-- CFRA, an independent research provider, has providedwith the following research alert. Analysts at CFRA have summarized their opinion as follows:
We raise our 12-month price target to $440 from $417, based on a 2027 P/E of 18.4x, in-line with the stock's 10-year average forward P/E. We increase our adjusted EPS estimates to $21.15 from $21.12 for '26 and to $23.90 from $23.85 for '27. CSL posted Q1 adjusted EPS of $3.63 vs. $3.61 (+1%), well ahead of the $3.34 consensus. The quarter was characterized by stronger-than-expected margins, as revenue fell 4% to $1.05B ($11M below consensus) and adjusted EBIT margin expanded 30 bps to 17.1% (100 bps ahead of consensus). CSL shares traded 7% higher after the release on Thursday. In our view, the biggest positive was the margin expansion of the CCM segment (~72% of total quarterly revenue), which came despite a 5% revenue decline. We think management's path to $40 EPS under Vision 2030 is achievable through organic growth, margin expansion potential, and an accelerating innovation pipeline. Exceptional cash flow, a strong balance sheet, and strong returns to shareholders contribute to our Buy view.