July 17, 2025

EUROPEAN SNAPSHOT

Biggest Movers (on release)

  • UP: AK AB, ABB, Legrand, Evolution AB, Diploma, Volvo Car, Tele2, Assa Abloy, SSF Group, QinetiQ, Vinci, SSE plc, Renk Group
  • DOWN: Wise, DKSH, Publicis, Essity AB, Nordea Bank, EQT, Volvo, Novartis
  • No surprise from the Eurozone final June inflation release. Inflation is confirmed up to 2% up from 1.9% in May with core HICP inflation confirmed unchanged at 2.3% yoy which was the lowest since January 2022. Energy (fuel) and unprocessed food inflation, non-alcoholic beverages inflation were the main causes for the increase in inflation. Services inflation is confirmed slightly up at 3.3% vs 3.2% but with the increase around the more volatile items such air travel, package holiday and accommodation while we see lower insurance, stable rent and restaurants. Non-energy industrial goods inflation is down to 0.5% from 0.6%. That said The HICP Inflation is up in most countries, down only in Germany (2% vs 2.1%), The Netherlands (2.8% vs 2.9%) and Finland (1.9% vs 2%) core HICP inflation declined only in Germany (2.5% vs 2.7%), Austria, Croatia among the larger countries. Food price inflation requires some scrutiny with notable increase in beef prices, fresh fish, eggs. Tobacco inflation was also abnormally down due to the sharp decline in the Netherlands. As for the preliminary release, this is not a game changer for the ECB, with no rate action expected in July, especially as retaliatory tariffs are still a strong possibility.

    In the UK yields are higher after a higher-than-expected June inflation print yesterday we have a weaker May UK labor market with higher unemployment rate at 4.7% vs 4.6% expected, the highest rate since the 3-months ending July 2021, and lower wage growth especially in construction and financial &business services sectors (with total pay growth is the weakest since September 2020 at 3.4% yoy, down from 3.9% in April. The picture looks less negative on the employment front: The number of employed people jumped by 134k in the three months to May following an +89k in the previous 3 months, beating forecasts of an increase of 46k. The employment rate for those aged 16 to 64 rose by 0.2ppt to 75.2%. The inactivity rate is down -0.4ppt 3m/3m to 21%.

    As mentioned yesterday despite the higher CPI, we still see the BoE cutting rates in August. The Job data confirms this view.

    The focus is on tariffs negotiation and the erosion of the Fed independence under constant attack from the US president. Bond yields surged on talks that Powell could be fired, but recovered only half of the increase, when the imminent firing was denied. The independence of the Institution is in balance and will likely be under significant pressure next year. The FOMC composition inertia limits the changes even if the Chairman is replaced by a more politically driven chair. That said the trend is clear and the principle of the Fed independence is more than under question. The replacement will be key with a lesser blow if Waller is chosen, than if Hassett or Warsh are nominated. In any case it will result in steeper curves.

    The US treasury strategy to fund in the short end ahead of the Fed cuts is exposing the debt funding to higher inflation, still expected to materialize with higher than anticipated tariffs. The US debt already increased by more than $400bn since the increase of the debt ceiling to $41.1tn earlier this month… In 2023 the debt increased by $2tn in just 4 months after the removal of the debt ceiling.

    In Europe Von der Leyen could not force her own “beautiful budget” with commissioner and countries such as Germany opposing the budget. There are no short-term impact but a big setback for the president of the EU commission

    On the companies’ front: ABB Ltd reported strong order growth (+14%) in Q2 driven by a large Automation ($600m) order and continued strength in Electrification orders (+9%). In the robotics-related segments, ABB saw delays in investment decisions by customers due to tariff-related uncertainty. Legrand pre-released strong H1 sales largely fueled by continued strong growth in datacenter activity. Organic growth in sales was +9.0% for the period, including +10.1% in the second quarter. This was again mostly driven by North America. Live casino developer Evolution reported second-quarter revenue in line with expectations, while EBITDA profit exceeded forecasts. Volvo Car announced plans to start production of its best-selling XC60 model at its Ridgeville plant in South Carolina, beginning at the end of 2026. Tele2 reported second-quarter revenues in line with expectations, while underlying EBITDA driven by cost controls exceeded forecasts by nearly 6%. The company also announced an upward revision of its full-year guidance. Assa Abloy said organic sales growth was strong for Global Technologies and solid for Americas. Entrance Systems posted slight organic growth, while organic sales declined in EMEIA and Asia Pacific. Wise’s shares down sharply after reporting Q1 cross-border volume that grew +24% YoY (+27% YoY on a constant currency basis) slightly below consensus, to £41.2bn, and Wise customer holdings grew by 31% to £22.9bn. DKSH missed expectations notably in the Consumer Goods segment (which declined 0.5% vs. the expected growth of 0.5%) and the Performance Materials segment (0.8% growth vs. 4% expected). Healthcare performed best but still came in slightly below expectations (3.7% actual vs. 4.0% expected). Publicis beat and raised but CEO comments damped stock performance. CEO Arthur Sadoun warned that H2 could face softer client spending, especially for large transformation projects via Sapient. Essity’s Q2 adjusted EBITA came in 5% below expectations due to lower volumes, particularly in the institutional incontinence market and the U.S. professional hygiene segment. More details on equities here

