Three things you need to know in the financial markets today from investment writer, Tony Cross.
#1. Taylor Wimpey growth hopes focus on next year
Taylor Wimpey LON:TW. provided a trading update this morning, noting that private sales rates for the year so far were at 0.73, broadly in line with the 0.75 seen at this point last April. The total order book value is however around 15% smaller and average selling prices appear to be sliding lower, too. Completions are expected to accelerate as the year progresses and the company is confident of a return to growth from 2025.
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#2. Interim profits & dividends surge at ABF
Interims from Associated British Foods LON:ABF note that revenues are up 5% on a constant currency basis but adjusted operating profits have surged by 46%, with management highlighting normalisation in markets and supply chain improvements. Retail (Primark) is outperforming the wider business and further growth is expected here as the year progresses thanks to store expansion plans and well-received product ranges. The interim dividend is being hiked by 46%.
#3. Do Q1 numbers show a corner has been turned at THG?
There’s a Q1 update out from THG LON:THG noting a 4,5% uptick in revenues on a constant currency basis, up from the 1.1% seen in Q4 FY’23. The strategic focus on higher margin sales is being seen as a key driver here, whilst the beauty division also fared well, again with a refocus on markets being attributed.
Active customer numbers are growing and proprietary brand Myprotein continues to be the fastest growing sports nutrition brand across UK retailers. After yesterday’s bounce for the share price however, is there anything left in the tank?
