Consumer Discretionary

Brokers are worried about many things this earnings season, including life insurers, building, construction and industry, gas supply, consumer stocks, even banks.

Some brokers think the market has become too negative on Treasury Wine estates and seek out some brighter notes.

A swathe of Sell ratings suggests most brokers believe more write-downs are ahead for Treasury Wine Estates, but two brokers see a valuable underlying asset.

Pressures on retailer sales from online competition have been well flagged but it also translates to shopping centre income and yields, in BIS Shrapnel’s view.

Stockbrokers zoomed in on the upcoming federal elections and the impact for corporate Australia. Plus what will the impact be of a weaker Aussie? More tough times for retailers?

FNArena’s Treasure Chest reports on money making ideas from stockbrokers and other experts. The Reject Shop has been a victim of a weaker market and lower AUD but one broker has upgraded to Buy on strong, defensive earnings growth potential.

Analysts mostly expect a slow recovery in Australian retail spending but low income and high household cost growth has one broker arguing an even more difficult FY14 for retailers.

Bank valuations are becoming less stretched while retailers are still battling with a reluctant consumer. Telecoms are maturing and plasma is robust.

Appliance manufacturer Breville has a clear strategy for growth with options up and down the product range, and overseas.

Another quarter, another failed bid, another earnings downgrade. Billabong is increasingly in the hands of the financiers.