Paul Scott has posted here explaining why Steve Moore is wrong to be bearish about Synety (SNTY) - see HERE. Scotty admits that he is a bit of astake bull having called it consistently wrong (unlike Steve who has been 100% correct in being bearish to date) but insists that this time it will be different. In the interests of balance here is Mr Scott on a stock he does own.
Published 512 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has announced results for the six months ended 31stDecember 2015 and the following updates on these following a post-announcement chat with management.
Published 513 days ago
Action Hotels (AHCG) has announced the official opening of the largest hotel in its portfolio – the 368-room, new-build, ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street, bringing its operating portfolio to 10 hotels with 1,928 rooms.
Published 515 days ago
Lighthouse Group (LGT) on Friday noted an offer approach announcement from fellow AIM-listed financial services group AFH Financial and responded that it "believes that the indicative offer from AFH fundamentally undervalues the group and its prospects, especially in the context of the group's net cash position of £7.9 million as at 31 December 2015".
Published 517 days ago
Leading retailer and manufacturer of PVCu replacement windows and doors to the UK homeowner market, Safestyle (SFE) has announced results from a"record" 2015 and that so far this year "order intake has been significantly ahead of the same period in 2015 and the board looks forward to further progress in 2016".
Published 519 days ago
Berkeley Energia (BKY) has announced half year results, that contractors have been selected for power line and road works and that "with all major approvals in place and with the strong support and backing of the authorities, activities on the ground will commence shortly".
Published 519 days ago
Shares in marble quarry company Fox Marble (FOX) are continuing something of a recovery having fallen towards 10p early this month, with some further momentum now being provided by an update including that commissioning and opening of the company's factory in Kosovo "is anticipated by the middle of the year".
Published 520 days ago
With Petroceltic (PCI) put to bed I am looking for borrow in UK Oil and Gas (UKOG) which seems crazily valued at £51 million and represents cracking value to short at 2.43p Any suggestions are welcome. I am not short but would like to be.
Published 522 days ago
Shares in Distil plc (DIS) traded more than 20% higher, at just over 1p on Friday, on the back of an update that "we remain confident for the fourth quarter of the financial year and expect full year performance to be in line with the board's expectations" and a rare placing at a premium.
Published 523 days ago
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has updated that its third quarter ended 31st January saw performance "as anticipated" and that it "is well placed to deliver the board's expectations for the financial year as a whole".
Published 525 days ago
FDM Group (FDM) has announced results for the 2015 calendar year and that "2016 has started well for the group and we are confident that we are well placed to deliver another year of good progress".
Published 526 days ago
Specialist recruiter InterQuest Group (ITQ) has announced results for the 2015 calendar year and that "the new financial year has started positively". Good News.
Published 527 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has announced that a payment of €390,000 from Eboracum Limited will shortly be sent to the company as part payment of the €2 million order announced last year. This is good news and bad.
Published 530 days ago
One of the benefits of being a short seller is the joy and happiness that one engenders in others when being sandbagged by a short call that goes wrong. I have closed out my position in InternetQ (INTQ) at a substantial loss,
Published 532 days ago
1Spatial (SPA) has updated that "the group has made good progress in the second half of the year" to 31st January 2016, that it "ended the period with a strong order book and pipeline of opportunities for the coming year"and that it has exercised its call option to acquire a further 26% of its US distributor Laser Scan.
Published 533 days ago
Toscafund has surprised us all with an announcement yesterday that it is indeed backing a buyout of InternetQ (INTQ) at 180p per share in cash. I see that it was paying 180p in the market last fall so it had no choice - that was the lowest that its new SPV could offer. This is madness. It strikes me that an embarasment is being swept under the carpet.
Published 534 days ago
Waterman Group (WTM) has announced results for its half year ended 31stDecember 2015 and that it "looks forward to the remainder of the financial year and beyond with confidence".
Published 535 days ago
Reach4Entertainment (R4E) has updated that "trading has continued well in the last quarter of the year, with the expected seasonal uptick in revenues" and that it "therefore expects to report revenue, EBITDA and statutory profit before tax for the full year in line with market expectations". Good news all round.
Published 535 days ago
At first I thought that Angelo Moskov of Worldview must have gone crazy to bid 3p per share for the 70% of Petroceltic (PCI) that he doesn't already own. But I see now that there is method in his madness and that he is merely trying to remove the current management from ongoing discussions with the banks before they lose patience and pull the plug on the company.
Published 537 days ago
Amara Mining*(AMA) has announced results of an optimised pre-feasibility study, re-emphasising that "we expect Yaoure to be among one of the lowest cost, largest new gold mines in Africa".
Published 542 days ago
IFA network, The Lighthouse Group (LGT) has announced results for 2015 and that it "is well positioned to deliver future growth". We are ahead on this share tip but there is more to come.
Published 543 days ago
I have sent this letter. I don't expect a response on the matter of InternetQ (INTQ).
Published 547 days ago
Berkeley Energia* (BKY) has announced the commencement of a major exploration programme at its Salamanca project following an extensive geological review. The shares are a buy.
Published 547 days ago
Ahead of April scheduled results for 2015, Action Hotels (AHCG) has updated that its "nine operational hotels performed strongly and in line with expectations" and that "an increase in reported net asset value is expected as a result of new hotel openings, upward revaluations of existing properties and new additions to the portfolio".
Published 550 days ago
Investment Case: Safestyle UK (SFE) listed on AIM in December 2013 at 100p per share and has since performed well, the shares soaring to over 270p early this year. They are now however back to a current 256p offer price and a recent positive trading update suggests that they offer, particularly Income, value here - and so this is our latest Nifty Fifty share tip.
Published 552 days ago
It was announced this week that Gate Ventures, the totally dodgy company owned by Johnny Hon who is a total charlatan, has increased its stake in *Reach4Entertainment (R4E) by 5 million shares to 57.5 million shares - 12.12% of the equity. We think Hon is a total chancer - and that is being kind - but have noted before that him hoovering up loose stock will only accelerate the re-rating.
Published 556 days ago
African Potash (AFPO) was on a crazy valuation prior to today but has just run a red flag up the mastpole which must make any sane investor on this planet (and perhaps even some of its deranged groupies on the LSE Asylum) run for the hills.
Published 558 days ago
Berkeley Energia* (BKY) has announced a new company presentation and a quarterly report for the period to the end of 2015. All is on track.
Published 560 days ago
Waterman Group (WTM) has updated on "a successful interim trading period"ahead of results scheduled for 29th February.
Published 561 days ago
Provider of home improvement and energy saving & insulation products and services, Entu (UK) plc (ENTU) has announced results for its year ended 31st October 2015 - these impacted by the closure of its solar business, though with some confidence looking ahead.
Published 563 days ago
SpaceandPeople (SAL) has updated that "trading in the second half of 2015 was in line with management expectations", that it intends to propose a 10% increased dividend per share of 2.2p and that with an "announcement of a new relationship with British Land we have had a positive start to 2016"
Published 564 days ago
Readers may recall that my nap bear for 2014 was Purecircle (PURE), the natural sweetener company, at 610p. It ended the year at 510p and was also my main bear tip for 2015. It finished last year at 410p for a 33% decline in two years. Not bad but nothing spectacular.
Published 564 days ago
Following a mineral resource update for its Yaoure gold project in Côte d'Ivoire in November and capital and cost estimates generated in a pre-feasibility study announced in May, Amara Mining* (AMA) has announced an increase in the portion of higher confidence ('Measured' and 'Indicated') resources which fall within a designed project pit ('mineral reserve' and here based on an optimised pit shell corresponding to a gold price of $880 per ounce).
Published 565 days ago
Berkeley Energia* (BKY) has announced results from a three hole drilling programme at its Zona 7 deposit – which have highlighted "a possible extension to the mineralisation at depth"
Published 568 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has updated on its fourth quarter and full-year 2015 performance and what its strategy, "focused on the group deleveraging and on cash cost optimisation", means for 2016.
Published 569 days ago
Following on from Steve Moore's piece on Halosource (HAL) yesterday, I wanted to highlight a couple of further points, in particular commenting on the predicament in which it leaves the investment guru, Neil Woodford.
Published 570 days ago
InterQuest (ITQ) has updated that "trading for the financial year ended 31 December 2015 was in line with market expectations" and that it is "encouraged by the continued growth we are experiencing and the exciting initiatives of our new executive management team"
Published 570 days ago
As I learned last year to my cost on three occasions, it is better to short a share after rather than before it is subject to a takeover bid. For this reason, I goodly waited until Friday's announcement by Worldview Capital before selling Petroceltic short.
Published 570 days ago
Kudos to Lucian Miers – as Plexus Holdings (POS), recently identified by him HERE as, due to the current climate, looking to have hit a brick wall has announced that it "has seen a significant slowdown in planned activity by its customers… the company's financial results for the year to 30 June 2016… will be very significantly below market expectations". The shares are down as a result from the 125p of Lucian's piece and a prior close of 122.75p to currently struggling above 70p…
Published 571 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has notified UK Investors of a further announcement from IRC Ltd, the Hong Kong-listed industrial commodities company in which it is a significant shareholder.
Published 573 days ago
Distil plc (DIS) has announced, despite a reduction in sales of Blavod Black Vodka in Eastern Europe, strong overall volume and sales performance in its third (October–December) quarter.
Published 574 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has updated that "profitability for the first half is expected to show a significant increase year-on-year in line with management expectations" and that it"remains well positioned to attain market forecasts for the financial year, with high levels of recurring revenues as well as a strong pipeline of prospects"
Published 576 days ago
Our most recent share tip, FDM Group (FDM) has updated that it "maintained its strong performance in the second half of 2015 and expects to deliver full-year results slightly ahead of the board's expectations" as well as that "we enter 2016 with good momentum and I am confident that the year will see further progress for the group"
Published 577 days ago
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has updated on research (which chimes with our current view) of "a difficult 2016" ahead for UK companies. This follows the 'Red Flag Alert research' of this, the UK's leading independent insolvency firm, showing businesses ending 2015 in a challenging financial state and noting a difficult combination of factors for 2016.
Published 579 days ago
Celebrations must have been somewhat muted last month at oil services group Plexus PLC (POS) as it celebrated its tenth birthday on AIM. Things have got worse since then and unfortunately there is little sign of relief.
Published 582 days ago
Avesco (AVS) has announced results from a "record breaking year for the group with operating profit even higher than in 2012 when we had the benefit of the London Olympics in our home territory", that it "has exchanged contracts for the sale of the freehold land and buildings at its television studios in Wembley" and that "we expect to be able to continue our drive to increase profitability, to generate cash and to grow dividends".
Published 582 days ago
1Spatial (SPA) has announced "a strategic partnership with HERE, a leader in navigation, mapping and location experiences to deliver high grade map content to the enterprise market"
Published 585 days ago
Next week will mark the first anniversary of the announcement by private equity owned HSS Hire Group (HSS) of its intention to float on the London Stock Exchange.
Published 588 days ago
Investment Case: Despite in its current form only listing last year, principally IT personnel provider FDM Group (FDM) is a company we have have previously followed – its shares having previously been on AIM before the group was taken private in 2010. The shares were re-listed, this time on the main market, in June 2014 at 287p and exceeded 575p a couple of months ago before slipping back to a current 530p offer price. This makes its operational growth momentum and (growing) dividend interesting and sees the shares now rated as a buy.
Published 591 days ago
I have long been a critic of Avanti Communications (AVN) and although the shares have performed badly lately they could and should be trading a lot lower.
Published 592 days ago
This is very simple. Our writers will be serviing up their tips of the year but what do our readers think? The prize is lunch or dinner with me. The contest pick your top buy and top sell for 2016. It is easy to enter the contest and the deadline is midnight on Sunday January 3rd 2016.
Published 601 days ago
On 11th June 2015 it was announced that the Chairman of international media services group Avesco (AVS), Richard Murray, had sold 540,000 shares in the company at 175p each
Published 602 days ago
You have, by now, read my macro calls for 2016 which you may or may not have dismissed as complete mumbo jumbo but I hope they make sense. You will see that I expect the gold price to pick up during the next 12 months. Not to rocket but to improve and that makes Petropavlovsk (POG) at a 6.7p offer a very obvious first tip of the year.
