Previously writing on packaging and automation machinery provider Mpac Group (MPAC), in March with the shares down to 250p I questioned how “encouraging” really were the results and the outlook? The shares most recently closed at 212.5p, but are currently up to 230p on the back of a half-year trading update – so how encouraging is its latest?

Previously writing on innovation management software and services company Sopheon (SPE), in January with the shares up to 680p I concluded cautiously considering the valuation and cash flows. What now following a further trading update and the shares currently at 620p?

Previously writing on designer, developer and international distributor of toys, games and giftware Character Group (CCT), in October with the shares at 445p I reviewed does a latest trading update provide the stabilisation I previously said was required? – concluding that I then continued to avoid. What about now results for the group’s half-year ended 28th February 2023 and with the shares now around 350p?

Previously writing on “data science and machine learning” technology company Insig AI (INSG), last month I concluded is there a funding reason for such an announcement to now be made?, I suggest very much caveat emptor here. Avoid/sell. Today trading, collaboration and “equity subscription” announcements.

Previously writing on transport data technology group Cordel (CRDL), in August with the shares up to 6.5p I noted I retained concerns. The shares most recently closed again at 6.5p, but what of them currently up to 8p on the back of a “New USA Major Contract Announcement”?

Malcolm Stacey will be celebrating again as Zoo Digital Group (ZOO) is “delighted” to announce its ‘globalisation management platform’ has been “adopted by major Hollywood studio to support content localisation rollout”. The shares have currently responded up by 12.5% to 184.5p, but how much should Malcolm & co be celebrating?

Previously writing on innovation management software and services company Sopheon (SPE), 17 months ago with the shares rising above 925p I concluded that I wasn’t prepared to pay a market cap of more than £100 million at that stage of ‘SaaS transition’ here. The shares most recently closed at 625p but are currently up to 680p on the back of a trading update. So what’s the situation now?

Previously writing on manufacturer of carbon fibre reinforced ceramic automotive brake discs Surface Transforms (SCE), in September with the shares at 40p I concluded that, with the financials uplift the valuation looked to demand, I still just continued to monitor from the sidelines. So what of today a “Trading and operations update” from the company… and the shares currently further down to 36p?

Previously writing on UK manufacturer of cake, bread and morning goods for both retail and foodservice Finsbury Food Group (FIF), in July I concluded that the shares were on the watchlist. So what now following an AGM trading statement?

Previously writing on parcel freight, secure courier and logistics services group DX (DX.), last month I noted following two years corporate governance shambles, a Chairman change EGM notice. So what now with results for its year ended 2nd July 2022?

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?

SRT Marine Systems (SRT) has announced results for its half-year ended 30th September 2022 emphasising “revenue increase to £18.8m (H1 2021 £4.7m)… £2.1m - profit after tax (H1 2021 Loss of £3.1m)… we expect this trend to continue going forward driven by fundamental long-term demand drivers for maritime domain awareness”. Sounds good – and what of a current 5.5% share price rise to 48p, an £86.7 million market cap?

Previously writing on construction and engineering industries professional services consultancy group Driver (DRV), in May with the shares at 32.5p I reviewed Middle East deal, set for significantly improved profitability?. So what of a latest trading update and the shares at 27p?

Having announced earlier this year that “CEO, Paul Fineman will, for personal reasons, be stepping down as Group Chief Executive Officer as of 1 March 2022. A search is commencing for a successor”, IG Design Group (IGR) is now, albeit more than 8 months later, “delighted to appoint” a new CEO. With this also following a CFO change in May, what’s the outlook now?

Previously writing on gift packaging, celebrations, craft & creative play, stationery, gifting and related group IG Design (IGR), in June I noted that the shares were on the watchlist. What now following a trading update for its half-year which includes “strong trading… sales, profits, margins and cash flow are expected to be significantly improved on the same period last year, and also ahead of the board's expectation for the period”?

Castings (CGS) has issued a trading statement including reporting “a more consistent conversion of forward schedules in the period. This strength continues to be reflected in the schedules that our OEM customers are providing… remain confident that the company will continue to trade in line with market expectations”. So what of a currently up to 310p share price, £135 million market cap?

Previously writing on SRT Marine Systems (SRT), last month with the shares at 28p I questioned how “material” is the half-year improvement?. So what of today a “half year trading update”?

‘Smart sensing’ software company serving life sciences, entertainment and engineering markets, Oxford Metrics (OMG) has announced “deferment of approximately £3.5m of shipments” due to global supply chain issues but that it has been able to mitigate the margin impact to some extent and “has continued to experience high levels of market demand and currently holds its largest ever level of orders-in-hand”. So what of a current share price response down to 83.5p?

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?

Online competitions to win cars and other lifestyle prizes company, Best of the Best (BOTB) states it is “pleased… to confirm that the company is trading in line with market expectations for the current financial year” and looks forward, “in due course”, to updating with more details on “strategic” growth moves. What does this latest mean in the context of a current 440p share price?

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.

Floor coverings company Airea (AIEA) states it “is pleased to announce the appointment of Mederic Payne as Chief Executive Officer”, emphasising he “is an experienced business leader with a strong background in multinational home improvement retail and wholesale”. Following also half-year results from the company last month, what’s the situation here now from a 28.5p share price?

Describing itself as “a world leader in Narrowband Radio Frequency Smart Mesh Networks, which are used for machine to machine communication”, CyanConnode (CYAN) has announced a largest-ever order of one million Omnimesh Modules, together with infrastructure, hardware, software, licencing and support. So what of the shares currently responding to 18.5p, more than 25% higher?

