The Morning news update with AstraZeneca, Centamin and YouGov

FTSE 100

AstraZeneca (AZN) – announces the start of the Phase III programme for tralokinumab, a potential treatment for patients with severe, inadequately controlled asthma, developed by MedImmune, the company’s global biologics research and development arm.

FTSE 250

Carillion (CLLN) – has held meetings with a number of Balfour Beatty’s major shareholders. Is confident that, as a direct result of the merger, the cost-base of the combined group could be reduced by at least £175 million per annum by the end of 2016 and that earnings would consequently be significantly enhanced from that year. These cost savings would represent a capitalised value of over £1.5 billion before any re-rating

Rank Group (RNK) – adjusted pre-tax profits down by 4% at £62.5 million in the 12 months to June, dividend up by 10% at 4.5p per share.

Centamin (CEY) – Gold production 81,281 ounces for Q2, 9% higher quarter-on-quarter and 13% lower on the prior year period. Has declared a maiden interim dividend of 0.87 cents per share.

Small caps

YouGov (YOU) – trading for the year ended 31 July 2014 is in line with the Board’s expectations. 

Ilika (IKA) – has entered into a commercial contract with a new customer, based in the EU, for the development of battery materials. The six month contract takes the level of committed revenue for the current financial year to over £825k, which is significantly ahead of the £535k committed revenue at the same point last year.

SeaEnergy (SEA) – the growth trend continues, with new and extended contracts across all segments of the business in line with strategy.

Minera (MIRL) – posts gold sales of 5,887 ounces for revenue of $7.6 million in Q2. Loss from operations is $0.9 million.

Firestone Diamonds (FDI) – has commenced the disposal process in respect of its Botswana operations.