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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.

JP Morgan reiterates 'bullish' stance on Croda

(Sharecast News) - JP Morgan has reiterated its 'overweight' rating on Croda International following strong third-quarter numbers from the speciality chemicals group. The bank flagged a number of reasons for its "bullish view".

It said: "The earnings downgrade cycle is largely behind us, with consensus estimates likely to remain stable even as much of the sector faces further cuts; improved execution in OSG delivery, operating leverage and self-help cost actions; [and] the market's pessimism on business fundamentals, particularly regarding competitive pressures and portfolio commoditisation, seems excessive to us."

It concluded: "Notwithstanding some possible near-term growth headwinds in the pharma business from the recent US policy changes, there is significant mid-to-long-term earnings upside optionality from Croda's strong pipeline of customer projects across multiple pharma segments.

"Improved earnings delivery close to the sitting consensus should likely drive a step-by-step rerating of the shares."

On Thursday, Croda reiterated its full-year outlook after third-quarter sales were bolstered by strong performances in its consumer care and life sciences divisions.

As at 0900 BST, shares in the blue chip were trading 2% lower at 2,833p, amid difficult trading across the London market.

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