Published 602 days ago
Specialist recruiter in technology, analytics and digital markets, InterQuest Group (ITQ) was a Tom Winnifrith tip for 2015 where, despite the company last month updating that "trading has continued to be strong and in line with management expectations", the shares haven't performed as hoped (TW don't rub it in or its a P45 for January). However, with the valuation now looking much too harsh, a new Chief Financial Officer now in position and a new CEO appointed (to start on 4th January), this is my first tip for 2016.
Published 603 days ago
On the long tack, it is congratulations to Tom Winnifrith with OptiBiotix Health (OPTI) soaring by more than 300%. Kudos also to Steve Moore (K3 Business Technology, KBT, +62% and Impellam Group, IPEL, +57%), Malcolm Stacey (Zytronic, ZYT, +43%), Chris Bailey (Coca-Cola HBC, CCH, +25%) and last of the double digit gainers Nigel Somerville (Core VCT, +11%). On the other hand, it is commiserations to…
Published 607 days ago
A stock we tipped the other day on our Nifty Fifty site, Waterman Group (WTM) has updated in conjunction with its AGM that "we have experienced continued growth in our markets during the first five months of the current financial year. The board looks forward to announcing further progress when our half year results are issued in February 2016"
Published 616 days ago
Amara (AMA) is one of only two gold stocks we rate as a buy on the Nifty Fifty website I run with Steve Moore. And this presentation demonstrates why the shares are cheap
Published 617 days ago
GLI Finance (GLIF) last week announced fundraising proposals and a dividend policy for going forward. We recently noted the possibility of new funding being raised, and the company has now published a prospectus for a new class of zero dividend preference shares at an issue price of 100p each and noted that it is also considering a possible issue of convertible unsecured bonds.
Published 618 days ago
Malcolm First: Hello Share Squirmers. There could be pressure on people like me who write about shares. We could be approached by PR people who want us to write about their clients. Which means that they expect us to give positive reports to companies which issue shares.
Published 620 days ago
Hot on the heels of Globo (GBO), the Internetq (INTQ) saga raises interesting questions about the nature of the due diligence practiced at firms such as Canaccord and RBC the brokers to both of these fraudulent enterprises.
Published 622 days ago
Shares in Wandisco (WAND) are sharply lower again today. They now trade at 87.5p, off 6.5p on the session and down from 140p a month ago. But there is far worse to come - as Steve Moore and I have warned time and time again - see HERE. And so with a few comments here is some sage advice from Iron Maiden.
Published 625 days ago
The now-named Berkeley Energia (BKY) has updated that "optimisation studies have commenced on the Salamanca project which are expected to reduce the operating costs making it amongst the world's lowest cost uranium producers once developed"
Published 626 days ago
So says the sage of the ShareProphets comments section. His thesis is a) that if tipsters were any good they'd be coining it in as investors themselves and b) that they are just talking their own book. He cites the Mirror journalists the City slickers who were sent to prison for pumping and dumping.
Published 626 days ago
GLI Finance (GLIF) has updated on its net asset value per share performance – reporting it to be 52.30p as at 30th September 2015. This represents a slight decrease of 0.34% from 52.48p as at 30th June, though compares to a current share price of 44.5p.
Published 630 days ago
IS Solutions (ISL) has announced results for the six months ended 30th September 2015, together with some boardroom changes and that "the board remains very encouraged and expects the company to deliver results comfortably in line with current market expectations for the year ending 31 March 2016". But...
Published 634 days ago
Following the summer resignations of its CEO and CFO, we maintained faith in technology specialist recruitment group InterQuest (ITQ). It has now followed a recent announcement of an appointment of a new CEO, with news that it has also reached agreement with a new CFO.
Published 638 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 638 days ago
With its shares falling sharply in the Globo plc fallout having closed the prior week at 218.25p, Greece-originated technology company InternetQ (INTQ) sought to reassure on its credentials – though I highlighted balance sheet and cash flow concerns (see HERE and HERE). The company has now announced a self-declared "positive trading update" to 30th September…
Published 640 days ago
Having taken an 'if at first they aren't receptive, announce the news again' approach last week, Motive Television (MTV) is today again back of the announcement trail as it seemingly again seeks to generate interest in its shares. I wonder why?…
Published 641 days ago
Reach4Entertainment (R4E) announced on Friday the terms of a conditional, including on 2nd December General Meeting approval, placing and bank refinancing. We have this morning made a chunky (for us) investment in the shares (ie we bought in the market).
Published 643 days ago
Of the many lessons to be learned from the Globo (GBO) fiasco, perhaps the most salient is the danger of deriving comfort from institutional purchases. In the final days, as an obscure German fund named Forum was hoovering up stock (the founder's stock, as it later transpired) a lot of impressionable punters were doubtless persuaded not to sell and maybe even "average down" on the basis that these guys are professionals and therefore "must have done due diligence"
Published 644 days ago
I looked at Ubisense Group (UBI) in August – noting "performance payments" to CEO Richard Green despite the company's shocking track record and concluding that, even after the shares had declined from 275p reached last year to 103.5p, "even if the balance sheet was exceptionally strong (it's not: net cash of £2.5 million), the track record suggests this a clear bargepole stock" (see Ubisense Group – interim results continue shocking track record, where are the shareholders' "performance payments"?). The following updates with the shares currently down to 66p on the back of an, ahem, "trading update"…
Published 645 days ago
I concluded a previous piece on Grafenia plc (GRA) HERE by saying that, despite the shares having fallen to 15.5p, withfurther detail of interim results expected to be announced on 9th November, it looked one to avoid. This has proven wise, with the share price now 12.875p…
Published 645 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 647 days ago
Of the many odd fish that swim in the murky waters of AIM, they don't come a lot odder than Victoria PLC (VCP).
Published 648 days ago
Following a recent positive trading update, Shoe Zone (SHOE) announced a £4.74 million sale of shares by CEO Anthony Smith and COO Charles Smith, with a purchase of rather less by the wife of CFO Nick Davis.
Published 652 days ago
In an announcement entitled "Zona 7 transforms Salamanca project economics", Berkeley Energy (BKY) has announced the results of a pre-feasibility study which shows "the project now has a Net Present Value of $871.3 million (£580.9 million) with an internal rate of return of 93% based on a discount rate of 8% and a long term uranium price of $65 per pound"
Published 652 days ago
The announcement of an agreement with Armenian mobile financial service provider MobiDram for the 'HomeSend' payment hub joint venture it is a partner in has failed to impact shares in 'mobile money' company eServGlobal (ESG) – perhaps unsurprisingly after some massive forecast cuts last week…
Published 655 days ago
I am abroad at the moment and the London Stock market doesn't kick off until 3PM my time. This has its drawbacks as I have recently found myself reading twitter and bulletin boards while I await the open. Although I am not a particularly sensitive soul I do feel rather cross when I read the perfectly beastly things being said about me.
Published 655 days ago
Distil plc (DIS) has announced results for its half year ended 30th September 2015 and "that a leading group of supermarkets has listed RedLeg Spiced Rum for 700 of its largest stores throughout the UK in time for the Christmas period"
Published 660 days ago
Another doff of the cap to Matt Earl who recently reminded that shares in Dialight plc (DIA) were more expensive that you'd think HERE. A "Strategic Review and Trading Update" announcement from the company today currently sees the shares down approaching 15% at 570p…
Published 661 days ago
At the 18th April 2015 UK Investor Show, the top shorts of bears Evil Knievil, Lucian Miers, Matt Earl and Kevin Ashton were announced. As noted HERE, we're monitoring progress of those also having been identified as shorts by significant investment companies...
Published 661 days ago
Tom has written on the shocking developments from Globo plc (GBO) today HERE and HERE. Having first been commented on HERE on this site, the following from the subsequent coverage shows some of the significant red flag warnings we highlighted and to look out for in appraising future investments…
Published 662 days ago
Petropavlovsk (POG) has updated that it "successfully achieved its Q3 production levels" and "is confidently following its repayment schedule and expects to stay within its financial covenants at the year-end results" - good news!
Published 662 days ago
1Spatial (SPA) has announced a "strategic contract win" with its associate Laser Scan Inc to provide geospatial solutions to a US Federal Government Agency.
Published 664 days ago
Today's full-year results announcement from Northamber plc (NAR) shows second half revenue down approaching 9% and a loss increased to £0.60 million (taking the full-year loss to £0.89 million). Not great, but even worse when factoring in that the company's interim results statement included that it was "hopeful" that an "improved trading performance will continue… The board is confident that the company is well placed to benefit from further improvements in revenue growth" and that there has only been one announcement (a "Change of Adviser") in between! …
Published 666 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 667 days ago
Shares in Transense Technologies (TRT) currently trade around 40% higher today, at 1.625p, following an announcement that it has agreed to sell its 'IntelliSAW' business to US-headquartered global manufacturing company Emerson for a net "approximately £2.9 million" and it stating that it believes it now "is well positioned to become a self-sustaining, high-growth and cash-generative business". Hmmm…
Published 668 days ago
Last week, when writing about joke silver prospect Arian (AGQ), I promised to highlight another miner with almost ten times the market cap and even lowlier prospects.
Published 670 days ago
Investment Case: As noted last month with Berkeley Energy, it is not a surprise to see eye-watering share price declines over previous years for stocks with sector: "Mining". Shares in *Petropavlovsk plc, formerly Peter Hambro Mining, (POG) have particularly suffered – they down from more than 400p at the commencement of 2011 and more than 100p at the commencement of 2013 to a current 6.47p offer price – amidst a combination of sector-wide and company-specific challenges, the latter including a vast debt pile. However, a recent refinancing and refocusing – with production now being optimised from a cash generation point of view – now offer the promise of a decent recovery from current levels and the shares are a buy…the target price to sell is 19p within three years.
Published 674 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 676 days ago
As a timely reminder that short selling is not all plain sailing right now, I have been somewhat inconvenienced by the sharp rise in the shares of APR Energy (APR) on the news that 18% shareholder Fairfax Financial along with 11% owner Albright Capital Management and an entity named ACON Investments may make an offer.
Published 676 days ago
Berkeley Energy (BKY) has announced an updated JORC compliant mineral resource and reiterated that "the inclusion of the important Zona 7 deposit is expected to fundamentally improve the economics of the Salamanca project, even at current uranium prices, by significantly increasing the mine life, the production rates and by reducing the operating costs"
Published 676 days ago
Another day gone and things look even grimmer in the execution chamber as we watch the public death of AIM POS Golden Saint Resources (GSR). Still only £1100 of the £250,000 needed has been pledged which means that – after costs – three days of the crowd funded debt death spiral has realised a net MINUS £1,938.50. But I am afraid the true picture is EVEN WORSE than that. Moreover…now it is time to meet Gollum, the mastermind behind this fiasco.
Published 677 days ago
I was all set to recommend selling Arian Silver (AGQ) when it popped to 12p the other day for no apparent reason. It's now 8p to sell and despite a lowly market cap of £2.8 million the shares are likely to trade much lower.
Published 682 days ago
Holders of AIM-listed Plus500 (PLUS) might wish to note yesterday morning's RNS from their white knight, Playtech (PTEC). It concerns the proposed takeover by Playtech of Irish-headquartered CFD broker Ava Trade Ltd. It seems that the Central Bank of Ireland has raised an objection, and has informed Playtech that it is opposed to the proposed transaction (see HERE).
Published 682 days ago
Tom Winnifrith & Steve Moore write: Owning gold shares for the past three years has been investment hara-kiri. Portfolios have been slaughtered and with Glencore shares collapsing there really is blood on the mining streets right now. That's our cue. On our Nifty Fifty website we are tipping a gold share TODAY and we see the shares trebling within two years.
Published 684 days ago
Updating on interim results from Universe Group (UNG) a few days ago, we noted that a second half weighting does mean elevated risk to forecasts, though management's quiet confidence reassured. On Friday the company has announced "a major contract with Conviviality Retail Plc, the UK's largest franchised off-licence and convenience store chain with the Bargain Booze fascia"
Published 686 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 688 days ago
You have to hand it to Avanti Communications (AVN): faced with its fourth annual earnings or revenue miss on the trot it has managed yet again to paper over the ever-widening cracks in its creaking edifice.
