BEST OF THE BROKERS
BHP BILLITON
The mining group’s results were largely in line, said Citigroup, with iron ore revenue delivering a surprising jump to $6bn. The broker maintained its “buy” rating with a target price of £27.00. BHP’s recent economic commentary has been cautious, though Citi conceded that investors were likely to focus on its bid for Potash Corp.
HEINEKEN
Deutsche Bank recently downgraded its status to “hold” on the brewer, saying its sales growth is among the weakest of its peers with no prospect of a big improvement. DB has raised its earnings per share estimates for the year to €2.45, but reduced its target share price to €40 pending signs of solid growth.
PROMETHEAN
Goldman Sachs repeated its “buy” recommendation on the educational technology firm, with a six-month price target of 235p. However, the broker lowered its forecasts for 2011 and 2012 in light of its more cautious macro outlook. Key risks for the firm include a slowdown in educational spending and rival products hitting sales.