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Jefferies maintains Okta shares at steady rating

Published 10/17/2024, 06:32 PM
OKTA
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Jefferies has maintained a Hold rating on Okta, Inc. (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:OKTA), with a consistent price target of $85.00.

The position comes after the firm's attendance at the Oktane24 conference and a subsequent management Q&A session.

The technology updates presented were seen as slightly incremental, and although Okta is recognized as the leader in the access market, growth challenges are anticipated to ease by the end of the first half of fiscal year 2026.

The management of Okta expressed belief that its Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) and Operational Intelligence Group (OIG) offerings have the potential to revitalize growth. However, they also acknowledged that the outlook remains somewhat unclear. Jefferies' analyst noted this uncertainty but also mentioned the company's long-term strategic vision positively.

Despite the challenges, the analyst highlighted Okta's valuation at 4.4 times the consensus 2025 revenue estimates, suggesting this may provide some protection against downside risks. The firm's stance remains cautious, opting to continue with the Hold rating until there are clearer indications of a growth turnaround for the company.

In other recent news, Okta Inc . reported a 16% year-over-year revenue increase to $646 million, primarily due to a 17% rise in subscription revenue. Despite these positive results, Okta's third-quarter calculated remaining performance obligations (cRPO) guidance fell short of projections, leading to several financial adjustments.

DA Davidson lowered the price target for Okta from $85.00 to $75.00, maintaining a neutral rating on the stock, while BTIG reduced its price target to $98.00 from $128.00, still recommending a buy rating. TD Cowen sustained its Hold rating for Okta with a consistent price target of $110.00, and JPMorgan reiterated its Neutral rating on Okta with a steady price target of $105.00.

In other developments, ServiceNow (NYSE:NOW) faces potential business disruption due to a Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation involving one of its partners, Carahsoft. Keybanc highlighted that the outcome of this investigation is a matter of interest for investors and stakeholders in ServiceNow, given the scale of the company's government-related revenue.

InvestingPro Insights

Okta's financial landscape presents a mixed picture, aligning with Jefferies' cautious stance. According to InvestingPro data, Okta's market capitalization stands at $12.86 billion, with a revenue of $2.45 billion over the last twelve months as of Q2 2025. The company's revenue growth of 18.74% during this period demonstrates its continued expansion in the access market, as noted in the article.

InvestingPro Tips highlight that Okta holds more cash than debt on its balance sheet, which could provide financial flexibility as it navigates growth challenges. This strong liquidity position is further supported by the fact that Okta's liquid assets exceed short-term obligations, potentially offering a buffer against market uncertainties.

The article mentions Okta's potential for growth revival through CIAM and OIG offerings. This aligns with an InvestingPro Tip indicating that net income is expected to grow this year, and analysts predict the company will be profitable this year. These projections could signal a positive turn in Okta's financial performance, which may be of interest to investors watching for signs of a growth turnaround.

For readers seeking a deeper dive into Okta's financial health and prospects, InvestingPro offers 7 additional tips, providing a more comprehensive analysis to inform investment decisions.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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