Doing acquisitions always carries a risk but Philips has a good track record, so I am willing to give them the benefit of the doubt. The fact is that medical purchases are expensive, but you have to pursue them to spur growth at the business.
The strategic direction is good, but I need to see continued moves to back up the choices management has made. The question is what they will do with semiconductors and what kind of acquisitions they will pursue for medical.
Two important profit drivers, namely cost cuts and loan loss provisions, are faltering, and that is a trend to watch for the whole banking sector.
The real test is what to do the U.S. holding. It would be positive for the share price if they sold it.
