What Pfizer's Upgrade Means For Mutual Fund Investors (PFE)

On Monday morning, Jefferies boosted its price target on Pfizer (PFE). Here’s what the upgrade means for mutual fund investors.

Inside the Upgrade

Jefferies analyst Jeffrey Holford has boosted its price target on Pfizer from $42 to $45. This new price target suggests a 28% upside from the stock’s current price. The firm has also added PFE to its “Franchise Picks” list.

The firm has raised its 2015 EPS estimates from $2.07 to $2.08. FY2016 EPS estimates were increased from $2.21 to $2.30.

The analyst commented: “We expect PFE shares to significantly appreciate over the next 1-2 years based on a better than expected launch of Ibrance, greater appreciation of the durable growth on offer in GEP, further accretive and potentially tax-driven M&A, and the separation of GEP by 2017 at a minimum from the rest of the business.”

Growth and Income

So far in 2015, shares of Pfizer have gained about 12%. While the company has outperformed the S&P 500, it failed to beat the pharmaceuticals industry as a whole.

The stock has grown at a steady rate over the last few years and has a dividend yield of about 3.2%. Pfizer stock is perhaps most ideal for income-focused investors that are planning on holding the stock over the long-haul.

Mutual Funds to Watch

The funds listed below may be a good option for investors seeking exposure to PFE. The three funds below currently hold the largest stakes in the company.

The Bottom Line

The funds highlighted above offer investors a stake in PFE, while remaining diversified. Investors interested in PFE may also be interested in Merck (MRK) or Johnson & Johnson (JNJ).

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