Unum Market Commentary: JSE Recovers On Bargain Hunting + Potent
Despite being down on the week, South African equity markets managed to stage a short term recovery to bounce back from it's mid-week week lows as bargain hunters sought the opportunity to accumulate. Another factor that drove the recovery was a rebound in Chinese markets following a prolonged sell-off. For the session, the All-Share Index added 0.74% while the Top 40 was higher by 0.90%. Leading the way higher was banking group Investec that announced a demerger of it's Asset Management business. This saw the stock higher by 9.3% on the day as investors welcomed the development. Also in the winning lane was South 32 and Sappi that added 4.36% and 3.84% respectively. On the downside, the selling pressure continued for Aspen Pharmacare (-17%) while UK property group Hammerson lost 1.45%. In Europe, markets were in the green as the DAX, FTSE 100 and CAC 40 added 0.57%, 0.31% and 0.46% respectively. This morning, Asian equities start the week off on the back foot, with the Hang and Seng and Shanghai Composite down over 1% however the Nikkei has bucked the trend with a 1.1% gain.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +1.84%
Industrial 25 +0.36%
Financial 15 +0.96%
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For the week ahead, there is plenty of data on the local economic calendar with SA Consumer Confidence for the third quarter being the first local release of the week tomorrow at 9am. For the rest of the week's local and international data, you may view the Unum Capital Economic Calendar here: www.unum.co.za
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In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.28% to 14.94
GBPZAR +0.20% to 19.54
EURZAR +0.18% to 17.38
Gold trades at $1199
Platinum at $793
Brent Crude Oil at $77.97
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+1.19%)
Hang Seng (-1.69%)
Shanghai Composite (-1.03%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (-0.46%)
Bovespa (+1.76%)
INMEX (+0.56%)
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Company News
Investec Limited - Investec proposed demerger and listing of Investec Asset Management business
Overview
Following the Group’s announcement on management succession made in February 2018, the Joint Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) Designates, Fani Titi and Hendrik du Toit, have been working closely with the Investec Board (“Board”) and current members of the Group executive (Stephen Koseff, Bernard Kantor and Glynn Burger) in order to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. In conjunction with this process, the Board together with the executive directors, have conducted a strategic review of the Group to ensure that it is positioned to enhance the long-term interests of shareholders, clients and employees.
Through the strategic review the Board has reached the following conclusions:
- The Group comprises a number of successful businesses operating across two core geographies, with different capital requirements and growth trajectories; and
- There are compelling current and potential linkages between the Specialist Banking and Wealth & Investment businesses, however, there are limited synergies between these two businesses and IAM.
The Board has further concluded that it is now appropriate to demerge and publicly list IAM (“the Transaction’”). The Investec Specialist Banking and Investec Wealth & Investment businesses will remain part of the Group’s current Dual Listed Companies structure (“the remaining Group”). The Board believes that this Transaction simplifies the Group and focuses IAM and the remaining Group on their respective growth paths, which will enhance the long- term prospects and potential of both businesses for the benefit of their shareholders, clients and employees
(extract from Stock Exchange News Services Announcement)
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Potential Trade Ideas
MMI
Weekly Chart View: Following a break of the downward trend line and short term price appreciation from around R16.22 to R17.66, the price has subsequently retreated to re-test the breakout level with a strong bounce off the trend line support going back to December 2015. This test also potentially creates a double bottom and an opportunity to take a buy/long position.
Coronation Fund Managers
Weekly Chart View: The price action for CML signals a medium term bottom, with the strong price action at it's year-to-date lows. Over the last 6 weeks, 5874c has been tested and a break above this level could see the share price make a bullish medium term reversal. The Relative Strength Index is signaling bullish divergence - an early technical reversal signal. This creates an opportunity to potentially take a buy/long position.
Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-0.66%)
Rio Tinto (-0.29%)
S32 (+1.73%)
FANGs
Facebook (+0.59%)
Amazon (-0.99%)
Netflix (+0.98%)
Google (-0.35%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (+2.28%)
BHP Billiton plc (+0.68%)
Glencore plc (+0.68%)
Alibaba Holdings (-0.48%)
Tencent Holdings (-3.09%)
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________________________________________
The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Please contact the Unum Trading desk for any trading related queries : 011 384 2929
J200
Unum Market Commentary: Global Equities Firmer As Dollar Weakens
On Thursday, South African equities managed to bounce back with a 0.38% gain for the All Share Index while the Top 40 Index managed to add 0.35% for the session as emerging market assets found support on the back of a weaker US Dollar driven softer inflation data which also curtailed expectations of aggressive rate increases by the US Federal Reserve. We also saw the Turkish Central Bank raise interest rates by 6.25%, helping the Lira rally which then filtered through to the Rand which saw it's best level for September, testing R14.62 on the day. Stocks that performed well included Naspers (3.31%), South 32 (2.27%) and RMI (2.24%) while Aspen Pharmacare shares experienced aggressive selling pressure as it released it's full year results which came in below expectations which it also announced the sale of it's Nutritionals business to Lactalis Group for EUR739.8 million. On the day the shares closed lower by over 17%, following a slump of at least 25% on an intraday basis. This morning in Europe, futures poit to a positive open, following through from the rebound in Asian equities.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 -0.14%
Industrial 25 +0.61%
Financial 15 +0.21%
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In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR -0.03% to 14.76
GBPZAR -0.01% to 19.36
EURZAR +0.02% to 17.26
Gold trades at $1210
Platinum at $808
Brent Crude Oil at $78.18
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+1.19%)
Hang Seng (+1.01%)
Shanghai Composite (+0.03%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (+0.94%)
Bovespa (-0.58%)
INMEX (+0.88%)
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Company News
ASPEN PHARMACARE HOLDINGS LIMITED - Reviewed provisional financial results, announcement of Nutritionals Business disposal and retraction of cautiionary
Aspen improved revenue by 3% to R42,6 billion and grew normalised headline earnings per share ("NHEPS") by 10% to 1 605 cents in the year ended 30 June 2018. At constant exchange rates ("CER") revenue was up 5% and NHEPS increased 10%.
The Group's performance was underpinned by strong operating cash flows with a conversion rate of operating profits to cash of 105% being achieved.
Lower earnings in the second half of the year than in the first half were primarily influenced by the unfavourable impact of the strengthened ZAR. At CER, revenue in the second half of the financial year was in line with that of the first half. However, the stronger ZAR in the second half resulted in ZAR reported second half revenue being lower by R1,3 billion.
Significant factors influencing performance for the year were as follows: - Underlying positive growth in Commercial Pharmaceuticals; - Strong growth in China in the first full year of operation in that country; - The inclusion for the full year of the Anaesthetics portfolios acquired during the course of the prior year and the margin benefit of the residual rights to the Astra Zeneca ("AZ") Anaesthetics acquired with effect from 1 November 2017; - A decline in manufacturing revenue and profitability; and - Additional operating expenditure related to the development of structures in China and Japan.
