Walgreens Boots Alliance Stock (NASDAQ: WBA)

Dernières nouvelles pour Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:WBA) Stock

Walgreens Boots Alliance

Walgreens Boots Alliance is one of the largest retail pharmacy chains in the US, with over 8,500 locations. Nearly three quarters of Americans live within five miles of a Walgreens location. Roughly two thirds of revenue is generated from prescription drug sales; Walgreens makes up 20% of total prescription revenue in the US. Walgreens also generates sales from retail products (general wellness consumables and its own branded merchandise), European drug wholesale, and healthcare. With more locations incorporating additional services like Health Corner and Village Medical, Walgreens creates an omnichannel experience for patients and positions itself as a one-stop healthcare provider.

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. - Common Stock

Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc

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WALGREEN BOOTS ALLIANCE ORD

On Tuesday, Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:&nbsp;WBA) reported fourth-quarter fiscal year 2024 sales of $37.55 billion, up 6% year over year (+6.1% on constant currency), beating the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus of $35.76 billion</a>, reflecting sales growth across all segments.
Adjusted operating income&nbsp;was&nbsp;$424 million, a decrease of 37.7% on a constant currency basis, reflecting softer&nbsp;U.S.&nbsp;retail and pharmacy performance, lapping the reversal of incentive accruals and prior year sale-leaseback gains, partly offset by cost savings initiatives and improved profitability in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/b41327253/walgreens-boots-alliance-reports-fiscal-year-2024-earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Healthcare&nbsp;segment</a>.
Adjusted EPS was&nbsp;$0.39, down 40.8%, beating the consensus of $0.36, according to data from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40881893/walgreens-agrees-to-106-8m-settlement-over-alleged-false-billing-claims" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walgreens Agrees To $106.8M Settlement Over Alleged False Billing Claims</a>.
The U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment sales reached $29.5 billion, up 6.5%. Comparable sales increased 8.3%.
Pharmacy sales increased by 9.6%, and comparable pharmacy sales increased by 11.7% in the fourth quarter, driven by higher brand inflation and mix impacts.
Comparable prescriptions increased by 2.5%, and prescriptions excluding immunizations increased by 2.6% compared to a year ago.
Total prescriptions filled in the quarter, including immunizations, increased 1.7% to 302 million.
Retail sales decreased 3.5%, and comparable retail sales decreased 1.7% compared with the year-ago quarter, reflecting a challenging retail environment and continued channel shift.
The U.S. Healthcare&nbsp;segment&#8217;s sales were&nbsp;$2.1 billion, up 7.1% year over year. VillageMD&nbsp;sales increased by 7.2%, reflecting additional risk lives and fee-for-service revenue. Shields grew 27.8%, driven by growth within existing partnerships.
During the earnings release, Walgreens Boots Alliance announced a footprint optimization program targeting approximately 1,200 closures&nbsp;over the next three years, including approximately 500 closures in fiscal 2025, which will be immediately accretive to adjusted EPS and free cash flow.
The company said it exceeded fiscal 2024 targets for&nbsp;$1 billion&nbsp;in cost savings,&nbsp;a $600 million&nbsp;reduction in capital expenditures, and&nbsp;$500 million&nbsp;in working capital initiatives.
Achieved fiscal 2024 net debt reduction of&nbsp;$1.9 billion&nbsp;and lease obligations reduction of&nbsp;$1.2 billion.
In its third-quarter release, Walgreen Boots Alliance announced the plan to close an undisclosed number of its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39555584/walgreens-boots-alliance-expected-to-close-25-of-stores-but-financial-benefit-visib" rel="noreferrer noopener">roughly 8,700 stores</a>.
Guidance:&nbsp;Walgreens Boots Alliance expects fiscal year 2025 adjusted EPS of $1.40-$1.80 versus consensus of $1.75 and sales of $147 billion-$151 billion versus consensus of $147.28 billion.
The company expects growth in&nbsp;U.S. Healthcare&nbsp;and International more than offset by a decline in&nbsp;U.S. Retail Pharmacy and lower contributions from sale-leaseback and Cencora earnings.
Price Action: WBA stock is up 11.60% at $10.04 at last check Tuesday.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/10/41329767/johnson-johnsons-q3-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-on-strong-cancer-drug-sales-revises-annual-outl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s Q3 Earnings: Revenue And EPS Beat On Strong Cancer Drug Sales, Revises Annual Outlook To Reflect V-Wave Acquisition</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by refrina via Shutterstock.com

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Walgreens Boots Alliance Outlines Three-Cost Saving Strategy As Q4 Earnings Beat Street Estimates

Walgreens CEO Says Company Is Re-evaluating Its Merchandising Strategy In Retail To Offer New Products, Including Its Own Brands

CORRECTION: WBA Reported Results For Q4

WIIM

Walgreens Boots Alliance shares are trading higher following a Q4 earnings beat.

