Should Investors Get Rid of Ryder Stock Despite Its Lower Valuation?

Core Viewpoint - Ryder System, Inc. is currently undervalued based on its forward price-to-sales ratio, trading at 0.58X compared to the industry average of 2.29X, indicating an attractive valuation [1][7]. Valuation Metrics - Ryder's forward 12-month price-to-sales ratio is 0.58X, significantly lower than the industry average of 2.29X over the past five years, suggesting a cheap valuation [1][7]. Shareholder Returns - Ryder has consistently paid dividends for over 48 years, with dividend payments of $123 million in 2022, $128 million in 2023, and a projected $456 million in 2024 through dividends and share repurchases [5][6]. - In the first nine months of 2025, Ryder paid $108 million in dividends and repurchased shares worth $350 million, reflecting a commitment to shareholder value [5][6]. Financial Performance - Ryder's stock has increased by 25% over the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Transportation - Equipment and Leasing industry's growth of 10.4% [9]. - The company has raised its free cash flow outlook for 2025 to between $900 million and $1 billion, up from a previous estimate of $375 million to $475 million [8]. Operating Costs and Liquidity - Ryder faces significant financial pressure due to rising operating costs, with total operating expenses increasing from $10.8 billion in 2022 to $11.9 billion in 2024 [12]. - The company's liquidity is concerning, with cash and cash equivalents of $189 million against a current debt level of $577 million, indicating insufficient cash to meet obligations [13]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Ryder's earnings has been revised downward for the fourth quarter of 2025 and for full-year 2025 and 2026, reflecting a lack of confidence among brokers [15]. - The current earnings estimates for Q1 2026 have also been projected downward, indicating negative sentiment surrounding the stock [15]. Investment Outlook - Despite attractive valuation and shareholder-friendly initiatives, Ryder faces headwinds from increased operating expenses and a volatile macro environment, making it a risky investment choice at this time [17].