Could Liontown shares really rally another 32%?

This lithium developer just signed a new debt deal. Is your sign to buy?

| More on:

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

Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares were on form on Wednesday.

The lithium developer's shares were up as much as 18% at one stage before ending the day with a 6% gain to $1.40.

Investors were buying the company's shares after it entered into a $550 million debt facility agreement.

These funds will be used to ensure the Kathleen Valley Lithium Project is funded through to its first production and the ramp-up to the company's three million tonnes per year base case.

Middle age caucasian man smiling confident drinking coffee at home.

Image source: Getty Images

Can Liontown shares keep rising?

One leading broker that believes the worst is over for the company is Wilsons.

In response to its debt funding news, the broker upgraded Liontown's shares to an overweight rating. It also lifted its price target massively to $1.85 from 85 cents.

Based on where its shares ended yesterday's session, this implies potential upside of 32% for investors.

The broker believes that this agreement means that the company is now fully funded through to positive cash flow in early 2025.

It also highlights that "now that funding has been finalized, another major de-risking hurdle has been cleared on that way to commissioning."

Sitting on the fence

One broker that doesn't think investors should jump in just yet is Goldman Sachs.

This morning, the broker responded to the news by retaining its neutral rating and $1.45 price target on its shares. This is largely in line with where they trade today.

Though, it agrees with the view that Liontown will be generating positive free cash flow next year. Goldman said:

We forecast Kathleen Valley turning FCF positive from mid-CY25 on our spodumene price forecast, which we expect to support any refinancing of the debt if not already agreed prior, where LTR is continuing to explore options for a longer-term funding solution in parallel to provide future flexibility and optionality beyond the 3Mtpa base case.

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 positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Materials Shares

A smiling man wearing a collared blue shirt and black jacket holds a piece of black rock containing rare earths.
Materials Shares

This major update just sent Lynas shares higher today

Lynas shares rise after announcing a key rare earth production milestone.

Read more »

A man looking at his laptop and thinking.
Materials Shares

Core Lithium shares tumble after $120m capital raising for Finniss restart

It won't be long until the company is producing lithium again.

Read more »

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

Top broker names 3 ASX rare earths stocks to buy

Let's see which stocks could benefit from strong prices.

Read more »

Business people discussing project on digital tablet.
Materials Shares

What does a change of CEO mean for the BHP share price?

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price is rising on Wednesday. In afternoon trade, the mining giant's shares are…

Read more »

A happy construction worker or miner holds a fistful of Australian dollar notes.
Materials Shares

$10,000 invested in BHP shares 5 years ago is now worth…

Was it a good idea to buy the mining giant's shares five years ago?

Read more »

A white EV car and an electric vehicle pump with green highlighted swirls representing ASX lithium shares
Materials Shares

This ASX lithium stock is slipping, but brokers see 135%+ gains

Analysts remain highly bullish on the long-term outlook.

Read more »

a mine worker holds his phone in one hand and a tablet in the other as he stands in front of heavy machinery at a mine site.
Materials Shares

Rio Tinto shares charge higher on big copper news

The Resolution Copper project was given a major boost today.

Read more »

Stock market crash concept of young man screaming at laptop on the sofa.
Materials Shares

Why the IperionX share price just crashed 22% today

Investors dump IperionX shares after its recent results spark heavy selling.

Read more »