Do Wall Street Analysts Like Philip Morris International Stock?

Core Viewpoint - Philip Morris International Inc. is experiencing a positive stock performance driven by its shift towards smoke-free products and favorable pricing in its combustible tobacco business, despite underperforming the broader market over the past year [2][4]. Stock Performance - Over the past 52 weeks, PM stock has increased by 13.3%, while the S&P 500 Index has risen by 18.5%. However, on a year-to-date basis, PM shares are up 22.7%, compared to the S&P 500's 15.1% increase [2]. - PM stock has outperformed the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund, which has seen a 5.5% decline over the past 52 weeks and a 3.3% dip year-to-date [3]. Business Transformation - The company's transition towards smoke-free products, such as the IQOS heated-tobacco system and ZYN nicotine pouches, is gaining global traction, contributing to investor confidence [4]. - Favorable pricing strategies in the combustible tobacco segment have also enhanced profit margins, further supporting the company's growth narrative [4]. Earnings Outlook - For the fiscal year ending December 2025, analysts project PM's earnings per share (EPS) to grow by 14.2% year-over-year to $7.50. The company has a strong earnings surprise history, having exceeded consensus estimates in the last four quarters [5]. - The consensus rating among 15 analysts is a "Moderate Buy," with nine "Strong Buy" ratings, two "Moderate Buys," and four "Holds" [5]. Analyst Ratings and Price Targets - Stifel has reiterated a "Buy" rating with a price target of $180 following strong Q3 results, maintaining optimism despite short-term inventory challenges [6]. - The mean price target for PM is $190.46, indicating a potential upside of 29%, while the highest target of $220 suggests a possible upside of 49% from the current price [7].