Stifel cuts USAC stock target to $27, retains hold rating

Published 13/05/2025, 10:46
Stifel cuts USAC stock target to $27, retains hold rating

On Tuesday, Stifel analysts adjusted their price target for USA Compression Partners LP (NYSE:USAC), reducing it to $27.00 from the previous $28.00, while maintaining a Hold rating on the stock. The revision follows the company’s first-quarter 2025 performance, which met Stifel’s forecasts. According to InvestingPro data, USAC currently trades at a P/E ratio of 34.4x, suggesting a premium valuation compared to industry peers. The management of USAC highlighted the strategic positioning of its sizable fleet in the Northeast, an area less affected by the broader oil price volatility, boasting about 900 thousand horsepower (HP (NYSE:HPQ)) located in a region with a higher natural gas focus.

The company’s leadership also outlined expectations for more moderate growth in the near term. Their strategy includes a commitment to lowering leverage and considering a high-yield financing option to refinance existing debt. The analyst from Stifel noted these factors in their commentary while deciding to maintain the current Hold rating on USAC stock.

USAC’s first-quarter results were in line with Stifel’s predictions, which may have influenced the decision to keep the Hold rating unchanged. With a market capitalization of $2.83 billion and EBITDA of $576.66 million in the last twelve months, the company has demonstrated solid financial performance, including revenue growth of 10.03%. The company’s emphasis on its significant presence in the Northeast, where it retains a large portion of its horsepower capacity, was underscored as a key asset amid fluctuating oil prices.

In addition to growth and leverage strategies, USAC’s management is exploring a potential high-yield raise as a means to refinance its debt. This move is indicative of the company’s proactive approach to managing its financial health and ensuring long-term stability. For a comprehensive analysis of USAC’s financial health and growth prospects, investors can access the detailed Pro Research Report available on InvestingPro, which covers over 1,400 US stocks with expert insights and actionable intelligence.

In conclusion, Stifel’s revised price target of $27.00, down from $28.00, reflects a modest adjustment based on USAC’s recent quarter performance and forward-looking strategies. The firm’s analysts continue to advise a Hold position on the stock, signaling a neutral stance as the company navigates its growth and debt management plans.

In other recent news, USA Compression Partners reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, revealing a shortfall in earnings per share (EPS) compared to market expectations. The company posted an EPS of $0.14, falling short of the forecasted $0.23. However, revenue slightly exceeded expectations, coming in at $245.2 million against a forecast of $244.78 million. Despite the earnings miss, the company maintained strong operational performance with a fleet utilization rate of 94.4%. The company also reaffirmed its 2025 guidance, projecting adjusted EBITDA between $590 million and $610 million, and distributable cash flow ranging from $350 million to $370 million.

USA Compression Partners continues to navigate market uncertainties, including tariff impacts on parts and materials, which could affect cost structures. The company remains vigilant in monitoring these developments, as highlighted by CEO Clint Green. On the financial front, USA Compression is actively evaluating proposals for asset-backed loan refinancing, with plans to move forward in the near term. Despite the challenges, the company has expressed confidence in its resilience, noting that the market is in better shape compared to previous downturns, as mentioned by CFO Chris Paulson.

Additionally, USA Compression has completed its idle to active initiative, which commenced early last year, and continues to focus on acquiring large horsepower to support its growth strategy. The company has ordered approximately 40,000 new horsepower, with the majority expected to be delivered before year-end. USA Compression’s management has also highlighted the promotion of Chris Wasson to Chief Operating Officer, recognizing his long-standing leadership in the Permian operations.

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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