DIVESTMENT OF GLOBAL NUTRITIONALS BUSINESS TO LACTALIS FOR EUR739,8 MILLION
With reference to Aspen's announcement of 29 January 2018, wherein Aspen advised that it had undertaken a strategic review of its Global Nutritionals Business predominantly carried on in Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia Pacific under the S-26, Alula and Infacare brands ("Nutritionals Business") and its cautionary announcement of 11 September 2018, Aspen is pleased to announce that it has concluded an agreement to divest of its Nutritionals Business to the Lactalis Group, a leading multinational dairy corporation' based in Laval, France, for a fully funded cash consideration of EUR739,8 million/R12,9 billion (translated at ZAR17,4/EUR) ("the Transaction").
The Lactalis Group is a privately owned, global leader in the dairy industry with revenue of EUR18,4 billion, sales in over 200 countries, approximately 80 000 employees and 246 industrial plants in 47 different countries. Lactalis' strategic intent is to develop a global infant nutritional business to complement their existing global product range. The transaction is considered to be a compelling opportunity for the transferring Aspen employees, as well as the shareholders of both Aspen and Lactalis.
In terms of the Transaction, the disposal of the Nutritionals Business will comprise the following elements: - Intellectual property and any related goodwill presently owned by: - Aspen Holdings and Pharmacare Limited in respect of the South African and Sub-Saharan Africa Nutritionals Businesses; and - Aspen Global Incorporated in respect of the Latin American and Asia Pacific Nutritionals Businesses; - Tangible assets (including plant, leased immovable property, equipment, associated fixed assets and inventory) presently owned by various Aspen Group companies in respect of the South African, Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin American Nutritionals Businesses; - Product registrations and retail registrations relating to Aspen's nutritional products; - Shares in companies conducting Aspen's Nutritional Business across Asia Pacific (including the acquisition of shares held by joint venture partners in New Zealand and Hong Kong); and - Transfer of dedicated Nutritionals staff employed within each of the geographical regions.
Rationale Aspen's disposal of the Nutritionals Business will allow the Aspen business units in Asia Pacific, Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa to dedicate all of their time and attention to their core pharmaceutical businesses. This heightened focus is expected to drive increased business efficiency and performance.
Aspen believes that Lactalis' entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to develop a leading global position in infant nutrition will provide the Nutritionals Business and the transferring Aspen employees with exciting future opportunities for growth and development.
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (+1.63%)
Rio Tinto (+1.22%)
S32 (+1.63%)
FANGs
Facebook (-0.40%)
Amazon (-0.01%)
Netflix (-0.49%)
Google (+0.90%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (+1.66%)
BHP Billiton plc (+0.17%)
Glencore plc (+1.49%)
Alibaba Holdings (+2.52%)
Tencent Holdings (+2.04%)
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The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Please feel free to contact the Unum Trading desk for any trading related queries : 011 384 29 29
Unum Market Commentary: JSE and USA Closes Weaker While Asia Buc
South African equity markets continued to trade with a downside bias, this time being held back by financial sector as stocks such as Firstrand, Standard Bank and Absa fell sharply. For the session, the All Share declined by 0.40% while the Top 40 index shed 0.45%. On the upside, winners included British American Tobacco benefited as the US Food and Drug Administration announced that that they have given JUUL and four other makers of flavored e-cigarette 60 days to submit plans to curb the use of their products by youths or risk having them pulled from the market. This came as a positive for the BTI share price which closed the session 5.26% higher. In Europe, markets closed in the green with the DAX, FTSE100 and CAC40 adding 0.52%, 0.55% and 0.92% respectively. Overnight, US markets closed weaker, while this morning Asian equities are bouncing back strongly on the back of a slightly weaker US Dollar. With Tencent having been oversold and showing signs of recovery in the US last night, the stock is up nearly 3% in Hong Kong today, which increases the likelihood of a firmer open on the JSE today. The ALSI, having traded at the bottom of the range, could find support and rebound at this range low.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +0.77%
Industrial 25 -0.60%
Financial 15 -1.36%
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It's a data-heavy Thursday on the international economic calendar, with Australia having reported strong job growth, while later we also have releases out of the UK, Eurozone and USA. You may view the Unum Capital Economic Calendar by clicking on this link: www.unum.co.za
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In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR -0.03% to 14.95
GBPZAR -0.08% to 19.50
EURZAR -0.01% to 17.38
Gold trades at $1210
Platinum at $803
Brent Crude Oil at $79.30
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+0.90%)
Hang Seng (+1.17%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.03%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (+1.99%)
Bovespa (+0.63%)
INMEX (+0.88%)
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Company News
QUANTUM FOODS HOLDINGS LIMITED - Trading Statement
In terms of the Listings Requirements of the JSE Limited, a listed company is required to publish a trading statement once it is satisfied that a reasonable degree of certainty exists that the financial results for the period to be reported on next will differ by at least 20% from the financial results for the previous corresponding period.
Shareholders are hereby advised that for the twelve-month period ending 30 September 2018, a reasonable degree of certainty exists that:
• headline earnings per share (HEPS) of the Company will be at least 219% or 107.5 cents per share higher than reported in the comparable period; and
• earnings per share (EPS) of the Company will be at least 181% or 100.6 cents per share higher than reported in the comparable period.
This implies that for the twelve months ending 30 September 2018:
• HEPS is expected to be at least 156.5 cents per share, compared to HEPS of 49.0 cents per share reported in the comparable period ending 30 September 2017; and
• EPS is expected to be at least 156.3 cents per share, compared to EPS of 55.7 cents per share reported in the comparable period ending 30 September 2017.
HEPS for the first six months of 2018 was 82.5 cents per share and EPS for the first six months of 2018 was 82.4 cents per share. Earnings expected for the second six months of the 2018 financial year compared to the first six months of the 2018 financial year was impacted by:
• Continued high levels of profitability in the egg business, although margins declined with an increase in feed costs and a decline in egg prices;
• Proceeds of R22 million, received from insurers compensating partly for the Avian Influenza losses that occurred in 2017 and in the first half of 2018;
• Slightly weaker margins in the feeds and broiler farming businesses; and • Improved contribution from the other African operations benefiting from the favourable trading conditions.
A further trading statement will be issued as soon as there is a reasonable degree of certainty as to the likely range within which the Company’s HEPS and EPS is expected to increase.
Shareholders are advised that no further incidents of Avian Influenza have been experienced. Shareholders are reminded that an outbreak of Avian Influenza before the end of the reporting period could have a significant impact on the expected HEPS and EPS reflected in this trading statement. The results for the twelve months ending 30 September 2018 is expected to be published on SENS on or about 29 November 2018.
The financial information on which this trading statement is based, has not been reviewed or reported on by the Company’s external auditors.
