Bodycote PLC Share Buyback Activity

Bodycote PLC, a holding company specializing in metal technology, isotope pressings, and metallurgical coatings, has been actively engaging in a share buyback programme. The company announced several transactions in its own shares as part of an extension programme initiated on December 20, 2024. These transactions were executed through HSBC Bank PLC.

• July 8, 2025: Bodycote purchased 26,281 ordinary shares at a price of 173/11 pence each.
• July 9, 2025: The company acquired 25,488 ordinary shares at the same price.
• July 10, 2025: An additional 21,743 ordinary shares were bought.

These transactions are part of Bodycote’s strategy to manage its share capital and potentially enhance shareholder value.

Market Overview: London Equities Mixed Amid Trade Tensions

London equities experienced mixed performance on July 9, 2025, influenced by renewed trade tensions from the United States. The FTSE 100 index saw a slight increase of 0.15%, closing at 8,867.02 points, while the FTSE 250 experienced a minor decline of 0.06%, ending at 21,567.86 points. This market behavior followed aggressive trade threats from US President Donald Trump, who proposed significant tariffs on copper and pharmaceuticals.

In the currency markets, sterling experienced a slight decrease against the dollar, trading at $1.3586, but saw a marginal gain against the euro, reaching €1.1605. The proposed tariffs, including a 50% levy on copper and a 200% tariff on pharmaceuticals, have raised concerns about potential impacts on global trade dynamics.

Derren Nathan, head of equity research at Hargreaves Lansdown, noted that copper and pharmaceuticals have traditionally been exempt from import charges, adding uncertainty to the market as details about potential semiconductor tariffs remain unclear.