Finance

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades on Key Stocks: What Investors Should Know!

2024-10-10

Author: Sophie

Canadian National Railway Co. (CNR-T) Soars with Upgraded Ratings!

RBC Dominion Securities analyst Walter Spracklin has high hopes for Canadian National Railway Co. (CNR). Following a labor disruption in late August, Spracklin notes that operations have 'rebounded nicely.' He believes that the company's current valuation is 'inexpensive relative to its history and peers' and cites an attractive growth outlook amid industrial weaknesses.

After adjusting his expectations, Spracklin raised his rating for CNR shares from 'sector perform' to 'outperform.' He now targets a price of $179, up from $169, indicating he believes investor sentiment is resetting, creating an enticing entry point for CNR shares.

Spracklin explained, 'Despite the near-term economic headwinds, positive indicators such as increased car velocity suggest an uptick is on the way for Q4 results, likely acting as a catalyst for future performance.'

Bullish on Precious Metals!

In another bullish report, analysts at National Bank Financial reaffirmed a positive outlook for precious metals, buoyed by declining real interest rates and persistent geopolitical risks. Gold and silver prices have surged by 26% and 28% year-to-date, respectively. The analyst team updated their price estimates, predicting gold to average $2,409 per ounce in 2024, an improvement from the previous forecast of $2,280.

They highlighted companies that successfully completed growth projects and expect strong free cash flow growth in the latter half of 2024 due to a combination of factors, including rising gold prices.

Stock Ratings Shifts: Four Companies See Upgrades!

Several companies in the precious metals sector received upgrades: - Calibre Mining Corp. (CXB-T) is now rated 'outperform,' with a target raised from $2.85 to $4. - Iamgold Corp. (IMG-T) has seen its rating upgraded to 'outperform' and its target increased from $8.50 to $11, following successful operational adjustments. - Torex Gold Resources Inc. (TXG-T) was also upgraded to 'outperform,' with a target raised to $37.75 from $31.25, bolstered by growth potential at their Morelos complex. - Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. (WPM-T) now holds an 'outperform' rating with a target of $105, enhanced by favorable shifts in commodity pricing.

Conversely, i-80 Gold Corp. (IAU-T) has been downgraded to 'sector perform' due to recent price performance against its peers, but the outlook on leadership remains positive.

Telecom Sector Gloom and Potential Turns

RBC Dominion Security’s analyst Drew McReynolds expressed concerns over the telecommunications sector as they move into the third-quarter earnings season. Notably, he voiced that until evidence emerges indicating a recovery in industry revenue, the sector's performance will remain subdued.

As quarterly results loom, trends indicate continued struggles to maintain profitability, pointing towards downward revisions for 2024 revenue guidance.

He stated, 'The overall telecom sector has shown disappointing returns against the broader market due to intensified competition. Until there are signs of revenue growth stabilization, it's prudent for investors to remain cautious.'

In Summary: Eye on the Market Shifts

The market is set for significant changes as both the railway and precious metals sectors display promising growth potential, while telecommunications continue to navigate challenges. Investors should keep a close eye on these developments, weighing analyst recommendations and market sentiment to make informed decisions moving forward.

Stay tuned for more insights and make sure you don’t miss any profitable opportunities!