Breaking Down AutoNation: 7 Analysts Share Their Views
Providing a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish, 7 analysts have published ratings on AutoNation (NYSE:AN) in the last three months.
In the table below, you'll find a summary of their recent ratings, revealing the shifting sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the previous months.
| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Ratings | 0 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $245.0, a high estimate of $300.00, and a low estimate of $222.00. Observing a 5.6% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $232.00.
Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study
The standing of AutoNation 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.
| Analyst | Analyst Firm | Action Taken | Rating | Current Price Target | Prior Price Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colin Langan | Wells Fargo | Raises | Equal-Weight | $230.00 | $222.00 |
| John Babcock | Barclays | Lowers | Overweight | $245.00 | $250.00 |
| Rajat Gupta | JP Morgan | Maintains | Overweight | $235.00 | $235.00 |
| Colin Langan | Wells Fargo | Raises | Equal-Weight | $222.00 | $220.00 |
| Adam Jonas | Morgan Stanley | Raises | Overweight | $233.00 | $225.00 |
| Douglas Dutton | Evercore ISI Group | Raises | Outperform | $300.00 | $240.00 |
| John Babcock | Barclays | Announces | Overweight | $250.00 | - |
Key Insights:
- Action Taken: Analysts adapt their recommendations to changing market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their response to recent developments related to AutoNation. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
- Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of AutoNation compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts predict movements in price targets, offering estimates for AutoNation's future value. Examining the current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of AutoNation's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on AutoNation analyst ratings.
Delving into AutoNation's Background
AutoNation is the second-largest automotive dealer in the United States, with 2024 revenue of about $27 billion and over 240 dealerships, plus 52 collision centers. The firm also has 26 AutoNation USA used-vehicle stores, a captive lender, four auction sites, and three parts distributors across 20 states primarily in Sunbelt metropolitan areas. New-vehicle sales account for nearly half of revenue; the company also sells used vehicles, parts, and repair services as well as auto financing. The company (formerly Republic Industries) divested its waste management unit (Republic Services) in 1999 and its car rental businesses (ANC Rental) in 2000. Wayne Huizenga founded the company in the 1990s to bring the rollup acquisition strategy to auto retailing, which has proved to be a smart move.
Key Indicators: AutoNation's Financial Health
Market Capitalization: Positioned above industry average, the company's market capitalization underscores its superiority in size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining AutoNation's financials over 3M reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 6.85% as of 30 September, 2025, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Consumer Discretionary sector.
Net Margin: AutoNation's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 3.06% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 8.64%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): AutoNation's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 1.55%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 3.9.
What Are Analyst Ratings?
Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Beyond their standard evaluations, some analysts contribute predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, furnishing investors with additional guidance. Users of analyst ratings should be mindful that this specialized advice is shaped by human perspectives and may be subject to variability.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.