Time is running out for BAE Systems (BA.) to confirm a long-awaited deal to sell Typhoon fighters to Qatar. Gavin Williamson, the Defence Secretary, and his Qatari counterpart unveiled the £5bn contract for 24 of the jets, together with a package of support and training, in December. However, the final terms are yet to be confirmed and the sale has already been pushed back once. BAE originally said the sale was “subject to financing conditions and receipt of first payment, expected no later than mid-2018”.
Hedge funds that made millions betting on the demise of Carillion have turned up the pressure on fellow construction giant Kier Group (KIE). The Bedfordshire-based builder has seen the proportion of its shares on loan to short sellers surge to 18% as of Friday, up from 10% one month ago, according to data from IHS Markit, leaving the stock among the most shorted on the main London market.
French arm’s struggles hit home for B&Q owner Kingfisher (KGF). Profits at B&Q owner Kingfisher are set for a double-digit fall as its overseas operations continue to struggle. Analysts expect the company to record a 12% drop in half year pre-tax profits to £386m when it updates the market on Wednesday. Its French arm Castorama, which has 102 stores, is expected to weigh hardest after a dismal second quarter.
Questor: tie-up with Dyson is another attractive cog in the wheel for specialist plastic maker Victrex plc (VCT)
