Benchmark maintains Buy on Kaiser Aluminum, target at $74

Published 28/04/2025, 16:10
Benchmark maintains Buy on Kaiser Aluminum, target at $74

On Monday, Benchmark analysts upheld their Buy rating for Kaiser Aluminum Corporation (NASDAQ:KALU) with a steady price target of $74.00, aligning with the broader analyst consensus target range of $64-$74. Trading at $62.51, the stock has shown strong momentum with a 14.48% gain over the past week, though InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is currently fairly valued. Their assessment was based on the company’s recent announcement that it has increased its full-year FY25 EBITDA guidance, despite macroeconomic uncertainties. Kaiser Aluminum’s General Engineering products are gaining from current trade dynamics, and its Aerospace segment is expected to recover as it approaches the end of its destocking phase. The company is also preparing to launch the Warrick roll coat line in the second half of the year.

Kaiser Aluminum’s first-quarter EBITDA of $73 million surpassed Wall Street’s expectations of $53 million, contributing to a trailing twelve-month EBITDA of $226.5 million. While Aerospace and High Strength shipments saw a decline due to supply chain issues with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), demand in the defense, space, and business jet sectors remained robust. InvestingPro data reveals 8 additional key insights about Kaiser’s performance and financial health, available to subscribers. The company anticipates further growth with Boeing (NYSE:BA)’s planned increase in 737-MAX production to 38 per month later in the year and then to 42 per month, signaling the end of destocking for Kaiser Aluminum’s aerospace products.

The company’s Packaging (NYSE:PKG) division experienced growth in conversion revenue, attributed to an improved product mix. This comes as the new Warrick roll coat line is undergoing qualification, with expectations for a full run-rate in the second half of 2025. Additionally, the General Engineering segment is benefiting as a domestic supplier amid current trade policies.

In the Automotive sector, which accounts for 8% of Kaiser Aluminum’s sales, the company is mitigating industry uncertainty by focusing on high-demand truck and SUV platforms. This strategic positioning is expected to support the company’s performance in the face of broader market challenges. Kaiser Aluminum’s overall outlook is positive as it leverages its product offerings and strategic initiatives to navigate the evolving economic landscape. Notably, the company maintains a strong dividend yield of 5.08% and has consistently paid dividends for 19 consecutive years. For detailed analysis and comprehensive insights, access Kaiser Aluminum’s full research report on InvestingPro, part of our coverage of over 1,400 US stocks.

In other recent news, Kaiser Aluminum Corporation reported its Q1 2025 financial results, showcasing a strong earnings per share (EPS) of $1.44, significantly exceeding the forecast of $0.41. However, the company’s revenue fell short of expectations, recording $777.4 million against the anticipated $829 million. Despite the robust EPS, the revenue miss has raised questions about the company’s sales performance. The earnings report also highlighted an improved EBITDA margin and operating income, reflecting effective cost management. Kaiser Aluminum has projected a 5-10% growth in conversion revenue for 2025 and increased its full-year EBITDA expectations by 5-10% over 2024’s figures. The company is optimistic about margin improvements driven by new investments and recovery in the aerospace sector. Additionally, Kaiser Aluminum’s strategic investments, such as the new coating line at the Warwick rolling mill and the Trentwood Phase seven project, are expected to contribute to future growth. Despite these developments, the company’s stock experienced a decline following the earnings announcement, indicating mixed investor sentiment.

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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