Wednesday's Analyst Calls: Ups Get an Upgrade, Meta Platforms Jump 20% Ahead

Wednesday saw significant analyst calls impacting major companies, including a delivery giant and a social media titan.

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Redburn Atlantic upgraded UPS to buy, indicating optimism about the package delivery company's future. Meanwhile, Wells Fargo forecasted a 20% upside for Meta Platforms and raised one of its estimates for the company’s advertising sales.

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Here's a rundown of the latest analyst opinions and discussions:

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8 a.m.: AllianceBernstein's venture with Societe Generale boosts stock, says TD CowenAnalyst Bill Katz of TD Cowen discussed the details of AllianceBernstein's joint venture with Societe Generale, highlighting its potential to enhance earnings beyond expectations. Katz believes this venture will redirect investor focus towards AllianceBernstein's earnings potential for 2025-2026, which could positively impact the stock's valuation. He reiterated AllianceBernstein as one of the top growth stories in the sector. Katz maintains a price target of $36 for the stock, indicating nearly 5% upside from Tuesday’s close.

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7:40 a.m.: Argus Research downgrades PepsiCo to hold, cites price hikes impacting revenueJohn Stazak of Argus Research downgraded PepsiCo to hold from buy, expressing concerns about the company's recent price hikes. Stazak believes these hikes might drive consumers towards cheaper alternatives or dining out, thus potentially slowing down revenue growth. He also mentioned the increasing trend towards healthier snacks and weight loss, which could further impact PepsiCo's sales negatively.

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7:38 a.m.: Needham initiates coverage of SoFi Technologies with a 'buy' ratingKyle Peterson of Needham initiated coverage of SoFi Technologies with a buy rating and a $10 price target, signaling a 39% rally from Tuesday's closing price. Peterson sees SoFi as a long-term winner in the digital lending/neobank sector due to its focus on prime and super-prime consumers and possession of a full banking license. He believes these factors provide superior unit economics compared to other platforms targeting lower-income borrowers or lacking a banking license.

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7:34 a.m.: Citi sees potential for medtech stocks, especially Boston Scientific, iRhythm Technologies, and Intuitive SurgicalJoanne Wuensch of Citi expressed optimism about medtech stocks, highlighting the positive outlook for companies with new products entering the market. Wuensch's top picks include Boston Scientific, iRhythm Technologies, and Intuitive Surgical, with additional positive sentiment towards Becton Dickinson and an upgrade for Integra Lifesciences to neutral from sell.

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6:52 a.m.: Goldman Sachs initiates coverage of Carlisle Companies with a 'buy' ratingSusan Maklari of Goldman Sachs initiated coverage of Carlisle Companies with a buy rating, citing multiple growth drivers that could propel the stock higher in the coming years. Maklari highlighted a potential "re-roof cycle" as a significant growth opportunity for Carlisle, expecting increased demand as commercial structures approach the end of their useful life.

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These analyst calls provide valuable insights into various industries and companies, offering investors guidance on potential investment opportunities and risks.

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