Three things you need to know in the financial markets today from investment writer, Tony Cross.
#1. Berkeley Homes interims robust, guidance extended to FY26
Berkeley Homes LON:BKG has this morning announced interim results for the six months to 31st March, showing what management deem to have been a robust performance against challenging market conditions. Guidance has been extended out to April 2026, targeting the delivery of a further £1.5bn of pre-tax profits whilst maintaining net cash above £400m. Margins have been maintained, whilst shareholder returns have taken only a marginal dip which is notable given the housing market headwinds.
- UK Stock Market News: Berkeley, Pipehawk, Target Healthcare REIT
- Companies Reporting: Berkeley, Persimmon, Halma, L&G
- UK Stock Market News: Mitie, THG, Associated British Foods
#2. Associated British Foods AGM statement has nothing to add
Associated British Foods LON:ABF have issued a pre-AGM statement this morning which is notable for its brevity. It contains the line that no new information on current trading will be given during today’s meeting.
#3. Lexington Gold drilling in South Africa underway
AIM listed Lexington Gold LON:LEX has provided an update, noting that drilling at the Bothaville project in South Africa is now underway. The campaign is aimed at confirming and expanding the area of gold mineralisation intersected in historic third party drilling and is expected to take between two and three months to complete, owing to a shut down over Christmas.
