Daily FNArena News - Australia

The fall in the December quarter CPI has led economists to suggest the RBA will not raise rates next month, but will rather take to the sidelines with a watchful eye.

Improved performance in its key essential mail division allowed HPAL to beat earnings expectations, but upgrades to forecasts have not led to upgraded ratings.

UBS analysts point out that Alumina Ltd is already trading below its NPV and replacement cost, but cost blow-outs for Alcan imply even greater value.

News Corp will be added to Macquarie’s recommended list shortly, a source tells us.

Austock suggests any sale by Merck of its generic drug maker Alphapharm would lift competition in the Australian market as the new owner would move to stem market share losses.

Success story Boom Logistics has been in the doldrums of late, but Intersuisse is tipping a re-rating ahead.

Is former daytrader darling Consolidated Minerals about to fall into the hands of a Russian suitor? The West Australian thinks so. Thus far investors are lukewarm, at best.

Housing prices may not be booming across Australia but the HIA and CBA note affordability continues to decline for first home buyers.

Iluka has become a restructuring story. While long term value appears to be present, the short term outlook has many risks and uncertainties.

Austock Securities sees value in Straits Resources as this year should see some better news and stronger earnings.