The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday edition that Stifel analyst Cole Pereira is sticking with his "hold" call for Step Energy Services. The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Pereira tweaked his share target ahead by 25 cents to $4.75. Analysts on average target the shares at $5.91. Mr. Pereira says in a note: "Step Energy delivered a record quarter, representing a significant rebound after a challenging 4Q23. Step's Canadian business posted revenue and EBITDAS records, and is expected to remain strong through 3Q24 despite volatile natural gas prices, helping offset a year-over-year contraction in the U.S. Our EBITDAS forecasts increase 4 per cent in 2024 ($189-million) and 5 per cent in 2025 ($204-million). ... We downgraded the stock post-4Q23 on concerns about the U.S. fracturing market, though the company has been able to partially offset these thus far with its Canadian business. While we expect its U.S. business to worsen in upcoming quarters, if continued strength from its Canadian business helps offset this, it could see its earnings profile remain more resilient and warrant a revisit -- though we remain cautious near-term. Step's valuation remains inexpensive."