Gain detailed insights into the trading activity of Congress members for Zoom Communications on our government trades page. Stay updated on how elected officials are investing in ZM.

Zoom Communications - Government Trades

Zoom Video Comms

Zoom Video Communications provides a communications platform that connects people through video, voice, chat, and content sharing. The company's cloud-native platform enables face-to-face video and connects users across various devices and locations in a single meeting. Zoom, which was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in San Jose, California, serves companies of all sizes from all industries around the world.

Zoom Video Communications

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Zoom Communications's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NYSE">ZM</a>) short percent of float has fallen 5.2% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 8.11 million shares sold short, which is 3.1% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.27 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Zoom Communications Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737393318_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Zoom Communications has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Zoom Communications's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Zoom Communications's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.27%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Looking Into Zoom Communications's Recent Short Interest

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Thomas Blakey initiates coverage on Zoom Communications (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) with a Neutral rating and announces Price Target of $87.

Initiation

Cantor Fitzgerald Initiates Coverage On Zoom Communications with Neutral Rating, Announces Price Target of $87

In the last three months, 19 analysts have published ratings on Zoom Communications (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>), offering a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">10</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">8</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Zoom Communications, presenting an average target of $90.84, a high estimate of $115.00, and a low estimate of $70.00. This current average reflects an increase of 18.79% from the previous average price target of $76.47. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736510447_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Decoding Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Look</h2>
The perception of Zoom Communications by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Michael Turrin</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Samad Samana</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Meta Marshall</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$96.00</td>
<td>$86.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ryan Macwilliams</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Siti Panigrahi</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catharine Trebnick</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Harrigan</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$97.00</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peter Levine</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peter Weed</td>
<td>Bernstein</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikolay Beliov</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karl Keirstead</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rishi Jaluria</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kash Rangan</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$86.00</td>
<td>$72.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parker Lane</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Turrin</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Fish</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catharine Trebnick</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Meta Marshall</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$86.00</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Daniel Ives</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Zoom Communications. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts unravel qualitative evaluations for stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings offer insights into expectations for the relative performance of Zoom Communications compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts set price targets as an estimate of a stock's future value. Comparing the current and prior price targets provides insight into how analysts' expectations have changed over time. This information can be valuable for investors seeking to understand consensus views on the stock's potential future performance.</li>
</ul>
Understanding these analyst evaluations alongside key financial indicators can offer valuable insights into Zoom Communications's market standing. Stay informed and make well-considered decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZM/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Zoom Communications analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Zoom Communications</h2>
Zoom Video Communications provides a communications platform that connects people through video, voice, chat, and content sharing. The company's cloud-native platform enables face-to-face video and connects users across various devices and locations in a single meeting. Zoom, which was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in San Jose, California, serves companies of all sizes from all industries around the world.
<h3>Financial Milestones: Zoom Communications's Journey</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization is below the industry average, suggesting that it is relatively smaller compared to peers. This could be due to various factors, including perceived growth potential or operational scale.
Revenue Growth: Zoom Communications's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 31 October, 2024, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 3.59%. This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the revenue growth lags behind its industry peers. The company achieved a growth rate lower than the average among peers in Information Technology sector.
Net Margin: Zoom Communications's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 17.58%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Zoom Communications's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 2.41%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Zoom Communications's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 1.95% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: Zoom Communications's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.01, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>The Basics of Analyst Ratings</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Beyond their standard evaluations, some analysts contribute predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, furnishing investors with additional guidance. Users of analyst ratings should be mindful that this specialized advice is shaped by human perspectives and may be subject to variability.
Breaking: Wall Street's Next Big Mover
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Expectations For Zoom Communications's Future

Needham analyst Ryan Koontz reiterates Zoom Communications (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) from Hold to Hold.

