Affin Hwang downgrades Westports on recent price run, raises TP to RM4.22


CGSCIMB said the reclamation exercise, that will be in three phases, will first need to undergo technical discussions with the Port Klang Authority and the Transport Ministry.

KUALA LUMPUR: Affin Hwang Capital research is raising its FY19-21E earnings forecast on Westports Holdings Bhd and raising its target price to RM4.22 from RM4.20.

However, it is downgrading the counter to hold from buy given its recent share price run that resulted in lower upside.

Coming off the back of positive earnings results for 6M19, Westports' management has raised its 2019 volume growth guidance to "high single digit" from 3-5% previously. 

To recap, Wesports' 6M19 core net profit rose 25.4% year-on-year (y-o-y) to RM306.5mil on the back of 11.6% higher revenue driven by a 17% increase in container volumes. 

Westports' management attributed the strong 6M19 container volume gains to higher port calls by Ocean Alliance, market-share gains, organic volume growth and the low base effect in 6M18.

"Overall, the earnings were within consensus and our forecasts, despite the higher-than-expected container volumes," said Affin Hwang.

It added that Westports' 2Q19 core net profit was 19% higher quarter-on-quarter (q-o-q) to RM166.3mil due to seasonality.

Moving into 2H19, it expects 2H19 earnings and container volume growth q-o-q and y-o-y to be relatively muted due to a higher base effect.

Win a prize this Mother's Day by subscribing to our annual plan now! T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Business News

Industrial projects look increasingly attractive
Dutch Lady’s balancing act amid escalating costs
Demand for co-working space remains resilient
Fed dampens hopes for rate cut
F&N to use cost management measures
Changing office space requirements
Naza makes entry into green economy
CapBay aims to provide financing to more SMEs
New initiative for infrastructure needs in Perak
Ocean Fresh seeks ACE Market listing

Others Also Read