BROKERWATCH Iberia upped to 'buy' vs 'hold' at Citigroup; target up to 2.5 euros
LONDON, Aug 08, 2008 (Thomson Financial via COMTEX) -- By Staff Reporter
Company: British Airways, PLC (BAIRY)
Citigroup has upgraded Iberia S.A. to 'buy' from 'hold', while raising its price target to 2.5 euros from 1.8 euros, dealers said.
In a note, the broker said the upgrades incorporate expected merger synergies with British Airways.
It cites its previous note earlier this month, in which it said there could be 20 percent value creation for Iberia from any merger with BA.
Citigroup thinks BA offers Iberia a strong global network to North America, the Middle East and Asia, a large and loyal customer base, and an entrenched position at London Heathrow.
In return, Iberia offers BA the largest Latin American network, growth opportunities, a strong balance sheet, competitive cost base, a strong management team and 120 million pounds of slots at Heathrow.
Citigroup adds that combined revenue could rise by 1 percent, with non-fuel costs falling by 3 to 5 percent by 2015. hannah.benjamin@thomsonreuters.com hmb/ra
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Company: British Airways, PLC (BAIRY)
Related terms: asia, london, merger, north america, note, revenue
