We have updated our estimates for the volumes in the recent Q1 trading update and a back-end-loaded harvest profile in the quarter, with a higher share of downgrades. We expect operating EBIT of NOK997m for the quarter, c16% below consensus of NOK1,188m. We do not consider these changes to be material, and we have not changed our BUY recommendation. We reiterate our NOK650 target price. The full Q1 report is due at 06:30 CET on 20 May.
The unfolding trade war has led us to cut our global 2025–2027e demand and trim our spot price estimates. The negative price effect is partly countered by reduced mortality boosting volumes and lowering costs, leading to net EPS cuts of 11–2%. Given the sector’s solid track record in adapting to past crises and recent share-price declines, we see a significantly improved risk/reward and have a positive stance on the sector. We have upgraded Mowi, Bakkafrost, and Grieg Seafood to BUY (HOLD).
Benchmark Holdings’ sale of its Genetics business to Novo Holdings announced in November 2024 is guided to close in calendar Q1 2025. The initial consideration of GBP230m (plus GBP30m in potential earnout) is set to be used to pay down debt and excess capital returned to shareholders. We have adjusted our estimates after the Q1 results, as Benchmark Holdings will retain more short-term corporate costs than previously expected. We reiterate our BUY but have cut our target price to NOK6.3 (7.2).
Good growth due to warm waters and reduced biological challenges have resulted in a material uptick in standing biomass and a favourable supply outlook. We have raised our 2025e YOY harvest growth to 7.1% (5.0%), driven by Norway, which we now expect to grow 6.9% (3.6%) YOY. We have cut our 2025–2027e spot prices to EUR7.2 (7.5) and EUR7.6 (7.8), corresponding to NOK84–89/kg. We have cut our 2025–2026e EPS by 13–9% and reiterate our neutral view on the sector, expecting sideways movement until s...
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