The following stocks are the leading risers and fallers among London Main Market small-caps on Friday.
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SMALL-CAP - WINNERS
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NCC Group PLC, up 9.7% at 159.00 pence, 12-month range 90.50p-160.02p. The cybersecurity company says after market close Thursday it agrees to sell Fox Crypto BV, which forms part of its Cyber division in the Netherlands. The unit will be sold for €77 million in cash to CR Group Nordic AB. ‘The disposal represents a continuation of the Group’s transformation strategy to simplify the business and create a more focused Cyber Security business. Both our Cyber and Escode businesses provide the benefit of a portfolio effect to the overall Group performance with clear future growth opportunities to enhance shareholder value,’ NCC says. NCC investor Kelso Group Holdings PLC notes the announcement. ‘Kelso continues to believe that the underlying valuation of NCC, with its two discreet businesses in Cybersecurity and Escrow software, is significantly greater than the current market capitalisation,’ it adds. Kelso owns 2.5 million NCC shares, roughly an 8% stake. Kelso shares are up 5.5%.
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SMALL-CAP - LOSERS
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Fidelity Japan Trust PLC, down 5.5% at 162.95p, 12-month range 151.00p-186.50p. Shares in Japan-focused investment trust struggle after equities in Tokyo tumble. A stronger yen and US technology woes hit the Nikkei 225 index, which falls 5.8% on Friday. Fidelity Japan Trust has investments in Nikkei constituents, including sensors, measuring and factory equipment maker Keyence Corp, financial services firm Mizuho Financial Group Inc and automotive company Honda Motor Co Ltd. Baillie Gifford Shin Nippon PLC and JPMorgan Japan Small Cap Growth & Income, which back smaller Japanese equities, fall 5.5% and 4.9%.
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