Based on the provided data and recent market analysis, here's a comprehensive evaluation of HIG's valuation:
Technical Analysis
The stock is currently showing mixed technical signals:
- RSI (14) at 46.61 indicates neutral momentum
- Trading near its 20-day SMA of $112.60, suggesting sideways movement
- Bollinger Band Position (BBP) at 0.30 indicates the stock is in the middle range
Fundamental Valuation
The stock appears reasonably valued based on several metrics:
- Forward P/E of 10.08x (2023) vs 13.93x (2022) shows improved valuation
- EV/EBITDA of 7.54x (2023) vs 9.11x (2022) indicates better operational efficiency
- P/B ratio of 1.60x (2023) suggests the stock is trading close to its book value
Recent Performance & Catalysts
- Q4 2024 earnings showed mixed results:
- Core EPS of $2.94, beating consensus
- Increased general liability reserves by $130M due to higher settlement costs
- Strong commercial lines growth with 6% premium growth
- Auto combined ratio improvements expected to reach mid-90s by mid-2025
Analyst Consensus
- 22 analysts coverage with "Moderate Buy" rating:
- 9 Strong Buy
- 2 Moderate Buy
- 11 Hold
- Mean price target of $127.70 suggests 6.4% upside
- Recent price target upgrades:
- Keefe Bruyette: $140 (25% upside)
- Wells Fargo: Maintained Buy rating
Conclusion: HIG appears fairly valued at current levels. While there are some near-term headwinds from increased liability reserves, the company's strong commercial lines growth, improving auto metrics, and positive analyst sentiment suggest the stock has room for moderate appreciation.