Big broker updates for the Woolworths share price

Big broker updates for the Woolworths share price

Credit Suisse Group AG raised its Woolworths share price target from $40.43 to $40.80 and retains a neutral rating. It describes the quarterly trading update as solid with online sales channels ahead of competitors. It sees this as an advantage for Woolworths going forward but does raise concern for higher costs.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) raised its Woolworths share price target from $42.00 to $42.50 and retains an outperform rating. The broker was impressed with its first quarter sales update which were ahead of expectations and better than its main rival Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL). Macquarie expects a strong Christmas trading period for the supermarket leader.

Morgan Stanley raised its Woolworths share price target from $43.50 to $44.00 and retains its overweight rating. The investment bank reacted positively to its first quarter sales update with growth being better than expected. The liquor segment surprised to the upside but hotels continue to drag on earnings, but offer upside when Melbourne re-opens. Similarly, Morgan Stanley expects a strong Christmas trading period.

UBS AG (USA) retained a buy rating with a $44.00 price target. It didn’t change its rating or price target after reviewing the September quarter trading update. The strong performance was in-line with expectations, outlook remains solid but notes higher costs could be a risk to earnings.

Citi retained its buy rating and $44.50 price target. It sees favourable conditions leading into Christmas and Woolworths to outperform supermarket rivals.

The general consensus amongst brokers is a 5–10% upside for the Woolworths share price with anticipated strong earnings growth throughout the Christmas period.