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?

Operator of 69 bars across the UK, trading mainly under the Revolution and Revolución de Cuba brands, Revolution Bars Group (RBG) states that it “is pleased to announce a trading and property related investment update for the year ended 2 July 2022”. With the shares having currently responded up a few percent to 15p, how ‘pleasing’ is the update?

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?

Provider of software and services to the publishing industry, Ingenta (ING) commences a trading update with that it “is pleased to confirm that trading in the six-month period to 30 June 2022 has shown a return to revenue growth” and the shares have currently responded up to 90.5p. However revenue is vanity, so what about the valuation?

Eneraqua Technologies (ETP) is “pleased to update that… trading in the first half of the year to 31 January 2023 has been encouraging” and that current global challenges are creating further demand for the work it does. So what of a share price currently slightly lower today to 260p?

Previously writing on floor coverings company Airea (AIEA), in March 2020 with the shares at 39p I concluded that there looked value potential but I’d want to see turnaround of the profit direction before considering from the watchlist. With the shares having last closed at 27.5p, what about the first half of this year?

Footwear retailer Shoe Zone (SHOE) has announced “trading has been stronger than expected… now expects adjusted profit before tax for FY 2022 to be not less than £9.5m”. So what of a current share price move up by 3% to 190p?

Mobile data computing and managed services to industry company Touchstar (TST) noted in April-announced results “short-term prospects are being tempered somewhat by a level of inactivity which we believe is a momentary reaction to the present economic and global uncertainty, with some orders being held up”. So what now of a half-year trading update?

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?

Previously writing on UK manufacturer of cake, bread and morning goods for both retail and foodservice Finsbury Food Group (FIF), in February with the shares falling to 86p I questioned whether it was successfully mitigating the impact of pressures. The shares last closed at 68p but are currently rising above 70p on the back of a trading update, so what’s the latest?

Previously writing on promotional products group 4imprint (FOUR), in May with the shares at 2900p I concluded that I’d continue to monitor but with the already-noted recovery the earnings and cash multiples meant I continued to avoid. The shares last closed at 2440p but are currently rising above 2900p on the back of a trading statement, so what’s the news?

Previously writing on homewares group Portmeirion (PMP), in May with the shares down to 435p I was cautious – noting ‘“encouraged that the group continues to grow”, but will that continue?’. The shares last closed at 410p but are currently 365p on the back of a trading update.

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?

Writing a year ago on UK bowling and ‘family entertainment’ centres group Ten Entertainment (TEG) I concluded with the shares at 248p whilst the demand situation normalises, currently on the watchlist. So what about now, following a trading update for its half year ended 26th June 2022?

Previously writing on omni-channel fashion company specialising in ‘occasion and dressy casual’ womenswear Quiz plc (QUIZ), in January with the shares up to 16.65p I concluded that the noted financials saw me remain cautious of a still more than £20 million market cap here. So what of now stated “very encouraging FY 2022 performance with very strong revenue growth and a return to profitability”, and the shares currently at 10.25p?

Online prize competitions company Best of the Best (BOTB) has made announcements today which have currently sparked the shares more than 20% higher to 475p. So what’s the news?...

Operator of 67 bars trading mainly under the Revolution and Revolucion de Cuba brands, Revolution Bars Group (RBG) has made a “Trading and Property Update” announcement – and what of the shares currently more than 7% higher in response, at 16.25p?...

Celebrations, gifting, craft & creative play, stationery and consumables group IG Design (IGR) is “very pleased” to “have agreed… extension to our facilities and to have the ongoing support of our banking partners”. What though of a share price response currently up by more than 20% to above 60p?...

Electrical components and control equipment group Dewhurst (DWHT) has announced a “Cyber Incident”, though also states that it “expects the impact to the underlying trading of the business to (be) minimal with revenues expected to remain broadly in line with current market expectations”. So what of a current more than 10% share price fall to 1250p?...

Earlier this month writing on construction and engineering industries professional services consultancy group Driver (DRV), I questioned is there to be a significant second half improvement?. What about now, following a “Middle East Update”...

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?...

Homewares group Portmeirion (PMP) has issued an AGM trading statement including that it “is encouraged that the group continues to grow and… confident that our ongoing strategic investments in factory automation and online platforms will enable future growth in top line sales and that ongoing improvements in productivity will further enhance margins over the long term”. So what of a share price currently of 435p, down over 8%?...

Writing on structural steel and construction safety company Billington (BILN) earlier this month with the shares at 225p after I previously noting ‘profit warning & how confident can it be for 2022 really?’, a further share price fall, it has now announced results emphasising some recovery for its markets and that its “order book continues at a consistently high level”. So what of a current below 220p share price?...

Security and surveillance systems company Synectics (SNX) has announced “trading in the first quarter of the new financial year was in line with the board's expectations… The company's consolidated order book as at 31 March 2022 was approximately £29.0 million (30 November 2021: £28.4 million) and the group's balance sheet remains strong with net cash of approximately £3.9 million at 31 March 2022”. So what of a current approaching 7% share price fall towards 116p?...

A “Notice of Results and Trading Updates”-titled announcement from structural steel and construction safety company Billington (BILN) sounds routine but, on a currently reasonable day for the markets, why are the shares down approaching 3.5% to 225p?...

Previously writing on cosmetics company Warpaint London (W7L), in June with the shares at 163.5p I concluded cautiously as the valuation already looked to factor in some clear earnings upside. The shares last closed at 124.5p, though are currently back up above 140p on the back of a trading update.

