…and some to hold, avoid or sell
Anglo American Sharecast
Jefferies has downgraded the miner following rival BHP’s abandoned £39bn pursuit last week, and slashed its target price from £32 to £27 – citing economic risk and regulatory concern about its demerger/disposal programme. Hold. £24.90.
Fevertree Drinks
Sharecast
Market research and “demand normalisation” have prompted Goldman Sachs to downgrade the tonic-maker. Sales growth is expected to be below consensus in the US and to remain soft in the UK. Sell. £11.80.
Severn Trent Investors’ Chronicle
The water utility has hit its leakage reduction targets as it continues a costly infrastructure rebuild. Political risk rises in an election year, and debt remains a problem, but falling inflation helps. Hold. £24.02.
Tate & Lyle Investors’ Chronicle
The food ingredients firm has recorded a “handsome” profits rise, despite falling volumes. Still facing headwinds, but the sale of its remaining stake in the Primient joint venture will aid long-term strategy and fund a buyback. Hold. 702p.
Victorian Plumbing Group Investors’ Chronicle
Margins are up at the online bathroom products retailer, thanks to higher own-brand sales and lower shipping costs. The acquisition of rival Victoria Plum will boost market share but hit profitability until cost-cuts are finalised. Hold. 94p.
Wizz Air
Investors’ Chronicle
The airline’s first profit in four years was a “formality”, given a 21% uplift in passenger numbers and fleet efficiencies. But while shares may still look a bargain, the balance sheet is weak. Sell. £20.84.