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (+1.03%)
Rio Tinto (+1.96%)
S32 (+1.51%)
FANGs
Facebook (-2.37%)
Amazon (+0.14%)
Netflix (+3.94%)
Google (-1.55%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (+1.29%)
BHP Billiton plc (+1.44%)
Glencore plc (+2.86%)
Alibaba Holdings (+2.54%)
Tencent Holdings (+2.72%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
________________________________________
The Unum Capital Trading Desk
For anty trading related queries, please contact the Unum Trading desk : 011 384 2929
Unum Market Commentary: Global Equities (Ex-USA) Ease As Trade T
On Tuesday, many traders and investors on the JSE most likely knocked off and called it a Tough Tuesday! If one looks at the scoreboard, it certainly appeared to be, with the All Share Index closing lower by 0.95% while the Top 40 Index was 1% in the red however well off the lows of the day. Leading the decline on the downside was Pepkor with a 3.26% decline (and which is approaching trend line support for a buy), MTN Group (-2.82%) and British American Tobacco (-2.80%). On the upside, shares that gained included Aspen Pharmacare (2.20%), RMI (+2.19%) and Nedbank (1.96%). Over in Europe, the DAX and FTSE100 closed slightly lower by 0.13% and 0.08% respectively while the CAC40 added 0.27%. On the day, out-performers in the Eurozone included Schneider Electric (+2.53%), Total (2.12%) and Airbus (+1.87%) while Bayer declined by 2.90%. In the United States, markets remained strong with the three major indices gaining meaningfully. This morning in Asia, indices trade at/near year-to-date lows as China seeking permission from the World Trade Organization to impose sanctions against the U.S.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 -1.62%
Industrial 25 -1.14%
Financial 15 -0.03%
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Today on the local front, we have Sacci Business Confidence at 11:30am followed by Retail Sales at 1pm. For the rest of the week's local and international data, you may view the Unum Capital Economic Calendar by clicking on this link: www.unum.co.za
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In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.29% to 15.10
GBPZAR +0.10% to 19.64
EURZAR +0.12% to 17.49
Gold trades at $1198
Platinum at $788
Brent Crude Oil at $79.31
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (-0.40%)
Hang Seng (-0.42%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.33%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (-0.99%)
Bovespa (+2.33%)
INMEX (+0.15%)
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Company News
ADvTECH ADDS MONASH SOUTH AFRICA TO GROWING HIGHER EDUCATION PORTFOLIO
In terms of section 9.15 of the Listings Requirements, shareholders are advised that ADvTECH, through its subsidiary, The Independent Institute of Education Proprietary Limited, has agreed to the key terms of a proposed transaction with Monash South Africa Limited (MSA) and LEI AMEA Investments BV, which will see ADvTECH acquiring control of the MSA business (“the Business”), as well as the related property company, Laureate SA Proprietary Limited (“the Property Company”). Finalisation of the transaction is subject to the fulfilment of conditions relating to the proposed acquisition.
Africa’s largest private education group ADvTECH, continues to consolidate its position in the tertiary education sector with the acquisition of MSA, a leading South African private tertiary education institution with students from more than 50 countries. The acquisition will bring ADvTECH’s tertiary student complement to more than 40, 000 full time and 30, 000 distance students, along with a comprehensive suite of premium programs, an extensive executive education and training portfolio, and new highly sought-after programmes such as engineering and public health.
Rationale For The Transaction:
MSA, a joint venture between the prestigious Monash University and Laureate Education, Inc., the world’s largest private higher education network, offers a world-class education environment, with a strong track record for outstanding pass rates, qualification completion times and student employability, which perfectly complements ADvTECH’s existing offering. MSA’s reputation for academic excellence aligns with ADvTECH’s values and will support its growth strategy. The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE), ADvTECH’s higher education division, together with its existing brands Varsity College, Rosebank College and Vega and now MSA, positions us well to further develop our reputation as a leading private Higher Education provider.
The MSA campus, located on Johannesburg’s West Rand, is one of the largest private higher education precincts in the country. With a capacity for 6 500 students, it boasts extensive sports facilities, laboratories and 4 student residences, creating a university-like environment for students drawn from across the continent.
Prof. Alwyn Louw, CEO and Academic President of MSA, says MSA is excited about becoming part of ADvTECH, as well as the opportunities that a new steward with local insights, views and experiences will bring to the development of high-quality education for South Africa.
Commenting on the transaction, ADvTECH Group CEO Roy Douglas said: “We are delighted with the addition of MSA to our existing high-quality academic offering and look forward to integrating it into the group following the finalisation of regulatory and competition commission approval processes. MSA’s track record of academic excellence, along with its growth prospects, aligns perfectly with the strategic imperatives of ADvTECH.”
“Organic growth is a key measure of our business, and together with acquisitions that add value to our existing portfolio, form an important part of our strategy,” Douglas says.
This transaction follows a number of other recent acquisitions by ADvTECH in the Tertiary Education sector, including Capsicum Culinary Studio, The Private Hotel School and Oxbridge Academy.
EFFECTIVE DATE AND CONDITIONS PRECEDENT:
The transaction will become effective once all the conditions precedent to the offer have been met.
Conditions Precedent include the approval of the Competition Commission, approval of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the Council on Higher Education (CHE), and any exchange control approvals which may be required in terms of the Exchange Control Regulations. All things being equal, it is expected that the Effective Date will be on or about 1 January 2019. Shareholders will be advised accordingly.
TRANSACTION CONSIDERATION & OTHER TERMS:
The transaction consideration will entail an amount of R343 million, plus cash on hand and working capital adjustments at Effective Date. In order to not fall foul of Section 9.8(d) of the Listings Requirements regarding being deemed a Category 1 transaction, a maximum consideration of R500 million has been agreed, however, based on current estimates of likely working capital adjustments, the final consideration is expected to be well below the maximum.
NET ASSETS & ATTRIBUTABLE PROFITS:
As at the audited last year end being 31 December 2017, the combined Net Asset Value (“NAV”) of the Business and the Property Company was R330 million.
The consolidated pro forma results of the business being acquired reflects a profit after taxation for the year ended December 2017 of R9,6 million. Significant synergies have already been identified and are expected to benefit the enlarged group. This forward looking statement has not been reviewed nor reported on by the Company’s external auditors.
MOI:
Laureate South Africa, the related property company will become a subsidiary of The Independent Institute of Education, a major subsidiary of ADvTECH. The MOI will be amended so as to conform to Schedule 10.21 of the Listings Requirements, as required.
CATEGORISATION OF THE TRANSACTION:
For purposes of categorisation, the transaction is deemed a category 2 transaction, given the maximum cash consideration payable, or potentially payable in terms of the agreed terms.
