When we are unsure, we always turn to the experts. The same applies to investing. Analysts, armed with extensive knowledge and research, are often the guiding beacons for investors seeking clarity amid market turbulence.
In this pursuit, it’s not uncommon for investors to take a keen interest in US stocks that have recently garnered the coveted seal of approval from these market experts. This of course makes the knowledge of upgrade vs downgrade so critical.
Top upgrades stocks, having been favored by analysts, stand as potential beacons of growth and opportunity. As investors, we look to these ratings not as mere endorsements, but as windows into the future, offering insights into companies poised for significant developments.
In this article, we delve into the world of top upgrades stocks, where we explore the opportunities that have recently caught the discerning eye of analysts, and why they deserve a place in your investment portfolio.
Amazon
Amazon’s (NASDAQ: AMZN) recent analyst upgrades are grounded in a positive outlook. With 32 analysts predicting Q3 2023 sales, an estimated 11.4% YoY increase points to continued double-digit growth.
Even top assessments such as the Goldman Sachs Amazon price target is compelling given the current AMZN price of $125. The earnings per share projections vary, reflecting Amazon’s complexity, but a collective upswing indicates bottomed sentiment.
Favorable e-commerce trends bolster this optimism seen in the picture painted by Amazon stock upgrades and downgrades.
Prime memberships rose to 82 million U.S. households in 3Q23, with increased engagement. U.S. e-commerce spending improved by 0.8% YoY in Q3. Amazon’s cloud business, AWS, has stabilized and may see 13% YoY growth, positioning it to harness the AI wave.
Advertising revenue growth and margin improvement strategies further amplify Amazon’s upgrade potential, making it a stock to consider among top upgrade stocks.
Apple, Inc.
Analysts have given Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) a vote of confidence with a recent upgrade. The stock saw an 8.09% price reduction, making it more cost-effective.
Apple’s recent “Wonderlust” event, which introduced a significant iPhone update, has received positive feedback from tech reviewers, suggesting strong demand.
Despite challenges in China, Apple has increased its market share in the US to 52%. Analysts anticipate revenues of $89.29 billion and earnings per share of $1.39 for the upcoming quarter, showing potential growth.
With the strong demand for the iPhone 15, Apple’s position in the market is improving, making it an appealing choice among top upgrade stocks, when combined with the broader fundamentals defining the company.
Tesla
Last month, Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA) received a substantial analyst upgrade from Morgan Stanley, raising their price target from $250 to $400.
This bullish sentiment isn’t limited to a single analyst; many reputable experts share this positive outlook. This makes Tesla a strong contender among top upgrades stocks, that shines with the fervor of EV hype.
Tesla’s short and medium-term prospects have improved significantly, thanks to the UAW strike affecting the Big Three automakers. Their financials and valuation align, leading many analysts to rate TSLA as a “Buy.”
With a diversified business encompassing electric vehicles, energy generation, and self-driving technology, Tesla stands at the forefront of multiple high-growth markets. It holds immense potential in various markets which include, including electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and energy storage.
This strategic position, bullish Tesla upgrades and downgrades, as well as its continuous innovation, makes Tesla an appealing investment choice for long-term growth, even at its current valuation.
Livent Corp.
Livent Corp (NYSE: LTHM) recently garnered multiple analyst upgrades, signaling a compelling opportunity among top upgrades stocks. KeyBanc Capital Markets and B. Riley Securities both upgraded the stock, setting target prices of $30 and $32, respectively.
Furthermore, BofA Securities also shifted its rating from “Neutral” to “Buy,” initially targeting $29.
LTHM, as a leading lithium producer, has endured a 20% YTD dip despite the booming EV sector and surging demand for lithium. With its strategic focus on growth and a promising merger proposal, LTHM presents a tantalizing opportunity for investors.
Uber
Uber Inc.’s (NYSE: UBER) recent Buy ratings from BTIG Research, Tigress Financial, Jefferies, and BofA Securities are backed by a compelling thesis.
Focusing on three critical variables – Long Term EBITDA as a % of Mobility Gross Bookings, Mobility Gross Bookings, and EBITDA as a % of Gross Bookings less taxes, representing free cash flow – these analysts find Uber’s growth potential appealing.
They assert that investors are essentially acquiring Uber’s Mobility business at its current valuation while gaining its Delivery business and new initiatives for free.
Considering conservative estimates and Uber’s improving competitive position, it’s a stock upgrade worth considering, with the potential for over 14% annualized returns, and even more if factoring in Delivery and new product initiatives.
Considering all the factors above, it becomes apparent why Uber stands tall in this list of top upgrades stocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are “Top Upgrade Stocks”?
Top upgrade stocks are companies that have received favorable assessments from market analysts. Beginners should be interested in them because these upgrades can provide insights into companies with strong growth potential.
Why Was Amazon Recently Upgraded by Analysts?
Amazon received recent upgrades due to a positive sales outlook for Q3 2023, driven by e-commerce trends, Prime membership growth, and improvements in AWS (Amazon Web Services). Advertising revenue and margin strategies also add to its upgrade potential.
What Has Made Apple a Compelling Choice Among Top Upgrade Stocks?
Apple’s recent upgrade is influenced by its iPhone update and strong demand. Despite challenges in China, Apple is gaining market share in the US. Analysts anticipate strong revenues and earnings for the upcoming quarter, making it a promising choice.
What Led to The Significant Analyst Upgrade of Tesla?
Tesla’s upgrade is supported by improved short and medium-term prospects, driven by the UAW strike and its diversified business encompassing electric vehicles, energy generation, and self-driving technology. Its strategic position and innovation make it an attractive long-term investment.
Why Did Livent Corp. Receive Multiple Analyst Upgrades?
Livent Corp. received upgrades due to its role as a leading lithium producer and its growth-focused strategies. Despite a YTD dip, surging demand for lithium and a merger proposal make it a compelling opportunity for investors.
What’s Behind the Recent Buy Ratings for Uber?
Uber’s Buy ratings are supported by its potential for long-term EBITDA growth and a competitive position. Analysts believe investors can acquire Uber’s Mobility business at its current valuation while gaining Delivery business and new initiatives for free.
Why Is It Important to Pay Attention to Analyst Upgrades?
Analyst upgrades provide valuable insights into a company’s potential for growth and success in the market, helping investors make informed decisions. You can also turn to upgrade and downgrade analysis tools for even more quality findings. While upgraded stocks are compelling, top downgrade stocks may point to sell-side opportunities in the market.
What Are Some Risks Associated with Investing In Upgraded Or Downgraded Stocks?
Risks surrounding upgrade and downgrades stocks may include market volatility and unexpected events. Beginners can manage them by diversifying their investments and conducting thorough research.
How Can I Keep Track of Analyst Upgrades?
Beginners can follow financial news websites, subscribe to newsletters, and use investment apps to stay updated on stock upgrade and downgrade briefings and other market information. It is important, however, that you have a thorough understanding of stock upgrade and downgrade definitions, as well as the underlying principles related to analyst ratings.