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In a significant development, Walgreens (NASDAQ:WBA) stock was upgraded to “Overweight” by JPMorgan, following the appointment of former Express Scripts CEO, Tim Wentworth as the new leader. This comes after Rosalind Brewer’s tenure, which saw the company’s diversification into primary care providers and a subsequent 40% drop in stock value this year. The analysts at JPMorgan perceive potential for a turnaround under Wentworth’s leadership, setting a $30 price target that suggests an approximate recovery of 40%.
According to InvestingPro, Walgreens has a market capitalization of $18.97 billion and a revenue of $139.08 billion. The company has a prominent role in the Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail industry and has maintained its dividend payments for 53 consecutive years, which aligns with the InvestingPro data indicating a dividend yield of 9.03%. It’s worth noting that the company’s revenue growth has been accelerating, with a 4.81% growth in the last twelve months and a quarterly growth of 9.16% in the last quarter of 2023.
On the other hand, FMC Corp . (NYSE:), a manufacturer of pesticides and agricultural products, witnessed a 13% slump in share value after it trimmed its guidance due to an inventory surplus in Brazil and a drought in Argentina. In response to these circumstances, FMC announced plans for a cost structure review. Wells Fargo decided to keep an “equal weight” rating on FMC but lowered its target to $56 from the previous $73.
Meanwhile, shares of EngageSmart (NYSE:ESMT) experienced an uptick after Vista Equity Partners, spearheaded by Robert Smith, unveiled plans for a $4 billion privatization deal. As part of the agreement, each EngageSmart shareholder would receive $23 per share. The transaction is expected to be finalized in Q1 2024. EngageSmart has been granted a 30-day go-shop period to explore other potential offers. Following the acquisition, Vista will hold approximately 65% of EngageSmart, while General Atlantic will retain the remaining 35%. Raymond James opined that the valuation is fair.
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