Morgan Stanley initiates Parker-Hannifin stock with equalweight rating

Published 05/06/2025, 07:52
Morgan Stanley initiates Parker-Hannifin stock with equalweight rating

On Thursday, Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) analysts initiated coverage on Parker-Hannifin (NYSE: PH) stock with an Equalweight rating and set a price target of $700.00. The decision reflects the company’s transformation into a more secular business, expanding its Aero segment and increasing its presence in long-cycle industrial markets through mergers and acquisitions. The company, currently valued at $84.9 billion, has demonstrated strong financial health with a perfect Piotroski Score of 9, according to InvestingPro data.

The analysts highlighted Parker-Hannifin’s strong execution and pricing power, which have contributed to the company’s enhanced resilience across business cycles. This transformation, according to the analysts, has positioned the company to trade at a premium compared to its historical valuation, reflected in its current P/E ratio of 25.3x and robust return on equity of 27%.

Parker-Hannifin’s stock has already appreciated by 30% over the past two years due to these factors. The analysts noted that the company’s growing credibility as an acquirer further supports its current valuation.

However, the analysts also pointed out potential challenges, such as achieving the organic mid-single-digit growth targets for its industrial segment. This could offset the continued margin improvements anticipated for the company.

In other recent news, Parker-Hannifin Corporation (NYSE:PH) reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, exceeding analysts’ expectations with an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $6.94, surpassing the forecasted $6.72. Despite this positive earnings surprise, the company’s revenue slightly missed projections, coming in at $4.96 billion against a forecast of $4.98 billion. The company also announced a leadership transition, with Robert W. Malone, leader of the Filtration Group, set to retire on August 31, 2025, and Matthew A. Jacobson taking over the role starting July 1, 2025. Additionally, Stifel analysts raised the price target for Parker-Hannifin stock to $670 from $630, maintaining a Hold rating. This decision followed a survey indicating mixed expectations for future sales, but a projected 0.8% increase in sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025. The survey also revealed improved expectations for sales and inventory over the next twelve months. Parker-Hannifin’s strategic focus on aerospace led to a raised growth forecast of 12% in this segment, despite challenges in industrial markets. The company continues to navigate tariff implications, with an estimated cost impact of $375 million, and remains vigilant about potential supply chain disruptions.

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