Following Masonite International (NYSE:DOOR) fourth-quarter earnings release, Stifel analysts downgraded the company from Buy to Hold, while raising the price target to $133.00 from $119.00. Despite Masonite’s earnings aligning with expectations and a positive surprise in North American business performance, ongoing weaknesses in Europe and the Architectural sector led to the downgrade.
Elliott highlighted the ongoing acquisition of Masonite by Owens Corning, expected to close in mid-2024, and emphasized the importance of mergers and acquisitions in the building products industry for achieving scale. The adjustment in Masonite’s rating reflects the anticipated successful close of this acquisition without regulatory issues.