Martyn Clark, an insider at Crest Nicholson Holdings plc, purchased 113 shares of the company’s stock on December 10, 2023. The transaction took place at an average price of GBX 132 per share, resulting in a total expenditure of £149.16. This acquisition adds to a series of recent purchases by Clark, reflecting a continued investment in the firm.
On November 10, 2023, Clark acquired 91 shares at an average price of GBX 124, totaling £112.84. Earlier, on October 10, he bought another 91 shares at an average price of GBX 165, for a total of £150.15. These transactions indicate Clark’s confidence in the company’s future performance.
Current Stock Performance and Analyst Ratings
As of December 15, 2023, shares of Crest Nicholson opened at GBX 129.30, marking a decline of 1.5%. The stock has experienced fluctuations over the past year, with a low of GBX 125.71 and a high of GBX 198.50. Currently, the company holds a market capitalization of £331.47 million and has a price-to-earnings (PE) ratio of -4.51, indicating negative earnings.
Crest Nicholson’s current ratio stands at 3.27, while its quick ratio is 0.72. The company has a significant debt-to-equity ratio of 12.94, raising questions about its financial stability. Additionally, its 50-day moving average is GBX 155.50 and the 200-day moving average is GBX 168.13.
Analyst Insights and Future Projections
Recent reports from equity research analysts reflect a cautious outlook for Crest Nicholson. Berenberg Bank adjusted its price target from GBX 195 to GBX 180, maintaining a “hold” rating. Peel Hunt reiterated an “add” rating with a target price of GBX 190. Meanwhile, Jefferies Financial Group revised its target down from GBX 254 to GBX 251 while keeping a “buy” rating. On December 4, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered its target from GBX 190 to GBX 160, assigning a “neutral” rating.
Currently, two analysts have given the stock a “buy” rating, while two others have assigned a “hold” rating. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” with an average price target of GBX 195.25.
Crest Nicholson, founded in 1963 and headquartered in Addlestone, United Kingdom, specializes in the development and sale of residential homes, including apartments and commercial properties. The company’s activities in the housing market are crucial as it navigates a challenging economic environment.
Investors and analysts alike will be watching closely for any further developments as Crest Nicholson continues to position itself in the competitive residential property market.
