FBN Securities sets Instacart stock at Sector Perform

Published 28/03/2025, 10:20
FBN Securities sets Instacart stock at Sector Perform

On Friday, FBN Securities initiated coverage on Instacart (NASDAQ:CART) shares, assigning a Sector Perform rating and setting a price target of $44.00. According to InvestingPro data, the stock is currently trading slightly below its Fair Value, with impressive gross profit margins of over 75% and a strong financial health rating. The firm’s analysis acknowledges Instacart’s leading position as a digital marketplace and technology provider in the North American online grocery sector, which is estimated to have a total addressable market (TAM) of approximately $160 billion, with Instacart commanding a market share of about 21%. This market leadership is reflected in the company’s robust revenue growth of 11% in the last twelve months. (InvestingPro subscribers have access to 8 more key insights about Instacart’s growth potential and market position through exclusive ProTips.)

Instacart’s proficiency in its operations and its strong relationships with various stakeholders, including users, grocers, advertisers, and gig economy workers, were highlighted as key factors contributing to its consistent user and revenue growth. FBN Securities anticipates that Instacart will maintain a high single-digit to low double-digit percentage growth in 2024.

The firm also projects a robust EBITDA margin for Instacart, amounting to 26% of its revenue in 2024. Moreover, the company is expected to demonstrate strong cash flow, with free cash flow (FCF) representing 70% of EBITDA in the same year. Instacart’s solid financial position is further underscored by its substantial cash reserves of $1.4 billion and the absence of debt on its balance sheet. InvestingPro data confirms this strong financial position, showing an impressive current ratio of 3.38 and an Altman Z-Score of 8.17, indicating excellent financial health.

FBN Securities’ assessment reflects a positive outlook on Instacart’s ability to sustain growth and profitability in the competitive online grocery space. The Sector Perform rating indicates the firm’s belief that Instacart’s stock is expected to perform in line with the sector averages in the near future.

In other recent news, Instacart has introduced a suite of AI-powered automation tools aimed at enhancing ad campaign performance for brands. These tools, including AI-generated landing pages and Universal Campaigns, are designed to streamline campaign management and improve efficiency. Early tests have shown positive outcomes, with companies like Rescue Dog Wines and 1st Phorm reporting increased sales and return on ad spend. Additionally, Instacart has partnered with Adonis to streamline billing for health plans that include Instacart Health’s nutrition programs, aiming to enhance access to nutritious food. In a separate development, Instacart unveiled its Smart Shop feature, utilizing generative AI and machine learning to offer personalized grocery shopping experiences, alongside Health Tags and Inspiration Pages providing nutritional information and health recommendations.

Furthermore, Loop Capital Markets adjusted its price target for Instacart stock to $52, maintaining a Buy rating despite concerns over EBITDA guidance and market reactions. Loop Capital expressed confidence in Instacart’s management, which has a history of surpassing guidance. Meanwhile, Cantor Fitzgerald maintained an Overweight rating and a $55 price target for Instacart, citing a positive outlook on the company’s unit economics and growth strategies. Cantor Fitzgerald suggested that smaller basket orders could support sustained growth and viewed the current market price as a buying opportunity. These developments reflect ongoing strategic efforts and market evaluations of Instacart’s performance and future potential.

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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