BMO maintains Workiva Outperform rating amid CSRD changes

Published 23/01/2025, 04:42 am
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Wednesday, Workiva Inc . (NYSE:WK), which has seen an impressive 57.41% price return over the past six months according to InvestingPro data, retained its Outperform rating and $120.00 price target from BMO Capital Markets, despite emerging reports that the German and French governments may seek alterations to the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). The directive, which mandates sustainability reporting for companies, is considered a significant catalyst for Workiva's growth, particularly as it expands in the European market.

BMO Capital's analysis suggests that the proposed adjustments to the CSRD, which might limit the compliance requirements for mid-sized companies, are not expected to significantly affect Workiva's business due to the company's strategic focus. However, the analyst noted that potential delays in the implementation of these changes could influence purchasing decisions in the calendar year 2025. InvestingPro analysis indicates that Workiva is currently trading above its Fair Value, with 11 additional exclusive insights available to subscribers.

Workiva, known for its cloud-based compliance and regulatory reporting software and maintaining impressive gross profit margins of 76.72%, has identified the sustainability reporting sector in Europe as a major opportunity, with a total addressable market valued in the billions. The company's market capitalization stands at $5.7 billion, with revenue growing at 16.18% over the last twelve months. The CSRD is a key part of this landscape, as it aims to increase transparency and accountability of corporate sustainability practices.

The BMO Capital analyst emphasized that while the proposed changes might introduce some uncertainty, the impact on Workiva would likely be modest. The firm's emphasis on larger entities as its primary customer base is expected to mitigate the effects of any policy modifications affecting mid-sized businesses.

The company's stock performance will continue to be monitored closely by investors as the situation with the CSRD evolves. Workiva's ability to adapt to regulatory changes and maintain its growth trajectory in the European market will be key factors in its ongoing success.

In other recent news, Workiva has experienced several significant developments. Amid uncertainty over potential amendments to the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Workiva's shares fell. The CSRD, which is seen as a growth driver for Workiva, could face changes that may impact the company's expansion in Europe. BMO Capital analyst Daniel Jester maintained an Outperform rating on Workiva despite these uncertainties.

On a positive note, Workiva received upgrades from several financial firms. Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James analyst Brian Peterson raised the rating from Market Perform to Outperform, citing the company's strong third-quarter performance in 2024 and potential for sustained growth in subscription revenue. Stifel upgraded Workiva from Hold to Buy, with a raised price target, due to a positive outlook on Workiva's core subscription business. Baird also maintained an Outperform rating on Workiva shares, increasing the price target to $130.

Lastly, BMO Capital Markets raised Workiva's stock price target from $104.00 to $120.00, maintaining an Outperform rating. This adjustment was driven by Workiva's anticipated significant role for large companies in Europe preparing for the CSRD. These are the recent developments that have shaped Workiva's current standing in the market.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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