Jet2, the London-listed leisure travel group, has announced a significant £250 million share buyback program following a robust fiscal performance. The company expects to report a profit before foreign exchange revaluation and taxation of between £565.0 million and £570.0 million for the year ended 31 March, marking a 9% increase from the previous year. This move underscores Jet2's confidence in its sustainable cash-generative business model and strong balance sheet, which boasts total cash of £3.2 billion and an 'Own Cash' balance of £1.1 billion at the end of FY25.

The share buyback initiative is set to enhance earnings per share by cancelling the repurchased shares, a strategy that has been well-received by the market. Peel Hunt analysts described the buyback as 'very positive,' highlighting the company's robust financial health. Jet2's decision reflects a broader trend among corporations with strong cash positions to return value to shareholders, albeit in a manner that favors institutional investors over private ones, especially those investing through tax-free wrappers like ISAs.

Looking forward, Jet2 is optimistic about its growth prospects, with 'on sale capacity' for summer 2025 currently 8.3% higher than the previous year, totaling 18.6 million seats. This expansion is partly attributed to the company's new bases at Bournemouth and London Luton airports, which contribute approximately 4% of the growth. Despite the positive outlook, Jet2 acknowledges the challenges posed by limited visibility and a trend towards later booking profiles in the travel sector.

The announcement has had a palpable impact on Jet2's stock, with shares climbing nearly 15% following the release of its trading statement. Analysts from RBC and Peel Hunt have lauded the company's strong return on invested capital and attractive valuation, suggesting that Jet2's integrated model and customer experience position it well for continued growth and value creation in the competitive leisure travel market.

Police in Newry are investigating a violent altercation that occurred outside the Buttercrane Shopping Centre on Francis Street on Saturday evening. The incident, which involved a group of young males, took place at approximately 5:40 pm on October 18, prompting emergency services to respond to the scene.

Three teenagers were arrested in connection with the disturbance, including two 17-year-olds and one 16-year-old. Law enforcement officials confirmed the arrests were made on suspicion of multiple offenses, including attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Two of the detained males, aged 16 and 17, have been released on bail pending further police inquiries, while the other 17-year-old was released unconditionally. The Police Service of Northern Ireland continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation that began at the shopping center and continued onto the adjacent street.

Authorities are particularly concerned about a male youth believed to have been assaulted during the incident who left the scene before officers arrived. Inspector Ritchie stated that police have concerns for the individual's wellbeing and are urging him to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage are asked to contact Ardmore police station quoting reference number 1120 of 18/10/25.