We remain concerned about the sustainability of performance. |
While 2006 earnings targets appear achievable, we are concerned with the projected sustainability of volume and margins at the core Auto division. Fiat is not alone in lowering costs within its industrial base. Rival volume makers such as VW, Renault, Peugeot-Citroen, GM and Ford will also make significant restructuring improvements. In addition, Japanese and Korean market share gains are set to accelerate, putting manufacturers like Fiat on the hot seat. |
While our forecasts are conservative and anticipate additional losses in the courtroom for MRK, our operating assumption is that MRK can handle a multi-billion settlement without a major impact on its fundamental business outlook. |
With a weakening hedging profile, fuel costs will continue rising, and a slowing pace of saving on other costs will likely keep a lid on expectations for profitability. |
With this overlap in mind, (takeover) interest from third parties may well be limited. |
Without deferred tax credits, Hutchison needs to book exceptional gains this year to keep profits firmly in the black. We hope that this spurs the company into more corporate activity. |