A Closer Look at 21 Analyst Recommendations For KLA

21 analysts have shared their evaluations of KLA KLAC during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.

The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.

The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $657.38, a high estimate of $850.00, and a low estimate of $500.00. This current average reflects an increase of 9.99% from the previous average price target of $597.69.

Exploring Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Overview

An in-depth analysis of recent analyst actions unveils how financial experts perceive KLA. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.

Key Insights:

• 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 KLA. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.
• Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of KLA compared to the broader market.
• Price Targets: Analysts explore the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of KLA's stock. This examination reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.

To gain a panoramic view of KLA's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.

Stay up to date on KLA analyst ratings.

Get to Know KLA Better

KLA is one of the largest semiconductor wafer fabrication equipment, or WFE, manufacturers in the world. It specializes in the market segment of semiconductor process control, wherein machines inspect semiconductor wafers during research and development and manufacturing for defects and verify precise measurements. In this section of the market, KLA holds a majority share. It also has a small exposure to the etch and deposition segments of the WFE market. It counts as top customers the largest chipmakers in the world, including TSMC and Samsung.

Breaking Down KLA's Financial Performance

Market Capitalization: Positioned above industry average, the company's market capitalization underscores its superiority in size, indicative of a strong market presence.

Revenue Challenges: KLA's revenue growth over 3 months faced difficulties. As of 31 December, 2023, the company experienced a decline of approximately -16.66%. This indicates a decrease in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Information Technology sector.

Net Margin: KLA's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 23.43%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.

Return on Equity (ROE): KLA's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 19.31%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.

Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 4.1%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.

Debt Management: KLA's debt-to-equity ratio is notably higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 2.0, the company relies more heavily on borrowed funds, indicating a higher level of financial risk.

The Basics of Analyst Ratings

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.

In addition to their assessments, some analysts extend their insights by offering predictions for key metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates. This supplementary information provides further guidance for traders. It is crucial to recognize that, despite their specialization, analysts are human and can only provide forecasts based on their beliefs.

This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.