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-0.61%)
Rio Tinto (-1.01%)
S32 (+0.28%)
FANGs
Facebook (+1.07%)
Amazon (+2.48%)
Netflix (+2.16%)
Google (+1.27%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (+0.16%)
BHP Billiton plc (-1.24%)
Glencore plc (-1.32%)
Alibaba Holdings (+0.70%)
Tencent Holdings (+0.32%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
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The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Please feel free to contact the Unum Trading desk for any trade related queries : 011 384 29 29
Unum Market Commentary: JSE Declines As Trade Fears Linger; Asia
South African equity markets started the week on a softer note as fears around trade between the United States and China continued to weigh on global sentiment. For the session, the All Share Index finished lower by 0.62% while the Top 40 declined by 0.57%, lead lower by Tiger Brands (-2.29%), Shoprite (-2.24%) and Bidvest (2.09%). On the upside, winners included Hammerson (2.33%), South 32 (2.19%) and Nepi Rockcastle (+1.23%). Over in Europe, the week got off to a positive start with the DAX, FTSE100 and CAC40 adding 0.22%, 0.02% and 0.33% respectively while indices in the US fared better than their Asian counterparts. This morning in Asia, equities are in the green, with the Nikkei leading the pack.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +0.11%
Industrial 25 -0.72%
Financial 15 -0.98%
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Coming up today is SA Manufacturing Production while on the international front major highlights include UK Unemployment. For the rest of the week's local data, you may view the Unum Capital Economic Calendar here: www.unum.co.za
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In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR -0.07% to 15.18
GBPZAR +0.06% to 19.80
EURZAR +0.00% to 17.61
Gold trades at $1198
Platinum at $789
Brent Crude Oil at $77.50
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+1.13%)
Hang Seng (-0.04%)
Shanghai Composite (+0.30%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (-1.19%)
Bovespa (+0.03%)
INMEX (-0.41%)
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Company News
AVI Limited - Results for the year ended 30 June 2018
Key Features
- Profit growth in a challenging demand environment
- Carefully balanced value versus volume across key categories
- Revenue up 1,9% to R13,44 billion
- Gross profit margin recovery in line with easing of Rand driven cost pressures
- Operating profit up 7,0% to R2,55 billion
- Cash generated by operations up 16,1% to R2,69 billion
- Capital expenditure to grow and sustain our businesses of R419,9 million
- Return on capital employed increased to 28,7%
- Headline earnings per share up 7,0% to 543,1 cents
- Final dividend of 260 cents per share, total normal dividend up 7,4% to 435 cents per share
- Special dividend of 250 cents per share
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-1.15%)
Rio Tinto (+1.40%)
S32 (-0.86%)
FANGs
Facebook (+0.70%)
Amazon (-0.67%)
Netflix (-0.08%)
Google (-0.21%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (-0.73%)
BHP Billiton plc (-0.29%)
Glencore plc (-1.76%)
Alibaba Holdings (-3.70%)
Tencent Holdings (-0.96%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
________________________________________
The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Please feel free to contact the Unum Trading desk for any Trading related queries : 011 384 29 29
Unum Market Commentary: Global Stocks Mixed
On Friday, South African equity markets were stable, holding near the lows of the week and continuing to trade within a tight, two-day range. For the session, the All Share closed 0.05% higher at 57130, while the Top 40 index was in the green by 0.12%. Supporting the positive close was Naspers (+2.61%), Discovery Holdings (+2.27), Firstrand (+2.23%) and Tiger Brands (1.94%) while shares that brought balance were the miners as Anglo American, BHP Billiton and Glencore closed lower by 4.18%, 3.38% and 3.36% respectively. Over in Europe, stocks were mixed, with the DAX and CAC40 gaining by 0.04% and 0.16% respectively while the FTSE 100 was lower by 0.56%. In the United States, stocks finished lower with the Dow Jones Industrial Average leading the way down, losing 0.31%. This morning Asian stocks are being weighed down by fresh concerns of an additional $267bn of tariffs being imposed on China by the United States.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 -2.64%
Industrial 25 +0.92%
Financial 15 +0.44%
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For the week ahead, there is plenty of data on the local economic calendar with Manufacturing Production kicking off tomorrow at 1pm. For the rest of the week's local and international data, you may view the Unum Capital Economic Calendar here: www.unum.co.za
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In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.28% to 15.27
GBPZAR +0.20% to 19.72
EURZAR +0.18% to 17.63
Gold trades at $1298
Platinum at $779
Brent Crude Oil at $77.27
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+0.15%)
Hang Seng (-0.85%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.63%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (-0.46%)
Bovespa (+1.76%)
INMEX (+0.56%)
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Company News
Tiger Brands - Changes to the Board of Directors of Tiger Brands
In compliance with section 3.59 of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements, shareholders are advised that Mr Rob Nisbet has stepped down as independent non-executive director of the Company with effect from today, 7 September 2018. He accordingly also steps down as a member and chairman of the Audit Committee, as well as a member of the Investment and Risk & Sustainability Committees of the Company. Rob has served on the Board of Tiger Brands since 1 August 2010. The Board would like to thank Rob for his significant contribution to the Company and wishes him well in his future endeavours
African Rainbow Minerals - Provisional results for the year ended 30 June 2018
Salient features
- Headline earnings increased by 51% to R4 814 million (F2017: R3 196 million), which includes a net fair value gain of R977 million. The net fair value gain is due to a change in the net present value of loan repayment cash flows as a result of restructuring the ARM coal debt. Excluding the net fair value gain, headline earnings are up 20% compared to F2017.
- Headline earnings per share were 2 526 cents compared to 1 684 cents in F2017.
- Final dividend of 750 cents declared. A maiden interim dividend of 250 cents per share was paid for the first half of the financial year (1H F2018). The cumulative dividend for F2018 is 1 000 cents per share (F2017: 650 cents per share).
- Basic earnings were R4 562 million (F2017: R1 372 million) and include the net value gain of R977 million as a result of the restructuring of the ARM Coal debt. F2017 included attributable impairments of the Nkomati Mine and Modikwa Mine assets of R711 million and R734 million after tax and non-controlling interest, respectively.
- US Dollar prices realised for most commodities were higher except for iron ore, platinum and chrome concentrate prices.
- ARM and Glencore successfully concluded the restructuring of the ARM Coal debt which improves ARM and ARM Coal's obligations in terms of this debt.
- The disposal of ARM and Vale's 80% interest in Lubambe Mine was completed on 22 December 2017.
- Dividends received from the Assmang joint venture were R3 000 million (F2017: R2 488 million).
- The consolidated financial position improved by R2 266 million to net cash of R995 million (net debt of R1 271 million as at 30 June 2017).
