STOCKS | Citi: Mercedes-Benz Share Price Reaction Signals Low Market Expectations

Mercedes-Benz’s share price showed little reaction to an 8% drop in global vehicle sales in the second quarter, which Citi analysts said highlighted very low market expectations. According to Jin10, Citi said investors would likely wait for evidence of strong earnings before interest and taxes margins, or for share buybacks to resume, before returning to the stock. Citi noted that Mercedes-Benz sold 2,000 fewer vehicles in the second quarter than in the first quarter, suggesting margins could be weak again after the 4.1% reported for the first quarter. Van sales rose 1% to 94,000 units, and Citi said the division should deliver another solid quarter with margins close to 10%. Citi maintained a neutral rating on the stock and set a target price of 51 euros.