PPG Stock: Exciting Returns from a Dull Industry

Like many analysts, I am bullish on PPG Industries, Inc. (PPG).

PPG (formerly Pittsburgh Paint & Glass) is the second-largest producer in the U.S. of chemicals, architectural paints, industrial coatings, marine coatings, packaging coatings, and specialty materials.

The company has operations and sales in six regions across the globe. (See PPG stock charts on TipRanks)

Share prices are up 27.8% over the past year, and annual sales were $13.8 billion in 2020. Q2 net income came in at $431 million, which was reported on July 19.

The company also holds a “Perfect 10” TipRanks Smart Score, citing positive technicals, and bullish news sentiment.

Potential Downsides to PPG Stock

Following the global paints and coatings industry is as exciting as watching paint dry. Organic growth increases in revenue and gallonage are slow and steady.

The market competition is from local manufacturers and about 10 global companies. Mainland China and other Asian countries are the largest markets of production, and consumption.

Downsides to consider if investing in PPG include raw material shortages, and inflation sparking end-user price increases. Recent downward pressures on the stock price are because of these factors, and their impact on future revenue and margins.

PPG’s debt level is not a concern, but worth noting. The company lists short-term liabilities at $5.5 billion on its current balance sheet. Cash and receivables total $4.7 billion. The company’s strong cash flow puts it in a position to cover debt and interest payments. 

Other risks include compliance costs to meet environmental standards in a highly regulated industry. Shortages of raw materials, and price hikes plague the chemicals and coatings industry. There is also a global shortage of containers for materials from China and Africa.

Finally, COVID-19 hit Chinese workforces and PPG factory workers particularly hard, limiting production output. PPG released a statement saying, “The effects of the recent COVID-19 pandemic have negatively impacted and are continuing to adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations.”

On the Bright Side

PPG ended the first quarter with 25 of the top 30 hedge funds having shares in their portfolios. There has not been a lot of insider trading all year, with just two sells in the past five months.

PPG’s market power puts the company in a better position to corral production materials and raises prices for end-products.

The company is also not relying on organic growth. The share price is not propped up by company buybacks. PPG is pursuing M&A worldwide. Yet, its debt-to-equity ratio at last report is a low 2.49.

Wall Street’s Take

PPG earns a Strong Buy consensus rating from Wall Street analysts, based on 11 Buys, and one Hold. The average PPG price target of $186.55 implies 19.2% upside potential to current levels of trading.

Bottom Line

PPG management focuses on building revenue, margins, and profits, while spending cash prudently. It speaks regularly about protecting shareholder equity.

Chemicals and paints may offer little glitz and romance, but they provide plenty of opportunities for making money.

Disclosure: At the time of publication, Harold Goldmeier did not have a position in any of the securities mentioned in this article

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article represents the views and opinion of the writer only, and not the views or opinion of TipRanks or its affiliates, and should be considered for informational purposes only. TipRanks makes no warranties about the completeness, accuracy or reliability of such information. Nothing in this article should be taken as a recommendation or solicitation to purchase or sell securities. Nothing in the article constitutes legal, professional, investment and/or financial advice and/or takes into account the specific needs and/or requirements of an individual, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters or subject discussed therein. TipRanks and its affiliates disclaim all liability or responsibility with respect to the content of the article, and any action taken upon the information in the article is at your own and sole risk. The link to this article does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TipRanks or its affiliates. Past performance is not indicative of future results, prices or performance.