Pearcroft Developers: Pioneers in Sustainable, Net Zero Homes 

At Pearcroft, we’re more than just a property development company—we’re on a mission to transform the way homeowners live by building carbon-neutral housing that not just looks good, but gives back to the planet. As the UK’s leading developer of net-zero homes, Pearcroft stands as a testament to the power of combining cutting-edge technology with a relentless commitment to sustainability. But we’re not just talking the talk—we’re walking the walk, and we’re setting a new benchmark for what’s possible in the world of property development. 

A New Standard in Energy-Efficient Living 

The homes we build at Pearcroft aren’t just about luxurious design and modern comforts; they are eco-conscious havens that actively contribute to a greener planet. Our homes are equipped with the latest in sustainable technologies and materials, ensuring that they not only reduce environmental impact but also each is fitted with MVHR systems too, ensuring fresh, pollutant-free air fills the home, providing a better quality of life for their owners.   

We’ve made a bold promise to our homeowners: a 5-year energy bill guarantee. This unique promise ensures that all Pearcroft homes will generate more energy than the homeowner uses, giving them peace of mind and reducing their living costs. With EPC ratings of A+ and average carbon emissions of -0.5 tonnes, our properties exceed industry standards and demonstrate what’s truly achievable in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability. But we’re not stopping there—our vision is set on even greater achievements. 

The Pearcroft Difference: Sustainability at the Core 

How do we achieve this? It’s all in the details. The homes that Pearcroft build integrate advanced sustainable technologies with high-quality construction materials to create energy-efficient, comfortable living spaces. Here’s a look at how we do it: 

  • Architectural Design: Our homes are designed to complement their surroundings, embracing modern living while respecting the area’s architectural and environmental context. 
  • Sensitive Landscaping: We carefully consider the natural environment and local community when designing our developments, ensuring that our landscaping supports biodiversity and enhances the overall aesthetic of the area. 
  • Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels with Battery Storage: Harnessing the power of the sun, our homes feature solar panels that generate electricity for lighting, appliances, and vehicle charging. Paired with battery storage, these systems ensure that energy is efficiently captured, used and shared back with the grid. 
  • Air and Ground Source Heat Pumps: These replace traditional fossil-fuel heating systems, providing low-carbon heating and hot water in the most energy-efficient way possible. 
  • Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery (MVHR): Our homes are equipped with MVHR systems that ensure fresh, pollutant-free air and maintain optimal temperatures year-round. 
  • High-Performance Insulation: Excellent insulation in the floors, walls, and roofs enhances thermal efficiency, ensuring the home stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer with minimal energy use. 
  • AAA Rated Triple-Glazed Windows: Our windows are designed to keep out the cold, reduce noise, and improve energy efficiency, contributing to a more peaceful and comfortable home environment. 
  • Smart Controls: We offer intuitive, smart home systems that allow owners to control their home’s heating, lighting, and energy use, offering ultimate convenience and personalisation. 
  • Water saving features: Every shower and tap delivers instant hot water, saving cold run off.  

Meet the Visionaries Behind Pearcroft: Martyn Balm and Kevin Harris 

The driving force behind Pearcroft is the partnership of two industry trailblazers: Martyn Balm and Kevin Harris. With a wealth of experience in property development, both men share a commitment to creating homes that don’t just meet the needs of today’s homeowners but also leave a positive legacy for the future. 

Martyn Balm: The Seasoned Strategist 

You wouldn’t say Martyn’s journey into property development is typical, but throughout his career, he’s gathered a wealth of knowledge and a nose for quality investment. From his early days as the top advertising salesperson at the Gloucester Citizen to becoming an award-winning insurance broker, Martyn has always had a knack for spotting opportunities and seizing them with both hands. 

From Martyn’s days at art college, he’s always been creative, practical and long held a dream to build his own house. After 20 years of running his own insurance business, he sold up, brought his dream to life and caught the property developing bug.  

After a few years honing his skills, Martyn became a land acquisition specialist. His ability to identify prime development opportunities and navigate complex negotiations meant demand for his help rocketed. He’s worked with some of the most prestigious names in the industry, including Hamptons International and other household names. He even featured in The Sunday Times for his innovative property development back in the 2008 recession. 

