Previously writing on “B2B video streaming solutions company” Aferian (AFRN), in March with the shares falling below 30p I wrote “financial position remains robust”. Really?!, as shares slump again – concluding that I hope my prior warning was heeded and certainly continue to avoid/sell. Now, with the shares just above 17p, an “Additional funding secured and trading update” announcement from the company.

Previously writing on ‘digital transformation consultancy’ Kin and Carta (KCT), in February with the shares down to 130p I questioned a trading update – noting “backlog” and “pipeline” are only useful if they’re being converted and concluding to Avoid. What now of “a trading update covering the year ending 31 July 2023”?

Previously writing on company describing itself as a “leading supplier of composite material kits to aerospace and other high-performance manufacturers” Velocity Composites (VEL), in January with the shares down to 60p I concluded still much to do to deliver and with also its financial situation I avoided. What then now with the shares currently at 42p on the back of a trading update, though that up from a sub 40p prior close?

Previously writing on landscape, building and roofing products manufacturer and supplier Marshalls (MSLH), in March with the shares slightly further falling from close to 300p I warned suggesting underlying earnings heading lower this year and the macroeconomic outlook concerning for assumed progressive improvement in the end markets. So what of today a trading statement… and the shares currently lower towards 270p?

Last week I noted on automotive interior components group CT Automotive (CTA) a vastly discounted bailout equity raise following prior profit warning and despite an AIM IPO at 147p per share as recently as December 2021. The shares had since nudged up to 40p, but are currently approaching 9% lower today, at 36.5p, on the back of an “Update on FY22 preliminary results” announcement.

I mentioned on Monday that I would be all over the Q1 trading update from Haleon (HLN), the business which was spin-off from GSK (GSK) in July last year, and here we are. The company describes it as a “strong start to the year demonstrating continued strength of portfolio”, whilst the market has pulled the shares back 3% today to a price just north of 340p. Who is correct?

Previously writing on digital location and identity verification and fraud software group GB (GBG), in February with the shares down to 336p I concluded that the growth/valuation position meant I continued to avoid. The shares most recently closed at 281.6p, but are currently back up above 300p on the back of a “Pre-close trading update”, so what’s the situation now?

Previously writing on company now describing itself as “a preferred and trusted partner of global customers, providing high-precision critical components to the life sciences, aerospace, optics, and technology industries”, Carclo (CAR) in December with the shares down to 11.5p I noted ‘profit warning and banking covenants ‘discussions’ (as warned here)… continue to avoid’. The shares last closed at 12.475p but are currently down to 11p on the back of a “trading statement”.

After a few quiet days over Easter, the UK market has a bunch of interesting larger cap updates this morning. I was positive on Tesco (TSCO) shares when they fell below a 200p level during the market excitement of early October. And, despite a share price rising over 20% over the following few months, earlier this year I concluded that they remained at least a strong hold for mainstream investors. However, as I write, the shares are back above a 270p price, which raises the question whether Tesco shares are still a strong hold or not?

Previously writing on cinemas group Everyman Media (EMAN), in January with the shares up to 90.5p I questioned how ‘pleasing’ a trading update was and concluded to avoid. The group has now announced results for its year ended 29th December 2022, including “pleased to report that 2022 was a positive year for the business, with financial performance ahead of management's initial expectations”. So what of a current below 65p share price – down further on the results announcement?

Previously writing on tools and equipment hire and complementary services company Speedy Hire (SDY), in February despite the shares down to around 39p and it stating that it “continues to perform well” I concluded that the macroeconomic and asset situations still made me cautious. So what now of a “Year End Trading Update”…and the shares currently further lower at 31.35p?

Previously writing on printed circuit technology products manufacturer Trackwise Designs (TWD), in January I noted its 1p per share equity raise and concluded that its still-remaining financial challenge meant it remains that hopefully my prior warnings were heeded; avoid/sell. Today a “Contract and Trading Update” announcement…and the shares are currently more than 40% lower at 0.65p, so what’s the situation now?

The FY22 numbers from Wood Group (WG.) today had good, less good and “we are currently in an offer period” uncertainty angles. On the latter point, it cannot comment further on the surprise Apollo bid approach last month. I am not smart enough to predict bid outcomes, but what I do observe is that if you hold Wood Group shares it is all about the turnaround plan its capital markets day five months ago excited me so much about. And on that basis, the newish CEO and the old school CFO are doing a good job.

Previously writing on packaging and automation group Mpac (MPAC), in January I retained caution despite it arguing ‘in line with expectations and encouraging outlook’ and the shares responding up by more than 10% to 282.5p. The shares most recently closed at 280p and now results for the 2022 calendar year.

Previously writing on group which describes itself as “a leading UK provider of Managed IT services and communications solutions to private and public sector organisations”, CloudCoCo (CLCO) with its shares up to 1.325p I noted argues “strong strategic and commercial progress”…but if EBITDA is bullshit earnings, what is “Trading EBITDA”?!. The group now states that it “is pleased announce its full year results for the year ended 30 September 2022”, so what of a now 1.25p share price?

Previously writing on Gym Group (GYM), in November with the shares falling from 123.6p I questioned it stating its “offer will be even more compelling and attractive” and concluded to continue to avoid. So what of the shares currently falling below 100p on the back of a full-year results announcement?

