J.B. Hunt Fundamentals Still Stuck In The Mud: Analyst

Core Viewpoint - J.B. Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) reported a modest share price increase following its latest earnings report, with total operating revenue for the current quarter at $2.93 billion, unchanged from the previous quarter, while operating income decreased by 4% to $197.3 million [1] Financial Performance - Total operating revenue for the current quarter was $2.93 billion, flat compared to the second quarter of 2024 [1] - Operating income decreased by 4% to $197.3 million from $205.7 million in the second quarter of 2024 [1] - Revenue per load excluding fuel dipped by 3.2% year-over-year but still exceeded expectations [4] Analyst Reactions - Benchmark analyst Christopher Kuhn reiterated a Buy rating with a price forecast of $165, while Stifel analyst J. Bruce Chan maintained a Hold rating and lowered the price forecast from $150 to $145 [2] - Chan characterized the second quarter of 2025 as a "slight beat," but noted that the company's fundamentals remain weak [6] - Analysts are reviewing estimates, with Chan lowering 2025 and 2026 EPS estimates to $5.65 and $7.25 from $5.85 and $7.50 respectively [9] Segment Performance - Stronger-than-anticipated performance in the Dedicated segment contributed positively, with intermodal volumes rising by 6% year-over-year [3] - Dedicated segment revenue matched projections, but operating profit was 14% higher due to cost controls and ramp-up benefits from new accounts [4] - Despite ICS remaining unprofitable, improvements are expected, with a forecast for profitability in 2025 as $35 million in BNSF-related costs will not recur [5] Market Outlook - Analysts express growing confidence in the intermodal conversion story, noting that budget-conscious shippers are seeking cost-saving options amid soft truckload spot rates [8] - The environment is described as stable despite trade policy uncertainty, with inflation remaining a challenge [7] - The stock is viewed more favorably around the $130 range, with a preference for stocks with clearer self-help levers and stronger downside protection [9] Price Action - JBHT shares are trading higher by 1.69% to $151.39 [10]