For Martyn, it’s always been about doing good business with good people. He’s the first one to admit that as he’s getting on in years, he’s keener than ever to leave a positive legacy. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible is founded on leaving the world better for everyone. And this is at the very heart of Pearcroft’s ethos. 

Kevin describes Martyn succinctly as a ‘man of the world with a heart of gold.’ He enjoys a laugh and sharing his expertise, whether it’s through his fantastic stories or supportive approach. He even has a private pilot’s license! 

Kevin Harris: The Dynamic Dealmaker 

With a background that’s as diverse as it is impressive, Kevin brings a unique blend of financial acumen and property expertise to the table. Kevin left university to become a partner in a clothing business, heading up management and sales, but after a few years, decided property was his destiny.  

He joined a leading London estate agent, where he rapidly climbed the ranks from trainee to Area Director in just six years. Managing several offices across Central London, he developed a keen understanding of the luxury property market and the art of high-value sales. 

In 2017, he struck out on his own and began brokering deals worth hundreds of millions of pounds, working with clients, including Qatari princes and Russian oligarchs. His ability to secure funding and facilitate complex transactions has helped to bring some of the most ambitious development projects to life.  

Kevin marks his success to being a ‘lucky get’ but that witty modesty hints at the real secret – his people skills. He’s comfortable talking to everyone from princes to plumbers, thanks to his unpretentious and affable approach. His drive and good nature are infectious.  

Martyn says Kevin’s ‘entrepreneurial spirit shines through in everything he does.’ From leaving university in his early twenties, he’s consistently showed an ability to build and grow successful enterprises. 

Partnership Foundations 

Martyn and Kevin’s paths crossed in 2021 while they were on opposing sides of a land deal in Devon and hit it off straight away. Sharing a frustration about being the middlemen and with a vision for what sustainable property development could be, they joined forces to create something truly special. 

Despite the 25-year age gap and different backgrounds, Martyn and Kevin share a pragmatic and dogged spirit of getting things done. The result is Pearcroft, luxury homes with an unrelenting innovative focus on sustainability – benefiting people and the planet.  

Homes that combine high-quality materials with state-of-the-art sustainable technology, without leaving a stain on our conscience or a scar on the planet. Owners can enjoy all modern life’s little pleasures, we leave a legacy for generations, and investors benefit from ethical and strong returns. 

With features in The Sunday Times and Oxfordshire Living Magazine, and a sponsorship deal with Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, Pearcroft is quickly making a name for themselves in the world of high-end, carbon neutral property. 

Martyn and Kevin bring a perfect balance of experience and innovation, pragmatism and ambition, determination and vision. As they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, one thing is clear – Pearcroft is in very capable hands. 

Property investment that’s as good for your portfolio as it is for the planet. Explore our exclusive opportunities here. 

AIM movers: Hummingbird Resources agrees debt reduction and bid for Loungers

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Hummingbird Resources (LON: HUM) has agreed a subscription with CIG and Nioko Resources Corporation. There will be 863.1 million shares issued at 2.677p each and this will facilitate the conversion of £23.1m of loan facilities into shares. The subscription will be in two tranches. The subscriber will hold 49.9% of Hummingbird after the first tranche and 71.8% after the second tranche. The share price recovered 35% to 1.85p.

Bars operator Loungers (LON: LGRS) has agreed a 310p/share cash bid from Fortress Investment, which values it at £338.3m. Irrevocable acceptances are 40.2%. Singer does not believe that this fully values the business and thinks 375p/share is a fairer value. Interim pre-tax profit grew 51% to £5.95m, while net debt was £12.2m. Like-for-like growth in revenues has been 3.9% so far in the third quarter. Full year pre-tax profit is forecast to improve from £18m to £23.8m. Despite higher National Insurance costs next year’s pre-tax profit is expected to be £27.4m. The share price jumped 29% to 307p.

Strategic Minerals (LON: SML) has extended the agreement that provides access to the Cobre magnetite stockpile in New Mexico to March 2029. There is also a new purchase order of up to 30,000 tonnes for 2025 from an existing client. The 2024 sales should exceed $4.5m. The share price improved 13.6% to 0.25p.

