Assessing Waters: Insights From 4 Financial Analysts

Waters WAT underwent analysis by 4 analysts in the last quarter, revealing a spectrum of viewpoints 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.

The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $321.0, a high estimate of $340.00, and a low estimate of $300.00. Observing a 3.22% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $311.00.

Exploring Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Overview

The standing of Waters among financial experts becomes clear with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.

Key Insights:

• 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 Waters. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
• Rating: Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Waters compared to the broader market.
• Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Waters's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.

Capture valuable insights into Waters's market standing by understanding these analyst evaluations alongside pertinent financial indicators. Stay informed and make strategic decisions with our Ratings Table.

Stay up to date on Waters analyst ratings.

Get to Know Waters Better

Water sells liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and thermal analysis tools. These analytical instruments provide essential information on various products, such as their molecular structures and physical properties, to help clients enhance the health and well-being of end users. As a percentage of sales in 2022, Waters generated 59% from pharmaceutical customers, 31% from industrial clients, and 10% from academic/government institutions.

Waters: A Financial Overview

Market Capitalization Analysis: The company exhibits a lower market capitalization profile, positioning itself below industry averages. This suggests a smaller scale relative to peers.

Negative Revenue Trend: Examining Waters's financials over 3 months reveals challenges. As of 31 December, 2023, the company experienced a decline of approximately -4.55% in revenue growth, reflecting a decrease in top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the company achieved a growth rate higher than the average among peers in Health Care sector.

Net Margin: Waters's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 26.38%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.

Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 21.03%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.

Return on Assets (ROA): Waters's ROA excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 4.74%. This signifies efficient management of assets and strong financial health.

Debt Management: With a high debt-to-equity ratio of 2.12, Waters faces challenges in effectively managing its debt levels, indicating potential financial strain.

Understanding the Relevance of Analyst Ratings

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 publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.

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