Jack in the Box Balance Sheet Health
Financial Health criteria checks 0/6
Jack in the Box has a total shareholder equity of $-922.1M and total debt of $1.6B, which brings its debt-to-equity ratio to -172%. Its total assets and total liabilities are $2.0B and $2.9B respectively. Jack in the Box's EBIT is $159.6M making its interest coverage ratio 2.1. It has cash and short-term investments of $43.0M.
Key information
-172.05%
Debt to equity ratio
US$1.59b
Debt
| Interest coverage ratio | 2.1x |
| Cash | US$43.04m |
| Equity | -US$922.05m |
| Total liabilities | US$2.93b |
| Total assets | US$2.01b |
Recent financial health updates
No updates
Recent updates
Narrative Update • May 18
JACK: Turnaround Plan Will Rely On 2026 EBITDA Recovery Under New Interim CEO
Jack in the Box's analyst-derived fair value estimate has been reduced from $20.56 to $18.26, as analysts reset price targets across the board in response to weaker same-store sales, lowered guidance, leadership changes, ongoing concern about franchisee profitability, and upcoming refinancing costs. Analyst Commentary Recent research shows a wide range of views on Jack in the Box, with most firms cutting price targets but differing on how much value they still see in the stock.
Narrative Update • May 03
JACK: Weak Same Store Sales And Governance Turmoil Will Pressure Future Returns
Jack in the Box's analyst price target has been lowered by a cluster of recent Street revisions, with cuts such as Citi's $9 move and several other trims that are being framed around softer same-store-sales trends, limited unit growth, and questions around margin visibility. Analyst Commentary Recent research activity around Jack in the Box has tilted more cautious, with a series of price target cuts following company updates that highlighted pressure on same-store-sales, limited unit growth, and questions around margin visibility.Narrative Update • Apr 16
JACK: Weak Same Store Sales And Governance Fight Will Pressure Future Returns
Analysts have trimmed the Jack in the Box price target by a few dollars, reflecting ongoing concerns around weak same store sales trends, limited unit growth, and margin visibility, even as some recent research points to a potential second half same store sales recovery and modestly better long term profitability assumptions. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Jack in the Box reflects a mixed tone, but the cautious signals stand out.Seeking Alpha • Apr 16
Jack in the Box: Inside The Boardroom Overhaul
Summary Jack in the Box is undergoing a boardroom overhaul, with activist-backed directors and Mark King as chairman aiming to drive a turnaround. JACK faces high leverage (net debt/EBITDA ~6.3x) and must prioritize deleveraging, with FCF projected at $60–70 million in FY 2026. Strategic focus includes margin expansion, franchisee profitability, and selective geographic growth, but execution risks remain high. I view JACK as a tactical Hold; upside exists if turnaround gains traction, but tangible improvements are needed before a re-rating. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaNarrative Update • Apr 01
JACK: Sales Pressures And Governance Fight Will Shape Returns Going Forward
The analyst price target for Jack in the Box has been revised lower from $16 to $10, as analysts factor in weaker same store sales trends, softer revenue expectations, and reduced margin visibility highlighted across recent research updates. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on Jack in the Box shows a split view, but the more cautious voices have started to weigh more heavily as weaker same store sales trends and softer revenue expectations become clearer.Narrative Update • Dec 19
JACK: Turnaround Plan Will Seek EBITDA Recovery Amid Ongoing Sales And Margin Pressures
Analysts have trimmed their average price target on Jack in the Box to about $20.56 from $19.89, reflecting modestly higher long term valuation multiples even as they factor in Del Taco's sale, weak same store sales trends, and a multi year turnaround under the Jack on Track plan in a challenging quick service backdrop. Analyst Commentary Street research following the latest quarterly update has coalesced around lower price targets, but with a split view on the long term potential of Jack in the Box as a streamlined, standalone brand following the Del Taco sale.Narrative Update • Dec 05
JACK: Turnaround Efforts Will Navigate Weaker Sales Toward Modest 2026 Recovery
The analyst price target for Jack in the Box has been reduced by approximately $0.43 per share to about $19.89, as analysts factor in weaker near term same store sales, margin pressures despite modestly better profit margins, and updated 2026 guidance for the standalone business following the Del Taco sale. Analyst Commentary Analysts remain divided on Jack in the Box following the Q4 earnings release and the announced sale of Del Taco.Narrative Update • Nov 21
