UBS Predicts Strong EPS Acceleration for Linde plc (LIN) in 2026

Core Viewpoint - Linde plc (NASDAQ:LIN) is identified as a strong slow growth stock, with UBS maintaining a Buy rating and a price target of $500, anticipating adjusted earnings per share (EPS) growth rates exceeding 10% in the coming year [1][2]. Group 1: Earnings Growth Projections - UBS forecasts adjusted EPS growth to rise from 6% in 2025 to approximately 9-10% year-over-year in 2026, with additional growth potential from new project launches [2]. - The anticipated growth is expected as Linde plc addresses current challenges, including reduced base volumes year-over-year and declining prices for helium and rare gases [2]. Group 2: Stock Performance and Market Position - Analyst Joshua Spector noted a "2.5x up/downside skew" for Linde's shares, indicating that an acceleration in EPS growth in 2026 could serve as a significant catalyst for the company's stock performance [3]. - Linde plc operates as a global engineering and industrial gases company, providing process gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen, along with related equipment and technologies [3].