Previously writing on 600 Group (SIXH), in July with the shares at 13.5p I concluded I wanted further balance sheet and trading comfort before considering from the watchlist. Now a “Completion of Machine Tools Sale” announcement...

Previously writing on the company which describes itself as “the global leader in sustainable LED lighting for industrial applications” Dialight (DIA), in November with the shares at 325p I noted net debt and supply chain caution after half-year revenue +9% to £60.2 million and net debt up to £12 million. So what of now the full-year 2021 results?…

Northbridge Industrial Services (NBI) has made an update with the disposal of the Tasman drilling equipment and services division now substantially complete. So what of a share price rise to a current 167.5p?…

Describing itself as “the UK’s leading tile specialist”, Topps Tiles (TPT) has announced “Acquisition of Pro Tiler Ltd & Q2 Trading Update”. So what of a share price currently up to above 59p?…

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?…

Franchise Brands (FRAN) and Filta Group (FLTA) “are pleased to announce that they have reached agreement on the terms of a recommended all share offer by Franchise Brands for Filta”. However, shares in both are currently down on the news, so what’s the story?…

Marketing decision-making platform group System1 (SYS1) has made a third quarter trading update noting revenue growth and “profitability was in line with management’s expectations”, so why a current more than 9% lower share price response to below 400p?…

Provider of fryer management and other services to commercial kitchens, Filta Group (FLTA) has announced a “trading update” including CEO Jason Sayers “delighted with the group’s performance in 2021 despite the ongoing challenges from Covid-19… significant growth in revenue, whilst managing these challenges”. So what of the shares, having currently responded up to 143.5p?…

Previously writing on drinks company with brands including IRN-BRU, Rubicon and Funkin A.G. Barr (BAG), in November with the shares at 520p I concluded that whilst a long-term buy looks cogently arguable, still just on my watchlist. The shares last closed just below 500p, but a trading update today has helped them back across this level – so what’s the latest?…

Arts, crafts, stationery, toys and books retailer TheWorks (WRKS) has announced results for its half-year ended 31st October 2021 and an update on subsequent trading which currently has helped the shares up by more than 14% to 64.6p, a £40.4 million market cap. So what’s the story?…

Clothing, accessories and footwear company Superdry (SDRY) has announced results for its half-year ended 23rd October 2021 and a trading update for the subsequent 11 weeks, emphasising “clear signs of brand and financial recovery”. So what’s the story with the shares currently at circa 230p in response, 8% lower!…

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…

Omni-channel fashion company specialising in ‘occasion and dressy casual’ womenswear Quiz plc (QUIZ) states it “is pleased to announce an update on trading for the period between 1 December 2021 to 31 December 2021 and its current cash position” – and the shares have currently responded up to 16.65p, but are still down from the 17.7p when I previously wrote on them last month.

Previously writing on “mobile-first digital media business, which owns Entertainment Daily, The Daily Mash and The Tab” Digitalbox (DBOX), last month on the shares rising towards 10p on the back of a trading update I asked what about the bottom-line? Today a further trading update following the end of the company’s (calendar) year, so some further insight?…

SRT Marine Systems (SRT) has made an announcement titled “£40 million SRT-MDA System Project Award”… and the shares have currently responded more than 10% higher to 47p. So what’s the detail?…

Despite even last year personal care, beauty and fragrance products company Creightons (CRL) managing to announce results for its half-year to 30th September on 9th December, this year they are not announced until a ‘no-one-watching-week’ 30th December. Do they show reason for concern?…

Previously writing on ventilation systems and window and door hardware company Titon Holdings (TON), last month with the shares at 109p I concluded that the numbers suggest the shares of potential interest but, ahead of the full-year results with the boardroom flux, only on the watchlist. Today the full-year results, and the shares currently down to 107.5p…

Previously writing on the UK’s largest ten-pin bowling operator Hollywood Bowl (BOWL), in October with the shares around 243p I concluded I’d monitor from the watchlist with particular interest in the balance sheet and an update on trading. The shares are currently slightly further lower at 229p on the back of the group’s year ended 30th September 2021 results announcement, so how are the financials and outlook?…

Omni-channel womenswear company Quiz plc (QUIZ) has announced results for its half-year ended 30th September 2021, emphasising “increased demand for the QUIZ brand contributes to revenue growth, a return to EBITDA profitability and stronger operating cash inflows”… but the shares are currently approaching 4% lower at 17.70p. So what’s the detail?…

Previously writing on security and surveillance systems company Synectics (SNX), on its half-year results with the shares at 133.5p I reviewed the return to profit potential and concluded then just on the watchlist. Today a trading update and the shares up…but to 112.5p. What’s the latest?…

Cyber Security services group Falanx (FLX) has announced results for its half-year ended 30th September 2021 and “good trading so far in the second half of the year”. So what of a currently just slightly up 1.275p share price?…

Franco Manca and The Real Greek restaurants company Fulham Shore (FUL) has announced results for its half-year ended 26th September 2021 and emphasises “continued buoyant current trading ahead of management’s expectations”. Sounds good…but what does it mean financially?…

Describing itself as a “mobile-first digital media business, which owns Entertainment Daily, The Daily Mash and The Tab”, Digitalbox (DBOX) has made a trading update which currently sees the shares, at approaching 10p, circa 40% higher. So what’s the story?…

Shares in drinks company with brands including IRN-BRU, Rubicon and Funkin, A.G. Barr (BAG) are currently 11% higher today, at 520p, on the back of a trading update. So what’s the story?…

Cybersecurity group Shearwater (SWG) has announced results for its half-year ended 30th September 2021, emphasising “Enhanced margins across the group and strong adjusted EBITDA growth”. So what of a share price still down from around 140p at the start of the month to just over 120p?…

