Baird downgrades Masco stock rating to Neutral as valuation thesis plays out

Published 22/07/2025, 09:24
Baird downgrades Masco stock rating to Neutral as valuation thesis plays out

Investing.com - Baird downgraded Masco (NYSE:MAS) from Outperform to Neutral on Tuesday, while maintaining a price target of $70.00. The $13.7 billion market cap company currently trades at $65.13, with analyst targets ranging from $60 to $82.34.

The research firm indicated that the downgrade was not related to a recent meeting with Masco’s CEO, but rather reflects a stock thesis that has largely played out as expected. According to InvestingPro data, the company has demonstrated strong shareholder returns through aggressive share buybacks and has maintained dividend payments for 55 consecutive years, with 11 years of consecutive dividend increases.

Baird noted that Masco now trades at approximately 17 times 2026 earnings per share, representing a premium to the mid-cap peer group which typically trades at 10-13 times earnings.

The premium valuation already reflects Masco’s solid execution, market share gains, and reliable capital allocation strategy, according to the research firm.

Baird stated it does not see a meaningful catalyst to drive further upward revaluation of the shares, resulting in what it views as a balanced risk/reward profile that supports the Neutral rating.

In other recent news, Masco Corporation reported its Q1 2025 earnings, which revealed a slight miss on earnings per share (EPS) expectations. The company posted an EPS of $0.87, falling short of the forecasted $0.92, with revenue also coming in below projections at $1.8 billion compared to the expected $1.84 billion. Masco has refrained from providing full-year guidance due to uncertainties surrounding tariffs, which are anticipated to impact the company by $400 million in 2025. In light of these challenges, Truist Securities adjusted its outlook on Masco, reducing the price target to $75 from $92 while maintaining a Buy rating. Meanwhile, Jefferies analyst Philip Ng also adjusted the price target for Masco shares, bringing it down to $62 from $64, while retaining a Hold rating on the stock.

The company is experiencing solid gains in the professional (Pro) segment, even as the DIY segment faces ongoing difficulties. Additionally, Masco has entered into a retirement agreement with its former CEO, Keith J. Allman, who will receive compensation tied to the company’s performance. The company is focusing on capitalizing on Pro market growth and navigating headwinds in the DIY space. These developments highlight the evolving dynamics and strategic adjustments Masco is undertaking in response to current market conditions.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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