Previously writing on landscape, building and roofing products manufacturer and supplier Marshalls (MSLH), in January with the shares around 325p I concluded that outlook uncertainty saw me continue to avoid. The shares most recently closed at just below 300p and are currently slightly further lower on the back of calendar year 2022 results.

Previously writing on energy and water systems company Eneraqua Technologies (ETP), in October with the shares up to 300p I concluded ‘it’s material net cash generation I’ll continue to monitor for here and currently Avoid’. The shares most recently closed at 350p but are currently heading back towards 300p on the back of a “Year End Trading Update”.

Back in August last year, I wrote that “I remain a fan of SIG plc (SHI) (just improve the balance sheet a bit more, please!)”. Shares in the supplier of insulation, roofing, commercial interiors and specialist construction products are, despite a bit of current market volatility, still above the level of then (which is good), but do I still think both that they are cheap and that it would be very smart of the company to improve the balance sheet?

Previously writing on digital location, identity verification and fraud software group GB (GBG), last year with the shares falling towards 400p I questioned its stated excitement about sustainable growth opportunities and its ability to capitalise on them. The shares last closed at 344.2p and what of they currently further lower on the back of a “trading update”?

Previously writing on company describing itself as “a leading supplier of specialist connection systems to the automotive sector” Strip Tinning (STG), in September with the shares rising to 75p I noted negative occurrences despite it only having listed that February and continued to avoid. The shares last closed at 65p and what of them now at 55p on the back of a “Pre-Close Trading Update”?

Previously writing on surface coating technology company Hardide (HDD), in September with the shares at 19p I concluded including that it will be interesting to see the full-year results and balance sheet detail, but they clearly aren’t going to be good. The company has now announced the results, stating that it “is pleased to report” them and that “the new financial year has started well, with revenues in the first quarter ahead of those in the same period last year”. So what of a now 13.5p share price?

Previously writing on sports, leisure and mobility equipment group Tandem (TND), in September with the shares down to 285p I concluded that with the trading headwinds and cash flow movements I continued to avoid. What now with the shares at 262.5p on the back of a trading update?

Previously writing on TPXimpact (TPX), in October with the shares at 32.5p I noted director share purchases to try to reassure the market rather than of real conviction?, following that this ‘digital transformation’ provider struggling with its own transformation!. The shares had recovered to last close at 46p, but now a “Q3 Trading Update”.

Previously writing on branded clothing, accessories and footwear company Superdry (SDRY), a year ago with the shares down to around 230p I questioned its argued “clear signs of brand and financial recovery” and continued to avoid – considering you’d really have to be a firm believer in returned CEO Julian Dunkerton’s recovery plans to buy at that juncture. With the shares having last closed at 149.2p, what of now results for the company’s half-year ended 29th October 2022 and trading since?

A couple of weeks ago I concluded that “Chocolate is a sweet treat but you still cannot say the same for Hotel Chocolat (HOTC) shares” HERE. Despite a big share price fall in 2022, the then c. two quid share price, after an early January hope romp, seemed bonkers to me. It is just over 220p now as, apparently, it had a great Christmas trading session.

Previously writing on footwear brand Dr. Martens (DOCS), in November with the shares slumping to 222p I questioned of its CEO who do you think you are kidding Mr Wilson, if you think the performance is ‘pleasing’? – concluding with another 2021 IPO Roll-Call of Shame and that the shares still looked overvalued. They last closed at 209.2p… and today a “trading statement”.

Previously writing on Revolution Bars Group (RBG), in October with the shares falling below 11p I concluded that I could understand why – with it’s admitted challenging trading environment and I questioning an argued “exciting and transformative” acquisition. The shares last closed at 7.4p and today an “H1 Trading Update”.

Previously writing on currently Hotter Shoes brand 55+ demographic footwear group Unbound (UBG), in August with the shares at 14.75p I noted, following an equity raise it stated would see it “focus on accelerating our growth strategy”, that following the prior misleading market expectations, I remained highly sceptical. Having last closed at 6.75p, today a “Trading Update and Operating Review”.

Previously writing on LED lighting for industrial applications company Dialight (DIA), in November with the shares at 305p I concluded including that there can be no great confidence in expectations for the full year remaining unchanged. On 14th December the company announced that Chair Karen Oliver was to “step down” at the end of the month but that its “trading expectations for the year ending 31 December 2022 remain unchanged”. So what of the shares currently down more than 16% today at 266p on the back of a “trading statement”?

Previously writing on models and collectibles company Hornby (HRN), in April with the shares up to 34.5p I continued to avoid noting it looks to remain that the valuation demands some strong growth in profitability. The shares last closed at 29p and are currently further down to 24p, so what about a latest “trading statement”?

Previously writing on Gama Aviation (GMAA), in August with the shares at 56.5p I questioned it “progressing towards securing the new credit facilities required”. The shares last closed at 61.5p but are currently heading down towards the previously noted level on the back of an “H2 Trading Update, Liquidity & Credit Facilities” announcement.

Previously writing on company describing itself as “a global provider of value-adding engineered solutions for the medical, optical and aerospace industries”, Carclo (CAR) last week with the shares down to 13p I noted it stating it “evaluating the financial impact and taking mitigating actions” following a contract cancellation, but how many mitigating actions can it take?!. Now a further “trading update”.

