Astral/Standard: No synergies means negative outlook; but effect is positive for Corus, says analyst

TORONTO – At least one prominent financial analyst has serious doubts about the proposed purchase of Standard Radio by Astral Media. In a research note published Monday, BMO Capital Markets Tim Casey said that because Standard is already known as a leader on margins and on cost containment, adding Standard to Astral is not such a good idea. "We estimate the transaction will be earnings neutral in 2008 and modestly accretive to free cash flow," writes Casey. "We do not believe is enhances the long-term growth of the company." BMO Capital Markets downgraded Astral to "market perform." "Based on (Standard's)...