Needham Reiterates Hold on Zoom Communicationsto Hold

Telehealth companies including Hims &amp; Hers, Sesame and Noom have flocked to Facebook and Instagram to promote their booming weight loss drugs.
But pressure from regulators concerned about consumers' health data privacy has prompted Meta Platforms to limit how advertisers target users with health-related ads, starting this month. That is upending weight loss campaigns in the middle of the New Year's resolution marketing season. And more broadly, marketers are scrambling to figure out exactly what kind of weight loss and other health-related products are affected, and trying out workarounds for the new rules.
<a href="https://www.theinformation.com/articles/meta-ad-changes-threaten-telehealths-weight-loss-boom" title="https://www.theinformation.com/articles/meta-ad-changes-threaten-telehealths-weight-loss-boom">https://www.theinformation.com/articles/meta-ad-changes-threaten-telehealths-weight-loss-boom</a>
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DRIO

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HIMS

TDOC

'Meta Ad Changes Threaten Telehealth's Weight Loss Boom' - The Information

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Goldman Sachs raised the price target for SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEDG#NASDAQ">SEDG</a>) from $19 to $21. Goldman Sachs analyst Brian Lee maintained a Buy rating. SolarEdge shares closed at $16.29 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SEDG/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>UBS slashed The Wendy&#8217;s Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) price target from $20 to $17. UBS analyst Dennis Geiger maintained a Neutral rating. Wendy&#8217;s shares closed at $15.81 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>RBC Capital raised the price target for Carvana Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NASDAQ">CVNA</a>) from $270 to $280. RBC Capital analyst Brad Erickson upgraded the stock from Sector Perform to Outperform. Carvana shares closed at $188.85 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVNA/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Piper Sandler increased the price target for Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) from $245 to $285. Piper Sandler analyst Patrick Moley maintained a Neutral rating. Coinbase shares closed at $287.76 on Monday. See how other analysts view this stock.</li>
<li>Roth MKM boosted fuboTV Inc. (NYSE FUBO) price target from $2 to $4.75. Roth MKM analyst Darren Aftahi reiterated a Neutral rating. fuboTV shares settled at $5.06 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSFT/analyst-ratings">See how other </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FUBO/analyst-ratings">analysts </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSFT/analyst-ratings">view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Oppenheimer raised Shake Shack Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) price target from $145 to $155. Oppenheimer analyst Brian Bittner maintained an Outperform rating. Shake Shack shares closed at $132.06 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SHAK/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Wells Fargo raised Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) price target from $70 to $85. Wells Fargo analyst Michael Turrin upgraded the stock from Underweight to Equal-Weight. Zoom shares closed at $82.34 on Monday.  <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>MoffettNathanson cut the price target for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) from $202 to $188. MoffettNathanson analyst Craig Moffett downgraded the stock from Neutral to Sell. Apple shares settled at $245.00 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AAPL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Evercore ISI Group cut The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>) price target from $38 to $35. Evercore ISI Group analyst David Palmer downgraded the stock from Outperform to In-Line. Kraft Heinz shares closed at $30.05 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/KHC/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>UBS increased United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>) price target from $139 to $140. UBS analyst Thomas Wadewitz maintained a Buy rating. United Airlines shares closed at $98.57 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UAL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
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Wells Fargo analyst Michael Turrin upgrades Zoom Communications (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) from Underweight to Equal-Weight and raises the price target from $70 to $85.

Wells Fargo Upgrades Zoom Communications to Equal-Weight, Raises Price Target to $85

Zoom Communications's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NYSE">ZM</a>) short percent of float has fallen 5.49% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 8.55 million shares sold short, which is 3.27% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.95 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Zoom Communications Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1735739120_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Zoom Communications has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Zoom Communications's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Zoom Communications's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.02%, which means the company has more short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Peering Into Zoom Communications's Recent Short Interest

On CNBC's &#8220;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2024/12/23/final-trades-zoom-video-lockheed-martin-and-the-iwd.html">Halftime Report Final Trades</a>,&#8221; Joseph M. Terranova of Virtus Investment Partners said Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) is one of his favorite <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/24/11/42176089/zoom-communications-q3-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-online-churn-hits-all-time-low-company-name-change-and-more">stocks to own in 2025</a>.
On Nov. 25, Zoom reported third-quarter revenue of $1.18 billion, beating the consensus estimate of $1.16 billion. The communications company reported third-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.38 per share, beating analyst estimates of $1.31 per share.
On Dec. 19, Jefferies analyst Samad Samana upgraded Zoom Communications from Hold to Buy and raised the price target from $85 to $100.
Jim Lebenthal of Cerity Partners named Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) as his final trade.
On Dec. 16, Lockheed Martin revealed the launch of the seventh Lockheed Martin-designed and built Global Positioning System (GPS) III satellite, GPS III SV07, at 7:52 p.m. ET. The GPS III SV07 spacecraft, built at Lockheed Martin's Littleton, Colorado, facility, was transported by ground to its Florida launch site after its usual military aircraft was reassigned <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42527692/mission-accomplished-lockheed-martins-gps-iii-sv07-successfully-deployed">for hurricane relief efforts.</a>
Don't forget to check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a>
Rob Sechan of NewEdge Wealth picked iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWD#NYSE">IWD</a>).
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Zoom shares fell by 0.4% to close at $85.27 on Monday.</li>
<li>Lockheed Martin shares fell 0.5% to close at $486.49 during Monday's session.</li>
<li>iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF rose 0.2% on Monday.</li>
</ul>
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Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Zoom Communications, Lockheed Martin And More: CNBC's 'Final Trades'

