Welcome to today’s Five at Five – the EOB snapshot of the five most impactful market stories shaping investor sentiment.
1. UK GDP edges up but remains stodgy ahead of Budget
– The economy eked out marginal growth, reinforcing expectations that fiscal stimulus will be key in the upcoming Budget. Read more…
2. Whitbread hit by profit-taking despite profits falling less than expected
– Shares dipped after investors locked in gains following a solid trading update, though the results showed resilience. Read more…
3. Croda maintains course despite extra regional volatility from US tariffs
– The chemical player's shares jumped 7% as guidance was held amidst diversified exposure as a buffer to trade tensions. Read more…
4. FTSE 100 live: London stocks wallow after tepid UK GDP, Whitbread and insurers drag
– The market struggled through the session, weighed down by defensives and lack-lustre growth data. Read more …
5. Is AI taking your job?
Look away now if you work in PR, government or journalism – Read more
More small cap news
IXICO PLC (LSE:IXI, OTC:PHYOF) delivered a 13% rise in annual revenue to £6.5 million, driven by new contracts and partnerships. CEO Bram Goorden talks us through it. Watch here
Solvonis Therapeutics PLC (LSE:SVNS) has raised £1.25 million to advance its programmes tackling addiction, psychiatry, and neurology. CEO Anthony Tennysno explains. Watch here
HeLIX Exploration PLC (AIM:HEX, OTCQB:HHEXF) CEO Bo Sears talks about the company’s latest breakthrough at the Rudyard project, where confirmation of hydrogen-prone ultramafic systems could reshape its strategic outlook. Watch here
Allergy Therapeutics PLC (AIM:AGY, OTC:AGYTF) says its peanut allergy vaccine continues to show strong results in early clinical testing. The treatment was well tolerated and reduced allergic reactions, with a Phase IIb trial planned for next year.
ANGLE PLC (AIM:AGL, OTCQX:ANPCY) has appointed Peter Collins as interim CEO. The company, soon to be renamed CelLBxHealth, is preparing for a major restructuring and funding round later this year.
Anglo Asian Mining Plc (LSE:AAZ, OTC:AGXKF) reported record quarterly copper production of 2,287 tonnes as new mines ramped up. Gold and silver output also increased, with upgraded guidance for the year ahead.
Iofina PLC (AIM:IOF, OTC:IOFNF) hit a record 215.8 tonnes of iodine production in the third quarter, up 32% year-on-year. The company expects to start building its next plant before the end of 2025.