14 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on Caterpillar CAT over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Ratings | 7 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 2M Ago | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Caterpillar, presenting an average target of $421.43, a high estimate of $515.00, and a low estimate of $300.00. Observing a 0.29% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $420.23.
Diving into Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Exploration
An in-depth analysis of recent analyst actions unveils how financial experts perceive Caterpillar. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
| Analyst | Analyst Firm | Action Taken | Rating | Current Price Target | Prior Price Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steven Fisher | UBS | Raises | Neutral | $385.00 | $355.00 |
| Kyle Menges | Citigroup | Raises | Buy | $430.00 | $420.00 |
| Tami Zakaria | JP Morgan | Lowers | Overweight | $490.00 | $515.00 |
| Michael Feniger | B of A Securities | Lowers | Buy | $414.00 | $452.00 |
| Angel Castillo | Morgan Stanley | Lowers | Underweight | $300.00 | $330.00 |
| Steven Fisher | UBS | Raises | Sell | $355.00 | $295.00 |
| Jamie Cook | Truist Securities | Lowers | Buy | $455.00 | $471.00 |
| Kyle Menges | Citigroup | Lowers | Buy | $420.00 | $460.00 |
| David Raso | Evercore ISI Group | Announces | In-Line | $365.00 | - |
| Jamie Cook | Truist Securities | Raises | Buy | $471.00 | $454.00 |
| Kyle Menges | Citigroup | Raises | Buy | $460.00 | $435.00 |
| Tami Zakaria | JP Morgan | Raises | Overweight | $515.00 | $500.00 |
| Stephen Volkmann | Jefferies | Raises | Buy | $475.00 | $455.00 |
| David Raso | Evercore ISI Group | Raises | Underperform | $365.00 | $321.00 |
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 Caterpillar. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
- Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Caterpillar compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts explore the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Caterpillar's stock. This examination reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.
For valuable insights into Caterpillar'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 Caterpillar analyst ratings.
All You Need to Know About Caterpillar
Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. Its reporting segments are: construction industries (40% sales/47% operating profit, or OP), resource industries (20% sales/19% OP), and energy & transportation (40% sales/34% OP). Market share approaches 20% across many products. Caterpillar operates a captive finance subsidiary to facilitate sales. The firm has global reach (46% US sales/54% ex-US). Construction skews more domestic, while the other divisions are more geographically diversified. An independent network of 156 dealers operates approximately 2,800 facilities, giving Caterpillar reach into about 190 countries for sales and support services.
Understanding the Numbers: Caterpillar's Finances
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Caterpillar's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 0.68% as of 31 December, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Industrials sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 17.21%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Caterpillar's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 14.35% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Caterpillar's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 3.21%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: With a high debt-to-equity ratio of 1.97, Caterpillar faces challenges in effectively managing its debt levels, indicating potential financial strain.
Analyst Ratings: What Are They?
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.
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.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. Click here to stay ahead of the market.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.
© 2025 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
date | ticker | name | Price Target | Upside/Downside | Recommendation | Firm |
|---|
Trade confidently with insights and alerts from analyst ratings, free reports and breaking news that affects the stocks you care about.
