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On Friday, JPMorgan updated its assessment of Phoenix Group (PHNX:LN) (OTC: PHXXF), raising the price target on the company’s shares to GBP5.65 from GBP5.00. Despite the increase, the firm maintained its Underweight rating on the stock.
The revision followed Phoenix Group’s announcement of its FY24 results, which showed an adjusted operating profit approximately 10% higher than JPMorgan’s projections. Additionally, the company’s management has increased its operating profit guidance for FY26 by more than 20%.
JPMorgan analysts believe that Phoenix Group is on track to meet the updated guidance due to ongoing cost efficiency measures, operating leverage, and anticipated improvements in investment outcomes over the coming years. Consequently, JPMorgan has materially raised its operating profit forecasts for Phoenix Group by roughly 13% to 21%, prompting the new price target of 565 pence.
Despite the improved outlook and the stock appearing less expensive than before, JPMorgan has opted to maintain an Underweight rating. The analysts cited concerns over Phoenix Group’s debt leverage, which is expected to remain relatively high. They also noted that the company’s overall balance sheet strength is considered significantly weaker compared to its peers, who are believed to offer similar or better levels of capital return and growth.
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