DA Davidson cuts Guidewire stock rating to neutral; keeps $226 target

Published 22/05/2025, 12:16
DA Davidson cuts Guidewire stock rating to neutral; keeps $226 target

On Thursday, DA Davidson analysts revised their stance on Guidewire shares (NYSE: NYSE:GWRE), downgrading the stock from Buy to Neutral while maintaining a price target of $226.00. The shift in rating stems from the stock’s significant performance, including a remarkable 71.4% return over the past year, which has led to a more "stretched" valuation, according to the analysts. They now perceive the risk/reward balance for Guidewire as even. According to InvestingPro analysis, the stock appears overvalued at current levels, trading near its 52-week high of $219.59.

Guidewire’s financial outcomes have been a point of interest, with the company showing strong revenue growth of 17.16% in the last twelve months. DA Davidson expects the company to either meet or slightly surpass their forecasts for the fiscal third quarter, which ended in March. InvestingPro data indicates the next earnings release is scheduled for June 10, 2025, with 10 analysts having revised their earnings estimates upward for the upcoming period. Analysts are also looking forward to the company’s management potentially confirming or slightly adjusting their financial guidance for the fiscal year 2025.

The analysts’ decision to downgrade the rating is based on the stock’s recent strong performance, which has, in their view, brought the company to a valuation that warrants a more cautious approach. This perspective is supported by current valuation metrics, as Guidewire trades at high EBITDA and revenue multiples. While the company operates with a moderate level of debt and maintains strong liquidity with a current ratio of 2.65, the potential for further stock appreciation could be limited compared to the risks.

Guidewire has been on the radar of investors and analysts alike as it navigates the competitive landscape of the software industry. The company specializes in providing software solutions for property and casualty (P&C) insurers, a niche market where it has established a strong presence.

Investors and market watchers will likely be keeping a close eye on Guidewire’s upcoming fiscal third-quarter report, as it will provide further insights into the company’s performance and management’s expectations for the near future. The maintained price target of $226.00 by DA Davidson indicates that while the stock’s upside may now be more limited, the firm still recognizes the value in Guidewire’s business.

In other recent news, Guidewire Software (ETR:SOWGn) has been actively involved in strategic moves and financial updates. The company recently announced its acquisition of Quantee, a Polish InsurTech startup, aimed at enhancing its insurance pricing capabilities. This acquisition is expected to bring product innovation and talent to Guidewire. Following this development, JMP Securities maintained a Market Outperform rating on Guidewire with a $250 price target, emphasizing the strategic value of the acquisition.

Additionally, Guidewire’s fiscal second-quarter earnings report exceeded expectations, with total revenue, Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR), and Non-GAAP operating income surpassing projections. The company closed 12 cloud deals during the quarter, including five with new customers. DA Davidson, Stifel, and Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James have all maintained positive ratings on Guidewire’s stock, with price targets of $226, $230, and $225, respectively. These firms highlighted Guidewire’s strong cloud momentum and robust financial performance as key factors for their ratings.

RBC Capital Markets, while not specifically focused on Guidewire, noted potential investment opportunities in the software sector amid recent market downturns due to tariff announcements. Guidewire’s strategic acquisitions and financial performance position it favorably in the evolving software landscape.

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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