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-0.16%)
Rio Tinto (-0.80%)
S32 (+2.01%)
FANGs
Facebook (+0.31%)
Amazon (-0.32%)
Netflix (+0.64%)
Google (-0.54%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (-1.77%)
BHP Billiton plc (-1.67%)
Glencore plc (+2.68%)
Alibaba Holdings (+1.56%)
Tencent Holdings (-0.13%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
________________________________________
The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Please feel free to contact the Unum Trading desk for any trading related queries : 011 384 29 29
Unum Market Commentary: Recession Realities Hit JSE; Rand SlidesOn Tuesday, the reality of South Africa's economic challenges manifested itself in the data set released by Statistics South Africa which showed that the economy contracted by 0.7% for the second quarter of 2018, following on from a 2.6% contraction in the first. Immediately following the release, weakness was seen in the Rand which saw a sharp sell-off from 15.02 to 15.21 versus the US Dollar. This weakness continued throughout the day with the local unit reaching a low of R15.38 versus the greenback by 8pm Tuesday evening. As a result of the poor GDP print and subsequent currency slump, shares with widespread South African exposure saw sharp declines. These shares included Bidvest (-6.60%), Firstrand (-5.00%) and Vodacom (4.54%) while MTN (-17.05%) saw sharp losses on the back of fresh claims out of Nigeria. Benefiting from the weaker currency was Kumba Iron Ore (4.69%), Mediclinic International (2.45%) and British American Tobacco (+2.37%). On European markets, declines were seen across the board with the Euro Stoxx 50 index shedding 1.06% on the day, dragged down by luxury goods retailer LVMH (-3.51%) and semiconductor producer ASML (-3.20%). This morning, the Dollar starts on the back foot while Asian equities are down over 1% on average.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +0.55%
Industrial 25 -1.75%
Financial 15 -3.10%
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Join the Unum Trading Desk on Friday 7 Sep 2018 starting at 14:15 as we look to trade the EURUSD Forex pair on the NFP data. t.me
________________________________________
In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR -0.25% to 15.30
GBPZAR -0.23% to 19.67
EURZAR -0.17% to 17.74
Gold trades at $1198
Platinum at $778
Brent Crude Oil at $77.83
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (-0.30%)
Hang Seng (-1.67%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.92%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (-4.10%)
Bovespa (-1.94%)
INMEX (-1.18%)
________________________________________
Company News
Steinhoff International Holdings N.V - Sale Of Interests In The Poco Furniture Group
On 26 April 2018 the Group announced that it had agreed in principle a settlement of the German litigation proceedings between the Group and entities controlled by Dr Andreas Seifert (the “Seifert Entities”). It was noted in the 26 April 2018 announcement that the Seifert Entities had offered to acquire the Group’s remaining 50% interest in the POCO furniture group (“POCO”).
The Group’s subsidiary LiVest GmbH (“LiVest”) holds the Group’s shares in POCO and has today entered into a sale agreement with the Seifert Entities by which the Seifert Entities will acquire LiVest’s shares in POCO and certain related properties for a total consideration of €270.685 million (the “POCO Sale”). In addition, the POCO business will retain debt of approximately €140 million, with no recourse to the Group. The closing of the POCO Sale is subject to typical conditions precedent including German and Austrian competition and merger control provisions. Closing of the POCO Sale shall bring the German litigation proceedings with the Seifert Entities to an end.
As noted in the Company’s Q3 2018 trading update, following the declaration of a dispute by the Pohlmann family regarding the 2015 sale of their interest in LiVest to Steinhoff, any proceeds from the sale by LiVest of its 50% share in POCO will be held in escrow while the Pohlmann dispute is finalised.
Shareholders and other investors in the Company are advised to exercise caution when dealing in the securities of the Group.
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-2.42%)
Rio Tinto (-2.48%)
S32 (-2.31%)
FANGs
Facebook (-2.60%)
Amazon (+1.33%)
Netflix (-1.11%)
Google (-1.66%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (-1.48%)
BHP Billiton plc (-1.92%)
Glencore plc (-1.81%)
Alibaba Holdings (-2.61%)
Tencent Holdings (-2.48%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
________________________________________
Please feel free to contact the Unum Trading desk for any queries : 011 384 29 29
Unum Market Commentary: Global Equities Mixed As Traders Assess
On Friday, the South African equity market continued to soften following the sharp sell-off seen on Thursday. For the session, the All Share Index closed lower by 0.23% while the Top 40 index shed 0.35%. These declines were led by South 32 (-4.17%), AB Inbev (-2.60%) and Naspers (2.51%). On the upside, Bidvest, Bidcorp and Woolworths saw strong buying activity which saw these shares gain 4.16%, 3.69% and 3.28% respectively. On the currency front, the Rand traded near it's year-to-date lows, closing the trading week at R14.68 versus the US Dollar. In commodities, Brent Crude Oil continued it's move higher, closing near it's one-month high of $78.03, while Copper continued to trade near it's year-to-date lows, finishing the trading week at $2.64. This morning, Asian markets are on the back foot with the Nikkei 225, Hang Seng and Shanghai Composite lower by 0.57%, 0.93% and 0.94% respectively.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 -0.25%
Industrial 25 -0.77%
Financial 15 +0.76%
________________________________________
Join the Unum Trading Desk on Friday 7 Sep 2018 starting at 14:15 as we look to trade the EURUSD Forex pair on the NFP data. t.me
________________________________________
In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.49% to 14.75
GBPZAR +0.26% to 19.07
EURZAR +0.49% to 17.12
Gold trades at $1204
Platinum at $786
Brent Crude Oil at $77.40
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (-0.57%)
Hang Seng (-0.93%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.94%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (+9.49%)
Bovespa (+0.36%)
INMEX (-0.16%)
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Company News
Old Mutual Limited - Unaudited Condensed Group Interim Results for the six months ended 30 June 2018
- Results from operations (RFO) of R4,848 million, up 7% (HY 2017: R4,530 million
- Adjusted headline earnings (AHE) of R5,393 million, marginally up on prior year (HY 2017: R5,359 million
- AHE per share of 112.3 cents per share, in line with prior year
- IFRS profit after tax attributable to equity holders of the parent of R10,648 million up 42% (HY 2017: R7,503 million) mainly due to the accounting effects of the sale and distribution of Quilter shares
- Declaring first interim dividend of 45 cents per share, representing 40% of AHE, in line with our dividend policy
- Declaring special dividend of 100 cents per share
- Funds under management (FUM) up 2% to R1.097 billion - Net client cash flow (NCCF) of R9.4 billion, an increase of R7.8 billion (HY 2017: R1.6 billion)
- RoNAV of 17.5%, down from 19.4% reflecting lower investment returns.
- Group solvency ratio of 164%, reflecting capital resilience of the Group
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-0.51%)
Rio Tinto (-1.20%)
S32 (-0.57%)
FANGs
Facebook (-1.08%)
Amazon (+0.52%)
Netflix (-0.89%)
Google (-1.80%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (-2.15%)
BHP Billiton plc (-1.34%)
Glencore plc (-2.90%)
Alibaba Holdings (+0.23%)
Tencent Holdings (-3.06%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
________________________________________
The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Unum Market Commentary: JSE Contagion Casualties; Equities Slip
It was "Throwback Thursday" on the JSE as the index gave back all of the week's gains due to the extended emerging market contagion. This time we (again) cried for Argentina as the central bank raised interest rates to 60% which saw it's currency plunge to an all-time low of 41.35 to the US Dollar. This impact was seen in the local unit as the Rand closed weaker by 2.5% versus the US Dollar, 2.4% versus the British Pound and 2.2% versus the Euro. Reports also surfaced that Us President Donald Trump is looking at impose a further $200bn of tariffs on China. This saw US Indices close lower on the day, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P500 and Nasdaq in the red by 0.53%, 0.44% and 0.26% respectively. On the local market, stocks were under pressure with the biggest news story of the day being MTN coming to heads with the Nigerian Central Bank with the authority suggesting that the telecommunications giant repay $8.1bn that had been "illegally" moved abroad. This saw even further contagion amongst JSE listed shares, with Shoprite and Coronation Fund Managers declining, potentially on the back of the news. On the day, the JSE All Share Index closed lower by 2.27%, while the Top 40 Index closed in the red by 2.56%. This morning, Asian markets are mostly lower with Tencent down 4.5% as the Chinese Government plans to limit the number of new online games in its push against gaming addiction.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +0.20%
Industrial 25 -4.07%
Financial 15 -1.43%
________________________________________
Join the Unum Trading Desk on Friday 7 Sep 2018 starting at 14:15 as we look to trade the EURUSD Forex pair on the NFP data. t.me
________________________________________
In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.01% to 14.72
GBPZAR +0.02% to 19.16
EURZAR -0.00% to 16.18
Gold trades at $1210
Platinum at $794
Brent Crude Oil at $78.03
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (-0.09%)
Hang Seng (-0.92%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.08%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (+5.34%)
Bovespa (-2.53%)
INMEX (-1.08%)
________________________________________
Company News
MTN GROUP LIMITED - Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) correspondence re Certificates of Capital Importation(CCIs) in Nigeria and cautionary
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) correspondence regarding Certificates of Capital Importation (CCI’s) in Nigeria and cautionary announcement MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN Nigeria) received a letter on 29 August 2018 from CBN alleging that CCI’s issued in respect of the conversion of shareholders loans in MTN Nigeria to preference shares in 2007 had been improperly issued. As a consequence they claim that historic dividends repatriated by MTN Nigeria between 2007 and 2015 amounting to $8,1 billion need to be refunded to the CBN.
