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Appointment of CEO and Director

CleanTech Lithium PLC (AIM: CTL, Frankfurt:T2N), an exploration and development company advancing sustainable lithium projects in Chile, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ignacio Mehech, former Country Manager of Albemarle in Chile, as the Chief Executive Officer (‘CEO’) and director of CleanTech Lithium.

Click link to watch interview with Ignacio Mehech: https://youtu.be/4iMx2vIZw9g

Highlights:

· Mr Mehech spent seven years up to 2024 at Albemarle with the last three years as Country Manager in Chile, managing a workforce of 1,100 employees and key stakeholder relationships, including Government and indigenous communities

· Albemarle is the world’s largest producer of battery grade lithium with Chile accounting for 30 – 40% of its production*

· Native to Chile, Spanish speaking and fluent in English, Mr Mehech has deep leadership and project development experience in lithium production

· Managed high profile engagements with investors, customers, NGOs, analysts, scientists and international government representatives

· Before Albemarle, Mr Mehech led the legal strategy for the El Abra copper operation in Chile, a joint venture with Codelco, and leading US mining company Freeport McMoRan

· Throughout his career Mr Mehech has led profound transformations in organisations to generate sustainable value

· Mr Mehech holds a law degree from the Universidad de Chile and a master’s degree in Energy and Resources Law from the University of Melbourne, Australia.

Ignacio Mehech, Chief Executive Officer, CleanTech Lithium PLC said:

‘I’ve been following CleanTech Lithium’s progress in Chile for the past couple of years and have been impressed at the progress that has been achieved, with the Company being one of the most active in Chile in seeking to develop a more sustainable means of producing lithium from Chile’s abundant brine resources.

I’m truly excited to take on the role as CEO to advance CleanTech’s Laguna Verde project and the other business opportunities in Chile. The immediate focus is entering direct negotiations with the Chilean government and progressing the CEOL application for Laguna Verde and delivering the Pre-Feasibility Study to initiate strategic partner conversations. I look forward to leading CleanTech Lithium’s project development alongside a dedicated team and to deliver value to all our stakeholders whilst supporting the ambitions of Chile’s National Lithium Strategy.’

Steve Kesler, Executive Chairman, CleanTech Lithium PLC, said:

‘We are delighted that Ignacio has agreed to join us as CEO. His experience in Chile is invaluable, having been Country Manager for leading lithium producer Albemarle, and working on the EL Abra copper mine in Chile for US mining giant Freeport McMoRan. Ignacio joins CleanTech at a crucial point in our development and his significant experience will be instrumental in leading our Laguna Verde project into the next phase.’

‘I will continue in my role as Executive Chairman intending to move back to being the Company’s Non-Executive Chairman when our Board believes the time is right. I look forward to working with Ignacio and remain confident in the long-term potential of CleanTech Lithium.’

Figure 1: Ignacio Mehech (centre) participating in a panel discussion at the Future Mining and Energy Congress in Santiago, Chile October 2023. Photo credit: Future Mining and Energy Congress

Background on Ignacio Mehech

During his tenure at Albemarle, a US-listed company with a current market cap of around US$6 billion as of 8th April 2025, Mr Mehech played a pivotal role in driving production growth, strategic negotiations, and sustainability initiatives, significantly impacting Albemarle’s operations in Chile and the broader region. Since 2015, Chile has been Albemarle’s largest single operation – depending on market prices – accounting for 30 to 40% of its global production.

A landmark achievement under his guidance was securing the first-ever IRMA (Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance) certification for a lithium operation worldwide at the Salar de Atacama plant-a testament to his commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Previously to Albemarle, Mr Mehech has worked as a legal manager at Freeport-McMoRan, one of the largest copper and molybdenum producers in the world, with multiple assets around the globe. In Chile, it operates SCM El Abra, a joint venture with Codelco, located in Calama and where Mr Mehech was responsible for developing and leading the legal strategy for the business, assuring operational continuity, building relationships with regional authorities, indigenous and non-indigenous communities.

Ignacio Mehech Castellon, aged 42, has held the following directorships and/or partnerships in the past 5 years:

Current

Past

Cobreloa SADP

Fundacion Chilena Del Pacifico

Club Sirio Unido

UN Global Compact, Chilean Chapter

Mr Mehech currently holds no ordinary shares or other securities in the Company.

There is no further information on Ignacio Mehech required to be disclosed under Schedule Two, paragraph (g) (i)-(viii) of the AIM Rules for Companies.

*Statistic taken October 2024 – Albemarle is the world’s largest lithium producer – Mining.com https://www.mining.com/web/ranking-the-worlds-top-lithium-producers/

The information communicated within this announcement is deemed to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No 596/2014 which is part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018. Upon publication of this announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. The person who arranged for the release of this announcement on behalf of the Company was Gordon Stein, Director and CFO.

