Booz Allen Hamilton (US:BAH) Goldman Sachs·2025-05-30 02:40Investment Rating - The report downgrades Booz Allen Hamilton (BAH) to Sell from Neutral, indicating limited revenue and earnings growth potential in the medium term, with valuation still having downside risk [1][45]. Core Insights - Medium-term revenue growth is expected to be closer to flat due to pressure on federal civilian spending and shifting priorities within the Department of Defense (DoD) [1][2]. - Margin pressures are anticipated as the industry shifts towards more outcomes-based contracting and fixed-price contracts, which could increase risk for contractors [3][31]. - BAH's current trading multiples are 17X P/E and 12X EBITDA on CY26E, which are in line with historical averages but could decline further if earnings remain flat [4][41]. Revenue Outlook - Federal civilian agency budgets are under pressure, leading to expectations of organic revenue growth for BAH being closer to flat for the next several years [2][18]. - The company reported a book-to-bill ratio of 0.71X for the March 2025 quarter, indicating potential challenges in securing new contracts [17][25]. Margin Analysis - The industry is experiencing a shift towards more fixed-price contracts, which may lead to increased competition and pressure on margins [3][31]. - Historical trends show that during periods of revenue pressure, margins in the government services industry have declined due to increased price competition [31][34]. Valuation Metrics - BAH's valuation metrics indicate it trades at 17X CY26E P/E and 12X CY26E EBITDA, which are consistent with its 15-year historical average [4][41]. - The report suggests that if growth and margin pressures continue, BAH's valuation could decline further [4][41]. Financial Projections - The report provides revised financial forecasts for BAH, with expected revenues of $12,220 million for FY26 and $12,342 million for FY27, reflecting lower organic growth assumptions [40]. - Adjusted EBITDA is projected at $1,335 million for FY26 and $1,337 million for FY27, indicating a downward revision from previous estimates [40][45].