Clarkson [LSE: CKN]
We have slim pickings in terms of corporate news this morning but Clarkson have issued full year results. The company is a world leading in shipbroking, which is the link between ship owners and the companies that charter them. After a period of overcapacity, the market does seem to be improving although the numbers are very much ‘steady as she goes’. Earnings per share came in 11% higher, bang on the consensus forecast whilst the dividend is up 12% – marking 15 years of consecutive dividend growth.
Hikma Pharmaceuticals [LSE: HIK]
The pharmaceuticals company Hikma has published a note this morning as it continues in a battle to get a generic version of a competitor’s drug approved in the US market. It took the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to a dispute resolution panel over a recent finding, but the committee ruled in favour for the FDA. It’s not the end of the road for the project but means more testing costs will be incurred – and more time will pass – as the campaign to get the necessary approvals continues.
Polymetal International [LSE: POLY]
Precious metals mining company Polymetal has released full year results this morning, but investors may well find themselves disappointed with the numbers. Earnings per share fell short of expectations a year ago and that has been repeated again today. Headline income was up notably, but rising costs and the impact of a stronger Russian Rouble – the company does a lot of mining in the country – took their toll. A 5% increase in the dividend is being proposed in a bid to keep shareholders onside as many of the extra costs are seen as being one-off payments.
