Previously writing on sports, leisure and mobility equipment group Tandem (TND), in March with the shares down to 235p I concluded that, with it stated “2023 sales have begun slowly” and trading headwinds, I remained cautious of the near-term outlook and continued to avoid. The shares most recently closed at 210p but what of them currently falling to 170p on the back of first half of 2023 results?

Previously writing on UK building materials distributor Lords Group Trading (LORD), in June with the shares up to 61.5p I concluded that I then avoided as I questioned whether consumer demand had been fully impacted yet. The shares had risen to mostly recently close at 68.5p but what of half-year results today currently seeing them back towards 60p?

Previously writing on window, door and roofline PVC products company Eurocell (ECEL), in May with the shares falling below below 110p I wrote profit warning, how much improvement in the near-term from here is there really likely to be? – and concluded to avoid. The shares most recently closed at 112.5p but are currently falling towards 100p on the back of half-year results.

Previously writing on sustainable wood company Accsys Technologies (AXS), in November with the shares down to 64p I noted even an adjusted loss and it also updating end-September half year “adjusted net debt of approximately €62m (31 March 2022: €55m)” – and continued to avoid. The shares have recently been significantly recovering but are currently back towards 70p following a “trading update”.

Ten weeks ago I observed “my continued deep yawn about the world of Crest Nicholson (CRST)” HERE. Since then shares in the housebuilder have fallen by nearly 20%, partly driven by its announcement earlier today.

Previously writing on international staffing group Empresaria (EMR), in May with the shares down to 53p I cautioned that the half-year results look set to be particularly unfavourable and concluded to avoid. The shares most recently closed at 52p, but today “a trading update ahead of announcing its interim results on 22 August”… and what of the shares currently down at 38p?

Previously writing on Brighton Palace Pier and other UK leisure and entertainment group Brighton Pier (PIER), in February with the shares falling to 61p I concluded I remained cautious of the outlook and continued to avoid. The shares most recently closed at 57p… and what of them currently heading towards 40p on the back of a “trading statement”?

Previously writing on homewares group Portmeirion (PMP), last year with the shares at 350p I wrote interims, “encouraging year on year growth” but will it continue? – concluding still currently only on the watchlist. The shares most recently closed at 395p, but my caution now looks more justified with they currently falling below 300p on the back of a “trading update”.

Previously writing on UK manufacturer of clay and concrete building products Forterra (FORT), a couple of years ago with the shares up to 288.5p I concluded that the valuation didn’t look to offer value, particularly for if the inflationary pressures persisted for some time – and that such a scenario was quite feasible given the wide pandemic response. Today a 2023 half-year trading update… and, with the shares currently slightly further down to below 160p, what now?

Back in April, I talked about “jobs, revenues and Robert Walters plc's (RWC) dull update”. Since then the company’s shares have fallen even lower, but all of this decline is due to an over 10% fall this morning. Greetings to another dull update!

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 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?

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?

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 videogames developer and publisher Frontier Developments (FDEV) just over a year ago I concluded, even as the share price fell towards 1300p, that noted performance and guidance supported continued caution. The shares last closed at 999p and today a “Trading Update and Notice of Results”. This commences including that the company “expects to report revenue for H1 FY23 of approximately £57 million (H1 FY22: £49.1 million)”. Good news then?

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 photonic components and systems manufacturer Gooch & Housego (GHH), in August with the shares falling below 700p I concluded that the flux together with the valuation suggested to still avoid / sell. The shares last closed at 463p, and what of them currently being still further down today on the back of results for the company’s year ended 30th September 2022?

Previously writing on ventilation systems and window and door hardware company Titon Holdings (TON), in July with the shares down to 75p I noted my prior caution justified; trading warning – concluding that uncertainties saw me continue to avoid. The shares last closed at 81p... but today another trading update.

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%?

UK floor coverings distribution group Likewise (LIKE) commences a trading update with that it “is pleased that its ongoing investment in sales representatives, point of sale and logistics infrastructure, has resulted in sales revenue continuing to progressively increase month on month. Revenue growth in Q3 of 23% organic and 96% total growth exceeded the performance achieved in Q2, with full year revenues expected to slightly exceed current market expectations”. That sounds good, so what of a current share price response down over 16.5% towards 15p?

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?

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 fishing retailer Angling Direct (ANG), in August with the shares down to 30p I concluded that the trajectory of trading saw me retain my cautious stance of most recently a 62p share price. The shares most recently closed at 32p but are currently below 30p on the back of half-year results.

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%?!

Previously writing on x-ray imaging company Image Scan (IGE), in March with the shares up to 2.25p I questioned how “significant” is the loss to be? and concluded to avoid the shares. What of today a “trading update” and the shares currently a further more than 20% lower on the back of it, to just above 1p?

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?

Hello Shares Casters. Treatt (TET) is an interesting company. And though it had a profit warning recently, I rather think the selling might have been overdone. Because it seems to me, at any rate, to have perhaps a better future ahead of it.

Back in November of last year the CEO of Cake Box (CBOX) sold 3 million shares at 350p to mug fund managers. That means that over the past two years he has trousered £16.4 million at 170p and 350p. Lucky him. The company, which I have called out for months as a slam dunk car crash waiting to happen, has recently served up a horrific profit warning and its shares touched 90p. But then the CEO invested £250,000 at 121p and hey presto the shares are now 142p – more than halfway back to the pre-warning 180p level. This is absurd.

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.

Stores and online fishing retailer Angling Direct (ANG) has issued a half-year trading update including summarising that it “has made further progress on its strategic objectives… whilst growing sales… the highly fragmented European market remains a very attractive strategic priority”. So why are the shares currently approaching 18% lower at 30p, a £23.2 million market cap?

Previously writing on photonic components and systems manufacturer Gooch & Housego (GHH), in June with the shares at 900p I concluded that ‘I suggest the company will now do well to get even close to the full-year earnings per share of last year (41p) – the prior half-year was 15.7p. With the share price still looking to demand, at least, smooth growth, I currently continue to avoid’. The shares last closed at 828p... and now a “Trading Update and Directorate Changes” announcement.

Describing itself as “a leading designer, developer and supplier of interior components to the global automotive industry”, CT Automotive Group (CTA) has issued a trading update headlined “Revenues ahead in H1, production recovery gaining momentum”...and the shares have responded to currently 115p, more than 22% lower! So what’s going on?

Previously writing on ventilation systems and window and door hardware company Titon Holdings (TON), in May with the shares at 75p I noted supply chain, inflationary and consumer pressures and economic activity uncertainty saw me continue to avoid. The shares last closed at 82.5p but are currently back to 75p, a £8.4 million market cap, on a “trading update”.

