JFrog stock rises as Cantor Fitzgerald maintains Overweight rating after strong Q2
Investing.com - Stifel maintained its Hold rating and $17.00 price target on First Watch Restaurant Group (LON:RTN) (NASDAQ:FWRG) on Tuesday, citing improved traffic momentum in the second quarter. The stock, currently trading at $17.42, sits near its analyst low target of $17.00, with a high target of $23.00. According to InvestingPro analysis, FWRG trades at a notably high P/E ratio of 93.4x.
The research firm expects First Watch to report same-restaurant sales growth of at least 3% for the second quarter of 2025, exceeding the Street consensus of 1.7%, based on the company’s strategic marketing investments that are increasing customer penetration. This optimism aligns with the company’s strong revenue growth of 14.4% over the last twelve months.
Stifel noted that First Watch’s revamped arrangement with DoorDash (NASDAQ:DASH) has stabilized the delivery business, eliminating what had previously been a noticeable headwind for the restaurant chain.
Mobile location data reviewed by the firm suggests traffic momentum improved during the second quarter, supporting a more constructive same-restaurant sales outlook for the breakfast-focused restaurant operator.
Despite taking a more positive view on First Watch’s outlook, which includes expectations for easing inflationary pressure in the second half of the year, Stifel maintained its Hold rating, stating it "would like to see the company target being FCF positive soon." This concern is reflected in InvestingPro data, which shows significant debt burden and short-term obligations exceeding liquid assets, with a current ratio of 0.31.
In other recent news, First Watch Restaurant Group reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, revealing a net loss of $829,000 and lower-than-expected revenue of $282.2 million, despite a 16.4% year-over-year increase. The company’s earnings per share (EPS) missed forecasts, coming in at -$0.01 against an expected $0.04. Despite the weaker-than-anticipated results, First Watch plans to open 59-64 new restaurants in 2025, maintaining a positive outlook for future growth. Stifel analysts have responded by reducing the price target for First Watch to $17.00, while maintaining a Hold rating, citing concerns over the company’s lowered EBITDA projections. Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James also adjusted its price target to $21.00 but continues to support a Strong Buy rating, highlighting positive traffic trends and strategic marketing efforts. The company has noted improvements in dine-in traffic and is optimistic about its marketing initiatives, although it faces challenges with rising costs and maintaining profitability. Analysts have expressed varied opinions, with some urging caution until the company’s strategies prove sustainable.
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