Daily FNArena News

The worst appears behind paint products group Wattyl and brokers have revised up earnings forecasts but most remain cautious given an uncertain outlook for the Australian housing market.

Its new Sydney-Guam cable offers Pipe Network continued upside potential.

Spending by Australian businesses fell heavily in the global economic downturn but as conditions and confidence improves repaired balance sheets mean they are well placed for an upturn.

AWB has confessed exiting Brazil will cost more than expected, leaving the market largely neutral on the outlook for the stock.

Spark Infrastructure posted a better than expected interim result but capex requirements mean equity will need to be raised in coming years and this is creating a divergence in broker views on the stock.

Westpac’s bad debt concerns sparked a big profit-taking session on Friday in the market, providing debate about whether recent confidence has been overplayed.

Market expectations had been for Mortgage Choice to deliver lower earnings in FY10 but guidance from management indicates some growth.

Weekly musings from your editor. Taking a “contrarian” (value) approach can be rewarding if it is combined with a patient, longer term strategy.

Analysts no longer see why Downer should attract a PE discount.

Barclays Capital suggests markets are watching commodities for signs of a growth rebound, which would push prices higher.