For further information contact:

CleanTech Lithium PLC

Steve Kesler/Gordon Stein/Nick Baxter

Jersey office: +44 (0) 1534 668 321

Chile office: +562-32239222

Or via Celicourt

Celicourt Communications

Felicity Winkles/Philip Dennis/Ali AlQahtani

+44 (0) 20 7770 6424

cleantech@celicourt.uk

Beaumont Cornish Limited (Nominated Adviser)

Roland Cornish/Asia Szusciak

+44 (0) 20 7628 3396

Fox-Davies Capital Limited (Joint Broker)

Daniel Fox-Davies

+44 (0) 20 3884 8450

daniel@fox-davies.com

Canaccord Genuity (Joint Broker)

James Asensio

+44 (0) 20 7523 4680

Beaumont Cornish Limited (‘Beaumont Cornish’) is the Company’s Nominated Adviser and is authorised and regulated by the FCA. Beaumont Cornish’s responsibilities as the Company’s Nominated Adviser, including a responsibility to advise and guide the Company on its responsibilities under the AIM Rules for Companies and AIM Rules for Nominated Advisers, are owed solely to the London Stock Exchange. Beaumont Cornish is not acting for and will not be responsible to any other persons for providing protections afforded to customers of Beaumont Cornish nor for advising them in relation to the proposed arrangements described in this announcement or any matter referred to in it.

Notes

CleanTech Lithium (AIM:CTL, Frankfurt:T2N) is an exploration and development company advancing lithium projects in Chile for the clean energy transition. CleanTech Lithium has two key lithium projects in Chile, Laguna Verde and Viento Andino, and exploration stage project in Arenas Blancas (Salar de Atacama), located in the lithium triangle, a leading centre for battery grade lithium production.

The two most advanced projects: Laguna Verde and Viento Andino are situated within basins controlled by the Company, which affords significant potential development and operational advantages. All three projects have good access to existing infrastructure.

CleanTech Lithium is committed to utilising Direct Lithium Extraction (‘DLE’) with reinjection of spent brine resulting in no aquifer depletion. Direct Lithium Extraction is a transformative technology which removes lithium from brine with higher recoveries, short development lead times and no extensive evaporation pond construction. For more information, please visit: www.ctlithium.com

Click here for the full release

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Q1 2025 Global PC Shipments Surge on Tariff Fears

Global PC shipments rose 9.4% in Q1 2025, totaling 62.7 million units. This spike was driven by fears of new U.S. tariffs. Companies rushed deliveries to avoid increased costs.

Why Global PC Shipments Jumped

Many manufacturers increased their shipments to the U.S. in early 2025. They feared higher import taxes due to potential tariffs. By acting early, they aimed to keep costs down and maintain profit margins.

Big players like Lenovo and HP saw strong results. Lenovo’s shipments to the U.S. jumped by 20%, while HP increased theirs by 13%. These early moves gave them an edge over competitors.

What This Means for the Market

Analysts say this growth may not last. Since many shipments were front-loaded in Q1, future quarters could see weaker performance. Customers might delay purchases due to higher prices and full inventory levels.

The rise in global PC shipments may lead to a short-term oversupply. That could force companies to offer discounts in Q2 and Q3.

How Companies Are Adapting

To reduce future risks, PC makers are changing where they build their products. Many are shifting production out of China to countries like Vietnam and Mexico. This move helps them avoid tariffs and manage costs better.

Conclusion

Q1 2025 saw a sharp increase in global PC shipments. While this boost came from tariff concerns, it also shows how fast companies can adapt. Moving forward, the focus will shift to long-term strategies like supply chain diversification.

Key takeaway: The PC shipments spike in early 2025 may be short-lived, but it highlights the importance of flexibility in today’s trade environment.

Source: Reuters

Related: Technology News | Global Markets

The post Q1 2025 Global PC Shipments Surge on Tariff Fears appeared first on FinanceBrokerage.

Bitcoin Price Dip Below $80K Amid Trade Tariff Fears

As of April 9, 2025, Bitcoin (BTC) is trading at approximately $77,766, marking a significant drop from its January peak of over $109,000. This Bitcoin price dip highlights the heightened volatility in the cryptocurrency market, influenced by growing geopolitical tensions and recent tariff announcements.

Bitcoin Volatility: A Reflection of Global Uncertainty

Bitcoin price dip have always been a hallmark of its market behavior, but recent economic indicators have intensified these movements. The cryptocurrency fell sharply amid a global crypto selloff, with Ether also leading declines. Analysts attribute this to risk-off sentiment in broader financial markets as investors react to rising inflation, interest rates, and the ripple effects of U.S. trade policies.