NBC Halftime Report Final Trades: Zoom Communications, Lockheed Martin, iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF

During the last three months, 22 analysts shared their evaluations of Zoom Communications (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>), revealing diverse outlooks from bullish to bearish.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">10</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">8</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Providing deeper insights, analysts have established 12-month price targets, indicating an average target of $89.5, along with a high estimate of $115.00 and a low estimate of $70.00. Observing a 15.56% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $77.45. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734616856_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Zoom Communications by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Samad Samana</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Meta Marshall</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$96.00</td>
<td>$86.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ryan Macwilliams</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Siti Panigrahi</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catharine Trebnick</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Harrigan</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$97.00</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peter Levine</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peter Weed</td>
<td>Bernstein</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikolay Beliov</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karl Keirstead</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rishi Jaluria</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kash Rangan</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$86.00</td>
<td>$72.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parker Lane</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Turrin</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Fish</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catharine Trebnick</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Meta Marshall</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$86.00</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Daniel Ives</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parker Lane</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rishi Jaluria</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Harrigan</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$83.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catharine Trebnick</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
<td>$78.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Zoom Communications. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Providing a comprehensive analysis, analysts offer qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Zoom Communications compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Zoom Communications's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Zoom Communications's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZM/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Zoom Communications analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Zoom Communications</h2>
Zoom Video Communications provides a communications platform that connects people through video, voice, chat, and content sharing. The company's cloud-native platform enables face-to-face video and connects users across various devices and locations in a single meeting. Zoom, which was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in San Jose, California, serves companies of all sizes from all industries around the world.
<h3>Zoom Communications: A Financial Overview</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization is below the industry average, suggesting that it is relatively smaller compared to peers. This could be due to various factors, including perceived growth potential or operational scale.
Revenue Growth: Zoom Communications's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 31 October, 2024, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 3.59%. This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Information Technology sector.
Net Margin: Zoom Communications's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 17.58% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in efficiently using equity capital. With an ROE of 2.41%, the company may need to address challenges in generating satisfactory returns for shareholders.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 1.95%, the company may need to address challenges in generating satisfactory returns from its assets.
Debt Management: Zoom Communications's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.01, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
<h2>Understanding the Relevance of Analyst Ratings</h2>
Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter. 
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

22 Analysts Assess Zoom Communications: What You Need To Know

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Mizuho analyst Brett Linzey upgraded the rating for Stanley Black &amp; Decker, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SWK#NYSE">SWK</a>) from Neutral to Outperform and maintained the price target of $110. Stanley Black &amp; Decker shares closed at $79.07 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SWK/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stoc</a>k.</li>
<li>Jefferies analyst Samad Samana upgraded Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) from Hold to Buy and raised the price target from $85 to $100. Zoom shares closed at $82.05 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Deutsche Bank analyst Matt Niknam upgraded the rating for Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HPE#NYSE">HPE</a>) from Hold to Buy and maintained the price target of $25. Hewlett Packard shares closed at $20.59 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HPE/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Keybanc analyst Eric Heath upgraded Okta, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OKTA#NASDAQ">OKTA</a>) from Sector Weight to Overweight and announced a $115 price target. Okta shares closed at $81.41 on Wednesday. See how other analysts view this stock.</li>
<li>Telsey Advisory Group analyst Cristina Fernandez upgraded the rating for RH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RH#NYSE">RH</a>) from Market Perform to Outperform and raised the price target from $485 to $500. RH shares closed at $396.39 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RH/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
</ul>
Considering buying ZM stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
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Jefferies analyst Samad Samana upgrades Zoom Communications (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) from Hold to Buy and raises the price target from $85 to $100.

