KeyBanc Downgrades Penske Auto, Cites UK Exposure

KeyBanc analysts downgraded the shares of Penske Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: PAG) to Sector Weight from Overweight citing more downside risk than upside potential including the exposure of Britain.

As a result, the brokerage slashed its earnings forecast by 10 percent for the fiscal year 2017 citing a possible slowdown in car sales in the Great Britain apart from the Brexit decision, which would lead to forex headwinds. Aside from these, Penske Automobile would have to spend more on interest costs due to its recently completed debt offering.

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The analysts see the continuation of multiple discounts in the mid-term following the uncertain outlook from the Britain as the revenue mix was as much as 35 percent. They expect 5 percent earnings reduction from a possible fall in new car sales until the next year.

Similarly, the brokerage expects forex headwinds to impact earnings by $0.15 in 2017, while $0.10 is expected to be impacted by increased interest costs.

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