    Constant attack on Powell but clear erosion of the Fed independence ahead

    MACRO:

    US DEBT INCREASED BY ~$400bn

    The US public Debt outstanding has already increased by more than $400bn since the lifting of the debt ceiling from $36.1tn to $41.1tn.

    The debt increased to $36,651.6bn as of July 15according to the Latest US treasury Daily Report

  • In 2023 Debt rose $2,000bn from ~$31.4tn to $33.4tn in Just 4 months post debt Ceiling removal.
  • It took ~9 months to see a $2,000bn debt increase in 2022 and the new debt ceiling (increased by $2.5tn end 2021) took 10 months to be reached.
  • EUROZONE INFLATION (June Final)

    The Eurozone inflation (HICP) is confirmed at 2% in June (0.3% m/m), up from 1.9% in May, with just minor revisions for energy, revised up to -2.6% yoy from -2.7% yoy initially (0.2% m/m vs 0.1%), up from -3.6% yoy in May, and processed food (including alcohol & tobacco), revised down to 2.6% from 2.7%, up 0.1% m/m vs 0.2%m/m initially, easing from 2.9% yoy in May.

    The core inflation is confirmed to be unchanged at 2.3% yoy (0.4% m/m) and services inflation confirmed at 3.3% yoy up from 3.2%yoy in May, up 0.7% m/m. Non-energy industrial goods inflation is down to 0.5% from 0.6% as reported with preliminary estimates.

    Food inflation (including tobacco & alcohol) is confirmed at 3.1% yoy (down from 3.2%), unprocessed food confirmed t +4.6% yoy (up from 4.3% yoy in May) and processed food inflation (including tobacco & alcohol) is down to 2.7% from 2.9% in May as mentioned above. Non- alcoholic beverages inflation increased to 8.6% yoy from 8.2% in May (0.6% m/m) as we saw in most countries’ CPI releases (up in Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal) with Higher coffee prices inflation (20.3% vs 19.1%) and cocoa-based drinks inflation (17.2% vs 16.05%)

    The HICP Inflation is up in most countries, down only in Germany (2% vs 2.1%), The Netherlands (2.8% vs 2.9%) and Finland (1.9% vs 2%). It increased the most in Spain (2.3% vs 2%), France (0.9% vs 0.6%), Portugal (2.1% vs 1.7%) an Estonia (5.25% vs 4.6%).

    Core inflation increased in France, Italy, The Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Portugal, Latvia and Estonia, but was unchanged in Spain, Finland, Ireland, Lithuania, Slovakia and Slovenia. Core HICP inflation declined only in Germany (2.5% vs 2.7%), Austria, Croatia among the larger countries.

    HICP

    Core HICP

    Energy

    At the eurozone level the increase in energy inflation (-2.6% yoy vs -3.6% yoy in May) is driven by higher liquid fuel inflation (-9.7% vs -12.2% yoy) with diesel at -5.3% yoy vs -8.3% and gasoline at -6.2% vs -9.9%). Electricity (-0.3%yoy vs +0.6% yoy in May) and gas inflation (+1.9%vs +3.2%) eased in June. Administered energy prices declined -4.7% yoy down from -4% yoy in May. Solid fuel inflation is up to -3%yoy from -3.3% yoy.

    Energy inflation increased in most countries in June, down only in Italy, Belgium , Portugal, Finland and Estonia.