Published 690 days ago
SpaceandPeople (SAL) has announced results for the first half of 2015 and a pilot contract for its Mobile Promotional Kiosk with one of the largest retail owners in the French market.
Published 693 days ago
As predicted recently, this week's Tungsten (TUNG) AGM statement and first quarter trading statement did nothing to suggest that there is a viable business there and underlined the difficult predicament facing hapless CEO, Richard Hurwitz, who has been tasked with clearing up the mess left by former boss, the wannabe disrupter and visionary, Edi Truell.
Published 695 days ago
Globo plc (GBO) has announced the signing of a Letter of Intent to acquire "a Bring-Your-Own-Device and Mobile Security software provider based in Europe". This has currently helped the shares up to 35p, though they remain well down from above 60p in June and there continues to look good reason why…
Published 695 days ago
GLI Finance (GLIF) has announced that "it has successfully launched GLI Alternative Finance plc, a closed end fund focusing on a loan portfolio diversified by geography, asset class, duration and security"
Published 695 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 696 days ago
Having more recently updated on tips of the year Vislink plc HERE and Impellam Group HERE, I now update on my other selection following some recent announcements and research updates…
Published 698 days ago
Investment Case: Sector: "Mining". Therefore, it is not a surprise that, having been above 100p just over 4½ years ago and 30p 2½ years ago, shares in what was Berkeley Resources, now Berkeley Energy (BKY), traded down towards 11p earlier this year. However, the last few months have seen a recovery to a current 21p offer price
Published 700 days ago
Owner of premium drinks brands, Distil plc (DIS) has updated on "a continuation" of the positive trend from its AGM update in July.
Published 700 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has announced results for its year ended 30th June 2015 and what it describes as"a major contract win for its 'ax l is fashion' solution". The following updates post a chat with the management of a company where we are c100% ahead on our share tip. There is more to come...
Published 702 days ago
On 10th September Rob Terry and his Quob Park Estate vehicle took their shareholding in Imaginatik plc (IMTK) up to more than 14% and, based on his track record, it is not a surprise to see the shares currently on biggest fallers lists – down approaching 13% presently today to 6.75p. This follows the company's announcement of a "Director Loan"…
Published 702 days ago
Monday's statement from Globo (GBO) was clearly designed to put the best possible gloss on the fact that its attempt, signalled in June, to raise $180 million in the junk bond market is foundering.
Published 702 days ago
It is always worth looking at the small print, the notes at the back of an annual report. The following gem appears in the (unaudited) interim statement prepared by APR Energy's (APR) auditors, Deloitte, stating that:
Published 702 days ago
For the past five years owning shares in mining companies has been investment suicide. And in three years on the Nifty Fifty website Steve Moore and I have tipped just three mining stocks and now follow just one. Avoiding the sector has helped us deliver returns averaging more than 20% per annum. But now we are planning to tip a mining stock TODAY.
Published 705 days ago
Last week I warned about overvalued AIM listed Tech promotion Tern (TERN) PLC at 26p. The shares are currently 19p so it does look as is sentiment and momentum has finally turned (excuse the pun)
Published 705 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has announced results for the first half of 2015 and that, whilst frustrated by operational setbacks experienced, remains "confident of fulfilling our plans".
Published 708 days ago
Clean Air Power (CAP, long been missing an 'R') has updated on its liquidation process, including that it expects the AIM admission of its already suspended shares to be cancelled in one month…
Published 709 days ago
InterQuest Group (ITQ) has announced results for the first half of 2015 and that "we enter the second half of 2015 with positive momentum, positioned well to capitalise on the opportunities in the second half of the year and beyond".
Published 711 days ago
With its shares have risen towards 17p last year and commenced 2015 at more than 10p, a bearish stance on Audioboom Group (BOOM) has proven wise since – with the shares slipping below 4p last month. The announcement of the placing out of an existing equity stake of 10.8% in the company has though currently helped the shares recover a further approaching 17%, to 5.25p, but does this change the picture here?
Published 712 days ago
Having announced in June its selection by Network Rail as preferred bidder for the Concourse Exhibitions, Events & Distributions contract, 71.5p per share July share tip SpaceandPeople (SAL) has now announced the signing of the five year contract, sending its shares currently more than 12% higher on the news to 86.5p.
Published 713 days ago
Noting a little changed share price in 2015 despite continuing positive progress, we tipped shares in IS Solutions (ISL) on our Nifty Fifty website at a 56p offer price in May. They had since been little changed, but a trading update has now changed that – with they currently approaching 35% higher on its back at 69p-71p. So far so good...
Published 714 days ago
Following an announcement earlier this week from ASOS plc (ASC) that founder Nick Robertson is to stand down as CEO with immediate effect, being succeeded by Chief Operating Officer Nick Beighton, I update with the shares currently falling further below 3000p…
Published 715 days ago
Shares in cloud video platform company Forbidden Technologies (FBT) are a major faller today – currently down more than 15% at 6.875p. What do the results for the first half of 2015 - that this fall follows the announcement of - show? …
Published 716 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 717 days ago
Tom Winnifrith earlier highlighted the latest mad missive from Rob Terry ('The latest mad missive from Quindell fraudster Rob Terry of Quob Park – questions questions') HERE and I now take a look at its 'analysis' of Imaginatik plc (IMTK)…
Published 718 days ago
The August Edition of UK Investor Show Magazine is now live and the cover story explains why the fraudster Rob Terry of Quindell (QPP) infamy should, and will, go to prison. There are seven share tips from Tom Winnifrith, Zak Mir and Steve Moore and the ShareProphets writers answer the question "if you had to what stock would you bet the ranch on". Amanda van Dyke explains why she is still a gold bull and there's more..
Published 718 days ago
InterQuest Group (ITQ) has announced that Chief Financial Officer Michael Joyce has tendered his resignation in order to take up a role at a private business, though reassured that "trading has continued to be strong since the half year".
Published 722 days ago
A results statement for the first six months of 2015 today from Plus500 (PLUS) includes that "notwithstanding the impact of UK regulatory matters, the group has performed well over the period". Hmmm. Is this really the case? …
Published 723 days ago
Having announced on 30th July that "recent trading has been in line with market expectations" before updating on 18th August that "underlying operating profit for 2015 will be below market expectations" and that "Leonard Seelig, the group Chairman, is leading an operational review of the business", APC Technology Group (APC) has since announced the departure of CEO Mark Robinson…
Published 724 days ago
Image Scan Holdings (IGE) has made an announcement entitled "First Delivery of New Detector Panel and Software", which though includes that "the development of these exciting new products has taken longer than we had anticipated and those delays have impacted the company's current year financial performance"…
Published 724 days ago
A previous table showed a combination of AIM stocks covered bearishly on this website and disclosable to the FCA short positions had delivered outsized returns. In honour of blinkx plc (BLNX) - see HERE - the following updates...
Published 724 days ago
I leave it to Steve Moore to have the pleasure of plunging the knife into the dog blinkx (BLNX) after its profits warning HERE. It is a dog pure and simple and the shares, at 21p, are a stonking sell with a 12p target for starters. On the matter of blinkx we long term bears are again vindicated while the self-proclaimed expert on the stock, the disgraced ramper Roger Lawson of ShareSoc is one more shown up as a fool as well as a knave. But now to EBITDA.
Published 726 days ago
Mattioli Woods (MTW) has announced an agreement, expected to cost £14.6 million, for the development of a new 60,000 square foot office on the site of the former city council headquarters in central Leicester. This should bring long-term benefits, but...
Published 728 days ago
Having only listed in March at 27p per share, shares in trading software and online brokerage operator, TechFinancials, Inc. (AIM: TECH) are currently crashing towards 20p on the back of an announcement including that it "will not meet market expectations with regard to revenue and profit for the year to 31 December 2015". With the shares having exceeded 40p in the month of their listing, is this, like Plus500 (PLUS), going to disappoint following a share price surge?
Published 729 days ago
Having reached 275p last year, shares in Ubisense Group (UBI) have declined further to a current 103.5p following interim results earlier this week. Is this understandable? Er, just a bit! …
Published 729 days ago
Recently operationally troubled CFD trading provider Plus500 (PLUS) has updated on the proposed 400p per share acquisition of the company by Playtech plc following a vote by shareholders of the latter on the deal…
Published 730 days ago
Having closed last week at 93p, shares in Quindell plc (QPP) have risen to a current more than 97p following announcements of the appointment of a new Chief Executive and that the FCA's investigation into previous statements made by the company has been discontinued. BUT…
Published 730 days ago
Having updated on 30th July that "recent trading has been in line with market expectations. A more detailed update will be provided following the end of the current financial year which closes on 31 August 2015", APC Technology Group (APC) has now updated that "underlying operating profit for 2015 will be below market expectations" and that "Leonard Seelig, the group Chairman, is leading an operational review of the business with the board"…
Published 730 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 731 days ago
Having previously warned on shares in Eckoh plc (ECK) towards the end of last year at more than 45p (see HERE), the following updates with them currently recovering above 40p following an announcement of "a number of new contract wins for its secure payments products"…
Published 732 days ago
News that the acquirer of Quindell's (QPP) 'Professional Services Division' Slater & Gordon has delayed the release of results for its financial year (see HERE) has re-sparked debate on the Australian stock…Tom Winnifrith took up the charge here.
Published 736 days ago
With its share price having spiked to 1.75p following a recent announcement that it has been awarded a grant and signed an outline license agreement with IBEX Innovations Ltd for exclusive access to IBEX's 'MAP' technology for the security portable X-ray inspection market, shares in Image Scan Holdings (IGE) are now drifting lower again…
Published 737 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 738 days ago
Steve Moore previously commented on AIM-listed WANdisco plc (WAND) HERE ('after the 2015 Q2 sales update, it's forecast reduction time yet again!'), including noting forecasts of net cash reducing to $6.2 million at the year-end and an $8.5 million net debt position at the end of next year, with there currently a $10 million revolving credit facility in place with HSBC to March 2017. If this balance sheet position was not too close for comfort already, we now have reason to question the exact nature of the HSBC facility…
Published 738 days ago
Something just does not add up with AIM listed (pro tem) Camkids (CAMK). Tom Winnifrith and Steve Moore have already considered the credibility of yesterday's RNS HERE and pronounced Camkids, from Fujian Province in China as a prime candidate to join the club from the Norfolk province of AIM. We've been looking at it from a different angle: the annual report and accounts. What we find is shocking.
Published 742 days ago
On Wednesday it took more than 75,000 words across two 2014 results RNSs for the new management at Quindell plc (QPP) to attempt to decipher what had been inherited and they still had to admit "it is also possible that there are transactions into which the group has entered of which we are unaware". The following details some of the transactions which are now described as having "unresolvable ambiguities in analysing the substance of", some including where the commercial purpose has been unable to be verified…
Published 744 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 746 days ago
Having extensively warned on shares in Dialight plc (DIA) and most recently HERE, they crashed well below 500p on a 27th July interim results announcement, though have now recovered to around 550p. What's the outlook now here?
Published 747 days ago
Investment Case: From around 140p, shares in SpaceandPeople plc (SAL) fell swiftly towards 60p last year following a profit warning on slower than anticipated sales. However, the final results statement for 2014 noted that "the cost base of the business at all levels has been lowered, the effectiveness of the sales team improved and a new mobile promotions kiosk product and service launched successfully. As a result, trading in the latter part of the year stabilised and also showed promising signs of growth". This has since been followed by a positive AGM update and contract news and, at a current 80p offer price, the shares are a buy - we tipped this at 71.5p offer two weeks ago.
Published 750 days ago
Impellam Group (IPEL), a 2015 tip of the year from me HERE, has announced results for the six months ended 3rd July 2015 and a £28.8 million (and up to £37.2 million) acquisition. To update…
Published 750 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 754 days ago
Entu (ENTU) has announced results for the six months ended 30th April 2015 and that "we have seen and continue to see increased activity levels in the second half, and we remain on track to meet market expectations for the full year".