Data from Yahoo Finance and MarketWatch show that Bitcoin touched an intraday low of $74,772 before recovering slightly. This steep drop comes just weeks after the coin hovered comfortably above the $100,000 mark, signaling increasing trader hesitation.

Tariff Announcements Add Fuel to the Fire

The reintroduction of aggressive U.S. trade tariffs has significantly impacted global markets. In particular, investors fear that escalating trade tensions with China and other nations may trigger another round of economic slowdown. These fears have not spared cryptocurrencies. Despite being considered a hedge against fiat inflation, Bitcoin is still viewed as a risky asset in volatile climates, prompting panic-selling among short-term holders.

Much like traditional equities, the crypto market responded sharply to news of fresh tariffs, with traders offloading high-volatility assets. Analysts suggest that institutional investors, who played a major role in Bitcoin’s surge to all-time highs, are now reassessing their exposure amid macroeconomic headwinds.

Broader Crypto Selloff Led by Ether and Altcoins

Ether (ETH), the second-largest cryptocurrency, saw a similar downward trend, falling more than 5% in the same trading window. Other major altcoins like Solana (SOL), XRP, and Cardano (ADA) also posted significant losses. This coordinated pullback across the crypto landscape underlines the interconnectedness of digital asset markets and investor sentiment.

The crypto fear and greed index, which gauges market emotion, has shifted sharply toward “fear,” reinforcing the cautious outlook across the sector.

Investor Sentiment and Portfolio Rebalancing

The current Bitcoin price dip has prompted both retail and institutional investors to rebalance their portfolios. Many are shifting towards less volatile assets like gold and U.S. treasury bonds, leading to short-term sell pressure in Bitcoin. With upcoming halving cycles and continued interest from global regulators, the long-term trajectory of Bitcoin remains uncertain but still promising for long-term believers.

Expert Opinions and What Comes Next

Market strategists from Barron’s and Bloomberg suggest that this dip may be temporary, especially if inflation and interest rates stabilize in the coming months. Some see the correction as a healthy reset, paving the way for sustainable future growth. Others warn that if geopolitical tensions worsen, Bitcoin could revisit sub-$70K levels.

Investors are encouraged to monitor developments in the global economic landscape, including central bank actions and trade negotiations, which will undoubtedly shape Bitcoin’s next moves.

Conclusion: A Temporary Setback or Trend Reversal?

Bitcoin’s price dip below $80,000 in April 2025 signals a broader market correction triggered by trade war fears and shifting economic policies. However, history shows that Bitcoin has often rebounded stronger after periods of doubt. Whether this is a short-term drop or a longer-term reset, one thing is certain: Bitcoin continues to mirror the complexities of the global financial landscape, and investors must stay informed and adaptable.

Key takeaway: As global tariffs return and inflation lingers, Bitcoin’s short-term volatility may persist. Long-term investors, however, still view dips as potential entry points into a decentralized future.

Source 1: Yahoo Finance

Source 2: Yahoo Finance

Source 3: MarketWatch

Source 4: Barron’s

The post Bitcoin Price Dip Below $80K Amid Trade Tariff Fears appeared first on FinanceBrokerage.

Oil Markets Buckle Under Tariff Pressure, Recession Fears Tank Prices

The global oil market is facing a sharp downturn as a wave of recession fears, aggressive trade policies and a surprise supply boost from OPEC+ collide to send prices tumbling to multi-year lows.

Although crude prices staged a modest recovery on Tuesday (April 8), the broader market trajectory remains grim, with Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude now trading well below levels needed for profitable production in the US.

Oil prices have dropped precipitously since early April, reaching levels not seen since 2021 on April 4 soon after US President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping new tariffs on dozens of countries.

Brent and WTI remain depressed despite small upticks on Tuesday, with Brent rising 1.03 percent to reach US$64.87 per barrel, and WTI gaining 1.24 percent to hit US$61.45 per barrel.

Double hit: Tariff shock and OPEC+ supply surge

The catalysts for the broad decline are a one-two punch of a deepening trade conflict between the US and China, and a surprise production surge from OPEC+ nations.

Trump’s tariff announcement — described by JPMorgan (NYSE:JPM) as the ‘largest tax hike on Americans since 1968’ — has rattled global markets and sent oil traders into a panic over demand destruction.

Beijing has responded with defiance, promising to fight to the end and calling Washington’s demands “blackmail.’

