JP Morgan analysts see AstraZeneca PLC (LSE:AZN) in a strong position to dominate the market for a new breast cancer treatment if upcoming clinical trial results are positive.
Its drug candidate, camizestrant, or "cami", is undergoing testing in a pivotal phase III trial, named SERENA-6, aimed at treating advanced breast cancer.
Dividend growth among the core of UK-listed stocks remains robust despite external pressures such as sluggish economic growth and reduced payouts from commodity sectors, says Shore Capital.
Even with lowered profit expectations due to the oil companies, listed companies are still on track for record pre-tax profits of £237 billion for 2024 with further growth projected in 2025, said the broker.
After its recent solid third-quarter update, UBS asks if it is finally time for the Mexican gold and silver miner Fresnillo PLC (LSE:FRES) to shine after 10 years of underperformance.
Alas, the bank's answer to its own question still seems to be no, even with gold and silver prices at record highs.
Greencoat UK Wind PLC's (LSE:UKW) third-quarter NAV was a little better than expectations, said broker Jefferies.
A lack of any net impact from power prices suggests some strength throughout the back end of the assumptions given the lower forward curve during the quarter.
Citi has downgraded SSE PLC (LSE:SSE) to a 'sell' rating, cautioning investors about potential setbacks in the energy firm’s growth strategy.
Despite SSE’s strong portfolio in renewables and energy networks, the investment bank expressed concerns over delays in deploying offshore wind projects, which could impact the company’s earnings per share and overall returns.
NatWest Group PLC (LSE:NWG) shares rose 4.5% in early trading after the bank raised its annual forecast, reflecting strong performance in the UK banking sector.
The boost follows a 26% increase in third-quarter profit, attributed to expanded lending and stable margins despite lower central bank rates. NatWest reported a pretax profit of £1.7 billion for July-September, surpassing both last year’s £1.3 billion and analyst expectations of £1.5 billion.