Crane stock price target raised to $189 from $165 at Stifel

Investing.com - Stifel raised its price target on Crane (NYSE:CR) to $189.00 from $165.00 while maintaining a Hold rating on the stock. The new target aligns closely with Crane’s current trading price of $189.12, with the stock showing impressive momentum, having gained nearly 25% year-to-date. According to InvestingPro analysis, Crane currently appears overvalued relative to its Fair Value.

The firm cited multiple positive factors in its analysis, particularly highlighting the outlook for Crane’s Aerospace & Electronics division, which is expected to benefit from improved domestic air travel driving commercial aftermarket demand.

Stifel noted that increasing production at Boeing (NYSE:BA) should boost commercial OEM business, while material increases in the Department of Defense budget for fiscal 2026 would likely contribute to a strong outlook for the Aerospace & Electronics segment.

The research firm identified Process Flow Technologies, primarily valves, as the business segment to watch, noting potential softening demand from deferred capital spending in chemical markets, though MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations) should remain solid due to continued industrial output.

Stifel also mentioned that Crane’s recent acquisition of the PSI business from Baker Hughes (NASDAQ:BKR) and the company’s plans for this business would be an important topic, with expectations that Crane will raise its guidance.

In other recent news, Crane Co. reported strong first-quarter 2025 earnings, with earnings per share (EPS) surpassing expectations at $1.39, compared to the forecasted $1.27. Despite a slight miss on revenue, which was $557.6 million against a projected $564 million, the company demonstrated resilience, with core sales increasing by 7.5% and adjusted operating profit rising by 18%. The Aerospace & Electronics segment was a significant contributor to this growth, securing new contracts and achieving a record backlog of $1.35 billion. Crane’s strategic acquisition of Precision Sensors & Instrumentation (PSI) from Baker Hughes for $1.06 billion is expected to enhance its sensor technology offerings, with anticipated tax benefits providing financial leverage. Analyst firm Stifel raised its price target for Crane to $165, maintaining a Hold rating, while DA Davidson reaffirmed its Buy rating with a $200 target, highlighting Crane’s strong balance sheet and strategic focus on mergers and acquisitions. These developments reflect Crane’s ongoing commitment to growth and strategic execution in high-potential markets.

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