At the same time, OPEC+ — the alliance of major oil producers led by Saudi Arabia and Russia — announced an unexpected increase of 411,000 barrels per day in May output, compressing three months of planned supply expansion into a single move. The boost comes after months of US pressure to increase supply and push down energy prices.

But the timing could not have been worse for American producers. Analysts say the combined impact of slowing global trade and higher supply of the energy fuel has left the American oil industry vulnerable. Prices have dropped below the US$65 threshold needed to sustain profitable drilling activity across much of the US.

According to the latest Dallas Federal Reserve energy survey, even operations in the Permian Basin — the lowest-cost production zone in the country — require crude to trade above US$61 to remain economically viable.

“You’re probably seeing more pauses of initial investment intention than the initial Covid shock. It’s really bamboozling,” Rory Johnston, a veteran oil analyst and publisher of the Commodity Context newsletter, told Heatmap.

“Everything else is really, really starting to grind to a halt, and you’re not seeing anyone jumping over themselves to ‘drill, baby, drill,’ despite the White House’s claims,” Johnston added.

Equity markets have punished energy companies accordingly. Oilfield services giant Halliburton (NYSE:HAL) shed 20 percent in a single week, while Nabors Industries (NYSE:NBR) lost 30 percent in just five days.

The oil majors fared slightly better, but still saw significant losses, with ExxonMobil (NYSE:XOM) down 10 percent, Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY) down 15 percent and Chevron (NYSE:CVX) falling 13 percent.

Tariff fallout threatens global energy outlook

There is growing concern among market watchers that if economic activity continues to weaken under the weight of tariffs, further declines in both oil and gas demand are likely.

Crucially, many of the countries most affected by Trump’s tariffs — particularly in Southeast Asia — were previously projected to drive the bulk of oil and energy demand growth over the next decade.

Vietnam, Cambodia and four other Southeast Asian nations were hit with tariffs exceeding 45 percent, prompting concerns that their economies could stall or contract.

“The macro concern is that if these tariffs stay where they are, this is in a global recession, if not a depression-making place,” Johnston elaborated in his conversation with Heatmap. “And given that the highest tariff rates are on Asia in particular, and that’s where all growing oil demand is, it’s not good for oil.”

Meanwhile, US producers are grappling with higher costs for drilling inputs due to tariffs on steel, aluminum and other industrial goods. Johnston explained in a Bluesky post that drillers have reported a 30 percent spike in the cost of tubular steel pipe, a critical material for oil and gas wells, since Trump implemented a 25 percent steel tariff in February.

So far, OPEC+ officials have not signaled any plans to curb output again.

For now, the market remains volatile, and producers are in a state of limbo. Despite early promises of energy dominance and renewed drilling, Trump’s policy choices have left the sector reeling.

“The administration’s chaos is a disaster for the commodity markets. ‘Drill, baby, drill’ is nothing short of a myth and populist rallying cry. Tariff policy is impossible for us to predict and doesn’t have a clear goal,” one executive told the Dallas Fed last month.

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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Silver Crown Royalties Purchases 1,000 Ounces of Physical Silver

(TheNewswire)

Silver Crown Royalties Inc. ( Cboe: SCRI, OTCQX: SLCRF, BF: QS0 ) ( ‘Silver Crown’ ‘SCRi’ the ‘Corporation’ or the ‘Company’ ) is pleased to announce the purchase of 1,000 ounces of physical silver in the spot market as part of its silver exposure strategy

Click Image To View Full Size

Click Image To View Full Size

The purchase was completed at an average price of $30.65 per ounce and reflects an 8% discount to 20-day VWAP and an 11% discount to recent highs. The average price was based on spot price of US$30.15 per ounce plus a premium of US$0.50 per ounce, for a total investment of US$30,650. The physical silver will be stored with Money Metals Depository LLC, with the exact location to be confirmed, potentially at a designated sub-custodian facility managed by the depository.

Photo Credit: MoneyMetals.com

Peter Bures, Silver Crown’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, ‘We strive to maintain an adequate working capital position of at least six months. We feel it is only prudent as a silver only royalty company to convert a portion of that cash to physical silver. SCRi’s ultimate vision is to provide a vehicle that serves as a hedge against currency devaluation, and we therefore feel it would be hypocritical to have exposure to 100% fiat money. We appreciate our investors want exposure to silver, not fiat, which they can achieve easily without our assistance. The purchase was made with a cash payment received from PPX effectively converting a cash payment to physical silver bullion delivery.’

ABOUT Silver Crown Royalties INC.

