Wells Fargo Analyst Initiates AMC Coverage at ‘Outperform’

Wells Fargo media analyst Marci Ryvicker has initiated coverage of AMC Networks with a positive “outperform” rating.

“We think AMC possesses every [attribute] that will help it navigate the uncertain media waters successfully,” Ryvicker said in a note Tuesday.

She said the company offers a “clean” programming portfolio, it owns content, its distribution is increasing, it is earning a growing share of the shrinking TV ad pie and it doesn’t have to worry about NFL ratings.

She also said the company has trusted management, and there is the possibility that merger and acquisition activity could boost the stock.

While noting that AMC’s ratings are down on some shows, including The Walking Dead, she notes that there is no other place where advertisers can capture as many adult 18-to-49 eyeballs. AMC’s closest competitors in terms of quality programming are not ad supported, such as HBO, Showtime and Netflix, she adds.

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In terms of earnings, Ryvicker’s initial estimate is $6.52 per share for 2017, which is above the Wall Street consensus of $6.49.

Ryvicker estimates that based on Discovery Communications's planned acquisition of Scripps Networks Interactive, AMC Should be valued at $76 a share. Her current price target for AMC is $72 a share.

AMC shares were tradiing at $58.26 a share, up 49 cents, in Tueday morning (Oct. 10) trading.

Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.