<figure class="table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sales</td>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">$147.0 to $151.0 Billion</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Adjusted operating income (Non-GAAP measure)</td>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">$1.6 to $2.0 Billion</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Adjusted EPS (Non-GAAP measure)</td>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="1" rowspan="1">$1.40 to $1.80</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>

Walgreens Boots Alliance Expects FY2025 Adjusted EPS Of $1.40-$1.80 Versus Consensus Of $1.75 And Sales Of $147B-$151B Versus Consensus Of $147.28B

Walgreens Boots Alliance Has Announced Footprint Optimization Program Targeting Approximately 1,200 Closures Over The Next Three Years, Including Approximately 500 Closures In Fiscal 2025, Which Will Be Immediately Accretive To Adjusted EPS And Free Cash Flow

Walgreens Boots Alliance Q4 2024 Adj. EPS $0.39 Beats $0.36 Estimate, Sales $37.547B Beat $35.755B Estimate

Wall Street mood has become circumspect as traders gear up to receive a slew of earnings reports this week <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41319060/s-p-500-extends-record-highs-dow-breaks-43-000-ahead-of-pivotal-earnings-week-bitco">amid the market&#8217;s record run.</a> The Nasdaq Composite has been a laggard among the major averages and it remains to be seen if the early sentiment reverses and tech stocks could finish the session with a flourish. 
A spate of earnings due ahead of the market may set the tone for the day&#8217;s trading. Traders may also focus on any potential preannouncements, the results of a regional manufacturing survey and a couple of speeches by Federal Reserve officials. Energy stocks could lose their verve amid the sharp retreat in energy prices amid waning demand and supply concerns. Bond yields continue to hold firm. 
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<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Futures</td>
<td>Performance (+/-)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>-0.12%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>-0.05%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow</td>
<td>-0.06%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>R2K</td>
<td>-0.07%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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In premarket trading on Tuesday,&nbsp;the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) edged down 0.06% to $583.99 and the&nbsp;Invesco QQQ ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) moved down 0.15% to $496.77, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Cues From Last Session:
Optimism concerning tech earnings season abounded on Wall Street on Monday as the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq Composite Indices opened solidly higher and moved roughly sideways before closing higher. The 30-stock Dow opened lower as Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) served as a drag, but the blue-chip average recouped its losses and moved higher in late-morning trading and stayed in the green for the remainder of the session.
As a result, the Dow and S&amp;P 500 set fresh closing and intraday highs, with the former topping 43,000 for the first time ever. The Nasdaq Composite is just under seven points from its all-time high of 18,509.34.
All but one of the S&amp;P 500 sector indices closed higher for the day, with energy stocks notching a marginal loss. IT and utility stocks were the biggest gainers of the session, led by Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>). The artificial intelligence stalwart ended the session at a record high.
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<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Index</td>
<td> Performance (+/)</td>
<td>Value</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq Composite</td>
<td>+0.87%</td>
<td>18,502.69</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500 Index</td>
<td>+0.77%</td>
<td>5,859.85</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Industrials</td>
<td>+0.47%</td>
<td>43,065.22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>+0.64%</td>
<td>2,248.64</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Insights From Analysts:
Cyclical stocks are poised for relative outperformance, thanks to the recent data that reinforces the resilience of the economy, according to Morgan Stanley analysts. But positioning in cyclicals remains light, said the firm&#8217;s Chief U.S. Equity Strategist Mike Wilson. 
&#8220;This creates opportunity in a sector that we upgraded to overweight last week given rebounding capital markets activity, a better loan growth environment in 2025, an acceleration in buybacks post Basel Endgame re-proposal, and attractive relative valuation,&#8221; he said.
The focus now shifts to the general election, Wilson said. The three high-level dynamics which are still important, according to the strategist, are:
<ul>
<li> business cycle remains more important than the election outcome.</li>
<li>on average, volatility picks up in September of election years and stays elevated through October before decelerating in November.</li>
<li>history is supportive of a quality bias in election years.</li>
</ul>
WisdomTree Senior Economist and Wharton Professor Emeritus Jeremy Siegel also expressed a preference for quality names. &#8220;Looking ahead, I see opportunity if the current resilience continues,&#8221; the economist said.
&#8220;Stocks are not cheap by historical standards, but with the fear gauge elevated and investors still largely hedging their bets, we could see a sharp move higher if sentiment turns more positive,&#8221; he added.
Siegel said quality remains the key for investors. Small caps are catching up a bit but the fundamentals of large-cap tech companies continue to drive performance, he said. &#8220;With inflation moderating and the Fed's easing cycle beginning, sectors like financials and industrials could benefit from a more favorable economic backdrop,&#8221; he added.
Early reports from banks have been solid and could set the tone for broader market gains, the economist said.
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-futures-trading-software">Best Futures Trading Software</a>
Upcoming Economic Data
<ul>
<li>The New York Federal Reserve is scheduled to release the results of its regional manufacturing survey at 8:30 a.m. EDT. Economists, on average, expect the index to decline sharply from 11.5 in September to 3 in October.</li>
<li>San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly will speak at 11:30 a.m. EDT.</li>
<li>The Treasury will auction three- and six-month bills at 11:30 a.m. EDT.</li>
<li>Fed Governor Adriana Kugler is scheduled to make a public appearance at 1 p.m. EDT.</li>
</ul>
Stocks In Focus:
<ul>
<li>Wolfspeed, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WOLF#NYSE">WOLF</a>) climbed nearly 10% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket">in premarket trading </a>after the company announced up to $750 million in proposed direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act and an additional $$750 million of new financing from a consortium led by Apollo Global. </li>
<li>Trump Media &amp; Technology Group Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DJT#NASDAQ">DJT</a>) climbed over 10% as the stock reacted to Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump&#8217;s improving fortunes. </li>
<li>Chipmakers Nvidia, Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>) and Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) and AI server maker Super Micro Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) were all trading lower, following their recent gains.</li>
<li>Energy stocks tumbled in reaction to the 4%+ pullback in oil prices.</li>
<li>Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHW#NYSE">SCHW</a>), Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>), PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PNC#NYSE">PNC</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) and Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) are among the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings">companies reporting their quarterly results ahead of the market opens.</a></li>
<li>Those reporting after the close include J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBHT#NASDAQ">JBHT</a>) and United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>).</li>
</ul>
Commodities, Bonds And Global Equity Markets:
Crude oil plunged over 4.50% in the early New York session after reports said Israel won&#8217;t launch an attack on Iran&#8217;s crude oil infrastructure, and gold futures were modestly higher. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) firmed up over the past 24 hours and traded above the $65.5K level. The benchmark 10-year old Treasury note yield weakened slightly to 4.065%.
In Asia, Hong Kong and Chinese markets retreated sharply as a string of recent weak data weighed down on sentiment, even as traders looked ahead to further stimulatory measures from the government and the central bank. Most other major markets advanced, taking cues from the positive performance of Wall Street stocks overnight.
European stocks traded mostly lower in early hours amid falling oil prices. 
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41324660/jim-cramer-says-earnings-season-will-fuel-markets-record-run-but-warns-of-this-horr">Jim Cramer Says Earnings Season Will Fuel Market&#8217;s Record Run, But Warns Of This &#8216;Horrendous&#8217; Headwind That Could Apply Brakes To Rally</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