Previously writing on service provider to the asset management industry specialising in private markets MJ Hudson Group (MJH), in October with the shares down to 16.5p I noted “audit adjustments” – including aren’t IT development, M&A and fundraising quite usual activities for an attempted growth business?, and that it will be interesting to see how net debt compares to £15.7 million house broker Cenkos had been forecasting. The shares last closed at 13.125p… and today “Company update and suspension of trading”!

Previously writing on Time Out Group (TMO), in August I noted short-term loan facility, how’s that balance sheet set then?. Today the “global media and hospitality business” has announced results for its year ended 30th June 2022, headlined “Positioned for further profitable growth and back on pre-pandemic trajectory”. Is it?

Previously writing on Vianet Group (VNET), I concluded I wait for improvement in cash flow and outlook before reconsidering from avoid. So what of now results for its half-year ended 30th September 2022?

Previously writing on personal care, beauty and fragrance products company Creightons (CRL), in July with the shares around 40p on the back of full-year results I concluded that with it more than half way through the current half year I suggest it means those supply chain and inflationary pressures continuing to reduce earnings and, therefore, at this juncture still just on my watchlist. Now we have the half-year results... and the shares have currently responded more than 20% further lower to around 30p.

Kettle safety controls and other water temperature components group Strix (KETL) commences an announcement today that it “is pleased to announce… completed the acquisition of Billi” and also includes that it “continues to maintain its strong market share position in Kettle Controls and is outperforming the market in the Appliance and Water categories. In addition, Strix has a strong balance sheet”. So what of a current share price response to 78p...more than 37% down!?

RM plc (RM.) has announced “Proposed sale of the RM Integris and RM Finance Business”, emphasising “continuation of RM's transformation strategy” and helping the shares currently higher to 45p, a £37.7 million market capitalisation. So what’s the latest detail here?

Back in July, I observed that “it is going to get busy, but Brickability (BRCK) is just one for the experts (even for brick and clay fans like me)” HERE. And since then, the stock has gone up and down a bit but is basically little changed. Are there any excitements then in its announcement today of results for the six months ended 30 September 2022?

Vianet Group (VNET) has announced a partnership which it states sees its “innovative contactless payment solution hardware join forces with Suresite's market-leading acquiring services”, with Chairman & CEO (hmmm) James Dickson “delighted to partner with Suresite in this innovative collaboration proving, once again, Vianet's ability not only to drive new technological initiatives but also to establish new markets for our products”. So what of a share price currently up to 56.75p in response?

Managed IT services, cyber security and cloud hosting company SysGroup (SYS) has announced results for its half-year ended 30^th September 2022 and that “trading for the second half has continued with positive momentum and the board is therefore confident in meeting its full year expectations”. So what’s the detail here?

Footwear brand Dr. Martens (DOCS) CEO Kenny Wilson reckons that he is “pleased to report another strong set of results… Underlying revenue growth was 18% and the EBITDA margin was in line with our guidance”. So why are the shares currently 22.5% lower on the back of the results announcement to 222p?

Describing itself as a “global leader in LED lighting for heavy industrial applications”, Dialight (DIA) has issued a trading statement commencing that it “has seen positive overall trading momentum continue into the second half, with group revenue in the period up 35% (CCY 23%) over the prior year comparator”. That sounds good, but revenue is, of course, vanity – what’s the bottom-line situation?

In March this year Everyman Media Group (EMAN) was “pleased to announce the appointment of Jeremy Summerfield to the board as Chief Financial Officer, on or before 1 July”. Towards the end of June though it announced that he “will no longer be joining” and promoted finance director who joined in early May, Will Worsdell. Now it has announced Executive Chairman Paul Wise is “to step down from the board to pursue other interests”. So what’s the overall situation here?

Imperial Brands (IMB) has announced results for its year ended 30^th September 2022 and that it is “well placed to build on our track record of delivery over the next three years, improving returns and creating sustainable growth in shareholder value”.

Describing itself as “a leading developer of radiation and bio-detection technology solutions for the advanced imaging and CBRN detection segments”, Kromek Group (KMK) has announced “Award of £5m bio-threat contract by UK Government”. It emphasises that it is “delighted to have been awarded this contract… Governments throughout the world are reviewing their strategies to update their defence against such threats. We believe technologies that can provide information about emerging threats in near real time will be a critical component of such strategies”, but what of a share price currently above 9p in response, approaching 12% higher?

Cleaning and hygiene products private label and contract manufacturer McBride (MCB) has issued an AGM trading update headlined “Trading in line with our expectations” and including that “the cost of most raw material groups is steadying”. Good news from a current 25p share price?

Writing on paper products and materials company James Cropper (CRPR) last month with the shares down to 850p I concluded that at least ahead of some bottom-line evidence of the argued significant growth prospects, still avoid / sell. The shares last closed at 915p, but are currently down to 845p on the back of half-year results.

Here we are with the year to the end of September full set of numbers from Imperial Brands (IMB). Last month I observed it was going to be a big moment for me as the company’s share price is kicking around my twenty quid target price. And all of this has been augmented by the company also paying an excellent dividend since I got super-excited about the stock about a couple of years ago. All kind of interesting for a lifelong non-smoker like me.

