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Quoted Micro 28 October 2024
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Electrification technology developer Equipmake (EQIP) has raised £3m at 3p/share. Chief executive Ian Foley has subscribed for 6.67 million shares, although his stake will be diluted to 34.1%. The cash should last for six months and move the business towards cash breakeven. There was £2.48m in the bank at the end of May 2024. In the year to May 2024, the cash outflow from operations was £6.3m. The company estimates a requirement of £5.5m for working capital over the next 12 months. A potential licensing agreement could bring in £4.6m over a two-year period. Equipmake could reach cash breakeven in 2025-26. The focus is on higher margin work and bus repowering range will be rationalised. Costs are also being reduced, but it is investing in its commercial team.
Igraine (KING) has secured right of first refusal on current and future battery storage projects developed by GEM Energia. AIM-quoted Vela Technologies (VELA) is providing a loan facility with a minimum commitment of £200,000. Igraine will issue 35.5 million shares, which is 29.1% of the company, to GEM in return for the rights. David Levis, the chief executive of GEM, is joining the Igraine board as an executive director. He founded GEM to develop battery energy storage projects in the UK. It develops the projects up to the point where it either sells them or proceeds with the development itself. Igraine will have the right to receive 8% of the sales proceeds of a disposal or be involved in their further development. Initial sites will be sold to generate cash for Igraine and strengthen the balance sheet. Each site requires £150,000-£250,000 to secure grid connections and get to the ready to build stage. Every MW of capacity is valued at £120,000. After costs, a 100MW site could generate cash of more than £7m. There are four sites which are already in progress.
Oscillate (MUSH) has started hydrogen operations in Minnesota. A hydrogen soil-gas sensor has been bought and pre-field work started, which will provide data to enable further progress. Igraine has been diluted from 10.2% to 5.05% following the recent share issue.
Lift Global Ventures (LFT) says investee company Trans-Africa Energy has not received the £12m it was waiting for from an African investor. It is talking to alternative sources of finance for the energy infrastructure project in Ghana. The redemption date on the loan notes held by Lift Global Ventures has been extended to the end of 2024 and in return the value will be increased from £1m to £1.25m.
Ananda Developments (ANA) says two of its potential medicines, MRX2 and MRX2T, will be used in National Institute for Health and Care Research and NHS co-funded phase IIIa epilepsy clinical trials involving up to 500 patients. This could support marketing authorisation applications if the trials are successful.
EDX Medical Group (EDX) has raised £300,000 from a Saudi Arabian investor at 11p/share, which was a 22% premium to the market price.
Corporate businesses developer Macaulay Capital (MCAP) managing director David Horner has doubled his shareholding to 500,000 shares by buying 250,000 shares at 20p each. His family has a 24.9% stake. Marula Mining (MARU) director Jason Brewer has increased his shareholding by 340,000 shares at 5.38p each. That takes his stake, held through Gathoni Muchai Investments to 9.13%. Mike Cass has increased his stake in BWA Group (BWAP) to 15.1%. James and Alexandra Pace have a 5% stake in Shepherd Neame (SHEP).
AIM
Footwear retailer Shoe Zone (SHOE) says that poor weather hit second half sales, but it has traded in line with expectations. Full year revenues were 3% lower at £161.3m with a second half decline wiping out the interim growth. Trading did improve in August and September. Zeus forecasts a fall in pre-tax profit from £16.5m to £9.5m. The full year dividend will slip from 17.4p/share to 6.2p/share.
Disinfection products supplier Tristel (TSTL) beat expectations in the year to June 2024. There were initial revenues from the US, but they will take time to build up. Sales grew in nearly every market, with small dips in Australasia and China. A price increase in the UK, combined with higher volumes, helped hospital medical device decontamination jump 38%. The main growth in sales is in the UK and Europe. In the year to June 2024, revenues improved from £36m to £41.9m, while pre-tax profit rose from £6.2m to £8.2m. There was a reallocation of costs from overheads to cost of sales, so this affected comparatives. The total dividend was raised 29% to 13.52p/share.
Telecoms enterprise software provider Cerillion (CER) continues to grow faster than its underlying market. Revenues were 14% higher in the second half, enabling profit to be better than expected. There are record new orders and this underpins further growth in the next couple of years. The €12.4m order from the previously unnamed Virgin Media Ireland is contributing to the growth. It probably generated £6m last year. This is the first contract with a tier-1 telecoms company and could help to win other contracts with this level of business. In the year to September 2024, revenues were 12% ahead at £43.8m.
Online marketing services provider XL Media (XLM) is selling its North American business for up to $30m in cash, with $20m payable on completion and up to $10m in April – based on revenues and gross profit in 2024. Some cash should be redistributed to shareholders by the end of the year. The company will effectively become a cash shell.
EnergyPathways (EPP) has been asked by the UK government to participate in the Hydrogen Storage Business Model. This will help to define the new investment support scheme. The first Hydrogen Storage Allocation Round should be in 2025.
Seascape Energy Asia (SEA) has been awarded a 28% participating interest in a production sharing contract over the DEWA complex cluster, offshore Sarawak, Malaysia. Enquest owns 42% and Petroleum Sarawak holds 30%. The area has 12 gas discoveries in shallow water near to the coast. Six will be focused on and these have 500bcf of gas in place. Seascape Energy Asia will commit $600,000 for a detailed resource assessment and field development plan.
Specialist recruitment firm Gattaca (GATC) reported an underlying 2023-24 pre-tax profit decline from £3.7m to £2.9m on 5% lower net fee income of £40.1m. There was a 3% increase in net fee income for contract work, but permanent income dropped by one-third. Despite the decline, Gattaca is gaining market share. Costs have been reduced and the US business has been sold. There could be a modest improvement in profit this year.
Prospex Energy (PXEN) recently acquired a 7.2365% working interest in the onshore Spain Viura gas field, which recommenced production last week. The Viura 1B development well has encountered significant gas shows in the Utrillas-A reservoir and a new gas bearing reservoir interval below that. The well, which cost Prospex Energy €375,000, could contribute to production in November Flow testing results for the deeper reservoir will be available next year. There should be a significant upgrade to recoverable reserves. The European gas price is rising.
Musical instruments retailer Gear4Music (G4M) continues to recover with growth in the second quarter nearly offsetting the decline in the first quarter and further improvement in October. In the six months to September 2024, UK sales grew 4%, but European sales declined. Total sales were 1% lower at £61.7m. Gross margin has fallen back, but the interim loss will be reduced. Full year revenues are expected to be higher and pre-tax profit could jump from £1.1m to £2.8m.
Information and data publisher Merit Group (MRIT) has been hit by the ending of project work and the lack of replacement work. Sales resource is being added, but that will take time to boost revenues. Canaccord Genuity has changed its 2024-25 forecast from a £900,000 profit to a loss of £800,000 after a 11% reduction in expected revenues to £18.5m, which is lower than the 2022-23 figure. A return to profit is forecast for next year. There are management changes that are flagged for next year.
Ariana Resources (AAU) has reviewed the data for the Dokwe gold project in Zimbabwe. There are several zones of potential extensions to mineralisation. There are also gold-in-soil anomalies to follow up and drilling is planned. The in-pit resource is 1.2moz in two open pits at Dokwe Central and Dokwe North. Measured and indicated resources are 30Mt at 1.3g/t gold. Ariana Resources believes there could be annual production of up to 100,000 ounces of gold for up to 15 years. A revision of the pre-feasibility study is underway.
At the end of the week, property developer and investor Caledonian Trust (CNN), which has been on AIM for more than 29 years, announced its proposed departure. The direct annual cost of the quotation is £100,000 and liquidity is poor. A general meeting to gain shareholder approval will be held on 18 November. There is already support from holders of 85.3% of the shares. The quotation could end on 26 November. NAV is 195.1p/share.
Adams (ADA) is proposing the cancellation of the AIM quotation and sell off the company’s investments, many of which are also quoted on AIM, to return the cash to shareholders. Prior to this Adams will be buying back shares at 4p each. The estimated NAV is 3.72p/share. Liquidity is limited because Richard Griffiths owns 94% of Adams. A general meeting will be held on 27 November and, if passed, the cancellation will be on 5 December.
MAIN MARKET
Advanced materials developer HeiQ (LON: HEIQ) has found growing its business difficult, particularly in textiles, flooring and antimicrobials and not recovery is expected until well into 2025. Another restructuring plan will cut costs and focus on certain facilities. Non-core operations will be scaled back. Some parts of the business may be sold, and outside finance is being sought for AeoniQ. Part of the cost cutting is giving up the listing. This should take effect on 19 November. Because the shares are on the transition category of the market since the restructuring of the Main Market, no shareholder vote is required. The shares will be traded by JP Jenkins. Daren Morecombe has increased his stake from 14.5% to 22%.
Bloomsbury Publishing (BMY) grew interim revenues by 32% to £179.8m, while pre-tax profit jumped from £17.7m to £26.6m. This is due to strong consumer division revenues due to strong sales of fantasy fiction and cookery books.
