Three things you need to know in the financial markets this morning from investment writer, Tony Cross.
JustEatTakeaway
There’s an upbeat trading statement from JustEatTakeaway.com [LON:JET] out this morning, noting that as a result of investment in legacy markets, performance has been better than expected and management is upgrading its previous guidance. Orders for the first half were up by 61% with the company noting that it is gaining market share in the UK. It intends to prioritise share of market over EBITDA.
STV Group
Broadcaster STV Group LON:STVG published a half year trading update today, noting that advertising trends continue to improve with 32% revenue growth compared to the same period in 2020, and 5% up on the 2019 figures. The England-Scotland football game delivered STV’s highest peak-time audience ever, whilst the Euros are expected to keep viewing figures buoyant through July, too. STV studios is also said to be on track to deliver its most successful year yet.
Hays
Recruiter Hays LON:HAS issued a Q4 trading statement, noting predictably solid growth against the same period a year ago. The performance along with good cost control has been sufficient to see the business up full year profit forecasts to £95m, from the £85m predicted just three months ago. Dividend payments are set to resume and the note also highlights that £150m worth of capital will be returned to shareholders in the form of two special dividends, starting with £100m which will be declared in next month’s preliminary results.
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