Market Report: Taking Stock

Azlan, the troubled computer group, held at 47.5p. There is talk of bid action with, possibly, Sherwood International, nursing predatory instincts. Azlan has had a cruel run. At one time it was one of the market's computer stars, reaching 287p. But a botched cash call, followed by accountancy problems and then a pounds 24m rescue rights issue has destroyed its appeal. In the year to April it lost pounds 14.1m against a pounds 10.5m profit in the previous year.

Internet Technology gained 6p to 61.5p after disclosing an indirect link with the giant IBM Corporation. Wave Systems, a joint venture partner, has reached an agreement which could lead to its inexpensive chips being used in PCs. Idea is to allow users to access digital content directly from their desktops.