The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, Nov. 8, edition that RBC Dominion Securities analyst Drew McReynolds has reaffirmed his "sector perform" recommendation for BCE. The Globe's David Leeder writes that Mr. McReynolds gave his share target a $2 trim to $45. Analysts on average target the shares at $45.16. Following Thursday's release of "mixed" third quarter financial results, Mr. McReynolds says he is "looking for more timely entry points" into BCE. He reduced his growth and margin assumptions after its 2024 revenue guidance was lowered beyond his expectations. Mr. McReynolds says in a note: "Notwithstanding near-term NAV dilution, we believe the Ziply acquisition along with the pause in dividend growth and institution of the DRIP do provide incremental visibility around the balance sheet trajectory and dividend sustainability, and reinforces management's fibre-first strategy. While we continue to believe BCE is well equipped to navigate a slower revenue environment leaning on a scale advantage, FTTH investment and Internet market share gains, cost efficiencies, an extensive array of tactical initiatives across wireless, wireline and media, and long-term growth in 5G B2B, we look for more timely entry points."
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