Company News
Sage plans to up investment after hitting tough targets
A strong fourth quarter enabled Sage to deliver its tough targets for growing annual sales and profits, though the accounting software developer's profit margin will drop in the coming year as it ups investment.
First-time buyers a boom for Countryside Properties
Homebuilder Countryside Properties on Wednesday said full year pre-tax rose by 21. 8% to £180. 7m as first-time buyers drove increased demand.
Amerisur secures 100% interest in Mecaya asset
Oil and gas outfit Amerisur Resources has taken full ownership of the Mecaya block in Colombia under new "attractive" terms that will see it pay some cash now and royalties later.
United Utilities upbeat on performance ahead of AMP7
United Utilities reported a “strong” financial performance in its half-year results to 30 September on Wednesday, with an underlying operating profit rising to £367. 8m from £344m, and a reported operating profit of £339. 1m, up from £341. 8m.
Babcock takes £120m charge as first half profits fall
Defence contractor Babcock reported a 64% slump in half year pre-tax profits to £65m as it incurred exceptional charges of £120m and maintained an unchanged outlook for the full year.
CMA clears Auto Trader's JV with Cox Automotive
The Competition and Markets Authority has cleared Auto Trader's joint venture with Cox Automotive to provide a digital marketplace for wholesale vehicles in the UK.