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Investing.com - Cantor Fitzgerald has reiterated its Neutral rating on Check Point Software (NASDAQ:CHKP) with a price target of $230.00, citing the company’s ongoing hardware refresh cycle. According to InvestingPro data, the stock is trading slightly above its Fair Value, with an impressive gross profit margin of 88%.
The research firm notes that while the outlook for Check Point’s hardware refresh cycle is improving through the remainder of fiscal year 2025, this positive development appears largely priced into the stock, which has risen approximately 18% year-to-date compared to the CIBR ETF’s 17% gain. The stock has demonstrated low volatility with a beta of 0.64, and InvestingPro analysis reveals strong financial health with a "GOOD" overall score.
Partner checks conducted by Cantor Fitzgerald revealed optimistic commentary for FY25, with 12 partners indicating comfort with achieving at least mid-single-digit growth and 5 expressing confidence in mid to high single-digit growth potential.
Check Point management has highlighted a strong pipeline for Quantum Force appliances heading into Q2 and the second half of the year, with expectations that the refresh cycle will continue at least through the first half of 2026.
The hardware refresh is being driven by several factors including end-of-life timelines, previous asset conservation due to recession fears, lingering supply chain disruptions from 2022-2023, and the typical 20% of install base that refreshes annually.
In other recent news, Checkpoint Software has been the subject of multiple analyst updates and product announcements. Mizuho (NYSE:MFG) raised its price target for Checkpoint Software to $240, citing an appreciation in comparable company multiples and expressing optimism about the company’s subscription revenue growth. Despite these positive indicators, Mizuho maintained a Neutral rating, noting that Checkpoint still has challenges to overcome in reaccelerating its business. Similarly, Cantor Fitzgerald increased its price target to $230 while maintaining a Neutral rating, pointing to a solid growth path through new technologies and strategic mergers.
Checkpoint Software has also introduced new AI-powered Quantum Smart-1 Management Appliances, designed to enhance threat detection and response capabilities. These appliances offer features like managing up to 10,000 gateways and integrating with over 250 third-party solutions. Additionally, Checkpoint announced upgrades to its Quantum Force Security Gateways, promising a 15%-25% increase in threat prevention throughput for existing gateways.
In strategic developments, TD Cowen reiterated a Buy rating with a $285 price target, highlighting Checkpoint’s recent acquisition aimed at enhancing its Exposure Management capabilities. This acquisition is expected to bolster the company’s competitive position in the cybersecurity market. These updates reflect Checkpoint Software’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its offerings and market position.
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