I disabled the default opera adblock extension and installed Ublock origin and I have not seen the issue since.

Looks like the issue has been sorted with latest update: version 60.0.3255.83
Thanks opera.

It is really and annoyingly slow not to mention the screenshot icon that cannot be removed. How do I go back to the previous opera?

Since the last update when one opens a new tab it takes some time for the speed dial shortcuts to appear.

Yes. I hate those icons too esp that downloads one. I have to clear everytime for it to disappear.

I hate it too. Would love it gone.