LED lighting and wiring accessories supplier Luceco (LUCE) increased third quarter revenues by 3% with residential EV charging the main growth area. However, excluding acquisitions, like-for-like revenues were 3.6% lower, partly due to phasing of orders so that there is a strong fourth quarter order book. Margins are improving. Net debt was £67m at the end of September 2024.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 19 February 2024
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Vehicle electrification technology developer Equipmake (EQIP) has raised £4m at 6p/share and a further £110,000 from a retail offer. This will fund research and development for the international market and finding opportunities in the US. There is also grant funding of up to £4.57m. The order book is valued at £13.1m and mainly relates to the bus market. The cash will last at least 12 months.
Coinsilium (COIN) says that the SalitaFinance AI-driven platform, where it has a 6.7% stake, has received investment from a top ten global infrastructure bank. Another investee company, crypto friendly payments company Greengage Global has secured an agreement with a new regulated partner and this will enable the earlier launch of Greengage’s US dollar currency accounts along with forex and SWIFT payments services for clients.
Investment Evolution Credit (IEC) has appointed Axis Capital Markets as corporate broker to help to raise up to £100m via the previously announced bond offering. The share price rose by 50% on the week to 60p. The December 2023 admission price was 4.5p.
RentGuarantor (RGG) has entered a three-year marketing deal with student letting company University Living. The rent guarantee service will be promoted to residential tenants. This will broaden access to the market.
Mortgage Chat (MCAI) has raised £105,000 at 0.05p each. The strategy is moving towards the development of an artificial intelligence platform called Mortgage Chat connecting borrowers and lenders.
Brewer Adnams (ADB) has asked advisers to explore options for funding growth plans.
Marula Mining (MARU) has published a shareholder circular to gain approval for a subscription by AUO Commercial Brokerage. The first subscription will raise £3.75m at 3.75p/share with further subscriptions potentially raising £4.78m at 10p/share. The general meeting is on 8 March.
BWA Group (BWAP) has come to a settlement with St-Georges Eco-Mining Corp, which will convert some loan notes into 146.2 million shares and cancel £1.42m of convertible notes. Connected parties will also be encouraged to rerun up to £1.8m of convertible notes.
TruSpine Technologies (TSP) has entered into a £50,000 loan note agreement with Martin Armstrong, a former chairman. This can be converted into shares at 2.5p each.
Lord Nicholas Monson has increased his stake in Lift Global Ventures (LFT) from 4.96% to 5.33%.
AIM
Katoro Gold (KAT) has raised £750,000 at 0.1p/share, along with warrants exercisable at 0.2p/share that could raise up to £1.5m, and it is planning board changes. Executive chairman Louis Coetzee is stepping down. Outstanding board fees of £91,000 have been reduced to £63,600. A new strategy will involve maximising value from existing interests and seeking new opportunities in critical metals, including uranium. Paul Johnson, who has previously run Power Metal Resources and Metal Tiger has been appointed strategic consultant. The company plans to change its name to Katoro Global Resources.
Good Energy (GOOD) is building on its energy efficiency services business through the acquisition of Maidstone-based JPS Renewable Energy, which is a solar and storage installation business. The initial consideration is £7m in cash and shares with deferred consideration of up to £6.75m over two years. The vendors placed 842,000 of the 1.32 million shares issued at 250p each. JPS generated revenues of £12.4m and pre-tax profit of £600,000 in the year to April 2023 and pre-tax profit could increase to £1.3m this year.
Neometals (NMT) says a review of the Spargos project in Western Australia indicates low potential for lithium-bearing pegmatites. Sampling did not produce any significant results. There will be field mapping to investigate two potassium anomalies and a strategic review of the project.
Gattaca (GATC) is still finding the permanent staffing market difficult, and first half net fee income is expected to decline 16% to £18.9m. This has led to downgrades for full year net fee income, but cost cutting has meant that the full year pre-tax profit forecast is maintained at £3m. The figures will be second half weighted.
Harvest Minerals (HMI) received fertiliser orders for 34,880 tonnes, of which 28,707 tonnes were invoiced in 2023. There have been 1,250 tonnes invoiced so far in 2024. Sales guidance is 70,000 tonnes for 2024. Cash was $630,000 at the end of 2023. Cost are being reduced.
Trading in Artemis Resources (ARV) shares has resumed on ASX. Trading was halted on 8 February although it continued on AIM. Artemis Resources published an update on the West Pilbara project exploration. This shows potential sub vertical orientation of pegmatites at Kobe and Osborne. The first drill hole potentially stopped short of the Osborne target. A drilling programme to test Osborne is planned for March to test near surface lithium rich zones.
M&A activity remains weak at professional services network operator DSW Capital (DSW) and that will hit this year’s profit. There appeared to be an improving trend, but January was poor and that hit network revenues. February is also set to be disappointing. The other activities are trading well. The 2023-24 pre-tax profit will be between £600,000 and £700,000. There was cash of £2.7m at the end of January 2024.
Baron Oil (BOIL) has raised £3m at 0.05p/share, while the retail offer generated £260,000. This will fund drilling preparations for the Chuditch-2 appraisal well south of Timor-Leste, which is planned for the fourth quarter. Shell discovered the Chuditch-1 gas field in the Chuditch production sharing contract in 1998. Timor-Leste authorities recently approved the farm-up agreement with TIMOR GAP Chuditch Unipessoal relating to the production sharing contract. Baron Oil’s subsidiary will retain 60% of the production sharing contract and the partner, which has increased its interest from 25% to 40%, will be responsible for 20% of all costs, including the Chuditch-2 appraisal well.
Beowulf Mining (BEM) is raising cash to invest in Kallak iron ore project in northern Sweden and the graphite anode materials plant in Finland. There will be a rights issue and a PrimaryBid retail offer in the UK raising up to £7.5m in total. A formal decision on the fundraising and pricing will be made on 7 March. A capital reorganisation will reduce the par value of the shares from 1p to 0.1p. The cash will be spent on the Kallak pre-feasibility study and environmental studies, which will enable the application for an environmental permit.
Bushveld Minerals (BMN) has received a $4m payment from Southern Point Resources, which will be repaid when the $12.5m subscription is finally received. This takes the interest free loans to $6m, which have been paid to a South African subsidiary. Southern Point Resources says that the subscription will be paid by 28 February. The financial position of the company is being managed so that vanadium production, which has restarted, can continue until the rest of the cash is received.
Coal miner MC Mining (MCM) advises shareholders not to accept the A$0.16/ share bid from a company controlled by the majority shareholders. One condition is the acceptance by 50.1% of the shares not owned by the bidder.
Crossword Cybersecurity (CCS) has entered a partnership agreement with IT distributor TD SYNNEX, which will sell Crossword’s Trillion threat intelligence platform.
MAIN MARKET
Pendragon has completed the sale of its motor distributor business and will focus on its motor dealer software. The name has changed to Pinewood Technologies (PINE).
Better contract news from data integrity and banking integration software provider Gresham Technologies (GHT), which has secured a $1.5m contract for its Claretti software. The customer is described as a cash management and retail digital services provider. The deal covers the US and is for five years.
HeiQ (HEIQ) is acquiring a manufacturing facility in Portugal to commercialise the AeoniQ synthetic filament yarns technology. Commercial production could start by 2026. Capacity will be 3,000 tons.
HeiQ wants to raise £2.44m. A placing raised £685,000 at 8.7p/share and there is a retail offer of up to £75,000 closing on 22 February. The rest of the cash will come from an issue of non-interest bearing convertible loan notes with a conversion price of 8.7p/share. Revenues were $41m in 2023, but EBITDA will be lower than expected. Net debt is $2m. The year end is being changed from December to June 2024.
XP Power (XPP) says that weak demand meant that 2023 figures will be well below expectations. The 2024 results will be second half weighted. Net debt was £112.7m at the end of 2023.
Carclo (CAR) is closing its Tucson facility and manufacturing will be moved to Pennsylvania.
BSF Enterprise (BSFA) is setting up a separate subsidiary to develop a cultivated leather business.
Dispensa (DISP), originally known as Zamaz, is calling a general meeting on 14 March to gain shareholder approval for the delisting from the standard list.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 9 January 2023
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
The pre-feasibility study for the Amapa iron ore project in Brazil, where Cadence Minerals (KDNC) has a 30% stake in a joint venture that can be increased to 49%, indicates a capital cost of $399m to bring the mine back into production. Based on the cost estimates in the study, WH Ireland believes that at full production the mine could generate a profit contribution of $292m a year – based on iron ore prices of $100/t and $120/t depending on the grade. It believes the project could breakeven at an iron price of $85/t. The price is currently around $115/t. Chief executive Kiran Morzaria bought 45,454 shares at 11p each.
Steen Andersen became chief executive of probiotics products developer ProBiotix Health (PBX) at the beginning of 2023. Revenues are improving and a trading statement will be published in the next few months. Product ranges are expanding and being launched in new countries. ProBiotix e-commerce revenues could be between £250,000 and £500,000 in 2023.
Hydrogen Utopia International (HUI) confirmed that the FCA has approved its admission to the standard list, and this is set to happen on 9 January.
Spinal stabilisation devices developer TruSpine Technologies (TSP) has secured a bridge loan of £200,000 at an 8% interest rate and has a letter of intent from a UK investment group to invest £2.4m. The first tranche of £800,000 will be issued at 4p a share with two other tranches issued at 6p a share and 8p a share respectively. One of the conditions is that Dr Timothy Evans takes on an executive role. Due diligence is being carried out. There was a £786,000 cash outflow from operations and investment in the six months to September 2022.
