IndigoVision focus on growth after failed takeover

CCTV systems maker Indigo­Vision is set for an “interesting year” ahead, according to analysts, as the Edinburgh-based technology outfit tries to put a failed takeover bid by founder and former chief executive ­Oliver Vellacott behind it.

At Thursday’s interim results, investors will focus on how close the firm is to its goal of 20 per cent sales growth. Profit margins will also come under close scrutiny. One analyst said the company appeared to have put the boardroom ructions behind it, but shrugged off investor chatter that the year ahead was “make or break” for Indigo.

“They would suggest that they are already making progress, and there is evidence of that,” he said.

“I don’t think this is a make-or-break year, but it will be an interesting year.”

Analysts are predicting strong results from Wood Group despite on-going difficulties with a maintenance contract in Oman.

The Aberdeen-based energy services firm is expected to post a 35 per cent surge in profits during 2012, with consensus estimates pegging the figure at $461 million (£307m). Estimated turnover of $6.8 billion would represent an increase of more than 12 per cent on the previous year.

Performance has been driven by high levels of activity, particularly in the upstream exploration sectors.

The group’s Wood PSN unit, which provides long-term support for existing oil and gas facilities, will take a hit of about $20m (£13.3m) on what has proven a troublesome contract with Petroleum Development Oman.

Cineworld will unveil a hike in profits on Thursday as the success of James Bond blockbuster Skyfall ensured a strong finish to 2012.

Analysts at Investec expect pre-tax profits to jump 9 per cent to £39.5m as the world’s most famous fictional spy helped it shrug off a summer sales decline when film fans stayed at home to enjoy events such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Euro 2012 football tournament and the London Olympics.

Week ahead

Tomorrow: BPI, HSBC.

Tuesday: Cupid, John Menzies, Macfarlane, Wood Group

Wednesday: Admiral, Lookers

Thursday: Aviva, Balfour Beatty, Standard Life

Friday: Aga