Packaging and automation solutions group Mpac (MPAC) has issued a trading update commencing that it “has continued to make progress during the first half of the financial year despite a challenging trading environment, ending the period with a strong order book, ahead of the previous year, and with a very encouraging prospects pipeline. The group expects to report revenue that is ahead of last year and in line with its expectations in respect of the six months ended 30 June 2022”. Sounds good, so what of a current 260p share price...down over 30% on the day?!

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.

Back in August last year, I concluded about Rank Group (RNK) that at the then 175p share price “for me today I would AVOID”. That was wise as this morning shares in the company which has “entertained Britain since 1937” are only 82p! So why have they halved over the last ten months?

Previously writing on maternity and nursing wear group Seraphine (BUMP), in February with the shares down towards 70p I noted having listed little more than 7 months ago… a lack-of-profits warning AGAIN! concluding that the deteriorating balance sheet and track record since listing meant it remains Bargepole. Now a “Year End Trading Update”...

Hello Share Mates. It's natural, isn't it? We're warned about most of the dodgy companies on this blistering website. And we begin to think many more listed companies are suspect. They have incompetent mangers or worse still, there is some chicanery going on.

Hello Share Tasters.  It’s a while since I last commended Gear4Music (G4M) to you. And since then we’ve had sad lesson about how fast a jolly story can turn unexpectedly into a bad one. Tom has reasonably pointed out to me that I could have responded earlier to this turnaround in Gear4Music’s fortunes.  But his email reminders to me on the subject seem to have disappeared into the ether.

Life sciences market IT provider Instem (INS) has announced 2021 results emphasising “the combination of increasing demand for regulatory-backed solutions and a growing demand for artificial intelligence and in silico solutions in the drug R&D process underpins our confidence in further leveraging our software and service portfolio”. So what of a current share price response to below 700p, down more than 12%?!

Legal and professional services group Knights (KGH) has announced recent “lower than management’s expectations” performance but, with “cash conversion remains robust, with industry leading lock-up and debtor days”, is a share price response to below 200p, a more than 45% fall, justified?…

Maternity and nursing wear group Seraphine (BUMP) has announced a trading update commencing that it “has experienced strong sales growth in the 17 weeks to 30th January 2022 of 45%” and including that it expects full-year adjusted EBITDA of circa £4.5 million. With adjusted EBITDA being manipulated bullshit earnings, that doesn’t sound a lot considering a start of day market cap of more than £100 million…

Previously writing on ventilation systems and window and door hardware company Titon Holdings (TON), in December with the shares at 107.5p I noted full-year trading improvement, but what’s the outlook?. Now a “trading update” and the shares, having last closed at 100p, are currently at 80p!

Previously writing on marketing decision-making platform group System1 (SYS1), just earlier this month whilst it argued profitability “in line with management’s expectations” I noted the share price falling below 400p in response, it not fully in line with expectations and a still challenging valuation. But why are the shares materially lower today to around 250p?…

Womenswear online retailer In The Style (ITS) states it “is pleased to provide an update on Christmas trading for the eight weeks to 31 December 2021 as well as an update on its board of directors”. The shares though are currently down to 91p, so what’s the story?…

Online prize competitions company Best of the Best (BOTB) has announced results for its half-year ended 31st October 2021 including “in line with market expectations as updated in August 2021”. However, I previously noted that “updated” was actually a massive profit warning, concluding with the shares around the mid 600p’s I want to see some evidence of the earnings “uptick” potential before reconsidering from the watchlist. The shares last closed at 606p but are currently below 450p, so what’s going on with the apparently “in line” results?…

Previously writing on engineering and technology recruitment company Gattaca (GATC), in November with the shares falling below 180p I concluded house broker forecasts suggested possibly reasonable value but that the company’s recent performance and its outlook meant I’d wait for a further update on trading before reconsidering from the watchlist. Now a further trading update…

A trading statement announcement from greeting cards and complementary products retailer Card Factory (CARD) is headlined “Trading ahead of Board expectations for FY22”. So why have the shares currently responded to around 54p, 15% down?…

Previously writing on technology company to defence and related markets Cohort (CHRT), in September with the shares lower to 568p I concluded including also noted is that some delays have persisted – with the company noting some extended negotiations, restrictions impact and supply chain challenges… at this juncture, just on the watchlist. The shares last closed at 600p, but are currently lower towards 500p on the back of half-year results. So what’s the story now?…

Previously writing on manufacturer of plastic and paperboard packaging Robinson (RBN), in August with the shares at 112.5p I concluded the forecasts looked challenging and continue to avoid. So what of a trading statement today?…

Infection prevention and control products company Byotrol (BYOT) states that it “is pleased to announce” results for its half-year ended 30th September 2021. I previously concluded in April with the shares at 7p to avoid, they last closed at 5p…and are currently further lower at 4.275p. So what’s going on with trading?…

Describing itself as “a leader in developing, manufacturing and commercialising products for the self-care market”, a “Trading Update & Board Changes” announcement from Venture Life Group (VLG) includes “the directors see many reasons to be optimistic and are pleased with how the company is positioned… The company is profitable, cash generative, with a healthy cash balance… order book ahead of where it was at the same time last year (on a like for like basis)”. So why then are the shares, at circa 35p, 27% lower on the back of it?…

Previously writing on financial markets technology and related services group Arcontech (ARC), in September with the shares down to 140.5p I questioned “confident we will return to growth”. The shares most recently closed at 126.5p and are currently heading towards 100p on the back of a “trading update”. It means a profit warning then…

Previously writing on online musical instruments and music equipment retailer Gear4music (G4M), in June with the shares at 960p I concluded on the watchlist whilst I continue to see how the unwinding from government restrictions plays out. The shares last closed at 800p, but are currently down at around 700p on the back of results for the company’s half-year ended 30th September 2021. However, with it having updated on trading only last month, what’s going on?…

UK structural steel and construction safety company Billington Holdings (BILN) has made a “trading update” noting current “delays in the construction industry” but “an increased degree of confidence for 2022 and beyond”. So what’s the full story?…

A trading update announcement from ‘celebrations, craft, gifting, stationery and creative play products’ group IG Design (IGR) commences that it “has delivered a good revenue performance in the first half of the financial year with like-for-like revenue up 11% on the prior year, and up 5% on proforma revenues (including CSS prior to ownership) for the six months to 30 September 2019”. So why are the shares, currently at around 300p, more than 30% lower in response?…

In May I concluded with shares in “the UK’s leading independent tissue converter” Accrol (ACRL) lower at 54p to avoid as inflationary pressures could persist for some time given the wide pandemic response. The shares last closed at 44.95p and are currently below 40p on the back of a trading update…

Previously on LED lighting, electronic and electro-mechanical systems group LPA (LPA), I wrote trading warning, argues “victims of our own success”. Really? in March with the shares at 75.5p. They were still above 70p this morning, but at 11:53am a “Year End Trading Update”-titled announcement. If a scheduled such trading update why the intra-day release?…

A “Trading Statement” from iron casting and machining company Castings (CGS) includes “the current conversion rate of forward schedules to actual sales is significantly below what we would normally expect”. How does the statement make a current share price fall to 340p look?…

On listing on AIM in March I concluded on online womenswear group In The Style (ITS), listing at the “top of the valuation range” price was 200p per share, to capitalise the group at £105 million. With that and concern on the sustainability of recent performance; the noted selling shareholders having likewise and hence their selling now?, I certainly currently avoid. I concluded similarly cautiously more recently with the shares at 226p. Today an AGM trading update – and the shares currently down to 165p!