Published 756 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 757 days ago
We tipped Norcros shares a few weeks ago at a 20p offer. The offer is now 20.25p. Suffice to say they are still cheap. Our next hot share tip is out this afternoon on the Nifty Fifty and we hope to beat our current average gain per tip ( 23% average holding period less than a year) with that one. To access that tip click HERE
Published 758 days ago
I previously updated on Tungsten Corp (TUNG) in May – warning as the shares recovered above 100p (see HERE). They currently trade at around 75p following results for the company's year ended 30th April 2015…
Published 758 days ago
Online electricals retailer AO World (AO.) has updated with an "AGM and Interim Management Statement". An update on profit and cash generation progress then, Er…
Published 762 days ago
I am not a great one for gloating, but as I head off for the summer holiday, it is with a certain satisfaction that I note that four of the stocks that I have covered extensively here over the last year are currently suspended.
Published 763 days ago
I previously updated on foundries and engineering group, Chamberlin (CMH) HERE, concluding at 85.5p that there looked long-term value, though present headwinds meant patience would likely remain required. The following updates post an AGM statement…
Published 764 days ago
Having updated on one of my three tips for 2015 earlier HERE, the following updates on another – K3 Business Technology (KBT), which was recommended at a 225p offer price HERE…
Published 764 days ago
I named shares in Vislink plc (VLK) as one of my three tips for 2015 at a 38.5p offer price in December HERE and previously updated that there looked to be continued value at 49.5p in March HERE. However, a new "incentive policy" for executive directors and senior management has raised shareholder ire (see HERE) and the following details five specific reasons why this is justified and my view now…
Published 765 days ago
A new "incentive policy" for executive directors and senior management at Vislink plc (VLK) has led to a shareholder action campaign - which looks 100% justified
Published 767 days ago
Plastics Capital (PLA) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2015 and that "trading in the current year is in line with management's expectations" - we note those numbers had already been shaved some months ago. However
Published 769 days ago
Avanti Communications (AVN) came out with a fourth quarter trading update on Monday and followed that up yesterday with news of a contract win in Spain. The shares have edged higher to 210p, valuing the company at £306 million representing a good shorting opportunity for those who can see through the usual Avanti bluster.
Published 771 days ago
AdEPT Telecom (ADT) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2015, with it "winning direct new business with larger customers, particularly in the public sector, and complementing this with earnings enhancing acquisitions". It is all good stuff.
Published 771 days ago
A previous table showed a combination of AIM stocks covered bearishly on this website and disclosable to the FCA short positions had delivered outsized returns. The following updates.
Published 772 days ago
Last September Visa Inc. announced a lessening involvement with Monitise plc (MONI) – prompting us to ask if the US-based company can go it alone who will be next? (see HERE). Today Monitise has announced that Visa Europe Ltd has now also notified it that it will reduce its shareholding over time while continuing to work with the company throughout the duration of its current commercial agreement…
Published 772 days ago
I wrote about APR Energy (APR) two weeks ago after the shares had crashed from 360p to around 200p on a terrible trading statement and warned of the dangers of bottom fishing.
Published 786 days ago
A 3:33pm "trading update" from Clean Air Power (AIM:CAP) which concludes that "the board has, therefore, decided to initiate a more comprehensive review of the short-term options available to the group with the principal aim of providing the financial stability that the group needs" seems like a clear job for the ShareProphets RNS translation service (extracts from the RNS in normal font, my interpretation in bold italics)…
Published 789 days ago
When a share price collapses it is often tempting to go bottom fishing on the basis that the fall is overdone. Some people use this as an investment strategy: look for the biggest fallers of the day and buy them: hoping that the bigger the fall, the bigger the bounce will be. Sometimes this works but it's usually down to luck rather than judgement and more often than not ends in tears.
Published 789 days ago
1Spatial (SPA) has announced a recommended £2.08 million all-share offer for fellow AIM-listed Enables IT Group (based on a value of 6.75p per 1Spatial Share. Its a cute deal.
Published 791 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 792 days ago
Health technology company Fitbug (FITB) has announced "an agreement with inflight retail specialist, Scorpio Worldwide Ltd, to include a Fitbug/Kiqplan product bundle within its range of products promoted to major airlines". This follows an announcement last month that Fitbug "has expanded its pioneering Kiqplan offering through the launch of four new training programmes". However, what's the bottom-line impact?
Published 792 days ago
So far this week shares in Flowgroup plc (FLOW) have fallen by more than 46% (to 14.25p), in Sabien Technology Group (SNT) by 17.5% (to 8.25p) and in Inspirit Energy (INSP) by approaching 8% (to 0.58p). Each is an AIM-listed company involved in efficient boiler products, so what's happening here?
Published 792 days ago
The average gain per share tip on the Nifty Fifty website run by Tom Winnifrith is now 23% on an offer to bid basis. The average holding period is one year. Okay that is only after two and a half years but given the dire performance of the AIM Index in that period it is not bad going is it? And Tom has a new tip out this afternoon, you can access it HERE
Published 795 days ago
International media services group, Avesco (AVS) has announced results for the six months ended 31st March 2015 and that "the full year results are again likely to exceed the board's prior expectations"
Published 797 days ago
I don't know much about Playtech or its "colourful" founder Teddy Sagi (briefly imprisoned as a lad for grave deceit, bribery and insider trading) but they have certainly done no favours to bulls and bears alike in bidding 400p per share in cash for Plus 500 (PLUS).
Published 798 days ago
With shares in SCISYS plc (SSY) falling (from above 80p to sub 60p, giving a current market cap of £17.3 million) on the back of an announcement that it expects "a substantial short fall in profits for 2015 compared to the guidance issued in March" (see HERE), its house broker has sought to reassure on "a singular issue, fully provided, and measures have been taken to avoid recurrence". However, the forecast reductions are savage…
Published 798 days ago
Boohoo.com (BOO) has updated on "a good start" to its year to end February 2016. I give my reaction…
Published 798 days ago
Owner of premium drinks brands including Blackwoods Gin and Vodka, RedLeg Spiced Rum, Blavod Black Vodka, Diva Vodka and Jago's Vanilla Cream Liqueur, Distil plc (DIS) the other day announced results for its year ended 31st March 2015 and that "we are optimistic for the coming year"
Published 799 days ago
Reach4Entertainment* (R4E) has announced it has entered into a conditional agreement to restructure its existing £14.785 million loan facility. This would see £5.155 million of debt converted into new shares equivalent to 12.5% of the fully diluted share capital on completion of the restructuring and a put option granted by R4E, the exercise of which would see it buy back the shares in five years for £2 million. The remainder of the facility is to be repaid in cash, with the agreement giving R4E until 30th September to secure the funding.
Published 800 days ago
Plus500 (PLUS) has announced an "update regarding its remediation plan for customers of Plus500UK". How useful is the update though? …
Published 800 days ago
Software and IT services group specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, Sanderson (SND) has announced results for the six months to 31st March 2015 and "a good level of confidence that the group will continue to make further progress and deliver trading results in line with market expectations". I update following a chat with management…
Published 803 days ago
As my father spends an hour in Church I explain why filial devotion does not stretch far enough for me to join him - I despair for the Church of England. Then I add to the points raised by Nigel Somerville in his earlier piece on another Geoff Morrow - of Gate infamy - China joke stock (HERE) and to Steve Moore's comments on Audioboom (made HERE) and make general points about companies that update on KPIs. Finally I disagree with Comrade Malcolm Stacey on his market view of Saturday HERE
Published 803 days ago
Amino Technologies (AMO) has updated investors that "the return to revenue growth, as announced at the time of the Amino's full year results in February 2015, has continued and for the half-year expects to report year-on-year growth in both revenue and profit before tax" and that it "expects the traditional second half seasonal weighting in revenues to continue and is confident that results for the full year ending 30 November 2015 will be in line with current market expectations."
Published 804 days ago
Audioboom Group (BOOM) has announced "key performance indicators" for the second quarter of its year to end November 2015. How helpful though are these in assessing the investment promise on offer?
Published 805 days ago
Hopefully those with interest in provider of technology and support to the space, commercial & defence and media & broadcast sectors, SCISYS plc (SSY) took note of my warning at above 80p per share in April (see HERE) as the shares have experienced an approaching 30% one day decline, to sub 60p, on the back of a "trading update" (ShareProphets translation service: "profits warning"). So what now?
Published 806 days ago
Investment Case: Having reached more than 70p in March 2014, shares in IT systems integrator, IS Solutions (LSE:ISL) have fallen back to a current 60p offer price, capitalising the company at £21 million. The shares rose from 46p on the back of a December announcement of the successful conclusion of negotiations for "a major Analytics contract" and that "the business also has a number of exciting opportunities within its pipeline; this together with recent business wins and a number of projects coming back on stream bodes well for the future", but are thus far little changed in 2015 having commenced the year at 54.25p. This looks to fail to reflect continuing positive progress and the shares are a buy.
Published 807 days ago
Online electricals retailer AO World (AO.) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2015 including an emboldened statement that "the group has delivered significant growth in UK sales and UK Adjusted EBITDA over the year whilst also delivering significant strategic progress; broadening its product range, with the introduction on AO.com of audio-visual equipment and expanding internationally with the successful launch of AO.de in Germany". A focus on "strategic progress", sales and adjusted EBITDA, rather than real profitability and cash generation then. Red flags ahoy? …
Published 807 days ago
From the FCA's spreadsheet of short positions required to be disclosed to it, the following details the shorted AIM shares (by net short position %) and if this position has increased (red), reduced (green) or remained unchanged (black) since a previous analysis HERE…
Published 807 days ago
GLI Finance (GLIF) has updated its loyal investors on a 7.1% increase in net asset value per share in the first quarter of 2014 and that the finance platforms in which it has invested "are all performing well, many are ahead of our expectations and we expect significant developments in the second half of this year"
Published 808 days ago
Google Zainab Binte Mohamed Omar and not a lot comes up other than his ownership of 29% of troubled stockbroker Daniel Stewart (DAN) via a Singapore registered vehicle named Epsilon Investments.
Published 810 days ago
Owner of London and New York-based theatre and live entertainment marketing businesses, Dewynters and SpotCo respectively, together with London-based signage and fascia business, Newman Displays, Reach4Entertainment* (R4E) has announced results for the 2014 calendar year and that it is "continuing positive discussions with our main lender to create a future financial base which will support our ability to maintain and extend our position as market leaders in promoting theatre, film and live entertainment events"
Published 810 days ago
Alliance Pharma (APH) has updated investors that "trading in the first four months of 2015 has been satisfactory" and that"we look forward to the remainder of 2015 with confidence."
Published 810 days ago
As of midnight "flip flop" Ben "pitchfork" Turney will be editing this website as I am on leave for the next six to nine months. Let me explain.
Published 811 days ago
Prime People (PRP), the recruitment business specialising in the real estate & built environment, energy & environmental and insight & analytics sectors has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2015 and that "levels of activity are currently steady providing confidence for a good outcome for 2016".
Published 813 days ago
Cripin Odey made headlines back in January when he predicted that we were on the cusp of a market meltdown so savage that would be talked about in 100 years' time. Odey is smart and presumably has taken out a hedging strategy that will protect his fund from such an outcome.
Published 818 days ago
Amino Technologies (AMO) has announced an initial €7.9 million, and up to €10.5 million, acquisition of Booxmedia Oy, a Finland-based Software-as-a-Service cloud TV platform provider, extending its IP entertainment delivery offering beyond its current connected-home focus.
Published 819 days ago
Empresaria (EMR) has updated that it "has made a good start to the year, delivering like for like growth against this period in 2014" and that it "remains on course to meet market expectations for the full year."
Published 821 days ago
As we prepare to publish a new hot share tip on Tuesday, here is a lesson on a mistake that Steve Moore and I made on the Nifty Fifty website we run. It cost our readers a few quid but we are unapologetic and would do exactly the same again. Let me tell you about Restore PLC.
