French and Benelux stocks - Factors to watch on Friday, July 31

Here are some company news and stories that could have an impact on markets in France and Benelux or individual stocks.

Credit AGRICOle

Credit Agricole, a French bank, posted better-than expected second-quarter earnings?Friday. This was due to growth in its retail, asset-management and investment banking businesses. The net income attributable shareholders increased 1.4% on a yearly basis to EUR2.05billion ($2.36billion), excluding an one-off gain recorded a year ago. This was higher than the EUR1.9billion analyst consensus.

EURONEXT:

Euronext, the pan-European exchange operator, reported an adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter of EUR360m, exceeding forecasts by EUR333m. This was due to growth in all businesses and diversification, which reduced reliance on volatility of markets. Non-volume revenue accounted for 58% total revenues.

SAINT-GOBAIN:

Saint-Gobain, a French building materials company, reported a first-half revenue of EUR23.595 with recurring earnings of EUR1.68 billion. It also posted organic sales growth of 3% in the second quarter and confirmed its 2026 outlook.

French outsourcing company TP announced first-half revenues of EUR4,88 billion. This was down 1.7% compared to a 'like-for-like' basis. Growth in AI powered and back-office service offset weakness in trust- and safety-related operations. The firm also confirmed its 2026 goals.

UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP

Universal Music Group, the world's largest music company, reported a second-quarter revenue totaling EUR3,29 billion. This was up 13.3% at constant exchange rates compared to last year, mainly due to the consolidation of Downtown Music, and higher streaming prices. However, net profit fell by 85%, falling from EUR222 million.

VIRIDIEN SA

Geoscience company Viridien announced a second-quarter revenue totaling $232 million with a net loss amounting to $26 million. It also confirmed its 2026 goal of generating $100 millions in net cash flow.

WORLDLINE:

French digital payments company Worldline has lowered its revenue growth forecast for 2026 to "flat to slightly positive", from "low one-digit growth". The reason given was delays in awarding contracts by banks following recent setbacks. However, its first-half EBITDA adjusted of EUR294 millions was higher than the EUR273million expectation.

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(source: Reuters)