On Friday, Barclays adjusted its stance on Hammerson Plc (LON:HMSO:LN) (OTC: HMSNF), downgrading the stock from Overweight to Equalweight. The firm also altered its price target, setting it at GBP2.95, a significant increase from the previous GBP0.30.
The downgrade comes despite Barclays recognizing Hammerson's positive actions in recent years, including a rights issue, the disposal of Value Retail, and a share buyback program. These measures have contributed to a re-rating of the company's shares.
Barclays notes that Hammerson's earnings growth is expected to be lower than that of Klépierre, and its earnings yield is lower compared to Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW). The firm also highlights Hammerson's scale as insufficient and points to a high cost ratio that necessitates growth. The potential for consolidation of the company's various UK joint venture structures is also mentioned.
The shift in Barclays' recommendation involves rotating out of Hammerson into Covivio, which is categorized as higher-yielding with no earnings growth. Covivio is favored for its higher earnings yield aspect, according to the analyst's comments.
The new price target of GBP2.95 reflects Barclays' updated valuation of Hammerson's stock, taking into account the company's current financial situation and market position.
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