2238 GMT - It's too early to turn bullish on car parts retailer Bapcor, signals Ord Minnett. Bapcor's turnaround appeared to gain traction in the two months through April, with all business segments returning to sales growth. However, Bapcor is being stung by higher interest rates, fuel and freight costs. Suppliers are moving to raise prices. That's tempering progress, Ord Minnett says. Bapcor lowered guidance for FY26 underlying Ebitda to A$144 million-A$150 million. That is 3.3% below Ord Minnett's forecast. "A recovery to historical profitability levels would represent material earnings upside," analyst James Casey says. "However, given the lack of earnings stability, we maintain our hold recommendation." Bapcor ended Thursday at A$0.42. (david.winning@wsj.com; @dwinningWSJ)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

May 14, 2026 18:38 ET (22:38 GMT)

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