Stock Analysis

Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad Earnings Missed Analyst Estimates: Here's What Analysts Are Forecasting Now

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KLSE:KLK

It's shaping up to be a tough period for Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad (KLSE:KLK), which a week ago released some disappointing full-year results that could have a notable impact on how the market views the stock. It wasn't a great result overall - while revenue fell marginally short of analyst estimates at RM22b, statutory earnings missed forecasts by an incredible 40%, coming in at just RM0.54 per share. The analysts typically update their forecasts at each earnings report, and we can judge from their estimates whether their view of the company has changed or if there are any new concerns to be aware of. So we gathered the latest post-earnings forecasts to see what estimates suggest is in store for next year.

Check out our latest analysis for Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad

KLSE:KLK Earnings and Revenue Growth November 28th 2024

Taking into account the latest results, the consensus forecast from Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad's 16 analysts is for revenues of RM24.8b in 2025. This reflects a meaningful 11% improvement in revenue compared to the last 12 months. Statutory earnings per share are predicted to leap 114% to RM1.15. Before this earnings report, the analysts had been forecasting revenues of RM24.4b and earnings per share (EPS) of RM1.15 in 2025. The consensus analysts don't seem to have seen anything in these results that would have changed their view on the business, given there's been no major change to their estimates.

The analysts reconfirmed their price target of RM22.84, showing that the business is executing well and in line with expectations. Fixating on a single price target can be unwise though, since the consensus target is effectively the average of analyst price targets. As a result, some investors like to look at the range of estimates to see if there are any diverging opinions on the company's valuation. Currently, the most bullish analyst values Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad at RM26.55 per share, while the most bearish prices it at RM19.50. There are definitely some different views on the stock, but the range of estimates is not wide enough as to imply that the situation is unforecastable, in our view.

Another way we can view these estimates is in the context of the bigger picture, such as how the forecasts stack up against past performance, and whether forecasts are more or less bullish relative to other companies in the industry. The period to the end of 2025 brings more of the same, according to the analysts, with revenue forecast to display 11% growth on an annualised basis. That is in line with its 10% annual growth over the past five years. Compare this with the broader industry, which analyst estimates (in aggregate) suggest will see revenues grow 4.2% annually. So although Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad is expected to maintain its revenue growth rate, it's definitely expected to grow faster than the wider industry.

The Bottom Line

The most obvious conclusion is that there's been no major change in the business' prospects in recent times, with the analysts holding their earnings forecasts steady, in line with previous estimates. Happily, there were no major changes to revenue forecasts, with the business still expected to grow faster than the wider industry. The consensus price target held steady at RM22.84, with the latest estimates not enough to have an impact on their price targets.

Keeping that in mind, we still think that the longer term trajectory of the business is much more important for investors to consider. We have forecasts for Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad going out to 2027, and you can see them free on our platform here.

You still need to take note of risks, for example - Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad has 2 warning signs we think you should be aware of.

Valuation is complex, but we're here to simplify it.

Discover if Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad might be undervalued or overvalued with our detailed analysis, featuring fair value estimates, potential risks, dividends, insider trades, and its financial condition.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.