On Wednesday, Jefferies updated its outlook on IQVIA Holdings (NYSE:IQV), raising the price target to $200 from the previous $195 while keeping a Hold rating on the stock. According to InvestingPro data, analyst targets range from $195 to $273, with the stock currently trading at $203.17.
The firm acknowledged IQVIA's long-range plan (LRP) for revenue growth, which is set at 6-9%, compared to current revenue growth of 3.1%. This forecast is slightly more conservative compared to its competitor ICON plc (ICLR), which Jefferies finds more credible.
The analyst noted that IQVIA's expected margin expansion is modest, ranging from 0 to 30 basis points per year. This outlook is influenced by diminishing returns from synergies and the capture of low-hanging fruit within the company's operations.
InvestingPro analysis shows the company maintains a healthy gross profit margin of 35.17% and strong financial health metrics. Despite the broader industry discussions on price pressure, the analyst expressed surprise at any projected margin expansion for the year 2025.
For the research and development services (R&DS) segment, the firm anticipates slower growth, which may align with the lower end of management's 4-6% growth target. The commentary from Jefferies highlighted IQVIA's strategic priorities, which include enhancing its artificial intelligence offerings and utilizing capital for share repurchases and mergers and acquisitions.
In summary, Jefferies maintains a neutral stance on IQVIA Holdings, with the revised price target reflecting a slight increase in their valuation of the company's prospects.
The focus on technology and strategic capital deployment are noted as key aspects of IQVIA's approach moving forward.
In other recent news, IQVIA Holdings reported a 4.3% year-over-year growth in Q3 revenue to $3.896 billion, and a 14% increase in adjusted diluted EPS to $2.84. Despite a significant cancellation, the company's backlog expanded by 8% year-over-year to a record $31.1 billion. Additionally, IQVIA is planning an aggressive share repurchase in Q4 2023. Several analyst firms have adjusted their outlook on IQVIA.
Baird reduced its stock price target from $223.00 to $213.00, maintaining a neutral stance due to underperformance in certain sectors. Truist Securities also adjusted its price target for IQVIA, from $286 to $265, maintaining a buy rating. Moreover, TD (TSX:TD) Cowen decreased its price target from $270 to $255, keeping a buy rating, and BTIG reduced its price target from $290 to $260, also maintaining a buy rating.
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