Jefferies initiates COPT Defense stock with Buy, sets $31 target

Published 17/03/2025, 12:22
Jefferies initiates COPT Defense stock with Buy, sets $31 target

On Monday, Jefferies began coverage on COPT Defense Properties (NYSE:CDP), issuing a Buy rating and establishing a price target of $31.00. The firm’s analysis suggests that the defense budget is expected to expand due to increasing cybersecurity and geopolitical risks. This anticipated growth is seen as a positive driver for COPT Defense Properties’ platform, which caters to the US Government and defense contractors. With a market capitalization of $3.07 billion and impressive revenue growth of 10.07% over the last twelve months, CDP has demonstrated its strong market position.

The recent concerns regarding the budget and DOGE cryptocurrency have impacted the stock, according to Jefferies. Despite these challenges, the firm believes that COPT’s consistent performance, growth prospects, and a strong dividend yield of 4.55% justify a valuation more aligned with its historical average. InvestingPro data reveals that CDP has maintained dividend payments for 34 consecutive years, showcasing its commitment to shareholder returns. The company’s strong financial health is further evidenced by its healthy current ratio of 2.37.

COPT’s development platform is poised to benefit from the rising demand in the defense sector. Jefferies highlights the company’s future funds from operations (FFO) per share, which is projected to be 3.8% in 2025. This growth metric contributes to the firm’s positive outlook on the stock. Discover more valuable insights about CDP’s growth potential and 12+ additional ProTips with a subscription to InvestingPro.

The initiation of coverage by Jefferies comes at a time when investors are closely monitoring the defense sector for opportunities. COPT’s focus on properties serving key government and defense activities positions it strategically within the industry.

Investors and market watchers will likely follow COPT Defense Properties’ stock performance closely, to see if it aligns with Jefferies’ expectations. The firm’s Buy rating and $31.00 price target suggest a confidence in the company’s ability to navigate the current market conditions and capitalize on the expected increase in defense spending.

In other recent news, COPT Defense Properties has provided financial guidance for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, projecting an increase in funds from operations (FFO) per share. The company anticipates diluted earnings per share (EPS) to range between $1.27 and $1.35, with FFO per share expected to be between $2.62 and $2.70. These projections are based on increased net operating income from their Same Property portfolio and recent developments, although offset by higher interest expenses. Citi analysts have adjusted their price target for COPT Defense Properties to $29 while maintaining a Neutral rating, following the company’s fourth-quarter earnings. Their analysis includes a slight increase in the 2026 core FFOps forecast to $2.74. Similarly, Truist Securities reduced its price target to $29 and kept a Hold rating, noting the company’s consistent earnings growth but also highlighting challenges such as upcoming refinancing activities and significant lease expirations in 2025. Truist also expressed concern over potential government spending cuts that could impact future earnings. These developments reflect analysts’ cautious outlook amidst the company’s financial projections and market conditions.

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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