Exchange Operator Hit With Morgan Stanley Upgrade

The majority of analysts covering ICE are bullish

Laura McCandless

Deputy Editor

Jul 1, 2024 at 10:18 AM

Financial services name Intercontinental Exchange Inc (NYSE:ICE) received an upgrade from Morgan Stanley to "buy from "neutral" before the bell this morning. The firm holds a $167 price target on ICE, a 22% premium to Friday's close. At last glance, ICE was reversing earlier gains, down 0.08% at $136.78.

The stock finished eight of the last 10 trading sessions higher. Climbing back up toward the $140 level, home to its March 7 record high of $140.43 and a consistent line of pressure on the charts, ICE is up 6.6% year to date.

Of the 17 analysts in coverage, 15 now carry a "buy" or better rating, with just two a tepid "hold." The 12-month consensus price target of $155.62 represents 13.1% upside.

Though ICE's options pits are typically quiet, it might not be a bad idea to speculate with calls or puts. The stock's Schaeffer's Volatility Index (SVI) of 14% sits higher than just 3% of readings from the past year, meaning premium is well-priced due to low volatility expectations.

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