On Thursday, Loop Capital adjusted its outlook on Alibaba (NYSE:BABA) Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA) shares, increasing the company's price target to $115 up from $111, while reaffirming a Buy rating on the stock.
The firm's analyst highlighted Alibaba's potential for a positive shift in valuation, following a prolonged period where the stock was seen as a valuation trap for investors interested in China's internet sector.
The analyst cited several factors that could lead to a revaluation of Alibaba shares, including the company's compelling valuation at 5.2 times forward earnings per share (EPS) at the group level.
Additionally, Alibaba's proactive approach to share repurchases was acknowledged, though it was noted that the stock lacked a clear catalyst for growth.
Expectations for the second half of fiscal year 2025 were outlined as a turning point for Alibaba. The analyst anticipates that market share stabilization, improved monetization, and a reacceleration in cloud revenue growth will serve as catalysts for the stock's revaluation. In light of these projections, Loop Capital has revised its estimates and raised the price target.
The update from Loop Capital comes during a time when investors have been cautious about the prospects of Chinese internet companies, due to regulatory challenges and market conditions. Alibaba, in particular, has faced scrutiny but now seems poised for a potential turnaround as market dynamics evolve.
In other recent news, Alibaba has been making significant strides in various aspects of its business. The company has launched Alibaba Guaranteed, a service aimed at streamlining global sourcing and supply chain processes for small and medium-sized enterprises.
This new feature offers fixed prices with included shipping fees, dispatches goods within 72 hours, and ensures on-time delivery, among other benefits.
In terms of financial developments, Alibaba successfully raised $5 billion through a private offering of convertible senior notes. This move involved the sale of 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due in 2031, attracting institutional buyers both in the United States and offshore.
On the earnings front, Alibaba reported robust growth in its core businesses and artificial intelligence revenue during the March quarter and full fiscal year 2024. Notably, there were significant increases in gross merchandise volume and revenue in key segments like Taobao and Tmall.
Analysts at BofA Securities have responded to these developments by increasing Alibaba's stock price target to $103 from $99, maintaining a Buy rating. However, Mizuho revised the stock price target for Alibaba to $92.00 from $95.00, while still upholding its Buy rating.
These adjustments were based on Alibaba's recent quarterly report and the company's ongoing share buyback program valued at approximately $30 billion.
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