On Thursday, BofA Securities revised its price target for Pennon Group Plc (PNN:LN) (OTC: PEGRF), a UK-based water utility and waste management company, lowering it to GBP6.75 from GBP7.40. The firm maintained a Neutral rating on the stock. The adjustment follows a period of increased scrutiny for the company, which has seen its shares underperform the sector significantly.
The analyst from BofA Securities noted that while Pennon Group has been a topic of debate, with some investors expecting the stock to catch up due to a perceived undervaluation, the company continues to face challenges.
Specifically, they pointed out that Pennon is drawing fresh scrutiny more quickly than issues are being resolved. Despite the company's subsidiary, South West Water, achieving 'outstanding' status, concerns were raised about whether this was partly achieved by stretching cost goals.
The report also highlighted the company's underperformance compared to the sector, with Pennon lagging behind by 25 percentage points year-to-date. Additionally, with a short interest of over 6%, the stock could be susceptible to a short squeeze. BofA Securities has adjusted its price target based on revised estimates for the upcoming Final Determination in the industry's regulatory review process (PR24).
Furthermore, the analyst suggested that Pennon Group may need to consider adjusting its dividend policy by up to 25% in May to keep its group gearing, or leverage, from exceeding the company's stated 72% threshold. The forecasted dividend yield for the fiscal year 2025 is 7.7%, based on the firm's estimates. This potential policy adjustment would be aimed at maintaining financial stability for the company in the face of regulatory pressures and market performance.
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