On Tuesday, TD Cowen maintained its Buy rating on Woodward (NASDAQ:WWD) stock but reduced the price target to $186 from the previous $200. The adjustment comes as the firm anticipates challenges in the aerospace original equipment (Aero OE) sector and a slowdown in China's natural gas bus and truck engine market.
The firm's analysis indicates a forecast for fiscal year 2025 earnings per share (EPS) that is 8% below the current consensus. This projection takes into account the expected de-stocking in the Aero OE segment and in China's natural gas bus and truck engine market, which the firm refers to as "OH."
TD Cowen's revised price target of $186 is based on a 20 times multiple of the estimated fiscal year 2025 enterprise value to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EV/EBITDA). This multiple reflects the firm's valuation framework for Woodward in the context of the anticipated industry conditions.
The firm's outlook for Woodward incorporates the potential impact of these sector-specific headwinds on the company's financial performance. Despite the lowered price target, the Buy rating suggests that the firm still sees a positive long-term investment potential in Woodward's shares.
In other recent news, Woodward Inc. revealed a 6% increase in net sales during its third-quarter fiscal year 2024 earnings call, despite facing challenges in the aerospace sector. This growth was driven by both Aerospace and Industrial segments.
However, due to lower China on-highway sales and ongoing supply disruptions, the company revised its full-year sales guidance to between $3.25 billion and $3.3 billion.
The company also reported a free cash flow of $225 million for the first nine months, with $348 million returned to stockholders. Looking ahead, Woodward expects Aerospace sales to grow by 12% to 14% and Industrial sales to increase by 11% to 13%. The company did not provide specific guidance for FY25, but expressed optimism for growth in standby power, marine, and gas turbine fuel control systems.
These are recent developments for Woodward Inc., which continues to focus on innovation, cost management, and strategic growth to navigate the complexities of the global aerospace market.
InvestingPro Insights
Woodward's financial health and stock performance are key areas of interest for investors, especially in light of recent industry challenges. According to InvestingPro data, Woodward boasts a market capitalization of $11.16 billion, with a P/E ratio standing at 31.08, reflecting a premium valuation in the market. Notably, the company has experienced a robust revenue growth of 23.49% over the last twelve months as of Q2 2024, signaling strong business performance despite sector headwinds.
InvestingPro Tips highlight that Woodward has not only maintained its dividend payments for a remarkable 52 consecutive years but has also raised its dividend for 3 consecutive years, showcasing a commitment to shareholder returns. Additionally, the company's stock has delivered a high return over the last year, with a 54.64% price total return, and analysts have revised their earnings upwards for the upcoming period, suggesting confidence in Woodward's earning potential.
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