Designer, developer and international distributor of toys, games and giftware Character Group (CCT) commences a trading update today with that, “The re-opening of the bricks and mortar retail sector following the easing and, subsequently, the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions in many of our markets has had a buoyant impact on sales generally”. So why are the shares currently, at 572.5p, more than 17% lower?…

A “Trading Update” announcement from Parity Group (PTY) at an intra-day 10:40am. Such is rarely good news and so what about the latest from this self-styled “data and technology-focussed professional services company”?…

Hello Share Shapers. Normally, this old punter avoids firms in the ‘defence’ sector. I find that defence can mean offence and the thought of my money killing and maiming people is something I want now’t to do with. But Avon Protection (AVON) keeps safe soldiers and police men and women, which is a different kettle of fish.

Writing on online prize competitions company Best of the Best (BOTB) in May with the shares at 2775p I noted house broker finnCap’s forecasts of earnings per share of more than 143p for the just commenced year and 165.5p for the year after that compared to 37.5p for the company’s year ended 30th April 2020 and that there has surely been lockdown benefit to it in the subsequent period (last year’s earnings per share 122.5p), stating concern on the sustainability of some of the recent earnings. Today there has been a “Trading Update” – and the shares have collapsed to 830p!

Defence and related markets products and services company Cohort (CHRT) has announced a trading update including “Net funds stronger than expected at c.£2m (30 April 2020: net debt of £4.7m; 31 October 2020: net debt of £6.1m)… order book of c.£240m (30 April 2020: £183.3m)… we see good prospects for further significant new orders”. Why then are the shares currently, at 636p, more than 5% lower in response?…

A “trading update” announcement from infection prevention and contamination control products company Tristel (TSTL) yesterday morning saw the shares down approaching 16% at 563p as I then wrote. What then of CEO Paul Swinney having since purchased shares at 572.75p each?

The AGM of LED lighting, electronic and electro-mechanical systems group LPA (LPA) was today and there is an accompanying “AGM Trading Update” announcement. Should be routine-enough then… but the shares are currently at 75.5p in response, down approaching 12%!…

A trading update from Yourgene Health (YGEN) commences that “the stronger trading patterns being observed in H2 compared to the first 6 months of the financial year mean that double-digit revenue growth is expected for the full year” (to 31st March 2021). However, the shares are currently around 9% lower in response, at circa 12p, with the update also including “the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on ordering patterns in UK and international commerce is expected to result in full year revenue being below consensus market estimates”. Having spoken to the company, here’s the detail…

Previously writing on remote meetings technology group LoopUp (LOOP), in July with the shares at 177.5p I questioned how sustainable the net cash generation? The shares went on towards 250p, but last closed at 155p and are currently well below 100p on the back of a “Trading Update”…

I have warned and warned that AIM-listed Haydale (HAYD) would need more money and as ramptastic RNS after ramptastic RNS has been issued by the company as it has joined the Covid-bandwagon, despite a calamitous profit warning in April the shares have been rising and rising. Today, they stopped going up: is there a placing on the way? Do we need a statement from the company?

After last week’s jam-tomorrow ramparoonie, today AIM-listed Haydale (HAYD) offered up a calamitous profit warning. Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear…..

If you ask me to name five 'quality' longer-term FTSE-100 constituents, then I would probably include Johnson Matthey (JMAT) on that list. Naturally though, its corporate longevity and range of typically high barrier to entry businesses (recycling and refining of precious metals, clean air and car emissions regulation focused, plus batteries and value-adding fine chemicals) has not stopped it avoiding the recent plunge. Today's update (thanks to the FCA for allowing this – you know my thoughts on the postponement / suppression of reporting) includes a profit warning, but that is par for the course, although with a bunch of cost suppression comments…

Writing on agriculture feeds and engineering group Carr's (CARR) in January with the shares slipping below 150p I concluded stated to be “predominantly driven by seasonal working capital movements” – though not wholly driven by them, then? Together with the now reliance on a greater than normal second half weighting, at least ahead of further insight (half-year results, for instance, are scheduled for 15th April), I avoid. Today “Trading Update”…

Describing itself as a “global provider of human capital and business improvement solutions”, Mind Gym (MIND) has updated commencing; “Underlying trading remained strong between the half year-end (30 September 2019) and the end of January 2020, however”…

A “Trading Update” announcement from Aeorema Communications (AEO), an “AIM-quoted live events agency”. Uh oh…

A “Coronavirus update” from self-styled “next generation global events business” Hyve Group (HYVE) commences that “Hyve has been taking decisive and rapid management actions to mitigate the potential impact to our business” and includes that it “continues to be highly cash generative and, following the refinancing that the group undertook in December, has material headroom available on the debt facility and expects to operate within the covenants”. The shares, having been above 100p as recently as early last month and last closed at still above 70p, have currently responded towards 60p…

A Friday “Trading Update and Impact of Coronavirus” announcement from industrial chains and related power transmission products company Renold (RNO) failed to halt a falling share price – and now both Chairman Mark Harper and Finance Director Ian Scapens have responded buying shares…

“Beeks Financial Cloud Group plc (AIM: BKS), a cloud computing and connectivity provider for financial markets, is pleased to announce its unaudited results for the six months ended 31 December 2019”. After recent falls, not a significant share price bounce currently though…

A “COVID-19 Update”, intra-day (2:15pm) from “the UK's leading online retailer for beach holidays”, On the Beach Group (OTB). Uh oh…

Early last month I noted on Topps Tiles (TPT), the shares have recovered from nearly re-hitting in November the sub 65p of my prior update to a current circa 75p. From here, certainly at least before clear evidence of improvement… I continue to avoid. The shares closed yesterday at 78.6p but are currently heading towards 60p on the back of a “Trading Update”…

