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Bodycote has received competing takeover proposals from two private-equity groups. CVC and Veritas Capital have submitted near-identical cash terms, with the board indicating it could recommend either proposal if firm offers follow.
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UK regulators have simplified rules governing research during public flotations. The FCA says the changes will reduce execution risk and compliance costs while making London’s listing process more competitive.
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International Personal Finance’s takeover has completed after court approval today. Shareholders will receive 250p per share, while the specialist lender’s London listing is due to be cancelled.
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Volution has acquired German ventilation specialist getAir for €40m cash. The transaction adds a profitable heat-recovery portfolio and strengthens the group’s position in energy-efficient European residential buildings.
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A tribunal upheld industry bans over deficient pension transfer advice. The financial penalties were reduced, but findings of dishonesty, unsuitable recommendations, and inadequate oversight remained in place.
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Metro Bank posted record profit but investors remained unconvinced today. Lending, income, and margins improved, yet the shares fell sharply as the market demanded evidence that ambitious return targets remain achievable.
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AI-intensive accounting practices report markedly higher margins and savings nationally. Xero’s research links daily adoption with documented processes, advisory work, specialist hiring, and changes to pricing.
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HSBC’s first-half profit rose as buybacks returned after restructuring costs. Wealth income, transaction banking, and interest earnings lifted performance, although capital levels fell after the Hang Seng Bank privatisation.
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BP’s quarterly profit doubled as Meg O’Neill tightened strategic priorities. The group is accelerating disposals, reducing liabilities, and applying stricter return tests to investment decisions.
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Prologis has agreed a landmark takeover of warehouse group Segro. The £14bn transaction would expand its European logistics estate by 47% and give Segro shareholders a stake in a global property platform.