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Wolfe Research maintained its outperform rating on Graco Inc . (NYSE:GGG) stock Wednesday. The research firm’s analyst Nigel Coe reaffirmed the positive outlook for the fluid handling equipment manufacturer, which currently trades at $83.60 per share. According to InvestingPro data, the company maintains impressive gross profit margins of 52.8% and has shown strong financial discipline with more cash than debt on its balance sheet.
The rating continuation comes as Graco continues to navigate market conditions in its industrial and contractor segments. The company, known for its pumps, spray equipment, and fluid handling systems, serves diverse markets including construction, manufacturing, and processing industries. With a market capitalization of nearly $14 billion, Graco has demonstrated remarkable shareholder commitment, maintaining dividend payments for 55 consecutive years.
Graco reported first-quarter 2025 results in April, with performance across its business divisions showing resilience despite mixed economic signals in some of its end markets. The Minnesota-based manufacturer has maintained its focus on new product development and geographic expansion. InvestingPro analysis reveals the company’s strong financial health, with liquid assets exceeding short-term obligations and robust cash flows sufficiently covering interest payments. Discover 10+ additional exclusive insights about Graco with an InvestingPro subscription.
The company’s stock has traded in a relatively stable range over recent months, with investors watching for signs of recovery in construction and industrial spending. Graco’s management has emphasized its continued investment in innovation and manufacturing capabilities.
Wolfe Research’s maintained outperform rating suggests confidence in Graco’s business fundamentals and competitive position in the fluid handling equipment market. The firm did not specify a price target in its latest analysis of the company.
In other recent news, Graco Inc. reported its first-quarter 2024 earnings, surpassing analysts’ expectations with an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.72, against the forecasted $0.67. The company also recorded revenue of $528 million, slightly above the expected $526.95 million. Despite these positive financial results, the company’s stock experienced a slight dip, reflecting broader market uncertainties. In other developments, Graco announced plans to consolidate its Minnesota operations, moving from its Riverside Minneapolis site to campuses in Rogers, Dayton, and Anoka, aiming to enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, Graco’s shareholders approved executive pay and elected directors during the recent Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The company also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.275 per share, underscoring its commitment to returning value to shareholders. These recent developments reflect Graco’s ongoing strategic initiatives and financial health.
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