Spend management software and services company Proactis (PHD) has updated including commencing “the group's announcement on 29 April 2019 outlined a revised strategy that included improving the rates of winning new customers and the retention of existing customers. Since then, the group has restructured its operations and the board is encouraged to be able to report that the group has delivered well against this strategy during the six-month period to 31 January 2020” – and the shares have responded to 48p, 20% higher, though still well down from more than 100p even less than a year ago…

Previously writing on bathroom and kitchen products company Norcros (NXR), in October I reviewed how’s ‘play it safe and bank the gain here. Sell’ looking approaching a year on? – concluding suggesting increasing difficulties with a reliance on winning market share. Meanwhile, acquisitions still bring greater elements of risk. Thus, whilst at a current circa 220p the shares look cheap, I currently remain on the sidelines here. The shares last closed at 291p but are currently sliding on a “Trading update and impact of the Coronavirus”…

The largest specialist fishing tackle and equipment retailer in the UK, Angling Direct (ANG) has updated including “in-store sales were £27.9 million, an increase of 41.3% on the prior year period and up 12.0% on a like-for-like basis” and “online sales grew to £25.2 million, an increase of 13.3% on the prior year period”. The shares have currently responded to around 60p – circa 13% lower. Hmmm…

Having previously updated in December including “we continue to face political and economic uncertainties which have contributed to a challenging first two months of the fiscal year”, though with “our business model is robust”, now an “AGM Statement” from ventilation systems and window and door hardware company Titon Holdings (TON) – and the shares currently at 87.5p, more than 20% lower…

Subsea protection systems group Tekmar (TGP) has updated including that it “now expects that the group's earnings in FY20 will be broadly in line with those achieved in FY19”. That is with it having announced half-year adjusted earnings per share of 2.2p, comparing to -4p for the first half of the prior year and 6.2p for that full-year – and the shares are currently responding back to around 120p, more than 20% lower…

Previously writing on castings and engineering group Chamberlin (CMH), in December I questioned do contract awards justify the current approaching 90% share price rise? – concluding, with the shares at more than 40p, I’ll monitor for some sustained improved trading momentum but the financials at this juncture see me certainly continue to avoid. There’s now followed attempted no-one watching o’clock “Trading Statement”, research update and “Holding(s) in Company” announcements…

Previously writing on Scapa Group (SCPA), in June I concluded the shares were already down from approaching 400p following the results – and are currently down a further more than 40%, below 170p on this latest. I note the stock has been a feature of our weekly Table of shorted AIM shares, though I suggest there may now be some value from here. However, the uncertainty seemingly everywhere with this company currently, sees it, for now, only on my watchlist. The shares last closed at 272p… but are currently back below 200p…

Previously writing on marketing services group System1 (SYS1), in November I concluded its stated upside potential is still very much to be proven and the shares only on the watchlist. Today “Trading Update and Planned Share Buyback”…

Previously writing on security and surveillance systems group Petards (PEG), in September with the shares down to 16p I noted the balance sheet position despite noted profit and concluded also cautious of its still reliance on a second half weighting, I currently avoid. Now a “Trading Update”…

NAHL Group (NAH) has updated on trading including its Critical Care division “traded well”, Personal Injury division “marginally ahead of expectations”, “confirms that its guidance for 2019 underlying earnings will be within the range previously announced” and “the board is encouraged by the progress made in transforming the business”. The shares have currently responded towards 50p – er, more than 45% lower!...

Previously writing on self-styled “a leading provider of innovative, highly engineered technology products principally for the global gaming and broadcast industries” Quixant (QXT), in September with the shares slumping to just over 160p I questioned were even reduced forecasts realistic given customers have informed that order levels will not return to previous levels through “at least” the first half of 2020. Now a “Trading Update”…

Previously writing on windows and doors manufacturer and retailer Safestyle UK (SFE), with the shares around 66p I questioned how good really was its argued “delivered good progress”. The shares were rising towards 80p earlier this month, but are currently back to around 60p on the back of a trading update…

AIM-listed online Women’s wear peddler Sosandar (SOS) delivered a Christmas trading update this morning. Bearing in mind that I was previously very bullish on the company, but lost faith as management strategy appeared to change with the wind, I was fascinated to see if I was still comfortable with having sold out, or had perhaps been too much of a pessimist.

Self-styled “leading B2B media business” Bonhill (BONH) has updated including that it “now expects EBITDA for the year to be £2.3 million, being lower than market expectations as approximately £0.25m of custom marketing contracts which had been expected to be delivered in December 2020 will now be delivered in Q1 2020” but that “the outlook in both the UK and US is greatly improved, reflected in the current level of bookings being received” – so a current more than 5% share price fall, to a £17 million market cap fair?...

So I see that Intu Properties (INTU) fessed up to the need for a massive cash raise as I mused upon yesterday, a disclosure which has pulled down the shares over 5% as I write. However, it is a bigger share price fall that is grabbing my attention this morning…

Character Group (CCT) has updated including “we enter the 2020 calendar year with a very strong product portfolio and, although the first half results will be below last year, we anticipate that the group will deliver one of our strongest second half performances to date”. The shares have currently responded to around 330p – circa 13% lower on the day. Fair?...

Previously writing on technical fluid power products company Flowtech Fluidpower (FLO), despite house broker finnCap looking for a full-year underlying pre-tax profit rising above £12 million, generating earnings per share of 16.5p – up from 2018’s 14.7p, I noted concern regarding the ability to deliver “another year of solid progress”. Now “Trading Update - for the year to 31 December 2019” commencing; “Market conditions in the second half of 2019, in particular the final quarter, have been challenging”. Uh oh…

Previously writing on cleaning and hygiene products manufacturer McBride (MCB), in July I concluded with the shares then down a further more than 10%, below 70p, that my stance remains bargepole / sell. The company “today provides a trading update for the six months ended 31 December 2019”. Uh oh – not ‘is pleased to provide’?...

“Owner and operator of 47 premium pubs across Southern England and Wales”, The City Pub Group (CPC) has announced a “Year End Trading Update”, including “the board is pleased with the overall performance of the group for 2019”. The shares are currently at 197.5p – er, more than 9% lower on the day!…

Card Factory (CARD) has updated commencing “group revenue year-to-date of +3.6% (2019: +3.4%) with like-for-like sales -0.6% (2019: -0.1%)” and including “the board remains committed to its previously stated dividend policy”. The shares have currently responded to 100p – er, more than 28% lower!...

Catenae Innovation (CTEA) snuck out another profit warning on Friday at 5.02pm – truly no-one-is-watching o’clock, telling the market that its trading performance continues to be below management expectations as notified on 11 September and its financial position remains weak. Oh dear, of dear – things aren’t getting any better for the former Milestone Group (MSG) showing once again that Warren Buffett’s adage that when a bad company meets good (or only slightly better) management, it is the reputation for the former which prevails.

