Next week's stock market outlook promises a flurry of earnings reports and insights, offering a glimpse into the financial health and strategies of several prominent companies. Here's a breakdown of what to expect from a selection of FTSE 100, FTSE 250, and other notable entities reporting in the week commencing March 9, 2026.
Sunbelt Rentals (Ashtead): Navigating a Changing Landscape
Sunbelt Rentals, formerly known as Ashtead, is set to unveil its full-year results, marking a pivotal moment in its transformation journey. The company recently rebranded and relocated its primary listing to the US while retaining a secondary UK listing. This strategic shift comes amidst a challenging market environment, with parts of the construction sector experiencing sluggish demand. However, there's optimism that 2026 could bring improved profitability, thanks to easier comparatives and a gradual recovery in trading conditions.
The focus will be on understanding how Sunbelt Rentals is navigating the softer areas of its business. Big-ticket projects like data centers and semiconductor fabs are expected to provide support, but the extent of their impact remains uncertain. Investors will be keen to gauge whether these softer markets are showing signs of improvement and whether rental pricing has further upside potential. The relocation of the main listing to the US is also likely to attract attention, as it may help bridge the valuation gap with US peers, potentially providing a boost if performance aligns.
Legal & General: Emphasizing Cash Returns
Legal & General's full-year results will be closely watched, as the company's investment case hinges on cash returns. The group's dividend remains robust, and the successful completion of the US insurance sale has bolstered its capital position. Management has already hinted at a significant buyback linked to the transaction, with the potential for £1.2 billion to be returned to shareholders. This move is likely to be a key focus, as investors eagerly anticipate how quickly excess capital will be returned.
Legal & General's bulk annuity volumes are expected to exceed initial guidance, reflecting strong demand from well-funded pension schemes. While a new strategic plan is on the horizon, shareholders will be keen to hear early indications of simplification efforts. Any signs of management's commitment to reducing complexity and refining the group's narrative could significantly boost investor confidence.
Persimmon: Building on Last Year's Progress
Persimmon's full-year results are anticipated to be relatively straightforward, given the company's January trading update. Despite a softening market ahead of the UK Budget, net private sales rates remained stable, and average selling prices increased by 4% to approximately £278,000. This performance is expected to translate into robust underlying pre-tax profits, potentially reaching the upper end of market expectations, with growth projected at around 10% to £436 million.
The focus next week will be on the outlook for demand in the second half of 2026. With interest rates expected to remain relatively stable, the emphasis will be on understanding how build cost inflation will evolve, supported by Persimmon's in-house materials businesses. The company's growing order book adds further optimism, and investors will be keen to hear if there are any adjustments to the 2026 guidance for underlying pre-tax profits, currently set between £461-487 million.
In conclusion, next week's earnings season offers a wealth of insights into the strategies and financial health of these companies. While challenges persist, the potential for growth and simplification efforts provides a compelling narrative for investors to consider.