Jefferies Upgrades Zoom Communications to Buy, Raises Price Target to $100

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
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<li>Wells Fargo boosted the price target for Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRGP#NYSE">TRGP</a>) from $190 to $204. Wells Fargo analyst Michael Blum maintained an Overweight rating. Targa Resources shares closed at $181.22 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TRGP/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>JMP Securities cut Bicycle Therapeutics plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BCYC#NASDAQ">BCYC</a>) price target from $32 to $26. JMP Securities analyst Reni Benjamin maintained a Market Outperform rating. Bicycle Therapeutics shares settled at $15.14 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BCYC/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Cantor Fitzgerald raised Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACHR#NYSE">ACHR</a>) price target from $10 to $13. Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Andres Sheppard maintained an Overweight rating. Archer Aviation shares closed at $9.09 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ACHR/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Morgan Stanley boosted Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) price target from $86 to $96. Morgan Stanley analyst Meta Marshall maintained an Equal-Weight rating. Zoom Communications shares closed at $84.60 on Tuesday.  <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Alliance Global Partners raised Vitesse Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VTS#NYSE">VTS</a>) price target from $26 to $29. Alliance Global Partners analyst Jeff Grampp upgraded the stock from Neutral to Buy. Vitesse Energy shares closed at $26.19 on Tuesday. See how other analysts view this stock.</li>
<li>B of A Securities cut the price target for 4D Molecular Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDMT#NASDAQ">FDMT</a>) from $79 to $46. B of A Securities analyst Tazeen Ahmad maintained a Buy rating. 4D Molecular Therapeutics shares settled at $6.32 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FDMT/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>JP Morgan raised Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) price target from $250 to $280. JP Morgan analyst Doug Anmuth maintained an Overweight rating. Amazon shares closed at $231.15 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMZN/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>JP Morgan increased Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) price target from $212 to $232. JP Morgan analyst Doug Anmuth maintained an Overweight rating. Alphabet shares closed at $195.42 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GOOGL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
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Morgan Stanley analyst Meta Marshall maintains Zoom Communications (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) with a Equal-Weight and raises the price target from $86 to $96.

Morgan Stanley Maintains Equal-Weight on Zoom Communications, Raises Price Target to $96