Inqo Investments (INQO) is collaborating with Belmont University, Nashville on its project to use enterprise to tackle environmental and social issues around the Budongo Forest in Uganda via $4m grant.
Fenikso Ltd (FNK), which was previously called Lekoil, has completed the settlement agreements with Lekoil Nigeria Ltd and its former chief executive, as well as terminating arrangements with Savannah Energy (SAVE). However, Lekoil Nigeria has been given additional time to surrender the 107.7 million shares it holds in Fenikso, which has no operating assets.
Guanajuato Silver Company Ltd (GSVR) has increased its proposed fundraising from C$7.5m to C$8.5m via an issue of units at C$0.425 each. The unit comprises one share and 0.5 of a warrant exercisable at C$0.60. A first tranche of C$6.8m has been issued and the rest should be issued by 10 January.
Mark Horrocks has acquired 5% of IamFire (FIRE). Saagar Ruaparell has taken a 3.21% stake in Quetzal Capital (QTZ).
AIM
One Media IP (OMIP) expects revenues to be £5.1m and EBITDA of £1.8m in the year to October 2022. Revenues are better than forecast, but EBITDA is in line. The music and video IP rights owner has net cash of around £1.4m. Anti-piracy subsidiary TCAT is winning new contracts and One Media IP is no longer considering outside funding for the subsidiary. The annual results will be published in March and the company says that it will pay a final dividend.
Embedded computer products developer Concurrent Technologies (CNC) says 2022 revenues will be 10% ahead of expectations, although pre-tax profit is maintained at around £100,000. Order intake was more than one-quarter ahead at £31m. Double shifts have commenced at the company’s factory. Pre-tax profit is expected to recover to £2.7m in 2023.
Helium One Global (HE1) will not be able to procure the Exalo drilling rig as it had expected because the current user has taken up a 12-month option on its operation. This will delay exploration drilling, which was due to start in the first quarter of 2023.
Cancer diagnostic test developer Angle (AGL) warned that revenues are lower than expected. Revenues will be just above £1m in 2022 after contract delays, while 2023 revenues have been downgraded from £5m to £3.9m. Market conditions have hampered the cancer diagnostics company in securing partnerships and building the commercial use of the Parsortix cancer cells capture technology.
hVIVO (HVO) has secured a £5.2m contract with an Asia Pacific-based biotech company to test a vaccine in a Phase IIa study. This uses the company’s respiratory syncytial virus human challenge study expertise, and the study will be conducted in Whitechapel from the third quarter of 2023.
Cleaning services provider React Group (REAT) has won a two-year contract with a high street fast food chain and it should generate revenues of £800,000 in the year to September 2023. It was an existing client of window cleaning business LaddersFree, which was bought last May.
DeepMatter (DMTR) left AIM on 5 January.
MAIN MARKET
Conversational gaming company Streaks Gaming (STK) has joined the standard list and raised £3m at 3p a share to develop its platform. The initial games will be knowledge-based and be played between AI-generated digital personalities. Initial income will be generated from introducing people to sports betting firms. Aquis-quoted AQRU (AQRU) invested £2.3m of that cash, which should last for two years even with limited revenues. Much of that cash will go on social media platform fees and directors pay. The share price ended the week at 3.5p (3p/4p). There were no shares traded on 5 January with four trades of 122,000 shares the following day.
Cadmium-free quantum dots developer Nanoco (NANO) has come to a settlement agreement in its litigation with Samsung relating to the infringement of Nanoco’s patents. The two companies have 30 days to secure a binding agreement. The US court proceedings were due to start on 6 January.
Funeral director Dignity (DTY) believes the latest offer from a consortium involving major shareholder Phoenix Asset Management could be acceptable. The initial offer was 475p a share, while the latest revised proposal is 525p a share in cash. Phoenix Asset Management owns 29.7% of Dignity. The bid vehicle is Yellow (SPC) Bidco Ltd, which is a joint venture between Phoenix Asset Management backed investment company Castelnau, which is managed by former Dignity chief executive Gary Channon, and a company established by Sir Peter Wood.
Antimicrobial and textile odour control materials developer HeiQ (HEIQ) says trading conditions have worsened because of weak consumer spending. There are also high levels of inventory in the market, which has hit reorder levels and customers are hesitant to invest in product innovation. HeiQ is acquiring Tarn-Pure for £850,000 in cash and shares. Tarn-Pure has IP relating to regulatory registrations to sell elemental copper and elemental silver for use in disinfecting hygiene applications.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 5 December 2022
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Good Energy (GOOD) says trading to the end of October was in line with expectations, but the subsequent mild winter has reduced gas consumption. Risk management actions should enable the energy supplier to meet 2022 expectations. There was £21.2m in cash at the end of October 2022. Heat pump installer Igloo Works has been acquired for £1.75m. Last year’s revenues were £1m. This will form an energy services division.
Invinity Energy Systems (IES) has sold 15MWh of vanadium flow batteries to Everdura Technology in Taiwan. A deposit will be paid soon, and the first deliveries will be late in 2023. This is the largest ever single order and there is follow-on potential of 255MWh over three years and it will help to underpin 2023 forecast revenues of £23.7m.
Capital for Colleagues (CFCP) has acquired Staffordshire-based MI Accountancy Solutions, which already provides accountancy services to the employee owned businesses investor’s clients. The cost is £90,000 with a further £20,000 deferred depending on performance.
Hydrogen Utopia International (HUI) has entered an agreement with Fishertown Property for a proposed lease of a 2.5 acre site in County Longford. This will become its first full scale waste plastic to hydrogen in Europe. A €50,000 payment has been made and an option for the site is being negotiated.
Tectonic Gold (TTAU) has completed drilling at the Specimen Hill project in Queensland. This has intersected a geophysical target below high-grade historic mine. An adjacent target has also been intersected. Joint venture discussions will be pursued.
Guanajuato Silver Company Ltd (GSVR) produced 700,264 of silver equivalent ounces in the third quarter, which is more than double the previous quarter. Cash costs fell by 19% to $19.53/ounce. However, lower silver and gold prices meant that the loss increased.
Field Systems Designs Holdings (FSD) was still affected by Covid in the year to May 2022. The mechanical and engineering contractor’s revenues fell from £9.98m to £8.09m. That meant that the loss increased from £534,000 to £1.9m. Revenues from the water sector have not grown as expected, but work is coming through. More than £9m of work has been secured for this year.
IamFire (FIRE) has subscribed for £2m of convertible loan notes in WeShop Holdings, which could be converted into one million shares, while an existing £4m investment would convert into 1.33 million shares. IamFire has the right to subscribe for a further £1.75m of convertibles. IamFire also holds convertibles in a shell that owns 25% of WeShop.
Pioneer Media Holdings (PNER) generated initial revenues of $482,000 in the year to May 2022. There was a reported loss of $28.6m, after $25.7m of impairment charges and fair value changes on investments. There was a credit of $3.26m relating to changes on accrued consideration. The cash outflow from operations was $2.14m. There is cash of $1.65m.
Recently floated Cooks Coffee Company (COOK) increased interim operational revenues by 37% to NZ$1.93m. Overall revenues fell because of the timing of recognising capital revenues on store openings. Pre-tax profit improved from NZ$128,000 to NZ$146,000 as costs were reduced.
Africa-focused sustainable investment company Inqo Investments (INQO) increased interim revenues from R608,000 to R3.39m. The loss was slightly reduced at R5.18m after a sharp increase in employee costs.
Nine months revenues from Yooma Wellness Inc (YOOM) improved from $4.91m to $8.91m and the reported loss was reduced.
Marula Mining (MARU) secured a 73% commercial interest in the Bagamoyo graphite project in Tanzania, which includes 22 graphite mining licences.
In the six months to August 2022, Asia Wealth Group Holdings Ltd (AWLP) reported a decline in revenues from $940,000 to $844,000 and it moved from profit to loss. There was $1.19m in the bank at the end of August 2022.
Ace Liberty and Stone (ALSP) says that it received £3.07m from its open offer at 25p a share, compared with the £4.56m it was seeking.
Evrima (EVA) chief executive Burns Singh Tennent-Bhohi has made a £250,000 secured convertible loan facility available to the company. So far, £100,000 has been drawn down. This matures at the end of November 2023 and the coupon is 10%.
Goodbody Health (GDBY) chief executive Marc Howells has resigned, and George Thomas has replaced him.
AIM
Online retailer boohoo (BOO) has increased its stake in Revolution Beauty (REVB) from 13% to 26%. Bob Holt has taken over as chief executive. The shares remain suspended and there are still concerns about the 2021-22 figures.
Digital media company Digitalbox (DBOX) has acquired The Poke (www.thepoke.co.uk) for an undisclosed sum. It picks humorous content from the internet, unlike the Daily Mash which writes its own content. The Poke generated revenues of £170,000 in the year to November 2021.
Duke Royalty (DUKE) reported a 67% increase in recurring interim cash revenues from its royalty investments and free cash flow was 1.71p a share. There was a further improvement in cash revenues in the third quarter.
First Property (FPO) reported a fall in reported profit due to one-offs, but the interim dividend was maintained at 0.25p a share. NAV is 48.3p a share, not including any valuation for the investment management business, which is more than twice the share price.
