Scotiabank raises Meg Energy rating on growth prospects By Investing.com

Scotiabank analyst has changed the outlook for Meg Energy (MEG: CN) (OTC: MEGEF), upgrading the stock from Sector Perform rating to Sector Outperform.

The firm also set a new price target of Cdn$35.00 for the energy company. The upgrade is based on the anticipation of above-average free cash flow per share (FCFPS) growth, despite the expectation that Meg Energy will begin paying cash taxes by late 2027 or early 2028 with a West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil price at $70.

The analyst highlighted Meg Energy’s strong production growth profile and share buyback program as key drivers for the predicted robust FCFPS growth in the coming years. The firm estimates a growth rate of 9% at $70 WTI. The valuation of Meg Energy was also noted as reasonable when compared to its peers, trading at a 2025 estimated debt-adjusted cash flow (DAFCF) yield of 9%, versus its oil sands peers at 8% and small to mid-cap peers at 10%.

The report suggests that Meg Energy’s singular high-quality producing asset makes it an attractive potential acquisition target. The company’s tax pools, higher-cost debt that could be refinanced at lower rates, and operational synergies were cited as factors that offer added value to potential acquirers. Furthermore, the analyst pointed out that Meg Energy has several production growth opportunities at its Christina Lake and Surmont projects.

Meg Energy’s status as a “clean” story was emphasized, suggesting that its straightforward and focused business model could be beneficial in the event of a takeover. The analyst did not, however, indicate that a transaction was imminent.

In other recent news, Canadian oil producer MEG Energy (OTC:) reported a strong Q2 2024 performance, with a notable net debt target of $600 million set for Q3. The company reported an adjusted funds flow of CAD354 million and a free cash flow of CAD231 million. MEG Energy also announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share, payable in October, marking its evolution as a mature entity in the sector.

In addition, the firm experienced a 17% increase in bitumen production from the previous year, averaging 100,500 barrels per day. Notably, the commencement of the Trans Mountain Expansion pipeline is expected to enhance MEG’s netback and profitability.

MEG Energy also repurchased CAD68 million in shares and repaid $53 million in senior notes, reflecting its commitment to shareholder returns. Recent developments also include the appointment of Mike McAllister to MEG’s board of directors. Finally, the Oil Sands Pathways Alliance project, aimed at optimizing production capacity, is reported to be more than 75% complete in design.

InvestingPro Insights

In light of Scotiabank’s optimistic outlook for Meg Energy, real-time data and insights from InvestingPro further reinforce the company’s financial health and potential for investor returns. Meg Energy is currently trading at a P/E ratio of 12.36, which is appealing when paired with its near-term earnings growth, as highlighted by one of the InvestingPro Tips. This suggests that the company is valued reasonably in the market, aligning with the analyst’s valuation assessment.

Another InvestingPro Tip indicates that Meg Energy has been actively buying back shares, a move that can signal confidence from management in the company’s value and prospects. Share buybacks can also enhance earnings per share over time, potentially leading to increased investor returns.

From a financial standpoint, Meg Energy’s market capitalization stands at $706.3 million, with a robust gross profit margin of 47.39% over the last twelve months as of Q2 2024. The company’s liquid assets also exceed its short-term obligations, providing financial stability and flexibility. These metrics, especially the strong profit margin, complement the analyst’s view of Meg Energy’s robust free cash flow per share growth potential and its attractiveness as an acquisition target.

For investors seeking more comprehensive analysis, additional InvestingPro Tips are available, providing deeper insights into Meg Energy’s financial performance and market position.

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