BEST OF THE BROKERS
DUNELM
Altium Securities yesterday gave Dunelm Group a “buy” rating and forecasted earnings growth of about 30 per cent for 2010, partly based on the company’s reported £24m of net cash at the end of 2009, following a £30m net cash inflow the previous year. It said that Dunelm’s financial strength and capacity for expansion position it to sustain growth, and that the company has the potential to expand to nearly 250 superstores.
JD SPORTS
Singer Capital Markets yesterday upgraded its current year forecast for JD Sports Fashion by 4.8 per cent and raised its target price to 677p from 663p, noting that JD has shown a pick up in trading over the last few months, particularly in the fashion fascia. The broker added shares had been weak since the company’s interim results, but they now look to be good value again. It moved its recommendation for JD back to “buy” from “fair value.”
TRAVIS PERKINS
Collins Stewart yesterday reiterated its “buy” rating for Travis Perkins with a target price of 909p due to very high returns throughout the downturn, driven by cost-cutting, focus on cash, solid market share and pricing power. It said uncertainty remains for 2010 as UK house prices have bounced more than expected over the summer, yet a double-dip could suit Travis as the group remains well-placed to pick up any distressed assets.
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