Online musical instruments and music equipment retailer Gear4music (G4M) has announced results for its half-year ended 30th September 2022 and that “trading in October and November to date gives the board further confidence that results for the financial year will be in line with the recently updated consensus market expectations”. So what of a current just above 100p share price?

Shares in Tesco (TSCO) were above 270p as recently as August but have fallen back significantly as it faces clear macro challenges. However, it has a long track-record across economic conditions and we consider the share price fall has been too extreme.

Electronics for specialist and harsh environments company Solid State (SOLI) has announced a “£7.3m Defence Contract with NATO”, with divisional MD Matthew Richards emphasising “it is pleasing to be announcing this award with such a significant client”. So what of the shares currently further up to 1270p?

A new week, a new suspension, as Joules Group (JOUL), the “true premium lifestyle brand with an authentic heritage”, announced an “Intention to Appoint Administrators and Suspension of Trading in Shares". Is it a huge surprise? Not really (and you can see now why Next plc (NXT) decided not to take a stake a few months ago). Meanwhile, and back to shares I do actually own, I see that Wood Group (WG.) is handing out $115 million in a “Settlement of Enterprise litigation case”. But the shares are only down 1% or so today.

BP (BP.) has announced third quarter results emphasising “net debt fell for the tenth successive quarter; we are investing with discipline; and we are delivering on our commitment to shareholder distributions - announcing a further $2.5 billion share buyback”. So what of a now slightly further higher 486.45p share price?

UK hospitality business comprising cocktail-led bar and restaurant brand '63rd+1st', fast casual dining brand 'Fridays and Go' and American-themed 'Fridays', Hostmore (MORE) has announced “a major new marketing campaign for its Fridays brand”, emphasising “in an environment where consumers are putting more thought into where they spend their money, we recognise the importance of elevating our positioning”. Really?

Previously writing on Gym Group (GYM), last year with the shares around 282p I concluded that it looked to need to deliver very impressively to justify the valuation. The shares last closed at 123.6p and are further down today on the back of a “trading update”, so what’s going on now?

Pretentiously describing itself as “the premium British lifestyle group”, Joules (JOUL) has issued a “Business Update” commencing that it “has made good progress in defining and delivering its turnaround plan as well as continuing its focus on cost control and cash management” and including “active customers are in growth, and brand health and awareness KPIs, which reflect consumer perception of the brand, have remained strong”. So why are the shares currently further down more than 23% today at 10.5p?

Previously writing on castings and engineering company Chamberlin (CMH), in May with the shares up towards 5p I questioned whether a “pleased to announce” property sale and leaseback was actually for “growth strategies”. With the shares last closing at 4.4p, what of now full-year results and a current 4.5p share price, £4.8 million market cap?

SysGroup (SYS) recently issued a trading update stating that it “is pleased to report a strong trading performance, despite the challenging macro-economic environment”. With the shares having fallen from approaching 50p last year to a 24p offer price, such a trading performance suggests a lowly valuation and strong recovery potential.

This company is somewhat bigger than the ones we usually cover, but it struck us as a relatively low risk trading buy and, although already well up from a below 300p tip price at approaching 350p, there looks some more to go. This follows a recent trading update from easyJet (EZJ) having emphasised continuing demand for its leading network alongside “step-changed” ancillary revenue and the rapid and profitable growth of the easyJet holidays business. The shares responded positively, but were above 400p as recently as August and above 700p earlier this year and, despite some clear challenges, we suggest that there is further recovery potential from here as we look to 29^th November-scheduled results and beyond.

It is not over-egging the pudding to describe today’s interim 2022/23 numbers from BT Group (BT.A) as boring. After all, you do not need to be a financial genius to see its year-on-year adjusted revenue to be up by 1% and its adjusted EBITDA number to be up a massive 2%. And we have not even started to appraise whether the “adjusted” nature of the numbers had boosted them materially or not. However, there are other numbers of far more significance for BT Group and its, down c.6% as I write, share price.

Previously writing on sustainable wood company Accsys Technologies (AXS), in September with the shares at 78p I concluded that the latest update suggests operational and financial troubles remain and I certainly currently avoided. So what of now an “Update on Tricoya - Consortium restructure”-titled announcement?

Paper products and materials company James Cropper (CRPR) has issued a “Half Year Trading Update” including that revenues “were up on the prior year (H1 2021) by 26%… Order books are full and the company is focused on a range of enabling actions to build a solid foundation for continued future growth”. So why are the shares currently at 850p, down more than 14.5%?

‘Eyewear and lens’ design and manufacturing group Inspecs (SPEC) commences a trading update with that “On a constant currency basis, the group has seen sales growth across Europe, UK and the US… as well as in the group's manufacturing businesses in Vietnam and China” and also argues that it “continues to increase its market share”. So why are the shares currently down to 52.5p on the announcement?, a more than 50% fall!

UK provider of IT and communications services to businesses and public sector organisations, CloudCoCo Group (CLCO) states that it “is pleased to provide an update on its progress for the year ended 30 September 2022”... and the shares have currently responded approaching 40% higher to 1.325p. So how well is its trading going?

