Themes from August
Kim Jong-Un resumed North Korea’s test firing of ballistic missiles in the direction of Guam and over Japan. The move brought international condemnation and caused volatility on world markets.
BHP Billiton hiked its final dividend to 43 cents from 14 cents after reporting profit of US$5.89bn +192% on FY2016.
Jackson Hole meeting concluded with the world’s central bankers suggesting the time for scaling back stimulus measures was approaching. Both ECB President Mario Draghi and Janet Yellen Federal Reserve chair remained silent on monetary policy.
Hikma Pharmaceuticals revised its sales guidance down to US$2bn for 2017. Following a slump in its share price, it announced significant price hikes for its US drugs in one case quadrupling the price.
Sterling declined sharply to lows of €1.078 on concern over the lack of progress in the UK/EU “Brexit” talks.
Provident Financial is to leave the UK100 index following the CEO’s departure, and news of a likely £100m loss in the consumer credit division arising from low collection rates.
Dixons Carphone provided profit guidance of £360m-£440m – £80m lower than previous guidance due to less interest in mobile phone upgrades and higher expenses.