Citi cuts Jack in the Box stock price target to $41 from $47

Published 26/02/2025, 11:42
Citi cuts Jack in the Box stock price target to $41 from $47

On Wednesday, Citi analysts, led by Jon Tower, revised their price target for Jack In The Box stock (NASDAQ:JACK), decreasing it to $41.00 from the previous $47.00, while maintaining a Neutral rating on the shares. The stock, currently trading at $33.95, has fallen over 50% in the past year and is near its 52-week low of $32.69. According to InvestingPro analysis, the stock appears undervalued, with analyst targets ranging from $38 to $65. The adjustment follows a period of corporate restructuring, including the announcement of the CEO’s departure on Tuesday and the appointment of a new interim CEO, who took on the role on January 13, 2025.

The company provided a brief overview of the quarter and held a Q&A session in light of the recent management changes. Jack In The Box reported a stronger-than-expected performance for the first quarter, but the outlook for the second quarter is less promising, with same-store sales (SSS) expected to be negative for both Jack In The Box and Del Taco brands.

Citi’s analysts pointed out that while the first-quarter results for Jack In The Box were positive, ongoing challenges at Del Taco and subdued forecasts for the second quarter are likely to mitigate any optimism. The company is also focusing on adjusting its capital allocation in the near term.

The analysts noted that without improved sentiment towards the sector, shares of Jack In The Box, which is considered an under-scaled brand with significant exposure in California and to the Hispanic demographic, are expected to continue facing downward pressure. The market’s response to these factors and the company’s strategic adjustments will be closely monitored by investors.

In other recent news, Jack in the Box Inc. reported its first-quarter earnings for fiscal year 2024, with an earnings per share (EPS) of $1.92, surpassing the forecast of $1.73. However, the company’s revenue slightly missed expectations, coming in at $469.4 million compared to the anticipated $471.76 million. Despite this, the company maintained its annual guidance for same-store sales and operating EPS. Additionally, Jack in the Box plans to open 35-45 new restaurants in fiscal year 2025. In analyst-related developments, Oppenheimer and Deutsche Bank (ETR:DBKGn) engaged with the company regarding its capital allocation strategy and the challenging consumer environment. The company confirmed a reduction in its share repurchase plan from $20 million to $5 million, focusing instead on reducing leverage. Jack in the Box also continues to invest in digital capabilities and menu optimization to navigate the current economic climate.

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