| Retailers are hoping that Black Friday sales this week will help to make up for revenue they missed out on during the lockdown, although some have already benefitted from the pent up demand that was unleashed when restrictions were eased towards the end of May and into June. Lewis Group, which owns brands that also include Beares, Best Home and Electrical and INspire, saw a surge in sales between June and September as its stores reopened. That helped it grow first-half earnings by 10% and raise its dividend by 11%, sending its shares sharply higher yesterday. It wasn't the only big gainer; Adcorp surged on the back of its interim numbers. Its shares have now quadrupled in value since it published a trading statement in the middle of last month. Still, they're worth less than half of their value a year ago. Meanwhile, digital technology company Etion jumped 27% after it released results and said it was in talks with potential buyers for some of its operating subsidiaries as it tries to unlock more value for shareholders. More on those stories to follow, along with Arrowhead's revised dividend policy and news that Consolidated Infrastructure Group has suspended its shares after going into voluntary business rescue a fortnight ago. I hope you have a good day. Stephen Gunnion Managing Editor, InceConnect
The latest from Ingham Analytics In "A blemished trading jewel?" top trader Andrew Kinsey poses an interesting question for gold bugs at a time when equity markets are getting a vaccine boost and bond yields are firming. An earlier note "Did your seatbelts go to waste?" gave a portend for gold too. Gold shares have weakened from August highs but is it time to revisit? On the gold theme this week "Added weight" looks specifically at the gold-backed ETF market and reveals some surprising statistics. | 