Berenberg sets Diageo stock Buy rating, targets GBP23.72

Published 02/04/2025, 09:26
Berenberg sets Diageo stock Buy rating, targets GBP23.72

On Wednesday, Berenberg initiated coverage on Diageo PLC (LON:DGE:LN) (NYSE: DEO), a global leader in alcoholic beverages, with a Buy rating and a price target of GBP23.72. The firm’s analysis suggests that despite recent market corrections influenced by external economic factors, Diageo presents an attractive investment opportunity. Currently trading at $104.51 with a market capitalization of $59 billion, InvestingPro analysis indicates the stock is trading below its Fair Value, supporting Berenberg’s bullish stance.

The coverage comes as Diageo’s shares have adjusted in value to account for a variety of economic pressures. Berenberg notes that the company’s share price and valuation have been affected by a rise in US bond yields, tempered earnings expectations, and the potential impact of tariffs. The stock currently trades at an EV/EBITDA multiple of 12.35x, with a healthy dividend yield of 3.04%. InvestingPro data reveals strong fundamentals with a return on equity of 36% and robust revenue of $20.21 billion, suggesting resilience despite market pressures.

Berenberg highlights that Diageo’s current valuation commands approximately a 10% premium over its main competitor, Pernod Ricard (EPA:PERP). This premium is deemed justifiable by Berenberg due to Diageo’s consistently superior return on invested capital (ROIC) compared to its peers. InvestingPro’s Financial Health Score of 2.19 (FAIR) and comprehensive analysis of over 30 financial metrics provide deeper insights into the company’s competitive position. The firm’s analysts believe that Diageo’s extensive global footprint and diverse geographic presence position it to effectively manage tariff risks.

The report further addresses the tariff concerns, acknowledging them as significant yet surmountable obstacles for Diageo. Berenberg’s analysts view the current uncertainty surrounding tariffs as an element of risk that is nonetheless outweighed by the potential rewards for investors choosing to engage with Diageo’s stock at this juncture.

In summary, Berenberg’s initiation of coverage on Diageo with a Buy rating and a GBP23.72 price target reflects confidence in the company’s ability to navigate through current economic headwinds. The firm sees Diageo’s robust track record and strategic market positioning as key factors that offer an attractive risk/reward profile for investors amidst ongoing tariff uncertainties.

In other recent news, Diageo PLC has seen several analyst updates and financial assessments. Barclays (LON:BARC) adjusted its price target for Diageo to GBp26.60 from GBp28.60, maintaining an Overweight rating. The adjustment follows strong financial results for the first half of the year but reflects concerns due to the company’s cautious year-end outlook and withdrawal of medium-term guidance. Deutsche Bank (ETR:DBKGn) upgraded Diageo’s stock rating from "Sell" to "Hold," citing the company’s strong fundamentals despite recent underperformance. Bernstein reiterated an Outperform rating with a price target of GBP28.80, acknowledging Diageo’s solid operational performance despite some earnings challenges. BofA Securities slightly reduced its price target from $137.00 to $136.00, maintaining a Buy rating, and noted a modest decrease in expected earnings per share for future fiscal years. Meanwhile, JPMorgan maintained its Neutral rating with a GBp25.00 target, highlighting potential challenges such as weakening markets and tariff risks. These recent developments underscore the varied perspectives among analysts regarding Diageo’s financial health and market position.

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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