esure, iomart and Dewhurst

“The FTSE 100 confounded forecasts and opened in positive territory following gains in the US and Asia as traders digested the latest comments from US Federal Reserve chairman Janet Yellen although the impending EU referendum continues to weigh on sentiment,” says AJ Bell Investment Director Russ Mould.

“Insurance group esure was one of the FTSE250’s biggest early risers after launching a strategic review of its price comparison website GoCompare.com.

“The site’s marketing strategy has been reinvigorated since esure took full control of the site 18 months ago and a 20-30% increase in profits is expected this year. Given the site’s positive performance, esure is looking at the strategic opportunities and mulling a potential demerger.

“Cloud-hosting specialist iomart was another early riser after adjusted pre-tax profits came in ahead of forecasts and investors were encouraged by a bullish outlook. The group’s trading in the current financial year is on track and long term opportunities look bigger than ever. iomart has invested in staff, skillsets and industry relationships and is targeting further significant growth.

“Dewhurst's shares were down in early trading after first half sales and profits fell in challenging market conditions. First quarter performance was particularly weak and while sales did recover in the second quarter, confidence remains fragile.”

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