BEST OF THE BROKERS
WILLIAM HILL
Numis told investors to “hold” William Hill shares. It said the bookmaker’s plans for mobile services, social media and in-store self-service terminals could help offset pressure from the weak economic outlook. However, risks remain as its efficient core operations may leave little room to react to cyclical business pressures. Also, it warned of unknown risks from the company’s joint venture with software firm Playtech. The broker gave a target price of 200p.
KBC ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES
Brewin Dolphin has changed its rating to “buy” after the arbitration process by a competitor alleging the unauthorised use of software code was completed with all claims being dismissed as unfounded. The removal of this threat of unknown potential liability should stop share prices being held back, it said, removing the “hold” rating it has had on the company since mid-July. The target price is 78p.
HSBC
Evolution Securities advised investors to “sell” HSBC stock. It said sellside revenue expectations are too high, with insufficient growth in Asian markets to offset strategic disposals elsewhere. The broker also said that UK regulators may hit the bank with heavy capital targets across its entire global balance sheet despite its existing capital and liquidity strengths – and that HSBC may consider leaving the UK as a result. Evo gave a target price of 650p.