MTN Nigeria strongly refutes these allegations and claims. No dividends have been declared or paid by MTN Nigeria other than pursuant to CCI’s issued by our bankers and with the approval of the CBN as required by law.
The issues surrounding the CCI’shave already been the subject of a thorough enquiry by the Senate of Nigeria. In September 2016 the Senate mandated the Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions to carry out a holistic investigation on compliance with the Foreign exchange (monitoring and miscellaneous) Act by MTN Nigeria & Others. In its report issued in November 2017, the findings evidenced that MTN Nigeria did not collude to contravene the foreign exchange laws and there were no negative recommendations made against MTN Nigeria.
MTN Nigeria, as a law-abiding citizen of Nigeria, is committed to good governance and to abiding by the extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The re-emergence of these issues is regrettable as it damages investor confidence and, by extension, inhibits the growth and development of the Nigerian economy.
We will engage with the relevant authorities and vigorously defend our position on this matter and provide further information when available. Shareholders are accordingly advised to exercise caution when dealing in the Company’s securities until a further announcement is made.
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-1.15%)
Rio Tinto (-0.67%)
S32 (-1.82%)
FANGs
Facebook (+0.99%)
Amazon (+0.21%)
Netflix (+0.80%)
Google (-1.81%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (-1.33%)
BHP Billiton plc (-1.77%)
Glencore plc (-0.60%)
Alibaba Holdings (-2.18%)
Tencent Holdings (-4.53%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
________________________________________
The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Unum Market Commentary: JSE Struggles For Direction As Rand Weig
On Wednesday, a weaker South African Rand weighed on local shares, holding the index back from a further advance. On the day, the All Share closed higher by 0.21% but really struggled to find a real direction as financial shares closed lower by 1.14% while other domestic names such as Shoprite, Bidvest and Vodacom declined by 4.23%, 2.14% and 2.03% respectively. On the upside, BHP Billiton closed at the highest level since August 2014, while Nepi Rockcastle, British American Tobacco and Glencore helped the index to remain in positive territory. In Europe, indices were mostly higher while the UK's FTSE100 saw a decline of 0.71%. In the United States, indices closed in positive territory as the S&P 500 held onto the 2900 level while the Nasdaq closed at another all-time high.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +1.59%
Industrial 25 +0.17%
Financial 15 -1.14%
________________________________________
Join the Unum Trading Desk on Friday 7 Sep 2018 starting at 14:15 as we look to trade the EURUSD Forex pair on the NFP data. t.me
________________________________________
In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.36% to 14.41
GBPZAR +0.35% to 18.77
EURZAR -0.32% to 16.86
Gold trades at $1210
Platinum at $794
Brent Crude Oil at $77.62
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+0.16%)
Hang Seng (-0.73%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.81%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (+1.46%)
Bovespa (+1.18%)
INMEX (+0.39%)
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Company News
Murray and Roberts Holdings - Audited annual provisional results for the 12 months ended 30 June 2018
Salient features
- R21,8 billion Revenue from continuing operations, increased by 2% (FY2017: R21,4 billion)
- R267 million Attributable earnings increased by 456% (FY2017: R48 million)
- 50 cents Gross annual dividend increased by 11% to 50 cents per ordinary share (FY2017: 45 cents)
- 112 cents Diluted continuing HEPS, increased by 56% (FY2017: 72 cents)
- R2 billion Cash, net of debt, increased by 11% (30 June 2017: R1,8 billion)
- R30,1 billion Order book for continuing operations increased by 12%(30 June 2017: R26,9 billion)
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (-0.08%)
Rio Tinto (-0.44%)
S32 (+0.98%)
FANGs
Facebook (-0.20%)
Amazon (+3.38%)
Netflix (-0.12%)
Google (-1.51%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (-1.83%)
BHP Billiton plc (-0.70%)
Glencore plc (-0.78%)
Alibaba Holdings (+0.17%)
Tencent Holdings (-1.11%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
For any trading related queries or advice, please contact the Unum Trading desk: 011 384 2929
________________________________________
The Unum Capital Trading Desk
Unum Market Commentary: Equities Hit Record High Global equity markets started the week on a strong note, continuing the upward momentum following comments last week by the Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell that the committee sees "gradual" interest rate increases and no clear signs that inflation would accelerating above target. Adding to the "risk-on" sentiment was the revised trade agreement between the US and Mexico as well as news that the Chinese central bank would look to support the currency. On the day, the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P500 (all time high) closed higher by 1.01% and 0.77% respectively, while the technology-heavy Nasdaq Composite index also hit a record high, topping 8000 index points for the first time ever. On the JSE, the All Share Index saw it's best level since January of this year, boosted by a strong performance out of financial shares as the Fini15 added 2.17% on the day.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +2.04%
Industrial 25 +1.06%
Financial 15 +2.17%
________________________________________
Join the Unum Trading Desk on Friday 7 Sep 2018 starting at 14:15 as we look to trade the EURUSD Forex pair on the NFP data. t.me
________________________________________
In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.48% to 14.22
GBPZAR +0.33% to 18.31
EURZAR +0.42% to 16.60
Gold trades at $1207
Platinum at $816
Brent Crude Oil at $76.48
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+0.39%)
Hang Seng (+0.26%)
Shanghai Composite (0.00%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (+1.06%)
Bovespa (+2.19%)
INMEX (+1.73%)
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Company News
Homechoice International - Interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2018 and cash dividend declaration
Financial Highlights
- Revenue up 16.1% to R1.5 billion
- Retail sales up 18.9% to R856 million
- Loan disbursements up 30.0% to R853 million
- Credit extended on digital channels up 54.7% to 39.1% of all credit
- Cash generated from operations up 37.9% to R240 million
- Headline earnings per share up 14.7% to 250 cents -
- Customer base up 5.0% to 836 000
- Interim dividend up 15.9% to 95 cents
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Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (+0.97%)
Rio Tinto (+0.75%)
S32 (+2.37%)
FANGs
Facebook (+1.61%)
Amazon (+1.17%)
Netflix (+1.61%)
Google (+1.58%)
FTSE Miners:
UK Market Closed on 27-Aug-2018
Alibaba Holdings (+3.68%)
Tencent Holdings (+1.16%)
Share Link: bit.ly/JoinUnum
________________________________________
Please feel free to contact the Unum Trading desk for any advice or trading related queries.
