Analyst Upgrades: Microsoft, Solaredge, Cisco Systems

Analysts are weighing in today on Windows parent Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), power optimizer Solaredge Technologies Inc (NASDAQ:SEDG), and IT solutions provider Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO). Here's a quick roundup of today's bullish brokerage notes on MSFT, SEDG, and CSCO.

• An upgrade to a "buy" rating at Stifel has MSFT 1% higher in electronic trading. The shares are sitting right above breakeven in 2015, closing Wednesday at $46.74, and that level has acted as technical support in recent sessions. According to data from the International Securities Exchange (ISE), Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE), and NASDAQ OMX PHLX (PHLX), Microsoft Corporation speculators have been taking a more bearish route, relative to what's usually seen. MSFT's 10-day put/call volume ratio across the aforementioned exchanges sits at 0.90, ranking in the 82nd percentile of its annual range. This means puts have been bought to open over calls at a faster-than-usual clip, and the stock could benefit if these bears decide to hit the exits. 


• SEDG is getting a lift from better-than-expected fiscal fourth-quarter numbers, with the stock 11% higher ahead of the open. Analysts are now moving in on the stock. Roth Capital, Needham, and Canaccord Genuity all raised their price targets on the shares, with the latter setting the highest mark, at $45 -- a 48.5% premium to Solaredge Technologies Inc's close yesterday at $30.30. In the options pits, call buying has ramped up on SEDG. Traders have bought to open 18.62 calls for every put during the past two weeks at the ISE, CBOE, PHLX, versus 5.30 10 days ago.


• After posting impressive fiscal fourth-quarter numbers after the bell last night, CSCO is set for a 3.6% jump out of the gate -- a little less than what was expected. In response, Cantor was one of three brokerage firms to raise its price target, setting a goal of $38. Cisco Systems, Inc. closed at $27.90 yesterday, and hasn't traded at $38 since February 2001. However, if more brokerage firms decide to wax optimistic on the equity, it could provide a boost. Eight analysts still consider CSCO a "hold" or "strong sell,"  leaving room for possible upgrades.