Canaccord cuts Plug Power stock target to $1; maintains hold rating

Published 13/05/2025, 12:54
Canaccord cuts Plug Power stock target to $1; maintains hold rating

On Tuesday, Canaccord Genuity adjusted its outlook on Plug Power (NASDAQ:PLUG) shares by reducing the price target from $1.25 to $1.00, while continuing to advise investors to maintain their holdings. The decision to lower the price target reflects changes in Canaccord’s financial models for Plug Power, which comes as the stock trades near $0.90, having fallen nearly 69% over the past year. According to InvestingPro analysis, the company currently trades at its Fair Value.

The firm’s analyst, George Giankarikas, reiterated the Hold rating, acknowledging the efforts of Plug Power’s management to restructure the company with an emphasis on sustainability and long-term viability. Giankarikas noted the positive steps being taken towards profitability and future cash flow generation, which are key areas under close observation by Canaccord Genuity. InvestingPro data reveals the company faces significant challenges, with a concerning debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32 and rapidly diminishing cash reserves.

The analyst cited several factors that are being monitored for their potential impact on Plug Power’s performance. These include the company’s progress towards profitability, regulatory developments that could affect the business, the status of a Department of Energy (DOE) loan, and the prospect of additional capital infusions. InvestingPro has identified multiple risk factors, including weak gross profit margins of -77.5% and significant cash burn, with over $1 billion in negative free cash flow in the last twelve months. Subscribers can access 13 additional ProTips and comprehensive financial analysis in the Pro Research Report.

Despite the reduced price target, the Hold rating suggests that Canaccord Genuity sees potential in Plug Power’s strategic direction but remains cautious, awaiting more substantial evidence of the company’s progress. The firm’s stance indicates a neutral view on the stock, with a recommendation for investors to neither buy more shares nor sell their current holdings at this time.

In summary, Canaccord Genuity’s latest assessment of Plug Power reflects a conservative outlook, with the firm looking for more concrete signs of improvement in the company’s financial health and market position before changing its investment rating.

In other recent news, Plug Power reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, with revenue aligning with previous guidance at $134 million. The company has forecasted second-quarter revenue between $140 million and $180 million, reflecting a cautious optimism in a challenging market environment. Plug Power successfully reduced its cash burn by nearly 50% year-over-year and raised $280 million in equity, alongside securing $525 million in financing. Analysts from Oppenheimer maintained a Perform rating on Plug Power, noting the company’s progress in restructuring and hydrogen production, but expressed caution until improvements in profit margins and liquidity are observed.

KeyBanc Capital Markets also maintained its Sector Weight rating on Plug Power following the first-quarter earnings report. Concerns were raised regarding the potential expiration of 45V tax credits in 2025, which could impact companies like Plug Power. The company is actively reducing costs, targeting over $200 million in annualized savings, and has commissioned a new hydrogen plant in Los Angeles, increasing its total capacity to 40 tons per day.

Plug Power’s strategic focus includes achieving gross margin breakeven by the end of the year, with significant opportunities anticipated in the European market. The company has been actively engaged in expanding its presence in Europe, leveraging favorable regulatory frameworks and procurement mandates. Despite macroeconomic pressures, Plug Power’s commitment to operational efficiency and market expansion positions it for potential growth in the hydrogen sector.

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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