HP (HPQ:NYE) made a compelling announcement at its recent Securities Analyst Meeting. The company shared its financial outlook for 2024. The forecast promises significant year-over-year growth in its earnings per share (EPS). Alongside this, the renowned manufacturer of personal computing and printing products declared an uptick in its annual dividend. This article will highlight the impact of this development on the HP stock forecast.
HP’s Fiscal 2024 Vision:
HP’s leadership unveiled a bullish projection for fiscal 2024, expecting to deliver adjusted earnings per share within the range of $3.25 to $3.65. This estimate showcases a marked improvement over its earlier guidance for Fiscal 2023, which stood at $3.23 to $3.35 per share.
The year-over-year surge in EPS is a testament to HP’s unwavering commitment to enhancing its cost structure. This, coupled with a resurgence in demand and robust share buyback initiatives, is poised to fortify its bottom line.
Financial Strength and Dividend Increase:
Moreover, in a move that underscores its financial strength and optimism, HP has decided to raise its annual dividend by 5%, pushing it to $1.10 per share. This generous increase is a direct result of the company’s enhanced cost efficiency and the expansion of its earnings base.
Calculated against its closing stock price on October 10, this adjustment yields a forward yield exceeding 4.2%. Furthermore, HP is committed to returning all of its free cash flows in fiscal 2024 to its shareholders, primarily through dividends and strategic share repurchases.
HPQ’s CFO on Maximizing Growth:
Marie Myers, the CFO of HP, emphasized the company’s resolute focus on accelerating cost savings, augmenting EPS, and nurturing free cash flows. She affirms that this commitment is instrumental in enabling HP to “maximize growth” and generate more substantial value for its shareholders.
To solidify its commitment to growth and sound financial performance, HPQ reaffirmed its full-year sales and earnings outlook. The company anticipates a consistent 2-4% growth in its top-line revenue over the long term. Additionally, its adjusted EPS is poised to surge at a high single-digit rate.
Analyst Perspective: HPQ’s Prospects
Goldman Sachs analyst Mike Ng revised his EPS estimates for HPQ upwards. Ng is optimistic about HP’s PC market outlook. This is due to the replacement cycle, AI advancements, the Windows OS refresh, and hybrid work models. However, Ng maintained a “hold” recommendation on HPQ stock due to challenges within the printing segment and certain near-term pricing headwinds.
Bank of America Merrill Lynch has upgraded its ‘Buy’ rating with a revised price target of USD 33, up from the previous USD 25.
HP Stock Forecast:
Based on the HPQ stock forecast from seven analysts, the average target price is $30.55 for October 2024. The consensus among these analysts suggests a “hold” rating. Furthermore, Stock Target Advisor’s analysts are “slightly bullish.” This evaluation is based on six positive and three negative signals.
HPQ Stock Outlook:
At the last closing, the stock price was $26.43. This price has changed by +1.15% over the past week, -10.25% over the past month, and +5.76% over the last year.
Conclusion:
HP’s strong 2024 EPS forecast and increased annual dividend underscore its commitment to shareholder value. Proactive cost management and growth strategies position HP for success in technology. While some analysts are cautious, overall prospects suggest growth and stability ahead.
