1540 [Dow Jones] STOCK CALL: JPMorgan says Centro (CNP.AU) is a complex structure, but could be untied "if cool heads prevail on all sides" and assets sold to reduce gearing. "After a healthy dose of 'sticker shock' our confidence in Centro's ability to rein in the control of its destiny from its lenders is increasing...our discussions with potential buyers of its Australian real estate indicate book value is achievable, and fast if necessary. While it's less clear, we think in the New Year it also should be able to get away the bulk of the Heritage assets in the U.S. at 85 cents in the dollar." Assuming A$6.8 billion of asset sales, a more moderate assessment of the U.S. portfolio and a dismantling of CNP's DPF and DPFI funds, CNP would generate more than 35 cents a security next FY EPS, inclusive of A$117 million of services EBIT, JPM says. Keeps Overweight, A$3.67 price target. Last trade down 16% at A$1.11. (ABH)
CNP Price at posting:
0.0¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held