Previously writing on ‘celebrations, craft, gifting, stationery and creative play products’ group IG Design (IGR), last month with the shares down to around 300p I concluded that its challenges made the valuation still look ‘challenging’. The shares are currently up today on the back of half-year results, but are 245p. So what’s the story now?…

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?…

Online prize competitions company Best of the Best (BOTB) has made a trading update including that it “remains confident about the prospects for the business, both in the second half of the financial year and beyond”. Why then are the shares still around the mid 600p’s compared to 1600p as recently as August?…

Ventilation systems and window and door hardware company Titon Holdings (TON) announced in September that non-executives Bernd Ratzke and Kevin Sargeant had given notice of their intention to step down, noting that it “is going through a transitional period following the appointment of Mat Norris as CEO. Matt has settled in very well and will lead the group in the next stage of its development to drive growth in all of our businesses”. Today… “Chief Executive Officer resignation”!

Shares in marketing consultancy group System1 (SYS1) are currently lower today at 360p on the back of a “Complaint for Trademark Infringement” announcement, but are still well up from 250p before a trading update last month. So what’s the story here at present?…

Engineering and Technology recruitment company Gattaca (GATC) has announced results for its year ended 31st July 2021 and that “since February we have seen the markets returning to growth across the majority of our major sectors, which has led to a candidate short market”. Why then currently a share price down 13.5% at below 180p?…

Previously writing on Image Scan Holdings (IGE), in September I reviewed does “Trading Update – New Orders” announcement justify 40% share price rise? – concluding with the shares at 3.35p I’d review a pre-close update scheduled for the next month and the subsequent results detail, but only on my watchlist. Today the pre-close trading update…

Previously writing on footwear retailer Shoe Zone (SHOE), last month with the shares at 80p I concluded that a potential value buy could be argued but that there was outlook uncertainty. Is this cleared up with a further trading update now?…

Cleaning, hygiene and decontamination group REACT (REAT) has made a trading update following earlier this month-announced contract wins which included they “towards a return to business-as-usual for a number of our customers” and “highlights the quality and depth of work being provided by the specialist teams within the group”. The shares had subsequently maintained a 2.25p+ price…but are currently falling below 2p. Why?…

Previously writing on industrial communications products company Filtronic (FTC) I avoided the shares, concluding there looks some way to go to justify a £19 million+ market capitalisation and there’s also a disappointing recent years’ track record to overcome. The shares had recently led it to an above £27 million market cap, but there is currently a sharp fall back today on an AGM Statement…

Braemar Shipping Services (BMS) has made a trading update including that it now expects full-year underlying operating profit to be 15% ahead of its previous guidance. The shares have responded up to above 263p, but is there further to go?…

Previously writing on bathroom and kitchen products company Norcros (NXR), in February 2020 I noted a set-to-be-impacted year and avoided as the shares slid from 291p. They last closed at 290p but now a trading update sees them up to above 320p.

Previously writing on footwear retailer Shoe Zone (SHOE), in March with the shares at 70p I concluded that I’ll monitor the net cash generation going forward to see if it is recovering to justify that, but currently still only on the watchlist. The shares last closed at 66.5p but are currently 80p on the back of a trading update, so what’s the situation here now?…

Previously writing on UK neighbourhood retailer with over 1,200 stores McColl’s (MCLS), in August with the shares falling below 30p I noted confirms “a potential capital raise” though how much will there be left after sufficiently strengthening the balance sheet? (strongest performance from Morrisons Daily stores – there only 31 at 29th November 2020). Today a “opens 100th Morrisons Daily store” announcement, so what of the shares now around 23p?…

The UK’s largest ten-pin bowling group Hollywood Bowl (BOWL) states it “today announces a trading update for the financial year ended 30 September 2021” and emphasises “very strong customer demand following estate reopening”. What then of a little changed share price around 243p?…

Revolution Bars Group (RBG) has made a trading update including that since 19th July England covid restrictions removal to 2nd October “same site sales growth of 17% when compared to the same period 2 years ago, when the business traded normally pre Covid” and “costs have continued to be well controlled resulting in good profit generation from these sales”, with the shares currently up by more than 12% to above 25p in response.

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?…

Though still well down from my caution after it listed in 2017 (for example HERE), shares in fashion retailer Quiz plc (QUIZ) have recently been rising strongly after my most recent caution. However, the company has today announced full-year results and the shares are currently back below 20p in response, more than 20% lower. So what’s the story now?…

Technology company to defence and related markets Cohort (CHRT) has updated on trading including that it “entered the new financial year with a substantial long-term order book of £242.4m, underpinning nearly £100m (2020: £84m) of current financial year revenue, representing 64% of expected consensus revenue for the year… the order book stood at just under £300m as at 16 September 2021, with revenue cover now standing at 82%”. So what of a currently lower share price of 568p?…

Inkjet printing technology company Xaar (XAR) has announced results for the first half of 2021, emphasising “continued strong performance with positive momentum in the business”. The shares last closed at 227p, capitalising the company at £178 million, but are currently down towards 200p. So why?…

A “Trading Update – New Orders”-titled announcement from Image Scan Holdings (IGE) sees the shares in response currently, at 3.35p, 40% higher. Is this justifiable?…

Collectibles group Scholium (SCHO) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2021 emphasising “a significant and encouraging increase in online sales across Shapero Rare Books, Modern Prints and Mayfair Philatelics” and that it “is now trading profitably in the first four months of the current year”. So why a current more than 6.5% share price fall to 28.5p?…

Previously writing on enterprise innovation management technology and services company Sopheon (SPE), in June with the shares at 925p I concluded that with all the change, following “review”, and the current valuation, I’ll continue to monitor but on the shares currently continue to avoid. They last closed at 880p but are currently above the June price on the back of half-year results. So, what’s the story?…

I wrote yesterday on TP Group (TPG) what we’ve got here is failure to…‘engage in a constructive manner’, concluding that it should engage with Science Group (SAG) given financial concern and the track record. Today from TP Group “Statement on Rejection of Indicative Proposal”.