A trading update from Light Source Technologies (LST) says that farmers are reluctant to commit to capital investment and that has slowed progress leading to a higher loss in the year to November 2023. The growers are finding it difficult to pass on cost increases to customers, so they are not making the commitment to install the controlled environment technology. Also, contract manufacturing margins have declined.
Venture Life Group (LON: VLG) is buying HL Healthcare, which owns Earol, EarolSwim and Sterinase, for £13m. The products generated EBITDA of £1.7m in 2021-22 and they should do better this year – £3m of the consideration is dependent on 2022-23 revenues. Venture Life is expected to make a 2022 pre-tax profit of £946,000 and that could improve to more than £4m in 2023.
Telecoms customer engagement software provider Pelatro (LON: PTRO) says the currency movements between the US dollar and Indian Rupee will lead to a shortfall in reported revenues this year. Along with other factors, this will reduce revenues by up to $800,000, although the currency movements will have a positive effect on costs that partly offsets the shortfall. EBITDA will be slightly below expectations. Some new clients are moving to a licence model, which means revenue will be recognised earlier.
Luxury brand Mulberry Group (MUL) reported flat interim revenues with higher international sales offsetting a decline in the UK. Mulberry moved from profit to loss as marketing and other spending was increased. There was an £11.2m cash outflow from operations.
Compliance and maintenance services provider Kinovo (KINO) continues to improve its profit in the six months to September 2022 and it has a strong order book. Revenues improved by one-quarter to £29.8m in the first half. Margins continue to rise with underlying pre-tax profit recovering from £1.61m to £2.1m. Three-year visible revenues total £146m, which includes contracts and predictable spend. That underpins around 90% of the 2022-23 forecast revenues of £62.1m. Net debt has fallen to below £100,000. However, in the short-term debt will increase again because of the requirements to finish contracts that are part of DCB, which was sold and then went into administration. Part of the deal was that Kinovo would guarantee the completion of projects. This could cost a total of £4.3m.
Inspiration Healthcare (IHC) says that it expects 2022-23 revenues to be similar to the previous year because of market uncertainty, particularly in China. Cenkos has reduced its forecast revenues from £45m to £41.1m. Because the reduction relates to higher margin products it means that pre-tax profit will dive from £3.96m last year to £540,000 this year.
Floorcoverings distributor Likewise (LIKE) says third quarter like-for-like sales were 21.8% higher and in October and November this accelerated to 27.7%. Total sales have more than doubled this year.
Fox Marble (FOX) has won damages and costs in its arbitration proceedings with a customer in India. Damages were Euro383,177 and costs were £454,584. The customer has 28 days to challenge the award.
MAIN MARKET
Antimicrobial and textile odour control materials developer HeiQ (HEIQ) has acquired the land and property of Chem-Tex Laboratories Inc in the US for $2.5m in cash and shares at 74.4p each. Securing the site will enable further expansion. The focus of manufacturing investment will be the US because of the availability of chemicals and the reduced exposure to rising energy prices.
Edward Spencer is requisitioning a general meeting at MetalNRG (MNRG). He owns 7.3% of the company and wants to remove the chairman and chief executive. He wants four people to be voted onto the board, including himself.
Highway Capital (HWC) has still not completed the acquisition of Guinevere Esports and Entertainment, which was announced in October 2021. Highway made an interim loss of £243,000.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 17 October 2022
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Invinity Energy Systems (IES) is having a good week. Early in the week it announced a sale of a a 0.8MWh Invinity VS3 flow battery system to Equans Belux and then it won a California Energy Commission project as part of a consortium developing a large solar-plus-storage microgrid. Invinity Energy Systems will provide a 10MWh vanadium flow battery system. Delivery is expected in 2023. There is also a new relationship with US Vanadium, which could lead to a joint venture.
Vulcan Industries (VULC) is acquiring Peregrine X, which has developed diagnostic technology and the initial market will be oil well-head analysis. There are also medical uses. The initial consideration will be £1m of zero-coupon convertible loan notes with a further four tranches of £1m depending on progress. The total number of loan notes would be converted int a 46.2% stake in the company. The seller will also receive 500 million warrants exercisable at 1p a share. They will also receive 70% of post-tax earnings generated by Peregrine up until 2,000 tests have been contracted and 200 delivered. There are currently no revenues. This deal marks a move away from the engineering sector.
British Honey Company (BHC) has launched a strategic review of the business and sources of finance. A sale of the company is an alternative. Management expects to publish its 2021 results and 2022 interims before the end of October. More cash is required for working capital by the end of November.
Consumer businesses operator Silverwood Brands (SLWD) has announced a loss of £300,000 for the period to August 2022. The UK consumer market is tough and Silverwood is trying to increase its sales overseas.
Semper Fortis Esprit (SEMP) has ended all its contracts with esports players, and it is seeking other ways to exploit the market.
Capital for Colleagues (CFCP) has sold its holding of A shares in Hire and Supplies Ltd for £970,000 and reinvested £1.21m in new ordinary shares, giving it a 20.8% stake.
Hydrogen Utopia International (HUI) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Poland-based Elkard in relation to a plastic waste processing plant producing energy. They will start looking for a suitable site and the two companies will share the costs.
Arbuthnot Banking Group (ARBB) has completed the sale of Arbuthnot Latham’s West End office. The offer was previously indicated as £60m. Chairman and chief executive Sir Henry Angest bought 25,000 shares at 820p each.
Igraine (KING) has bought a 10.2% stake in Oscillate (MUSH) and its executive director Stephen Winfield has joined the Oscillate board.
MiLOC Group Ltd (ML.P) has raised nearly £40,000 at 20p a share. BWA Holdings (BWAP) has been unable to raise up to £500,000 via share issue and it may have to sell assets or issue more loan notes. A holder of £516,000 of RentGuarrantor Holdings (RGG) loan notes has converted them into 312,495 shares, which is just short of 3% of the enlarged share capital.
EPE Special Opportunities Ltd (EO.P) had net assets of 242.3p a share at the end of September 2022.
Valereum (VLRM) has appointed First Sentinel Corporate Finance as corporate adviser.
AIM
Energy and water efficiency equipment provider Eneraqua Technologies (ETP) grew its interim revenues from a combination of organic growth and a contribution from recent acquisition Welltherm, which provides drilling services for heat pump installation. Revenues were 92% higher at £24.2m, while underlying pre-tax profit was £3m. Full year expectations are covered by contracted orders as are nearly three-quarters of next year’s forecast revenues. A full year pre-tax profit of £10.6m is forecast. There are plans to move into the consumer market, but that will not make a meaningful contribution until next year – although there will be £500,000 of marketing costs.
Drug developer Evgen (EVG) is partnering with Swiss biotech Stalicia for the potential use of SFX-01 for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder and other CNS disorders. This deal could generate up to $160.5m in milestone payments and double-digit royalties, although that is a long way away. The upfront payment is $500,000 with a further $500,000 once a volunteer study is completed in the first half of 2023. If the FDA approves an investigational new drug admission that will spark a $5m payment – possibly next year. Evgen is also undertaking an additional early-stage study for the treatment of glioblastoma using SFX-01.
Interior design and furnishings supplier Sanderson Design Group (SDG) improved its interim profit, but trading was weaker in August. In the six months to July 2022, revenues edged up by 0.7% to £57.9m, although that does reflect the ending of business in Russia. Underlying pre-tax profit improved from £5.6m to £6.3m, helped by additional high margin licence fee income. The interim dividend is maintained at 0.75p a share.
Faron Pharmaceuticals (FARN) completed a placing raising €8.4m at €1.85 each. The cash will be used for the acceleration of the bexmarilimab, which is an immunotherapy treatment for difficult-to-treat cancers, clinical development programme and manufacturing.
Data analysis software provider WANdisco (WAND) has generated bookings of $61.2m so far this year with the majority coming in the third quarter. This is already higher than expectations for the full year and there is more to come. There was $26.3m in the bank at the end of September 2022, helped by upfront cash payments on contracts. Losses continue, though.
Property lending platform operator Lendinvest (LINV) reported platform assets under management one-third higher at £2.4bn, but finnCap has downgraded its full year forecast. Interest rate volatility is hampering margins. Chief executive Rod Lockhart bought 27,111 shares at 67.5p each and the chief investment officer bought 60,000 shares at 63.75p each.
Coral Products (CRU) has acquired Ecodeck Grids, which supplies building and landscape products for driveways and shed bases. There is an initial payment of £3.35m in cash and shares, with up to £1.25m more potentially payable. The products use 100% recycled plastic.
Beeks Financial Cloud (BKS) reported an improvement in full year underlying pre-tax profit from £1.6m to £2.1m. It is forecast to increase to £3.2m this year.
Sierra Oncology Inc is returning the rights to SRA737, which was jointly developed by Sareum Holdings (SAR) and the Institute of Cancer Research, to the CRT Pioneer Fund.
Investment publisher Bonhill (BONH) has commenced a strategic review that could lead to the sale of the company or separate businesses. Trading remains difficult and shareholder Rockwood Strategic (RKW) is providing a £800,000 loan facility.
