Broker gives its verdict on the Wesfarmers (ASX:WES) share price

Is it too late to buy Wesfarmers' shares?

| More on:
watch

Image source: Getty Images

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 Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) share price is edging higher on Monday afternoon.

At the time of writing, the conglomerate's shares are up 0.3% to $57.95.

This means Wesfarmers' shares are now up a decent 12.5% since the start of the year.

Is the Wesfarmers share price still good value?

Unfortunately, one leading broker believes the Wesfarmers share price could have peaked for the time being.

According to a note out of Citi from last week, its analysts have retained their sell rating but lifted their price target slightly to $49.00.

Based on the current Wesfarmers share price, this implies potential downside of approximately 15.5% over the next 12 months.

What did the broker say?

While Citi notes that Wesfarmers delivered a result in line with its expectations in FY 2021, it has concerns about the year ahead. This is due to the company cycling a strong sales period and facing lengthy COVID-related store closures.

The broker commented: "Wesfarmers delivered an in line result, reporting $2,421 million in underlying NPAT for FY21. Store closures and cycling of a strong sales base presents challenges in FY22e."

In addition, Citi highlights that Wesfarmers' retail businesses are facing a number of headwinds.

It explained: "The result featured many topics familiar to retailers: supply-chain disruptions, rising freight and commodity costs, transition to online, and increasing investment in digital and automation."

And while it was pleased with its capital return announcement, it simply isn't enough for a more positive rating due to the current Wesfarmers share price valuation.

Citi concluded: "The company announced a $2.3 billion capital return program. We upgrade earnings and Target Price to $49.00 on better-than-expected result from Kmart Group but maintain Sell on valuation grounds."

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 Wesfarmers 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

Modern accountant woman in a light business suit in modern green office with documents and laptop.
Technology Shares

Is the WiseTech share price heading for $200?

The path is set, according to one broker.

Read more »

A happy male investor turns around on his chair to look at a friend while a laptop runs on his desk showing share price movements
Broker Notes

Goldman Sachs says these ASX 300 stocks can rise 15% to 30%

Let's see what the broker is saying about these buy-rated stocks.

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

This ASX All Ords stock is undervalued and could rocket 60%+

Bell Potter is tipping this share to deliver big returns for investors.

Read more »

High fashion look. glamor closeup portrait of beautiful sexy stylish Caucasian young woman model with bright makeup, with red lips, with perfect clean skin.
Broker Notes

2 ASX All Ords shares top brokers rate as a 'buy'

See what the latest is for these two names.

Read more »

A cool young man walking in a laneway holding a takeaway coffee in one hand and his phone in the other reacts with surprise as he reads the latest news on his mobile phone
Broker Notes

This ASX 200 share is one of 'the highest quality businesses on the ASX'

Let's see which stock analysts at Wilsons rate incredibly highly right now.

Read more »

Young woman in yellow striped top with laptop raises arm in victory
Broker Notes

Buy this ASX 300 stock for 20% upside and a 6% yield

Analysts at Bell Potter think investors should be buying this stock before it's too late.

Read more »

young woman reviewing financial reports at desk with multiple computer screens
Broker Notes

Leading brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's why brokers believe that now could be the time to snap up these stocks.

Read more »

Woman in celebratory fist move looking at phone
Broker Notes

Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week

Brokers gave buy ratings to these ASX shares last week. Why are they bullish?

Read more »