Analysts' ratings for Atmos Energy (NYSE:ATO) over the last quarter vary from bullish to bearish, as provided by 7 analysts.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Ratings | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $127.71, a high estimate of $138.00, and a low estimate of $119.00. This current average reflects an increase of 2.58% from the previous average price target of $124.50.
Diving into Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Exploration
A clear picture of Atmos Energy's perception among financial experts is painted with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stephen Byrd | Morgan Stanley | Lowers | Overweight | $119.00 | $122.00 |
| Stephen Byrd | Morgan Stanley | Raises | Overweight | $122.00 | $120.00 |
| Nicholas Campanella | Barclays | Raises | Equal-Weight | $129.00 | $121.00 |
| Sarah Akers | Wells Fargo | Raises | Overweight | $132.00 | $130.00 |
| Gabriel Moreen | Mizuho | Raises | Buy | $138.00 | $133.00 |
| Sarah Akers | Wells Fargo | Raises | Equal-Weight | $130.00 | $121.00 |
| William Appicelli | UBS | Announces | Neutral | $124.00 | - |
Key Insights:
- Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Atmos Energy. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
- Rating: Offering insights into predictions, analysts assign qualitative values, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Atmos Energy compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts explore the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Atmos Energy's stock. This examination reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Atmos Energy's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on Atmos Energy analyst ratings.
Unveiling the Story Behind Atmos Energy
Atmos Energy is the largest publicly traded, fully regulated, pure-play natural gas utility in the United States, serving more than 3 million customers in Texas, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Virginia. About two thirds of its earnings come from Texas, where it distributes natural gas in northern Texas and owns an intrastate gas pipeline spanning several key shale gas formations and interconnected with five storage facilities.
Atmos Energy's Financial Performance
Market Capitalization Analysis: With an elevated market capitalization, the company stands out above industry averages, showcasing substantial size and market acknowledgment.
Revenue Growth: Atmos Energy's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 31 March, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 6.9%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Utilities sector, the company excelled with a growth rate higher than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Atmos Energy's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 26.21%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Atmos Energy's ROE lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maximizing returns on equity capital. With an ROE of 3.77%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Atmos Energy's ROA is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 1.81%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Debt Management: Atmos Energy's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.65, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
Analyst Ratings: Simplified
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.