Founded by industry veterans, Silver Crown Royalties ( Cboe: SCRI | OTCQX: SLCRF | BF: QS0 ) is a publicly traded, silver royalty company. Silver Crown (SCRi) currently has four silver royalties of which three are revenue-generating. Its business model presents investors with precious metals exposure that allows for a natural hedge against currency devaluation while minimizing the negative impact of cost inflation associated with production. SCRi endeavors to minimize the economic impact on mining projects while maximizing returns for shareholders. For further information, please contact:

Silver Crown Royalties Inc.

Peter Bures, Chairman and CEO

Telephone: (416) 481-1744

Email: pbures@silvercrownroyalties.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains certain ‘forward looking statements’ and certain ‘forward-looking information’ as defined under applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as ‘may’, ‘will’, ‘should’, ‘expect’, ‘intend’, ‘estimate’, ‘anticipate’, ‘believe’, ‘continue’, ‘plans’ or similar terminology. The forward-looking information contained herein is provided for the purpose of assisting readers in understanding management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, SCRi’s ultimate vision is to provide a vehicle that serves as a hedge against currency devaluation, and we therefore feel it would be hypocritical to have exposure to 100% fiat money . Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual actions, events or results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: the impact of general business and economic conditions; the absence of control over mining operations from which SCRi will purchase gold and other metals or from which it will receive royalty payments and risks related to those mining operations, including risks related to international operations, government and environmental regulation, delays in mine construction and operations, actual results of mining and current exploration activities, conclusions of economic evaluations and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; SCRi’s ability to enter into definitive agreements and close proposed royalty transactions; the inherent uncertainties related to the valuations ascribed by SCRi to its royalty interests; problems inherent to the marketability of gold and other metals; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; industry conditions, including fluctuations in the price of the primary commodities mined at such operations, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and fluctuations in interest rates; government entities interpreting existing tax legislation or enacting new tax legislation in a way which adversely affects SCRi; stock market volatility; regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, the potential impact of epidemics, pandemics or other public health crises on SCRi’s business, operations and financial condition, loss of key employees. SCRi has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. SCRi undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking information represents management’s best judgment based on information currently available.

This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities of the Company in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. Any such offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein will be made only pursuant to subscription documentation between the Company and prospective purchasers. Any such offering will be made in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus and registration requirements under applicable securities laws, pursuant to a subscription agreement to be entered into by the Company and prospective investors. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

CBOE CANADA DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire – All rights reserved.

News Provided by TheNewsWire via QuoteMedia

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Stock Market News UK Update: FTSE 100 & 250 Rise

Stock Market News: UK Forecast and Technical Analysis

Today, the UK stock market saw the FTSE 250 increase by 195 points (0.9%) to 21,628, nearly matching the 1.2% increase in the FTSE 100, driven largely by gains in mining stocks. This positive momentum is creating a bullish sentiment in the market.

The two London indices are leading the European market this morning. The DAX is up 0.7% in Germany, followed by the FTSE MIB in Italy, the CAC 40 in France, and the IBEX 35 in Spain, all of which are up 0.4%, reinforcing the optimistic outlook across Europe.

The gain for the Euro Stoxx 600 is just under 1%. Risers include Just Eat Takeaway, rising 17%; TeamViewer, the software company and owner of Kenco, JD Peet.

Among the higher risers, Wickes Group PLC, one of the UK’s listed companies, has seen a 3.3% increase in revenue despite facing difficulties retaining customers for its custom kitchen, home office installation, and bathroom services.

In the first half, this segment’s revenues were destroyed by 17%, offsetting the 1% growth in revenue in its core retail offering.

GSK Shares Decline

GSK PLC, the drugmaker listed on the FTSE 100, raised its annual earnings and sales forecasts due to strong second-quarter performance from HIV and cancer treatments, but the stock is currently down 2.5%.

Core EPS profits are now expected to increase by 10-12% in 2024, up from the previous guidance of 8-10%. Meanwhile, the overall profits are expected to increase by 7-9%, compared to the earlier estimate of 5-7%.

Nonetheless, there were some omissions in the data: vaccination profit fell 9% short of expectations as shingles treatment Shingrix was a 20% disappointment as US sales plummeted 36%.

This is due to decreased demand and inventory reductions. However, it is important to note that international sales make up about 64% of total revenue.

General medicine, oncology, and HIV all performed better than anticipated.

GSK/GBX 5-Day Chart

Growth Expectation For FTSE 250

In the last five years, Greggs’ shares have increased by 40%, outpacing the FTSE 250 London stock. The company’s first-half (H1) results have given them an additional 5% boost.

The most recent data shows a 16% increase in profit before taxes and a 14% increase in sales.

However, despite these gains, projections indicate a minor decline in Greggs’ EPS for the full year 2024. However, the company’s first-half revenue increased by only 15%.

It is a basic diluted estimate that does not account for anomalies. However, it raises the possibility that projections are simply exaggerating the situation.

