Fund manager profile: Ian Lance on trusting the process
Redwheel’s Value and Income fund manager discusses the nuances of value investing
Redwheel’s Value and Income fund manager discusses the nuances of value investing
Key events for UK wealth managers for the week starting 9 January
John Lewis offered a glimmer of hope for the UK retail scene following a tough Christmas period, but M&S struggled with a “mixed” third quarter as competitive pressure continued to bite.
Analysts and markets were decidedly mixed on Marks and Spencer’s latest set of interim figures, which showed a more encouraging picture for its clothing and home business, while its traditionally stronger food business was hit by weak sterling.
In a surprising turn of events, the Office for National Statistics reported that August retail sales in the UK delivered strong volume growth against the odds.
In light of Marks & Spencer’s full-year decline in profits, analysts are mixed on just how steep the group’s uphill battle will be and whether its revamp will have the desired effect.
Although Thursday’s influx of trading updates highlighted positive growth for retailers like Marks & Spencer and Tesco, problems in the sector persist, according to Brewin Dolphin equity analyst Nicla di Palma.
Marks & Spencer shares dipped by 1.83% to 342.6p as it announced it would be closing 30 stores in the UK and cease trading in ten overseas markets.
Marks & Spencer’s share price was down 1.05% to 291p Thursday morning following news of its persistent clothing sales slump.
Online retailers have changed the rules of the game for consumer spending, and portfolio managers are struggling to catch up, says PSigma Investment Management.
Marks and Spencer’s share price slumped 7.23% to £4.13 in morning trade after announcing a sharp fall in pre-tax profit.
Thursday’s news that M&S CEO Marc Bolland is retiring was well received by investors who see the move as a credible next chapter in the firm’s ongoing self-help story.