The Business Matrix: Tuesday 28 August 2012

G4S to overcome Olympic stumble

G4S is struggling to recover from its Olympic security fiasco and its under-pressure chief executive, Nick Buckles, will be back in the spotlight today. Scribes at Numis Securities think the world's largest security firm could still be attractive for long-term investors. Half-year earnings of £240m are expected.

Antofagasta set for earnings drop

Last week JP Morgan Cazenove upgraded Antofagasta from neutral to overweight and raised its target price from 1,220p to 1,300p. The miner's half-year results tomorrow are expected to be broadly stable. Scribes at UBS believe net earnings to be down 10 per cent year on year at $624m (£395m).

Hermès expected to bag €511m

Hermès, purveyor of silk scarves and exotic leather handbags, will update the market with its first-half results on Friday. The Paris-based fashion house revealed its second quarter sales last month which had rocketed 21.9 per cent to €815m. UBS expects earnings of €511m for the half year.

Hays to reveal six-month plan

Recruiter Hays has been hit by the lack of employment opportunities in the financial services sector and has been slashing costs in the UK to offset fee pressure. On Thursday UBS analyst William Vanderpump expects the firm "to outline initial thoughts and plans on a three to six months view".