Daily FNArena News - Australia

The trajectory of Medibank Private’s margins is worse than many anticipated, after the company flagged higher claims inflation.

While reviewing the structure of its principal operations, Iluka Resources anticipates a market deficit in zircon and tight feedstock supply should underpin a positive outlook for 2020.

Low interest rates, weak loan growth & wealth income are weighing on the major banks and brokers consider Westpac’s measures to shore up its balance sheet are prudent.

Is Macquarie Group simply being its usual conservative self, or are there real concerns about the ability to improve on the FY19 result?

Brokers remain comfortable with the FY20 outlook provided by Orica but suspect the share price already reflects an earnings recovery.

FNArena’s Monitor keeps track of corporate earnings result releases, including broker views, ratings and target price changes and beat/miss assessments.

ANZ Bank’s FY19 result confirmed the challenges faced by a banking sector that needs to find new areas of growth while grappling with narrowing interest margins.

Blackmores’ first half profit warning has sent analysts into a scramble to downgrade forecasts, but turnaround potential has been boosted by a shift in strategy.

Alacer Gold’s oxide resource expansion at Copler holds significant promise while the sulphide plant pleased brokers with steady production throughout the September quarter.

Jewellery retailer Lovisa Holdings continues to expand and invest in new markets, now operating 33 stores across the US, considered its main opportunity.