Futura Medical (FUM) slumped after deeply discounted fundraise

Shares in Futura Medical were sharply lower after the healthcare company unveiled a £1.6 million fundraising priced at 0.2p a share and launched a formal sale process alongside a broader strategic review. The company said the cash injection would extend its runway into February 2027 while it explores potential corporate transactions and options for its portfolio, including WSD4000.

The market focused on the dilution implied by the placing price, with Futura shares down during Thursday trading.

Crest Nicholson (CRST) edged lower despite debt progress

Crest Nicholson slipped after issuing a trading update which highlighted better-than-expected debt reduction but weaker summer trading conditions. The housebuilder said year-end net debt should come in at £70 million to £90 million, an improvement of around £30 million on previous guidance. However, it also reported softer sales rates over the last six weeks as affordability pressures and competitive pricing continued to weigh on demand.

The stock fell as the downgraded trading backdrop offset the improved balance sheet outlook.

Watches of Switzerland (WOSG) held steady after reaffirming guidance

Watches of Switzerland was little changed after an AGM trading update showed encouraging momentum across both the US and UK markets. The luxury watch retailer said trading during the first 17 weeks of the financial year remained consistent with the positive trends outlined at its annual results, with strength across luxury jewellery, certified pre-owned watches and ecommerce. The group reiterated full-year guidance for revenue growth and margin expansion.

With no material change to expectations, the shares were broadly flat in early dealings.