    Food

    Food inflation is down to 2.3% from 2.4%, but we see higher unprocessed food price inflation to 4.6% from 4.3% (up in most countries) with prices down -0.15% m/m (-0.4% m/m in 2024). Fresh Vegetable inflation is down to -0.9% from +0.35% (-3.3% m/m) but fresh fruit inflation is higher at 7.5% from 6.8%. Inflation increased for meat (3.7% vs 3.3%), fresh Fish (2.8% vs 2.1%), eggs (6.2% vs 5.7%) and cheese (3.6% vs 3.5%). Inflation is down for milk (5.5% vs 5.6%) and oil & fats (9.1% vs -8.2%). As noted with the domestic CPI data, Beef & Veal price inflation surged to 9.8% vs 8.8% (Highest since March 2023) increasing in all countries but Germany (9.5% vs 9.6%) and Croatia (21.8% yoy vs 23.4% yoy) with double digit increase in all countries but France (4.9% yoy vs 3.9% yoy in May) and Italy (5.9% yoy vs 5.4% in May).

    Beverages

    Alcoholic beverages inflation is slightly lower at 0.9% yoy from 1.1%, but we see another increase in non-alcoholic beverages inflation to 8.6% vs 8.2% on higher coffee prices (20.3% vs 19.1%) and cocoa based drinks (17.2% vs 16.05%), but also soft drinks (4.2% vs 3.9%) and Juice (7.1% vs 7%). Mineral waters and teas inflation is down.

    We also note tobacco inflation is down to 5.9% from 6.9% mainly due to a sharp decline in the Netherlands (past anniversary of main passthrough of 2024 excise duty) where tobacco inflation declined to 8.6% yoy in June from 31.2% in May.

    Goods

    Non-energy industrial goods inflation is down to 0.5% from 0.6%, up for durable goods (0.2% vs 0.1%), down for semi-durable goods (0% vs 0.4%) for non-durable (1.6% vs 1.7%). Inflation increased of clothing, footwear, furniture, appliances, but down for household textiles, medical products and new cars (1.7% vs 1.8% yoy). Inflation increased for used cars at 2.1% yoy from 1.8% with increase in Germany and Austria.

    Services

    Services Inflation increased slightly to 3.3% from 3.2% up 0.7% m/m. Services inflation increased in France, Italy, The Netherlands (3.85% vs 2.8%), Belgium, Greece, Portugal, Estonia (11.7% vs 9.9%) and Slovakia. It fell significantly for Germany (3.5% vs 3.8%) and decline slightly for Spain, Austria, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia.

    Inflation increased for air transport, package holiday, accommodation, recreational services and hospital services. Inflation declined for social protection (5.5% vs 5.7%), auto insurance (8.65% vs 9.5%), and was stable for restaurant (3.9%), cultural services (3.3%), education (3.9%) and rent (2.95%)…

    UK LABOR MARKET

    The UK Labor market continued to cool in May, with the unemployment rate up to 4.7% from 4.6%, above expectations of 4.6% and the highest rate since the 3-months ending July 2021. Wage growth slowed down (see details below) but on the other hand, employment increased more than expected. The number of employed people jumped by 134k in the three months to May following an +89k in the previous 3 months, beating forecasts of an increase of 46k. The employment rate for those aged 16 to 64 rose by 0.2ppt to 75.2%. The inactivity rate is down -0.4ppt 3m/3m to 21%. The estimated number of vacancies in the UK fell by 56k on the quarter, to 727k in April to June 2025. ONS Release

    Wages

    Weekly earnings’ growth slowed, to 5% yoy for the whole economy total pay (to £722/ week) in the 3 months ending in May, down from 5.4% yoy in April (revised up from 5.3% yoy), in line with expectations. Regular Pay (ex-bonus) is also down to 5% from 5.4% in April (revised up from 5.2%) the lowest growth rate in almost 3 years (June 2022)

    Public sector wage growth held better with total pay up 5.3% yoy down from 5.5% and regular pay growth at 5.5% down from 5.6% in April (no revision).

    The private sector wage growth is down to 4.9% yoy for both total Pay and regular pay down respectively from 5.3% in April (unrevised) and 5.2% in April (revised up from 5.1%). It is the slowest annual growth for private sector total pay since November 2021 (since January 2022 for regular pay).

    Within the private sector, manufacturing saw higher growth for total pay in May, up 4.5% yoy 3m/3m improving from 3.3% in April (big revision from 5.1% though). Manufacturing regular pay posts slower growth to 4.8% yoy from 5.2% in april (revised up from 5.1%).

    Construction wage growth slowed to 6.5% total pay and 4.9% regular pay down from 7.6% and 5.8% respectively.

    In services wage growth is down to 4.9% from 5.2% (revised from 5.1%) for total pay and to5% frp, 5.2% (unrevised) for Regular pay. Pay growth remains stronger for distribution hotels & restaurants (6.8% vs 7.7% for total pay and 7.1% vs 7.8% for regular pay) than for finance & business services for which total pay growth is the weakest since September 2020 at 3.4% yoy, down from 3.9% in April (revised from 3.8%) and regular pay increase by only 3.1% (below inflation), weakests since August 2020, down from 3.3% in April (revised from 3.2%).