Orosur Mining Inc (LON: OMI) has completed the acquisition of Minera Monte Aguila giving it 100% ownership of the Anza gold project in Colombia. Drilling has commenced at Pepas. The share price increased 9.76% to 4.5p.

Animal drugs developer Eco Animal Health (LON: ECO) says the first half was tough but trading is improving. Interim revenues were 13% lower at £33.2m and the underlying loss increased from £310,000 to £2.28m. Revenues are recovering in China. Expectations were downgraded in October and full year pre-tax profit is still expected to decline from £4.2m to £3.4m. Next year there should be additional benefits from the R&D investment. The share price rose 9.16% to 71.5p.

FALLERS

Beacon Energy (LON: BCE) says reservoir performance from the SCHB-2 sidetrack well in the Erfelden field in Germany has fallen 20% to 45 barrels/day. Beacon Energy has not been able to agree a restructuring offer with Rhein Petroleum creditors. This means that some of Rhein Petroleum’s assets are being sold and it is likely to be liquidated. Beacon Energy would then be classed as a cash shell. Beacon Energy has enough cash until next summer and is assessing other opportunities. The share price slumped by one-third to 0.0035p.

Timber supplier James Latham (LON: LTHM) revenues dipped 2% to £186.6m as prices weaken, and higher overheads meant that pre-tax profit fell from £16.4m to £13.6m. The interim dividend was raised from 7.75p/share to 7.95p/share. Net cash is £66.9m. Market conditions are not expected to improve until the middle of next year. Full year results will be slightly below last year’s level. The share price fell 9.69% to 1165p.

Rare books dealer Scholium (LON: SCHO) intends to leave AIM and believes this will save at least £75,000/year. In the six months to September 2024, underlying pre-tax profit improved from £43,000 to £221,000 on revenues that improved 30% to £4.97m. A matched bargain facility will be provided by JP Jenkins. The AIM cancellation is likely to be on 6 January. NAV is 74.6p/share. The share price is 9.72% lower at 32.5p.

Ex-dividends

Calnex Solutions (LON: CLX) is paying an interim dividend of 0.31p/share and the share price is unchanged at 60.5p.

CML Microsystems (LON: CML) is paying an interim dividend of 5p/share and the share price declined 2.5p to 240p.

Craneware (LON: CRW) is paying a final dividend of 16p/share and the share price slipped 5p to 2345p.

Fiske (LON: FKE) is paying a final dividend of 0.75p/share and the share price is unchanged at 70p.

Marks Electrical (LON: MRK) is paying an interim dividend of 0.3p/share and the share price

Michelmersh Brick (LON: MBH) is paying an interim dividend of 1.6p/share and the share price

Pan African Resources (LON: PAF) is paying a final dividend of 0.96p/share and the share price dipped 1.7p to 34.25p.

PetroTal Corp (LON: PTAL) is paying a dividend of 1.5 cents/share and the share price slipped 0.25p to 35p.

Tristel (LON: TSTL) is paying a final dividend of 8.28p/share and the share price fell 5p to 435p.

Volex (LON: VLX) is paying an interim dividend of 1.5p/share and the share price rose 0.75p to 290.75p.

YouGov (LON: YOU) is paying a final dividend of 9p/share and the share price declined 6.5p to 443.5p.

A dependable, diversified, and differentiated approach to UK Equity Income with Murray Income Trust

The UK Investor Magazine was delighted to welcome Charles Luke, Manager of the Murray Income Trust, to the podcast to explore the trust’s investment strategy and the factors driving investor returns.

Charles outlines their approach to UK Equity Income, centring around the ‘Three Ds’: dependability, diversification, and differentiation.

The Murray Income Trust retains over 50% of dividend revenue for consistent growth. The Murray Income Trust is a true dividend hero, continually increasing dividends for 51 years and yielding 4.7%.

Charles details recent additions to the portfolio and shares what excites him the most about being a UK Equity Income manager over the coming 12 months.

Find out more on the Murray Income Trust website

Share Tip: AO World – Latest interims upgraded to progressive profit growth, shares rated as a buy, highest AIM 150p, now just 109p 

I do like to see companies increasing their guidance given to the market, especially in these times. 
Just such a case for example is one of my favourites, the AO World (LON:AO.) electrical retail group, which on Tuesday of this week, 26th November, announced its Interim Results to end-September. 
The figures were very good, while the group also upgraded its guidance for the current year. 
The Business 
The Bolton-based group is the UK's most trusted major electrical retailer, with a mission to be the destination for electricals.  
Its strategy is to create value ...