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Wall Street On Edge As Nasdaq Nears Record High, Oil Prices Plummet: Strategist Says There's Opportunity If Resilience Continues

The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41319060/s-p-500-extends-record-highs-dow-breaks-43-000-ahead-of-pivotal-earnings-week-bitco">S&amp;P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average are perched at record highs</a>, while the Nasdaq Composite is on the cusp of joining its major counterparts in record territory. Unfazed by the stretched valuations, CNBC Mad Money host Jim Cramer on Monday raised the specter of further upside. 
Earnings Boost: The market isn&#8217;t overbought and therefore there is room to run, Cramer said in a post. The stock picker apparently sees earnings as one of the biggest catalysts that can propel stocks higher.
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<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Earnings tomorrow and the market isn&#39;t overbought so there is room to run but the pesky bonds are back open tomorrow and they have been horrendous
&mdash; Jim Cramer (@jimcramer) <a href="https://twitter.com/jimcramer/status/1845938169478361260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
 The earnings flow resumes after a pause on Monday owing to the Columbus Day holiday. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-small-cap-stocks">Best Small Cap Stocks</a>
JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) kickstarted the big bank earnings on Friday with a splash. The shares ended the session up over 4% after the third-quarter results came in ahead of expectations. JPMorgan&#8217;s peer Wells Fargo &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>) also reported encouraging earnings.
More earnings will follow on Tuesday and notable among those reporting are:
<ul>
<li>Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>)</li>
<li>Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHW#NYSE">SCHW</a>)</li>
<li>Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>)</li>
<li>Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>)</li>
<li>PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PNC#NYSE">PNC</a>)</li>
<li>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>)</li>
<li>UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>)</li>
<li>Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>)</li>
<li>J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBHT#NASDAQ">JBHT</a>)</li>
<li>United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>)</li>
</ul>
Data compiled by FactSet shows cumulative earnings of S&amp;P 500 companies rising by 4.1% in the third quarter. Although a slowdown from the 11.2% growth in the second quarter, the profit growth streak will likely extend to five quarters.
Downside Risk: Cramer termed the bond market performance &#8220;horrendous,&#8221; potentially upsetting the equity market&#8217;s rhythm. &#8220;But the pesky bonds are back open tomorrow and they have been horrendous,&#8221; he said.
The bond market was closed on Monday and will reopen on Tuesday.
Bond yields have begun to tick higher, especially after the September non-farm payrolls report surprised to the upside. The upward move solidified after the consumer price inflation for September came in more than expected. 
The 10-year bond yield dipped under 3.6% in mid-September but has rallied above 4% since then, as investors unwind some of their aggressive rate-cut bets.
In an interview with CNBC, Fund Strat Head of Research Tom Lee said the unseasonable market trend showed macro data has become less important. A lot of cash that has remained on the sidelines is flowing back to the market, he said, adding that the economy has remained resilient as opposed to expectations for a recession.
When asked about the days when the market came back up from steep losses in the futures market and finished solidly higher, the strategist said skeptical investors, wary of a potential recession that never materialized, have remained under-invested in stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/10/41300013/jp-morgan-and-wells-fargo-report-better-than-expected-q3-results-that-reflect-resilient-u-s-consumer">Earnings have also been resilient, </a>he added.
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>), an exchange-traded fund that tracks the S&amp;P 500 Index, rose 0.82% to $584.32 on Monday, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro data, </a>marking a record closing high. 
Image via Flickr

