The Panic-Proof Portfolio (Stockchase Research)
FMC Corp
FMC-N
TOP PICK
Aug 08, 2024
Stockchase Research Editor: Michael O'Reilly
This global producer of agricultural herbicides and insecticides, recently reported a 49% increase in free cash flow. North American sales are up 24% over the year and management expects a 15% increase in earnings over the second half of 2024. It trades at 19x earnings, under 2x book and supports a 36% ROE. Its dividend is backed by a payout ratio under 20% of cash flow. We recommend setting a stop-loss at $52, looking to achieve $72 -- upside potential of 17%. Yield 3.7%
Big chemical company. He likes their exposure to lithium and they are one of the largest suppliers globally. If the US has their way, cars will be electric, which have batteries that will be supplied with lithium. Longer term play. He is looking for an entry place at around $50/$51.
Reflationary assets are benefitting and basic materials are part of this group. The chart looks like it is consolidating and he thinks there is another lift coming soon.
Chemicals and so on. Diversified, lower risk company. Could hit $100 in 12 months. If it goes below $75, exit. Looks good based on volume patterns. Yield is 1.93%. (Analysts’ price target is $90.89)
An S&P loser in 2023, down 51%. Grain prices slid as Ukraine couldn't be the bread basket given Russia's war. FMC is a great company, but agriculture failed last year. Ag could bounce back, but if it does he prefers Deere.
This global producer of agricultural herbicides and insecticides, recently reported a 49% increase in free cash flow. North American sales are up 24% over the year and management expects a 15% increase in earnings over the second half of 2024. It trades at 19x earnings, under 2x book and supports a 36% ROE. Its dividend is backed by a payout ratio under 20% of cash flow. We recommend setting a stop-loss at $52, looking to achieve $72 -- upside potential of 17%. Yield 3.7%
(Analysts’ price target is $71.94)