11.2% Below Target

Waters Corporation (WAT) has a consensus 12-month price target of $395.25, implying 11.2% upside from $355.44. The 35 analysts covering WAT see moderate appreciation potential.

WAT has a consensus rating of "Hold" based on 35 Wall Street analysts. The rating breakdown is mixed, with 20 Hold ratings making up the largest segment. The consensus 12-month price target of $395.25 implies 11.2% upside from current levels.

WAT trades at a forward P/E of 24.4851x, representing a moderate valuation. With analysts targeting $395.25 (11.2% implied move), the stock appears reasonably valued with upside.

The most bullish Wall Street analyst has a price target of $440 for WAT, while the most conservative target is $350. The consensus of $395.25 represents the median expectation. Our quantitative valuation model projects a bull case target of $640 based on optimistic growth and margin assumptions. These targets typically reflect 12-month expectations.

WAT is heavily covered by Wall Street, with 35 analysts providing price targets and ratings. Of these, 0 have Strong Buy ratings, 12 have Buy ratings, 20 recommend Hold, and 3 have Sell or Strong Sell ratings. Higher analyst coverage generally indicates greater institutional interest and more reliable consensus estimates.

The 12-month WAT stock forecast based on 35 Wall Street analysts shows a consensus price target of $395.25, with estimates ranging from $350 (bear case) to $440 (bull case). The median consensus rating is "Hold". Our proprietary valuation model produces a base case fair value of $485, with bear/bull scenarios of $306/$640.

Our quantitative valuation model calculates WAT's fair value at $485 (base case), with a bear case of $306 and bull case of $640. The model uses discounted cash flow analysis, historical growth rates, and margin mean-reversion to project FY+2 earnings, then applies an appropriate P/E multiple. The model confidence score is 55/100.

WAT trades at a forward P/E ratio of 24.5x based on next-twelve-months earnings estimates compared to a trailing P/E of 33.0x. The lower forward P/E indicates analysts expect earnings growth. A forward P/E is useful for comparing valuations when earnings are expected to change significantly.

Wall Street analysts are optimistic on WAT, with a "Hold" consensus rating and $395.25 price target (11.2% upside). 12 of 35 analysts rate it Buy or Strong Buy. This information is for educational purposes only. Always conduct your own research, consider your financial situation, and consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

WAT analyst price targets range from $350 to $440, a 23% tight range reflecting strong analyst consensus. Differences stem from varying assumptions about revenue growth, profit margins, competitive dynamics, and valuation multiples. The $395.25 consensus represents the middle ground. Our model's $306-$640 range provides an independent fundamental perspective.