Evercore ISI lowered its price target on Celanese (NYSE:CE) from $85 to $75, while maintaining an In Line rating, citing near-term opportunity despite medium-term headwinds.
Analysts noted that while macro risks like European auto tariffs and elevated natural gas prices pose challenges, these are unlikely to affect Celanese in the short-term window relevant to this tactical setup.
With first-quarter guidance issued well into the quarter and intra-quarter data showing encouraging signs, Evercore sees the downside as relatively contained. The firm also emphasized a lack of negative pre-announcements, which further supports a potential upside surprise when results are reported.
The call is driven by expectations that investor sentiment is near a trough, and that improving forward visibility, including second-half guidance and operational updates, could reignite interest in the stock.
Additionally, recent debt maturity extensions have eased concerns around leverage, giving Celanese more breathing room as it looks to stabilize operations.
Though the price target was reduced, Evercore views current levels as an attractive risk-reward entry point, particularly for investors looking to capitalize on a short-term rebound in sentiment and valuation.