Published 821 days ago
Spatial 'big-data' software and services company, 1Spatial (SPA) has announced results for its year ended 31st January 2015 and that, despite a current "crucial development phase", it "is encouraged by the progress made during the start of the current financial year and looks forward to the future with confidence". A chat with CEO Marcus Hanke left us confident that this is more than words. This has been a good share tip from us on our Nifty Fifty website but there is more to come.
Published 822 days ago
Both Avanti Communications (AVN) and Tungsten Corporation (TUNG) had trading updates last week. The knee jerk response to both was to mark the shares higher before slamming into reverse, in the case of Tungsten within minutes and with brutal consequences, whereas Avanti has experienced a gentle drift to just below the pre update level of 230p.
Published 824 days ago
As the death star imploded the rebel alliance was contacted by Sith Lord Zak Mir with a message stating that there was good in everyone, even him. And so we are delighted to welcome the prodigal Jedi back to the fold.
Published 825 days ago
Amara Mining* (AMA) has announced the results of a pre-feasibility study for its Yaoure gold project in Côte d'Ivoire. The shares are currently 5% lower, at 15p, on the announcement as a net present value, at a 10% discount rate and $1,250 gold, of $228 million compares to $566 million in a 2014 preliminary economic assessment.
Published 827 days ago
Owner, developer and asset manager of branded economy and midscale hotels in the Middle East and Australia, Action Hotels (AHCG) has announced a maiden profit for 2014 and that "the first four months of 2015 have been encouraging"
Published 827 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) was my first tip of the year for 2015 and, post a recent acquisition and research update, the following updates…
Published 829 days ago
China Nonferrous Gold (CNG) used to be known as Kryso Resources and was among the most interesting of the companies presenting at the UK Investor Show 2015 - the video is below. It is not a current tip for Steve Moore and myself but we track it. It is "on the radar"
Published 829 days ago
The recent slide in the shares of Tungsten Corporation (TUNG) accelerated on Friday despite a massive post-election relief rally in the broader market. It would appear that investors are nervous ahead of a trading update due on Thursday. In theory there should be no surprises as the company stated in its interim statement in January:
Published 830 days ago
Investment Case: Formerly Blavod Wines & Spirits, this is a company which has been around for ages but has thus far failed to deliver. However, having joined the board as a non-executive in 2010, Don Goulding - previously a senior executive and lastly UK Managing Director at industry giant Diageo - took the full reins in late 2011 and has led the company to exit distribution for third parties to focus on developing owned brands. Although not yet reflected in the financial results, this looks a move of some promise and the shares at a 0.8p offer price, capitalising the company at sub £3.5 million, are a buy.
Published 831 days ago
Having updated at its end of April AGM that it continues to monitor opportunities to further develop its range of platforms, "but given the potential size of origination capability of our existing platforms, we are only pursuing significant opportunities that can add material and differentiated origination", GLI Finance (GLIF) has announced a £1.25 million investment in Funding Options Ltd.
Published 832 days ago
Amiong those presenting in the healthcare and biotech master class were John Dawson of Alliance Pharma, Steve Moore, Adam Reynolds of Premaitha and Optibiotix, Venn Life and Collagen. Enjoy
Published 837 days ago
Having announced in March that "increased activity levels in the typically busier winter months for insolvency leave the group well placed to deliver the board's expectations for the year as a whole", Begbies Traynor (BEG) has now disappointingly updated that it "now anticipates that the outturn for the full year will be below market expectations" - pointing to a further decline in the insolvency market in the UK…
Published 838 days ago
Attending the London Stock Exchange (LSE) AGM on Wednesday was a profoundly depressing experience. It was like what one imagines a Communist Party Plenum in some third world country might be like, packed with muscular security and unsmiling jobsworths. Extremely un-British in all respects. A photocopy of a letter from my broker confirming my holding in the company was not deemed acceptable and I had to take a cab ride up the road to get the original.
Published 838 days ago
AdEPT Telecom (ADT) has announced an agreement to acquire Centrix Ltd, a provider of complex unified communications and managed services, for up to £10.5 million – it looks a canny deal.
Published 841 days ago
AFC Energy (AFC) is currently enjoying its day in the sun as the AIM Casino's favourite fuel cell stock. Hydrogen fuel cell technology companies were all the rage in 2006/7 at about the time AFC Energy was floated, with Ceres Power and ITM Power reaching stratospheric valuations before crashing back down to earth and, in the case of Ceres Power, all but wiping out shareholders.
Published 841 days ago
Steve Moore and I have been big fans of K3 (KBT) for a while on the Nifty Fifty and the share tip has done us proud. Our confidence was bolstered by this confident presentation at the UK Investor Show 2015.
Published 843 days ago
AdEPT Telecom (ADT) has announced a new bigger, longer and cheaper banking facility as it reports that it continues to identify earnings enhancing acquisition opportunities
Published 844 days ago
Having disappointingly updated last month that earnings would be "materially lower" than expectations "as the result of regulatory delay leading to deferrals in the signing of certain contracts and delays in achieving revenues from certain of the alliance partnerships", Lombard Risk Management (LRM) has now more positively updated that its collateral management, clearing, inventory management and optimisation solution, COLLINE, "has recorded a significant number of sales and 'go-lives' in the past few months"…
Published 847 days ago
Steve Moore and I have followed NetDimensions (NETD) for a while although it is not a current share tip - we banked profits. Anyhow, here is a video of its presentation from the UK Investor Show 2015
Published 848 days ago
Steve Moore and I have done well with our share tip on GLI Finance (GLIF) and we still see upside. Here is its CEO Geoff Miller - a diehard West Ham Supporter - presenting at the UK Investor Show to explain what might seem a hard story, in words clear enough for all to understand.
Published 849 days ago
Amara Mining* (AMA) has announced a proposed $10 million strategic investment by International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group and the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector…
Published 850 days ago
As well as working on UK Investor Show last week, Steve Moore and I were also working hard on two new share tips and both will go live this afternoon just after 3 PM.
Published 853 days ago
Symphony Environmental Technologies (SYM) has announced disappointing results for the 2014 calendar year, but that "our expectations for 2015 and beyond are to deliver positive and meaningful growth".
Published 854 days ago
Developer and supplier of point of sale, payment and loyalty systems, Universe Group (UNG) has announced results for the 2014 calendar year and that "we look forward to 2015 and beyond with confidence". The following updates post a chat with Chairman Robert Goddard and CEO Jeremy Lewis.
Published 859 days ago
Another winning share tip! AdEPT Telecom (ADT) has updated that profit for its year ended 31st March 2015 is expected to be in line with market consensus expectation, with cash flow ahead – enabling a more than 58% increase in total dividends for the year.
Published 859 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has announced further sales to Berkeley Homes plc and initial small scale orders for its red, Rosso Cait, marble for customers in Egypt.
Published 860 days ago
To save me answering a few emails, tickets for the UK Investor Show should start landing today. By tomorrow all bar 40 of the 2000 tickets should have landed so if you have booked and not got a ticket by Thursday PM email me on [email protected] and I will sort it out. The show is now just 10 days away and there are still 40 tickets available so if you want one book NOW at www.UKInvestorshow.com – there are many reasons to book but one is "The bloggers café"
Published 863 days ago
Amara Mining* (AMA) has announced results for the 2014 calendar year, emphasising that "we are now well positioned to deliver the next major African gold mine"...
Published 867 days ago
I remember a holiday about ten years ago was somewhat ruined by a short position that I had left open ten bagging against me on the news that a convicted fraudster named Terry Ramsden (older readers may recall this flamboyant figure from the 80s, younger readers can take a refresher HERE as he is back) had taken a stake and was about to make a comeback.
Published 868 days ago
Stanley Gibbons (SGI) has disappointingly announced that "because a number of anticipated high value sales within the group's retail business were not completed in the run up to the (31st March) year end… it is expected that results will be materially below current market expectations". The following updates with the shares now 8.5% lower in response at 241p-246p…
Published 871 days ago
Two weeks ago I gave a two part presentation at the ShareProphets Seminar. Part two covers the reasons to be bearish on shares and 5 shares to sell. Part one are the reasons to be bullish and serves up 5 share tips at the end. The part 1 video is below:
Published 871 days ago
I commend to you Steve Moore's excellent article on Outsourcery, the Piers Linney POS, HERE. I add a few thoughts on this Rum & Coke company. I also comment again on Rosslyn Data witha few new thoughts on slow death/quick death for the share price of Coms and on the woeful position of Sovereign Mines of Africa. There is more bad news, I am sorry to say, for my old friend Jim Mellon and Billing Services and I take a look at Quadrise Fuels.
Published 873 days ago
GLI Finance (GLIF) has been a good share tip for us and has just announced results for the 2014 calendar year and that "there is every sign that 2015 with be a breakthrough year for the company following the investments made during 2014".
Published 874 days ago
Speciality pharmaceuticals company Alliance Pharma (APH) has announced results for the 2014 calendar year and that "we enter 2015 well placed for resumed growth". That is not discounted in the current share price.
Published 875 days ago
Vislink (VLK) has announced results for the 2014 calendar year and that its "markets continue to be challenging"but that it is buoyed by its expanding higher-margin software offering and more efficient integrated communication division under new leadership.
Published 875 days ago
This has been a bad share tip. The macro scene has been unhelpful but whichever management team has been in charge EMED Mining (EMED) has not prospered. The latest revelation prompts us to apologise sincerely but to advise selling at 3.25p. Enough is enough.
Published 877 days ago
I recently had a rant about AIM fraud Naibu (NBU), pointing out the profoundly depressing fact that it is only when the monthly retainers paid by the fraudsters to the UK non-executives,(in this case Giles Elliott and David Thomas: remember the names) dry up as the last of the money is stolen, that any action is taken: in this case the suspension of the shares and an admission that the CEO has disappeared (apparently he is in prison)
Published 883 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has announced what it emphasises are "very encouraging" results for its half year to 31st December 2014 and that "we continue to be confident of the exciting growth prospects available to us". The following updates post a chat with management...
Published 884 days ago
Your hint is that this refers to a small and pooly attended rival investor show.All you need to:is to consider the five photos below and name the odd one out and exactly why. Second hint, the photoshop picture (3) is meant to be Steve Moore. Put your answers in the comments section below
Published 887 days ago
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has updated that "increased activity levels in the typically busier winter months for insolvency leave the group well placed to deliver the board's expectations for the year as a whole".
Published 887 days ago
Gulf Keystone (GKP) reminded potential suitors on Thursday why there was no reason to pay top dollar for it with the news that permission was needed from the 13% bondholders to avert the exercise of a put option which has been triggered by a fall in its asset value.
Published 888 days ago
Following its February 2014 combination with Cinema City to create the second largest cinema chain in Europe, Cineworld (CINE) has announced results for the year to 1st January 2015 and that "the prospects for the group in 2015 are good. There is a strong film release programme and we are currently on track to open a further 20 cinemas during the year".
Published 890 days ago
Specialist recruitment group InterQuest (ITQ) has announced results for the 2014 calendar year and that "early trading in 2015 has been in line with management's expectations and the benefits of a bigger contractor book are being seen".
Published 893 days ago
Provider of managed services and specialist staffing primarily based in the UK and North America, Impellam Group (IPEL) has released its results statement for the 53 weeks ended 2nd January 2015. This has helped the shares surge to 662.5p, comparing favourably to a 485p offer price at which this was a share tip on the Nifty Fifty in November 2014
Published 893 days ago
Provider of rental equipment and services for broadcasting, Avesco Group (AVS) has updated that "trading in the first few months of the financial year has continued the positive trends seen during last year", that "the outlook for the summer period also looks promising" and that "the directors anticipate that results for the year to 30 September 2015 will be comfortably ahead of their previous expectations".
Published 893 days ago
Infamous bear raider Evil Knievil has open a small "dipping a fat toe in the water" short position in AIM Casino listed Mar City (MAR) following the recent shocking profits warning and details of related party deals, as explained by Steve Moore HERE.
Published 894 days ago
Fear not it is a one off! A regular bearcast will be back later today. But pro tem I talk about some of the stocks Steve Moore and I have recommended and written about recently on the Nifty Fifty. I talk about how Steve and I met and our working relationship and how we look at both the markets today and also what to recommend, comparing those stocks with the Bulletin Board favourites. And I look at how a long only portfolio should handle risk and diversification.
