On Thursday, Bunge Limited’s (NYSE:) stock rating was downgraded from Buy to Neutral by a Citi analyst, with a reduced price target set to $114 from the previous $125.
The adjustment reflects concerns about persistent earnings pressures within the industry, particularly in North America. Factors contributing to these pressures include an increase in industry crush capacity and a slower demand growth from the US biofuels sector than initially anticipated.
The analyst also pointed out that the forthcoming acquisition of Viterra might not significantly enhance Bunge’s earnings per share (EPS) due to the current less favorable margin environment.
This outlook contrasts with the more optimistic expectations set when the acquisition was first announced. Furthermore, Bunge’s capital expenditure plans for the coming years are expected to be more substantial than previously estimated.
Despite the downgrade, there is still an expectation that Bunge’s strategic moves, including the Viterra acquisition, planned capital projects, and share repurchase initiatives, will contribute to an increase in EPS over time.
This projection holds even if the industry conditions do not show signs of improvement. However, the anticipated benefits are not sufficient to maintain a more positive rating on the stock at this time.
In other recent news, Bunge Global SA reported solid adjusted EBIT for the second quarter of 2024 and a favorable margin environment in certain regions.
The company also announced its progress in the regulatory approval process for its merger with Viterra, expecting to finalize the transaction in the coming months.
Bunge’s full-year adjusted EPS forecast has been set at approximately $9.25, reflecting the company’s commitment to strengthening its core businesses and rewarding stakeholders.
The company has also made strides in expanding its canola operations, harvesting over 5,000 acres of winter canola with plans to increase this to 35,000 acres. Furthermore, Bunge tested a blockchain-based traceability platform for sustainable soy with CP Foods, reflecting its focus on sustainability.
However, Bunge acknowledges the lack of liquidity and visibility in the upcoming quarters and predicts market transitions that may pressure margins. The company also reported lower soybean meal exports to Europe, although this resulted in strong margins in that region.
Finally, Bunge’s CFO, John Neppl, expressed confidence in the company’s performance above baseline expectations and their preparedness for financing the Viterra deal. These are the recent developments in the company.
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