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Investing.com - BofA Securities downgraded Ball Corp (NYSE:BALL), a $16.3 billion packaging company with $12 billion in annual revenue, from Buy to Neutral and lowered its price target to $66.00 from $67.00 on Wednesday. According to InvestingPro analysis, the stock appears fairly valued at current levels.
The downgrade comes despite Ball Corp’s stock rising to near $60 in recent months, delivering a 10.75% return over the past six months, with BofA Securities citing expectations of "more sluggish volume trends" for the company compared to other beverage can manufacturers. The stock currently trades at a P/E ratio of 33.2x, which InvestingPro data indicates is relatively high for the sector.
The research firm highlighted Ball Corp’s exposure to the beer market as a potential concern for the company’s performance going forward.
BofA Securities also noted that higher aluminum prices could encourage packaging substitution as hedges roll off, creating additional headwinds for the company.
The firm further pointed to lessening promotional activity following the July 4th holiday as another factor that could contribute to a deceleration in Ball Corp’s business.
In other recent news, Ball Corporation has announced a $250 million accelerated share repurchase agreement with Crédit Agricole CIB, using cash on hand and available borrowings. This move is part of Ball’s strategy to return $1.5 billion to shareholders by year-end. Ball Corporation also completed a public offering of €850 million in senior notes due 2032, with an interest rate of 4.250%, aimed at managing its capital structure and supporting long-term growth. The offering was upsized from an initial €750 million due to demand, and the proceeds are intended for general corporate purposes, including debt repayment and strategic investments.
Furthermore, Truist Securities recently raised Ball Corp’s stock price target to $62, maintaining a Buy rating. This adjustment follows Ball Corp’s first-quarter earnings per share of $0.76, surpassing both Truist’s and consensus estimates. The company continues its aggressive share repurchase program, targeting $1.3 billion in buybacks for 2025, with $651 million already completed. Additionally, President Trump’s increase in aluminum tariffs from 25% to 50% is anticipated to affect beverage can producer stocks, including Ball Corporation, potentially leading to a 2% retail price inflation. However, analysts suggest the immediate impact may be mitigated by commodity hedging practices.
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