MAIN MARKET
OTAQ (OTAQ) is raising £2m via a placing at 4p a share, while a four-for-five open offer could raise up to £1.2m more. It is also moving from the standard list to the Access segment of the Aquis Stock Exchange. There is also a broker option that could raise up to £400,000 if there is enough demand. In order to raise the cash, the nominal value of the shares is being reduced from 15p to 1p. Every four new shares taken up will come with a warrant exercisable at 12p. The fundraising is dependent on shareholders agreeing the move to Aquis, which is planned for 9 November. In aquaculture, OTAQ has developed sonar technology that scans shrimps, live plankton analysis systems and water quality monitoring software. The geotracking operations have developed a rail personnel and asset safety and sports trackers.
Raj Unnikandeth is stepping down as a director of Zamaz (ZAMZ) six weeks after it floated. Zamaz believes that its technology platform can help to efficiently build brands via e-commerce. Earlier in the week, Zamaz acquired 70% of Italy-based food and wine retailer Eccellenze through its existing food platform subsidiary Bella Dispensa. This follows the purchase of Italian meat products supplier Ecocarni.
HeiQ (HEIQ) has filed a complaint in the US against ICP Industrial Inc for breaching exclusive agreement terms. The agreement relates to the use of HeiQ Viroblock in printing processes. ICP has failed to pay royalties or minimum fee payments, as well as not providing timely reports.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 19 September 2022
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
ProBiotix Health (PBX) has secured a new commercial partner in Asia Pacific. Nutraceutical business Nutraconnect will develop and implement strategies for ProBiotix Health ingredients in Asia Pacific.
IamFire (FIRE) says investee company WeShop Holdings had 23,000 user downloads by the end of August. Transactions increased from 2,633 in July to 5,981 in August. Average spend per transaction has increased to £81. A US launch is planned.
Gunsynd (GUN) is making a further conditional investment of £100,000 in ASX-listed Rincon Resources. The investment is dependent on Rincon Resources shareholder approval.
Fintech investment company Eight Capital Partners (ECP) has generated £1m in fees from Zamaz (ZAMZ), which joined the standard list a fortnight ago. Zamaz believes that its technology platform can help to efficiently build direct to consumer brands via e-commerce. Other Eight Capital Partners revenue have been modest.
Evrima (EVA) says investee company Premium Nickel Resources has created a new metals division.
Spirits brand Rogue Baron (SHNJ) says that a third party has been contacting investor saying it is raising cash for the company, which is not true. Rogue Baron is considering ways of raising further funds.
SulNOx Group (SNOX) has won a new order from Ghana for SulNOxEco fuel conditioner. There is enough to treat six million litres of diesel, which is a larger order than the previous one. New agreements are being discussed in other African countries.
Site works have commenced at the Blesberg lithium and tantalum project in South Africa. Marula Mining (MARU) says mining permits have been applied for.
A company associated with Asimilar Group (ASLR) non-exec director Mark Horrocks has acquired 750,000 shares at 4.1p each, which takes his share interest to 5.27%.
Engineering company Vulcan Industries (VULC) has raised £132,000 at 0.92p a share. Superseed Capital Ltd (WWW) has issued £1m of convertible loan notes to SuperSeed Venture LLP, which is its investment manager. The conversion price is 130p a share.
Barry Hersh is a 9.98% shareholder in Rural Broadband Solutions (RBBS). PEU SA has a 7.56% stake in Eastinco Mining and Exploration (EM.P).
AIM
Churchill China (CHH) had an extremely strong first half in 2022 because of demand for hospitality products. Sales of plates and other products to restaurants and hotels were behind the 73% growth in revenues to £41.4m. Sales of retail products declined as production focused on hospitality products. Churchill China is gaining market share in the UK and internationally. The interim dividend is 57% ahead at 10.5p a share. A full year pre-tax profit of £8.8m is forecast.
New admission Aurrigo International (AURR) has risen a further 9.52% to 57.5p. The transport technology products supplier raised £8m at 48p a share when it joined AIM. The cash will be invested in the aviation technology division and to develop new products.
Broker and administrator Jarvis Securities (JIM) has appointed Ocreus to review systems and controls at its main subsidiary after it ran into trouble with the FCA. This will take between three and six months. Jarvis has voluntarily agreed not to take on new clients from certain existing Model B corporate clients until the systems have been reviewed. The restrictions should not hamper forecast revenues and profit, although the costs of the review could hamper shareholder dividends from Jarvis Securities. This news was announced late on Friday and the share price nearly halved.
Retail brand Joules (JOUL) has ended its talks with retailer NEXT (NEXT) about a cash injection, leaving it with the need to find another source of funding. That is likely to require a share issue.
Baby products retailer Mothercare (MTC) reported revenues falling from £85.8m to £82.8m, but it returned to profit. The figures were at the top end of expectations and the company was cash generative. finnCap forecasts a fall in pre-tax profit from £8m to £1.9m this year. The pension deficit is declining.
TV and film production services provider Facilities by ADF (ADF) had tough comparisons for its interim figures and reported pre-tax profit was lower. Revenues improved from £11.5m to £12.6m, but the lack of large productions and higher overheads since flotation mean that profit was lower. There will be more, and higher value, productions in the second half, so some of the profit shortfall should be offset. Flotation funds are being used to increase the size of the vehicle fleet.
Artisanal Spirits Company (ART) increased membership by 24% in the first half of 2022. This growth was international, and the current membership is around 36,000. Full year revenues are expected to increase from £18.2m to £21.6m. The value of the casks of whisky in stock has increased from £430m to £455m in the latest six month period.
Cyber security services provider Corero Network Security (CNS) improved sales in the first half and growth could accelerate in the second half. Full year revenues are forecast to increase by one-third to $27.9m. Demand for cyber security continues to increase. Corero should breakeven this year.
Strong growth in first half revenues at plant-based polymers developer Itaconix (ITX) means that it is set to double full year revenues to $5.2m. Revenues trebled from cleaning applications. There was $900,000 of net cash at the end of June 2022.
The Property Franchise Group (TPFG) increased interim revenues by 18% to £13.1m and pre-tax profit was 9% higher at £3.8m. The interim dividend was increased by 11% to 4.2p a share. Trading remains strong even though house buying incentives were ended last year.
Building and architecture software supplier Eleco (ELCO) did not surprise the market with the 3% decline in interim revenues to £13.4m, although recurring revenues were 9% higher at £8.2m. This reflects the change to a SaaS model. Pre-tax profit was 23% down at £2.1m due to higher costs.
Ncondezi Energy Ltd (NCCL) has replaced a working capital facility with a convertible loan and more cash is being made available. The shareholder loan repayment cannot be demanded before 30 November 2023.
Shell company Advance Energy (ADV) raised £425,000 at 0.085p a share. There are warrants attached to each new share that are exercisable at 0.13p a share. The cash will enable management to investigate a suitable reverse takeover candidate and fund due diligence. Management is in talks with the majority owner of a European oil and gas company and trading in the shares is suspended. Any deal will be funded with shares and via an earn-out based on production. The suspension will continue until a prospectus is published or the deal does not happen.
Tertiary Minerals (TYM) has signed a technical co-operation agreement with First Quantum Minerals for two copper projects in Zambia – Mukai and Mushima North. Mukai is next door to First Quantum’s Trident project. First Quantum also has interests in the same region as Mushima North. First Quantum will supply historical exploration date for the areas. First Quantum does not have first right of refusal over the projects.
MAIN MARKET
Fintech Asia Ltd (FINA) is seeking fintech acquisitions. This includes mobile banking, digital payments and blockchain. It raised £1.46m at 50p a share, before expenses of £613,000. The cash should finance the operating of the company and investigating potential acquisitions for more than one year. Further share issues will be required when any targets are identified, and deals secured. There were no trades reported on the first two days. The current share price is 55.5p (53p/57p).
Ikigai Ventures Ltd (IKIV) is looking to acquire businesses with a positive social impact strategy, particularly those based in Asia. It has a similar shareholder base to Fintech Asia. Ikigai Ventures raised £2.09m at 50p a share, before expenses of £714,000. That cash should last more than one year. There were no trades reported on the first two days. The current share price is 55.5p (53p/57p).
Innovative materials developer HeiQ (HEIQ) increased interim revenues by 17% to $30.3m and it is making progress with newer products, such as AeoniQ and GrapheneX. Hygiene products generated 43% of total revenues. Service and licence revenues more than trebled. There was $9.5m in the bank at the end of June 2022. Cenkos expects revenues to grow from $57.9m to $69.4m in the full year and grow by a further 10% next year. The 2022 pre-tax profit is expected to be $4.8m.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 18 April 2022
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Brewer Adnams (ADB) increased its revenues from £50.7m to £57.4m in 2021 and the loss was reduced from £4.3m to £1.39m. There is no final dividend. Net bank debt was £11m. The pension liability more than halved from £11.2m to £5m. Beer volumes were maintained.
S-Ventures (SVEN) says headwinds in the economy have held back sales of its healthy snacks. Even so, like-for-like sales are currently 10% ahead of last year. Cost savings of £300,000 a year have been found at the Pulsin plant-based products business.
Watchstone Group (WTG) subsidiary WTGIL Ltd has lost its VAT appeal. It is considering whether to take the appeal to the Upper tax Tribunal.
Cannabis-related products supplier Voyager Life (VOY) has opened three stores and relaunched its website in the year to March 2022. The Ascend Skincare brand was launched. There was £14.3m in the bank at the end of March 2022. Monthly overheads were just under £50,000. In the 16 months to March 2022, revenue reached £178,000. Revenues are steadily growing. Voyager is still waiting for ingestible products to receive authorisation from the authorities.
