Holding the line

In a world where even the slightest vocal tremor can be revelatory, it pays to listen in to company conference calls

If you really want to see a chief executive under pressure you’ll have to get up early Picture: Getty

Brokers’ reports are often the main source that private investors use when deciding to buy or sell a share. Some are outstandingly good. Others can be outstandingly hyped. Objectivity can be a challenge in the highly pressured brokerage market, but that is not universal.

All I would say is: look back at the history and you will find one or two scandal-ridden brokerages in Ireland which it remains wise – in my view ...