Previously writing on defence, aerospace & energy technology and services group TP (TPG), last week with the shares at 5.2p I suggested further swift changes are needed from TP Group otherwise Science Group may well be able to negotiate a very hard bargain indeed. Today a further statement from Science Group (SAG)…

Shares in recruitment group RTC (RTC) are currently down 11p today to 54p – but that after a prior close of 35.5p and having commenced 2021 at 42.5p, so what’s going on?…

Following Science Group (SAG) informing that it had acquired a 10.2% shareholding, TP Group (TPG) has noted “recent speculation and announces that it has received an approach from Science Group plc regarding a possible offer” – and Science Group has responded. With shares in TP Group currently up 33% at 5.2p, what’s the detail?…

Having been above 100p as recently as April, shares in biopharmaceutical data analytics company IXICO (IXI) are currently further lower at 72p despite a trading update including that “the company has successfully grown its pipeline of new opportunities”. So what’s going on?…

Engineered electronics company TT Electronics (TTG) has announced results for the first half of 2021, emphasising “expected revenues for 2021 fully covered and order book visibility for 2022 is building nicely and ahead of where it would normally be at this stage of the year”. What of the valuation, with the shares currently up to 277p in response?…

Self-styled “global media and technology platform that offers proprietary AI products and solutions to harvest video moments” SEEEN plc (SEEN) has made a trading update emphasising “rapid growth of demand for relevant short form video” as it is “shifting from product development to sales and marketing”. With also the shares down from above 50p reached in May to 44p, opportunity?…

Previously writing on IRN-BRU, Rubicon, Funkin and more drinks company A.G. Barr (BAG), last month with the shares at 530p I concluded decent growth from here would see this valuation become attractive… I’ll look out for the further detail scheduled for next month. Today a half-year trading update…

Previously writing on windows and doors manufacturer and retailer Safestyle UK (SFE), in May with the shares at 62p I concluded risks saw the attempted recovery only on the watchlist. Today an update including that it now “expects 2021’s full year financial performance to be ahead of current market expectations”…but the shares currently at 57p?…

Reviewing on industrial engineering company 600 Group (SIXH) “loan note restructuring”, adding to business recovery? last week, I concluded with this loan notes move now announced, the results announcement could follow soon – it was 10th July in 2019 – and I’ll review again on that. Today a “Trading Update and Notice of Results”…

Self-styled “a leading B2B media business specialising in three key areas: Business Information, Events and Data & Analytics” Bonhill Group (BONH) has made a trading update including that it “is pleased to announce that trading in the period is in line with market expectations for the year ending 31 December 2021” and “market conditions continue to improve”. Why are the shares currently below 13p, compared to more than 17p reached in April?…

Industrial engineering company 600 Group (SIXH) “is pleased to announce the successful restructuring of the company’s 2022 8% loan notes and associated warrants to subscribe for new ordinary shares in the company at a price of 20 pence per new ordinary share”. What’s the impact of this, with the shares up from 10.75p when I previously commented on them to a current 13.75p?…

Homewares group Portmeirion (PMP) has made a trading update emphasising pleasing sales growth, including “it is particularly pleasing to see that we are achieving like-for-like sales growth over pre Covid-19 trading levels”. Why then are the shares currently slightly lower at 655p?…

Previously writing on security and surveillance systems company Synectics (SNX), last month with the shares at 133.5p I noted the company plans to reinstate guidance on future trading with half-year results on 13th July but I suggest that’s not going to be particularly positive for this year at least. How is it?…

“Omni-channel fashion brand” company QUIZ plc (QUIZ) has made a trading update including noting “a £13.1m increase on the revenues generated during the comparable prior year period from 1 April to 30 June 2020” – and the shares have currently responded more than 20% higher to above 12p. Does this response to an around £15 million market cap look justified?…

There is a “Trading and operations update” announcement today from carbon ceramic brake discs company Surface Transforms (SCE). Hopefully it’s good news as reader Russ (hi) will likely get dreadfully upset if reporting otherwise (as well as that this is not a 100+ page review of the carbon ceramic brake disc industry).

Previously writing on aircraft charter, safety & security company Air Partner (AIR), in January with the shares around 68p I concluded they remained on the watchlist. They last closed at 81p and are currently further higher on the back of an “AGM Statement and Positive Trading Update”-titled announcement. So what’s the detail and current value?…

Beauty, personal care and life sciences products company InnovaDerma (IDP) has made a trading statement including “despite the continued impact of COVID-19 restrictions, and the unseasonably poor weather in the UK over April and May, revenues for the year have performed broadly in line with expectations… we have made strong progress in rebuilding our gross margin”. So why then have the shares responded to 35p, more than 10% lower?…

Previously writing on UK tenpin bowling and ‘family entertainment’ centres group Ten Entertainment (TEG), in September I concluded I’ll continue to monitor for further updates…on the watchlist. With the positive vaccines news, the shares reached 200p in November and 260p+ in May. So what now, with they currently at 248p on the back of a half-year trading update?…

