Gulf starts at Sheikh Adi-2 25/05/2012
Iraq-focused oil explorer Gulf Keystone Petroleum (GKP) has begun drilling at the Sheikh Adi-2 well in the Sheikh Adi block.
In an interim trading update, AIM-quoted technology group Elektron (EKT) notes first-half results will be 'in line with expectations'.
The company, which is engaged in everything from making switches to providing technology for ambulances and police cars, has released a short statement saying sales and pre-tax profits for the six months to July are in line with expectations. However, Elektron remarks its tax rate is likely to be higher than in the year to last January, as the company is no longer able to benefit from carrying forward previous year's losses.
Describe trading as 'strong', the company remarks it has a sales visibility of 'approximately eight weeks'. Elektron says it is looking to change its name to Elektron Technology, to 'reflect the priority of the group' and presumably also to increase investor awareness of what it does.
Following the results, analysts at house broker finnCap have held their forecasts. FinnCap sees adjusted pre-tax profits of £6.7 million (for earnings of 4.7p a share) on turnover of £70 million for the year to January 2012. In 2013 it sees profits climbing to £7.5 million and earnings reaching 5.3p a share on sales of £77 million. A dividend of 1p and 1.1p a share is forecast for 2012 and 2013, respectively.
Last recommended by Growth Company Investor this May at 43p the shares have since slumped to 37.5p. Offering a respectable dividend yield with some strong growth prospects in overseas markets we think the shares continue to represent good value. Buy.
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Iraq-focused oil explorer Gulf Keystone Petroleum (GKP) has begun drilling at the Sheikh Adi-2 well in the Sheikh Adi block.
Oil giant Shell is extending its offer period for Mozambique-focused Cove Energy (COV) after having its bid trumped by Thai government-owned PTT Exploration & Production.
Kazakhstan-focused Roxi Petroleum (RXP) has declared that its NK7 well in the Galaz aea has drilled to a depth of 1,360 metres.
Steered by sector veteran Algy Cluff, North-Sea focused cash shell Cluff Natural Resources (CNR) has joined AIM.
Somalia-focused oil explorer Red Emperor Resources (RMP) has exercised its option to take part in the drilling of the Shabeel North well.
Oil concern Heritage Oil (HOIL) has reported its Miran West-3 well in Iraq could deliver 1,000 barrels per day of condensate.