Capitalising on some safe bets
Tom McGurk, presenter of 'McGurk on 4' weekday evenings on 4 FM
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PADDY POWER
A no-brainer. You don't need to be a sports fanatic or even have a passing interest in sport to have a flutter anymore. I am always intrigued at the variety of weird and not-so wonderful things that people place bets on, and Paddy Power is one of many firms that have capitalised on this.
As a business it is taking the world by storm and I feel that this is only the beginning of Patrick Kennedy's plans.
RYANAIR
Ryanair is my number two, primarily because of Michael O'Leary. Very little will keep this man down and in spite of the Boeing deal hitting a wall, Ryanair remains one of the most robust businesses in the airline industry. I am interested to see where O'Leary will take Ryanair before his rumoured retirement in 2013.
FBD
Surely I can't go wrong with an insurance company? After a very strong re-branding and marketing campaign, FBD is in a strong position in spite of current economic difficulties. They seem to be progressive and keep their prices very competitive, as far as I am aware. Also, while being successful at broadening their overall consumer appeal, they still have strong links with the farming community -- never a bad thing in this country!
SMURFIT KAPPA
A very interesting company and a very interesting team. I feel that they are weathering the storm and are still very viable in the long term.
KERRY GROUP
Food and retail is probably not the safest bet, but Kerry Group are one of Ireland's strongest indigenous brands and after taking a significant hit late 2008/early 2009, share price has rebounded and looks good for the coming year.
GREENCORE
So much more than a sandwich company! Probably more of a long-term investment, but as they themselves have predicted modest growth for 2010, after maintaining profitability this year, no small achievement, I'm happy to put a few bob their way.
ISEQ in December 2010: 2,985
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