Synthetic binders developer Aptamer (LON: APTA) has signed a licensing agreement with Alphazyme, a Maravai LifeSciences company that supplies speciality enzymes to the life sciences sector. The non-exclusive deal is for a developed Optimer® for use in hot-start PCR applications – when the enzyme switches on when heated. The original development deal was signed in June 2024 and another development project has recently completed.
Checkit (LON: CKT) chief executive Kit Kyte bought 22,935 shares at 21.8p each, taking his stake to 1.73%.
Quantum Helium (LON: QHE) published a year-end update rounding up previous announcements. Priorities for 2026 include receipt of 3D seismic results and integrating this into drilling plans, commencement of flow test at Sagebrush-1 and advancing commercial discussions.
FALLERS
Premier African Minerals (LON: PREM) says it has been issued with a writ of execution of movable property at the Zulu project by a creditor seeking $2.2m. Discussions continue with the creditor, which is JR Goddard Contracting.
Wind turbine monitoring technology developer Windar Photonics (LON: WPHO) expects record revenues of between €6.5m and €6.8m in 2025. It could reach EBITDA breakeven. There was a delay to an order in China, which will move into 2026.
Store closures and exiting Boots meant that Mothercare (LON: MTC) interim revenues fell by one-quarter to £90.7m. Like-for-like revenues were 6% lower. The pre-tax loss declined from £1.4m to £1.1m due to lower interest charges. The new South Asia joint venture made a positive contribution. Net debt was reduced from £17.1m to £5.8m.
Kefi Gold and Copper (LON: KEFI) raised £774,000 from a retail offer at 1.3p/share, taking the total funds raised to £6.9m with a further £8.9m subscription offsetting outstanding liabilities. The full launch of the Tulu Kapi gold project has commenced now that funding of $340m is in place.
Packaging manufacturer Robinson (LON: RBN) says trading is in line with expectations and it expects to complete one previously announced property disposal in January. Two more properties are being sold for £2.13m, which is £610,000 more than book value. Cavendish has reduced its 2026 pre-tax profit forecast to £2.7m because of lower property income and the tough outlook in Poland and Denmark.