Street Calls of the Week
Investing.com - Stifel has reiterated its Buy rating on Align Technology (NASDAQ:ALGN) while maintaining its price target of $200.00. The stock, currently trading at $132.57, is near its 52-week low of $127.70, despite maintaining a GOOD financial health score according to InvestingPro analysis.
The research firm noted that Align Technology is implementing new pricing plans aimed at increasing Teen share-of-chair and reducing provider defections, though some investors sought more clarity on third-quarter 2025 trends. With 12 analysts recently revising earnings estimates downward, InvestingPro data suggests careful monitoring of the company’s performance is warranted.
Align will also attempt to apply successful strategies from Dental Service Organizations—including scanning, visualization, and financing options—to its extensive network of independent practices to accelerate case volume growth.
Stifel acknowledged investor concerns about the implied fourth-quarter 2025 guidance but indicated these uncertainties are already reflected in the company’s current valuation.
The firm believes risk/reward for Align Technology is "skewed to the upside" if the second half of 2025 meets management expectations and 2026 operating margin expansion helps maintain earnings per share estimates. Trading at a P/E ratio of 21.86 and showing strong fundamentals with a 70% gross profit margin, InvestingPro analysis indicates the stock may be undervalued relative to its Fair Value, with additional insights available in the comprehensive Pro Research Report.
In other recent news, Align Technology reported disappointing second-quarter results, missing sales expectations and subsequently lowering its full-year guidance. This development has had ripple effects, with Barclays analyst Hassan Al-Wakeel pointing out a "negative read-across" for competitors like Straumann. In response to these results, Morgan Stanley downgraded Align Technology from Overweight to Equalweight, significantly reducing its price target from $249.00 to $154.00 due to growth concerns. Meanwhile, Mizuho also adjusted its price target for Align Technology, lowering it from $245.00 to $210.00, while maintaining an Outperform rating, citing weaker patient conversion trends.
On a different note, Stifel reiterated its Buy rating on Align Technology, maintaining a price target of $200.00, following discussions on new pricing strategies that include expanding the aligner options available to providers. Additionally, Align Technology disclosed plans to terminate the employment of Stuart Hockridge, Executive Vice President of Global Human Resources, effective May 2026. The termination is not for cause and aligns with the terms outlined in his employment agreement. These recent developments highlight a mix of strategic adjustments and financial challenges for Align Technology.
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