The Analyst Verdict: Lazard In The Eyes Of 4 Experts

In the preceding three months, 4 analysts have released ratings for Lazard LAZ, presenting a wide array of perspectives from bullish to bearish.

The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.

Providing deeper insights, analysts have established 12-month price targets, indicating an average target of $51.25, along with a high estimate of $58.00 and a low estimate of $44.00. This upward trend is apparent, with the current average reflecting a 1.14% increase from the previous average price target of $50.67.

Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination

In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Lazard. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.

Key Insights:

• Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to Lazard. This insight gives a snapshot of 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 Lazard compared to the broader market.
• Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Lazard's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.

For valuable insights into Lazard's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.

Stay up to date on Lazard analyst ratings.

About Lazard

Lazard has a storied history that can be traced back to 1848. The company's revenue is nearly equally split between financial advisory, such as acquisition and restructuring advisory, and asset management. The company's asset management business is primarily equities (over 80% of assets under management), has an international focus, and is geared toward institutional clients. By geography, the company earns approximately 60% of revenue in the Americas, 35% in EMEA, and 5% in Asia-Pacific. Lazard has offices across more than 20 countries and over 3,000 employees.

A Deep Dive into Lazard's Financials

Market Capitalization Analysis: Below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization reflects a smaller scale relative to peers. This could be attributed to factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.

Revenue Growth: Lazard displayed positive results in 3 months. As of 31 March, 2024, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 40.91%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Financials sector.

Net Margin: Lazard's net margin lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maintaining strong profitability. With a net margin of 4.45%, the company may face hurdles in effective cost management.

Return on Equity (ROE): Lazard's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 8.45% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.

Return on Assets (ROA): Lazard's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 0.75%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.

Debt Management: Lazard's debt-to-equity ratio surpasses industry norms, standing at 5.9. This suggests the company carries a substantial amount of debt, posing potential financial challenges.

The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know

Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.

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.

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