Previously writing on Coppa Club, Tavolino and Noci brands company Various Eateries (VARE), in June with the shares at 48.5p and noting increasingly severe inflation and cost of living pressures and house broker WH Ireland forecasting a swing to a net debt position this year, I concluded to avoid. So what of now a trading update for its year ended 2nd October 2022?

Energy and water systems company Eneraqua Technologies (ETP) has announced contract wins “taking cover for its FYJan24 revenue target to 85% (from prior 72%). The order book continues to provide full revenue cover for the FYJan23 revenue target”. What of a current 14.5% higher share price to 300p in response?

Trackwise Designs (TWD) has announced a “New Agreement with UK EV OEM” and the shares have currently more than doubled to above 17p, so what’s the detail?

Previously writing on online musical instruments and music equipment retailer Gear4music (G4M), early this year I concluded bearishly with the shares just below 700p. They last closed at 107p, but are currently more than 5% higher today on the back of a half-year trading update – so what’s the situation now?

Previously writing on wiring accessories, EV chargers, LED lighting and portable power products company Luceco (LUCE), in July with the shares at 111.4p I noted that the macroeconomic outlook could well result in further impacted demand rates and concluded continue to avoid. With the shares having last closed at 74p, what of now a “Q3 2022 Trading Update”?

Previously writing on bars operator Revolution Bars Group (RBG), in August with the shares up to 15p I noted “pleased to announce” update, but how’s the net cash generation?. Now results for its year ended 2nd July 2022 and an acquisition.

Kromek Group (KMK) states that it is “delighted that our CZT detectors have been integrated into Spectrum Dynamics' VERITON-CT 400 SPECT/CT systems… the world's first digital SPECT/CT scanner for higher energy imaging”. So what of the shares currently up approaching 6% to 8.35p?

Service provider to the asset management industry specialising in private markets, MJ Hudson Group (MJH) has announced expected “audit adjustments”, though also that those “are all non-cash in nature and do not have an impact on the operating performance of the group in the current year… Current trading in FY 23 is encouraging”. So what of a currently approaching 30% lower share price to 16.5p?

In August, writing on provider of technology and services to the education sector RM plc (RM.) I argued its stated “revenue momentum” was not so “encouraging” and, with the shares down to 65p, Bargepole. Now a further trading update.

Previously writing on Lounge and Cosy Club cafe/bar/restaurants company Loungers (LGRS), in summer last year with the shares at 277.5p I concluded that the valuation and sustainable demand uncertainty meant at best only on the watchlist. The shares are currently at 206p, though what of they being up today on the back of a “continues to thrive” trading update?

Natural extracts and ingredients for the beverage, flavour and fragrance industries company Treatt (TET) has issued a trading update including noting full-year “revenue growth of c.13% (9% in constant currency) in line with market expectations. Progressive dividend policy unchanged… enters the new financial year with confidence in Treatt's proposition and its ability to deliver top line growth, supported by positive market dynamics”. The shares have currently responded up to 560p...but that compares to above 800p as recently as August?

Energy and water systems company Eneraqua Technologies (ETP) states that it “is pleased to announce its interim results for the six months ended 31 July 2022”...and the shares have currently responded approaching 14% higher in response to the announcement to 262p. So what’s the news?

Imperial Brands (IMB) has announced year ended 30^th September 2022 “trading in line with expectations with growth in aggregate market share for top-five priority markets” and that a strengthened balance sheet and achievement of target leverage are to enable the immediate start of an ongoing share buyback programme. The shares have responded positively, up to 1940p, so what’s the detail?

Previously writing on acoustic and thermal insulation group Autins (AUTG), in June with the shares down to 14.5p I concluded it looks like that not much cash for long will be available for growth ‘positioning’ and still avoid / sell. The shares last closed at 14p but are currently falling below 10p on the back of a “trading update”.

Describing itself as “the UK's leading manufacturer of superior natural stone and innovative concrete hard landscaping products” Marshalls (MSLH) has issued a trading statement commencing that “Group revenue for the nine months ended 30 September 2022 was £544 million (2021: £453 million)” and also including “a particularly strong performance from the Bricks & Masonry business… Marley (pitched roofing)… grew in the third quarter… the group's balance sheet continues to be robust”. So what of a current circa 250p share price, down more than 17%?!

Writing on LoopUp Group (LOOP) early this month with the shares up to 9p I concluded the current financial profile still suggests at this juncture avoid / sell... And at 6:18pm last night a “Proposed Capital Raising” announcement.

Iodine and specialty chemical products producer Iofina (IOF) has announced results for the first half of 2022 and that market demand for raw iodine and its speciality products remains strong.

As undoubtedly many of you know, a saga is ‘a long story of heroic achievement, especially a medieval prose narrative in Old Norse or Old Icelandic’. Meanwhile in the UK financial world, in my opinion there is an ongoing saga at Saga plc (SAGA), a company which may describe itself as “a British company focused on serving the needs of those aged 50 and over” and hence sound very relevant, but which has had even a peer shocking 95% share price fall over the last five years. So why has its first half numbers today pulled the stock down over 15% this morning to what looks like a new share price low?

Technology managed services business AdEPT Technology Group (ADT) has issued an AGM trading statement, including noting a return to interim dividend payments with a 2.5p per share payout announced.