Dr Martens shares jumps on hopes of stabilisation in the second half

Dr Martens shares jumped on Thursday after the bootmaker made positive sounds about their outlook in first-half results that revealed falling revenue and widening profits.

Revenue fell 18% (16% at constant currency) to £324.6 million, though this performance was in line with the company’s expectations and previous guidance of a 20% decline.

The revenue decline was particularly pronounced in the wholesale segment, which dropped 29%. The direct-to-consumer (DTC) business showed more resilience, declining by 7%, with e-commerce performing slightly better than retail stores. Within the DTC channel, retail revenue decreased by 9%, while e-commerce sales fell by just 4%.

Looking at regional performance, the Americas showed the steepest decline, with revenue down 22%, followed by EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) at 16%, while APAC (Asia Pacific) demonstrated the most resilience with a 12% decline.

However, investors choose to look past a very bad trading period in the first half and focus on signs of a brighter future. The company said they expect their US DTC business to return to growth in the second half, which will be a welcome relief for shareholders after the company has struggled to build a meaningful foothold in the market.

“Dr. Martens’ brand strength came from its iconic connection to music, giving it lasting cultural relevance. Recent shifts to fashion-based rebellion lacked this depth. Experts suggest returning to music ties to reinforce their iconic products and ensure long-term growth,” said Yanmei Tang, Analyst at Third Bridge.

“In Europe, Dr. Martens is the go-to brand for boots, but in the U.S., awareness is low. Competitors like Steve Madden and Aldo have filled the gap, and Dr. Martens hasn’t fully invested in brand recognition. 

“Their store expansion strategy doesn’t work in America because the U.S. has a lower population density than Europe. Our experts suggest they should rightsize the stores to free up capital for marketing spend, focusing more on performance marketing, direct-to-consumer through e-commerce, and building brand equity for their iconic product and the boot category overall.”

Investors will also be pleased that the firm is taking action on costs and reducing inventory.

Dr Martens shares were 12% higher at the time of writing.

GenIP Investor Presentation November 2024

Download the Presentation Slides here.

GenIP provides generative artificial intelligence analytic services to help organisations assess and commercialise new discoveries. GenIP combines expert human technical review with GenAI algorithms to provide insightful and verified solutions. Bridging the gap between groundbreaking ideas and commercial success. GenIP provides GenAI enhanced services designed to assess the viability of innovations and connect them with leadership to bring them to market. GenIP’s core values revolve around fostering innovation and maintaining integrity. The company is committed to providing insightful evaluations of market potential for new innovations by leveraging human and GenAI knowledge to enhance their commercialisation success.

FTSE 100 avoids European selling as easyjet hikes dividend

The FTSE 100 traded broadly flat on Wednesday as London’s leading index avoided the wave of selling dragging on mainland European indices on fears of US tariffs.

“The FTSE 100 was the outlier in a sea of red across the main European indices,” said Dan Coatsworth, investment analyst at AJ Bell.

“Investors are growing increasingly concerned that Donald Trump’s next tariff target is continental Europe, creating another potential headwind on top of the existing one in the form of lacklustre economic activity.”

Trump took aim at Mexico, Canada, and China in a social media post this week, threatening 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports and an additional 10% tariff on China.

Weakness in Europe and sideways trade in London followed another record high for the S&P 500 overnight after investors reacted to increased hopes of an interest rate cut in December.

“The Fed’s Open Market Committee minutes leave the door open for another small interest rate cut in December, which also helped buoy sentiment,” said Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets, Hargreaves Lansdown.

“Caution is the name of the game at the Fed, amid economic uncertainty. The upcoming consumer price data and employment snapshots for November will be key data points to watch.”

easyjet

easyjet shares gained in London as investors cheered a proposed hike in its dividend following a period of strong trading in which profits soared 34%.

“easyJet has continued its upward trajectory, cashing in on strong demand from sunseekers, to deliver another record-breaking summer,” said Aarin Chiekrie, equity analyst, Hargreaves Lansdown.

