I have been following the BXB story with much interest, AIO have increased their stake considerably and once the 5% is reached will have to report its every move thereon. TOL (the sleeping giant in all this) has only 0.5%. V. interested to know the strategy of Paul Little and the mind must be working over time by our beloved mongrel to get what he wants!
Speaking of TOL, we must remember that QAN will hive off its logistics arm in a seperate vehicle. They do have extremely valuable assets that will be able to stand alone (Star Track, Air Express - JV with Aust Post, Air cargo) but what is of concern is Linfox and QAN Logistics comming together. Fierce rivalry exists and both have good quality assests. One to watch!
IAG A dissapointing result. Really, this management has no idea. No positive profit growth since 2005! Personal lines (the supposed area of strength/the bread and butter) was boosted only due to the heavy release of reserves. They say margins are still under pressure, especially in commercial lines, but so what? it comes back to being disciplined in underwriting the risks. O'Halloran put it best when he said he was sick of it and will not chase the price. Ceding the cr@p to the other insurers instead of writing the business determines the strength of ones own book of buisness. Theories can be said, but this is prime to be taken over. It needs to be managed better. One such person is Andrew Mohl. Although not as in bad shape as AMP was when he took it over, he can steer this ship to great heights given his overseas experience particularly in the U.K. He can make tough calls as AMP needed and what is needed for IAG as it expands overseas.
CHO Price at posting:
0.0¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Not Held