Thanks to these expenditures and a well-defined expansion plan, Greggs has produced substantial returns for its owners.

For the 2023 fiscal year, Greggs reported record yearly sales of £1.8 billion and a profit before taxes of £188.3 million.

The company also disclosed a significant capital investment program aimed at enhancing its manufacturing capacity and expanding its capacity to accommodate approximately 3,500 stores throughout the United Kingdom.

UK Stock Market Today: FTSE Stock Surge

Among the top risers in the FTSE, Antofagasta PLC and Rio Tinto have shown significant gains. Antofagasta PLC saw notable gains despite no specific news being released. Rio Tinto’s positive results, which included a 1.8% increase in first-half profit, contributed to a 1% rise in its shares and may have influenced the broader market.

More significantly, there are rumours that the Anglo-Australian miner Antofagasta is eyeing a major opportunity in the copper industry, further boosting investor confidence.

The Footsie has continued to rise, hitting a two-month peak of nearly 8,374 following a 1.2% increase. This is the highest value for the London standard since May 22nd, topping 8,368.

HSBC Makes a £3 Billion Buyback

Following a largely flat first half of the year, HSBC Holdings PLC announced an additional interim dividend and a £3 billion share buyback.

For the first half of 2024, the £0.10 per share dividend will equate to 20 cents, unchanged from the previous year. The share buyback is anticipated to be finished in three months.

The bank, with a focus on Asia, reported a first-half pre-tax profit of $21.6 billion, which was marginally lower than the same period last year, even though revenue increased 1% to $37.3 billion and certain “strategic transactions” had a net positive revenue impact of $0.2 billion.

The second quarter’s $16.5 billion in revenues exceeded analysts’ expectations, and the quarter’s $8.9 billion profit before taxes was significantly more than the $7.8 billion they had predicted.

Despite being lower than the 1.53% consensus estimate, the net interest margin improved from 1.7% to 1.62% a year ago due to an increase in the finance cost of average profit liabilities. These developments are significant for the stock market news UK, as they may influence investor sentiment and market trends.

FTSE 250 Share Price

  • Value: 21,572.34
  • Net Variation: 139.83
  • High/Low: 21,649.47 / 21,430.07
  • Previously closed price: 21,432.51
  • 52WK range: 16,783.09 – 21,432.51
  • Launch date: October 12th 1992
  • Constituents number: 250
  • Net MCap: 324,478
  • Dividend Yield: 3.35%
  • Average: 1,298
  • Largest: 4,059
  • Smallest: 81
  • Median: 1,085

FTSE 100 Share Price

  • Value: 8,390.33
  • Previous Close: 8,292.35
  • Open Price: 8,292.35
  • Day low: 8,235.55
  • Day High: 8,297.92
  • 52-week low: 7,215.76
  • 52-week high: 8,474.41

In summary, today’s gains on the stock market news UK are remarkable, as the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 indices both saw an increase. Mining stocks, especially in the FTSE 100, have primarily driven these gains. Major indices have also increased throughout Europe, indicating an optimistic trend in the market.

While GSK continues to face difficulties even after increasing its earnings projections, Greggs has shown remarkable growth in both its stock price as well as profitability. Despite a little fluctuation in its profit margins, HSBC’s announcement of a significant share buyback and dividend demonstrates the strength of its financial position.

The post Stock Market News UK Update: FTSE 100 & 250 Rise appeared first on FinanceBrokerage.

Stock Market News UK Update: FTSE 100 & 250 Rise

Stock Market News: UK Forecast and Technical Analysis

Today, the UK stock market saw the FTSE 250 increase by 195 points (0.9%) to 21,628, nearly matching the 1.2% increase in the FTSE 100, driven largely by gains in mining stocks. This positive momentum is creating a bullish sentiment in the market.

The two London indices are leading the European market this morning. The DAX is up 0.7% in Germany, followed by the FTSE MIB in Italy, the CAC 40 in France, and the IBEX 35 in Spain, all of which are up 0.4%, reinforcing the optimistic outlook across Europe.

The gain for the Euro Stoxx 600 is just under 1%. Risers include Just Eat Takeaway, rising 17%; TeamViewer, the software company and owner of Kenco, JD Peet.

Among the higher risers, Wickes Group PLC, one of the UK’s listed companies, has seen a 3.3% increase in revenue despite facing difficulties retaining customers for its custom kitchen, home office installation, and bathroom services.

In the first half, this segment’s revenues were destroyed by 17%, offsetting the 1% growth in revenue in its core retail offering.

GSK Shares Decline

GSK PLC, the drugmaker listed on the FTSE 100, raised its annual earnings and sales forecasts due to strong second-quarter performance from HIV and cancer treatments, but the stock is currently down 2.5%.