Warpaint London (W7L), “the specialist supplier of colour cosmetics and owner of the W7 and Technic brands”, commences a “Trading Update” with that it “is pleased to announce that it currently anticipates that group sales for the financial year to 31 December 2019 will be approximately £50 million, in line with the guidance provided in the company's trading update on 6 August 2019”. The shares have responded to around 70p – more than 14% lower!...

Just over two weeks ago, half-year results highlights from “diversified industrial engineering company” The 600 Group (SIXH) included “Positive outlook… Interim dividend of 0.25p per share reflecting the board's confidence”. Now, so soon after, there a “Trading Update”?…

Previously writing on recruitment and training group Staffline (STAF), in June with the shares above 100p I noted 2018 results (eventually), proposed bailout fundraising & directors 'avin a laugh?, concluding it’s also clearly challenging trading and that’s enough for me at this juncture to continue to avoid. Today “Trading Update” and “Directorate Change” – rarely a good combination…

Previously writing on self-styled “provider of software and services for Enterprise Innovation Management and Strategy Execution Management”, Sopheon (SPE), I questioned in July no change in “expected commercial momentum”, concluding, with the shares at 800p, with what is currently being delivered and clear commercial momentum risk, avoid / sell. Now “Trading Update”…

I wonder what the M&C Saatchi (SAA) Christmas party will be like this year? Judging by today's regulatory news update, I would be tempted to cancel it – if it was going ahead in the first place. You may recall that I have written twice about the advertising company - most recently here back in September - talking about its slow car crash involving both an accounting scandal and depressed profits. Today's update provides clarity on the former, but provides another slice of trading gloom. And the shares? Down 40% from already depressed levels as I write. It is going to have to work hard to advertise this positively...

“Pelatro Plc (AIM: PTRO), the global Multichannel Marketing Hub software specialist, is pleased to announce a significant contract win and an update on trading” – and the shares are currently circa 30% higher, at above 50p, in response – should be all good then…

A “Trading Update” from ‘image capture and content creation’ products and systems group Vitec (VTC). This follows a September-announced resignation of Finance Director Kath Kearney-Croft, though it reassured then “the outlook for 2019 is unchanged”. So this latest trading update ok then?...

A “Trading Statement” from learning and skills company with courses delivered on sites in London, Manchester, Singapore, Malaysia and online, Malvern International (MLVN) includes “full year revenues are now expected to be modestly ahead year on year… the board expects to report a positive underlying EBITDA for the year… The board with its new members believes that it is pursuing the right strategy in diversifying its product offering and locations”. The shares have currently responded to comfortably below 1p – er, circa 50% lower!...

I previously wrote on STM Group (STM) in late 2017, concluding, with the shares having been recovering back above 40p, that with uncertainty together with the tardiness of its announcements, if I owned I’d currently sell and await further developments. Latest results in September included it looking to “round-off a solid performance for the year” – and “the cross border financial services provider, today provides the following update on trading” (not ‘pleased to provide’ then?)...

Previously writing on self-styled “global leader in LED lighting for heavy industrial applications” Dialight (DIA), in August I questioned “increasingly well positioned”, concluding the current reality though, rather than the jam tomorrow, sees the shares presently back towards 350p – and, with the market cap still more than £100 million, the risk/reward at this juncture still sees my stance sell / avoid. Today a “Trading Statement”…

In August Nigel Somerville noted that Neil Woodford will be reading the half-year results of Non-Standard Finance (NSF) – which he put his weight behind in its takeover battle with the rather larger Provident Financial (PFG), which he also owns. But NSF lost that battle and this morning Neil learns that the whole exercise cost it £12.7 million. Those results at least though also emphasised “whilst macroeconomic uncertainties remain, the group remains resilient and well-placed to meet its objectives”. Today a “Trading Update”…

Previously writing on homewares group Portmeirion (PMP), in May I noted after less than 2 months ago “we look forward into 2019 with confidence” … a significantly below market expectations profit warning, concluding, with the shares lower towards 900p, and with I also having previously noted from “expect profit before tax to be in line with market expectations for the full year” to “pre-tax profits are expected to be materially below” in less than two months, to avoid. The first ‘Headline’ of its 1st August-announced interims was “First half results are in line with our expectations set out in the 14 May 2019 trading update and we anticipate achieving full year expectations” – and now a “Trading Update”…

Writing on B2B media group Bonhill (BONH) in July I concluded, with the shares then around 65p, with a still more than £30 million market cap, the noted risks to expectations (a £4 million+ full-year profit has been anticipated) see me avoid. The shares closed yesterday at 53.5p and now a “Trading Update”…

Previously writing on self-styled “leading commercial kitchen services provider” Filta Group (FLTA), in August last year with the shares at circa 230p I concluded precious little Benjamin Graham ‘margin of safety’ (“for absorbing the effect of miscalculations or worse than average luck”). Possibly one for the watchlist for a better entry level, but currently, with the potential reward v. risk trade-off looking heavily tilted to the latter, one I avoid. Today a “Trading Update”…

Previously writing on automotive retailer Lookers (LOOK), in July I questioned “extremely well positioned to take advantage of the many opportunities”?, concluding I was unconvinced and the outlook saw my stance bargepole / sell. Now “Trading Update & Board Changes”. Uh oh – those together rarely good news…

With its shares already down from 700p+ in 2017 and more than 450p as recently as May to a prior close 187p, a “Trading Update” from self-styled “the world's premier currency and authentication provider” De La Rue (DLAR)…

Provider of infrastructure services to the UK housebuilding and commercial sectors, Nexus Infrastructure (NEXS) has updated with a headline “Profits for the full year expected to be in line with market expectations” and a statement including “the continued growth in our order book provides us with strong visibility of future earnings and gives us confidence in the future… The board believes that the group is in a strong position to deliver consistent organic growth, aided by the structural undersupply in the UK housebuilding market and Government stimulus for the sector”. The shares have responded up to 140p – though that down from 216p reached in April. Hmmm…

A “Trading update” from bricks and other masonry products manufacturer Forterra (FORT). This was a recent years Neil Woodford pick – and so take a guess of how trading’s going…

In June, with the shares at 220p, I stated on business software, cloud and managed services group K3 Business Technology (KBT) “Trading Update” = Profit Warning Deferral?, questioning the ‘prolonged customer decision-making processes’ really all due to Brexit-related disruption?, “the benefits of transformation initiatives” really coming through across all key areas of activity? Now another “Trading update”…

Building materials group with “leading regional or national positions in the merchanting markets in the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands”, Grafton (GFTU) has issued a trading update for the third quarter of 2019 – this “brings forward a planned update scheduled for 12 November 2019”. Uh oh – that doesn’t tend to be a good sign…

In June Castleton Technology (CTP) argued “another year of significant progress” and “the combination of a healthy pipeline of new business, together with our new development capabilities and our improved organisational structure, give… confidence for the year ahead and… expect that we will show continued progress in both our financial and operational metrics when we next report”. Now is a next report…

A “Trading Update” from pipe and tubing assemblies company Tricorn (TCN) – and the shares currently at 12p, down more than 33% on the day…

I last wrote about the 'leading European supplier of building materials' SIG (SHI) back in early July, observing that it was failing to cost-cut its way to growth due to the business being operationally/economically geared. Well the latter points are very obvious today with a trading update which notes a 'deterioration in trading conditions has accelerated over recent weeks, and political and macro-economic uncertainty has continued to increase'. Oh dear...but today's 22% share price fall has pushed the shares below 100 pence...

