Finance

Analyst Moves: Big Upgrades and Downgrades You Need to Know

2025-05-21

Author: Emily

Overview of Key Analyst Changes

Today’s market buzz revolves around several significant analyst upgrades and downgrades that could impact investment strategies. Here’s what you need to know.

CAE Inc.: A Tough Call from RBC

RBC Dominion Securities analyst James McGarragle has lowered his recommendation for CAE Inc. (CAE-T) from "outperform" to "sector perform." While he acknowledges that CAE is well-positioned in the booming fields of pilot training and defense spending, he believes its current valuation is too high. "The shares are the most expensive in our coverage group," he noted, following the company’s solid fourth-quarter results.

Despite CAE’s recent success, McGarragle foresees macroeconomic challenges that could affect its growth, particularly in the Civil segment. His new price target for CAE shares is set at $38, down from $41, aligning with an average target of $40.71 on the Street.

NanoXplore Inc.: Caution Ahead

In a separate note, McGarragle expressed concern over NanoXplore Inc.'s (GRA-T) uncertain outlook, downgrading it from "outperform" to "sector perform" due to ongoing transportation sector headwinds. The Montreal-based graphene manufacturer has seen a dip in revenue expectations, which wanes investor confidence.

Following a recent trim in sales guidance for the fiscal year, NanoXplore’s target price fell to $2.50 from $3, with the average target sitting at $3.79.

D2L Inc.: A Bright Spot in Education Tech

CIBC World Markets analyst Erin Kyle has kicked off coverage on D2L Inc. (DTOL-T) with a bullish "outperform" rating. D2L, a learning management system provider, claims a 19% market share in North America. Kyle sees the company’s commitment to profitability and expansion into corporate and international markets as key growth drivers.

D2L's target has been set at $20, significantly above its current average of $18.60. According to Kyle, the firm is well-positioned to reach impressive margins by 2026.

Coveo Solutions: A Mixed Bag

TD Cowen’s David Kwan gives an optimistic nod to Coveo Solutions Inc. (CVO-T), stating that the firm’s revenue guidance should reassure investors, despite current market turbulence. Coveo has reaffirmed its ambition to achieve 20% year-over-year growth.

Kwan has cut his target for Coveo shares to $10 from $11, maintaining a "buy" rating, even as the company invests heavily in growth. The average target remains at $9.78.

StorageVault Canada: Holding Steady

RBC’s Jimmy Shan reported that StorageVault Canada Inc. (SVI-T) is facing sluggish fundamentals but remains optimistic for a turnaround in 2026. With challenges like decreased housing activity and lower immigration affecting demand, Shan emphasizes the potential for growth if conditions improve.

He maintains an "outperform" rating with a target of $5.50, highlighting the company’s strategic moves in the sector.

Conclusion: Navigating Analyst Opinions

These analyst changes present a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges for investors. Whether you're following CAE’s transition, D2L’s promising outlook, or Coveo’s investment-driven approach, staying informed on these ratings could significantly influence your portfolio decisions.