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On Wednesday, shares of Vulcan Materials Company (NYSE:VMC) saw a modest increase following a reiteration of a Buy rating and a $315.00 price target by Truist Securities. The firm’s analysts highlighted Vulcan’s aggregate pricing, which surpassed expectations and contributed to results that exceeded Wall Street estimates. The company’s stock rose 1% while the S&P 500 index remained flat.
The positive performance can be attributed to the aggregate pricing upside, which played a significant role in lifting Vulcan’s results. With annual revenue of $7.4 billion and a "GREAT" Financial Health Score from InvestingPro, the company maintains a strong market position. Truist analysts pointed out that the guidance for the next year, excluding recent acquisitions, was in line with market expectations. However, they anticipate potential growth in organic volume guidance if weather conditions normalize.
Vulcan Materials has completed two acquisitions recently, which are expected to contribute to a 7% increase in EBITDA, surpassing initial projections. The analysts at Truist expressed optimism about the company’s future, particularly in light of the expected increase in spending from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
The analyst’s comment emphasized the potential for rising estimates, stating, "We see upside to the flattish organic volume guidance if weather returns to normal. Note the company completed two acquisitions that are contributing a 7% rise in EBITDA which is much more than we had initially thought. We remain Buy rated with our bias towards rising estimates with the bulk of IIJA spending on the horizon."
Investors responded positively to the news, reflecting confidence in Vulcan Materials’ growth trajectory and its ability to capitalize on upcoming infrastructure investments. The company’s focus on strategic acquisitions and its strong pricing strategy are key factors contributing to its favorable outlook as projected by Truist Securities. Notable strengths include a 55-year track record of maintaining dividends and 11 consecutive years of dividend increases. InvestingPro subscribers can access over 10 additional ProTips and comprehensive analysis through the Pro Research Report, offering deeper insights into Vulcan Materials’ financial health and growth prospects.
In other recent news, Vulcan Materials Company reported a strong fourth quarter for 2024, surpassing expectations with an earnings per share (EPS) of $2.17, compared to the forecasted $1.78. The company also exceeded revenue projections, reporting $1.85 billion against a forecast of $1.81 billion. Jefferies analyst Philip Ng raised the price target for Vulcan Materials to $335, maintaining a Buy rating, highlighting the company’s ability to grow its EBITDA by 12% despite flat organic volumes. Loop Capital also increased its price target to $325, citing Vulcan’s strong fourth-quarter performance and effective cost control measures.
DA Davidson maintained its Buy rating on Vulcan Materials with a target of $325, noting the company’s resilience in margins and bottom-line performance despite weaker volumes. The analyst emphasized the ongoing support from infrastructure markets and the potential for growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions. Vulcan Materials’ financial outlook for 2025 includes a projected adjusted EBITDA between $2.35 billion and $2.55 billion, with anticipated price increases and shipment growth.
The company’s recent acquisitions are expected to contribute significantly to its financial performance, with $150 million in EBITDA contributions anticipated from the acquisitions of Wake Stone and Superior Ready Mix. Analysts have commended Vulcan Materials for its operational discipline and pricing strength, which are expected to drive future growth. These developments reflect a positive outlook for Vulcan Materials as it navigates the challenges in the construction sector.
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