US: A-B gets ratings boost

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 15 January 2007

Brewing giant Anheuser-Busch has received a ratings boost from a US investment bank.

Banc of America Securities reportedly upgraded shares in the Budweiser brewing giant from 'neutral' to 'buy', citing an improved outlook on the brewer's earnings growth.

Analyst Bryan Spillane said A-B shares should finish the year at US$55, up 11% on the brewer's share price on Thursday (11 January).

"Margin factors should ease over the next 12 months and with Anheuser-Busch planning pricing for 2007, coupled with building presence in imports and crafts, we believe there is room for potential earnings upside," Spillane said in a research note.

A-B saw domestic beer volumes inch up 1.1% last year thanks to growth from Bud Light and its burgeoning stable of import beers, including Grolsch and Tiger.

The brewer will announce full-year figures on 1 February.

Sectors: Beer & cider

Companies: Anheuser-Busch, Grolsch