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On Friday, Jefferies maintained a Buy rating on Wheaton Precious Metals (NYSE:WPM) and increased the company's price target to $67 from the previous $62. The firm anticipates Wheaton Precious Metals to report a slight increase in quarter-over-quarter free cash flow due to higher realized commodity prices. However, earnings per share (EPS) are expected to be lower because of taxes.
The analyst from Jefferies predicts that Wheaton Precious Metals will disclose a tax expense in its second-quarter earnings. This expense will apply to both the second quarter and retroactively to the first quarter, as a consequence of the delayed implementation of GMT legislation.
The forecast also suggests a temporary dip in Gold Equivalent Ounce (GEO) production during the second quarter, attributed to reduced output at Penasquito, Salobo, and Constancia mines. Nevertheless, a rebound is expected in the latter half of the year, with the fourth quarter anticipated to be particularly strong, as GEO production is estimated to be approximately 52% weighted towards the second half of the year.
The report also notes that the second quarter is likely to include a cash outflow that represents dividends paid year-to-date. Additionally, a decision regarding the acceleration of the Blackwater Phase 2 expansion project is expected in the second half of 2024. The first gold pour from this project remains on track for the latter half of 2024.
In other recent news, Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. has been making notable strides in the precious metals industry. The company's Q1 2024 financial results showcased significant operating cash flow of $220 million and net earnings exceeding $160 million. This robust performance, coupled with an adjusted earnings per share of $0.36 in the fourth quarter of 2023, underscores Wheaton's operational efficiency and financial resilience.
The company has also made strategic investments, including a $450 million upfront payment for the Platreef and Kudz Ze Kayah streams with Orion Resource Partners. Wheaton maintains strong liquidity, with $2.5 billion available and $306 million in cash, supporting its growth initiatives and dividend payments.
Analysts from BMO Capital Markets have given Wheaton an Outperform rating, reflecting a positive market sentiment towards the company's prospects. The recent resolution of the strike at Newmont's Peñasquito mine and advancements at Vale's Voisey's Bay underground project have further bolstered Wheaton's asset portfolio.
Despite challenges such as potential global minimum taxes and industry volatility, Wheaton continues to seek new streaming opportunities and maintains a positive outlook for the Salobo asset and the Mineral Park project.
InvestingPro Insights
Following Jefferies' optimistic outlook on Wheaton Precious Metals, the latest data from InvestingPro further enriches the investment picture. Wheaton Precious Metals is trading at a high earnings multiple, with a P/E ratio of 45.53 and an adjusted P/E ratio for the last twelve months as of Q1 2024 at 45.89. Despite the premium valuation, the company's stock has shown low price volatility, which may appeal to investors looking for stability in the precious metals sector. Additionally, the company's solid track record of maintaining dividend payments for 14 consecutive years is reflected in a dividend yield of 1.05%, with the last dividend increase by 3.33%.
InvestingPro further highlights that Wheaton Precious Metals has a strong financial foundation, with liquid assets surpassing short-term obligations and a moderate level of debt. This positions the company well to handle any temporary fluctuations in earnings or production levels. For investors considering this stock, there are more InvestingPro Tips available, including insights into the company's profitability and stock performance over various timeframes. To explore these tips and enhance your investment strategy, visit https://www.investing.com/pro/WPM and use the coupon code PRONEWS24 to get up to 10% off a yearly Pro and a yearly or biyearly Pro+ subscription. With 13 additional InvestingPro Tips available, investors can gain a comprehensive understanding of Wheaton Precious Metals' investment potential.
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