Published 894 days ago
International specialist staffing group, Empresaria (EMR) has announced results for the 2014 calendar year and that "we see exciting opportunities for growth across our network, particularly from the investments made in 2014, and look forward to the year ahead with confidence". We are heading for 100% up on this share tip but there's more to come.
Published 897 days ago
Specialist in the collection and delivery of live video and associated data for the broadcast, surveillance and defence markets, Vislink plc (VLK) has updated that it "anticipates adjusted operating profit for 2014 to be ahead of market expectations… following a better than anticipated end to the year" and that "trading for the current year has started in line with market expectations".
Published 899 days ago
Steve Moore and I tipped shares in Adept Telecom (LSE:ADT) at a 143p ofer price last week on the Nifty Fifty. The shares are now 150p mid and if you can buy at 150p or less you should and here is why.
Published 902 days ago
It is a double share tip day today with both new share tips appearing at 3.30 PM today.
Published 917 days ago
Plastics Capital (PLA) has done itself no favours at all with a trading statement which for word analysers is a bit of a puzzle. The good news is that it states baldly that it is on track to hit forecasts for the full year after a Q3 which was strong.
Published 917 days ago
Tipping a recent IPO is always a tad nerve-wracking as some companies just take their eye off the ball as they head to AIM, regarding it as the end of a journey not the start. And so I am rather chuffed with Entu (ENTU) which listed in the autumn at 100p, we tipped at a 107p offer and which is now 120p-124p. Well done to young Steve for it was he who spotted this. Results out this week vindicate the lad.
Published 918 days ago
Last week, Avanti Communications (AVN), the cash guzzling satellite operator accompanied its interim statement with news that it had raised $91.5 million in a placing, This was an equity cushion demanded by bondholders before they stumped up more money to fund the Hylas 4 satellite so the coast is now clear for another $115 million debt to be added to the $520 million it already has, giving the company an annual interest bill of $60 million plus. Not bad for a company that has an operating cash outflow.
Published 921 days ago
A few weeks earlier than we had expected, Premaitha Health (NIPT) has announced that it has received CE-mark approval for its Iona test and will therefore launch it commercially at once. This is good news and the shares are now 23.5p – 24.5p.
Published 922 days ago
Afren's (AFR) recent woes put it right up there with Quindell (QPP) as the must do short for February. Where Quindell has one deadline this month, Afren has two:
Published 923 days ago
Marketing communications group Creston (CRE) posted up what can only be described as a rather weak trading statement for the period from 1 October to December 31. Sales grew by 5% in H1 but that slowed to just 1% in Q3.
Published 924 days ago
The boy Moore and I do not want to seem like total spivs - we are long term investors. But....
Published 928 days ago
Last week's meltdown in the share price at Afren (AFR) shows how devastatingly fast is the transfer of ownership from shareholders to debt holders when a company's loan covenants are breached.
Published 929 days ago
Premaitha (NIPT) has announced that it is almost there on getting the crucial CE-mark for its IONA test. It has passed two key milestones including ISO 13485:2003 certification which confirms that Premaitha's quality management system has been approved as applicable to the design, development and manufacture of in vitro diagnostic reagents and associated software for non-invasive assessment of genetic abnormalities.
Published 931 days ago
Specialist wealth management and employee benefits business, Mattioli Woods (MTW) has announced results for the six months ended 30th November 2014, that "current trading remains in line with the board's expectations" and that "we believe our blend of wealth management and employee benefits positions us well to secure further profitable growth going forward".
Published 935 days ago
Having suffered two share price collapses in the last two years, it looks like Quindell (QPP) is setting itself up nicely for a third.
Published 936 days ago
Restore plc (RST) has updated "that trading for the year ended 31 December 2014 was in line with expectations"and that "we have an excellent platform for further profitable growth with strong visibility of earnings".
Published 936 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has updated on trading in the first half of its year to 30th June "in line with management expectations, supported by an increase in sales of approximately 20% against the same period last year".
Published 936 days ago
Having earlier in the day announced that a delegation from the regional authorities would be visiting the Rio Tinto mine site, EMED Mining (EMED) yesterday morning announced that during a meeting it has received formal communication of the granting of a mining permit – "the last significant regulatory approvals… before normal mining and processing operations can commence".
Published 937 days ago
International specialist staffing group, Empresaria (EMR) has updated investors that calendar 2014 "profitability will be slightly ahead of market expectations" and that "we see exciting growth opportunities ahead and are confident in our ability to continue to deliver profitable growth".
Published 938 days ago
Amara Mining (AMA) has announced a conditional-on-shareholder-approval 16p per share placing to raise gross proceeds of £14.6 million ($22 million) – ostensibly to enable further exploration of its Yaoure gold project in Côte d'Ivoire and to fund it to the point of making a construction decision for the project, including the delivery of a bankable feasibility study late this year. However, the company also faces some potential - albeit we think low risk - legal nasties…
Published 939 days ago
Shares in Action Hotels (AHCG) are now off 12% today at 54.5p. I have spoken to the company and it is not aware of any reason for the share price fall.
Published 940 days ago
Investment Case: September-announced interim results from Universe Group plc (UNG) saw the company report "delays in getting customer go-ahead for planned projects… (but) significant progress in establishing our refreshed product set in our chosen markets… We look forward to strong trading in the second half of the year". The shares subsequently fell towards 5p having been 7.5p early in the year. However, there is clear evidence that trading momentum has indeed since been positive and with the shares still now available at a 7.5p offer price, they are a penny share buy.
Published 941 days ago
I lasted shorted shares in Sirius Minerals (SXX) in August 2013 when the company, desperate for cash, announced a death spiral equity finance loan from an unnamed New York based firm. This was misleadingly dressed up as an investment, with CEO Chris Fraser even crowing that it demonstrated "confidence in the on going development of the York Potash project" when anyone familiar with death spiral financing knows that it did no such thing and such arrangements invariably cause steep declines in the share price.
Published 942 days ago
Like most of my family, Malcolm Stacey has a range of daft lefty opinions which see us disagree on a number of matters. He is a top bloke and we agree on a lot (busting financial fraud, immigration, etc), but I still have images of him sitting in Wales kneeling in prayer to the Money Tree and that brings us to Impellam (IPEL) which he wrote about on Saturday and where we half agree.
Published 942 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has updated that, with much of the 2014 order book having been pushed into H1 2015, 2014 reported sales are expected to be only around €150K, though that it is "encouraged by the strong finish to the year in terms of deferred income, signed offtakes and sales agency agreements" , with "confirmed orders to date for 2015 currently stand at €1.5m of block and slab marble".
Published 944 days ago
Quindell (QPP) has had a good few days after it emerged that Toscafund, a UK hedge fund, holds 5.4% and upon the appointment of some fairly ropey NEDS, one of whom has already been involved in a mini scandal since he joined Quenron. The shares have tripled from last month's lows to value the company at £393 million, not bad for a concern whose founder has very publicly been involved in all kinds of fraud and skulduggery.
Published 944 days ago
Cineworld Group (CINE) has announced that "we anticipate that group profitability for the year ended 1 January 2015 will be towards the top end of market consensus". This follows its UK & Ireland business having continued to outperform the wider market and stronger box office growth elsewhere.
Published 944 days ago
Provider of rental equipment and services for broadcasting, Avesco Group (AVS) has announced results for its year ended 30th September 2014 which reflect both restructuring and even year events (Winter Olympics, FIFA World Cup, Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup) benefits. The company though added that "the first quarter of the current financial year has continued the positive momentum from last year".
Published 948 days ago
Cripes, I sometimes think that I am a sad git. Here I am preparing for my birthday on Monday and what am I doing? I'm talking to Steve Moore about the next share tip we are publishing on the Nifty Fifty website. Sad or what?
Published 951 days ago
Action Hotels (AHCG) has announced the completion of two new hotels in the Middle East and updated that it "is in discussions in relation to a number of opportunities across the Middle East".
Published 951 days ago
Investment Case: Provider of energy efficiency products and services to homeowners in the UK, entu (UK) plc (ENTU) listed on AIM at 100p per share on 30th October. However, unlike most IPO's, the prospective ratings – a price/earnings multiple of 8.4x and forward dividend yield of 8% – suggested this one potentially attractive. This has been reinforced by a trading update earlier this month noting that the company "has seen robust trading in the year across all its divisions" and that it is seeing a positive combination of increasing brand awareness and increasing public awareness of the economic and environmental benefits of energy efficient home improvements. Still though, at a current 107p offer price – only a little above the IPO price – the shares are a buy.
Published 951 days ago
Specialist IT recruitment group, InterQuest (ITQ) has updated that it expects a "slightly ahead of consensus" outturn for 2014 and that it considers it has "a strong and sustainable platform for continued growth in 2015".
Published 952 days ago
Amara Mining* (AMA) has announced an increase in total mineral resources at its Yaoure gold project in Côte d'Ivoire from 6.3 million ounces to 6.8 million and a 63% increase (to 4.4 million ounces) in the higher confidence 'Indicated' resource.
Published 952 days ago
What a surprise: on the first trading day of 2015 Naibu (NBU) announced that it has lost its Finance Director. After two years as a public company it rather looks like Naibu is shutting up shop and disappearing into the night.
Published 957 days ago
Having initially requisitioned an EGM to 'bring about much-needed change' at EMED Mining (EMED), it has been announced that multinational commodities group Trafigura in conjunction with other cornerstone investors in EMED, Orion Mine Finance and Xiangguang International, has now conditionally agreed a $24 million, and up to $30 million, bridging finance facility with the company in conjunction with Ronnie Beevor, Isaac Querub Caro, Ashwath Mehra and Bob Francis all agreeing to resign from the board, with a new Chairman (Roger Davey) and CEO (Alberto Lavandeira) appointed.
Published 958 days ago
Mark Howitt has today penned an article slating writers who write about shares they do not own. He is a young man, naïve of the ways of the world and – with respect – an amateur talking out of his arse and here is why.
Published 962 days ago
Steve Moore and I have been cautious on shares and especially AIM shares for a year. We have not touched some sectors like oil at all. And we have been vindicated. We are value investors and thus caution is the name of the game. The skills we use in detecting frauds like Quindell are the same skills we use in unearthing value buys. But it is Christmas and we have a new share tip underway. Like the Tailor of Gloucester we are still hard at work on it as the big day approaches.
Published 963 days ago
As I noted in my ten macro themes for 2015 article (HERE) the analysis that Steve Moore and I serve up is bottom up – that is to say company specific – not so much macro driven. But the odd macro think session establishes useful tramlines for the investment process. My first, second and third share tips for 2015 are already live and so onto Number 4.
Published 963 days ago
My general view on equities is mildly bearish as I explained in my macro calls piece HERE. As such I will be serving up 5 longs and five shorts as my tips of the year. The first long was HERE and the first short HERE. Now for Number 3, Globo (GBO), the sort of flim flam that will suffer badly in a bear market.
Published 963 days ago
Having recently re-capped on my 2014 selections HERE, it is now time to repeat the exercise for 2015. My first tip of the year 2015 appeared HERE. My second selection was published HERE and my third choice is….
Published 964 days ago
David Lenigas is tweeting his upset with James Parter for having suggested that Solo Oil (SOLO) is a sell and has suggested that Mr Parter is likely to be sacked. Let me make this 100% clear to my friend Mr Lenigas and to other CEOs out there who think that I sack anyone for having an opinion. I will NEVER do that.
Published 964 days ago
Having recently re-capped on my 2014 selections HERE, it is now time to repeat the exercise for 2015…
Published 966 days ago
I last wrote about Purecircle (PURE) in March and predicted that 2014 would be the year for the big collapse. I was wrong: the permascam that is Purecircle has remained rock solid while all around it our favourite bear trades have borne fruit. Indeed, for the price of Purecircle (£940 million) you could now buy Quindell. Gulf Keystone Petroleum, and Globo combined and still have change left for Iofina.
