Member Info for BuggerTheBanks

Don't know for certain, but I bet something is going on in the US: they're expecting tougher regulations over there, so I suspect there's been some sort of announcement.

I feel exactly the same way about Corbyn. There's plenty of value (& dividends) to be made in utilities, but a Labour government could see you battered. I've taken positions in IMB & BAB which, in typical fashion, have done nowt but slide ever since. Ha! Still, I think they're solid, pay well & should never go to zero (crosses fingers).

Barchid, how do you think they would weather an economic downturn? We are overdue one, after all. I know there are safer sectors, but finding value (& certainty) there is proving difficult. Usually, companies that make their money from discretionary spending will be hard hit, but I thought they might fair better than (for example) Dixons Carphone (or suchlike). I expect they would take a hit, but would hope they would prove a little more resilient than some (if admittedly not all) others.

How do you see it?

Barchid, thanks for your insight. I would readily agree that does not look good. However, the latest accounts show a net asset position in excess of £900M. Given the company's current valuation, they're trading at a significant discount to their NAV. That makes thing look a little better (IMHO), but your point is well-taken.

I remain undecided & will continue to watch from the sidelines. If they drift lower (& there is no bad news or clear reason for them doing so), I may dip a toe.

Yes, I appreciate it's already down substantially, but as this will be a new holding for me, I feel like I can pick my moment.

For those of you concerned about the debt, would you be good enough to enlighten me? It is comfortably serviceable, is it not? I like undervalued shares with sound fundamentals, a sustainable dividend & a decent outlook. I thought Marston's ticks all of those boxes, but if I'm missing something I'd appreciate a heads-up before I take the plunge. TIA.

I've been accumulating 888 shares since 2006 & believe they are currently hugely undervalued. I'm a contrarian investor & am happy to buy unloved shares with solid fundamentals. Of all of my holdings, 888 worries me the least. It actually worries me not at all, TBH.

Anyone with a long memory will remember several instances of takeover interest which the BoD were quick to reject, stating the company was worth substantially more than the price offered. At the time, I doubted this, but the price soon rose to match the expectations of the Board.

Could they fall further? Quite possibly. But is there a sound, fundamental reason for them doing so? Not on your Nellie! Buy & hold: pocket the dividend in the near term & look back on an investment that I firmly believe will double your money in 18-24 months.

Anyone else find it funny that Louis Suarez is sponsored by 888? Shouldn't that be Ate Ate Ate???