Previously writing on Brighton Palace pier, Lightwater Valley adventure park, mini-golf and bars business Brighton Pier Group (PIER), last year with the shares at 62.5p I questioned short-term or sustainable strong recovery from blundering Boris impact?. So what is the view now after results for its year ended 26th June 2022?

Hello Share Collectors. Tullow Oil (TLW) has been a disappointing investment for me. Soon after buying, many years ago now, the share price rose by four times. But it fell regularly after that and I’m now sitting on a 60% loss. However, with the current high price of oil I may now make that up.

Wood Group (WG.) has announced its results for the first half of 2022 and that it expects an improved performance in the second half, including being helped by an improvement in its Turbines joint ventures.

Essentra (ESNT) has announced results for the first half of 2022 and that it “continue to see strength in our order book, providing encouragement as we move into the second half”.

Previously writing on sports, leisure and mobility equipment group Tandem (TND), in June with the shares down to 250p I concluded that the trading headwinds meant I avoided. The shares last closed at 300p but are currently falling again on the back of half-year results.

Homewares group Portmeirion (PMP) states that it “is pleased to announce its results for the six months ended 30 June 2022” and “sales are now 30% above pre-pandemic 2019 levels as we continue to successfully expand our customer base through developing online channels, new product and new geographies”. So what of a current share price down to 350p?

Whilst Trackwise Designs (TWD) describes itself as “a leading manufacturer of specialist products using printed circuit technology”, I noted in July with the shares at 36p what about the going concern uncertainties?!. Now a “UK EV OEM contract update”-titled announcement... and the shares currently down to 11.5p!

Previously writing on marine service provider James Fisher & Sons (FSJ), in March with the shares falling below 390p I noted suggested further near-term difficulty. The shares last closed at 305p and are currently falling below 300p on the back of half-year results.

IQE plc (IQE) has announced results for the first half of 2022, arguing “the business has demonstrated resilience” and “strong progress” against its strategic transformation goals. Really?

A “Board changes, strategic review & trading update” announcement from “housebuilder, partnership housing developer and regeneration specialist focused on the South and South East of England” Inland Homes (INL) includes that “CEO, Stephen Wicks is to retire” but also that it is “confident… will make good progress in the coming year”. So what of a current below 19p share price, down more than 30%?!

A “Material Contract Win; Business and Trading Update” announcement from LoopUp Group (LOOP) which emphasises a “Meetings: new material contract win expected to generate c.£10 million of revenue and c.£5 million of net cash in the 12 months from October 2022 to September 2023”. But isn’t the group supposed to be ‘transitioning’ from Meetings to 'Hybrid Communications' technology?

Packaging group Macfarlane (MACF) has announced results for the first half of 2022 and that it expects to deliver another year of profit growth.

Almost exactly a year ago, I asked myself “I historically mucked it up on Bunzl (BNZL), so what do I think now?”. I concluded back then that it was a worthy business, which had grown its revenue, profit and cash flow over time but I passed on buying the shares as I was fired up by a bunch of different sectors and corporate names. Though, despite the stock falling about 4% this morning, it is still up over 10% during the last year. So should I be more boring and buy the stock?

Hello Share Speakers. This old punter continues to think the Footsie will dive soon. Keeping it static at the moment is the optimistic hope that the world will avoid a recession. But inflation is so rampant these days, that that rosy prospect is thinning. Never mind, there are still some companies that look defensive enough to be worth a look at. Like this one, for instance.

Previously writing on group which describes itself as “a leading developer of radiation and bio-detection technology solutions for the advanced imaging and CBRN detection segments” Kromek (KMK), last month I noted a new distribution agreement but asked what about financials?, and concluded continue to avoid. Now it “is pleased to announce that it has completed a fundraising of £1.14 million through the issue of convertible loan notes”.

RM plc (RM.), “a leading supplier of technology and resources to the education sector”, has announced results for its half-year ended 31st May 2022 and that it “is starting to build encouraging revenue momentum across the group which demonstrates the strength of our offer and market positioning”. So what of a share price currently of 65p, down more than 34% in response?!

Just under three months ago, I observed that “Wood Group (WG.) won’t re-join the FTSE 100, but that’s not the forward story…” and talked about the opportunities and challenges of “one of the world’s leading consulting and engineering companies operating across Energy and the Built Environment”. And is the new CEO working on a positive surprise, as I hoped a quarter or so ago, too?

We all know that the macroeconomic backdrop will be somewhat different during the 2020s than what we saw in the 2010s. I am sure it will worry some investors, but maybe one advantage of being a bit old is that you have seen plenty of stuff and you don’t need to read too many history books to find truly tricky times. As for your pension fund and related, it is always how you react to challenges that really matters. The same is true for a company. So, kind of interesting to see the comments from Joules Group (JOUL) this morning.

Whilst shares in AO World (AO.) are currently up nearly 10% today as I write, the apparently “leading online electrical retailer” continues not to make an operating profit and has fallen into (admittedly slight) net debt, since corrected by a placing, I have not been a fan of this name for years and years, most recently back in early June when the stock looked a clear avoid at its then 72p share price. Despite today’s share price rise, it is now at a c. 45p share price level and still an Avoid for me. And talking about shares I have avoided for many years, how are those of Rank Group (RNK) getting along?