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Jim Cramer Says Earnings Season Will Fuel Market's Record Run, But Warns Of This 'Horrendous' Headwind That Could Apply Brakes To Rally

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) will release earnings results for its fourth quarter, before the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WBA/earnings">opening bell on Tuesday, Oct. 15.</a>
Analysts expect the Deerfield, Illinois-based company to report quarterly earnings at 36 cents per share, down from 67 cents per share in the year-ago period. Walgreens projects to report revenue of $35.75 billion for the quarter, compared to $35.42 billion a year earlier, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Walgreens shares fell 2.3% to close at $9.00 on Monday.
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let's have a look at how Benzinga's most-accurate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TJX/analyst-ratings">analysts have rated the company</a> in the recent period.
<ul>
<li>Morgan Stanley analyst Erin Wright maintained an Underweight rating and cut the price target from $9 to $7 on Oct. 11. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 76%.</li>
<li>Truist Securities analyst David Macdonald maintained a Hold rating and cut the price target from $13 to $10 on Oct. 7. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 74%.</li>
<li>UBS analyst Kevin Caliendo maintained a Neutral rating and slashed the price target from $17 to $12 on July 3. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 72%.</li>
<li>RBC Capital analyst Ben Hendrix maintained a Sector Perform rating and cut the price target from $22 to $13 on July 2. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Deutsche Bank analyst Scott George Hill maintained a Hold rating and lowered the price target from $23 to $22 on April 3. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%.</li>
</ul>
Considering buying WBA stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="485" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15035732/image-105-1024x485.png" alt="" class="wp-image-595414" style="width:604px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15035732/image-105-1024x485.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15035732/image-105-300x142.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15035732/image-105-768x364.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15035732/image-105.png 1367w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Read This Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/10/41320317/wall-streets-most-accurate-analysts-weigh-in-on-3-tech-and-telecom-stocks-with-over-4-dividend-yield">Wall Street&#8217;s Most Accurate Analysts Weigh In On 3 Tech And Telecom Stocks With Over 4% Dividend Yields</a></li>
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Analyst Ratings

Walgreens Gears Up For Q4 Print; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts

With U.S. stock futures trading mixed this morning on Tuesday, some of the stocks that may grab investor focus today are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Wall Street expects Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>) to report quarterly earnings at $1.31 per share on revenue of $19.84 million before the opening bell, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>. Citigroup shares gained 0.1% to $66.10 in after-hours trading.</li>
<li>Analysts are expecting Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) to post quarterly earnings at 77 cents per share on revenue of $25.29 billion. The company will release earnings before the markets open. Bank of America shares gained 0.4% to $42.06 in after-hours trading.</li>
<li>Before the markets open, The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) is projected to report quarterly earnings at $7.03 per share on revenue of $11.87 billion. Goldman Sachs shares gained 0.2% to $523.90 in after-hours trading.</li>
</ul>
Check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a>
<ul>
<li>Analysts expect Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) to report quarterly earnings at 36 cents per share on revenue of $35.76 billion before the opening bell. Walgreens shares fell 2.3% to close at $9.00 on Monday.</li>
<li>UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) is projected to post quarterly earnings at $7.00 per share on revenue of $99.28 billion before the opening bell. UnitedHealth shares gained 0.3% to $607.20 in after-hours trading.</li>
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Citigroup, Bank of America And 3 Stocks To Watch Heading Into Tuesday

Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) is preparing to release its quarterly earnings on Tuesday, 2024-10-15. Here's a brief overview of what investors should keep in mind before the announcement.
Analysts expect Walgreens Boots Alliance to report an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.36.
The announcement from Walgreens Boots Alliance is eagerly anticipated, with investors seeking news of surpassing estimates and favorable guidance for the next quarter.
It's worth noting for new investors that guidance can be a key determinant of stock price movements.
<h3>Overview of Past Earnings</h3>
The company's EPS missed by $0.08 in the last quarter, leading to a 0.78% drop in the share price on the following day.
Here's a look at Walgreens Boots Alliance's past performance and the resulting price change:

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Quarter</th>
<th>Q3 2024</th>
<th>Q2 2024</th>
<th>Q1 2024</th>
<th>Q4 2023</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>EPS Estimate</td>
<td>0.71</td>
<td>0.82</td>
<td>0.61</td>
<td>0.69</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EPS Actual</td>
<td>0.63</td>
<td>1.20</td>
<td>0.66</td>
<td>0.67</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Price Change %</td>
<td>-1.0%</td>
<td>3.0%</td>
<td>3.0%</td>
<td>-4.0%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728914430_0.png" alt="eps graph" />
<h3>Performance of Walgreens Boots Alliance Shares</h3>
Shares of Walgreens Boots Alliance were trading at $9.21 as of October 11. Over the last 52-week period, shares are down 60.11%. Given that these returns are generally negative, long-term shareholders are likely a little upset going into this earnings release. 
<h3>Analysts' Take on Walgreens Boots Alliance</h3>
For investors, grasping market sentiments and expectations in the industry is vital. This analysis explores the latest insights regarding Walgreens Boots Alliance.
The consensus rating for Walgreens Boots Alliance is Underperform, derived from 6 analyst ratings. An average one-year price target of $10.42 implies a potential 13.14% upside.
<h3>Comparing Ratings with Competitors</h3>
The analysis below examines the analyst ratings and average 1-year price targets of and Walgreens Boots Alliance, three significant industry players, providing valuable insights into their relative performance expectations and market positioning.
<h3>Peer Analysis Summary</h3>
The peer analysis summary outlines pivotal metrics for and Walgreens Boots Alliance, demonstrating their respective standings within the industry and offering valuable insights into their market positions and comparative performance.

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>Consensus</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
<th>Gross Profit</th>
<th>Return on Equity</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Walgreens Boots Alliance</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>2.64%</td>
<td>$6.46B</td>
<td>2.54%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Key Takeaway:
Walgreens Boots Alliance ranks at the bottom for Consensus rating among its peers. It is in the middle for Revenue Growth. The company is at the bottom for Gross Profit. In terms of Return on Equity, Walgreens Boots Alliance is at the bottom compared to its peers.
<h3>Delving into Walgreens Boots Alliance's Background</h3>
Walgreens Boots Alliance is one of the largest retail pharmacy chains in the US, with over 8,500 locations. Nearly three quarters of Americans live within five miles of a Walgreens location. Roughly two thirds of revenue is generated from prescription drug sales; Walgreens makes up 20% of total prescription revenue in the US. Walgreens also generates sales from retail products (general wellness consumables and its own branded merchandise), European drug wholesale, and healthcare. With more locations incorporating additional services like Health Corner and Village Medical, Walgreens creates an omnichannel experience for patients and positions itself as a one-stop healthcare provider.
<h3>Breaking Down Walgreens Boots Alliance's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization: Boasting an elevated market capitalization, the company surpasses industry averages. This signals substantial size and strong market recognition.
Revenue Growth: Walgreens Boots Alliance's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 31 May, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 2.64%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Consumer Staples sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Walgreens Boots Alliance's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 0.95%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Walgreens Boots Alliance's ROE lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maximizing returns on equity capital. With an ROE of 2.54%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Walgreens Boots Alliance's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 0.41%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: With a high debt-to-equity ratio of 2.4, Walgreens Boots Alliance faces challenges in effectively managing its debt levels, indicating potential financial strain.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WBA/earnings">To track all earnings releases for Walgreens Boots Alliance visit their earnings calendar on our site.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Earnings Preview For Walgreens Boots Alliance

