Shares of Viking Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:VIK) have received an average rating of “Hold” based on evaluations from seventeen research firms. As reported by MarketBeat.com, the consensus among analysts includes one sell rating, seven hold ratings, and nine buy ratings. The average one-year price target assigned to the stock is set at $61.50.
Analyst Ratings and Price Targets
Recent reports indicate varying perspectives on Viking’s potential. Morgan Stanley raised its price target from $62.00 to $66.00, assigning an “overweight” rating on August 20, 2023. Stifel Nicolaus also increased its target significantly from $50.00 to $75.00, reflecting strong confidence in the company’s prospects.
On November 14, 2023, UBS Group reiterated a “buy” rating with a price target of $69.00. Barclays adjusted its price target slightly from $62.00 to $63.00, maintaining an “equal weight” rating. Additionally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised its target from $64.00 to $66.00, categorizing the stock as “neutral.”
Financial Performance Highlights
Viking Holdings released its latest earnings report on November 19, 2023, revealing earnings per share (EPS) of $1.20 for the quarter, surpassing the consensus estimate of $1.19 by one cent. The company reported quarterly revenue of approximately $2 billion, exceeding expectations of $1.99 billion. The firm noted a net margin of 15.53% and an impressive return on equity of 716.92%. Comparatively, Viking reported an EPS of $0.89 in the same quarter last year, indicating robust growth.
Sell-side analysts forecast that Viking will achieve an EPS of 1.49 for the current year, suggesting continued positive momentum.
Institutional Investment Activity
Recent modifications in institutional holdings indicate growing interest in Viking. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. acquired a new position valued at $26,000 in the third quarter. Similarly, Pittenger & Anderson Inc. and Private Trust Co. NA invested approximately $27,000 and $29,000, respectively, during the second quarter.
CI Investments Inc. significantly boosted its position by 53.1% in the third quarter, now holding 551 shares valued at $34,000. Notably, Allworth Financial LP increased its stake by an astonishing 342.0%, now owning 663 shares worth $41,000.
As of now, institutional investors collectively own 98.84% of Viking Holdings’ stock.
Viking Holdings operates primarily in passenger shipping and related transport sectors across North America, the United Kingdom, and other international markets. The company functions through its River and Ocean segments and also engages in tourism-related activities. As of December 31, 2023, Viking boasted a diverse fleet of 92 ships, which includes 81 river vessels and 9 ocean ships.
With ongoing analyst interest and positive financial indicators, Viking Holdings appears positioned for potential growth in the upcoming year.
