LONDON (ShareCast) - The trading environment is far from ideal, but Marston’s has a solid business model and, with £200 million of firepower, it is well-placed to use the situation to its strategic advantage. The shares, off 9¾p at 196¼p, are worth hanging on to, says the Times.
The Independent also says hold, though it adds that if the economic crisis continues to shake consumer confidence, drinkers and diners are going to choose to stay at home rather than spend the evening in a Marston's pub.
Mothercare is clearly more resilient than other retailers – births don’t fall in a downturn – and May’s update on the overhaul of its property portfolio could bring further gains. However, with the shares having risen a third since December to 415p, or 13 times current-year earnings, short-term investors may wish to take profits, says the Times.
Rank is likely to need more than a new FD to flourish, and even after yesterday's falls, the Telegraph sees no reason to buy in now.
SMG is in transition and is making small steps. It has a long way to go, and investors probably need a bit more reassurance before buying. Cautious hold, says the Independent.
With Afren’s first oil – an expected 15,000 barrels a day from the Okoro Setu field offshore Nigeria – not due to flow until next month, the company remains at a critical stage of its development. However, given a planned move to the main market – where it could enter the FTSE 250 – and firepower for further deals, sentiment is likely to remain behind the shares, up 1¼p at 128p. Buy on weakness, writes the Times. The Telegraph also says buy.
Ambrian Capital is undergoing a transformation, which it hopes will result in the company being viewed as an investment bank rather than as a fund manager. There is genuine progress being made with the firm's changes, but investors may be wise to avoid all financial services shares for the time being. Hold, says the Independent.
Please note: Digital Look provides a round-up of news, tips and information that is impacting share prices and the market. Digital Look cannot take any responsibility for information provided by third parties. This is for your general information only as not intended to be relied upon by users in making an investment decision or any other decision. Please obtain a copy of the relevant publication and carry out your own research before considering acting on any of this information.