Published 966 days ago
Having recently re-capped on my 2014 selections HERE, it is now time to repeat the exercise for 2015 and so here is my first tip of the year…cue drumroll
Published 972 days ago
International specialist staffing group Empresaria (EMR) has announced an initial £1 million, and up to £1.5 million, acquisition of 75% of Ball & Hoolahan Ltd, a UK-based recruiter serving the marketing industry. Good news for all those who followed this impressive share tip.
Published 973 days ago
Avesco Group (AVS) has updated that it anticipates profit for its year ended 30thSeptember 2014 "will be ahead of current expectations" following "stronger and quicker than anticipated" cost savings and an "extremely busy" final quarter.
Published 976 days ago
Begbies Traynor (BEG) has announced results for its half year ended 31st October 2014, an up to £8.5 million (initial £5 million) acquisition and a placing to raise £5.3 million. This is not a great share tip so far but we remain buyers.
Published 984 days ago
Fox Marble (FOX) has announced an offtake agreement for €1.5 million of block marble in three six month tranches and which will see it receive an immediate €250,000.
Published 986 days ago
Marketing communications group Creston plc (CRE) has announced its results for the six months to 30th September 2014 and that "current trading is in line with its expectations for the full year".
Published 986 days ago
Technology enabling digital programming and interactivity over IP networks-focused Amino (AMO) has updated that"profit before tax for the year ended 30 November 2014 is expected to be above market expectations" on the back of a return to revenue growth in the second half. Good news for those who followed our tip of just a few weeks ago – we are massively ahead already.
Published 986 days ago
Earlier this year, Doc Holiday made a sublime call to short Ocado (OCDO). His timing was perfect. No sooner had Doc sounded the death knell for this stock, the share price took a cliff dive. The logic of Doc's call was deadly simple – "sell the founder".
Published 987 days ago
Specialist pension, wealth management and employee benefit services provider, Mattioli Woods (MTW) has updated that "current trading is in line with the board's expectations" and that it "is very well positioned to secure further profitable growth going forward".
Published 993 days ago
Not flinching once despite threatening lawyer's letters, wholesale harassment abuse and even death threats Tom Winnifrith has over the past six months clearly exposed the fraud and lies at the heart of the Quindell (QPP) soufflé. He did this using forensic analysis and is using the same skills to today serve up two new share tips on two sites.
Published 993 days ago
Hmmmm. Lots of low grade Aim stocks are flying, the FTSE 100 is nearly at all-time highs, there is a lot of rubbish being spouted about a Santa Rally coming early and I am stuck in Greece preparing to start the olive harvest tomorrow when I should be punting rubbish on AIM making a killing. Right? Wrong.
Published 994 days ago
K3 Business Technology (KBT) has updated that trading in its new financial year to date "has been in line with management expectations" and also announced the appointment of an experienced interim Chairman, Lars-Olof Norell, following the retirement of its current Chair at its AGM.
Published 1000 days ago
Cineworld Group (CINE) has updated on trading for the 46 weeks ended 13th November 2014 "in line with our expectations" and "remains confident of delivering results in line with market expectations for the full year". Good News
Published 1018 days ago
Provider of software and services to manage spatial 'big data', 1Spatial plc (SPA) has announced results for the six months ended 31st July 2014 and that it "is encouraged by current trading and looks forward to the future with confidence".
Published 1026 days ago
Young Steve Moore and I tipped Amino at an 82p offer on our Nifty Fifty website on October 15 2014 - the shares are now 95p to 96p. You see we can write BUY share tips and when we do we are good at it! But there is still upside. We reckon fair value for the shares is 133p and here's why.
Published 1037 days ago
Steve Moore and I are pretty proud of NOT having published a new tip for several months on our pemium Nifty Fifty website There are commercial pressures to write tips – folks do not renew if you see no tips! – but we could not have acted differently and felt good about ourselves. Instead we have advised the selling of a number of older tips some at a profit others not so and we hope our readers are now fairly heavily cash weighted as a result.
Published 1044 days ago
As the Quenron (QPP) share price slips away losing more and more of the hard earned savings of the morons who have invested in this company which has demonstrably lied to its shareholders in a serial fashion, the morons response is sheer comedy genius. Today's twitter moron of the week is Ron Clifton @CliftonPlace who is possibly the thickest of all the Quindell morons on twitter.
Published 1066 days ago
Hello Share Spinners. ASOS stands for As Seen on the Screen. This was a great monicker for a company when internet shopping was just getting into swing. But it sounds a bit dated now, which is probably why the initials are used these days.
Published 1070 days ago
Manager of promotional and retail merchandising space in shopping centres and other high footfall venues, SpaceandPeople plc (SAL) has announced results for the first half of 2014 "challenging period for the group, with trading in a number of areas being slower than had been anticipated". It now expects full-year "profit before tax and non-recurring costs of between £800k and £1.0million and profit before tax but after non-recurring costs, of between £500k and £700k". Is this discounted in a share price, which has fallen from more than 150p earlier this year to a current sub 50p?
Published 1071 days ago
Shares in internet media company blinkx plc (BLNX) have recovered somewhat from near 30p lows to a current 43p. Having consistently warned on the dangers of the valuation here since the shares were 93p in April 2013, I update in the following.
Published 1073 days ago
Provider of trading and risk management software to the global commodity and energy markets, Brady plc (BRY) has announced results for the first half of the 2014 calendar year. It said that "the enthusiastic activity being demonstrated across all parts of the group, delivering both growth and healthy margins, gives me every confidence that we are on track to perform in line with full year expectations". What does this suggest for the current valuation?
Published 1074 days ago
Following an announcement from provider of software and services to the public sector and asset intensive industries, Idox plc (IDOX) that it has signed a $4.08 million contract with "an American multinational energy corporation", the company's broker, N+1 Singer, has updated its view on the company. Does this support mine?
Published 1077 days ago
A key element of dispute in its rejection of advances from Carillion, Balfour Beatty (BBY) has announced the prospective sale of its professional services division, Parsons Brinckerhoff, to WSP Global Inc. for a cash consideration of $1,352.5 million (£820 million). I review in the following, with this set to see up to £200 million returned to shareholders in Balfour and the shares having nudged ahead to a current 243.60p in response.
Published 1078 days ago
Shares in UK vending business, SnackTime plc (SNAK), currently trade approaching 30% lower on the day on the back of an announcement of lower than expected earnings for the year ended 31st March 2014, current year trading "behind the same period last year" and the suspension of the sale process for its 'Drinkmaster' business. I update in the following, with the shares currently at 9.5p.
Published 1078 days ago
Perform Group (PER) has announced that the independent members of its board of directors have concluded that the 260p per share announced "final cash offer" from its previous majority owner and current 42.5% shareholder "undervalues the company and its prospects" and that they will accordingly recommend shareholders reject it. So what now is the outlook for this stock?
Published 1079 days ago
Shares in Goals Soccer Centres (GOAL) currently trade 4% higher today, at 221p, on the back of its results for the first half of the 2014 calendar year and with the company "confident in meeting its financial expectations for the current financial year and delivering long term value to its shareholders". I update in the following having, at 192.5p, identified potential value in the shares early this year.
Published 1080 days ago
Shares in provider of a range of services to help organisations and individuals manage security and business risks, Red24 plc (REDT) have recently declined to a current 11.375p from 15.5p on the back of a decision of a major customer "to make changes to the products that they offer". I review the situation in the following.
Published 1080 days ago
Following another profit warning last week, shares in inkjet printing technology company Xaar plc (XAR) continued to fall – closing the week at 420p. I update in the following with them now having nudged slightly higher towards 423p and on the back of an update from researcher Edison.
Published 1081 days ago
Shares in sports content commercialisation group Perform (PER) currently trade 26.5% higher today, at 257.7p. This is on the back of an announcement from the group, which said that its previous majority owner and current 42.5% shareholder is to make an offer to acquire the remaining shares in Perform, which it does not already own at 260p each. This is conditional on it increasing its holding to more than 50%. I review this news below.
Published 1081 days ago
Having noted in its results earlier this year that "our development team has continued to develop the FileFinder product, and has delivered performance and functionality improvements since launch. The division expects to make an important product related announcement later this year", shares in recruitment software group Dillistone (DSG) are currently approaching 3% higher, at 105.5p. This is on the back of the new product announcement. I provide an update in the following.
Published 1084 days ago
Rangers International Football Club (RFC) has announced an open offer of up to 19,864,918 new shares at 20p each to raise up to £3.97 million before expenses (an estimated £3.6 million net) to purportedly "allow the company to start implementing the strategy to re-build and re-establish Rangers as a stable, sustainable and successful business to deliver both shareholder value and footballing success". However, further reading reveals a continued dire financial position from a company which has already delivered an extraordinary litany of woe since its December 2012 AIM admission.
Published 1085 days ago
Having fallen to 40.5p earlier this month, shares in 'mobile money' technology company Monitise plc (MONI) traded more than 14% higher yesterday, at 48.25p. This follows the announcement of a further extension of its relationship with IBM. In the following I review the announcement and share price move.
Published 1086 days ago
I previously wrote on specialist recruiter Hydrogen Group (HYDG) in January – concluding that, with the shares at 108p, the prospective rating looked reasonable but that the cautious would await further clarity (see HERE). The shares remained above 100p until a May AGM update which included that "in some areas we have observed a delay in conversion to completed placements and we are yet to see an across-the-board uplift in Net Fee Income. It is therefore still too early to say with certainty when the different practices and regions will see sustained acceleration". Ahead of the 16th September-scheduled interim results, I take another look at this stock following a further update on trading last month and with the shares currently at 80.5p.
Published 1087 days ago
I previously wrote on shares in power and data cabling provider Volex plc (VLX) in February – noting early signs of the business recovering but that I'd want further, solid, evidence that the transformation plan is delivering before considering an investment at the then approaching 120p per share (see HERE). I update in the following with the shares currently little more than 80p, despite the company updating positively at its AGM last month.
Published 1092 days ago
Provider of business supplies and outsourced business services, office2office plc (OFF) is recommending a 51p per share takeover offer – noting that it offers "shareholders an attractive premium of 84.6% to the closing price on 20 August 2014" and "97.1% to the average closing price of approximately 25.88p for the six month period ending on 20 August 2014". With this offer in mind, I take a look at the company now that story has changed for longer-term shareholders.
Published 1093 days ago
Carillion plc (CLLN), "following discussions with Balfour Beatty's major shareholders", has offered improved prospective merger terms in an attempt to get the board of Balfour Beatty (BBY) to re-engage in discussions and agree to get a current 5pm Thursday deadline for Carillion to announce a firm intention or not to undertake a transaction extended. The following updates with Balfour having now rejected this.
Published 1093 days ago
Shares in the software and IT services business, specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, Sanderson Group (SND) have fallen from 74.5p following interim results in June. They now trade at 63.5p - back below their level of when I previously commented in March. Below I revisit this stock.
Published 1097 days ago
Jim Slater, father of UK Investor Show speaker Mark, is the controversial fellow who created the PEG (Price Earnings Growth) method of investment analysis. Using PEG analysis e has today served up two AIM listed stocks he reckons as buys in today's Daily Telegraph. One of the, as it happens, is a stock Steve Moore and I have tipped on our Nifty Fifty website.
Published 1104 days ago
Investment Case: Noting that a large proportion of its cash looked surplus to what is needed in its ongoing business and for its current growth plans, Prime People plc (PRP) recently returned 15p per share (£1.82 million) to shareholders. This, together with an attractive ordinary dividend, shows a regard for shareholders that few other AIM-listed companies do. This is perhaps because the directors' interests are via their shareholdings to a rare extent aligned with other investors. We tipped this at a 90p offer a couple of weeks ago but at 95p to buy this is still a good share tip and here's why.
Published 1106 days ago
Having consistently warned on the dangers of the valuation of internet media company blinkx plc (BLNX) since April 2013, I previously updated last month following a profits warning which had seen the shares fall from 65.75p to 33.25p. I now return to this stock as it delivers a new product launch announcement today, which has caused the shares to nudge higher, although only to 31.25p (last seen).