Core EPS profits are now expected to increase by 10-12% in 2024, up from the previous guidance of 8-10%. Meanwhile, the overall profits are expected to increase by 7-9%, compared to the earlier estimate of 5-7%.

Nonetheless, there were some omissions in the data: vaccination profit fell 9% short of expectations as shingles treatment Shingrix was a 20% disappointment as US sales plummeted 36%.

This is due to decreased demand and inventory reductions. However, it is important to note that international sales make up about 64% of total revenue.

General medicine, oncology, and HIV all performed better than anticipated.

GSK/GBX 5-Day Chart

Growth Expectation For FTSE 250

In the last five years, Greggs’ shares have increased by 40%, outpacing the FTSE 250 London stock. The company’s first-half (H1) results have given them an additional 5% boost.

The most recent data shows a 16% increase in profit before taxes and a 14% increase in sales.

However, despite these gains, projections indicate a minor decline in Greggs’ EPS for the full year 2024. However, the company’s first-half revenue increased by only 15%.

It is a basic diluted estimate that does not account for anomalies. However, it raises the possibility that projections are simply exaggerating the situation.

Thanks to these expenditures and a well-defined expansion plan, Greggs has produced substantial returns for its owners.

For the 2023 fiscal year, Greggs reported record yearly sales of £1.8 billion and a profit before taxes of £188.3 million.

The company also disclosed a significant capital investment program aimed at enhancing its manufacturing capacity and expanding its capacity to accommodate approximately 3,500 stores throughout the United Kingdom.

UK Stock Market Today: FTSE Stock Surge

Among the top risers in the FTSE, Antofagasta PLC and Rio Tinto have shown significant gains. Antofagasta PLC saw notable gains despite no specific news being released. Rio Tinto’s positive results, which included a 1.8% increase in first-half profit, contributed to a 1% rise in its shares and may have influenced the broader market.

More significantly, there are rumours that the Anglo-Australian miner Antofagasta is eyeing a major opportunity in the copper industry, further boosting investor confidence.

The Footsie has continued to rise, hitting a two-month peak of nearly 8,374 following a 1.2% increase. This is the highest value for the London standard since May 22nd, topping 8,368.

HSBC Makes a £3 Billion Buyback

Following a largely flat first half of the year, HSBC Holdings PLC announced an additional interim dividend and a £3 billion share buyback.

For the first half of 2024, the £0.10 per share dividend will equate to 20 cents, unchanged from the previous year. The share buyback is anticipated to be finished in three months.

The bank, with a focus on Asia, reported a first-half pre-tax profit of $21.6 billion, which was marginally lower than the same period last year, even though revenue increased 1% to $37.3 billion and certain “strategic transactions” had a net positive revenue impact of $0.2 billion.

The second quarter’s $16.5 billion in revenues exceeded analysts’ expectations, and the quarter’s $8.9 billion profit before taxes was significantly more than the $7.8 billion they had predicted.

Despite being lower than the 1.53% consensus estimate, the net interest margin improved from 1.7% to 1.62% a year ago due to an increase in the finance cost of average profit liabilities. These developments are significant for the stock market news UK, as they may influence investor sentiment and market trends.

FTSE 250 Share Price

  • Value: 21,572.34
  • Net Variation: 139.83
  • High/Low: 21,649.47 / 21,430.07
  • Previously closed price: 21,432.51
  • 52WK range: 16,783.09 – 21,432.51
  • Launch date: October 12th 1992
  • Constituents number: 250
  • Net MCap: 324,478
  • Dividend Yield: 3.35%
  • Average: 1,298
  • Largest: 4,059
  • Smallest: 81
  • Median: 1,085

FTSE 100 Share Price

  • Value: 8,390.33
  • Previous Close: 8,292.35
  • Open Price: 8,292.35
  • Day low: 8,235.55
  • Day High: 8,297.92
  • 52-week low: 7,215.76
  • 52-week high: 8,474.41

In summary, today’s gains on the stock market news UK are remarkable, as the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 indices both saw an increase. Mining stocks, especially in the FTSE 100, have primarily driven these gains. Major indices have also increased throughout Europe, indicating an optimistic trend in the market.

While GSK continues to face difficulties even after increasing its earnings projections, Greggs has shown remarkable growth in both its stock price as well as profitability. Despite a little fluctuation in its profit margins, HSBC’s announcement of a significant share buyback and dividend demonstrates the strength of its financial position.

The post Stock Market News UK Update: FTSE 100 & 250 Rise appeared first on FinanceBrokerage.

