Evercore upgrades Block on lower lending risk and steady consumer trends
Investing.com -- Evercore ISI upgraded shares of Block Inc to Outperform from In Line citing reduced risk in Cash App lending, solid low-end consumer trends, and promising product and sales execution.Analysts also raised its price target to $75 from $58, implying about 21% upside.
The firm said initial concerns over aggressive lending following Block's first-quarter earnings have eased. Evercore believes Block's lending strategy is more balanced than feared, with a diversified risk profile and controlled expansion, especially within Cash App Borrow.
Evercore also noted that low-end consumer spending remains stable, supported by steady unemployment deposits and consistent payment activity. This follows management commentary in May that Cash App gross profit growth improved to 13% year-over-year in April, up from 7% in March.
The analysts highlighted recent product launches at Square, including new hardware and a consolidated app, as positive signs of improved development efficiency following an internal reorganization.
Additionally, Evercore pointed to early success in revamping sales efforts under Nick Molnar, noting progress in tele-sales and field sales teams. These go-to-market changes, combined with product improvements, are seen as setting up Square for stronger growth.
Despite a recent bounce in shares, Block shares are still down 27% year-to-date, and Evercore views the stock as attractively valued relative to peers and historical multiples.
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