JACK: Ongoing Turnaround Efforts Will Drive Sequential Sales Improvement Into 2026
Analysts have lowered their price target for Jack in the Box from approximately $23.06 to $20.32. They cite persistent same-store sales pressures, softer industry trends, and the company's revised guidance following the Del Taco divestiture and recent earnings results.Narrative Update • Aug 08
Chicago And Durham Markets Will Spur Urban Modernization
With Jack in the Box’s future P/E and revenue growth forecasts both essentially unchanged, the consensus analyst price target saw only a negligible downward adjustment to $25.00. What's in the News Jack in the Box updated earnings guidance for fiscal 2025 to operating EPS of $4.55 to $4.73.Analysis Article • Jul 22
Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ:JACK) Stock Catapults 29% Though Its Price And Business Still Lag The Industry
Jack in the Box Inc. ( NASDAQ:JACK ) shareholders are no doubt pleased to see that the share price has bounced 29% in...Analysis Article • May 30
Revenues Working Against Jack in the Box Inc.'s (NASDAQ:JACK) Share Price Following 25% Dive
Unfortunately for some shareholders, the Jack in the Box Inc. ( NASDAQ:JACK ) share price has dived 25% in the last...New Narrative • May 08
Technology Upgrades And New Restaurants Will Drive Future Success
Strategic investments in technology and menu optimization are driving enhanced customer engagement, revenue growth, and improved margins through digital sales and increased check sizes.Seeking Alpha • Mar 31
Jack In The Box: A New Hope Inside The Box
Summary Jack in the Box remains profitable amid inflation, supported by operational efficiency and a strong balance sheet, positioning it for a potential rebound. JACK's focus on franchised restaurants reduces capital requirements and stabilizes cash flow, making it resilient against inflationary pressures and interest rate fluctuations. Despite high borrowings, JACK's cash reserves and fixed interest rates provide stability, with a DCF model indicating a 20% upside potential, making the stock undervalued. Technical indicators suggest potential entry points as JACK trades near its 52-week low, with early signs of a bullish divergence and decreasing selling pressure. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Mar 29
Revenues Working Against Jack in the Box Inc.'s (NASDAQ:JACK) Share Price Following 28% Dive
To the annoyance of some shareholders, Jack in the Box Inc. ( NASDAQ:JACK ) shares are down a considerable 28% in the...Analysis Article • Mar 15
Jack in the Box (NASDAQ:JACK) Is Due To Pay A Dividend Of $0.44
Jack in the Box Inc.'s ( NASDAQ:JACK ) investors are due to receive a payment of $0.44 per share on 8th of April. The...Seeking Alpha • Mar 03
Jack in the Box: Why Earnings Trends Matter More Than The CEO Shift
Summary Jack in the Box experienced significant volatility following the unexpected resignation of CEO Harris, but Q1 FY 2025 results exceeded EPS expectations, showing resilience. Despite a 3.7% year-over-year decline in top-line sales and challenges from Del Taco, Jack in the Box's same-store sales increased slightly, indicating stability. The company is focusing on innovation and expansion, particularly in Florida and Georgia, while continuing to reduce debt and manage costs effectively. With positive signs from restructuring and strategic expansion, I maintain a $60 price target for Jack in the Box, offering a potential 58% upside. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Mar 01
Jack in the Box (NASDAQ:JACK) Is Due To Pay A Dividend Of $0.44
Jack in the Box Inc. ( NASDAQ:JACK ) has announced that it will pay a dividend of $0.44 per share on the 8th of April...Analysis Article • Jan 08
An Intrinsic Calculation For Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ:JACK) Suggests It's 41% Undervalued
Key Insights Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Jack in the Box fair value estimate is US$66.55 Current share...Seeking Alpha • Jan 05
Jack in the Box: The Undervalued Gem Poised To Double In 2025
Summary Jack in the Box is well positioned 2-3x through 2025-2029. A 4.3% dividend is well-supported by cash flow. JACK stock is trading at 43% of its historical valuation based on FY25 estimates. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Dec 26
Jack In The Box: The Market's Cheapest QSR Just Got Cheaper
