Stock Market Reaction to Forward Air's Acquisition
Forward Air (NASDAQ: FWRD) stock has experienced a 7.8% decline in pre-market Friday trading as a result of rating downgrades by a minimum of three analysts. This drop indicates a strong market reaction to the company's recent business moves.
Concerns Over the $3.2 Billion Deal with Omni Logistics
These downgrades stem from concerns that the company's $3.2 billion acquisition of Omni Logistics might usher in novel risks to its business. The acquisition brings in both potential growth and uncertainty, leading to a reevaluation by market experts.
Wolfe Research's Downgrade and Expectations
Wolfe Research analysts cut the rating to Underperform from Peer Perform. They cited reasons including the expectation of significant EPS dilution in C24 and a material lowering of their C24 EPS estimate. Their concerns highlight the possible financial impacts of the deal.
Stifel's Shift in Stance: Price Target Lowered
Stifel analysts moved to Hold from Buy with a price target lowered by $24 to $103 per share. They stated that although management anticipates significant cash earnings accretion by year 2, there is sizable execution risk and potential revenue dis-synergies as Forward ingests one of its largest customers. The downgrade emphasizes the risks and complexities involved in the acquisition.