    Within the private sector, manufacturing saw higher growth for total pay in May, up 4.5% yoy 3m/3m improving from 3.3% in April (big revision from 5.1% though). Manufcturing regular pay posts slower growth to 4.8% yoy from 5.2% in april (revised up from 5.1%).

    Construction wage growth slowed to 6.5% total pay and 4.9% regular pay down from 7.6% and 5.8% respectivel

    In services wage growth is down to 4.9% from 5.2% (revised from 5.1%) for total pay and to5% frp, 5.2% (unrevised) for Regular pay. Pay growth remains strober for distribution hotels & restaurants (6.8% vs 7.7% for total pay and 7.1% vs 7.8% for regular pay) than for finance & business services for which total pay growth is the weakest since September 2020 at 3.4% yoy, down from 3.9% in April (revised from 3.8%) and regular pay increase by only 3.1% (below inflation), weakests since August 2020, down from 3.3% in April (revised from 3.2%).

    EARNINGS / RELEASES

    Thursday, July 17, 2025

    AAK

    AAK AB (publ)

    SEK

    264.20

    +9.26%

    AAK AB (publ) release

    AAK

    AAK, a producer of plant-based specialty ingredients, posted higher-than-expected revenue for the second quarter, while its operating profit also surpassed forecasts despite a year-on-year decline.
    Volumes, excluding the impact from the divestment of Hillside, fell by 2 percent to 490,000 tons (Consensus 483000). Net sales rose by 2.4 percent to SEK 11.3 billion (Consensus 10.8).
    Operating profit reached SEK 912 million (consensus 872). The operating margin was 8.1 percent (10.1).

    "
    Operating profit, recalculated at fixed exchange rates, increased by 16 percent in the second quarter. This excludes the effect of the Hillside divestment as well as a restructuring cost of SEK 250 million related to the Fit-to-Win optimization program, which was announced in connection with the first-quarter report," CEO Johan Westman wrote.
    "The Fit-to-Win optimization program, introduced at the Capital Markets Day in November 2024 and launched alongside the first-quarter 2025 report, is progressing according to plan. The program covers the entire organization, focusing on simplification, increased efficiency, and value creation," Westman continued.

    "As previously communicated, Fit-to-Win is expected to result in annual cost savings of around SEK 300 million, with SEK 50
    million already anticipated this year and full effect expected by mid-2026. A small portion of these SEK 50 million was reflected in the second quarter results, with the remainder expected during the rest of the year. The aforementioned restructuring cost of SEK 250 million related to Fit-to-Win was recognized during the quarter," he added.

    Westman concluded by noting that the company remains "
    attentive to the dynamic global trade situation and subdued demand in some of our end markets, as well as the potential consequences this may have during the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. To counter this, we are actively working to drive volume growth through stronger commercial execution and deeper customer engagement."

    ABBN

    Abb Ltd

    CHF

    51.22

    +8.04%

    ABB Ltd release

    ABBN

    ABB Ltd reported strong order growth (+14%) in Q2 driven by a large Automation ($600m) order and continued strengh in Electrification orders (+9%). In the robotics-related segments, ABB saw delays in investment decisions by customers due to tariff-related uncertainty. Orders declined in most customer
    segments outside of consumer electronics. Revenues improved in three out of four business areas and amounted to $8,900 million, up by 8% (6% comparable). This was supported by backlog execution as well as positive developments in the short-cycle and service businesses. Higher volumes was the main driver
    of the revenue growth, with some added support from slightly positive pricing. Operational EBITA increased by 9% year-on-year to $1,708 million, resulting in a 20-basis points margin improvement to 19.2%. This represents improved business performance supported by higher volumes, slightly positive pricing and
    improved efficiency. Outlook: In the third quarter of 2025, ABB anticipates comparable revenue growth to be at least in the mid-single digit range, and the Operational EBITA margin to remain broadly stable year-on-year; however acknowledging the uncertainty for the global business environment.

    LR

    Legrand SA

    EUR

    119.90

    +7.49%

    Legrand release

    LR

    Legrand pre-released strong H1 sales largely fueled by continued strong growth in datacenter activity. Organic growth in sales was +9.0% for the period, including +10.1% in the second quarter. This was again mostly driven by North america (+22% Q2, +20.5% Q1). 2025 full-year sales target revised upward: Taking into account the sales of the first six months of the year and considering the world’s current macroeconomic outlook as well as a gradual normalization of customs policies, Legrand is now targeting full-year 2025 sales growth (organic and through acquisitions, excluding currency effects) of between +10% and +12% (compared to +6% to +10% previously). This includes expected organic growth of +5% to +7% and growth from acquisitions of approximately +5%.