KR1 (KR1) has invested $700,000 in Zeitgeist in return for one million ZTG tokens. Zeitgeist is an application specific blockchain for prediction markets and futarchy.
Eastinco Mining and Exploration (EM.P) says that Aterian Resources has been awarded a ten year mining licence for the Agdz copper and silver project in Morocco. Eastinco has agreed to acquire Aterian from AIM-quoted Altus Strategies (ALS). Once the Aterian acquisition is completed Eastinco plans to move to the Main Market.
Goodbody Health (GDBY) says subsidiary PhytoVista Laboratories has been granted a licence to handle Schedule 1 controlled drugs.
Chris Akers has increased his stake in TECC Capital (TEC) from 10.6% to 11.1%. Robert Johnson reduced his stake to below 3%. Chief executive Kiran Morzaria has bought 54,422 shares in Cadence Minerals (KDNC) at 18.37p a share.
Vulcan Industries (VULC) has extended two loans with £1.225m payable on 16 April 2023 and £629,000 on 4 July 2023.
EPE Special Opportunities (ESO) had net assets of 368.49p a share at the end of March 2022.
AIM
Recycling Technologies has pulled its AIM flotation after its chief executive stepped down due to personal reasons. It had apparently raised the money it was seeking but the late change meant that the company has decided to have a smaller private fundraising before having another attempt at floating on AIM.
Loadbanks maker and hirer Northbridge Industrial Services (NBI) is able to concentrate on its core business following the disposal of Tasman. In 2021, revenues from continuing operations were one-fifth higher with a greater proportion of hire business. Pre-tax profit trebled to £3.3m, before the restructuring and convertible loan note redemption costs of £7.6m, which were predominantly asset write-downs. There was a 1p a share dividend. The company is changing its name to Crestchic.
Online electricals retailer Marks Electrical (MRK) reported full year revenues that were 44% ahead at £80.5m and EBITDA margins are 9%. The fourth quarter revenues to March 2022 were 19% ahead at £20.7m. The comparatives are particularly strong because they were during a period of lockdowns when online sales made up a higher proportion of appliance sales. Pre-tax profit is still expected to decline from £6.8m to £6.1m in 2021-22 due to additional overhead costs.
Cambridge Cognition (COG) is building up its clinical trial business. Full year revenues increased by 50% to £10.1m and the digital health company moved into profit. There was £6.8m in the bank at the end of 2021. At least £7.5m of the year-end order book of £17m should be recognised in 2022. More contracts have been secured since the end of 2021.
Asset management services provider MJ Hudson (MJH) grew interim revenues by 48% to £23.4m with particularly strong growth in ESG-related services. Underlying pre-tax profit quadrupled to £1.6m. Net debt excluding leases was £13m at the end of December 2021. New business activity remains strong and there is no direct effect from the weak stockmarkets on revenues. Guernsey-based Saffery Champness Fund Services was acquired during the period.
Telematics firm Microlise (SAAS) reported revenues of £88.2m in the 18 months to December 2021. Annual revenues grew by 17%. Existing customers generated £35.6m in 2021 and there is hardly any customer churn. Annual recurring revenues are £38.9m.
AEX Gold (AEXG) has announced exploration results from the iron oxide, copper, gold project at Sava in southern Greenland. These showed that there is mineralisation. There are three high priority targets.
The lock-up period for shares in Poolbeg Pharma (POLB) distributed by Open Orphan (ORPH) ends on 20 April and new investors are hoping to buy up to £1.6m of shares at 5.9p each. The share price subsequently recovered to 6.7p, having been sliding in recent months ahead of the end of the lock-up period when there were concerns there could be a significant number of shares coming onto the market.
Ince (INCE) is going ahead with the acquisition of broker Arden Partners (ARDN) even though it is losing its nominated adviser status. The merger should be completed on 29 April.
MAIN MARKET
Financials Acquisition Corp (FINS) is a shell looking for a financial services acquisition, particularly in the insurance area. The focus is technology that is used to make the insurance sector more efficient. There was £150m raised at £10 a share. The share price ended the week at 997.5p.
It took a year to secure the transaction, but DG Innovate (DGI) has completed its reversal into Path Investments. The purchase of the electric drive and sodium-ion battery technology developer cost an initial £32.4m in shares at a deemed price of 0.6p a share, which was well above the market price. There was also £2.55m raised at 0.5p a share. The shares opened at 0.45p and ended the week at 0.305p.
Materials developer HeiQ (HEIQ) estimates that revenues were $57.9m thanks to a good fourth quarter. This is despite deferring revenues and $1m in operating profit from technology milestones for the agreement with the Lycra Company for its AeoniQ material into 2022. Operating profit is expected to be $3.4m, compared with the $4m forecast. Revenues are expected to grow by one-fifth this year.
Natural ingredients supplier Treatt (TET) grew interim revenues by 9% to £66.3m. The operating profit will be second half weighted.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 21 February 2022
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
National Milk Records (NMRP) improved interim revenues by 6% to £11.4m, while pre-tax profit increased by 53% to £750,000. There was a £1m cash inflow from operations. Net debt was £1.1m at the end of December 2021. Genomics testing revenues were 17% higher. The interim dividend has been raised from 1.25p a share to 1.5p a share. Milk prices are strong, but costs are increasing.
Grid storage technology developer Invinity Energy Systems (IES) plans to gain a quotation on Aquis, while retaining its AIM quotation. This is so that it can also obtain an Aquis Access quotation for its warrants, which were issued in a fundraising at the end of last year. The short-term warrants are exercisable at 150p a share up until 15 September. The long-term warrants are exercisable at 225p a share up until 16 December 2024. The current share price is 77p.
Natural foods company S-Ventures (SVEN) has acquired the business of Livia’s Health Foods, which makes plant-based food treats. This includes Million Squares, Nugglets and Dunx. S-Ventures is paying £350,000 in cash and shares. The business has been loss making and generated revenues of £1.3m in the 12 months to January 2022. If revenues exceed £600,000 in the 10 months after acquisition than a further £100,000 is payable. VSA forecasts S-Ventures 2022 EBITDA of £1.8m.
Goodbody Health inc (GDBY) is launching blood testing through itkino, nbi, fire, shnj, coin, s network of clinics. More pharmacies are being added to the network. Covid tests are running at more than 500 a day even though UK testing requirements have been eased. The first clinic has been opened in Vancouver, Canada. Arden is forecasting a 2022 pre-tax profit of £5.1m, but this could depend on whether the level of Covid testing continues at these levels.
ChallengerX (CXS) has appointed John May as non-exec chairman and Brian Connell will take over as chief executive. Management is trying to unfreeze cash held in the accounts of its French subsidiary and says that they were mistakenly frozen after the former chief executive was arrested. There is still £550,000 of cash available for use by the company.
Western Selection (WESP) increased net assets to 68p a share at the end of 2021 thanks to gains on disposals and an uplift in the remaining stakes in Kinovo (KINO) and Northbridge Industrial Services (NBI). Net debt was £674,000 at the end of December 2021. There is no dividend.
IamFire (FIRE) has subscribed for a further £2m of convertible loan notes in WeShop. The conversion price is 75p a share. The beta version of the WeShop platform is on course.
Rogue Baron (SHNJ) is launching its Shinju whisky in the UK. This will be the first market with an 8-year old version of the whisky.
Coinsilium Group Ltd (COIN) is advising fashion brand Blvck Paris for the launch of the Blvck Genesis NFT collection.
Hydrogen Utopia International (HUI) says that talks with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries concerning the potential development of plastic waste to hydrogen facilities in Japan have ended.
SuperSeed Capital (WWW) managing director Mads Jensen has bought shares, while related party Capex Ventures sold 50,000 shares at 100p each, taking his interest to 81.9%. The shareholding of Anne Mette Horneman increased from 4.25% to 6.75%.
AIM
Franchise Brands (FRAN) has launched a recommended all share bid for kitchen services provider Filta Holdings (FLTA). The offer is 1.157 shares for each Filta share. Management and related parties own the majority of Filta. Shareholders owning more than 81% of Filta are backing the bid. Filta boss Jason Sayers will continue to run Filta, which provides cooking oil filtration and drain management services to restaurants and other venues in the UK and North America. Metro Rod, Metro Plumb and Willow Pumps are already owned by Franchise Brands and these services can be offered to Filta’s customer base in the UK.
Shield Therapeutics (STX) got off to a slow start with its Ferracu iron deficiency treatment launch in the US. Total 2021 revenues, including European income, were £1.5m. Forecasts are all over the place. The statement was in line with Peel Hunt’s forecast but well below the finnCap estimate. The 2022 revenues forecasts are the other way around with Peel Hunt (£27.9m) being much more optimistic than finnCap (£9.9m). They agree Shield will continue to lose money, though. This shows that management does not have any real idea what is going to happen, or it could have provided better guidance. Hopefully, there shall be better information when the full year results are published.
Circle Property (CRC) is selling one of its main properties and plans to return cash to shareholders. Circle Property is selling Kents Hill Park Conference Centre to LXI REIT for £34.5m – 1.5% ahead of book value. There are plans to sell other properties.
