Analysts have increased the price target for **Willis Towers Watson Public** (NASDAQ: WTW) from **$356.00** to **$366.00**, according to a research report issued by **Wells Fargo & Company**. This adjustment follows a detailed analysis of the company’s performance and market position, with Wells Fargo maintaining an “overweight” rating on the stock.
Recent evaluations from other analysts provide a mixed outlook for the company. On **November 28, 2023**, **Wall Street Zen** downgraded the stock from a “hold” rating to a “sell” rating. In contrast, **Raymond James Financial** reaffirmed a “strong-buy” rating, raising its price objective from **$380.00** to **$400.00** in a report published on **September 22, 2023**. Following suit, **Evercore ISI** adjusted its target price downward from **$387.00** to **$383.00**, advising an “outperform” strategy as of **January 7, 2024**. **Barclays** also revised its price target, increasing it from **$303.00** to **$318.00**, while maintaining an “underweight” rating. Additionally, **TD Cowen** lowered its target from **$408.00** to **$391.00** but still issued a “buy” rating for the stock.
At present, the consensus among analysts is positive, with two rating the stock a “strong buy,” eight assigning a “buy” rating, four giving it a “hold,” and one issuing a “sell” rating. Data from **MarketBeat.com** reflects an average rating of “moderate buy” alongside an average target price of **$369.08**.
Recent Financial Performance
**Willis Towers Watson** reported its quarterly earnings on **October 30, 2023**, revealing earnings per share (EPS) of **$3.07**. This figure exceeded analysts’ expectations of **$3.05** by **$0.02**. The company achieved a return on equity of **21.46%** and a net margin of **21.58%**. Revenue for the quarter reached **$2.29 billion**, slightly above the anticipated **$2.28 billion**. This reflects a year-over-year growth, with the previous year’s EPS recorded at **$2.93**.
Equities analysts forecast that **Willis Towers Watson** will achieve an EPS of **$17.32** for the current fiscal year, indicating stability in its financial trajectory.
Dividends and Share Buyback Program
The company has also declared a quarterly dividend of **$0.92** per share, which was paid on **January 15, 2024**, to shareholders of record as of **December 31, 2023**. This dividend represents an annualized amount of **$3.68** and yields approximately **1.1%**. The ex-dividend date was noted as **December 31, 2023**, with a payout ratio of **17.52%**.
In a significant move to enhance shareholder value, the board announced a share buyback program on **September 18, 2023**, authorizing up to **$1.50 billion** for repurchasing shares. This program could allow the company to reacquire up to **4.6%** of its shares, indicating management’s confidence in the stock’s valuation.
Institutional Investor Activity
Recent trading activity shows notable interest from institutional investors in **Willis Towers Watson**. **Quadcap Wealth Management LLC** increased its holdings by **4.8%** in the second quarter, now owning **747 shares** valued at **$229,000** after acquiring an additional **34 shares**. **Wedmont Private Capital** also raised its stake by **3.8%** in the third quarter, with **919 shares** now valued at **$322,000**. Similarly, **World Investment Advisors** and **MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust FSB** have added to their positions, reflecting a growing confidence among institutional investors.
Currently, institutional investors and hedge funds collectively own **93.09%** of the company’s stock, highlighting robust institutional support for **Willis Towers Watson**.
**Willis Towers Watson Public** operates as a global advisory, broking, and solutions firm, assisting organizations in managing risk, optimizing benefits, and developing talent. The company offers a wide range of services, including insurance brokerage, human capital consulting, actuarial services, and technology-enabled solutions, catering to a diverse client base that encompasses multinational corporations, public sector entities, and investment managers.
