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On Tuesday, Jefferies analysts upgraded Hiscox Ltd. stock (LSE:LON:HSX) from hold to buy, citing positive developments revealed during the company’s recent investor day. The analysts also raised the price target for Hiscox shares to £15.00 from £10.00. The upgrade comes as the $5.8 billion market cap insurer maintains a GREAT financial health score according to InvestingPro data.
The investor day was noted for its unexpected announcements, including a commitment to significantly increase the dividend in the near term, building on its track record of raising dividends for four consecutive years. The company also outlined its ambitions to boost retail growth in the medium term and implement a long-term efficiency program.
Hiscox shares experienced a 7% rise on the day of the investor event, reflecting the market’s positive reception to the company’s new strategic plans. The analysts highlighted that the stock is currently trading at a valuation of 10x the 1-year forward price-to-earnings ratio, which is below the pre-pandemic average of approximately 15x.
Jefferies analysts described the investor day as a "landmark moment" for Hiscox, suggesting that the company’s new initiatives could significantly impact its future performance. The upgrade and increased price target reflect the analysts’ confidence in the company’s strategic direction.
In other recent news, Hiscox Ltd. has announced plans to achieve efficiency gains of $200 million starting from 2028, following an operational overhaul aimed at reducing costs and leveraging scale across its global insurance business. The company has identified the retail sector as a significant growth opportunity, with a $317 billion annualized addressable market, particularly focusing on small commercial and high-net-worth individual lines. Additionally, Berenberg has raised its stock rating for Hiscox to Buy, setting a price target of GBP14.50, citing the potential of the company’s Retail business and anticipated cost savings of approximately $0.2 billion. The analyst at Berenberg expressed optimism about the Retail sector’s lower volatility and its potential to bolster Hiscox’s profitability.
Citi analysts have also adjusted their price target for Hiscox to GBP13.30, up from GBP12.24, while maintaining a Neutral rating. This follows encouraging core results, despite challenges such as an anticipated rise in the tax rate and wildfire losses. Hiscox’s decision to re-base its dividend and execute a share buyback was well-received, and the company has set a new growth target for Retail Insurance Written Premium growth at over 6%. Citi’s analysis reflects a downward revision of the 2025 earnings per share forecast due to wildfire losses, with minor adjustments for 2026 and 2027. These developments highlight Hiscox’s strategic focus on expanding its Retail business and improving operational efficiency.
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