Archived article
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The following stocks are the leading risers and fallers among London Main Market small-caps on Thursday.
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SMALL-CAP - WINNERS
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Secure Trust Bank PLC, up 8.6% at 1.195.00 pence, 12-month range 331.00p-1,200.00p. The specialist bank reports improved half-year earnings and raises its dividend. Pretax profit in the six months to June 30 rises 30% to £22.3 million from £17.1 million. Operating income is up 11% to £106.3 million from £96.1 million, with net interest income up 12% alone year-on-year to £99.0 million.
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Defence Holdings PLC, up 8.1% at 0.43p, 12-month range 0.14p-0.95p. The defence technology firm signs an agreement with Whitespace, which specialises in artificial intelligence infrastructure for defence and national security. The duo will work on the development and deployment of software capabilities ‘across UK and allied defence environments’. ‘As the global defence sector shifts from hardware-led to software-first, demand is growing for deployable AI solutions that meet military-grade standards of trust, auditability, and resilience. Traditional contractors are struggling to adapt fast enough, creating space for sovereign, software-native players,’ Defence says. ‘The strategic partnership will combine Defence Holdings’ domain expertise with Whitespace’s proven infrastructure to accelerate delivery of next-generation defence applications.’
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SMALL-CAP - LOSERS
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Reach PLC, down 4.7% at 69.10p, 12-month range 63.10p-108.13p. Shares in the newspaper fall as it goes ex-dividend, meaning new buyers do not qualify for the latest payout.
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