Three things you need to know as the UK financial markets open, from Tony Cross.
#1. Clarkson profits slip but dividends up
Integrated shipping services provider Clarkson LON:CKN has this morning published interim results for the six months to 30th June, Underlying pre-tax profits are down by around 3% but the forward order book is seen as being strong and management are confident that full year expectations can be met. The interim dividend is being increased by 2p to 32p per share.
#2. UK Oil & Gas fundraise to advance hydrogen storage project
After its stellar run higher last week, UK Oil & Gas LON:UKOG has undertaken a discounted fundraise to provide capital for that hydrogen storage system. £1m has been raised, although this will be just a fraction of what is needed for the project to complete. Funds were raised at a 37% discount to Friday’s closing price.
#3. hVIVO quits Dublin to focus on London listing
An interesting note from Ireland-based hVIVO [LON:HVO], a company which conducts human clinical trials. The business has this morning announced it will delist from Euronext and instead just focus on its AIM-market listing. The co-founder and chairman was interviewed back in May, stating he was committed to maintaining the Dublin listing but having sold his remaining stake in the firm just two weeks ago, we now have this news.
The move is seen as reducing cost, complexity and the administrative duplication that comes with two trading regimes, although will likely be seen as a win by the London market as it tries to resurrect its fortunes.
