Halma, Ted Baker and Crest Nicholson

“The FTSE 100 lost further ground in early trading as the latest EU referendum polls putting the Leave camp ahead, sparking global fears over the impact of an imminent Brexit. Traders are also keeping a wary eye on UK inflation figures which are due later,” says AJ Bell Investment Director Russ Mould.

“Safety, health and environmental technology group Halma beat forecasts after another record year. The share price has its ups and downs but earnings progress has been consistent and Halma has now grown its dividend by at least 5% for the past 37 years. Record revenues and pre-tax profits were both ahead of market forecasts.

“Upmarket fashion retailer Ted Baker remains on track to meet its full-year forecasts with international expansion and a surge in online sales driving growth. Worldwide selling space has increased by 9.7% with the group opening stores in Beijing, Ottawa and Seattle and establishing concessions in department stores in France, Germany and Spain in Europe as well as in China and Japan.

“Housebuilder Crest Nicholson continues to see strong demand for new homes despite reports over the possible effects on house prices should the UK vote to leave the EU. First half pre-tax profits rose by 25% and the group remains on target to hit £1bn of revenue this year. While Crest Nicholson has noted a risk of business disruption if the Leave campaign holds sway, its forward sales are 19% up on a year ago”

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