Daily FNArena News - Australia

It has become a popular theme among investors: do beaten down services providers now provide value opportunities or not? The FNArena editor responds to questions.

A wrap of the day’s activity on the Australian stock market.

The way ahead looks familiar for Wesfarmers. The high road is Coles, Bunnings and Kmart. Centre line is Officeworks, Insurance. The low road is Target, Coal and Chemical/Industrial divisions.

Austbrokers has acquired two more insurance agencies, adding to a division that’s expected to write over $210m on an annualised basis.

Low interest rates are underpinning the strength in Australian Real Estate Investment Trusts (AREITs). This story hasn’t played out in full just yet.

A wrap of the day’s activity on the Australian stock market.

The sharp sell-off in Australian equities has brought into question the potential overvaluation of the market as a result of the runaway yield rally. Brokers discuss their views.

Technology One has defied the downturn in spending and produced a robust first half result. Brokers look forward to further cloud-based initiatives.

The weather has proven a thorn for David Jones, as will competitor discounting. As sales continue to decline, DJ’s new margin push remains under threat.

A wrap of the day’s activity on the Australian stock market.