“The revenue and profit uplift were largely fuelled by more holidaymakers snapping up the group’s expanded capacity, which grew 8% last year. That helped to keep planes running at over 89% full on average. Given the high fixed costs associated with flying planes, keeping them as full as possible is key to profitability. The package Holiday arm is also really taking off, with pre-tax profits up 56% as it continues to steal market share. Growth has been impressive and there looks like a long runway ahead for this thriving segment.”

easyjet’s board is recommending a 12.5p dividend, up from 4.5p last year.

Vistry was the top riser despite news the housebuilder was set to be demoted from the FTSE 100 after a series of warnings on profit following cost miscalculations at several of its projects. Vistry shares were 4.5% higher at the time of writing.

AIM movers: Firering Strategic Minerals doubles rare earths resource and Helix Exploration disappointment

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Firering Strategic Minerals (LON: FRG) announced a maiden JORC compliant mineral resource estimate for the quicklime project in Zambia. This shows a near-doubling of the resource tonnes compared with the 2017 estimate. There is 145.2Mt at 95.7% CaCO3, including 11.8Mt in the measured category. This could provide more than 50 years of production. There is growing demand from copper and industrial clients. The share price is 6.48% ahead at 5.75p.

Mkango Resources (LON: MKA) has appointed Cohen & Company as US financial adviser for Lancaster Exploration, which owns the Songwe Hill rare earth project in Malawi and the Pulawy rare earth separation plant project in Poland. This could herald a US listing for these operations or other transactions. The share price increased 6.45% to 8.25p.

Faron Pharmaceuticals (LON: FARN) says that the interim phase 2 read out from the BEXMAB trial confirms earlier positive findings in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with prior hypomethylating agent (HMA) failure. This is based on 20 patients with more being enrolled. There will be another efficacy read out in the first quarter of 2025. The share price rose 6.25% to 170p.

Rockwood Strategic (LON: RKW) has built up a 4.54% stake in Kooth (LON: KOO). This follows Canaccrd Genuity cutting its stake from 8.97% to 3.38%. River Global Investors recently nearly doubled its stake to 10.1%. The share price of the digital mental health services provider has slumped since it lost a contract in Pennsylvania, but it has recovered 6.71% to 175p.

Sensing and measuring equipment developer Transense Technology (LON: TRT) revenues have increased 48% so far in this financial year, with the core operations growing revenues by 85%. Costs of scaling up the business mean that profit is 10% higher. Net cash was £1.72m at the end of October 2024. The share price improved 4.17% to 187.5p.

One Media IP (LON: OMIP) is selling TCAT, which monitors unauthorised exploitation of music, to digital agency Round Group in return for a 5% stake in the purchaser. One Media IP is loaning £175,000 to Round Group. TCAT lost £566,000 last year, so the deal will improve profitability of the group. The share price moved up 5.48% to 3.85p.

FALLERS

Helix Exploration (LON: HEX) reports that the Amsden formation at the Clink#1 well in the Ingomar Dome in Montana has sub-economic grades of helium. Amsden was always thought to be a small proportion of the potential resource. The more important Flathead formation at the same well had 2.5% helium. The company believes that there could be helium below the Amsden formation and there will be appraisal testing of the Charles formation. Investor sentiment is likely to be volatile and the share price slumped 31.5% to 15p.

Galantas Gold (LON: GAL) had cash of C$383,000 at the end of September 2024. That was after a cash outflow from operations of C$139,000 and C$2.1m of capital investment. The share price dipped 12.8% to 4.25p.

Strix (LON: KETL) says that the kettle controls market has weakened, particularly in higher margin markets in the UK and Germany. The positive signs in the first half did not continue. This is due to poor consumer confidence, while there are also cost pressures. Zeus has reduced its 2024 pre-tax profit forecast from £23.6m to £17.5m, with a modest recovery to £18.2m expected in 2025. The share price slipped 7.39% to 55.75p.

Nine Bargain UK stocks for Black Friday by eToro

The UK stock market is chronically undervalued, affording value hunters rich pickings as we approach the end of 2024.  

etoro has picked out a selection of ‘bargain’ UK shares for Black Friday spanning various sectors, each with its own compelling thesis. The selection spans a variety of sectors and highlights a number of companies that could benefit from increased spending during the end-of-year period.

