Analysts upwardly revised their ratings and price targets on GOOGL, MSFT, and SWKS stocks
Analysts are weighing in on tech stocks Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), and Skyworks Solutions Inc (NASDAQ:SWKS). Here's a quick roundup of today's bullish brokerage notes on shares of GOOGL, MSFT, and SWKS.
GOOGL Stock Aims at Post-Earnings Highs
GOOGL stock is golden ahead of the bell, after the company reported better-than-expected first-quarter earnings and revenue on strong ad sales. The news has been met with applause on Wall Street, where more than 10 analysts have raised their price targets on the shares -- including Jefferies, to $1,200 from $1,000, the most aggressive outlook of all. After hitting a record peak of $893.38 yesterday and settling at $891.44, Alphabet Inc is set to topple that milestone, up 3.9% in electronic trading. This should be a boon to recent call buyers at the International Securities Exchange (ISE), Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE), and NASDAQ OMX PHLX (PHLX). Specifically, GOOGL stock has racked up a 10-day call/put volume ratio of 1.56 -- in the top quartile of its annual range.
Microsoft Cheered by Analysts After Earnings
MSFT is receiving bullish brokerage attention, even after a mixed earnings report -- with profit topping expectations, but revenue failing to meet estimates. No fewer than six analysts raised their price targets, with Wunderlich setting the highest bar, at $80 from $75. Yesterday, Microsoft Corporation shares hit an all-time best of $68.38 before ending at $68.27, up 34% year-over-year. Given the stock's technical strength, it's no surprise to see that short sellers have been in short supply. In fact, just 0.6% of MSFT's float is sold short.
Skyworks Tops Earnings Expectations, Analysts Approve
SWKS stock is pointed 1.3% lower pre-market, despite the company's earnings beat and a subsequent round of positive brokerage notes. Specifically, at least eight analysts lifted their price targets on the shares, with Oppenheimer, D.A. Davidson, and Craig-Hallum eyeing a move up to $120 -- in uncharted waters. Skyworks Solutions Inc landed at $104.20 yesterday, just a chip-shot from Monday's annual high of $105.34. The stock could benefit from short-covering, too, as 5% of its float is dedicated to these bearish bets -- hinting at a healthy supply of sideline cash available.