Top broker still thinks the Qantas (ASX:QAN) share price is great value

Times may be hard for this airline but one broker sees a lot of value in its shares…

| More on:

Should you invest $1,000 in News Corp right now?

Before you buy News Corp shares, consider this:

Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now... and News Corp wasn't one of them.

The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys...

See The 5 Stocks *Returns as of 30 April 2025

qantas share price

Image Source: Qantas

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN) share price is under pressure on Monday.

In afternoon trade, the airline operator's shares are down 1.5% to $4.64.

Why is the Qantas share price under pressure?

The weakness in the Qantas share price on Monday appears to have been driven by concerns over Australia's COVID-19 outbreak.

With New South Wales continuing to report high levels of new infections and Victoria extending its lockdown, investors appear to believe the domestic travel market recovery could be further delayed.

Fellow travel shares Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT) and Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) are also trading notably lower today.

Is this a buying opportunity?

According to a note out of Citi this morning, its analysts see a lot of value in the Qantas share price at the current level.

This morning the broker retained its buy rating, albeit with a trimmed price target of $5.61.

Based on the current Qantas share price, this implies potential upside of almost 21% over the next 12 months.

What did the broker say?

The broker has been looking into border restrictions and lockdowns. While these will weigh on the company's performance, Citi believes Qantas will be okay financially if it is just New South Wales that is locked down.

Citi commented: "Given heightened lockdown fears, we attempt to look through the noise and quantify the potential impact of border restrictions. Overall we estimate the relevant number we'll keep our eye on is ~60% for capacity. At this level we believe EBITDA loses will be manageable, and only minor strain placed on the balance sheet. Theoretically we estimate capacity could remain at this level with just New South Wales locked down. However, the same can't be said if we go into sustained lockdowns in other major states at the same time."

In light of this, it is keeping its buy rating on the Qantas share price for the time being. Though, it may reassess its recommendation if things escalate.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Webjet Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Flight Centre Travel Group Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Broker Notes

Man pointing at a blue rising share price graph.
Technology Shares

Up 30% in a month, this ASX 200 tech share is 'a compelling opportunity': expert

Analysts from listed investment company WAM Capital say this ASX 200 tech stock is worth watching.

Read more »

An executive in a suit smooths his hair and laughs as he looks at his laptop feeling surprised and delighted.
Broker Notes

Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's why brokers are feeling bullish about these three shares this week.

Read more »

View of a mine site.
Broker Notes

How much upside does Macquarie tip for Deterra Royalties shares?

Deterra Royalties offers ASX investors a different way to invest in global mining.

Read more »

Woman with $50 notes in her hand thinking, symbolising dividends.
Broker Notes

Broker reveals outlook for ASX dividend shares amid volatile market

Peter Gardner from Plato Investment Management tells ASX investors where to look for dividend income this year.

Read more »

A man has a surprised and relieved expression on his face. as he raises his hands up to his face in response to the high fluctuations in the Galileo share price today
Broker Notes

Leading broker puts buy rating on Zip shares

Big returns could be on offer for investors according to its analysts.

Read more »

gaming asx share price rise represented by slot machine paying jackpot
Broker Notes

What does Macquarie expect from Aristocrat Leisure shares when it reports on 14 May?

Here's what the broker is expecting from this gaming technology company next week.

Read more »

Broker written in white with a man drawing a yellow underline.
Broker Notes

Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's what brokers are recommending as buys this week.

Read more »

A man holding a cup of coffee puts his thumb up and smiles while at laptop.
Broker Notes

Goldman Sachs says these ASX 200 stocks are strong buys

The broker is feeling very bullish about these stocks. But why?

Read more »