UPDATE: Stifel Upgrades FTI Consulting, Inc. As New Leadership Resets Expectations And Growth Trajectory

In a report published Monday, Stifel analyst Jerry Herman upgraded the rating on

from Hold to Buy, and named a $43.00 price target. In the report, Stifel noted, “We are upgrading the shares of FCN from Hold to Buy and establishing a 12-month target of $43. A strategic and financial plan developed by new CEO has ‘reset' expectations" to achievable levels, and EPS growth trajectory of 18% and 30%+ in 2015 and 2016, respectively appear achievable through a combination of operational efficiencies, targeted investment spending to drive organic growth, streamlining of poorer performing legacy practices, and more generally, the organization being re-energized by leadership change. Longer term, recovery in key counter-cyclical practices is expected to drive growth. The valuation looks attractive relative to peers and growth prospects.” FTI Consulting, Inc. closed on Friday at $34.86.