Standex International (NYSE:SXI) experienced a shift in its stock rating this week, as Wall Street Zen downgraded it from a “buy” to a “hold” rating. This change, outlined in a report released on Sunday, marks a notable pivot for the industrial products company, which has garnered attention from various research analysts recently.
While Wall Street Zen adjusted its outlook, other analysts remain optimistic. DA Davidson maintained its “buy” rating and set a price target of $272.00 for Standex shares on November 24. Similarly, Roth Mkm raised its price target from $205.00 to $260.00, while reaffirming a “buy” rating in a note dated November 3. Barrington Research echoed this sentiment, restating an “outperform” rating and also issuing a price target of $260.00 on January 26. Currently, four analysts rate the stock as a buy, while one has issued a hold rating. According to MarketBeat.com, the consensus rating stands at “Moderate Buy” with a target price of $264.00.
Recent Earnings and Insider Activity
Standex International reported its quarterly earnings on January 29, revealing an earnings per share (EPS) of $2.08, surpassing analysts’ expectations of $2.00 by $0.08. The company generated revenue of $221.30 million, exceeding the forecast of $219.22 million. This represented a year-over-year revenue increase of 16.6%. In the same quarter last year, Standex earned an EPS of $1.91. Analysts predict the company will post an EPS of $7.90 for the current year.
Amid these financial disclosures, insider trading activity has also drawn attention. On November 20, Director Thomas E. Chorman sold 1,000 shares at an average price of $223.31, totaling $223,310.00. Post-sale, he holds 13,229 shares valued at approximately $2,954,168, representing a 7.03% reduction in his position. Additionally, CFO Ademir Sarcevic sold 1,823 shares on November 4 for $230.12 each, amounting to $419,508.76. After this transaction, he owns 9,341 shares, valued at around $2,149,551, reflecting a 16.33% decrease in his stake. In total, insiders sold 3,473 shares worth $794,509 in the last ninety days, with company insiders holding 2.52% of the stock.
Institutional Investment Trends
Standex International has seen varied institutional interest recently. Kohmann Bosshard Financial Services LLC acquired a new position valued at approximately $188,000 in the fourth quarter. Similarly, Torren Management LLC purchased shares worth $136,000 during this period. UBS Group AG increased its stake by 66.8%, now owning 91,443 shares valued at $19,869,000 after acquiring an additional 36,634 shares. Round Rock Advisors LLC also expanded its holdings by 34.5%, owning 4,017 shares valued at $873,000. Notably, institutional investors currently control 90.35% of the company’s stock.
Standex International Corporation is recognized as a diversified global manufacturer, specializing in food service equipment, engineered components, and industrial products. The company operates across multiple sectors, providing commercial cooking solutions, precision-engraved nameplates, fluid power hydraulics, and magnetics-based electronics. Its key market segments include Food Service Equipment, Engraving & Decorating, Hydraulics, Industrial Electronics, and Technical Graphical Solutions.
As Standex navigates these recent developments, stakeholders will be keenly observing how the company responds to market expectations and adjusts its strategic initiatives moving forward.