Early August interims from Zotefoams (ZTF) included “we expect Zotefoams to deliver further growth in 2019 and meet market expectations”. Now a “Trading Update” – and the shares currently at around 350p, circa 35% lower on the day!...

Previously writing on Coral Products (CRU), in May I questioned director share purchases... but inspiring confidence?, concluding the announcement still doesn’t really inspire faith in the board’s confidence in its strategy and look forward to a year of continued improvement and, with the shares above 8p, I continue to avoid. Today the shares are currently down from 7p towards 5p on the back of an “AGM Statement”…

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear. It is a recurring nightmare for Neil Woodford’s disruptive play on all things sleep related as AIM-listed Eve Sleep (EVE) has announced yet another profit warning as the company also announced that merger talks with Simba are all off. It is enough to disrupt even the heaviest of sleeps and the shares have opened 28% down – and are still falling.

“Petards Group plc (AIM: PEG), the AIM quoted developer of advanced security and surveillance systems, is pleased to report its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2019” and “remains confident in the group's future prospects”. The shares have currently responded to 16p, capitalising the company at £9.2 million – er, approaching 18% down…

On 23rd July it was “Quixant (AIM: QXT), a leading provider of innovative, highly engineered technology products principally for the global gaming industry, is pleased to provide an update on trading for the six months ended 30 June 2019... H1 2019 was completed as we expected and reported in March, with the lower than anticipated consumption of some major customers improving as we enter the second half… a growing order book during H1 positions us well to deliver a strong second half to the year… The company's interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2019 are expected to be announced on 24 September 2019”. Now, 17th September, “Interim Results”. Hmmm…

On 26th June “Trackwise Designs Plc (TWD), a leading provider of specialist products using printed circuit technology” updated including it “is currently trading in line with market expectations” and emphasising “operational progress and continued growth in customer numbers”. Its today-announced results for the first half of 2019 should be decent enough then – and indeed the company “is pleased to announce” them, with the statement including “Trackwise has made solid progress against its strategic objectives in the first half of the year” and “we continue to manage the resources of the business prudently”…

“Alfa Financial Software Holdings PLC ('Alfa') provides the following update on trading, ahead of its interim results which will be released on Thursday 26 September”. Hmmm – why such an update so close to the results announcement? – and not ‘pleased to provide’ I immediately note…

Away from being an investment geek and spending time with the family, one of my favourite hobbies is cycling. Like a complete sad-o, for the last ten days or so, I have been putting my static bike in front of the TV and pedalling away whilst watching highlights of the Vuelta (the three week grand tour of Spain for pro-cyclists) but it is getting out and about in the fresh air on the bike that does it for me. So I know a little bit about cycling and my personal consumer view of the space is: I don't need to go to Halfords (HFD)...

Previously writing on digital inkjet technology company Xaar (XAR), in March with the shares sliding below 115p I concluded the cash burn and current clear trading challenges see me note that “strong portfolio” still very much has to be proven – and to currently retain a stance of avoid. That was with the company having updated including “we are confident that the transformation we are undergoing will lead us to become a more diversified and customer-centric organisation, with an appropriate balance between established and developing technologies. We remain focused on delivering the benefits of our strong portfolio and technology advantages to shareholders”. Today a “Trading update & revised date for interim results”. Doesn’t sound encouraging!...

Maintel Holdings (MAI) has updated including first half of 2019 “adjusted earnings per share at 30.0p (H1 2018: 25.9p)… interim dividend per share proposed at 15.1p (H1 2018: 15.0p)” and that it “continues its transformation into a cloud and managed services provider with growth of 32% in unified communications seats on our ICON cloud platform and revenues from cloud and software customers now representing 20% of overall turnover… Underlying demand for our services remains high and our new business pipeline remains strong with some significant project opportunities”. The shares have responded to 425p – er, approaching 3.5% lower!...

Hello, Share Creepers. When one prefers posh shoes, one visits charity shops in superior locations. Recently, I was delighted to discover that a pair of Bally brogues I acquired for £5 are - if bought new - about £650. At the other end of the price scale is the high street chain of Shoe Zone (SHOE). I live close to a branch which always has real bargains in the window...

Previously writing on Gulf Marine Services (GMS), in December I noted warns but argues there will be longer-term improvement; It’s got to be around for that first though! – concluding still bargepole / sell as the shares slumped below 10p. Today a “Corporate & Board Update”…

A trading update from Brady (BRY) commences; “Brady plc (BRY.L), a leading global provider of trading, risk management and settlement solutions to the energy and commodities sectors, announces that, over the course of the first half of 2019, Brady has had positive engagements with existing customers, and the recurring revenue is in line with expectations”. The shares are currently around 35p – down more than 35% though!...

CEPS plc (CEPS) has made an intra-day (1:07pm) “Trading Update”. I thus suspect it ain’t going to be good…

Previously writing on Corero Network Security (CNS), in January I noted 2018 disappointment follows 2017 disappointment, and 2019…, finishing I previously concluded, with a long track-record of cash burn and a market cap now of more than £45 million, my stance presently remains avoid / sell. The market cap is still currently slightly higher, but the track-record is unchanged – and so too is my stance. Avoid / sell. The market cap was down towards £25 million at yesterday’s 6.3p share price close – and now “Trading Update”…

Self-styled “leading provider of outsourced digital transformation and mobile payment solutions” Mi-Pay Group (MPAY) has updated including “trading for the first half of 2019 was broadly in line with management's expectations… two major contracts were renewed with clients representing 43% of the 2018 revenue during the period and strong operational metrics were delivered”… The shares are currently approaching 20% lower, below 8p. Hmmm…