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
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<li>Wells Fargo raised Affirm Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AFRM#NASDAQ">AFRM</a>) price target from $40 to $52. Wells Fargo analyst Andrew Bauch upgraded the stock from Equal-Weight to Overweight. Affirm shares fell 2.9% to close at $42.01 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AFRM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Morgan Stanley raised the price target for Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNK#NYSE">CNK</a>) from $29 to $35. Morgan Stanley analyst Benjamin Swinburne maintained an Overweight rating. Cinemark shares gained 4.7% to close at $28.63 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CNK/analyst-ratings">See </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSFT/analyst-ratings">how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Mizuho cut the price target for Mobileye Global Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MBLY#NASDAQ">MBLY</a>) from $30 to $13. Mizuho analyst Vijay Rakesh downgraded the stock from Outperform to Neutral. Mobileye shares gained 1.8% to close at $12.29 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MBLY/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley raised Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) price target from $390 to $421. Morgan Stanley analyst Hamza Fodderwala maintained an Overweight rating. Palo Alto shares gained 1.8% to close at $369.40 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PANW/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>HC Wainwright &amp; Co. cut Valneva SE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VALN#NASDAQ">VALN</a>) price target from $23 to $20. HC Wainwright &amp; Co. analyst Edward White maintained a Buy rating. Valneva shares fell 1% to close at $5.69 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VALN/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Baird raised eBay Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EBAY#NASDAQ">EBAY</a>) price target from $62 to $70. Baird analyst Colin Sebastian maintained an Outperform rating. eBay shares fell 1.3% to close at $66.05 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EBAY/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>B of A Securities raised the price target for Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMI#NYSE">KMI</a>) from $23 to $27. B of A Securities analyst Neel Mitra upgraded the stock from Neutral to Buy. Kinder Morgan rose 1% to close at $23.72 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/KMI/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Piper Sandler raised Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>) price target from $56 to $59. Piper Sandler analyst Brian Mullan maintained a Neutral rating. Chipotle shares gained 0.7% to close at $58.33 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CMG/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>JP Morgan raised the price target for Ferrari N.V. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RACE#NYSE">RACE</a>) from $385 to $525. JP Morgan analyst Ryan Brinkman upgraded the stock from Neutral to Overweight. Ferrari shares fell 0.7% to close at $453.27 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RACE/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley cut Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) price target from $9 to $7. Morgan Stanley analyst Erin Wright maintained an Underweight rating. Walgreens shares rose 1.4% to close at $9.03 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WBA/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
</ul>
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Morgan Stanley analyst Erin Wright maintains Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) with a Underweight and lowers the price target from $9 to $7.

Morgan Stanley Maintains Underweight on Walgreens Boots Alliance, Lowers Price Target to $7

Barclays upgraded CVS Health Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>) on higher Pharmacy &amp; Consumer Wellness (PCW) estimates as headwinds are offset by share gains, with further upside <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/23/12/36086291/drugstore-chain-cvs-healths-move-to-simplify-drug-pricing-gives-peek-into-fy24-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential from CostVantage</a>.
Despite macroeconomic pressures impacting the retail pharmacy sector, the analyst writes that CVS has shown resilience thanks to its diversified business model.
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This has allowed the company to mitigate some of these challenges and capitalize on market share gains from less financially stable competitors.
For 2025, Barclays estimates market forecasts include expectations of 110 basis points in Medicare margin expansion, which is on the lower end of CVS&#8217;s target range of 100-200 bps.
Barclays has upgraded CVS from Equal Weight to Overweight, with a price target of $82, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVS/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">up from $63</a>.
By 2026, projections show about 90 bps of margin improvement. Collectively, this suggests a cumulative recovery of 200 bps over two years, placing consensus Medicare margins at approximately -2.0%, which may underestimate the speed of CVS&#8217;s recovery.
CVS is well-positioned to continue gaining market share in the retail pharmacy space, a trend that Barclays estimates could accelerate in 2025 as Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) moves forward with plans to close over 1,000 of the roughly 2,000 unprofitable stores identified for closure.
While the full impact of Walgreens&#8217; store closures will depend on the timing—spread over the next three years—the analyst expects a significant number to close within the first year due to their unprofitability.
CVS has consistently increased its pharmacy market share since the first quarter of 2020, holding 27.2% as of the first quarter of 2024.
Barclays estimates CVS has been gaining approximately 5-10 bps of market share each quarter, with cumulative gains likely exceeding 150 bps since before the pandemic.
Price Action: CVS stock is up 1.66% at $67.07 at last check Thursday.
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Providing a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish, 5 analysts have published ratings on Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) in the last three months.
The following table summarizes their recent ratings, shedding light on the changing sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts' evaluations of 12-month price targets offer additional insights, showcasing an average target of $11.1, with a high estimate of $16.00 and a low estimate of $7.00. Experiencing a 27.92% decline, the current average is now lower than the previous average price target of $15.40. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728331270_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Decoding Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Look</h2>
The standing of Walgreens Boots Alliance among financial experts becomes clear with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>David Macdonald</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charles Ryhee</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$16.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Allen Lutz</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$7.50</td>
<td>$11.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lisa Gill</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steve Valiquette</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
<td>$7.00</td>
<td>$11.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Walgreens Boots Alliance. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Walgreens Boots Alliance compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Walgreens Boots Alliance's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of Walgreens Boots Alliance's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WBA/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Walgreens Boots Alliance analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Walgreens Boots Alliance</h2>
Walgreens Boots Alliance is one of the largest retail pharmacy chains in the US, with over 8,500 locations. Nearly three quarters of Americans live within five miles of a Walgreens location. Roughly two thirds of revenue is generated from prescription drug sales; Walgreens makes up 20% of total prescription revenue in the US. Walgreens also generates sales from retail products (general wellness consumables and its own branded merchandise), European drug wholesale, and healthcare. With more locations incorporating additional services like Health Corner and Village Medical, Walgreens creates an omnichannel experience for patients and positions itself as a one-stop healthcare provider.
<h3>Walgreens Boots Alliance's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization reflects a smaller scale relative to peers. This could be attributed to factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Revenue Growth: Walgreens Boots Alliance's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 31 May, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 2.64%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Consumer Staples sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in achieving strong profitability. With a net margin of 0.95%, the company may need to address challenges in effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Walgreens Boots Alliance's ROE falls below industry averages, indicating challenges in efficiently using equity capital. With an ROE of 2.54%, the company may face hurdles in generating optimal returns for shareholders.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 0.41%, the company may need to address challenges in generating satisfactory returns from its assets.
Debt Management: Walgreens Boots Alliance's debt-to-equity ratio is notably higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 2.4, the company relies more heavily on borrowed funds, indicating a higher level of financial risk.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
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Navigating 5 Analyst Ratings For Walgreens Boots Alliance

