CarMax stock rating reiterated at Outperform by William Blair

Published 20/06/2025, 14:54
CarMax stock rating reiterated at Outperform by William Blair

Investing.com - William Blair reiterated its Outperform rating on CarMax (NYSE:KMX) on Tuesday, citing the company’s sales momentum and expectations for improved profitability in calendar 2025. The stock, currently trading near its 52-week low at $65.76, shows mixed signals according to InvestingPro data, with a P/E ratio of 21.7x suggesting relatively high valuation compared to growth prospects.

The research firm highlighted CarMax’s potential for accelerating profitability through improved SG&A leverage in the coming year. William Blair sees significant growth potential for the used car retailer, noting the opportunity for CarMax’s business to more than double as its national market share expands.

Currently, CarMax holds a 3.7% share of the 0- to 10-year-old vehicle market, but William Blair believes this could grow to double-digit levels similar to what the company has achieved in its most established markets. The firm expects profits to rise faster than sales due to SG&A leverage and improvements in the company’s finance business.

William Blair acknowledged several risks facing CarMax, including challenges associated with managing a large inventory of fast-depreciating assets. The firm also noted the company’s reliance on asset-backed securitizations to fund CarMax Auto Finance operations.

The economic sensitivity inherent in selling high-priced discretionary items was identified as another risk factor that could impact CarMax’s performance, according to the research firm’s analysis.

In other recent news, CarMax has been the focus of several analyst updates and company developments. Evercore ISI maintained its Outperform rating on CarMax, lowering the price target from $84 to $80, citing concerns about declining comparable sales in recent months. The firm also adjusted its earnings per share (EPS) estimate to $3.65 for the fiscal year. Similarly, RBC Capital Markets reduced its price target for CarMax to $80 from $103, while maintaining an Outperform rating. The adjustment reflects lowered EPS projections for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, aligning with CarMax management’s revised earnings expectations.

Additionally, CarMax has renewed its partnership with Gotham FC, continuing as the front-of-kit sponsor for the women’s soccer club. This partnership aims to enhance fan experiences and community engagement, with initiatives such as youth soccer clinics and increased marketing efforts. Evercore ISI also suggested strategic actions for CarMax, including expanding its inventory of older vehicles and increasing subprime loan exposure to boost comparable sales. Despite operational improvements, CarMax faces challenges such as potential tariffs and increased credit provisions, which have impacted analyst projections and price targets.

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