Long4Life's shares soared yesterday after the lifestyle investment company started by Brian Joffe, the founder and former CEO of Bidvest, delivered a massive fall in first-half earnings accompanied by an upbeat statement. Its profit was almost entirely wiped out by the impact of Covid-19 on all its businesses. But with the doors now open again, it believes its brands are well positioned in a post-Covid environment.

Long4Life wasn't alone in its rally; Libstar, which includes a number of household favourites in its portfolio of food products, also rose on the back of a trading update that showed strong sales growth. Cashbuild, too, has benefitted from the end of lockdown restrictions and the resumption of DIY projects.

Nu-World, which flies below the radar with its sales of consumer electronics and fast-moving consumer goods, has also been dented by Covid-19 but reported a surprisingly small decline in earnings. It's short-term prognosis for the retail sector isn't great but it says wholesalers are gearing up for Black Friday and year-end sales.

Also today, UK wealth manager Quilter has reported improved fund flows despite the impact of Covid-19 and Brexit on the minds of investors. And self-storage property specialist Stor-Age has entered a joint venture in the UK as it grows its assets in that market.

I hope you have a good day.

Stephen Gunnion

Managing Editor, InceConnect

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