Truist Securities analyst David Macdonald maintains Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>) with a Hold and lowers the price target from $13 to $10.

Truist Securities Maintains Hold on Walgreens Boots Alliance, Lowers Price Target to $10

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout</a>.
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">by analyst accuracy</a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the consumer staples sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 11.49%</li>
<li>UBS analyst Kevin Caliendo maintained a Neutral rating and cut the price target from $17 to $12 on July 3. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 75%.</li>
<li>RBC Capital analyst Ben Hendrix maintained a Sector Perform rating and slashed the price target from $22 to $13 on July 2. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 73%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Sept. 13, Walgreens Boots Alliance agreed to pay $106.8 million to settle allegations that it submitted false claims to government healthcare programs, violating the False Claims Act and state regulations.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100324&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">latest WBA news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100324&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="900" height="842" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072919/image-11.png" alt="" class="wp-image-578386" style="width:653px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072919/image-11.png 900w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072919/image-11-300x281.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072919/image-11-768x719.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.66%</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Chris Carey maintained an Equal-Weight rating and raised the price target from $34 to $35 on Aug. 1. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%.</li>
<li>B of A Securities analyst Bryan Spillane maintained a Buy rating and cut the price target from $42 to $38 on July 10. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 64%</li>
<li>Recent News: On July 31, Kraft Heinz reported better-than-expected second-quarter adjusted EPS results.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100324&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"> latest KHC news</a>.</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100324&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="822" height="797" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072944/image-2-5.png" alt="" class="wp-image-578387" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072944/image-2-5.png 822w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072944/image-2-5-300x291.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03072944/image-2-5-768x745.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 822px) 100vw, 822px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PM#NYSE">PM</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.52%</li>
<li>Goldman Sachs analyst Bonnie Herzog maintained a Buy rating and raised the price target from $126 to $140 on Sept. 26. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 71%.</li>
<li>Barclays analyst Gaurav Jain maintained an Overweight rating and increased the price target from $130 to $145 on Sept. 9. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 66%.</li>
<li>Recent News: Philip Morris International is expected to report results for its fiscal third quarter on Oct. 22.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100324&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">trend in PM stock</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100324&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="908" height="847" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03073026/image-12.png" alt="" class="wp-image-578388" style="width:608px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03073026/image-12.png 908w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03073026/image-12-300x280.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03073026/image-12-768x716.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 908px) 100vw, 908px" /></a></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="How to Find Dividend Stocks: Scan, Analyze, and Capture with Benzinga Pro" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pVF0O2lsEH4?start=1&#038;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
Read More: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/10/41156151/wall-streets-most-accurate-analysts-give-their-take-on-3-consumer-stocks-delivering-high-dividend-yi">Wall Street&#8217;s Most Accurate Analysts Give Their Take On 3 Consumer Stocks Delivering High-Dividend Yields</a></li>
</ul>

