Expert Outlook: Lazard Through The Eyes Of 5 Analysts

Ratings for Lazard LAZ were provided by 5 analysts in the past three months, showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.

Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.

In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Lazard, presenting an average target of $59.2, a high estimate of $65.00, and a low estimate of $52.00. This current average is unchanged from the previous average price target.

Understanding Analyst Ratings: A Comprehensive Breakdown

The standing of Lazard 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 adapt their recommendations to changing market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their response to recent developments related to Lazard. This information provides 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 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.

Understanding these analyst evaluations alongside key financial indicators can offer valuable insights into Lazard's market standing. Stay informed and make well-considered decisions with our Ratings Table.

Stay up to date on Lazard analyst ratings.

Unveiling the Story Behind 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.

Unraveling the Financial Story of Lazard

Market Capitalization Analysis: Falling below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization reflects a reduced size compared to peers. This positioning may be influenced by factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.

Revenue Growth: Lazard's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 30 September, 2024, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 49.05%. This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the company achieved a growth rate higher than the average among peers in Financials sector.

Net Margin: Lazard's net margin is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in achieving strong profitability. With a net margin of 13.3%, the company may encounter challenges in effective cost control.

Return on Equity (ROE): Lazard's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 19.46% 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 2.25%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.

Debt Management: Lazard's debt-to-equity ratio stands notably higher than the industry average, reaching 3.8. This indicates a heavier reliance on borrowed funds, raising concerns about financial leverage.

The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know

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.

Analysts may enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.

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