Live On CNBC, Joe Terranova Announces Bought Zoom Communications

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Hershey Trust Co., holding a hefty 80% of the voting power at The Hershey Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HSY#NYSE">HSY</a>), recently told Mondelez International, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDLZ#NASDAQ">MDLZ</a>) to try again after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42398159/whats-going-on-with-hershey-stock-monday">rejecting their preliminary bid</a>, calling it &#8220;too low,&#8221; according to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-11/hershey-s-main-owner-said-to-reject-mondelez-s-offer-as-too-low?sref=TBDibEcD&amp;embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a>. Meanwhile, Mondelez is wrestling with skyrocketing cocoa and coffee prices, possibly using that stress as fuel for their merger plans. Cocoa prices have gone through the roof—up over three times in the past year, and there was a 20% leap between October and November alone. Blame it on bad weather in cocoa-growing regions, shrinking global inventories, and the usual supply chain drama. Even BofA Securities analyst Peter T. Galbo jumped in, noting that Hershey looks like a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42483141/hershey-merger-talks-fail">pretty tasty merger target</a> amid all the cocoa chaos​.
Nippon Life Insurance wants to acquire all the shares it doesn&#8217;t already own in Resolution Life Group Holdings. The all-cash deal of $8.2 billion is the largest overseas acquisition ever by a Japanese insurer. It&#8217;s also only the second major deal Nippon Life has announced this year. It's clear that Japanese insurers, like Nippon Life, are on the lookout for opportunities abroad.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/24/12/42376708/nasa-mission-to-land-humans-on-moon-delayed-artemis-3-now-slated-for-mid-2027">NASA Mission To Land Humans On Moon Delayed &#8211; Artemis 3 Now Slated For&#8230;</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Off The Block</h2>
Dow agreed to sell a 40% stake in its U.S. Gulf Coast infrastructure assets to a fund managed by Macquarie Asset Management for $2.4 billion. The new partnership, cheekily named Diamond Infrastructure Solutions, will act as a go-to provider of top-tier infrastructure services for Dow and other industrial clients in Texas and Louisiana.
Novolex, the packaging giant backed by Apollo Global Management, has sealed the deal to acquire Pactiv Evergreen. The price hovers around <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42395976/pactiv-evergreen-realreal-kodiak-sciences-and-other-big-stocks-moving-higher-on-monday">$3.22 billion</a>. The Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/apollo-backed-novolex-to-buy-pactiv-evergreen-for-3-22-billion-0e4815cf">reported</a> that the price tag equates to about $18 per share in cash, which is a sweet 23% premium over the stock's closing price of $14.66 on Dec. 6. It's also about 32% above where Pactiv's stock was trading on Dec. 2, right before rumors started flying about Apollo sniffing around for a takeover. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bankruptcy Block</h2>
The Onion's owners are upset with a bankruptcy judge for nixing their winning bid to buy Alex Jones&#8216; Infowars company. A federal bankruptcy judge declared <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41982446/jokes-on-jones-onion-backed-by-families-of-sandy-hook-victims-buys-info-wars">last month's auction</a> and The Onion's offer "flawed," citing issues like a lack of transparency and an uneven playing field, as well as the failure to maximize value for Jones' creditors. This decision came after Elon Musk <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42229130/elon-musks-x-objects-to-sale-of-conspiracy-theorist-alex-joness-infowars-accounts-to-the-onion-claims-ownership-over-joness-social-media">stirred the pot</a>. Jones vowed that even if Infowars gets shut down, he'll simply move his operations to his backup studios and keep broadcasting via satellites, stations, and of course, Musk&#8217;s X platform. Despite all the drama, the ruling was a rare victory for Jones, who's been battling legal claims from the families of victims from the Sandy Hook tragedy, which he defamed by calling it a hoax.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Notes From The Block</h2>
Fitch Ratings <a href="https://www.fitchratings.com/research/corporate-finance/us-corporate-m-a-could-accelerate-in-2025-credit-implications-mixed-02-12-2024">identified</a> several sectors with ample dry powder and legroom for acquisitions. They include construction, aerospace, gaming and leisure, healthcare, banking, and tech. Benzinga narrowed down which companies, based on growth potential and brand recognition, will likely attract suitors in 2025. These are primarily mid-size firms with market caps between $5 and $12 billion.
<ul>
<li>Dutch Bros Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BROS#NYSE">BROS</a>): This takeover target boasts expanding profits, minimal debt load, strong brand recognition, and potentially untapped markets in the coffee-crazed northeastern U.S.</li>
<li>Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>): On Dec. 10, news broke that Sycamore Partners was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42421855/walgreens-stock-jumps-on-report-of-potential-private-equity-sale-what-you-need-to-know">exploring an acquisition</a> of Walgreens, who intend to take the company private and potentially split up its divisions.</li>
<li>Roku Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROKU#NASDAQ">ROKU</a>): ROKU's market cap is just under $12 billion, which is couch cushion cash for companies like Disney, Netflix, or Apple that could benefit from adding a hardware supplier</li>
<li>Zoom Video Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>): With a $26 billion market cap, Zoom needs a buyer with deep pockets like Google, Microsoft, or Apple, but the company has plenty of positive free cash flow and a sturdy balance sheet.</li>
</ul>
For <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/24/12/42473024/5-merger-and-acquisition-targets-to-buy-before-trump-takes-over">more coverage, click here</a>.
For last week&#8217;s Deal Dispatch, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42378209/deal-dispatch-ubisoft-in-buyout-talks-dental-supplier-explores-sale-beloved-drive-through-goes-bankrupt">click here</a>.
