A busy morning of corporate news spans deal-making, leadership changes, and operational milestones. Greatland Gold (AIM:GGP) delivered a standout production beat to close its financial year, while ITV (LSE:ITV) announced a transformative disposal of its Media and Entertainment division to Sky for up to £1.6 billion, one of the more significant asset sales in the UK media sector in recent years.
Greatland Gold beats FY26 gold production guidance
Greatland Gold (AIM:GGP), the AIM and ASX-listed producer, closed its 2026 financial year with gold output running 6% above the top end of its guidance range, a result that underscores the operational momentum at its flagship asset. The company ended the period with $1.29 billion in cash and no debt, a balance sheet position that provides substantial headroom for future development or capital returns.
Tim Steiner to lead Ocado through to early 2028
Ocado Group (LSE:OCDO) has confirmed that founder and Chief Executive Tim Steiner will remain in post through the start of the 2028 financial year, providing a defined leadership horizon for the business. Steiner's departure will be followed by an advisory role extending to 2029, giving the company a structured transition period as it continues to scale its technology licensing operations globally.
Castlelake given until 3 August to firm up easyJet approach
The Takeover Panel has set 3 August as the revised put-up-or-shut-up deadline for Castlelake's pursuit of easyJet (LSE:EZJ), after the US private equity firm offered a "best endeavours" regulatory commitment alongside its fifth takeover proposal for the airline. The extension reflects the complexity of securing regulatory clearance for a transaction of this nature, and keeps the deal live for another month while Castlelake works through its due diligence and financing obligations.
Avon Technologies wins $10.8 million NATO respirator contract
Avon Technologies (LSE:AVON) secured a $10.8 million order for respirator equipment from a European NATO ally, adding to its pipeline of defence contracts as allied nations continue to expand military procurement. Chief Executive Jos Sclater said the award reflected Avon Protection's standing as a trusted supplier to NATO forces, a position the company has built over decades of specialised respiratory protection work.
Balfour Beatty strengthens board with two US energy specialists
Balfour Beatty (LSE:BBY) appointed two US-based energy industry veterans to its board, reinforcing its strategic focus on large-scale infrastructure and energy projects in North America. Chair Lord Charles Allen said the new directors bring "significant international experience and strong track records in major projects, safety critical delivery, operational performance, risk and governance", credentials that align with Balfour Beatty's growing exposure to the US energy transition and defence infrastructure markets.
Kosmos Energy cuts net debt by $400 million as Ghana drilling delivers
Kosmos Energy (LSE:KOS) reduced net debt by $400 million in the first half of 2026, driven by strong production from its Ghana operations where the 2026 drilling programme at the Jubilee field has delivered high-impact well results. Chairman and chief executive Andrew G. Inglis said the initial results "highlight the potential of Jubilee," signalling that the field could support further production growth through the second half of the year.
ITV disposes of Media and Entertainment arm to Sky for up to £1.6 billion
ITV (LSE:ITV) agreed to sell its Media and Entertainment business to Sky for a consideration of up to £1.6 billion, marking a significant reshaping of the broadcaster's portfolio as it focuses on its Studios production and distribution operations. Chief Executive Carolyn McCall said Sky would be "a strong and responsible custodian of ITV M&E," framing the deal as a strategic fit for both parties rather than a distressed disposal.
BATM secures three-year broadband support contract extension in the US
BATM Advanced Communications (LSE:BVC) extended its network support services agreement with one of the largest cable operators in the United States, covering operations across 23 states for a further three years. The contract is valued at approximately $1.3 million and provides revenue visibility for BATM's networking division through the extension period.
Raspberry Pi appoints Tim Powell as Chief Financial Officer
Raspberry Pi (LSE:RPI) named Tim Powell as its incoming Chief Financial Officer, with Powell set to take up the role in October. Chairman Martin Hellawell said Powell brings "deep experience of scaling fast-growing businesses and navigating periods of significant strategic development," a profile that fits Raspberry Pi's position as a recently listed company managing rapid commercial expansion alongside its established education and hobbyist markets.
