After Zoomlion walked away from Terex (TEX), William Blair analyst Lawrence De Maria questioned if Manitowoc (MTW) could be the next target. Zoomlion noted in its release that it "will continue to seek strategic opportunities" and further "procure its strategic transformation and industrial upgrading," De Maria told investors Friday afternoon in a research note. "While an offer from Zoomlion is far from certain, long Manitowoc could be an opportunity for speculative investors," the analyst contends. He points out that a 10 times EBITDA multiple implies a $6.50 per share price for Manitowoc. A "less realistic" 11 times multiple implies a $7.50 per share price for Manitowoc, he adds. De Maria listed Joy Global (JOY) and AGCO (AGCO) as other potential strategic acquisitions for off-shore buyers looking to expand technology.

Barclays lowered the firm's price target on Manitowoc to $12 from $15 and keeps an Underweight rating on the shares ahead of the Q1 report. Earnings momentum in the machinery and constructing group could soften in the first half of 2024, which could test the sector's multiple framework, the analyst tells investors in a research note.