Throughout the last three months, 6 analysts have evaluated Waters WAT, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.
| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Ratings | 1 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $345.33, a high estimate of $385.00, and a low estimate of $315.00. This current average represents a 10.07% decrease from the previous average price target of $384.00.
Diving into Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Exploration
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Waters by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
| Analyst | Analyst Firm | Action Taken | Rating | Current Price Target | Prior Price Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Justin Bowers | Deutsche Bank | Lowers | Hold | $315.00 | $375.00 |
| Brandon Couillard | Wells Fargo | Lowers | Equal-Weight | $315.00 | $330.00 |
| Tycho Peterson | Jefferies | Lowers | Buy | $385.00 | $435.00 |
| Catherine Ramsey | Baird | Lowers | Outperform | $352.00 | $374.00 |
| Brandon Couillard | Wells Fargo | Lowers | Equal-Weight | $330.00 | $420.00 |
| Derik De Bruin | B of A Securities | Raises | Neutral | $375.00 | $370.00 |
Key Insights:
- Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Waters. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
- Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Waters compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Waters's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.
Understanding these analyst evaluations alongside key financial indicators can offer valuable insights into Waters's market standing. Stay informed and make well-considered decisions with our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on Waters analyst ratings.
All You Need to Know About Waters
Water sells liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and thermal analysis tools. These analytical instruments provide essential information on various products, such as their molecular structures and physical properties, to help clients enhance the health and well-being of end users. As a percentage of sales in 2024, Waters generated 58% from biopharmaceutical customers, 31% from industrial clients, and 11% from academic/government institutions. In early 2026, Waters plans to merge with BD's life science and diagnostics business, which will substantially change those concentrations. Waters will wind up with more concentration in diagnostics (versus none now) and discovery-related life science tools.
Unraveling the Financial Story of Waters
Market Capitalization: Indicating a reduced size compared to industry averages, the company's market capitalization poses unique challenges.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3M period, Waters showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 3.9% as of 31 March, 2025. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Waters's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 18.34%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 6.4%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 2.65%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 0.78, Waters adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
What Are Analyst Ratings?
Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter.
Beyond their standard evaluations, some analysts contribute predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, furnishing investors with additional guidance. Users of analyst ratings should be mindful that this specialized advice is shaped by human perspectives and may be subject to variability.
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