A “Trading Update” from On the Beach Group (OTB), “the UK's leading online retailer for beach holidays”. This following the company reckoning in May “the resilient and flexible nature of our business model allows us to focus on profitable growth and gives us confidence in the group's outlook” but we reporting the following month, with the shares then at 460p, that a Top broker predicts THREE profits warnings, lashes poor quality of City analysis. And now…

Previously writing on Pennant International (PEN), in May, with the shares falling below 100p, I noted “potential delay” of a major contract & director spoofing concluding that the director share developments and clear order challenges saw my stance to sell / bargepole. Now a “Pre-Close Trading Update”…

Cosmetics company Warpaint London (W7L) has updated including that it “continues to see encouraging international sales growth, in particular in the EU and the US”. But what about overall performance? – the shares are currently below 60p, approaching 30% lower on the day. Uh oh…

Early last month freight management services company Xpediator (XPD) announced board changes including seeing “the Operating Board now consists of eight extremely experienced, energetic professionals and we are well positioned to take the business forward to the next stage”, with “trading in line with market expectations. Demand for freight management services remains strong across all three divisions and the group is benefiting from increased activity”. No fears re. a “Trading Statement” today then, surely?…

Previously writing on supplier of audio and visual content to organisations Immedia Group (IME), in May with the shares at 22.5p I concluded certainly it’s the cash flow to be monitored here currently – and I’d listen to the market and currently avoid. Today an intra-day (10:27am) “Trading Update”. Uh oh…

From automotive retailer Pendragon (PDG) last month, it was “Outcome of Financial & Operational Review”… as suggested, it ain’t positive!. Today a half-year trading update from peer Lookers (LOOK)…

Previously updating in early May, “data science led agency and consulting business” Jaywing (JWNG) noted “a year of solid progress… We have seen encouraging growth in Epiphany, our online performance marketing division, and also in our fast-growing operations in Australia… Jaywing will announce its preliminary results for the year ended 31st March 2019 in July” but also “ongoing challenging market conditions within the UK and continued uncertainty surrounding its anticipated withdrawal from the European Union”. Now a further “Trading Statement” – and at an intra-day 11:37am. Uh oh…

Remote meetings technology group LoopUp (LOOP) has updated on trading commencing; “The group continues to see strong demand for the LoopUp product. In addition to a £2.34 million contract renewal with leading global law firm, Clifford Chance, new landmark accounts wins during H1 2019 include a major European investment management association, a leading television broadcaster in Australasia, the world's largest private dispute resolution provider, and numerous major international law firms… However,”… Uh oh…

An announcement from industrial applications LED lighting company Dialight (DIA); “Trading update and Directorate changes”. Those two together don’t tend to bode well – and we also cautioned here on an April update which emphasised “continued to make progress in our recovery”, but also included “results to be heavily weighted to H2, reflecting both the ongoing resolution of our operational issues and normal industry seasonality”…

Craneware (CRW) has updated commencing that “the group has continued to make progress on its long-term strategic aim to become ubiquitous in US Hospitals, as the intelligence layer sitting across all other systems, delivering the information required to improve financial and operational performance” and including CEO Keith Neilson stating that “as we close our financial year, we continue to look to the future with high levels of confidence”. The shares are currently around 2000p (currently equating to circa $25.35) – Er… down more than 30%!...

An 07:41am “Trading update” from floor coverings company Airea (AIEA). Hmmm – a difficult sector currently and a rushed ‘update’?...

A 1st May AGM trading update saw project management group RPS (RPS) state “the Australian property market, as anticipated, remained subdued. However, the transport sector was strong, and the acquisition of Corview in February 2019 further strengthens the group's position in this market. There are indications of improved performance in both segments in the second quarter”. Now a further trading update; “in Australia”…

Not so long ago Neil Woodford was telling his investors that fully-listed Kier Group (KIE) was just the perfect investment. Then came the rights issue which flopped and fell to the underwriters. And then came the admission that it had mis-stated its debt position. And then a new CEO who immediately launched a strategic review. And then a profit warning. And yesterday The Times reported that Kier was looking at off-loading its house building arm as its suppliers were being refused insurance on Kier’s bills. But of course Neil knew best: as the shares collapsed from well over £8 a pop ahead of the rights issue fiasco to close yesterday at a new low point of 130.8p, until his Equity Income Fund was gated, Neil was keenly buying up ever more of Kier’s shares,, taking his stake to 20% at the peak.

In April I wrote on automotive retailer Pendragon (PDG) update suggests ‘operational and financial prospects’ review ain’t going to be positive. The shares were then around 23p and are now falling well below 20p on the back of “Outcome of Financial & Operational Review”…

I have been in a Ted Baker (TED) shop and - as it happens - I do have a couple of Ted Baker-branded items. I have never really worked out why it was successful though and certainly - erroneously it seems for many years - have never got to close to actually investing in the retailer. Given the share has fallen today to a six year plus low, I am not that disappointed…

Its previous coverage on this website was Nigel Somerville’s Easter Red Flags at Night: Modern Water FY results a washout – SELL!, now an intra-day (10:55am) “Trading Update” from Modern Water (MWG). I’ve got a feeling this ain’t going to be a positive update!...

Previously writing on automotive acoustic and thermal insulation group Autins (AUTG), in March I noted the shares up to 34p to buy on the back of Chairman & CEO (though the announcement doesn’t seem sure!) share purchases. However, I noted these small and following results showing finances further deteriorating. Now a “Trading Update”…

Business and company sales group K3 Capital (K3C) has updated commencing, “The board is very pleased to report that adjusted EBITDA is expected to be at the upper end of the market guidance provided in the recent trading update on 5 April 2019”. Hmmm – adjusted EBITDA and why not remind of what that prior ‘market guidance’ was?...

Previously writing on Gooch & Housego (GHH), in April I stated announces “in line with management's expectations”… but not with expectations less than 6 weeks before the period-end!. On half-year results, the shares are though further materially lower today…

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear. I can’t help it: I told you so. Shares in fully-listed Kier Group (KIE) have dropped by 40% (last seen) this morning, after a big profit warning, to just 165p. Neil Woodford – who knows best – had been hoovering up stock all the way down since the calamitous rights issue last December at 409p – itself a huge discount to the price Woodford was paying when he first bought in. It is yet another in a long stream of terrible calls by the great man, but I wonder if it will prove to be the last. But heck, the £50 million up in smoke on this call alone today is only other people's money.

