Jefferies upgrades Topgolf Callaway Brands to buy

Investing.com -- Jefferies upgraded Topgolf Callaway Brands (NYSE:MODG ) to "buy" from "hold" on Thursday citing a potential doubling in value as the company prepares to spin off its struggling Topgolf business by the second half of 2025.

The brokerage upped its price target by $2 to $13 given the fact that the stock was oversold and currently undervalues the company's core Callaway golf equipment division.

Jefferies’ sum-of-the-parts analysis says MODG trades at less than half its estimated valuation, even as the broader golf industry sees robust growth.

"Despite recent management doubts, history shows a deep understanding of golf equipment, and tailwinds in golf are robust," Jefferies analysts wrote in a note.

The golf industry logged its largest year-on-year increase in rounds played since 2020, up 11.5% in October, with total rounds in 2024 outpacing last year's record levels.

Topgolf, however, remains a drag on MODG’s performance. Its same-store sales are expected to decline in the low double digits this year, reflecting operational inefficiencies that have overshadowed Callaway's strength.

Jefferies estimates that post-spin, Callaway could command a higher valuation multiple than peer Acushnet Holdings Corp (NYSE:GOLF ) with Topgolf still holding potential value if concerns over landlord financing obligations are resolved.

Source: Investing.com