On Thursday, Truist Securities adjusted its outlook on DraftKings Inc. (NASDAQ:DKNG) shares, reducing the price target to $53 from $55, while reaffirming a Buy rating on the company's stock. The alteration comes amid considerations of the company's technological edge within the sector and the potential impact of legislative changes in Illinois.
The firm highlighted DraftKings' position as a frontrunner from a technological standpoint within the industry. The attention is now turning to Illinois, as the state's regulatory environment is expected to significantly influence the company's operations.
Analysts from Truist Securities anticipate that the upcoming conference call will shed light on how Illinois' legislative developments are affecting DraftKings, especially since they are among the most affected entities.
The firm also noted the possibility for DraftKings to employ strategic measures to mitigate the effects of tax increments. Even as DraftKings explores ways to balance these financial shifts, the investment community's concerns grow regarding the possibility of other states enacting similar tax hikes.
Investors are advised to watch for DraftKings' strategies to address these challenges and the subsequent impact on the company's long-term financial goals. Truist Securities emphasized the importance of evaluating the appropriate discount rate to apply to DraftKings' valuation in light of these developments.
In other recent news, DraftKings has been the subject of numerous updates. The company's second-quarter earnings call is eagerly anticipated, with Piper Sandler maintaining an Overweight rating and a steady price target of $50.
The firm's estimates place DraftKings' adjusted EBITDA for 2024 at the lower end of the company's guidance range, with investors keenly awaiting insights into the 2025 EBITDA and potential capital allocation plans.
In parallel, Stifel reiterated its Buy rating on DraftKings, despite a 15% decline in the company's shares over a recent period. The firm encourages investors to maintain their positions ahead of the company's second-quarter earnings report, considering the favorable setup for the latter half of the year.
Deutsche Bank maintained a Hold rating on DraftKings shares, citing regulatory risks and a potential shortfall in the second quarter of 2024 earnings. The firm adjusted its forecast for DraftKings' second-quarter adjusted EBITDA to $134 million, down from the previous estimate.
Oppenheimer lowered its price target from $60 to $58, maintaining an Outperform rating, following a reassessment of the company's second-quarter and full-year 2024 EBITDA estimates. Guggenheim also adjusted its price target for DraftKings to $52.00 from $53.00, while maintaining a Buy rating.
Lastly, DraftKings welcomed the return of Erik Bradbury as its Chief Accounting Officer. These are the recent developments for DraftKings.
InvestingPro Insights
As DraftKings Inc. (NASDAQ:DKNG) navigates the evolving legislative landscape, particularly in Illinois, investors may find additional context in the company's financial health and market performance. According to InvestingPro data, DraftKings boasts a substantial market capitalization of $18.59 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the industry. Despite not being profitable over the last twelve months, the company has shown impressive revenue growth of 57% over the same period, indicating strong sales momentum. Moreover, analysts have a positive outlook, expecting net income to grow this year.
Two noteworthy InvestingPro Tips for DraftKings include the anticipation of sales growth in the current year and the prediction by analysts that the company will turn profitable this year. These insights suggest that DraftKings may have strategies in place to overcome regulatory hurdles and capitalize on its technological leadership within the sector. For investors seeking a deeper dive into DraftKings' financials and market prospects, InvestingPro offers additional tips and metrics. By using the coupon code PRONEWS24, investors can receive up to 10% off a yearly Pro and a yearly or biyearly Pro+ subscription, gaining access to valuable information that can inform investment decisions. There are 9 more InvestingPro Tips available for DraftKings, offering a comprehensive understanding of the company's potential and challenges.
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