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Merger and acquisitions activity peaked in the United States in 2021, but after SPACs got shellacked and the Biden administration took a harsher view of large-scale mergers, deals became fewer and further between.
This trend is expected to reverse in 2025 as the Federal Reserve lowers interest rates and a more M&amp;A-friendly Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enters the fold. Analysts at Goldman Sachs expect many <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/goldman-sachs-sees-more-larger-162800585.html">larger-scale deals</a> to be explored in the next 12 months, and one may already be underway as Mondelez International (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MLDZ#NASDAQ">MLDZ</a>) is again considering purchasing chocolate conglomerate Hershey Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HSY#NYSE">HSY</a>).
Today, we'll explore five more stocks that could be M&amp;A targets in 2025.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How We Made Our Picks</h2>
Fitch Ratings has identified <a href="https://www.fitchratings.com/research/corporate-finance/us-corporate-m-a-could-accelerate-in-2025-credit-implications-mixed-02-12-2024">several sectors</a> with ample dry powder and legroom for acquisitions, such as homebuilding and construction, aerospace, gaming and leisure, healthcare, banking, and (of course) tech. We looked for companies in these industries and narrowed down our selections based on growth potential, brand recognition, financial position, and number of potential suitors. These are primarily mid-size firms with market caps between $5 and $12 billion.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dutch Bros Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BROS#NYSE">BROS</a>)</h3>
If you're annoyed waiting in long lines at Starbucks or Dunkin&#8217; for your morning coffee, you aren't alone. Even with mobile orders and online promos, drive-thru lines are a constant pressure point for big chains, and as coffee prices continue to rise, customers might consider eschewing the line altogether.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="304" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/Bros-1024x304.png" alt="" class="wp-image-690339" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/Bros-1024x304.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/Bros-300x89.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/Bros-768x228.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/Bros.png 1302w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Artisan coffee chains like Dutch Bros might be a way for bigger companies to gain a competitive edge without sacrificing quality. BROS is a fast-growing coffee chain with over 900 stores in the United States, mainly in the Western part of the country, that prides itself on quick drive-thru experiences and attentive service. While 900 stores might seem quaint to giants like Starbucks, this is impressive growth from the 135 stores in operation in 2009, and the company also sells its name-brand varieties online. Dutch Bros revenue growth has continued its steady ascent, and gross profits have more than doubled since 2020. BROS is a takeover target thanks to these expanding profits, minimal debt load, strong brand recognition, and potentially untapped markets in the coffee-crazed northeastern United States.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>)</h3>
Walgreens has long been a takeover target, but realistic dealmaking scenarios have failed to materialize, and the stock has been stuck in a multi-year decline. While a public acquisition has eluded WBA, 2025 could be the year the company returns to private markets.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="304" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/WBA-1024x304.png" alt="" class="wp-image-690340" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/WBA-1024x304.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/WBA-300x89.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/WBA-768x228.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163047/WBA.png 1302w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
On December 10, news broke that Sycamore Partners was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42421855/walgreens-stock-jumps-on-report-of-potential-private-equity-sale-what-you-need-to-know">exploring an acquisition</a> of Walgreens, who intend to take the company private and potentially split up its divisions. WBA stock has plummeted from a $100 billion market cap in 2015 to just $8.5 billion at the end of 2024, making a private market acquisition much more feasible.
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/earnings-gaps-masterclass-registration/?utm_source=RD-1213">Last Chance Before 2025 Earnings Season</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Roku Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROKU#NASDAQ">ROKU</a>)</h3>
Roku's stock chart will forever be distorted by the COVID-19 pandemic and meme stock craze, which saw its price jump from $100 to $500 in less than a year. When rates began rising in early 2022, ROKU was decimated and has traded under $100 per share for the better part of the last two years. But Netflix and Disney+ have shown that streaming services are the new way Americans watch TV, and Roku provides hardware and software to bring these services into living rooms.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="299" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ROKU-1024x299.png" alt="" class="wp-image-690341" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ROKU-1024x299.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ROKU-300x88.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ROKU-768x224.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ROKU.png 1300w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
ROKU made a record $1.5 billion in gross profits in 2023 thanks to more customers ditching cable for streaming services requiring Roku's products, such as smart TVs, streaming sticks, and the all-new Roku Ultra, the company's fastest and highest-quality device. ROKU's market cap is just under $12 billion, which is couch cushion cash for companies like Disney, Netflix, or Apple that could benefit from adding a hardware supplier that can entice potential customers to sign up for their services (and steer them from the competition).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Zoom Video Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>)</h3>
