National Bankshares Downgrades Quebecor Shares to Sector Perform

National Bankshares has downgraded its rating for Quebecor (TSE:QBR.B) from “outperform” to “sector perform” in a report released to investors on November 6, 2023. The firm has set a price target of C$54.00 for the stock. This development comes as several other analysts have also reassessed their ratings for the telecom company.

In a separate report dated October 9, Desjardins increased its price target for Quebecor shares from C$43.00 to C$47.00, maintaining a “buy” rating. Following that, Scotiabank adjusted its target from C$43.25 to C$43.50, also issuing a “sector perform” rating on October 20.

On November 7, CIBC raised its price target for Quebecor from C$49.00 to C$54.00, while TD Securities similarly increased its target from C$49.00 to C$52.00 and issued a “buy” rating. Finally, BMO Capital Markets on November 10 adjusted its target from C$47.00 to C$53.00.

As it stands, four research analysts have rated Quebecor with a “buy” designation, while three have given it a “hold” rating. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently holds a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” with an average price target of C$49.86.

Recent Earnings Performance

Quebecor recently published its quarterly earnings results on November 6, revealing earnings per share (EPS) of C$1.02 for the quarter. The company reported a net margin of 12.99% and a return on equity of 37.44%. Total revenue for the quarter reached C$1.41 billion, highlighting the company’s robust financial performance.

Quebecor is predominantly recognized for providing mobile and fixed-line telecommunications services across Quebec, where it holds a leading market position. The company boasts more than 1.8 million internet subscribers, serving over 60% of households within its operational network. In addition, Quebecor has approximately 1.6 million mobile subscribers, accounting for over 20% of the wireless market share in the province.

As Quebecor navigates these market evaluations and adjusts its strategies, the focus remains on maintaining its competitive edge in the telecommunications sector.

For those interested in staying updated, MarketBeat offers a daily newsletter summarizing the latest news and analyst ratings for Quebecor and related companies.