Analysts are intrested in these 5 stocks: ( (HUM) ), ( (VST) ), ( (AVPT) ), ( (JNJ) ) and ( (LULU) ). Here is a breakdown of their recent ratings and the rationale behind them.
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Humana, a major player in the Medicare Advantage market, has been given a ‘Hold’ rating by analyst Elizabeth Anderson from Evercore ISI. The company, valued at approximately $33 billion, is expected to grow its adjusted EBIT at a low double-digit rate post-2028, with mid-teens EPS growth. However, the medium-term outlook is uncertain due to competitive dynamics and potential mispricing risks in Medicare Advantage. The analyst highlights the importance of Humana’s strategic growth plan and cost discipline, which could drive earnings growth and valuation above the current price target of $295.
Vistra Energy has been downgraded to ‘Hold’ by analyst Julien Dumoulin Smith from Jefferies, with a price target of $230. The downgrade follows a significant run-up in stock price due to expectations around the Comanche Peak nuclear deal. Despite a strong core business and positive EBITDA growth projections, the delay in the Comanche deal and political risks in Texas and PJM have led to a cautious stance. The analyst notes the potential for M&A to be more accretive than share buybacks, given the company’s balance sheet optionality.
AvePoint has received a ‘Buy’ rating from analyst Rudy Kessinger, with a price target of $20. The company is well-positioned in the red-hot data protection market, with a platform that extends beyond traditional backup and recovery. AvePoint’s expansion beyond the Microsoft ecosystem and its MSP-centric channel strategy are expected to drive durable 20%+ ARR growth. The analyst highlights the company’s potential to achieve a sustainable Rule-of-40+ profile, supported by continued margin expansion and platform growth.
Johnson & Johnson has been upgraded to ‘Buy’ by analyst Vamil Divan, with an increased price target of $206. The upgrade is based on the company’s robust innovative medicine pipeline, which is expected to drive the next era of growth. Despite the loss of exclusivity for Stelara, JNJ’s new product story, including promising oncology and immunology assets, is gaining traction. The analyst believes that the strength of JNJ’s product story and growth outlook will lead to positive consensus estimate revisions and multiple expansion.
Lululemon Athletica has been downgraded to ‘Hold’ by analysts Mark Altschwager and Tom Nikic, with concerns over the company’s growth and margin trajectory. Despite long-term value in the brand, near-term earnings uncertainty and competitive challenges have led to a cautious outlook. The analysts note elevated topline risks and unclear margin prospects into 2026, with potential for further earnings revisions. The stock is expected to be range-bound in the near-to-medium term, with a price target of $195.