Jefferies initiates coverage on James Hardie stock with Buy rating

Published 30/01/2025, 22:14
Jefferies initiates coverage on James Hardie stock with Buy rating

On Thursday, Jefferies analysts began coverage of James Hardie Industries (NYSE:JHX:AU) (NYSE: JHX) with a Buy rating, setting a price target of AUD63.00. With a current market capitalization of $14.3 billion and trading at $34.07, InvestingPro analysis indicates the stock is slightly overvalued relative to its Fair Value. The analysts noted that the valuation of James Hardie Industries is appealing and currently below historical multiples. The company has effectively navigated through recent inflationary pressures and a downturn in volumes by maintaining pricing and cost control.

James Hardie Industries has exhibited margin resilience, maintaining a robust gross profit margin of 40.17%, according to InvestingPro data, and possesses significant latent capacity, which positions the company well for potential operating leverage when there is an upturn in volumes. The company’s strong financial health is reflected in its GREAT overall score from InvestingPro’s comprehensive analysis. The analysts emphasized the strength of James Hardie Industries in managing the challenging economic conditions and their ability to maintain disciplined pricing and costs.

The new price target of AUD63.00 reflects the analysts’ confidence in the company’s ability to leverage its operational strengths moving forward. The analysts have highlighted the company’s solid performance despite the economic headwinds and its readiness to capitalize on future market improvements.

James Hardie Industries’ stock rating was initiated as part of a broader assessment of the sector by Jefferies, which also included coverage of another company with a Buy rating. The analysts’ commentary suggests that they see a positive outlook for James Hardie Industries, with potential for growth once market conditions become favorable.

The coverage initiation by Jefferies signifies a positive sentiment towards James Hardie Industries’ stock, as the market continues to monitor the company’s performance in light of the analysts’ expectations. With a healthy current ratio of 2.02 and annual revenue of $3.94 billion, James Hardie Industries’ management of inflation and volume challenges, paired with their disciplined approach, has placed them in a position to potentially benefit from future market inflections. For deeper insights into JHX’s financial health and growth potential, investors can access the comprehensive Pro Research Report available on InvestingPro, which includes detailed analysis of over 30 financial metrics and expert insights.

In other recent news, James Hardie Industries exhibited a solid performance in its Q2 FY ’25 results, surpassing expectations with an adjusted EBITDA of $0.5 billion for the first half of the year and $157 million in adjusted net income for Q2. However, sales experienced a 4% decrease year-over-year, totaling nearly $1 billion for the quarter. The company has also announced a new $300 million share repurchase program.

Truist Securities has initiated coverage on James Hardie, issuing a Buy rating and highlighting the company’s strong position in the building products sector. Truist’s analysis underscores the impressive EBITDA margins of James Hardie’s U.S. unit and expects the company to benefit from the continued growth of the fiber cement siding market. The firm also points out the potential for James Hardie to expand its market presence with the possibility of a new U.S. listing.

These recent developments underline James Hardie’s strategic moves and resilience in navigating market conditions. The company’s recent strategic hires, including a U.S. CEO with public company experience and a U.S. Investor Relations head with a competitive background, signal a shift towards a more proactive and dynamic corporate culture. Moreover, the divestiture of James Hardie’s lower-margin European business could further enhance the company’s growth and profitability profile.

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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