Morgan Stanley initiates Victrex stock with Overweight rating

Published 04/02/2025, 09:48
Morgan Stanley initiates Victrex stock with Overweight rating

On Tuesday, Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) began coverage on Victrex (LON:VCTX) Plc (VCT:LN) (OTC: VTXPF), assigning the stock an Overweight rating and setting a price target of GBP13.00. The firm’s analyst cited the company’s position as a Specialty Polymer pure play with strong margins and returns, despite the recent de-rating due to synchronized demand deterioration across all major end markets.

Victrex, known for its high-performance polymer solutions, has seen its valuation affected by a widespread decrease in demand. However, Morgan Stanley’s analysis indicates potential for recovery in the second half of 2025 and beyond. The analyst pointed to early indicators of volume recovery, reduced costs for raw materials, and a lack of new competitors as factors that could lead to an increase in earnings and a more favorable valuation for Victrex.

The financial institution highlighted the company’s attractive financial metrics, noting that Victrex’s forecasted 9x 2025 enterprise value to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EV/EBITDA) and a 7% free cash flow (FCF) yield are compelling. These figures are seen as undemanding by the analysts, both in absolute terms and when compared to peers.

The analyst’s statement underscored the potential for investors who are willing to remain patient: "Patience will be rewarded, with 9x ’25e EV/EBITDA and 7% FCF yield, which we see as undemanding in absolute and relative terms." This outlook suggests a belief that Victrex’s stock offers a value proposition that may not be immediately apparent but could provide significant returns in the medium term.

Victrex’s focus on specialty polymers has allowed it to maintain leadership in margins and returns within its sector. The company’s financial health and market position appear to be robust despite the recent challenges faced by the industry.

Investors and market watchers will likely monitor Victrex’s performance closely, especially as the forecasted recovery period approaches. The Overweight rating from Morgan Stanley indicates a positive outlook for the stock, with an expectation that it will outperform the average return of the stocks the analyst covers.

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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