Ceramic products company Churchill China (CHH) “is pleased to provide an update in relation to trading for the six months ended 30 June 2021” and the shares have currently responded further higher to 1762.5p. What’s the update and what’s discounted in the share price?…

A “Connect Partner Programme & Q1 Contract Wins”-titled announcement from cybersecurity provider Intercede Group (IGP) sees the shares currently 13% higher at 115p. Does this response look justifiable?…

Gyms operator Gym Group (GYM) has announced “successful completion” of a placing raising a gross £31.2 million. How ‘successful’ is the placing and what’s the outlook from here?…

Previously writing on bioplastics and radio frequency systems company Biome Technologies (BIOM), in April with the shares at 350p I concluded ‘assembling the drivers for growth’ and enquiries are very different to the delivery of profitable growth and the market cap here is still above £13 million. As such, at this juncture, still only on my watchlist. The shares last closed at 480p but are currently slumping back towards previous levels on the back of a trading update. So what’s happened?…

Manufacturer of plastic and paperboard packaging Robinson (RBN) has updated on trading including “sales in the first five months of the year are 17% ahead of the same period in 2020”. So why are the shares, at 112.5p, currently approaching 20% lower?…

Online musical instruments and music equipment retailer Gear4music (G4M) has announced results for its year ended 31st March 2021 including that it “does not currently expect to achieve the same level of full year profitability during FY22 that the group achieved during FY21”, yet the shares are currently 3.5% higher at 960p. Why’s that?…

A trading update from operator of 173 café/bar/restaurants across England and Wales under the Lounge and Cosy Club brands, Loungers plc (LGRS) includes “like for like sales over the four-week period from 17 May through to 13 June 2021 were +26.6%, using the period 20 May to 16 June 2019 as the comparator”. The stock of recovery interest?…

Despite covid response-related inefficiencies and challenges, alcohol drinks brands owner Distil plc (DIS) is “pleased to report another year of increased profit, revenue growth and continued investment in our brands” and the shares have currently responded up to 2.40p. Is there further potential?…

An “AGM Statement” announcement from cosmetics company Warpaint London (W7L)…and the shares are currently approaching 17% higher on the day at 163.5p. What’s the story?…

Previously writing on Brave Bison Group (BBSN), a couple of years ago I concluded negatively with the shares down towards 1.5p as it was gouged by Facebook’s new policies & no warning at the time (why not?!). Today an “AGM Statement” sees the shares currently approaching 8% higher on the day. So what’s the story now?…

Previously writing on Nexus Infrastructure (NEXS), in February I concluded with the trading recovery required from here and indeed the noted pre-Covid performance, I continue to avoid. What of results for its half-year ended 31st March 2021 then?…

Self-styled “the leading UK focused retailer and manufacturer of PVCu replacement windows and doors for the homeowner market”, Safestyle UK (SFE) is “pleased to report… trading and financial performance has continued in line with recently increased market expectations”, including “order book remains at levels similar to 2021’s strong opening position which continues to provide good visibility of near-term revenues”. Sounds encouraging, but what are the specifics?…

Shares in PHSC plc (PHSC), a “provider of health, safety, hygiene and environmental consultancy services and security solutions”, are currently more than 20% higher today at 17p on the back of “Trading Update” and “Commencement of Share Buyback Programme” announcements. Of investment interest?…

SmartSpace Software (SMRT) has announced results for its year ended 31st January 2021, emphasising “pleased to report a year of good progress for the group in its transition to a cloud-based SaaS business” and “positive momentum continued post year end”. What then of the shares currently slightly lower to 142.5p?…

Industrial and commercial equipment company H C Slingsby (SLNG) has announced results for 2020 including “sales of £21.8m (2019: £19.6m)… profit before taxation and exceptional items of £1.1m (2019: £0.2m)”. Does this justify a current approaching 15% share price rise to 270p?…

Previously writing on a trading update from cosmetics company Warpaint London (W7L), with the shares at 123p I noted the net cash detail means a lot less without the other information – are the flows even sustainable?, concluding I’ll monitor for further financial details but currently still only on the watchlist. Today full-year results…

Inkjet printing technology company Xaar (XAR) has announced results for the 2020 calendar year, with which it is “pleased… as they demonstrate that our strategy is working”. The shares have currently responded towards 140p, er more than 6% lower!…

Mobile data computing solutions and managed services company Touchstar (TST) “is pleased to announce its final results for the year ended 31 December 2020” and includes that it “has made a better-than-expected start to 2021”. So why are the shares, at 74p, currently nearly 13% lower in response?…

Previously writing on bioplastics and radio frequency technologies company Biome (BIOM) I questioned coffee-pod filtration material contract, share price rise justified?. That was to 375p. The shares last closed at 380p but are currently down to 350p on the back of a trading update. What’s this latest then?…

A trading update from cosmetics company Warpaint London (W7L) includes that it “is pleased to report that improved trading has continued to be experienced in the first quarter of 2021… sales for the first three months of 2021 are ahead of the same period in 2020”. The shares have responded currently more than 13% higher to 123p, but what’s the detail?…

Previously writing on alcohol drinks brands company Distil (DIS) I noted I’d want to see sustained meaningful positive impact from the ‘up-weighted marketing investment’ to reconsider my cautious stance. What then from a now “pleased to provide” trading update for its year ended 31st March 2021?…

Designer and manufacturer of computer boards for particularly the defence and telecommunications industries, Concurrent Technologies (CNC) has announced 2020 results, noting “record revenue for the year of £21.14m (2019: £19.38m)” and a “record order book, which has seen a substantial increase during the first quarter of 2021”. Why then have the shares currently responded to below 100p, more than 7% lower?…