Domain name and online marketing services provider CentralNic (CNIC) is doing much better than initial expectations in 2022. Online marketing services is where the growth is coming from. Broker Zeus has upgraded its 2022 pre-tax profit forecast from $37.2m to $39m. CentralNic is acquiring Fireball Search and the .ruhr top level domain, which has around 10,000 domain registrations, for €600,000 in cash. A maiden dividend is likely to be announced with the 2021 figures.
Cloud-based conferencing services provider LoopUp (LOOP) says the 2021 trading outcome was in line with previously downgraded expectations, but lack of cash could become a problem. Last year’s revenues were £19.5m, down from £50.2m in 2020, which was a bumper year. It is also well below the £42.5m generated in 2019. The loss is expected to be more than £10m in 2021 and 2022. Net debt was £2.5m at the end of 2021 and it is forecast to rise to £5.7m at the end of 2022.
SkinBioTerapeutics (SBTX) is still optimistic about the prospects for the AxisBiotix-Ps food supplement treatment for psoriasis, but the second phase of the launch, which has just commenced, will be an important indicator of success. The first significant revenues will be in the second half of the year to June 2022. The SkinBiotix cosmetic ingredient is ready to be mass produced by Croda, which is talking to potential cosmetics customers.
Frontier IP (FIPP) has raised a further £3.2m from the sale of ADSs in AI-based drug discovery company Exscientia compared with a book value of £1.75m. Froniter IP has raised £6.1m in total and retains 1.17 million ADSs.
Ariana Resources (AAU) will pay a special dividend of 0.175p a share on 25 March with another payment of the same amount due later this year. Ariana says that drilling at the Kilrou deposit in Cyprus has confirmed the existence of gold at the site, as well as copper and zinc.
MAIN MARKET
Antimicrobial and textile odour control materials developer HeiQ (HEIQ) has secured a development partnership with Hugo Boss for HeiQ AeoniQ, a high-performance yarn. Hugo Boss is investing $5m in a subsidiary that holds the technology, which values that company at $200m. AeoniQ is designed as a sustainable alternative to oil-based nylon and polyester, which take up to 1,000 years to degrade and generate $135bn a year in fibre sales. HeiQ AeoniQ yarns are made from cellulosic biopolymers. The LYCRA Company will become the exclusive distributor of HeiQ AeoniQ yarns, and it will also make a financial contribution. The first product should be available in the second half of 2022.
Standard listed shell CYBA (CYBA) has agreed the acquisition of Narf Industries, which is a cyber security business, for $26.5m in cash and shares issued at 2p each. A placing will raise £6m at 2p a share. In 2020, Narf revenues were $2.78m and in the first half of 2021 they were $1.05m. SaaS subscriptions are generating an increasing proportion of revenues. Further acquisitions are planned.
BATM Advanced (BVC) says that its 2021 pre-tax profit figures will be slightly higher than expectations of $23m. The figures will be announced on 28 February.
Cizzle Biotechnology (CIZ) has agreed to acquire a 5% economic interest in AZD1656, a potential treatment for patients with Covid-19. This agreement was made with Conduit Pharmaceuticals and St George Street Capital and is in addition to previous agreements. Conduit has taken a 8.98% stake in Cizzle as part of the deal.
Studio Retail (STU) intends to appoint administrators.
Cash shell MAC Alpha Ltd (MACA) had £700,000 in cash at the end of 2021. Net assets are £369,000.
Andrew Hore
Quoted Micro 4 October 2021
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Wine maker Chapel Down Group (CDGP) increased interim revenues by 35% to £8.11m, which included £287,000 from the brewing business, which has been sold. Chapel Down moved from loss to profit in the first half. Underlying pre-tax profit was £459,000, helped by £73,000 of government grant income. Wine volumes increased by 66%. Pro forma net cash is £6m, following the recent fundraising.
Digital assets investor KR1 (KR1) reported an NAV of 80.3p a share at the end of June 2021, up from 29p a share at the end of 2020. There was a £69.5m gain on intangible and financial assets.
Property investor Ace Liberty and Stone (ALSP) returned to profit in the year to April 2021. The value of the portfolio was 3% higher at £89.9m. A loss of £742,000 was turned into a pre-tax profit of £1.39m. Contracts have been exchanged for the purchase of a property in Stafford for £1.26m, where the annual rent is £95,000. The sale of properties in Leeds and Dudley are due to complete.
Tectonic Gold (TTAU) has sold a 60% stake in Whale Head Minerals to AIM-quoted Kazera Global Investments (KZG) in return for 13.5 million shares, which have been assigned to Consolidated Minerals to settle a A$279,732 loan. Tectonic retains a non-diluting 10% interest in Whale Head Minerals.
Coinsilium (COIN) made a pre-tax profit of £333,000 in the first half of 2021. A net fair value gain on unlisted investments of £793,000 was offset by a £148,000 investment write-down. There was a £136,000 cash outflow from operating activities.
NFT Investments (NFT) had net cash of £29.3m at the end of June 2021. So far, two investments have been made, including one after June. Management admits that the digital asset investment sector has been volatile and NFT is being highly selective.
Cancer treatment company Rutherford Health (RUTH) has increased its full year revenues from £5.6m to £7.3m. The operating loss increased from £25.7m to £31.1m. Additional investment has been obtained since the end of February 2021.
Incanthera (INC) has frilled two trademark names for its Sol skin cancer formulation. They are ACTINOMOD AND ACTINODERM.
Arbuthnot Banking (ARBB) has sold a further 220,000 shares in Secure Trust, raising £2.5m. Arbuthnot retains 399,538 shares in Secure Trust.
Adnams (ADB) director Guy Heald has acquired 3,000 B shares from Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge at £92.86 each. His B shares stake has increased to 17.15%.
S-Ventures (SVEN) has appointed VSA Capital as corporate adviser.
Block Commodities has been withdrawn from Aquis after a six-month trading suspension.
AIM
Frontier IP (FIPP) investee company Exscientia has joined the Nasdaq Global Select Market after a $304.7m offer at $22 per ADS, which values the pharmatech company at $2.6bn. The ADSs ended at $27.10 each on the first day of trading on 1 October. The closing price values the Frontier IP stake at £31.3m. Oxford-based Exscientia is a spin-out from the University of Dundee and uses artificial intelligence to help drug discovery.
Broker Peel Hunt (PEEL) has returned to AIM two decades after its original flotation, which ended with a takeover by Belgian bank KBC. A placing at 228p a share raised £40m for the company and valued it at £280m. Existing shareholders also raised £72m The share price ended the week at 231.3p. In the year to March 2021, Peel Hunt Ltd revenues more than doubled from £95.5m to £196.9m, while pre-tax profit jumped from £34.2m to £120.1m. That reflects another bumper trading period. Because of the reorganisation of the group, the illustrative, adjusted pre-tax profit is £73.6m, up from £19.4m. Revenues for the five months to August 2021 fell from £82.5m to £63.3m.
GreenRoc Mining (GROC) has acquired the Greenland mining assets of Alba Mineral Resources (ALBA) in return for shares equivalent to 54% of the newly floated company. The Amitsoq graphite project has graphite suitable for using in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries and the Thule Black Sands project in north west Greenland appears to be a continuation of the Dundas mineral sands project being developed by AIM-quoted Bluejay Mining (JAY). GreenRoc raised £4.25m after expenses at 10p a share. The share price has slipped back to 9.35p.
Made Tech Group (MTEC) is a rapidly growing provider of digital transformation services to the UK public sector, including healthcare and defence. It raised £15m at 122p a share when it joined AIM at the end of September. Over the past three years annual revenues have grown at a compound rate of 89% and this growth has been financed without seeking shareholder investment. In the year to May 2021, revenues were £13.3m.
Delivered ready meals company Parsley Box (MEAL) has been hit by supply problems. The available stock is 50% of planned levels, due to staffing and logistics problems at food producers, and Parsley Box has built up its cost base in anticipation of growth. It is set to continue to make losses until the supply problems ease, even though marketing spend will be cut.
Antimicrobial technology developer Byotrol (BYOT) has sold the American rights to the Byotrol24 surface spray to its Americas licensee Integrated Resources Inc for $1.4m (£1m). Byotrol retains the rights outside of the Americas.
Northbridge Industrial Services (NBI) is growing the core loadbanks manufacturer Crestchic and the disposal of the Tasman oil and gas tools business, assuming it happens, will end the associated loss and pay off debt. Group revenues were 22% higher at £19.6m, while operating profit quadrupled to £1.6m. Net debt has fallen from £6.8m to £4.5m. A pre-tax profit of £2.83m is forecast for 2021. The construction of a new Crestchic factory has commenced.
Acquisitions and strong organic growth enabled pharma services software supplier Instem (INS) to increase interim revenues by 41% to £19.8m. Demand for the company’s software is being driven by increased life sciences investment. Instem is on course to increase full year pre-tax profit from £4m to £5.2m.
Cyber security firm Osirium Technologies (OSI) signed up 31 new customers in the first half. It was particularly successful in winning NHS Trusts. Average contract values were lower, but sales bookings were 19% higher. Interim revenues increase by 5% to £740,000, while deferred income was 17% ahead. Partners are being signed up to help with international growth. Full year revenues are expected to be 12% higher at £1.6m, but Osirium will continue to lose money due to continued investment.
