LONDON: TP ICAP Group, a leading global provider of financial market infrastructure, has announced the acquisition of Neptune Networks, an independent financial data company jointly owned by a consortium of some of the world’s top investment banks. Neptune provides buyers with high-quality, real-time pre-trade bond market data from multiple sell-side banks to buy-side clients. By integrating…
Marks & Spencer reports strong growth amid cyber incident challenges
LONDON: Marks & Spencer Group plc (M&S) announced robust financial performance for the 2024/25 fiscal year, with group revenue rising 6% to £13.8 billion and profit before tax reaching £875.5 million, a 22.2% increase. However, the retailer faces significant disruption from a recent cyberattack, which it estimates will impact profits by approximately £300 million in the coming…
Harwood Private Equity in advanced talks over possible Frenkel Topping acquisition
LONDON: Frenkel Topping Group plc, a financial services firm specializing in asset management and investment advice, confirmed Monday that its independent directors are engaged in advanced discussions with Harwood regarding a potential cash acquisition offer. The Possible Offer would be made by Harwood through a newly formed, privately held special purpose vehicle, Bidco, and would encompass Frenkel Topping’s…
Pakistan moves forward with trade liberalization
KARACHI: Pakistan is moving ahead with significant trade liberalization measures, including the phased elimination of Additional Customs Duty (ACD), as part of its commitment under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program. While the reforms are expected to enhance competitiveness and lower import costs, concerns persist over the potential fiscal impact on government revenues and domestic industries. The…
Rosebank Industries in talks to acquire Electrical Components International
LONDON: Rosebank Industries PLC said Monday it has resumed discussions with Cerberus Capital Management LP about a potential acquisition of Electrical Components International Inc. for less than $1.9 billion. ECI, a U.S.-based manufacturer of electrical distribution systems, serves a range of industrial markets. The deal, if finalized, would align with Rosebank’s acquisition strategy and be funded through…
Soul Patts, Brickworks to merge in $14 billion deal
SYDNEY: Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited and Brickworks Limited have announced a transformative merger, bringing together two of Australia’s most prominent investment and industrial groups in a deal valued at $14 billion. The boards of both companies unanimously approved the merger, which will eliminate cross-shareholding complexities and create a newly capitalized ASX-listed entity,…
Cash Converters secures £12 million funding from Lloyds Bank, acquires 10 UK franchise stores
SYDNEY: Cash Converters International Limited, a global consumer lender and second-hand goods retailer, announced Tuesday it has finalized a £12 million ($15.7 million) growth funding facility with Lloyds Bank. The company also reached an agreement to acquire 10 franchise stores in the U.K., advancing its strategy to expand its corporate-owned network. The new financing will…
AccelerComm secures $15 million funding to boost 5G satellite technology
SOUTHAMPTON: AccelerComm, a leader in high-performance 5G technology for satellite networks, has closed a $15 million funding round to advance its direct-to-device (D2D) communications solutions. The investment, led by IP Group plc (LSE: IPO), will support the development and deployment of AccelerComm’s 5G satellite communications products, enabling seamless connectivity between mobile devices and space-based networks….
Indivior Plc to delist from London Stock Exchange, citing U.S. focus and cost savings
RICHMOND: Indivior PLC (Nasdaq/LSE: INDV) announced Tuesday its plans to cancel its secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange, consolidating its primary listing on Nasdaq as the company shifts focus to its U.S. operations. The pharmaceutical firm, known for its addiction treatment SUBLOCADE, said the move reflects its revenue concentration in the U.S., where over…
Anglo American completes demerger of Valterra Platinum
LONDON: Anglo American plc has completed the demerger of c.51% of the Company’s interest in the platinum group metals business, Valterra Platinum Limited (formerly named Anglo American Platinum Limited) and the associated share consolidation of Anglo American. This follows overwhelming approval by shareholders on Wednesday, 30 April 2025. The demerger took effect on Saturday, 31…
Mirriad Advertising finalizes joint venture agreement with U.S. tech firm
LONDON: Mirriad Advertising plc (AIM: MIRI), a virtual in-content advertising and product placement company, has signed binding agreements with a U.S. technology firm to advance its presence in the American market, the company announced Monday. Under the deal, the U.S. partner will acquire exclusive rights to market Mirriad’s virtual product placement (VPP) technology to existing…
Jadestone Energy appoints Thomas Mitchell Little as Chief Executive Officer
LONDON: Jadestone Energy plc (AIM:JSE), an independent upstream production and development company focused on the Asia-Pacific region, announces the appointment of Thomas Mitchell (Mitch) Little as Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) effective 1 June 2025. Mr. Little has relocated to Jadestone’s head office in Singapore. Mr. Little will be responsible for the delivery of Jadestone’s existing…