From castings and engineering group Chamberlin (CMH), an intra-day (12:35pm) “Trading Update”. Uh oh…

A “Trading Update” from Netcall (NET) – and the shares currently down more than 9%, at 51.5p, on it. This despite “cloud bookings have continued their strong performance with year over year growth of 160% to £6.5m”, including “public sector customers ordering the group's newly launched Low-code cloud offerings”…

Previously writing on LED lighting and electro-mechanical systems group LPA (LPA), in March I concluded, with the shares at 114.5p, ahead of detail of just how much the first half has been ‘affected’, I’d suggest at best on the watchlist. I currently continue to avoid. Now an intra-day (3:43pm) update (uh oh), but it a “Trading Update & Contract Wins”. Hmmm…

Writing on content software tools and cloud services business Stilo International (STL) following results in March, I questioned “significant financial overheads associated with being a public listed company” worth it? – and concluded, though the shares then down to 2.35p, to avoid / sell. Now, on the back of a “Trading Statement”, the shares are down at below 1.5p…

“Trading Update” and “Change of Leadership” announcements from Low & Bonar (LWB). I’m guessing the former ain’t going to be good then!...

Previously writing on recruitment and training group Staffline (STAF), in March I concluded announced contract wins likely useful further business – though not sufficient to alter a view that some clean delivery with strong net cash generation is now required here (and that before even considering any Brexit-related future uncertainties). Today a “Trading Update” commencing, “The ongoing Brexit uncertainty is impacting the UK labour market”. Uh oh…

“UK focused retailer and manufacturer of PVCu replacement windows and doors for the homeowner market”, Safestyle UK (SFE) has updated commencing; “Following the progress made during H2 2018 in stabilising the business, phase two of our turnaround plan is now well underway. Our focus for phase two continues to be on recovering volumes and market share, restoring our operational effectiveness, reducing our costs and enhancing our margins. We remain on track to conclude this phase at the end of 2019 and then plan to move into phase three in 2020 which has a primary focus on accelerating our growth”. Sounds decent enough – and the shares have currently responded… er, to below 80p; circa 15% down!…

Portmeirion, Spode, Wax Lyrical, Royal Worcester and Pimpernel ceramics and home fragrances group Portmeirion (PMP) has updated on trading. With 21st March-announced results having included “we look forward into 2019 with confidence”, should be ok…

Previously writing on touch sensors company Zytronic (ZYT), in October - with the shares at 387.5p - I cautioned despite the company arguing “several opportunities in its pipeline with the potential to improve future performance materially”. Today a further “Trading Update”…

Less than two years ago provider of infrastructure services to the UK housebuilding and commercial sectors, Nexus Infrastructure (NEXS) was, at 185p per share, “delighted to announce the successful completion of our IPO on the AIM Market… as a quoted company we look forward to the future with confidence”. The company’s December 2018-announced results were headlined “Delivery of profits in line with management expectations and strong order book provides forward earnings visibility” – and now a “Trading Update and Notice of Results”…

Geotechnical engineering company Van Elle (VANL) has updated commencing, “The business continues to make good progress on its transition plan, announced in January”. The shares have responded higher – but a still sub 50p share price compares to 80p at the start of 2019…

A “Directorate Change” announcement follows an “Interim Management Statement” from automotive retailer Pendragon (PDG) – and the shares, at around 23p, are currently more than 10% below levels of earlier this week…

Previously writing on technology services provider to the entertainment industry, Zoo Digital (ZOO) it was in January from November “confident in the prospects” to now “significantly below expectations” – I concluding with the shares heading towards 60p that, despite CEO Stuart Green arguing “we are now enjoying a growth in orders from our largest clients and expect to add significant new accounts during the remainder of the second half”, to continue to avoid. Now a “Year End Trading Update”…

Previously writing on “manufacturer of fine tolerance injection moulded plastic parts mainly for the medical, automotive lighting and optics markets” Carclo (CAR), I concluded in January, with the shares then down to 55p, that the current result is a mess – and hopefully my prior caution was heeded. Still an avoid / sell. Now a “Year-End Trading Update” – and the shares currently down to around 20p!...

A yesterday after-market-close, 4:55pm, “Update on Trading” from plastic injection moulding and tooling, engineering products and boards and panels manufacturing group Tex Holdings (TXH). I’m guessing it ain’t going to be a positive one…

Previously writing on online gaming operator Stride Gaming (STR), I noted in November having been set to record a provision of £4m… £7.1m Gambling Commission fine. In February this year, the company updated including “trading performance since the start of the financial year has been broadly in line with the board's expectations”. Now a further “Trading update”…

A “Trading Update” from business and company sales specialist in the UK, K3 Capital (K3C)… and the shares currently at 135p in response – down more than 15%. Uh oh…

Whilst I wish the newly appointed Intu (INTU) CEO the best of luck (but surely as the old CFO he knows all the structural issues and a lot more) and I see Debenhams (DEB) continues to try to change whilst having materially negative like-for-like sales (not easy to say the least), the key regulatory news statement for me today has to be Saga (SAGA)...

In December I again cautioned on instant-service vending equipment provider Photo-Me International (PHTM), noting a reliance on a swift about-turn from “large order lags” in the current macro climate as the shares headed below 100p. Now, with the company’s year ending this month, a trading update…

Announcing a £54 million equity raise at 15p per share towards the end of January, Low & Bonar (LWB) emphasised “a number of key strategic initiatives to drive sustainable improvement in the group's performance and financial position were implemented during Financial Year 2018. Progress has been made in all of these areas… Further initiatives will be implemented during Financial Year 2019 and the board is confident that these actions will build a stronger business and one capable of delivering sustainable growth and attractive, sustainable returns”. Today a “Trading Update”…

Online retailer MySale (MYSL) has announced results for its half-year ended 31st December 2018, including CEO Carl Jackson stating “performance during the first half was disappointing, however we took immediate action to address the issues the group faced”. Already down from 35p before December-announced own goals, the shares are though currently materially further lower today – at around 12p…

Late November-announced half-year results saw Joe Grimmond, Chairman of “specialist in the design, manufacture and supply of plastic products” Coral Products (CRU), emphasise “delighted with the performance of the business in the first half… I am pleased to report that results to date are well ahead of the same period last year and that, in spite of the prevailing uncertainties of Brexit we remain confident of the groups future prospects”. And less than two weeks ago CEO Mick Wood was emphasising “it is an exciting time at Coral… we are proud to introduce a bespoke recycling unit into our business… confident that this recycling unit will help propel our business forward”. No worries for a trading update today then…

Previously writing on MediaZest (MDZ) last month, I commented contradictions everywhere – including that it “continues to make progress”. Now a “Trading Update”…

Last month one of the five had its denouement as AIM-listed Haydale (HAYD) had an emergency bailout  - as long predicted by me -  at only 2p. That left just four. My suspicion was that AIM-listed member of the Filthy Forty, Walcom (WALG) would be next with its head under the guillotine and the news there was only marginally better as death has been postponed to June.