UPDATE: Goldman Sachs Upgrades Peabody Energy Corporation To Buy on Growth From Rising Thermal Prices

Goldman Sachs raises its rating on Peabody Energy Corporation (NYSE: BTU) from Neutral to Buy as it maintains a price target of $37 on shares. Goldman Sachs notes, "We raise BTU to Buy for three reasons: (1) Improving China macro data and Newcastle thermal prices should drive greater Street credit for BTU's Australia business (better growth profile than covered US peers). (2) BTU is exposed to our view that PRB-levered stocks should see improved relative performance as PRB prices continue to rise from below cash costs today to mid-cycle by the end of 1H2013. (3) Its valuation given a 9% 3-year EBITDA CAGR screens favorably vs. the coverage group. Also, discussion of China thermal and Mongolia met coal JVs remain potential long-term catalysts. BTU closed at $28.08 on Friday.