Citigroup Raises Curtiss-Wright Price Target to $520 Amid Defense Sector Optimism

Citigroup analyst Jason Gursky has raised the price target for Curtiss-Wright from $444 to $520 while maintaining a Buy rating, reflecting confidence in the company's future performance driven by improved earnings outlooks and favorable industry conditions. This target increase aligns with Citigroup's broader positive reassessment across the U.S. defense sector, including companies like Karman Space & Defense and L3Harris Technologies, based on strong contract wins, acquisitions, and supportive U.S. policy under the current administration. Curtiss-Wright reported a 13% year-over-year sales increase and an expected rise in operating margin guidance, alongside a raised free cash flow forecast. Despite the optimistic price target, average analyst price targets suggest a potential downside from current prices, with some valuation models indicating a significant gap between the stock's market price and estimated fair value. The consensus brokerage recommendation rates Curtiss-Wright as an 'Outperform,' supported by positive sector dynamics and company-specific growth prospects. Investors are advised to weigh these mixed signals, including the broader defense sector re-rating and company fundamentals, when considering their positions in Curtiss-Wright stock.