Peabody Energy

Peabody Energy Corp earns a 4-star quantitative star rating, reflecting our opinion that this share class offers a somewhat attractive opportunity for investors. The stock currently trades at a 23% discount to our quantitative fair value estimate of $32.91 per share; however, caution is warranted due to this estimate's high uncertainty rating.

The firm's valuation metrics increase our fair value estimate. A company's valuation metrics provide insights into the market's expectations for its future growth and profitability. For example, the firm's book value yield of 107.5% falls in the top 30% compared with peers globally. The market price is low relative to the book (accounting) value of the company's equity, which contributes to our view that shares are cheap.

The company's balance sheet is an additional encouraging factor. Leverage can enable a company to invest in growth, potentially boosting shareholder value more than equity financing alone. The firm's EBITDA/interest coverage ratio of 4.9, a core component of leverage, sits in the bottom 30% compared with global peers. Although the firm's ability to cover interest payments with EBITDA is limited, shares could sharply rebound if economic circumstances change or recent investments reduce fears of default. This characteristic further promotes our favorable price/fair value ratio.

This company lacks a competitive advantage, receiving a quantitative economic moat rating of none. Additionally, the firm's moderate financial health score suggests it is acceptably positioned against adverse economic circumstances.