Previously writing on consulting, software and technologies group TP (TPG), in June with the shares down to 1.25p I noted worsening confidence and results delay. The shares last closed at 1.875p, but are currently back below 1.5p following the delayed 2021 results announcement.

I called Flutter Entertainment (FLTR) an avoid just before Christmas last year and I guess, as year-to-date it is down over 12%, it has been better not to own shares in the company you and I used to know as “Paddy Power”. But as I write today the stock is up over 8% after announcing its first half numbers. Time to bet on a betting company?

Unbound Group (UBG) states that it “is pleased to announce all resolutions put to shareholders at the General Meeting held earlier today in connection with the fundraising and share capital reorganisation were duly passed” and that it “would like to thank shareholders for their support of the fundraising and take the opportunity to welcome new investors onto the register. Now, with the fundraising approved, we will focus on accelerating our growth strategy in a controlled fashion”. So what’s the detail?

Gold producer in the Philippines, Metals Exploration (MTL) has issued a second quarter update including that it “is well positioned for a strong second half of 2022 as the grade in the mine improves once the higher grade ore in Stage 3 is accessed”.

Back in mid-January I wrote that I was going to buy some more shares in SIG plc (SHI), “a British-based international supplier of insulation, roofing, commercial interiors and specialist construction products”. Back then the stock was about 40p and today it is just above 35p. What do I now think after today’s first half numbers?

BP (BP.) has announced second quarter and half-year results including a second quarter attributable profit of $9.26 billion and 10% increased dividend per share to $0.06006 and outlook confidence with ongoing supply disruptions in the industry and a relative lack of inventories.

Describing itself as “the global leader in sustainable LED lighting for industrial applications”, Dialight (DIA) has announced half-year results emphasising “revenue growth of 27% at constant currency over the prior period comparator… profit doubling to £3.1m… order book, 4% ahead of last year and marginally ahead of December 2021”. So what of a share price currently up to 295p?

Seraphine Group (BUMP) has announced results for its year ended 3rd April 2022 including that it “has continued to follow its purpose to be 'with mums for the journey', providing fashionable, affordable, sustainable and innovative clothing and products for expectant women and parents… Our innovative product range, international reach and strong underlying economics put us in a robust position to focus on returning the business to profitable growth”. So what of a current 27p share price?

Previously writing on engineering and technical recruitment group RTC (RTC), in March with the shares down to below 30p I concluded the financials including cash burn and near term difficulties meant I certainly continued to avoid. So what now with “pleased to announce” results for the first half of 2022 and the shares at 21.5p?

Describing itself as “a leading provider of specialist products using printed circuit technology”, Trackwise Designs (TWD) states it “is pleased to announce its preliminary results for the year ended 31 December 2021 and to provide an update on trading for the six months ended 30 June 2022”. So why have the shares currently responded to 36p, more than 19% lower?!

Just under a week ago I wrote about how boring BT Group (BT.A) shares are. However, whilst I was right to buy a bunch of the shares a couple of years ago, when the share price has moved very close to my two quid share price target I have failed to book my profit and run. But what has gone, has gone and what am I going to do with the shares that today are down about 5% to just shy of 168p?

Premium UK cinemas group Everyman Media (EMAN) has announced “record half year sales and EBITDA… the pipeline for H2 2022 and 2023 is well progressed with a minimum of six further venues contracted to open”. So what of the shares currently moving up to 111p?

Data and technology-focused recruitment and professional services group Parity (PTY) has issued a trading update emphasising “having successfully rebuilt the core recruitment business platform within Parity, we are beginning to see this capability make a positive impact on the performance of the business”. So what’s the financial detail and what of a current more than 6% higher share price response to 8.75p?

‘Self-care’ products group Venture Life (VLG) commences a trading update with that it “expects to report revenues for the six months ended 30 June 2022 of £18.9 million, a growth of 36% over the same period previous year” and adds “order book remains strong and is ahead of the same period last year”. So what of a current share price response up more than 9% at 35p?

Describing itself as “the owner of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, the leading curator and provider of premium single cask Scotch malt whisky and other spirits for sale primarily online to a discerning global membership”, Artisanal Spirits (ART) has announced a half-year trading update and the shares have currently responded 11% higher to 60.5p. So what’s the excitement?

Previously writing on manufacturer and distributor of wiring accessories, EV chargers, LED lighting and portable power products Luceco (LUCE), in May with the shares down to around 145p I concluded I’d await clear evidence of suggested improvement before reconsidering from avoid. So what of now a half-year trading update with the shares at 111.4p?

IQE plc (IQE) has announced it has filed a lawsuit in the U.S. Federal Court in California, stating it has “significant evidence” that Tower Semiconductor misappropriated IQE's trade secrets to unlawfully obtain patents on IQE's technology. Tower Semiconductor is a US-listed (Nasdaq - TSEM) circa $5 billion capitalised company which giant Intel is currently in the process of acquiring.

Cleaning and hygiene products private label and contract manufacturer McBride (MCB) has announced “revenue grew by 13.4% in the second half… anticipates that adjusted operating profit will be in line with current market consensus (*)” and the shares are currently 6% higher to 17.6p. Good news then?

