Analyst Sentiment Sours on Austrian Energy Giant OMV

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Market experts are growing increasingly bearish on the outlook for OMV. The Austrian energy group has seen its stock rating downgraded by two major international banks in quick succession, signaling a shift in institutional sentiment. This wave of caution is primarily attributed to a deteriorating operating environment across the energy sector.

RBC Capital Markets has become the latest institution to revise its position, moving its recommendation from "Sector Perform" to "Underperform." In a significant adjustment, the Canadian investment bank also slashed its price target for OMV shares from 50 euros to 47 euros. This move follows a similar downgrade to "Sell" by Goldman Sachs, which was issued in January.

Analysts at RBC pointed to near-term headwinds, suggesting the conglomerate is likely to feel pressure from challenging market conditions. The stock recently traded around 50.10 euros.

Key Developments for Investors:

• Consecutive Downgrades: Both RBC Capital Markets and Goldman Sachs have lowered their assessments within a short timeframe.
• Revised Price Target: RBC now projects a value of 47 euros per share.
• Dividend Forecast: Market consensus anticipates a dividend of 4.45 euros per share for the 2025 financial year.
• Upcoming Catalyst: The company is scheduled to release its final 2025 annual figures on February 4.

Strategic Pivot Faces Scrutiny

These analyst actions come as OMV continues to execute its long-term "Strategy 2030," a blueprint for transitioning toward more sustainable business areas. A central pillar of this reorientation involves substantial investment in green hydrogen production.

However, the firm's environmental commitments are not without critics. In December, the Austrian Association for Consumer Information (VKI) published a "greenwashing check" that cast doubt on the substance behind the company's public sustainability communications.

February Results to Set the Tone

The upcoming release of OMV's 2025 financial statements on February 4 is viewed as a pivotal event. The figures will provide a clear indication of how successfully the company has navigated recent operational challenges. Furthermore, the market expects management to offer guidance on future dividend policy—a critical valuation component for a significant portion of its shareholder base.

@ boerse-global.de | AT0000743059 ANALYST