LONDON (ShareCast) - Investors' scepticism towards Home Retail is entirely understandable. With the cost of living rising, consumers are clearly tightening their belts and, on top of that, the weather has been playing havoc with sales at its Homebase chain.

Existing shareholders could hang on as the shares are yielding a respectable 6.5%, however, for new investors, now is not a good time to start buying. Wait for a clearer economic picture to emerge. Hold says the Telegraph.

Some brokers are still keen on estate agent Savills and remain fans of the "diversified business model". But, with signs that the general UK property market is in trouble, and will remain in trouble for the foreseeable future, it is difficult to imagine that Savills won't get dragged into the maelstrom irrespective of the business model. Sell says the Independent.

Cobham, the aerospace and defence systems group, is in unquestionably good shape, but while investors wanting a safe and steady stock should take a close look, they should be warned that there is little potential for growth. Hold says the Independent.

Sir David Howard, chairman of broker Charles Stanley insists it is fine shape. But he adds the main risk to the business remains the credit crunch, and that it is very tricky to work out what will happen from one day to the next. Investors should heed this warning. Cautious hold says the Independent.

Charles Stanley still relies on commission for the bulk of its revenue, so those convinced that Armageddon in the equity markets is still ahead of us would best avoid it. Otherwise, trading at 8.5 times forecast 2009 earnings against a sector average closer to 11, Charles Stanley looks well priced for those with patience. Buy.

Just over a year after listing, 3i Infrastructure, the quoted spin-off of the FTSE 100 private equity investor has tapped the stock market for a second time. That it has done so with ease is testimony to its track record. The $1.5trn that America has earmarked for road upgrades over the next five years underlines the potential. Given 3i’s pedigree and sound balance sheet, the shares, are a solid hold says the Times.

Shares in the crop science specialist Plant Health Care have surged nearly 70% over the past two months as investor interest has grown in companies with promising answers to looming world food shortages. But with substantial royalty payments still some way off, PHC has run far enough for now. Hold says the Times.

Dolphin Capital has six Greek residential resorts and golf course projects at various stages of the planning and construction permit approval process. Hopes for a reversal of shareholder fortunes rest on faith in Dolphin’s ability to pull off quick asset sales or cash reserves will rapidly diminish. Those who can should take profits says the Times.


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