On Wednesday, Deutsche Bank updated its financial model for Corning Incorporated (NYSE:GLW) stock, following the company's first-quarter results for 2024, which surpassed expectations. The firm's analyst has increased the 12-month price target for Corning's stock from $33.00 to $35.00, while maintaining a Hold rating.
Corning has reportedly navigated past a low point in revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) in the first quarter of 2024. The company's management has indicated positive trends for the second quarter in its major segments, Optical and Display, which contribute over 55% of Corning's core revenue.
Based on these trends, Deutsche Bank now forecasts a 5% quarter-over-quarter rise in second-quarter revenues for Corning, which is expected to lead to a significant increase in EPS, estimated at $0.45 compared to $0.38 in the first quarter.
The analyst notes that as Corning's revenue recovery gains momentum, the potential for the company's stock may lie in the enhanced impact on margins and free cash flow (FCF) due to pricing and cost optimization efforts made in recent times. This could, in turn, lead to the possibility of increased returns to shareholders.
Despite the optimistic outlook on Corning's financial performance, the Hold rating reflects a limited upside potential, less than 5%, to the new price target. Additionally, there seems to be little room for the stock to outperform the consensus estimates on the street.
The updated earnings estimates by Deutsche Bank are in line with the general market consensus, which could see an upward revision after the stronger-than-anticipated first-quarter results.
Corning's shares are trading at 16 times the estimated core EPS for 2025 and 20 times the price to free cash flow (P/FCF). The new price target of $35.00 is based on a 17 times multiple of the projected 2025 earnings per share and a 21 times multiple of the P/FCF.
InvestingPro Insights
Corning Incorporated's (NYSE:GLW) recent performance has caught the attention of analysts and investors alike. With a market capitalization of $27.34 billion and a notable price uptick of 27.53% over the last six months, the company is demonstrating its resilience in the market. The InvestingPro Tips highlight Corning's consistent dividend growth, with the company having raised its dividend for 13 consecutive years and maintained dividend payments for 18 consecutive years, showcasing a strong commitment to shareholder returns. Additionally, net income is expected to grow this year, reinforcing the positive sentiment around the company's future profitability.
The current P/E ratio stands at 29.73, reflecting a high earnings multiple that suggests investors may be anticipating growth. Despite a revenue decline of 11.28% in the last twelve months as of Q1 2023, Corning's gross profit margin remains robust at 33.48%, indicating effective cost management. The company's dividend yield is also attractive at 3.36%, and with a fair value estimation by analysts at $35 and InvestingPro's fair value slightly higher at $35.47, it appears there is potential for the stock to reach these targets.
For those who seek a deeper analysis and additional insights, there are more InvestingPro Tips available that could further inform investment decisions regarding Corning. To explore these valuable insights, visit https://www.investing.com/pro/GLW and consider using the coupon code PRONEWS24 to receive an additional 10% off a yearly or biyearly Pro and Pro+ subscription.
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