DP Trading Room: Key Support Levels for the SPY

The market is in a tailspin as tariffs add volatility to the market. Carl and Erin believe the SPY is in a bear market given key indexes like the Nasdaq are already in bear markets. It’s time to consider where the key support levels are.

Carl addressed his thoughts of where key support lies on the SPY during our question section of the trading room. You’ll also get his insight on current market conditions with his review of the market indicators in general as well as a look at Yields, Bonds, Crude Oil, Bitcoin among others.

During the review he pointed out how the members of our 26 indexes, sectors and groups are faring from their recent highs. Many are in bear markets.

After his market analysis, Carl walked us through the Magnificent Seven which are currently all in bear markets with declines of more than 20% or more. He analyzed both the daily and the weekly charts to give us perspective and support levels.

Erin took the controls and gave us her view of sector rotation using the Price Momentum Oscillator (PMO) sort to bring the strong sectors to the top and the weaker sectors on the bottom. The results were not surprising.

Finally, the pair finished with a look at viewer symbol requests.

01:03 DP Signal Tables

05:05 Market Overview

18:55 Magnificent Seven

25:42 Questions (including Key Support Levels)

34:10 Sector Rotation

42:26 Symbol Requests

The DP Alert: Your First Stop to a Great Trade!

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Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The ideas and strategies should never be used without first assessing your own personal and financial situation, or without consulting a financial professional. Any opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author, and do not in any way represent the views or opinions of any other person or entity.

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PH Govt confirms MMCI’s Financial Capability, MPSA Now Permanent

Celsius Resources Limited (“Celsius” or “CLA”) (ASX, AIM: CLA) is pleased to announce that its Philippine affiliate, Makilala Mining Company, Inc. (“MMCI” or the “Company”), has received formal confirmation from the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (“DENR”) that it has satisfied the final financial compliance requirement under its Mineral Production Sharing Agreement for the Maalinao-Caigutan-Biyog Copper-Gold Project (“MCB” or the “Project”)1.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR has formally accepted the binding term sheet which outlines the key terms of a bridge loan facility between Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC) and Makilala Mining Company, Inc. (MMCI) as sufficient proof of financial capability.
  • This confirmation marks MMCI’s full compliance with the remaining provisional requirements of the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) for the MCB Copper-Gold Project, locking the MPSA for a full 25 years, renewable for another 25.

This follows the DENR’s acceptance of the binding term sheet which outlines the key terms of a bridge loan facility of up to USD76.4 million, executed between MMCI and Maharlika Investment Corporation (“MIC”), a government-owned and controlled corporation, in February 20252 (“Binding Term Sheet”). The Binding Term Sheet was evaluated and endorsed by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (“MGB”) which noted that:

  • The Binding Term Sheet provides a structured and credible financial mechanism for MMCI’s mining operations; and
  • The involvement of MIC significantly enhances MMCI’s financial standing and credibility, offering strong assurance of continued support.

MMCI is expected to submit all related and forthcoming financial documents to the DENR and MGB and to update its Three-Year Development/Utilisation Work Program accordingly, in line with the terms of the MPSA and DENR Administrative Order No. 2010-213.

Celsius Executive Chairman Atty. Julito R. Sarmiento, said:

“We are extremely pleased to have achieved this important regulatory milestone for the MCB Project. The acceptance of the Binding Term Sheet by the DENR and the MGB is not only a testament to MMCI’s commitment to responsible and well-funded development, but also reflects the strong support and credibility provided by our partnership with Maharlika Investment Corporation.

On behalf of CLA and MMCI’s management and staff, again, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to MIC for their confidence and catalytic funding support to the Project, and to the DENR and MGB for their professionalism and guidance throughout the compliance process.

We remain committed to ensuring that the MCB project delivers lasting and sustainable economic benefits to our host communities, particularly in Balatoc, the Municipality of Pasil, and the Province of Kalinga, as well as meaningful contributions to national development, all while upholding environmental stewardship and shared prosperity.

Now that we have fulfilled our compliance with the conditions of the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement, we are in a strong position to proceed with mine development and construction. We remain steadfast on our commitment to sustainable development by balancing resource efficiency with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.”

MIC and MMCI will now proceed with signing the Omnibus Loan and Security Agreements (“Agreements”) reflecting the terms of the Binding Term Sheet signed with MIC in February 2025.

Click here for the full ASX Release

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Christopher Aaron: Key Ratio Now in Gold’s Favor, Stocks to Grind Lower

Christopher Aaron, founder of iGoldAdvisor and Elite Private Placements, discusses a key signal from the Dow-to-gold ratio, saying a multi-decade trend in favor of stocks has been broken.

This is only the fourth time this situation has played out in the last 125 years.

Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com