011 384 2929
Unum Market Commentary: Global Equities Firm As Dollar Weakens On Friday, the South African equity market continued to tick higher, buoyed by a general risk-on sentiment as well as a weaker US Dollar and lower US Bond Yields. On the day, the All Share Index added 1.02% while the Top 40 Index was higher by 1.17% lead by Pepkor, Glencore and Naspers while South 32, Standard Bank and South 32 weighed on the index.
In Europe, equity markets were higher with the EuroStoxx50 index adding 0.29%, lead by CRH and Nokia that added 1.86% and 1.37% respectively. In the US, markets ended the week on a high note with the the Dow Jones, S&P500 and Nasdaq adding 0.52%, 0.62% and 0.86% respectively. This morning equity markets in Asia are on the front foot, with the Nikkei, Hang Seng and Shanghai Composite higher by 0.85%, 2.17% and 1.43% respectively (6:25am).
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +0.98%
Industrial 25 +1.41%
Financial 15 +0.52%
Join the Unum Trading Desk on Friday 7 Sep 2018 starting at 14:15 as we look to trade the EURUSD Forex pair on the NFP data. t.me
In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +0.04% to 14.26
GBPZAR +0.09% to 18.33
EURZAR +0.10% to 16.58
Gold trades at $1212
Platinum at $791
Brent Crude Oil at $76.09
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+0.85%)
Hang Seng (+2.17%)
Shanghai Composite (+1.43%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (-5.11%)
Bovespa (+0.83%)
INMEX (-0.22%)
Company News
MMI Holdings - Trading statement for the year ended 30 June 2018
Shareholders are reminded that MMI executive management has introduced a number of recent changes to the organisation in order to focus on the practical implementation of our strategy. We have reset the business to provide a strong foundation for improved performance and future growth. We are confident that these changes will create value for shareholders in due course.
Shareholders are advised that the diluted core headline earnings per share, the group's main earnings measure to monitor the operational performance of the group, is expected to decrease by between 5 and 15 percent relative to the previous year.
The diluted core headline earnings expectation equates to a range from 170cps to 190cps for F2018, compared to 200cps in F2017. Diluted core headline earnings has been negatively affected during the period by various factors including increased investment in client engagement activities, higher expenditure in technology, and weaker persistency in Metropolitan Retail. Also, MMI’s share of losses increased, in line with business plans, on new initiatives such as the India joint venture. Momentum Corporate profits have improved with group underwriting results showing an improvement year-on- year, whilst good expense management also contributed to their improved result. Strong mortality and morbidity profits across the group boosted core earnings.
Shareholders are further advised that the group's basic earnings per share is expected to decrease by between 5 and 15 percent (to between 84cps and 94cps) relative to 98cps earned in the comparative period. Headline earnings per share is expected to show a decrease of between 15 and 25 percent (to between 89cps and 101cps) relative to 118cps for the comparative period. Basic and headline earnings have both been negatively affected by significant basis changes in Momentum Retail and Metropolitan Retail and the weak investment markets of F2017 resulting in a lower starting asset base for the current year.
Basic earnings decreased by less than headline earnings mainly due to a reduction in the impairment of intangibles compared to F2017.
Note that MMI excludes fair value gains, impairment of intangibles, movement in value of MMI shares held in policyholder funds, investment variances and non-recurring items from core headline earnings whereas basic earnings include all these items.
MMI will be releasing final results for the year ended 30 June 2018 on 5 September 2018. The forecast financial information contained in this trading statement to shareholders is based on information available at the time of publication and has not been reviewed and reported on by the Company’s auditors.
Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (+1.31%)
Rio Tinto (+0.98%)
S32 (+0.59%)
FANGs
Facebook (+1.01%)
Amazon (+0.13%)
Netflix (+5.79%)
Google (+1.28%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (+2.54%)
BHP Billiton plc (+2.17%)
Glencore plc (+3.30%)
Alibaba Holdings (+1.16%)
Tencent Holdings (+1.36%)
Please feel free to contact the Unum Trading Desk for any assistance or trading related queries.
Unum Trading Desk : 011 384 2929
Unum Market Commentary: JSE Edges Higher; Rand WeakensOn Thursday a weaker South African Rand helped to boost the All Share Index by 0.14% to close the session at 52205. Despite the slight weakness in the local currency, SA-focused shares such as Shoprite, Discovery and Capitec also advanced by over 2.5% while weakness was seen in Anglo American, Mediclinic International and British American Tobacco as the shares declined by 3.20%, 2.27% and 1.69% respectively. In Europe, equity markets were slightly softer as the EuroStoxx50 index declined by 0.02%, weighed down by shares such as Bayer and Daimler. In the US, the Dow Jones, S&P500 and Nasdaq declined by 0.30%, 0.17% and 0.13% respectively.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 -1.12%
Industrial 25 +0.53%
Financial 15 +0.44%
Join the Unum Trading Desk on Friday 7 Sep 2018 starting at 14:15 as we look to trade the EURUSD Forex pair on the NFP data. t.me
In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR -0.17% to 14.37
GBPZAR -0.21% to 18.42
EURZAR -0.10% to 16.61
Gold trades at $1193
Platinum at $780
Brent Crude Oil at $75.15
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+0.65%)
Hang Seng (-0.77%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.35%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (-1.20%)
Bovespa (-1.65%)
INMEX (-0.23%)
________________________________________
Company News
Discovery Holdings - Trading Statement
In accordance with paragraph 3.4(b) of the JSE Listings Requirements, issuers must publish a trading statement as soon as they have a reasonable degree of certainty that earnings per share and / or headline earnings per share for the next reporting period will differ by at least 20% from that of the previous corresponding period.
Shareholders are advised that: - Headline earnings per share (undiluted) for the year ended 30 June 2018 (“current period”) is expected to increase in the range of 30% to 35%, to between 888 cents and 922 cents over the prior year ended 30 June 2017 (“prior period”) (2017: 683.1 cents); and - Earnings per share (undiluted) is expected to increase in the range of 25% to 30%, to between 855 cents and 889 cents (2017: 684.2 cents) over the prior period.
It is practice for the Company to issue a trading statement on “normalised” headline earnings per share, which in management’s view best represents the underlying performance of the Group.
Accordingly, shareholders are advised that: - Normalised profit from operations is expected to increase by between 15% and 20% in the current period over the prior period to between R8.1 billion and R8.5 billion (2017: R7.0 billion); and - Normalised headline earnings per share (undiluted) is expected to increase in the range of 13% to 18%, to between 816 cents and 852 cents over the prior period (2017: 722.2 cents).
Discovery’s results for the year are due to be released on SENS on 4 September 2018.
The financial information on which this trading statement is based has not been reviewed and reported on by the Company’s external auditors.
