Broker tips: Stanchart, Intertek, Ophir Energy

5th Mar 2013 16:00

Analysts at Credit Suisse expect shares of Intertek to gain, as margins recover in the second half of the year. Hence, they have lifted their target on the firm's stock to 3,850p from 3,550p before, while reiterating their outperform rating.The Swiss broker is forecasting that the quality and safety services outfit will see its rate of revenue growth weighed down in the first half of the year by continued weakness in Minerals (circa 5% of sales) and tough comparables."However, as growth accelerates in the second half, and aided by further BPO efficiencies and European restructuring, Intertek appears well placed for further material margin expansion," their analysts add. As well, Intertek is expected to be a significant beneficiary from weakness in the Sterling/US dollar exchange rate, which affects approximately 55% of its sales and 65% of the company's profits."Quality results from a quality bank. STAN [StanChart] is our top pick. Buy." That was Ian Gordon from broker Investec this morning. The broker reiterated its "buy" recommendation for Standard Chartered after the bank unveiled "quality" results on Tuesday morning. The lender's normalised earnings per share were 225.2 cents, or 2% ahead of consensus, while its revenues were bang in-line. Gordon then goes on to add that "the dividend per share is up a massive 10.5% to 84 cents - in line with us, 3.0% ahead of consensus."He added: "The outlook statement is reassuringly robust. In 2013 we believe that delivery against the 'usual' targets of double-digit revenue growth, flat jaws and double-digit EPS growth will be a breeze. Standard Chartered targets mid-teens stated return on equity in the medium term - we expect return on tangible equity to hit 15% in 2013. Such performance metrics have no comparator group!"The group also reitered its 1,900p target price for StanChart, explaining that "as a unique, top-line led, high growth stock we regard the valuation as undemanding."Broker Nomura has today given FTSE 250 listed oil&exploration outfit Ophir Energy a new price target of 727p (down from 750p), reflecting a 3% dilution from the placing.However, Tom Robinson, the analyst who authored the research note from the aforementioned broker, commented that a proposed placing and rights issue at Ophir Energy "provides visibility on financing."More specifically, he explained that "Nonetheless, if successfully completed it: 1) Removes an overhang which has seen the shares decline circa 15% Year-to-date (Peer group SXEP: -2.5%); 2) Leaves Ophir fully funded to at least mid-2014 on current equity levels; and 3) Places Ophir in a stronger negotiating position to complete asset farm-downs on favourable terms and add to the current E&A program." His recommendation to clients remains buy.