Stifel reiterates buy rating on EPAM Systems stock citing conservative outlook

Published 17/06/2025, 12:56
Stifel reiterates buy rating on EPAM Systems stock citing conservative outlook

Stifel maintained its buy rating and $246.00 price target on EPAM Systems (NYSE:EPAM) following investor meetings with the company’s incoming and outgoing executives in New York last week. Currently trading at $172.58, the stock appears undervalued according to InvestingPro analysis, with 14 analysts recently revising their earnings estimates upward for the upcoming period.

The research firm noted that EPAM’s 2025 guidance and 2026 consensus estimates appear conservative if economic stability continues, suggesting potential upside for the software engineering services provider. Stifel identified the net impact of artificial intelligence on industry growth as a primary concern affecting the stock’s performance. InvestingPro data shows the company maintains strong financial health with a 3.06x current ratio and more cash than debt on its balance sheet, positioning it well for future growth opportunities.

According to Stifel, industry and third-party consultants suggest AI-driven productivity gains in software development range from 3-10% over time, but management and other industry participants emphasize that AI-related incremental workloads being discussed with clients "far exceed deflationary headwinds from productivity gains."

The firm reported no meaningful change in end markets with the exception of two client-specific situations that were reflected in guidance, adding that revenue headwinds from geographic expansion are largely in the "rear view mirror."

Stifel characterized EPAM’s current valuation as "historically low" at 14 times 2026 earnings estimates, representing a 35% discount to Accenture (NYSE:ACN), which it views as an attractive entry point for a double-digit grower. The stock’s current P/E ratio of 23.89x reflects this conservative valuation, while management’s aggressive share buyback program signals confidence in the company’s future. For deeper insights into EPAM’s valuation metrics and growth potential, investors can access the comprehensive Pro Research Report available on InvestingPro.

In other recent news, EPAM Systems reported impressive first-quarter 2025 earnings, surpassing expectations with an earnings per share (EPS) of $2.41 against a forecast of $2.29, and revenue reaching $1.3 billion, exceeding the anticipated $1.28 billion. The company has raised its full-year revenue guidance to a range of 11.5% to 14.5%, with expectations for organic constant currency growth between 2% and 5%. Analysts from Mizuho (NYSE:MFG) and TD Cowen have responded to these results by adjusting their price targets for EPAM Systems. Mizuho raised its target to $224 while maintaining an Outperform rating, highlighting the company’s improved financial forecast and strategic initiatives like the "Great Relocation" of delivery professionals.

Similarly, TD Cowen increased its price target to $198 from $180, although it maintained a Hold rating. The firm recognized EPAM’s solid first-quarter performance and a promising outlook for the second quarter, noting that the company is effectively managing Wall Street expectations amid macroeconomic volatility. EPAM Systems’ focus on AI-related services and strategic partnerships with tech giants like Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Cloud and AWS has bolstered its market position, contributing to its positive financial performance.

These developments reflect EPAM Systems’ resilience and adaptability in a challenging economic environment, with analysts acknowledging the company’s strategic moves and potential for continued growth in the coming quarters.

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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