Morgan Stanley cuts Sunnova stock target to $0.85 from $6

Published 04/03/2025, 23:16
Morgan Stanley cuts Sunnova stock target to $0.85 from $6

On Tuesday, Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) issued a new price target for Sunnova Energy International Inc . (NYSE:NOVA), significantly reducing it to $0.85 from the previous $6.00, while maintaining an Equalweight rating on the stock. The adjustment follows a going concern warning from NOVA, which has been grappling with weaker than expected cash flows and an uncertain market outlook. The stock has fallen nearly 83% year-to-date and currently trades at $0.68, according to InvestingPro data.

The firm’s analysts highlighted the challenges faced by Sunnova, pointing out liquidity and balance sheet risks as key factors for the revised price target. These concerns are validated by InvestingPro data showing a total debt burden of $8.5 billion and a concerning current ratio of 0.78, indicating short-term obligations exceed liquid assets. "NOVA issued a going concern warning following weaker than expected cash generation and an uncertain market outlook," the analyst stated. "We remain cautious on the outlook for the NOVA shares and lower our price target to $0.85, reflecting ongoing liquidity and balance sheet risks."

Morgan Stanley’s stance remains cautious despite maintaining the Equalweight rating, which suggests a neutral perspective on the stock’s expected performance relative to the market or its industry peers. The lowered price target is a reflection of the less favorable cash flow outlook for Sunnova, which could pose difficulties as the company seeks to refinance its outstanding recourse debt. InvestingPro’s analysis reveals a weak overall financial health score of 1.36 out of 5, with particularly concerning metrics in profitability and cash flow management.

The analyst further elaborated on the decision to adjust the price target, "We are lowering our price target to $0.85 to reflect the uncertain, and likely less attractive cash flow outlook, which could result in challenges as the company seeks to refinance its outstanding recourse debt." This statement underscores the financial pressures that Sunnova may face in the near future.

Sunnova, which operates in the solar and energy storage sector, has been navigating a complex market environment. The warning and subsequent price target reduction underscore the importance of robust cash generation and a solid balance sheet in maintaining a healthy financial status in the renewable energy industry.

In other recent news, Sunnova Energy International Inc. has faced several significant developments. The company reported a fourth-quarter cash generation of $2 million, which fell short of the anticipated $104 million, prompting TD Cowen to lower its price target from $3.00 to $0.60 while maintaining a Hold rating. Similarly, RBC Capital Markets adjusted its price target from $5.00 to $0.75, citing macroeconomic challenges and policy uncertainties. Jefferies maintained its Hold rating with a price target of $2.00, noting the company’s ongoing efforts to address its 2026 notes amidst financial uncertainties. Meanwhile, Mizuho (NYSE:MFG) Securities downgraded Sunnova from Outperform to Neutral, slashing the price target to $1.00 due to concerns over leveraged cash flows and looming debt maturities. BMO Capital Markets also reduced its price target to $0.85, maintaining a Market Perform rating and highlighting the burdensome terms of a recent $185 million term loan. Analysts from these firms have expressed concerns about Sunnova’s financial health, particularly with the inclusion of ’going concern’ language in its communications. Investors are closely watching how Sunnova plans to manage its financial obligations and stabilize its position in a challenging market environment.

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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