A “secures major City of London project”-titled announcement from security and surveillance systems company Synectics (SNX) and the shares currently up 11% in response, to 150p. Justified?…

Previously writing on Gulf Marine Services (GMS), in November with the shares at 7.9p I concluded negatively with its debt mountain and uncertainty. The shares last closed at 5.85p but are currently above 7p on the back of news that the company emphasises represents “A New Dawn”…

The 14th December 2020-announced results from ten-pin bowling group Hollywood Bowl (BOWL) emphasised “strong balance sheet… liquidity of £31.8m” and included that “the directors are satisfied that the group has adequate resources to continue in operation for the foreseeable future, a period of at least 12 months from the date of this report”. It now announces “successful completion of the placing… at a price of 230 pence per placing share, raising gross proceeds of approximately £30.0 million”. Hmmm…

SmartSpace Software (SMRT) has made a trading update for its year ended 31st January 2021 including emphasising SaaS revenues up by 73% year-on-year and annual recurring revenue +60% along with “there are frequent articles in the media on Covid-safe workplaces, hybrid working and returning to the office and this is reflected in our sales enquiries as we offer solutions to help our clients manage this transition”. So why are the shares currently around 130p, 6% lower?…

Previously writing on beauty and personal care products group Brand Architekts (BAR), in November 2019 with the shares around 165p I concluded it means a current market cap of around £28 million, with, after the Manufacturing business disposal, there £24 million net cash and a seemingly profitable owned brands business. Some might thus consider a speculative buy here but, currently with concerns on how it uses the cash pile and the trading outlook, for me it’s on the watchlist. Today “pleased to be reporting” half-year results from the company, with the shares currently at 157.5p, a circa £27 million market cap…

Previously writing on footwear retailer Shoe Zone (SHOE), last month I concluded that I continue to consider there is likely future recovery potential from a now 54p per share, £27 million market cap, valuation here but the current balance sheet uncertainty sees this presently only on my watchlist. So what of results now for its year ended 3rd October 2020?…

Previously writing on Revolution Bars Group (RBG) in December with the shares back up above 22p I questioned what state the balance sheet would be in by the ‘path towards a gradual recovery’. Today an update from the company…

Previously writing on soft drinks company Nichols (NICL), in January I reviewed share price decline towards 1150p despite it arguing Vimto & International business positives – concluding I monitored on the watchlist but to avoid the shares. Today results for the 2020 calendar year emphasising “Resilient financial performance despite challenging trading conditions”, but the shares further lower at 1100p?…

Previously writing on transport industries technology provider Tracsis (TRCS), in August as the shares rose to 640p I concluded that I continued to consider the valuation high at that juncture, based on the suggested numbers and continuing uncertainty, and thus still avoided. The shares previously closed at 658p, before today a trading update…

Specialist supplier of colour cosmetics and owner of the W7 and Technic brands, Warpaint London (W7L) “is pleased to announce that the contract with Ward & Hagon, has been renewed for a further 12 months”. I bet one Warpaint London director is particularly pleased…

Previously writing on footwear retailer Shoe Zone (SHOE), in November with the shares at 56p I concluded cautiously on “Date of Final Results” announcement is actually much more. Today another “Date of Final Results”… and again there is more information than just that…

Sports, leisure and mobility equipment group Tandem (TND) has made a trading update including that “unaudited group revenue for the full year was approximately £37.1 million” and “revenue to the end of January 2021 was approximately 75% ahead of the same period last year”. So what of a now 545p share price, £27.5 million market cap, it is up to?…

A “Post close trading update” from professional business services group Christie (CTG) and the shares currently, at 95.5p, approaching 10% higher in response. Is there recovery value?…

A trading update from Biome Technologies (BIOM) includes “strong annual revenue growth of 65% in the Bioplastics”. So why are the shares in response, at around 210p, more than 4.5% lower?…

Previously writing on ‘enterprise innovation management’ software and services company Sopheon (SPE), in July with the shares at 870p I questioned “delighted to partner with Mondelēz”… but share price delight justified?. Today a trading update…

Writing on aircraft charter, safety & security company Air Partner (AIR), at the end of September with the shares at 72p I concluded I’d still cash-in here and monitor trading from the watchlist. Today a trading update…

Previously writing on cosmetics company Warpaint London (W7L), in November with the shares at 69p I concluded there does look further recovery potential here. Now I suggest at least worthy of watchlists. The shares last closed at 84p and are currently above 90p on the back of a trading update…

Geospatial software group IQGeo (IQG) “is pleased to announce a significant new contract for software and services with a major tier 1 Canadian telecoms network operator” – and the shares have responded higher to above 82p and comparing with a start of the year below 60p. Is this justified?…

A trading update from retail management, payment and loyalty systems group Universe (UNG) includes “revenue for the second half of the year is expected to be in line with that of the first half… the company still expects to report a modest level of adjusted EBITDA profitability for the full year” and that it “has a strong financial position”. So why an approaching 12% share price fall, to 3.75p, on the back of the update?…

Revolution Bars Group (RBG) has announced full-year results and, in line with the heroic Tim Martin of J D Wetherspoon, hit out at “nothing short of scandalous” government actions…

M&C Saatchi (SAA) has updated including; “There is no change to the group’s 2019 previously announced profit, and there are no further adjustments to prior period headline profit beyond those reported in the preliminary unaudited financial statements published on 30 September 2020. An additional non-cash, non-headline prior year adjustment of £2.8m relating to 2017 and prior periods is reported” – and the shares, already up from below 30p in April, are currently at 80p, approaching 40% higher. Hmmm…