Hello Share Watchers. Ouch! That’s all I can say about yesterday’s share drop for one of the outfits I talk most about. Creightons (CRL), that does cosmetics and household cleaners and such, saw a big tumble. It’s full year report wasn’t exactly scintillating, but I didn't think it was all that bad.

Shares in Mondi plc (MNDI) are down from reaching above 1950p in February to currently below 1500p. However, there looks good reasons why the shares in this FTSE 100 company should, at least, recover to those previous levels again. If not go higher still.

Previously writing on personal care, beauty and fragrance products company Creightons (CRL), in December with the shares at 92.5p I concluded that trading and supply chain uncertainty saw it just on my watchlist. The shares last closed at 54.4p...and are currently down to around 40p on the back of full-year results. So what’s going on?

American-themed casual dining brand 'Fridays', cocktail-led bar and restaurant brand '63rd+1st' and fast casual dining brand 'Fridays and Go' company Hostmore (MORE) has issued a half-year trading update emphasising “guidance for the full year remains unchanged, with LFL revenues for the period since 23 May 2022 in line with the expectations set out in the trading update issued on 26 May”. So what of a share price of 35p, comparing to more than 40p in May?

Retail, promotional and ‘brand experience’ company SpaceandPeople (SAL) has announced “trading during H1-22 continued to recover… confident that this will continue into the traditionally busier second half of the year”. So what of a current share price response to 112.5p, up 12.5%?

In May I noted on ‘fast-moving consumer products’ company Supreme plc (SUP) that it stated that it “continues to trade well and looks forward to updating the market further at the announcement of its year end results in July”, but that I noted clear challenges and, at a 135p share price, I continued to avoid. Today that results announcement.

Packaging company DS Smith (SMDS) has announced results for its year ended 30^th April 2022, with it emphasising “a strong improvement in profitability and high cash generation… The new financial year has started well, building on the momentum”. This sounds good.

Previously writing on TP Group (TPG), last week with the shares down to 1.85p I concluded that troubles are clearly currently ongoing with uncertain limits and, certainly ahead of the further update, I avoid. Now a further update... and the shares further down to currently 1.25p.

Previously writing on acoustic and thermal insulation group Autins (AUTG), in March with the shares at 19p I concluded that I looked forward to the detail in June-planned results for its half-year but suggest not much cash for long will be available for growth ‘positioning’ and that I certainly continued to avoid. Today the group has announced those results and the shares are currently further down to 14.5p.

TP Group (TPG) has issued an “Extension to Publication of Results”-titled announcement and the shares are down from 2.5p to currently 1.85p in response. So what’s going on?...

Previously writing on digital location, identity verification and fraud software group GB (GBG), in February last year with the shares at circa 860p I noted forecasts for an earnings per share decline and only just above that of then in the year after that are not, I suggest, what the valuation demands, avoid / sell. With the shares having last closed at 489.4p, what of now-announced results for the group’s year ended 31st March 2022?...

Describing itself as “the UK's leading retailer of living room furniture”, DFS (DFS) has issued a trading statement including that it has “increased our weekly production and delivered revenues progressively over Half 2, to record levels in the fourth quarter… expect to close the financial year with an order bank that is elevated by c. £30m or c. 2.5% of annual revenues relative to pre-pandemic levels… The group remains in a strong financial position with significant available headroom under our £215m bank facility”. So what of a current share price response to below 165p, 11% down!?

Previously writing on optical components and systems manufacturer Gooch & Housego (GHH), in February with the shares at 1045p I concluded that previously noted forecast earnings per share approaching 42p this year, up from 41p delivered last year, suggested, at best, little room for any disappointment and a risk/reward avoid. So what of half-year results today, and the shares currently at 900p?...

Previously writing on communications cloud platform group LoopUp (LOOP), on the shares rising to 13.375p in April I concluded that the financial picture meant I remained bearish and, looking towards further balance sheet detail with interest, to still avoid / sell. Now results for the 2021 calendar year... and the shares currently further down at below 7p.

An AGM statement from plastic and paperboard packaging manufacturer Robinson (RBN) commences, “Group sales in the first four months of the year are 22% ahead” and includes “profits are ahead of the first four months in 2021… profits in the 2022 financial year (excluding the uplift from the profits on disposal of properties) are expected to be inline with expectations, being comfortably ahead of 2021”. So what of a currently unchanged 80p share price?...

In mid-March Hostmore (MORE) emphasised “strong financial performance, in our maiden results as a publicly listed company… the growth of the group… delivering on our goals to the benefit of all stakeholders, including our loyal shareholders”. Today a trading update and the shares currently more than 15% lower in response towards 42p...

Pennant International (PEN) has announced its 2021 “second half was stronger, generating an EBITA profit of £0.2m” and “the current year has started well. In March 2022, we finally secured the Major Programme for Boeing Defence United Kingdom Limited… the board views prospects for 2022 with increasing confidence”. So what of a current 36.5p share price, down more than 6%?...

Describing itself as a “global leader in LED lighting for heavy industrial applications” Dialight (DIA) has issued an AGM trading statement including that it “has traded well… Longer term we are increasingly confident of our prospects given our leading sustainability products and significant market opportunity”. So what of a share price currently up to 336p?...