Published 1109 days ago
Having announced "preliminary discussions in relation to a possible merger" with Carillion PLC (CLLN) on 25th July, Balfour Beatty (BBY) has now announced that it has terminated the discussions after "Carillion's wholly unexpected decision to only progress the possible merger in the event that (US-headquartered engineering consultancy business) Parsons Brinckerhoff remained part of the potential combined entity". Below I analyse this strange twist of events, after the prospective merger was originally described by the companies as having "the potential to create a market leading services, investments, and construction business of considerable depth and scale"
Published 1111 days ago
Shares in design and engineering consultancy Hyder (HYC) fell more than 38%, to below 400p, in the aftermath of a February warning that "results for the financial year are expected to be materially below current market expectations due to delays in new contract awards in Australia following the election, and project delays in the Middle East". However, a recommended 650p per share cash offer for the company has now been announced. Are there lessons to be learned here?
Published 1113 days ago
We tipped Stanley Gibbons (SGI) at a 225p offer price on the Nifty Fifty and with the shares now at 310p we are – dividends included more than 40% ahead but following yesterday's AGM statement we still see material upside in the shares.
Published 1114 days ago
Early this month Monitise (MONI) served up a dismal profits warning. Delays in revenues were – in true Rob Terry fashion – viewed as being for good reasons but once again this company failed to hit targets. Now we see a weedy non-announcement and an Edison puffery research note all of which are Red Flags. Whatever Monitise says it is running out of cash and a placing is inevitable.
Published 1114 days ago
AIM listed Minera IRL (MIRL) has announced that it has entered into an agreement to sell its remaining stake in the Don Nicolas project in Argentina for $11.5 million. The shares have slipped lower, to 10.75p, on the back of the announcement, but does this represent a buying opportunity?
Published 1114 days ago
Never buy Chinese stocks listed in London is a golden rule of mine. But I broke it last month tipping Hutchison China MediTech (HCM) at an 870p offer. They are now 960p bid after interims yesterday. So why break a golden rule and is there more to come for the shares?
Published 1119 days ago
In the last two years my seven most covered bear selections have been: Gulf Keystone (GKP), Iofina (IOF), Cupid (CUP), Quindell (QPP), Globo (GBO) Avanti(AVN) and Purecircle (PURE). With the exception of Purecircle, the other six are all firm retail favourites and I often wonder what it is that draws the private punter like a flame-bound moth to such eminently shortable stocks. One can highlight various useful themes but all seem to throw up exceptions – modestly I point oiut these have all bar one (so far) been great short calls by my good self.
Published 1121 days ago
Are you serious about making money from shares? Yes? There are three reasons to read on as a matter of some urgency.
Published 1123 days ago
I do not follow Leni Gas & Oil (LGO) but I note that it got the Bulletin Boards buzzing last week. It announced a big acquisition and the next day a placing. This outraged some commentators. I think wrongly.
Published 1126 days ago
Shares in Anglo Asian Mining (AAZ) currently trade 13.5% higher today at 15.75p on the back of an announcement of increased gold and copper production, reduced net debt and confidence, "with our cost saving initiatives such as reductions in cyanide costs and increased processing capacity at Gedabek that our H2 2014 performance will be much stronger". With the shares having been above 25p earlier this year, is there further recovery potential here?
Published 1126 days ago
I identified value in the shares of marketing group Cello (CLL) on this website last year at 54p (see HERE). The following reviews with the shares currently at 92p following an update from the company which includes that "trading for the first six months of 2014 will be well ahead of the same period in 2013 and that it expects to at least meet current full year market expectations".
Published 1127 days ago
I previously updated on this website on Telecom Plus (TEP), which trades as 'the Utility Warehouse' and is the UK's only fully integrated provider of a range of utility services spanning both the communications and energy markets, in April with the shares then at 1780p – concluding that I'd require a lower prospective rating before considering an investment (see HERE). Post a trading statement earlier this week and with the shares currently at 1312p would I buy?.
Published 1128 days ago
I am still almost 75% up on this share tip but 1Spatial (SPA) shares have drifted in line with the tech sector of late and that should be a buying opportunity at 6.75p
Published 1128 days ago
Since my previous update on blur Group (BLUR), the shares have slipped further – to a current 75p. Having at one stage early this year reached almost 800p, some see value at current levels. But is this illusory?
Published 1130 days ago
Previously updating on this website on Restore plc (RST) I concluded that the share price – then 182p - looked to have largely caught up with events after a very strong run in recent years. The following updates my view following a first half year trading update last week.
Published 1131 days ago
Restore (RST) is a share tipped by Tom Winnifrith and Steve Moore at 30p back in 2010. They both still like it and see meaningful upside at a 176p offer. This is not a blow your socks off buy but a solid "sleep soundly" investment to make you market beating returns without worrying. It is a dull and predictable generator of great cashflows…what is wrong with that?
Published 1133 days ago
Ahead of its AGM today, telecommunications and related infrastructure provider Coms plc (COMS) has updated that, as a result of an ongoing process of restructuring following various recent acquisitions, a pre-tax loss is expected for the six months to 31st July 2014, but that underlying "trading across all of the group's business has been encouraging" and that it remains "confident that… the second half of the year will see a significant improvement in profitability". With also a number of boardroom changes announced, the following takes a look at the implications of today's news.
Published 1133 days ago
AIM-listed developer and provider of offerings based on the 'Automatic Identification System' maritime domain awareness technology, Software Radio Technology plc (SRT) has followed recent results and a placing by welcoming "both shareholders and non-shareholders" to attend its AGM and open day on 15th July (an approach in stark contrast to another (still) AIM-listed company - see HERE). The following update looks at the recent news flow.
Published 1136 days ago
OK so I'm a contrarian and as such I am now long blinkx (BLNX). I bought three times on the day of the crash in my mad punting account. (I have this to remind myself of the pain of self-immolation in trading, so I don't lose track of my customers.) I bought at 40p, 33p and 29p averaging out at 34.1p. Basically, this is where it sits right now. I think it is going up.
Published 1139 days ago
Having first noted on this website in May 2013 that shares in Kentz Corp (KENZ), then at 411.5p, looked to offer value and provided frequent updates since – including in March that at 738p the rating continued to look not overly aggressive, the company has now announced a recommended takeover offer of 935p per share in cash. Below is my response to this news.
Published 1139 days ago
An unsatisfactorily managed "strategic alternatives process" (see HERE) has been brought to an end by Elektron Technology plc (EKT), with the company announcing that it has raised £2.34 million through a placing of 46.8 million new shares at 5p each. It plans to raise up to a further £1.16 million by way of an open offer of up to 23.2 million new shares at the same price. However, with results for the year ended 31st January 2014 showing a loss from continuing operations of £5.3 million, year-end net debt of £8 million and reporting that a shareholder is seeking court permission to make a claim "alleging various breaches of duty by the directors, including dishonesty, 'a reckless acquisition spree', illegal share price manipulation and the implementation of unfair bonus and share schemes without proper shareholder approval", is the fundraising going to be enough?
Published 1159 days ago
Investment Case: Majority owned by Hutchison Whampoa, the Hong Kong-listed renowned multinational infrastructure, property, retail and telecommunications conglomerate including the likes of the '3' mobile business, Hutchison China MediTech (HCM) is the holding company of a primarily China-based healthcare and drug development group. This includes growing businesses selling already established products and a drug research & development business which has developed strongly and looks to offer vast upside potential. This combination makes the shares a buy at an 870p offer price.
Published 1162 days ago
I previously wrote on this website about Advanced Computer Software Group (ASW), a provider of software and IT services to the UK health, care and business sectors, in February – suggesting that it was worth continuing to back CEO Vin Murria with the shares then at a 113.5p offer price. With the shares currently at 122p, after recent results and analyst updates, it is time to rexamine this stock.
Published 1163 days ago
Shares in business services marketplace operator in the 'cloud', blur Group plc (BLUR) are currently little changed at around 90p on the back of the results of a fundraising, which saw the company's CEO Philip Letts "delighted by the broad support shown by so many of our shareholders… including members of the board". But should delight also be felt by other shareholders here?
Published 1164 days ago
I tipped this stock on my Nifty Fifty website at a 4p offer in November 2012 and so it has been a good share tip. The stock was trading at c9p before a stock overhang saw a recent sell-off but astute fund manager Hargreave Hale seems to have cleared that and I reckon that the shares will now head North at a fair old rate towards 12p. Here's why.
Published 1164 days ago
I have two very important questions for whoever writes Getech Group's (GTC) RNS announcements. What are you smoking? May I have some please? In what has been a calamitous six months for Getech, it still clings onto its faith in the strength of demand for its services and "high levels of interest and positive feedback on its major product, Globe". Unfortunately for the company and its poor shareholders none of this has translated into sales and the stock has tanked. Today's latest profits warning needs to be read to be believed; talk about making the best of a bad situation!
Published 1165 days ago
If someone promises you a share tipping service based on "exciting" stocks that can gain hundreds or thousands of percent, penny share whizzers or "hidden secrets" they are yanking your chain. There is no such thing as free money where the stockmarket is concerned. Sorry if this sounds boring but successful investors know that you get rich by showing patience, by analysing accounts and by listening to proven experts with all the right contacts. And this is how you start TODAY.
Published 1182 days ago
We continue our new weekly feature of the Shareprophets share tip of the week with AIM listed Plastics Capital (PLA) which is a buy at a 135p offer price with a 12 month target price of 180p.
Published 1183 days ago
Kentz Corp (KENZ) is a company that, with its shares currently at 686p, has performed well for most shareholders. However, recent developments here show that such companies must still listen to what shareholders are telling them or eventually face consequences. The following explains.
Published 1191 days ago
1Spatial (SPA) has announced results for its year ended 31st January 2014 and that it considers that it "is well placed to capitalise on opportunities in the spatial Big Data market and Smart Cities markets". We tipped this stock at a 4p offer price. It is now 7.5p but there is far more to come.
Published 1193 days ago
You probably get loads of promotions telling you about "the one share you must buy" or "how to make 100% a day with this and that trading platform or training course." Of course it is all total rubbish. If only life were that simple? We'd all be as rich as Buffett. The truth is that investing is hard work.
Published 1195 days ago
This is a share tip we are modestly ahead on but there is more to come. Cineworld Group (CINE) has updated us all that trading for the first 18 weeks of its year "has been in line with expectations" and that it "remains confident of delivering a performance for the year as a whole in line with current market expectations".
Published 1225 days ago
Investment Case: Owner, developer and asset manager of branded economy and midscale hotels in the Middle East and Australia, Action Hotels plc (AHCG) has today announced its first set of results as a publicly traded company having joined AIM in December. Reporting like-for-like growth in occupancy of 4% (to 78%) and average daily rate per room of 6% to ($106), that "2014 has started well with occupancy levels remaining strong across the portfolio and encouraging growth in all of our key metrics" and declaring a dividend of 0.96p per share, whilst expecting to follow a progressive dividend policy, the shares are a buy at a 76p current offer price.
Published 1277 days ago
Now the largest film distributer in Canada, the largest independent film distributer in the UK, Spain and the Benelux and a FTSE-250 constituent, Entertainment One (ETO) has updated that "full year earnings are expected to be ahead of management expectations" and that "the directors remain confident in the outlook for the company". However, is this already more than discounted in a share price which, at a current 324.5p, is significantly ahead of the 175p of less than a year ago (when the shares were added to the Growth portfolio of the Nifty Fifty)?
Published 1416 days ago
Recent new FTSE-250 constituent Entertainment One (ETO) has announced that results for its half year ended 30th September 2013 are to be announced on 19th November. Should we look forward to good news and are the shares cheap. Yes and yes.
Published 1480 days ago
Shares in international entertainment content owner, producer and distributor, Entertainment One (ETO) have been written up on this website in April at 184p HERE and May at 191.5p HERE. The following updates, with the shares currently at 205p, following a statement last week on trading so far in the company's year ending 31st March 2014...
Published 1645 days ago
Entertainment One (ETO), the London main market listed producer and distributor of film and television content, has updated that "full year earnings are anticipated to be in line with management's expectations" on underlying revenue up 11% in the 10 month period to end January. The shares have risen from a 13.5p low hit in the depths of the markets 2009 despair to a current 188p. They did however trade above 200p in late 2011/early 2012 and, with a present market cap in excess of £500 million, the following offers my current take here…