Long Ideas

Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts Spotlight On 3 Defensive Stocks Delivering High-Dividend Yields

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with WBA, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 9 uncommon options trades for Walgreens Boots Alliance.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 66% bullish and 33%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 3 are puts, for a total amount of $317,948, and 6 are calls, for a total amount of $251,974.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $7.5 to $12.5 for Walgreens Boots Alliance over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for Walgreens Boots Alliance options trades today is 8118.0 with a total volume of 10,303.00.
In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for Walgreens Boots Alliance's big money trades within a strike price range of $7.5 to $12.5 over the last 30 days.
<h3>Walgreens Boots Alliance Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727454768_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WBA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$12.50</td>
<td>$180.0K</td>
<td>554</td>
<td>506</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WBA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$2.33</td>
<td>$2.32</td>
<td>$2.33</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$87.6K</td>
<td>14.5K</td>
<td>886</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WBA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$2.93</td>
<td>$2.9</td>
<td>$2.93</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$58.7K</td>
<td>280</td>
<td>307</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WBA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$0.62</td>
<td>$0.6</td>
<td>$0.62</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$55.4K</td>
<td>4.3K</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WBA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$2.35</td>
<td>$2.31</td>
<td>$2.35</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$50.2K</td>
<td>14.5K</td>
<td>240</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Walgreens Boots Alliance</h3>
Walgreens Boots Alliance is one of the largest retail pharmacy chains in the US, with over 8,500 locations. Nearly three quarters of Americans live within five miles of a Walgreens location. Roughly two thirds of revenue is generated from prescription drug sales; Walgreens makes up 20% of total prescription revenue in the US. Walgreens also generates sales from retail products (general wellness consumables and its own branded merchandise), European drug wholesale, and healthcare. With more locations incorporating additional services like Health Corner and Village Medical, Walgreens creates an omnichannel experience for patients and positions itself as a one-stop healthcare provider.
In light of the recent options history for Walgreens Boots Alliance, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Current Position of Walgreens Boots Alliance</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 14,363,721, the WBA's price is up by 1.41%, now at $8.64. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 18 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Walgreens Boots Alliance</h3>
A total of 3 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $12.833333333333334.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from TD Cowen keeps a Buy rating on Walgreens Boots Alliance with a target price of $16. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from JP Morgan keeps a Overweight rating on Walgreens Boots Alliance with a target price of $15. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from B of A Securities keeps a Underperform rating on Walgreens Boots Alliance with a target price of $7. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Walgreens Boots Alliance with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

What the Options Market Tells Us About Walgreens Boots Alliance

Here's the major earnings before the open tomorrow

Bull run props up Q3 earnings season, but is the bar too low?

Today, several major companies are expected to report earnings: Bank of America (BAC), Citigroup (C), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), Telefonaktiebolaget ...

Options Volatility and Implied Earnings Moves Today, October 15, 2024

Walgreens Boots Alliance Non-GAAP EPS of $0.39 beats by $0.03, revenue of $37.5B beats by $1.95B

Walgreens rallies after topping earnings estimates, outlining a plan to close 1,200 U.S. stores

Earnings Snapshot: WBA surpasses FQ4 expectations, projects FY2025 sales above onsensus

Earnings Snapshot: WBA surpasses FQ4 expectations, projects FY2025 sales above consensus

Walgreens Boots Alliance in charts: 6.5% Y/Y growth in the U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment drives FQ4 performance

An announcement from Walgreens Boots Alliance ( ($WBA) ) is now available. Walgreens Boots Alliance reported a significant financial downturn for f...

Walgreens Boots Alliance Faces $8.6 Billion Loss

Biggest stock movers Tuesday: WBA, ERIC, DJT, and more

ERIC

ETSY

NFLX

Press Releases

Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP, a Leading Securities Fraud Law Firm, Announces the Filing of a Securities Class Action on Behalf of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) Investors

SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Pomerantz Law Firm Announces the Filing of a Class Action Against Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. - WBA

Walgreens Announces New Student Loan 401(k) Match Program

Deadline Reminder: Law Offices of Howard G. Smith Reminds Investors of Looming Deadline in the Class Action Lawsuit Against Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA)

Hanley Investment Group Arranges Sale of Single-Tenant Walgreens at Kroger-Anchored Shopping Center in Houston Metro

Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP Reminds Investors of Looming Deadline in the Class Action Lawsuit Against Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA)

DEADLINE ALERT for NFE, WBA, DPZ, and BMBL: The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz Reminds Investors of Class Actions on Behalf of Shareholders

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