In the preceding three months, 6 analysts have released ratings for Waters (NYSE:WAT), presenting a wide array of perspectives from bullish to bearish.

In the table below, you'll find a summary of their recent ratings, revealing the shifting sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the previous months.

Analysts' evaluations of 12-month price targets offer additional insights, showcasing an average target of $425.5, with a high estimate of $480.00 and a low estimate of $385.00. This upward trend is apparent, with the current average reflecting a 22.15% increase from the previous average price target of $348.33.

Understanding Analyst Ratings: A Comprehensive Breakdown

A clear picture of Waters's perception among financial experts is painted with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.

Key Insights:

• Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Waters. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.
• Rating: Offering a comprehensive view, analysts assess stocks qualitatively, spanning from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Waters compared to the broader market.
• Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of Waters's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.

Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Waters's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.

Stay up to date on Waters analyst ratings.

Delving into Waters's Background

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.

Understanding the Numbers: Waters's Finances

Market Capitalization Analysis: Below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization reflects a smaller scale relative to peers. This could be attributed to factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.

Revenue Growth: Waters's revenue growth over a period of 3M has been noteworthy. As of 30 September, 2025, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 8.05%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, 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 18.62%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.

Return on Equity (ROE): Waters's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 6.63%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.

Return on Assets (ROA): Waters's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 3.11%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.

Debt Management: Waters's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.64, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.

The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know

Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.

Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.

This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.