0312 GMT [Dow Jones] STOCK CALL: Citi analysts raise Newcrest Mining (NCM.AU) target to A$37.70 from A$34.70, says stock is its preferred gold exposure for production growth, copper leverage and exploration upside. Comes after Citi ups its gold price forecasts to US$965/oz in 2010 from US$925/oz, and to US$933/oz in 2011 from US$750/oz. Also lifts price forecasts for platinum and palladium. At same time, Citi increases Lihir Gold (LGL.AU) target to A$3.40 from A$3.00, keeps Hold rating. "LGL has growth from Lihir Island and Bonikro, but there is greater risk in delivery and the lost production growth from Ballarat could be chased through M&A," analyst says. NCM last up 2.2% at A$34.48; LGL last down 0.3% at A$3.08. (LMF)
NCM Price at posting:
$34.50 Sentiment: ST Buy Disclosure: Held
