Stryker shares tumble despite strong Q2 results and raised guidance
Tuesday, Baird reiterated a Neutral rating on Veralto Corp. (NYSE: VLTO), with a steady price target of $112.00. The firm's stance remains unchanged following Veralto's recent announcement of acquiring TraceGains, a provider of software solutions that enhance supply chain traceability and compliance for food and beverage customers. The acquisition is seen as a strategic fit for Veralto, adding a complementary customer base and an attractive offering.
TraceGains is recognized for its strong financial performance, boasting a gross margin of approximately 80%, with around 95% of its revenue being recurring. The company also has a track record of over 20% revenue growth in compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and is projected to achieve double-digit returns on invested capital (ROIC) by the sixth year post-acquisition. These figures suggest a promising financial and return profile for the combined entity.
The acquisition is an essential move for Veralto as it aims to unlock what is described as an "M&A flywheel." This strategic approach has been well-telegraphed, and Veralto is reported to have significant capacity for further mergers and acquisitions. The addition of TraceGains is expected to fortify Veralto's market position by expanding its service offerings and enhancing its long-term growth prospects.
Despite the potential benefits of the acquisition, Baird suggests that current estimates for Veralto's performance are likely to continue trending upward. The firm acknowledges the attractive long-term narrative surrounding Veralto but indicates a preference for more favorable entry points before adopting a more constructive outlook on the stock.
In summary, while the acquisition of TraceGains by Veralto appears to align strategically and financially with the company's growth objectives, Baird advises investors to watch for market pullbacks as an opportunity to reassess their position on Veralto shares.
In other recent news, Veralto Corp. has been making notable strides in its financial performance. The company reported robust second quarter 2024 earnings, with net sales reaching $1.29 billion, a 3.8% increase in core sales, and a 7% rise in gross profit to $774 million. The growth was primarily driven by the Water Quality and Product Quality Indicator (PQI) segments. Furthermore, Veralto raised its full-year adjusted earnings per share guidance to between $3.37 and $3.45 per share, reflecting confidence in its markets and execution.
Several analyst firms have adjusted their outlook on Veralto. UBS initiated coverage on the stock with a Neutral rating, citing the company's potential for steady growth. TD Cowen and BMO Capital Markets raised their price targets following the company's solid performance and market recovery. Baird and RBC Capital Markets also increased their price targets after Veralto's impressive second-quarter performance.
Recent developments suggest that Veralto's PQI segment is expected to see improved equipment sales in the second half of 2024, contributing to stronger growth. The company's Water Quality division has also been delivering steady results, meeting market expectations.
InvestingPro Insights
Recent data from InvestingPro sheds additional light on Veralto Corp.'s financial position and market performance. The company boasts a market capitalization of $27.46 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the industry. Veralto's impressive gross profit margin of 58.89% for the last twelve months as of Q2 2024 aligns with the high-margin profile of its recent acquisition, TraceGains.
InvestingPro Tips highlight Veralto's strong financial health, noting that its liquid assets exceed short-term obligations, which could provide flexibility for future acquisitions. The company's stock has shown robust performance, with a 26.97% price total return over the past six months, indicating investor confidence in its growth strategy.
It's worth noting that Veralto is trading at a high earnings multiple, with a P/E ratio of 32.88. This valuation suggests that investors are pricing in expectations for continued growth, possibly influenced by strategic moves like the TraceGains acquisition.
For investors seeking a more comprehensive analysis, InvestingPro offers 12 additional tips on Veralto, providing deeper insights into the company's financial health and market position.
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