Digital TV software technology developer Mirada (MIRA) has changed its strategy and employing resellers. The local presence should enable Mirada to build up its international revenues. Covid-19 hampered deployments and slowed investment decisions. Interim revenues declined by 15% to $11.1m. This is despite the growth in deployments of Mirada’s android TV technology for izzi Telecom, which is the company’s largest customer.
1Spatial (SPA) continues to win new contracts and annualised recurring revenues have increased by 12%. The latest contract for a UK government department is worth £8m.
Data erasure and mobile diagnostics services provider Blancco Technology (BLTG) reported operating 2020-21 profit slightly ahead of expectations. Investec is maintaining its 2021-22 pre-tax profit forecast of £5.4m, up from £5m.
Polymers developer Itaconix (ITX) is still loss making, but interim revenues improved 26% to $1.37m. It has a pipeline of potential deals that could generate revenues that are many times higher than that.
MAIN MARKET
S and U (SUS) reported better than expected interims. Revenues were flat at £42.8m, but the core car finance business is recovering. The loan loss provision was cut from £21.4m to £4.9m. Car finance receivables were slightly higher at the end of the six-month period at £248.8m, even though credit criteria has been toughened. Pre-tax profit more than trebled to £19.9m. This includes an improvement in the profit of the Aspen bridging loan business from £100,000 to £1.5m. The interim dividend is 50% higher at 33p a share. Edison has upgraded the 2021-22 S and U pre-tax profit forecast to £38.7m.
Anglo African Agriculture (AAAP) says that the proposed reverse takeover of Kenya-based Comarco. The loan to the company plus interest, totalling $1.5m, should be repaid by the end of October. The original loan was made in November 2018 and is secured on a company with 4.74 acres of land at Mombassa.
Aircraft lessor Avation (AVAP) reported a $70.1m loss for the year to June 2021 and it is expected to make a much smaller loss this year. Avation has a fleet of 44 aircraft. The company’s cash pile should build up when underutilised aircraft are sold.
Bay Capital (BAY) is a newly floated shell set up by two highly experienced small company directors, Peter Tom and David Williams. It raised £4m at 10p a share and has pro forma cash of £6.64m, which is equivalent to 9.5p a share. The share price ended the week at 18.4p. Acceler8 Investments (AC8) is another recently floated shell where David Williams is a director.
Roquefort Investments (ROQ) is paying £1m in cash and shares for Lyramid, which has a worldwide licence to commercialise patents related to Midkine-based therapies for cancer, kidney disease, autoimmune disorders and Covid-19. Roquefort plans to raise up to £3m. Trading in the shares has been suspended until a reverse takeover prospectus has been published.
Hygiene and protection technologies developer HeiQ (HEIQ) published lower interim revenues because the comparative figures were boosted by Covid-19 demand. Full year revenues are likely to be flat at around $50m, while pre-tax profit would decline from $7m to $3.7m due to a lower gross margin and higher overheads.
Andrew Hore
Andrew Hore – Quoted Micro 19 July 2021
AQUIS STOCK EXCHANGE
Good Energy (LON: GOOD) has rejected the bid from rival renewable energy supplier Ecotricity. It believes that the indicative offer of 340p a share in cash is too low even though it is a premium to the previous market price. Management believes that it has a clear strategy for the company. The focus is energy as a service and mobility as a service, particularly through Zap Map. A new tariff, called Green Driver, has been launched offering a choice of off-peak electric vehicle charging periods. The potential bid values Good Energy at nearly £57m. However, Ecotricity already owns 25.06% of Good Energy.
Voyager Life (VOY) has secured a preferred supply deal for its CBD and hemp oil products with independent pharmacy group Inphaserve, which supplies more than 30 independent pharmacies in England and Scotland.
Rogue Baron (SHNJ) reports another record month for its Bin 1301 bar. Sales were $95,000 in June, which is one-third higher than any pre-Covid month.
SulNOx Group (SNOX) has raised £2.59m at 30p a share. The cash will be used to build up the sales capability and finance the hiring of additional management and staff. There will also be further investment in R&D. There are 58 ongoing trials for its emission reduction product.
Hydro Hotel Eastbourne (HYDP) generated interim revenues of £186,000, but it lost £383,000. The hotel has been trading for a limited time in the six months to April 2021. Refurbishment of bathrooms was undertaken during the period. The hotel will fully re-open on 19 July.
Tectonic Gold (TTAU) has reached an agreement with White Prospecting to set up a joint venture to mine gold at the Mount Cassidy project. Tectonic will get a 7.5% gross production royalty. This deal will enable Tectonic to concentrate on Specimen Hill.
BWA Group (BWAP) reports positive sampling results at the 90%-owned Dehane rutile sands project. It is still early days, but the elevated levels of rare earths is a good sign.
Evrima (EVA) had £164,000 in the bank at the end of 2020, while the NAV was £461,000.
Chapel Down Group (CDGP) raised £6.88m at 59.5p a share, which includes £5.45m raised via crowdfunding. NQ Minerals (NQMI) has raised £35,000 at 7p a share. All Star Minerals (ASMO) has raised £257,000 at 0.02p a share and converted £54,000 of liabilities into shares. Ananda Developments (ANA) has raised £350,000 from an issue of convertible loan notes, with a conversion price of 1p a share, and a further £200,000 is committed by investors.
AIM
Building materials sector consolidator SigmaRoc (LSRC) acquiring Finland-based limestone supplier Nordkalk acquired for £402m, including debt. SigmaRoc has raised £260m in a placing at 85p a share, while a retail offer raised £1.6m. A new bank facility will help to fund the deal and £43m of shares will be issued to Rettig Group.
Energy efficiency as a service provider eEnergy Group (EAAS) has trebled full year estimated revenues to £13.5m. Organic growth was 75% and there was a small pre-tax profit. The smart metering service has been rebranded as MyZeRO and the first combined LightAsAService and smart metering contract has been won. Short-term profit growth is being sacrificed for longer-term growth.
Solid State (SOLI) marginally beat previously upgraded expectations for its figures for the year to March 2021. Revenues dipped slightly to £66.3m, but underlying pre-tax profit was 15% ahead at £5.4m following a reduction in overheads. The total dividend was 16p a share. Computing and communications products did well, but there was a decline in power products revenues. Acquisitions made a small contribution.
Glantus (GLAN) has made its first acquisition since joining AIM, but the software company still remains at a discount to its placing price. The $9.3m acquisition of Technology Insight Corporation led to an earnings up grade for 2022 from 6.4 cents a share to 7.1 cents a share.
Iodine producer Iofina (IOF) says iodine prices are back to pre-pandemic levels at $35-$37/kg. First half production is in line with guidance at 249.4Mt.
Kromek (KMK) had a better second half of the year to April 2021. Manufacturing had been closed in the first half and revenues improved. Full year revenues still fell from £13.1m to £10.4m. There is already 75% visibility over this year’s forecast revenues of £15m. Biodetection equipment for Covid-19 and other airborne viruses will provide a new market for the company. The medical imaging market is recovering.
ULS Technology (ULS) continues to invest in its DigitalMove platform, and it has net cash of £24m to complete its development. More services will be offered on the platform. Conveyancing completions fell last year and revenues declined 18% to £16.9m.
Zoo Digital (ZOO) moved into profit in the year to March 2021. A pre-tax profit of $900,000 was made on revenues of $39.5m with further improvements in profit expected in the next two years. Demand is increasing from subtitling and dubbing services for TV and film back catalogues and Zoo is also adding additional services. Zoo is extending its geographic reach in line with demand from customers.
Chains and transmissions manufacturer Renold (RNO) reported a 13% dip in revenues last year, but underlying pre-tax profit improved by one-fifth to £5.9m – that was due to £2.4m of restructuring costs the year before. Net debt was reduced to £18.4m. The cost base has been cut and efficiency improved through capital investment in facilities. In July, a £11m military contract was won by the torque transmission business.
Personal protection and insurance products provider CPP Group (CPP) says that trading in India has recovered in the past few weeks, but there had been a sharp reduction activity in April and May. The back books continue to generate revenues, although they are declining. Overall trading is in line with expectations.
MAIN MARKET
Standard list shell Hawkwing (HNG) has agreed to acquire ecommerce aggregator Internet Fusion Group, which owns nine speciality retail businesses. It has developed the Reactor platform which brings together retail businesses and brands. Trading in the shares has been suspended.
LED lighting and wiring accessories supplier Luceco (LUCE) has continued to improve its performance in the first half. Interim revenues are expected to be £108m and underlying operating profit of £19m. The second half will be even stronger. Luceco expects full year revenues to be at least one-quarter higher at £220m and underlying operating profit 30% ahead at £39m.
Maternity wear retailer Seraphine Group (BUMP) raised £61m at 295p when it joined the premium list last Friday. The cash will be used to pay off loans and finance growth. The share price started conditional dealings earlier in the week at 305p and subsequently fell back, opening at 280.05p when dealings were unconditional. The share price ended the day at 279.4p
HeiQ (HEIQ) has signed a collaboration agreement with LYCRA and the first product should be launched by the autumn. This will combine freshness and antiviral benefits with LYCRA stretch fabrics.
Nuformix (NFX) expects to develop a phase 1-ready formulation of its NXP002 inhaled treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in the next 18 months. This could be a time to seek a partner.
Andrew Hore