    EVO

    Evolution AB (publ)

    SEK

    823.40

    +7.10%

    Evolution AB (publ) release

    EVO

    Live casino developer Evolution reported second-quarter revenue in line with expectations, while EBITDA profit exceeded forecasts.
    "In summary, we continue to see somewhat modest figures for the second quarter, but they are more in line with the expectations we communicated in the first quarter. We maintain our view that the second half of the year will be stronger and therefore uphold our full-year forecast for an EBITDA margin of 66-68 percent," said CEO Martin Carlesund.
    Revenue rose by 3.1 percent to €524.3 million (consensus €518 million). Revenue growth in comparable currencies is estimated at 8.8 percent. EBITDA came in at €345.3 million (€345.8 million), above the expected €337 million, with an EBITDA margin of 65.9 percent (68.0 percent).
    Operating profit amounted to €306.4 million (€311.1 million). The operating margin was 58.4 percent (61.2 percent).

    DPLM

    DIPLOMA PLC

    GBp

    5245.00

    +6.95%

    DIPLOMA PLC release

    DPLM

    Diploma PLC issues a trading update for the nine months ending 30 June 2025.
    · Strong Q3 performance. Full year upgrade to organic growth of 10% (from 8%).
    o Organic growth YTD of 10%: continuation of positive trends from H1.
    o Reported growth YTD of 12%: +4% from acquisitions, partly offset by FX.
    o Strong operating margin: in line with expectations (FY guidance c.22%).

    VOLCAR B

    Volvo Car AB

    SEK

    18.98

    +6.81%

    Volvo Car AB release

    VOLCAR B

    Volvo Cars has reported a decline in revenue and swung to a loss in the second quarter. The adjusted EBIT margin was slightly better than in Q1.
    Revenue fell by 7.9 percent to SEK 93.5 billion (consensus 87.7). The number of cars sold amounted to 181,600, compared to 205,400 a year earlier. This corresponds to a decrease of 12 percent.
    "Demand continues to be pressured by prevailing macroeconomic conditions, tariff-related uncertainty, and intensified competition. All of this continues to put pressure on volumes and profitability for us, as well as for the entire automotive industry," CEO Håkan Samuelsson began in the report.
    Operating profit was -SEK 10 billion (8.0). EBIT was impacted by an SEK 11.4 billion impairment announced by the company recently, as well as a restructuring cost of SEK 1.4 billion.
    Adjusted operating profit totaled SEK 2.9 billion (8.2) vs consensus of SEK2.3bn, with an adjusted operating margin of 3.1 percent (8.1). This is slightly better compared to Q1.
    Cash flow from operating activities reached SEK 18.0 billion (12.8).

    "
    2025 will continue to be a challenging year for the automotive industry, but our turnaround plan is proceeding exactly as intended. We have already noticed positive effects during the second quarter and are confident that more positive impacts are to come," Samuelsson continued. Also announced plans to start production of its best-selling XC60 model at its Ridgeville plant in South Carolina, beginning at the end of 2026.

    TEL2 A

    Tele2 AB

    SEK

    145.00

    +6.23%

    Tele2 AB release

    TEL2 A

    Tele2 reported second-quarter revenues in line with expectations, while underlying EBITDA driven by cost controls exceeded forecasts by nearly 6%. The company also announced an upward revision of its full-year guidance.
    Revenue for the quarter amounted to SEK 7,256 million (7,258 last year), closely matching the analysts' consensus estimate of SEK 7,295 million. End-customer service revenues rose by 1.9 percent to SEK 5,520 million (5,474).
    Adjusted EBITDA came in at SEK 3,343 million (2,964), beating the expected SEK 3,156 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 46.1 percent (40.8). Underlying EBITDAaL reached SEK 2,932 million (2,586), ahead of the anticipated SEK 2,762 million.
    Operating cash flow amounted to SEK 2,033 million (1,532), and free cash flow was SEK 1,621 million (1,172).
    "
    I am pleased to say that the organization has responded and adapted exceptionally well to the many major changes we have made since December. This strong response has given us a flying start--especially in areas such as cost control, simplification, and resource allocation to what matters most for our customers. Alongside the reduction in our workforce, optimization and automation of processes, and renegotiation of major contracts, these efforts have delivered an impressive underlying EBITDAaL growth of 15 percent in the second quarter," commented CEO Jean Marc Harion.