________________________________________
Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (+0.95%)
Rio Tinto (-0.05%)
S32 (-0.15%)
FANGs
Facebook (-0.43%)
Amazon (-1.10%)
Netflix (-1.53%)
Google (-0.05%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (-2.58%)
BHP Billiton plc (+0.61%)
Glencore plc (+0.81%)
Alibaba Holdings (-3.16%)
Tencent Holdings (-1.67%)
Please feel free to contact the Unum trading desk with any trading related queries: 011 384 2929
Unum Market Commentary: JSE Higher As Local Shares AdvanceLocal equity markets continued to trade strongly on Wednesday as a weaker US Dollar helped to bring relief to the battered emerging markets, which have been under significant pressure year-to-date. On the day, the iShares Emerging Markets ETF advanced by 0.79%, continuing to bounce off the YTD lows. On the JSE the All Share Index closed higher by 1.64% while the Top 40 added 1.83%. Leading the way higher was Aspen Pharmacare and Mediclinic that added 5.95% and 4.77% respectively while Quilter and Bidcorp lost 6.83% and 2.19% respectively. In Europe, the DAX was unchanged (+0.01%), while the FTSE 100 and CAC 40 added 0.11% and 0.22% respectively.
JSE Major Sectors
Resources 10 +1.53%
Industrial 25 +2.16%
Financial 15 +1.22%
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In currencies, the South African Rand trades as follows:
USDZAR +1.61% to 14.38
GBPZAR +1.35% to 18.52
EURZAR +1.24% to 16.62
Gold trades at $1198
Platinum at $788
Brent Crude Oil at $74.60
International Markets
This morning, Asian equities are as follows:
Nikkei 225 (+0.36%)
Hang Seng (-0.35%)
Shanghai Composite (-0.38%)
Latam Markets closed as follows:
Merval 25 (+3.07%)
Bovespa (+2.29%)
INMEX (+1.18%)
________________________________________
Company News
Bidvest Group - Trading Statement
In accordance with Section 3.4(b) (i) of the JSE Listings Requirements, listed companies are required to publish a trading statement as soon as they become reasonably certain that the financial results for the period to be reported will differ by at least 20% from those of the previous corresponding period. Shareholders are advised that:
- The normalised headline earnings per share (HEPS) for the year to 30 June 2018 is expected to be between 11% and 14% higher than the prior year (2017: 1 115.4 cents), translating into normalised HEPS of between 1 238 cents and 1 272 cents. Normalised HEPS, which excludes acquisition costs and amortisation of acquired customer contracts, is a measurement management uses to assess the underlying business performance.
- The HEPS for the year to 30 June 2018 is expected to be between 10% and 12% higher than the prior year (2017: 1 108.2 cents), translating into HEPS of between 1 219 cents and 1 241 cents.
- Basic earnings per share (EPS) for the year to 30 June 2018 is expected to be between 19% and 22% lower, translating into EPS of between 1 116 cents and 1 159 cents, when compared to the previous twelve months (2017: 1 430.3 cents). This is primarily due to a contraction in the share prices of our associates, Adcock Ingram and Comair, compared to material share price increases in the prior year.
The financial information on which this trading statement is based has not been reviewed and reported on by the Group’s auditors. The Group expects its results for the year ended 30 June 2018 to be released on SENS on or about the 3rd of September 2018.
________________________________________
Aus miners:
BHP Billiton (+1.26%)
Rio Tinto (+0.43%)
S32 (+5.67%)
FANGs
Facebook (+0.59%)
Amazon (+1.14%)
Netflix (+1.90%)
Google (+0.36%)
FTSE Miners:
Anglo American plc (+0.91%)
BHP Billiton plc (+1.58%)
Glencore plc (+0.38%)
Alibaba Holdings (-0.01%)
Tencent Holdings (+0.17%)
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FoschiniWith the petrol price increasing, tax increased this year results on a lot of financial pressure on the south african consumer leaving consumers with a lower disposable income. In time of lower disposable income it is natural in an economic sense that there would be an increase on credit purchases from consumers.
With this being said. I think TFG is best positioned for a long on retailers as they reported 7% increase in credit sales together with a decrease in irrevocable debt. This gives me an indication that TFG does collect most debt and they do it quite fast as they have the highest interests rate on debitors with 19%. This is a risk management strategy they use to collect debt as soon as possible from debitors. The faster they collect debt the stornger the balance sheet and the stronger the share price should be theoretically.
Therefore, I remain bullish on the stock.
Here is what I plan to do:
Buy: 174-176
TP: 190
SL: 169
Mike sharesIPL: FY results out today, HEPS came in the middle of guidance. Dividend up, coming in at R7.10 so overall decent. Proposed unbundling has been approved by the board and will be concluded in Q4 2018.Share price is up 1.67% to R201.50 and think medium term is a buy opportunity. Will also benefit from any strength in the ZAR.
BHP Billiton: Results came out this morning, missed slightly on estimates, but announced record dividend payout of $0.63 per share, amounts to R9 at current USDZAR FX rate. Reiterated that the proceeds of the IS shale assets will be returned to shareholders once the sale has been completed. Sale was $10.8 bil, don’t think the tax will be much ( est 0.1mil ) so most of it will be returned. The sale will be completed by the end of OCT 2018, and will say how they will return it, either via share buyback or cash payment ( dividend ), I think the market will prefer the latter. Was down around 3% this morning and recovered almost half of this back. Expensive at current levels, but still think you can buy any weakness here. Obviously the GBPZAR has moved quite a bit that needs to be factored in. Target of 18pounds still comes to mind.
Shoprite: Urggh, what a disappointment, usually my preferred retailer, but trading statement was a massive disappointment, and results today came in at the lower end of the trading statement guidance. Currently down 6.5% at R198, and will need to review this one. Maybe some bottom pickers out there?
Above is the most important company results out today, so what else are we looking at in the market?
Few shares is Last Day to trade today: L2D,MIX,MND,MNP,QLT,TWR ( anyone notice how close MND came to touching R400 yesterday? Is it time to to take some off the table? )
Did anyone buy the dip on NPN? If not, shame on you, gave you a nice opportunity I think. Yeah sure Tencent slowed down for the first time in 5 years ( or something like that ), but still a massive powerhouse in my opinion. Some downgrades coming I think, but still way below most target levels.
Rhamaphoria rally is gone. So where to from now? Well stick to the names of IPL,BVT? Retailers still a sell on any strength think. Names like TRU,CLS comes to mind?
Are we seeing a bit of short covering going on in BID? Keeping an eye on this one for possible short
BAW, just buy it :-) ( We did, REMEMBER THIS IS JUST AN OPINION AND NOT ADVICE )
BLU: Getting killed once again on the back of Cell C results. Haven’t read it yet, heard something about a rights issue coming up?
Rand is stronger today, every day is like a seesaw with this one.
Obviously the market wants this trade wars going on to end now, miners will fly. Seeing more and more CEO commenting how Europe will be the main beneficiary if this trade wars continue between US and China?
Nothing else too important I’m seeing today, let me know if I've missed something dramatically?
Thanks
Michael Porter