Graham Spooner, investment adviser at The Share Centre, gives his views on the companies announcing results this week (w/c 4 April 2011).

Tuesday 5 April 2011

Enquest (ENQ.L) - Full-year results 2010

Investors will be keen to hear the company's view on the recent tax rise for North Sea producers that was included in last week's Government Budget. The steady rise in oil prices should ensure a solid set of results. Future strategy and any change in production targets may have a further impact.
BUY.
  
Wednesday 6 April 2011

Marks & Spencer (MKS.L) - Trading statement

The share price has been very volatile over the last six months as doubts over the financial health of the UK consumer continue. There has been a growing concern for the sector over recent sales levels. Marks & Spencer is viewed as a bellweather for the high street and retail investors will be hoping for signs of confidence no matter how thinly disguised.
HOLD.
  
Thursday 7 April 2011

Halfords (HFD.L) - Trading statement

Following a poor Christmas update it was hoped that sales would start to rise again in the spring. Investors will be concentrating on recent performance and hoping that demand for home car maintenance continues to buck the trend. The 20% fall in the share price this year suggests that the market remains nervous.
NO RECOMMENDATION.  

Friday 8 April 2011

Vedanta Resources (VED.L) - Full-year production results

High commodity prices and record production should lead to bumper profits. Investors will be keen to hear more about the proposed deal with Cairn India, which still awaits approval. However, information on this may be limited as these results will focus on production figures.
HOLD.