Expert views
Commentary submitted by Russ Mould in their own words.
Back to profileWPP axes jobs in cost-cutting efforts to drive profit recovery
Like her predecessor Mark Read, Rose is looking to streamline a business which has more moving parts than Big Ben.
Persimmon improves completion guidance despite ‘challenging’ housing market
The need to have a cash buffer to withstand these pressures explains the decision to keep the dividend on hold.
Next lifts profit outlook again after overseas and summer sales surge
Yet another better-than-expected update and round of upgrades helped lift the shares to within sight of their recent all-time highs.
Domino’s delivered an extra 45,000 orders on England vs DR Congo matchday
Frampton and Andrea will not be resting on their laurels, particularly with the market backdrop looking unhelpful.
Metro Bank profits jump as growing branch network brings ‘competitive advantage’
Under CEO Dan Frumkin the strategy has focused on bucking an industry trend for branch closures.
A premium performance from Palantir
Palantir has shot the lights out with its second-quarter earnings and prompted a surge in the shares in pre-market trading.
HSBC chief says ‘UK growth needs strong banks’ after profits swell by 23%
Buybacks are back on the menu at HSBC.
BP profits soar to four-year high after boost from Iran war
It has not been an easy start to life at BP for recently appointed CEO Meg O’Neill thanks to the acrimonious departure of chair Albert Manifold just weeks into her tenure. However, in just the second set of quarterly numbers under her leadership the company has posted its highest quarterly profit since 2022.
AstraZeneca in talks over £300bn mega-merger with US rival – reports
Assuming it went through, AstraZeneca would likely overtake HSBC to become comfortably the largest company on the FTSE 100.
Sainsbury’s sells Argos to Swift Partners retail specialists
Argos’ weak and inconsistent sales have been an impediment to the business and the price agreed with Swift Partners reflects that.
NatWest profits up by a fifth after AI-led tech drive and wealth focus
Life as a fully privatised entity continues to suit NatWest.
BA parent company IAG suffers 35% drop in profits after fuel cost hit
The turbulence from the Iran conflict has undoubtedly clipped the wings of British Airways owner International Consolidated Airlines as the company ditches any plans for growth this year.