On Thursday, Bernstein SocGen Group updated their assessment of EasyJet Plc. (EZJ:LN) (OTC: ESYJY), raising the airline's price target to £620 from the previous £535, while maintaining a Market Perform rating. The revision follows EasyJet's reported fourth quarter of 2024 performance, which aligned with consensus expectations, showcasing a headline Profit Before Tax (PBT) of £610 million for the full year.
Trading near its 52-week high of $7.36, EasyJet's stock has delivered an impressive 21% return over the past year. According to InvestingPro analysis, the company appears undervalued at current levels, with several positive indicators supporting its growth trajectory.
The analyst from Bernstein noted EasyJet's consistent performance, citing "stable unit revenues, stable unit costs, Holidays immaculate as usual." With management's guidance indicating a continuation of this trend into 2025, the airline is expected to see an 8% growth in Available Seat Kilometers (ASK) with demand holding steady into the winter season.
Despite the positive outlook, the analyst believes that there is more value to be found in other investments, hence the decision to maintain the Market Perform rating. The company's strong fundamentals are reflected in its GREAT Financial Health Score of 3.35 on InvestingPro, which offers additional insights through 8 more exclusive ProTips.
The company's unit economics in the fourth quarter remained broadly stable year-over-year, with a slight 1% decrease in Revenue per Available Seat Kilometer (RASK) and a 1% increase in Cost per Available Seat Kilometer excluding fuel (CASKx). As EasyJet enters its fiscal year 2025, there is confidence in sustaining its solid performance, supported by robust revenue growth of 13.93% and an attractive P/E ratio of 9.52.
Additionally, EasyJet is undergoing changes in its network configuration, with an unexpected 5% increase in stage length for an airline at its level of maturity. This adjustment is part of the company's strategy, as it anticipates an 8% year-over-year growth in ASKs, which typically dilutes unit revenues and costs but increases on a per-passenger basis.
The airline's strategic adjustments and projected growth come at a time when the aviation industry is keenly watched for its recovery and adaptation strategies post-pandemic disruptions. With a market capitalization of $5.53 billion, EasyJet continues to demonstrate its resilience in the competitive airline sector.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.