Soft drinks company Nichols (NICL) has updated including “strong further growth achieved by the Vimto brand in the UK and a good performance in the group’s International business”. The shares are though currently 1145p, approaching 5% lower…

Online organiser of weekly competitions to win cars and other lifestyle prizes Best of the Best (BOTB) has updated including that it “is very pleased that trading for the period has remained as strong as previously announced on 16 September 2020 and that momentum remains within the business”. The shares are though currently lower at 1355p…

“Warpaint London plc (W7L), the specialist supplier of colour cosmetics and owner of the W7 and Technic brands is pleased to announce an update on the sales of the group’s products in Tesco and Wilko stores, together with details of a change of board role”. The shares have responded higher, to currently 69p – though that still comparing to more than 80p at the end of February…

Revolution Bars Group (RBG) has updated the markets with news including that a “CVA successfully approved” – and the shares have responded to 17.2p, a £21.5 million market cap, 7.5% higher…

Aukett Swanke (AUK), “the international group of architects, interior designers and associated engineers is pleased to provide the following update in respect of the financial year ended 30 September 2020”. However, on a big up day for the markets, these shares are more than 4% lower at 1.15p, a below £2 million market cap…

Previously writing on self-styled “the UK’s leading online retailer of beach holidays” On the Beach Group (OTB), in April I noted a laudable update but questioned whether the share price response was merited. Today a further trading update – and the shares currently again higher on its back…

A “Half-year trading update” from value retailer of gifts, arts, crafts, toys, books and stationery, TheWorks.co.uk (WRKS) – and the shares currently at around 21p, more than 25% higher…

Previously writing on inkjet printing technology company Xaar (XAR), last month I noted following recent results share price recovery, “cyber security incident”. Now an “Update on cyber security incident”…

Biome Technologies (BIOM) has updated including “revenues in the Bioplastics division in Q3 at £1.6m were 48% ahead of the previous quarter (Q2 2020: £1.1m) and 131% ahead of the prior year comparative (Q3 2019: £0.7m). The division’s revenues in the first nine months of the financial year stood at £3.8m, 93% ahead of the equivalent period last year”. The shares though have responded little changed at around 155p, and comparing to 240p as recently as last month…

Previously writing on X-ray screening systems to the security and industrial inspection markets company Image Scan Holdings (IGE), in July with the shares at 2.65p I noted “delighted to announce” partnership programme… but a 55%+ share price rise?. The shares have since fallen back but, on the back of a trading update, are today up despite stock markets being down…

Trifast (TRI) has updated that it “is pleased to report that trading… has continued to be slightly ahead of our FY2021 base case assumptions” and “we have a robust balance sheet and are actively pursuing commercial, operational and strategic initiatives that, despite the necessary COVID-19 related caution, will allow us to take advantage of the significant growth opportunities we see”. However, and despite already being down from above 190p in February, the shares are currently slightly further lower below 120p…

Previously writing on manufacturer of products for electronic displays Zytronic (ZYT), in May with a little more than 100p share price I concluded including the impact of the “difficult and unprecedented circumstances” of the response to COVID-19 need to be considered, but I suggest there still potential value here and it worth looking out for the “we shall keep shareholders informed of any material developments”. Today a trading update…

TP Group (TPG) has announced results for the first half of 2020, including emphasising “resolute response” and “a strong start to H2 with multiple significant orders secured”. The shares are currently just above 6p in response, more than 13% lower…

Previously writing on live events agency Aeorema Communications (AEO), I concluded still on the watchlist – and now results for its year ended 30th June 2020…

Previously writing last year on group which “specialises in the administration of client assets in relation to retirement, estate and succession planning and wealth structuring”, STM (STM) I commenced that I’d previously written 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 and concluded, with the shares then around 32p, that I wasn’t confident in the outlook and retained previous caution. Today a “Trading Update” – and the shares currently below 30p, more than 15% lower on the back of it…

Industrial and healthcare products group Scapa (SCPA) has updated including “track ahead of its COVID plan… put the group on a solid foundation as it enters FY21 H2” – and the shares have currently responded to 132.6p, 7.5% higher…

Previously writing on UK automotive retailer Marshall Motor Holdings (MMH), in June, with the shares at 115p, I reviewed a “Trading and COVID-19 Update”’s ‘encouragement’, though concluding that I continued to avoid. Now a further update…

Share price recovery in inkjet printing technology company Xaar (XAR) has taken a hit today with “Notice of cyber security incident”, after having been accelerating post end of last month-announced half-year results…

Last month I wrote about the insurance and travel name Saga (SAGA) and its announced money raising, with money being tapped from the new non-executive chair (at a premium!) as well as existing shareholders and the market. At the link, I called it ‘ten out of ten for commitment’ and on Friday we had the results of the money raising…

Previously writing on aircraft charter, safety & security company Air Partner (AIR), in July with the shares at just above 90p I suggested it possibly the point to bank gains here and for now monitor how the “more normalised” trading goes from the watchlist. Today half-year results – and the shares currently 6% lower on the back of them, at 72p…

Previously writing on business events group Hyve (HYVE), in March I concluded the shares are currently down to around 22p, capitalising the company at around £180 million. I thus suggest material upside potential on macro situation improvement, but currently also in “dialogue with our lenders in relation to covenant headroom and facility flexibility”, for now, still at best on the watchlist. The shares are now around 68p – but that follows a 10 for 1 share consolidation with a rights issue, and now it further updates…