Argus analyst Chris Graja raised his price target on Masco (MAS) to $50 ahead of its Q1 earnings, saying the company has beaten consensus in eight of the last 12 quarters. Graja also cites his continued optimism about the positive impact of recovery in the U.S. housing market as well as remodeling activity driving sales growth and profitability amid strong consumer demand for renovation brands like "Delta faucets, Hansgrohe faucets (internationally), Behr Paints, Milgard windows and KraftMaid cabinets". Graja further notes an increase in big ticket item spending at Home Depot (HD) and Lowe's (LOW), where customers are taking advantage of the growing professional services business. The analyst keeps his Buy rating on Masco, further noting that its valuation of 12-times trailing EBITDA is "in line or slightly below" the peer average.

Loop Capital lowered the firm's price target on Masco to $76 from $79 and keeps a Hold rating on the shares. The company reported a solid beat on the back of stronger-than-expected plumbing margins, but while its FY24 guidance was only reiterated, with no imminent negative change in trend expected in Q2, this outlook is "potentially conservative", the analyst tells investors in a research note. Masco is executing well despite weak volumes, but the firm still wants better visibility as the margin for error with investors has narrowed, Loop added.