Friday tips round-up: Shell, Micro Focus International

Shares of oil major Shell are running near the top end of their recent trading range. Nevertheless, they are still attractive, according to The Times' Tempus column. The company is fully on track to meet its goal to divest $15bn in assets this year. In fact, just this week it announced its intention to hive off most of its stake in Australian outfit Woodside Petroleum for $5bn. As well, the company has filed to float various onshore and offshore pipelines in Texas and Louisisana which will eventually bring in $750m. Furthermore, it is selling a refinery in the Philippines and has signed agreements to work on new natural gas projects with Chinese companies. Hence, the firm will be able to cover its capital spending, reduce its debt and increase its dividend pay-outs from its cash flow. Any surplus will be returned to shareholders, Tempus says. Software provider Micro Focus International's latest results were not stellar but it is a reliable outfit. Its sales grew by 6.4% in the year ending in April, topping the company's own guidance by a tad. Significantly, the firm has been in recovery mode for the last three years. However, the most important aspect of its financials is the potential for further returns of cash, given its robust cash-flows. Yesterday the company moved to accelerate those returns. Broker Numis estimates the firm could either return $140m per annum until 2020 or maintain that same rate for three years while spending at least $200m on deals. There is therefore every reason to stick with the shares. They are a 'strong hold' Tempus writes. Please note: Digital Look provides a round-up of news, tips and information that is impacting share prices and the market. Digital Look cannot take any responsibility for information provided by third parties. This is for your general information only as not intended to be relied upon by users in making an investment decision or any other decision. Please obtain a copy of the relevant publication and carry out your own research before considering acting on any of this information.AB