Ultrapar Holdings Inc., a leading player in the distribution sector, has announced the acquisition of 49 service stations from Grupo Pão de Açúcar. The deal, valued at R$ 130 million, was facilitated through its subsidiary Centro de Conveniências Millennium Ltda. and is aimed at expanding its existing network of Ipiranga service stations across Brazil.
The transaction, announced on Wednesday, is currently pending approval by Brazil’s Administrative Council of Economic Defense (CADE) and is subject to other customary closing conditions. Once finalized, the acquisition will integrate the service stations into Ipiranga’s extensive service network, which includes approximately 6,000 stations throughout the country.
Rodrigo de Almeida Pizzinatto, Chief Financial and Investor Relations Officer of Ultrapar Participações S.A., confirmed the agreement, emphasizing the company’s compliance with CVM Resolution 44/21. This strategic move is expected to strengthen Ultrapar’s market presence in São Paulo, the most populous state in Brazil.
This news is based on a press release statement and reflects the latest developments in Ultrapar’s business operations. The company’s shares are traded on the B3 under the ticker UGPA3 and on the New York Stock Exchange as UGP.
In other recent news, Ultrapar Participacoes SA (NYSE:) has been upgraded from Neutral to Buy by Citi, citing potential business upside. This upgrade is based on several factors such as ongoing improvements in the Fuel Distribution sector, the resilience of Ultrapar’s primary business segments, and expected benefits from a recent return of a provisional measure related to PIS/COFINS tax credits.
Citi also highlights the strong profitability of Ultragaz, increased sales from Ultracargo due to operational capacity expansion, and anticipated better margins due to healthy competition in the Fuel Distribution industry. Additionally, Citi foresees medium-term value being unlocked through mergers and acquisitions, as well as ongoing reorganization efforts at Ultrapar.
These recent developments reflect Citi’s confidence in Ultrapar’s ability to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities, maintaining a price target of R$28.00 for the company’s shares.
InvestingPro Insights
As Ultrapar Holdings Inc. aims to expand its Ipiranga service station network in Brazil, it’s worth noting that the company stands out in the Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels industry with a track record of maintaining dividend payments for 21 consecutive years. Investors may find Ultrapar’s financial stability appealing, as evidenced by its P/E ratio of 9.04, which suggests the stock is trading at a low price relative to near-term earnings growth. Additionally, the company’s liquid assets exceed its short-term obligations, providing a cushion for operational needs or further expansion efforts.
However, potential investors should be aware of the company’s weak gross profit margins, which stand at 7.23% over the last twelve months as of Q1 2024. This could indicate competitive pressures or operational inefficiencies that may need to be addressed. Despite the recent price drop of approximately 30.57% over the last three months, analysts predict Ultrapar will be profitable this year, which could present a buying opportunity for those looking for value in a profitable company with a solid dividend history.
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