Another company with a rollercoaster stock chart is Zoom, the video conferencing service that kept people connected during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Zoom found itself in the right place at the right time, and its stock exploded from $76 in January 2020 to nearly $500 by the start of November. But by August 2022, the stock had given up all its COVID gains and settled back under $100.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="300" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ZM-1024x300.png" alt="" class="wp-image-690342" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ZM-1024x300.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ZM-300x88.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ZM-768x225.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163048/ZM.png 1302w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
ZM shares have traded under the $100 mark for most of the last two years, but the previous three months have shown the stock shaking off the cobwebs. In October, ZM's 50-day moving average made a bullish cross over the 200-day MA, and there's optimism that Zoom's infrastructure, brand recognition, and return to positive sales growth will make it a desirable acquisition in 2025. With a $26 billion market cap, Zoom needs a buyer with deep pockets like Google, Microsoft, or Apple, but the company has plenty of positive free cash flow and a sturdy balance sheet.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">SPDR Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>)</h3>
Now, no one is actually looking to acquire a banking ETF. However, the small and mid-size bank sector is ripe for consolidation, and the performance of this index shows how much optimism has flooded the industry since Donald Trump's election night victory. In 2023, the number of FDIC-insured commercial banks <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/184536/number-of-fdic-insured-us-commercial-bank-institutions/">grew to 4,470</a>, the first expansion in more than two decades (over 8,000 banks were insured in 2000). Many market analysts believe this to be a one-time blip and expect consolidation to resume under new FTC leadership.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="300" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163103/KRE-1024x300.png" alt="" class="wp-image-690343" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163103/KRE-1024x300.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163103/KRE-300x88.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163103/KRE-768x225.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12163103/KRE.png 1302w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
The S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF got a massive boost on the Wednesday following the presidential election as a deregulation agenda paves the way for bank mergers and acquisitions. KRE is a relatively small fund with only $5.7 billion in assets under management, but it holds a diverse range of regional banking stocks. Over 140 banks and financial services firms fill the index, ranging from large caps like Truist Financial ($60 billion market cap) to niche local banks like Atlantic Union Bancshares (under $4 billion market cap). Selecting which of the more than 4,000 banks will be acquired is a monumental task; buying this small ETF is a way to take advantage of the overall M&amp;A trend.
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On CNBC's &#8220;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2024/12/11/final-trades-meta-rockwell-zoom-video-and-the-xlu.html">Halftime Report Final Trades</a>,&#8221; Rob Sechan of NewEdge Wealth said Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) continues its near-term momentum.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg sold approximately $88 million worth of company stock over the past week, according to regulatory filings with the U.S. Securities and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42454694/meta-ceo-mark-zuckerberg-sells-88m-in-shares-amid-stocks-2024-surge-of-82">Exchange Commission (SEC) on Wednesday</a>.
Don't forget to check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a> 
Stephanie Link of Hightower picked Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROK#NYSE">ROK</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ROK/analyst-ratings">as her final trade.</a>
On Monday, Keybanc analyst Ken Newman upgraded Rockwell Automation from Sector Weight to Overweight and maintained the price target of $345. Citigroup analyst Andrew Kaplowitz maintained the stock with a Buy and raised the price target from $313 to $345.
Shannon Saccocia of NB Private Wealth named The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) as her final trade.
Joseph M. Terranova of Virtus Investment Partners picked Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>).
On Nov. 25, Zoom reported third-quarter revenue of $1.18 billion, beating the consensus estimate of $1.16 billion. The communications company reported third-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.38 per share, beating analyst estimates of $1.31 per share. 
Zoom expects fiscal&nbsp;fourth-quarter&nbsp;revenue to be in the range of&nbsp;$1.175&nbsp;billion&nbsp;to&nbsp;$1.18 billion&nbsp;versus estimates of&nbsp;$1.17 billion. The company sees&nbsp;fourth-quarter&nbsp;adjusted earnings of&nbsp;$1.29&nbsp;to&nbsp;$1.30&nbsp;per share versus <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/24/11/42176089/zoom-communications-q3-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-online-churn-hits-all-time-low-company-name-change-and-more">estimates of&nbsp;$1.28&nbsp;per share.&nbsp;</a>
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Rockwell Automation shares gained by 1.3% to close at $297.38 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Meta shares gained by 2.2% to settle at $632.68 during Wednesday's session.</li>
<li>The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund fell 0.6% during Wednesday's session.</li>
<li>Zoom shares gained 3.3% to close at $86.59.</li>
</ul>
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Image: Shutterstock

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