    Upgrade to the company's full-year outlook.
    "
    The first phase of our transformation has been delivered in record time, and I want to extend a big thank you to my colleagues for all their hard work. The organization's ability to adapt quickly gives us the confidence to raise our underlying EBITDAaL guidance for the full year to just above 10 percent growth (previously mid-to-high single digit).

    ASSA B

    Assa Abloy AB

    SEK

    319.20

    +5.73%

    Assa Abloy AB release

    ASSA B

    Q2 Revenue edged up 0.1 percent to SEK 38,015 million (Consensus 37,721m). Organic sales growth reached 3 percent, up from -1 percent a year ago. Currency effects negatively impacted revenue by 8 percent.

    "Organic sales growth was strong for Global Technologies and solid for Americas. Entrance Systems posted slight organic growth, while organic sales declined in EMEIA and Asia Pacific," the company commented regarding its business segments.
    "We are seeing robust aftermarket growth, driven by strong demand for electromechanical upgrades," said CEO Nico Delvaux.

    Adjusted operating profit amounted to SEK 6,155 million (6,085), ahead of the expected SEK 5,896, with an adjusted operating margin of 16.2 percent (16.0).

    "Although net effects from acquisitions and currency diluted the operating margin by 70 basis points, this was more than offset by an excellent operational leverage effect of 53 percent, supported by positive price/cost developments, savings from our restructuring programs, and ongoing efficiency improvements," Delvaux said.

    SFSN

    SFS Group Ltd

    CHF

    113.60

    +4.60%

    SFS Group Ltd release

    SFSN

    SFS generated sales of CHF 1,539.1 million in the first half of 2025. This corresponds to a year-over-year reduction of –0.4%. Currency effects slowed sales growth down by –2.3%. Organic growth of 1.1% was generated on a like-for-like basis. Our customers are largely taking a wait-and-see approach, postponing investment decisions, avoiding risks and focusing intensely on reducing their operating costs. The fact that the SFS Group achieved solid results in this market environment in the first half of the year is evidence of its good long-term positioning. Profitability was influenced by mix effects, some reductions in capacity utilization and non-recurring effects from changes made to the production and distribution network. All in all, SFS generated operating profit (EBIT) of CHF 162.2 million. The EBIT margin amounts to 10.6% of net sales. Excluding non-recurring effects, the SFS Group achieved an adjusted operating profit (EBIT) of 168.1 million and an adjusted EBIT margin of 11.0%. Program launched to increase profitability: The review of the current network and implementation of targeted adjustments should be completed by the end of 2027. SFS expects the program to reduce sales by a total of around CHF 110 million and for it to result in project-specific non-recurring costs of about CHF 75 million. The program’s successful implementation will enable the SFS Group to increase its profitability and improve its EBIT margin by approximately 0.8 percentage points. Non-recurring costs will be reported separately for the duration of the changes and EBIT will be adjusted.

    A total of around 650 jobs are affected by company sales, transfers and site closures. Olpe (Germany) and Turnov (Czech Republic) are two of the locations that will be impacted by plant closures. Allchemet, a Swiss company that supplies retailers with tools, fastening technology and products of a chemical/technical nature, will be sold until end of the year.

    QQ.

    QINETIQ GROUP PLC

    GBp

    499.60

    +2.97%

    QINETIQ GROUP PLC release

    QQ.

    Q1 trading update. The financial year has started as anticipated, having taken a prudent view on the recovery of short-cycle order flow and beginning the year with good revenue cover of 75%. We are on-track with our cost efficiency program, the benefits of which will come through in the second half. Consistent with our full-year expectations we anticipate c.46-48% of revenue in the first half at c.10% margin and good cashflow. Our expectations for the full year remain unchanged with c.3% organic revenue growth, margin of c.11%, EPS growth in the range of 15-20% and good cash conversion.