Summary Jack In The Box is undervalued due to macro headwinds, but improving QSR industry conditions and strategic expansions suggest a strong buy opportunity. Despite a 50% loss in value, Jack In The Box's sales trends and operational adjustments indicate potential for recovery and growth. Industry optimism and better-than-expected Q4 results for QSRs support an upgrade to 'Strong Buy' for Jack In The Box. Even in worst-case scenarios, Jack In The Box's intrinsic valuation models show the stock is undervalued, with significant upside potential. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Nov 26
Jack in the Box (NASDAQ:JACK) Has Announced A Dividend Of $0.44
The board of Jack in the Box Inc. ( NASDAQ:JACK ) has announced that it will pay a dividend of $0.44 per share on the...Seeking Alpha • Nov 25
Jack in the Box: The Wind Of Change Blows Strong, Chicagoland And Florida Eagerly Await
Summary Jack in the Box is addressing California's labor inflation and competitive pressures with price increases, value promotions, and new market expansions, showing resilience despite challenging conditions. Digital sales and loyalty programs are key growth drivers, with investments in new POS systems and mobile apps to enhance customer engagement and sales. Comparable sales have bottomed out, signaling recovery, with new restaurant openings and market entries expected to boost top-line growth in FY 2025. I reiterate a 'Buy' rating for Jack in the Box with a price target of $60, reflecting a 25% upside and a positive outlook amidst industry skepticism. Comparable sales in October are up 1% year-over-year, signaling recovery based on developments in the second half of FY 2024. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Nov 24
Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ:JACK) Just Reported Earnings, And Analysts Cut Their Target Price
It's been a good week for Jack in the Box Inc. ( NASDAQ:JACK ) shareholders, because the company has just released its...Seeking Alpha • Oct 09
Jack in the Box: Del Taco Takes Another Shot At Value Promotions
Summary Del Taco's performance has been weak due to declining value perceptions and rising operating costs, particularly in California where 60% of its locations are concentrated. The QSR sector faces challenges as diners view fast food as a luxury, leading to traffic declines and increased competition from fast-casual and casual dining. Del Taco's delayed promotional adjustments, like the Mucho Meal$, aim to revive traffic but may have limited immediate impact compared to Jack in the Box's earlier initiatives. Despite risks, I maintain a 'Buy' rating on Jack in the Box, citing long-term growth potential and strategic market expansion outside California. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaFinancial Position Analysis
Short Term Liabilities: JACK has negative shareholder equity, which is a more serious situation than short term assets not covering short term liabilities.
Long Term Liabilities: JACK has negative shareholder equity, which is a more serious situation than short term assets not covering long term liabilities.
Debt to Equity History and Analysis
Debt Level: JACK has negative shareholder equity, which is a more serious situation than a high debt level.
Reducing Debt: JACK's has negative shareholder equity, so we do not need to check if its debt has reduced over time.
Debt Coverage: JACK's debt is not well covered by operating cash flow (6.1%).
Interest Coverage: JACK's interest payments on its debt are not well covered by EBIT (2.1x coverage).
Balance Sheet
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Company Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/05/20 12:04 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/05/20 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/04/12 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/09/28 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
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| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
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| Market Prices | 30 years |
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| Ownership | 10 years |
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| Management | 10 years |
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| Key Developments | 10 years |
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* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
Details of the analysis model used to generate this report is available on our Github page, we also have guides on how to use our reports and tutorials on Youtube.
Learn about the world class team who designed and built the Simply Wall St analysis model.
Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
Jack in the Box Inc. is covered by 36 analysts. 17 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| David Tarantino | Baird |
| Jeffrey Bernstein | Barclays |
| Sara Senatore | BofA Global Research |