Equities in London are flat with traders preparing for the long weekend. Click here for The Trader Nicole Elliott's latest views on the markets.
IC TIP UPDATES:
Defence contractor Ultra Electronics (ULE) has agreed a deal to sell its card printing ID business to private equity firm LDC for an initial fee of £22m. Management confirmed that the proceeds will be used to strengthen the balance sheet and further invest in its core areas of expertise. Buy.
Adjusted sales and profits inched upward at Hull and East Yorkshire telecoms group KCom (KCOM) in the year to 31 March. The successful implementation of a landmark contract with HMRC helped the group win similar work with ATOC - the association of British train operators - as well as private healthcare group BUPA and UK law firm Shoosmiths. Buy.
KEY STORIES:
Bodycote (BOY) reported a 9 per cent drop in constant-currency revenues in the first four months of the year, as it came up against strong comparatives and challenging trading conditions in the oil and gas sector. However, business is expected to pick up later on in the year, prompting management to maintain its guidance.
OTHER COMPANY NEWS:
Goals Soccer Centres (GOAL) has announced the appointment of Mark Jones as its new chief executive, he joins from Rank Group, where he was managing director of Grosvenor Casinos.
