In the latest quarter, 8 analysts provided ratings for Westlake (NYSE:WLK), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
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 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $165.12, a high estimate of $180.00, and a low estimate of $153.00. Surpassing the previous average price target of $146.00, the current average has increased by 13.1%.
Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Westlake. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arun Viswanathan | RBC Capital | Maintains | Sector Perform | $158.00 | $158.00 |
| Charles Neivert | Piper Sandler | Raises | Overweight | $180.00 | $160.00 |
| Arun Viswanathan | RBC Capital | Raises | Sector Perform | $153.00 | $134.00 |
| David Begleiter | B of A Securities | Raises | Buy | $174.00 | $138.00 |
| Patrick Cunningham | Citigroup | Raises | Neutral | $162.00 | $140.00 |
| Kevin McCarthy | Vertical Research | Announces | Hold | $154.00 | - |
| Michael Leithead | Barclays | Raises | Equal-Weight | $160.00 | $142.00 |
| Michael Sison | Wells Fargo | Raises | Overweight | $180.00 | $150.00 |
Key Insights:
- Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Westlake. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.
- Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Westlake compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Westlake's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of Westlake's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on Westlake analyst ratings.
Get to Know Westlake Better
Westlake Corp is a manufacturer and supplier of chemicals, polymers and building products. Its Performance and Essential Materials segment offers a wide range of essential building blocks for making products utilized in everyday living, including olefins, vinyl chemicals, polyethylene, and epoxies. Its Housing and Infrastructure Products segment produces key finished goods for building products, pipe and fittings, and global compounds businesses.
A Deep Dive into Westlake's Financials
Market Capitalization: Surpassing industry standards, the company's market capitalization asserts its dominance in terms of size, suggesting a robust market position.
Revenue Challenges: Westlake's revenue growth over 3 months faced difficulties. As of 31 March, 2024, the company experienced a decline of approximately -11.35%. This indicates a decrease in 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 Materials sector.
Net Margin: Westlake's net margin excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 5.82%. This signifies efficient cost management and strong financial health.
Return on Equity (ROE): Westlake's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 1.68%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Westlake's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 0.82%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Westlake's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.53, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
The Basics of Analyst Ratings
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.
Some analysts will also offer forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide further guidance on stocks. Investors who use analyst ratings should note that this specialized advice comes from humans and may be subject to error.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.