Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac shares tumble after conservatorship comments
Viatris Inc. (NASDAQ:VTRS), a global healthcare company, saw its stock price touch a 52-week low, dipping to $8.07. According to InvestingPro analysis, the stock appears undervalued, with a significant 5.88% dividend yield and strong free cash flow metrics supporting its valuation. This latest price level reflects a significant downturn for the company, which has experienced a 1-year change with a decrease of 33.9%. Investors are closely monitoring Viatris as it navigates through a challenging market environment, with the stock’s performance raising concerns about the company’s near-term prospects. The 52-week low serves as a critical indicator for the market participants, who are now assessing the potential for Viatris to rebound from this trough or if the company may face further headwinds. Notably, management has shown confidence through aggressive share buybacks, and InvestingPro data indicates the stock is in oversold territory, with analysts projecting profitability this year.
In other recent news, Viatris Inc. reported its fourth-quarter earnings for 2024, revealing an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.54, which fell short of the $0.58 anticipated by analysts. Revenue also missed expectations, coming in at $3.52 billion against a projected $3.62 billion. These results have raised concerns among investors about the company’s future growth prospects. Additionally, S&P Global Ratings downgraded Viatris’ corporate credit rating to ’BB+’ from ’BBB-’ due to high leverage expectations linked to issues at the Indore manufacturing facility in India, which is expected to impact EBITDA by $350 million to $400 million.
Furthermore, Viatris has faced adjustments in its stock price targets from analysts. Jefferies lowered the stock price target to $13 while maintaining a Buy rating, citing negative revenue and EBITDA guidance despite signs of operational improvement. Piper Sandler also reduced its price target to $10, maintaining a neutral stance, highlighting concerns over the lack of growth catalysts. The company has announced a share repurchase program valued between $500 million and $650 million as part of its strategic initiatives.
Despite the challenges, Viatris has committed to deleveraging and enhancing shareholder returns, supported by strong annual free cash flow of over $2 billion. The company continues to focus on debt reduction and cost optimization, having retired approximately $3.7 billion in debt and returned $825 million to shareholders in 2024. Viatris anticipates a slight revenue decline in 2025, influenced by the impact of the Indore facility issues and ongoing strategic priorities.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.