    DG

    Vinci SA

    EUR

    124.55

    +1.51%

    Vinci SA release

    DG

    VINCI, the French construction and concessions giant, announced the acquisition of Wärtsilä SAM Electronics GmbH, strengthening VINCI Energies’ position in the defense and marine technology sectors. This marks a notable expansion into high-value, technology-driven markets, broadening VINCI’s industrial footprint and geographic reach, especially in Germany. The acquired firm brings €100 million in annual revenue and 350 skilled employees, signaling VINCI’s continued appetite for growth via targeted acquisitions

    SSE

    SSE PLC

    GBp

    1847.50

    +0.19%

    SSE PLC release

    SSE

    Full-year outlook reaffirmed: SSE maintained its guidance for fiscal 2027, expecting adjusted earnings per share between 175p and 200p, following 160p for 2025.
    Operationally resilient: Networks division continued strong performance, with significant investment ramp-up—network capex rose by nearly 70% year-on-year to £0.5bn, underpinning growth in regulated assets.
    Renewables output dip: Renewable generation slipped 4% versus last year due to exceptionally dry weather in Scotland, sharply impacting hydro output. Offshore and onshore wind were more resilient, but overall renewables faced headwinds.
    Strategic and Regulatory Developments
    Clarity on regulation: UK government’s decision to retain a national electricity pricing system, rather than move to zonal pricing, removes a major overhang; this clarity is seen as investor-friendly.
    Major project progress: SSE confirmed a final investment decision on the €300m Platin power station in Ireland, furthering its pipeline and underlining its transition credentials. The plant is designed for renewables and future hydrogen use.

    R3NK

    RENT GROUP

    EUR

    71.52

    +0.13%

    RENK Group AG release

    R3NK

    Group revenue and adjusted EBIT for Q2 and the first half of 2025 held steady compared to 2024, with both above the company’s historical 15% CAGR target. The Vehicle Mobility Solutions (VMS) segment remains the primary growth engine, contributing the most to order intake, revenue, and EBIT, and delivering margins ahead of last year’s levels due to improved efficiency.

    Net Income: Estimated net income for 2025 reached €136.9 million—a 156% jump year-on-year—reflecting both top-line growth and stronger margins.

    Order Intake: RENK maintained a high level of order intake in Q2, especially in its defense-focused VMS unit, supporting a healthy, elevated book-to-bill ratio. The Marine & Industry segment also performed steadily, with double-digit revenue growth and sustainable margins, though it remains more sensitive to global economic conditions.
    Guidance Reaffirmed: Management reiterated full-year 2025 guidance: revenue above €1.3 billion and adjusted EBIT of €210–235 million, with ample support from a strong order backlog and customer demand.

    NOVN

    Novartis Inc.

    CHF

    93.23

    -1.99%

    Novartis Inc. release

    NOVN

    Q2 Net sales climbed 12% year-over-year to $14.1 billion, outpacing expectations and driven by strong performances in growth drivers like Kisqali (+64%), Kesimpta (+33%), and Entresto (+22%). Core operating income jumped 21% to $5.9 billion, with a margin expanding to 42.2%a 340 basis point improvement year-on-year. Earnings per share reached $2.42, ahead of analyst forecasts, while free cash flow surged 37% to $6.3 billion.
    Novartis raised its 2025 guidance, now expecting low-teens growth in core operating income for the year, reflecting ongoing commercial strength and pipeline progress.

    VOLV B

    Volvo AB

    SEK

    263.60

    -2.12%

    Volvo AB release

    VOLV B

    Volvo AB reported net sales of SEK 122.9 bn—a 5% decline on a currency-adjusted basis—driven by a 6% drop in vehicle volumes, particularly in North America where trade uncertainties linger Europe showed signs of stabilization, cushioning the overall decline.
    Service revenues remained flat year-on-year, with rolling 12-month figures at SEK 126.3 bn.
    Adjusted operating income came in at SEK 13.5 bn, yielding an 11.0% margin—down from 13.9% a year ago but outperforming expectations. Operating cash flow in Industrial Operations dropped sharply to SEK 2.95 bn from SEK 9.06 bn in Q2 2024
    Market headwinds persist in North America—cited as a “wait-and-see” region

    EQT

    EQT AB

    SEK

    328.60

    -3.01%

    EQT AB release

    EQT

    Revenue and Profit: EQT posted a 3% increase in H1 revenue to €1.27 billion and net profit of €346 million, both softer than consensus expectations. However, adjusted EBITDA jumped 32% to €806 million, beating forecasts and driving a healthy 60% margin.
    Assets Under Management (AUM): Fee-generating AUM rose 6% year-on-year to €140.7 billion, slightly below estimates, pointing to continued but moderated growth in investor capital.
    Exit Volumes: The firm more than tripled its exit volumes from a year earlier, reaching €13 billion in total gross exits—a standout achievement amid global private equity slowdown. "
    This demonstrates EQT’s ability to secure liquidity for investors even in challenging times."

