Seaport Research Initiates Coverage of Verisk Analytics (VRSK) Stock with a Buy Rating

Group 1 - Verisk Analytics, Inc. (NASDAQ:VRSK) is recognized as a top defensive stock pick by hedge funds, with a "Buy" rating and a price target of $280 initiated by Seaport Research [1][2] - The company is evolving from an industry utility to a data analytics specialist and integrated technology network, focusing on capital investment in core operations and strategic acquisitions [2] - Verisk completed the acquisition of SuranceBay, aimed at streamlining the insurance buying and selling process and enhancing workflows within the insurance ecosystem [2] Group 2 - ClearBridge Investments highlighted Verisk as a significant investment, noting its modern solutions are essential for major insurance companies, with expected growth in high single digits and improved margins and free cash flow [3] - Despite the potential of Verisk, ClearBridge suggests that certain AI stocks may offer greater upside potential and lower downside risk [3]