Evaluating Moody's: Insights From 12 Financial Analysts

During the last three months, 12 analysts shared their evaluations of Moody's MCO, revealing diverse outlooks from bullish to bearish.

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.

In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Moody's, presenting an average target of $408.58, a high estimate of $450.00, and a low estimate of $350.00. This current average has increased by 2.03% from the previous average price target of $400.45.

Exploring Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Overview

A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive Moody's is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of 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 Moody's. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.
• Rating: Offering a comprehensive view, analysts assess stocks qualitatively, spanning from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Moody's compared to the broader market.
• Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of Moody's's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.

Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Moody's's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.

Stay up to date on Moody's analyst ratings.

About Moody's

Moody's Corporation along with S&P Ratings, is a provider of credit ratings on fixed-income securities. The ratings segment, Moody's Investors Service, includes corporates, structured finance, financial institutions, and public finance ratings. MIS represents a majority of the firm's profit and about half the firm's revenue. The other segment, Moody's Analytics, consists of decision solutions, research and insights, and data and information.

Moody's: Financial Performance Dissected

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

Revenue Growth: Moody's's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 31 December, 2023, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 14.73%. 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 Financials sector.

Net Margin: Moody's's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 22.97% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.

Return on Equity (ROE): Moody's's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 10.45%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.

Return on Assets (ROA): Moody's's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 2.36% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.

Debt Management: With a high debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23, Moody's faces challenges in effectively managing its debt levels, indicating potential financial strain.

How Are Analyst Ratings Determined?

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.

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