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Important information: The value of investments can go down as well as up so you may get back less than you invest. Investors should note that the views expressed may no longer be current and may have already been acted upon. This is a third-party news feed and may not reflect Fidelity’s views.

Citi reiterates 'buy' on Centrica, ups price target after 'stellar' results

(Sharecast News) - Citi reiterated its 'buy' rating on British Gas owner Centrica on Friday and lifted its price target to 187p from 174p following the company's "stellar" results a day earlier. The bank said the results ticked boxes on shareholder returns, more efficient use of balance sheet, earnings visibility and stability, "as well as (partially) clarity on growth".

"While we wait for further details around nuclear investment opportunities (Sizewell/Hinkley), Rough and potentially other acquisitive opportunities, investors are rewarded with 16% (4% dividend yield plus 12% share buyback) guaranteed cash return in FY25, the best in the sector," it said.

"In addition, already identified investments (gas peakers and meter assets) opportunities should help to mitigate much of the void left by a normalisation of commodity prices."

Citi also said that further investments opportunities should add to earnings.

"We continue to see valuation upside, with higher net cash position, lower pension liabilities, value creative investment and credible earnings trajectory boosting our 12-month price target to 187p/share."

At 1010 GMT, the shares were up 3.3% at 148.35p.

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Important information: This information is not a personal recommendation for any particular investment. If you are unsure about the suitability of an investment you should speak to one of Fidelity’s advisers or an authorised financial adviser of your choice. When you are thinking about investing in shares, it’s generally a good idea to consider holding them alongside other investments in a diversified portfolio of assets. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns.

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