“Whether you’re looking for growth, stability, or value, there are plenty of UK stocks across key sectors that could offer intriguing opportunities this Black Friday. By strategically investing in companies with attractive valuations, investors can potentially capitalise on market shifts and seasonal trends,” said Sam North, market analyst at eToro.

Here are etoro’s picks explained in their own words: 

JD Sports

Black Friday is an important annual event for JD Sports as the company capitalises on promotions to boost sales or clear older stock. With its P/E ratio and other valuation metrics near historical lows, the stock appears undervalued. For the share price to return to the highs seen in 2022, it would require a 50% increase, making it an intriguing opportunity for investors.

Burberry

While luxury brands often resist widespread sales to maintain exclusivity, the heightened interest during Black Friday could still benefit Burberry indirectly. The company’s P/E ratio is near historical lows, and its stock price recently rebounded from a 14-year low. If CEO Joshua Schulman can execute a strong strategy, there could be significant upside potential from here.

Dr. Martens

As the bootmaker’s stock price is down over 35% year-to-date, the company could be an undervalued opportunity for investors willing to take on some risk. A strategic recovery could position Dr. Martens well if it can bridge the gap between tradition and evolving consumer tastes.

Standard Chartered

While banks don’t participate directly in Black Friday, retail events like these can influence consumer spending and borrowing habits. Standard Chartered could benefit from increased holiday financing, which may drive up credit card usage and borrowing. Trading at a 9-year high, the bank’s P/E ratio is near historic lows, signalling that there could still be room for further gains, particularly with a solid outlook for the coming quarters.

Frasers Group 

As the owner of major retail brands like Sports Direct, Frasers Group is poised to take advantage of Black Friday and offer discounts across its multi-brand portfolio to attract shoppers across a variety of demographics. Frasers’ P/E ratio is near historical lows at 9.09, its P/B ratio is near a three-year low, and its share price remains 25% below its all-time high. All of this demonstrates strong underlying performance and potential value for investors.

Berkeley Group Holdings

While not directly affected by Black Friday, companies like Berkeley Group can benefit from increased consumer confidence and spending. Investors looking for opportunities in the real estate sector may find value in Berkeley, as it is trading below peak levels. Although its stock price is in decline, it could present an opportunity for investors if shares approach a historically strong support point at 3,700p.

Greggs

Known for its popular bakery items, Greggs continues to attract customers during Black Friday with promotions like this year’s 25% off orders via Just Eat. While the company is not heavily reliant on Black Friday, such discounts can still boost both foot traffic and online sales. The stock offers a low-risk investment, with a strong dividend yield near a three-year high.

Diageo

As one of the world’s leading beverage alcohol companies, Diageo is a reliable choice for investors seeking stability and growth in the consumer goods sector. Trading at a P/B ratio of 6.49, close to a five-year low, and a P/E ratio of 16.98, near a 10-year low, Diageo could be undervalued. Its P/S ratio of 3.24 is also near a 10-year low, suggesting potential for long-term growth. The company’s strong dividend yield is near a 10-year high, making it an attractive option for investors looking for both growth and income.

Auto Trader

As one of the UK’s leading online automotive marketplaces, Auto Trader capitalises on increased consumer activity during the holiday season, even though it doesn’t directly participate in Black Friday. From a technical perspective, the 2021 high of 748p serves as an important level to watch. With solid fundamentals, Auto Trader represents a good option for investors looking for value stocks.

Share Tip: Severfield – A few bridges too far, delayed not cancelled growth, with brokers cutting its TP from 130p to 105p, but shares now 56p offer ‘recovery upside’ 

Taking a view on just how quickly a company can recover from shock losses is one of the most rewarding ways of investing in these markets. 
Catching the opportunity of the swift pull-back in a company’s share price as it reacts to the latest piece of corporate news enables aware investors to gain some advantage. 
Recently, we have seen the market over-react to poor news, taking equities down in the process. 
Then, within days, a large part of that response is covered back with share prices rising accordingly. 
Effectively fresh analysis replaces previous views and adjusts.&...