    NDA FI

    Nordea Bank Abp

    EUR

    12.03

    -3.64%

    Nordea Bank Abp release

    NDA FI

    Q2 Operating profit reached EUR 1.6 billion, narrowly surpassing market expectations. Total income was resilient, but net interest income declined by 6% year-on-year due to policy rate cuts in the quarter, consistent with broader sector trends. Fee and commission income stabilized after early-quarter market volatility, while insurance and fair value contributions remained solid.
    Lending volumes increased across segments: mortgages rose 6% (driven by Sweden and Norway), corporate loans rose 5%, and retail/corporate deposits climbed 8% and 5% respectively. Assets under management grew by 9%.
    Cost growth (up 4%) was controlled and in line with guidance, primarily reflecting strategic investments, inflation, and FX effects.
    The outlook remains unchanged as management expects lower inflation and interest rates to support future customer activity and economic recovery.

    ESSITY B

    Essity AB (publ)

    SEK

    248.00

    -4.32%

    Essity AB (publ) release

    ESSITY B

    Q2 adjusted EBITA came in 5% below expectations due to lower volumes, particularly in the institutional incontinence market and the U.S. professional hygiene segment.
    Net sales decreased 6.6% to SEK 34,185 million, and EBITA (excluding items affecting comparability) dropped 13% to SEK 4,693 million.
    Profit margin declined as limited volume growth reduced cost coverage; volumes were flat or only slightly positive in most core categories, reflecting a weak economy and challenging demand in segments like Professional Hygiene and Baby Care.
    Currency headwinds and external uncertainty further weighed on both sales and reported earnings.
    Management commentary stressed stable performance under tough conditions, but the focus from investors is on the disappointing earnings and outlook, especially after the recent CEO transition and in light of new cost-saving initiatives

    PUB

    Publicis Groupe SA

    EUR

    85.06

    -5.36%

    Publicis Groupe SA release

    PUB

    Q2 organic net revenue surged +5.9% year-over-year—comfortably beating the 4.6% consensus and surpassing its own five-year CAGR of \~4.9%. Full‑year organic growth forecast was raised to “close to 5%,” up from the prior 4–5% range. Total Q2 revenue rose 10% to €3.62 billion, with organic growth fueled by a “record new business run” including Coca‑Cola, Nespresso, Lego, Paramount, and Spotify; net new business wins hit $5.2 billion in H1. Growth was geographically broad across North America (+5.3%), Europe (+4.6%), and Asia‑Pac (+5.7%).
    Operating margin reached 17.4% in H1, up from \~17.3% a year ago. Publicis continues targeting bolt-on acquisitions—like BR Media and Atomic 212°—to enhance its AI and data-driven marketing stack, aiming to reinforce differentiation from Big Tech ad platforms. Despite optimism, CEO Arthur Sadoun warned that H2 could face softer client spending, especially for large transformation projects via Sapient.

    DKSH

    DKSH Holding Ltd.

    CHF

    60.20

    -5.79%

    DKSH Holding Ltd. release

    DKSH

    H1 Organic sales growth was 1.8% year-on-year, underperforming the consensus estimate of 2.7%.
    Missing expectations was most notable in the Consumer Goods segment (which declined 0.5% vs. the expected growth of 0.5%) and the Performance Materials segment (0.8% growth vs. 4% expected). Healthcare performed best but still came in slightly below expectations (3.7% actual vs. 4.0% expected).
    Though core EBIT of CHF 169.3 million matched estimates and margins improved, investors focused on the disappointing revenue growth, especially in segments sensitive to economic slowdowns.

    The company reaffirmed its full-year outlook, expecting improved momentum in the second half.

    WISE

    WISE PLC

    GBp

    1038.00

    -8.30%

    WISE PLC release

    WISE

    Wise Q1 cross-border volume grew +24% YoY (+27% YoY on a constant currency basis) slightly below consensus, to £41.2bn, and Wise customer holdings grew by 31% to £22.9bn. 9.8m active customers used Wise in Q1, representing active customer growth of 17% YoY. Cross-border take rate reduced by 1bp in the quarter, or 12 bps in the year to 30 June 2025, to 52bps, reflecting a reduction in the average price together with a continued increase in the proportion of higher volume customers in the period. Underlying income was £362.0m in Q1 FY26, up 11% YoY on a reported basis and 14% YoY on a constant currency basis. Wise continues to expect strong growth in underlying income in FY26, in line with the medium-term guidance of 15-20% on a constant currency basis. Remains focused on the long-term growth opportunity and becoming ‘theʼ network for the worldʼs money while investing to target an underlying profit before tax margin of 13-16% in the medium term, with FY26 expected to be around the top of this range.

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