2345 GMT - Metcash keep its bulls at UBS despite what the investment bank's analysts say is a soft near-term earnings outlook. The analysts cut their fiscal 2027 EPS forecast by almost 15%, pointing to rising costs and continued pressure on retail margins at the supermarket supplier's hardware and tools division. They tell clients in a note that they also see risk around Metcash's plans to own more of the sales at the IGA supermarkets it services. The move would be positive for margin and cash realization, but requires capex and retail skills that Metcash would have to prove. UBS keeps a buy rating on the stock and raises its target price 2.9% to 3.40 Australian dollars. Shares are at A$3.12 before the open. (stuart.condie@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

June 22, 2026 19:45 ET (23:45 GMT)

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