Ryanair share price struggles after recent bad news

​While it has managed to rally off its lows, the Ryanair share price was hit hard by news that second quarter (Q2) profits had nearly halved. As a result, Ryanair expects to cut fares in a bid to stimulate demand, something that will hurt profit margins.

​Ryanair’s strong margins will provide some insulation from any further summer turmoil, but should bookings remain weak investors should prepare for further cuts in prices.

​Ryanair valuation and broker ratings

​Ryanair’s recent fall has taken the valuation back to the five-year average around 10 times earnings. Much of the bad news may now be in the price, though investors will be wary around a possible decline in bookings over the key summer period.

​Of the 21 brokers covering the stock, fourteen still have ‘buy’ or ‘strong buy’ ratings, though this is down from 17 in mid-July. Seven analysts have ‘hold’ ratings, an increase from 4 a month ago.

​Price targets have similarly shifted over the last month. In mid-July the median target price was €24.00, and this has now come down to €19.00. This still represents upside of 29% however to the current price (as of 15 August).

​Ryanair share price – technical analysis

​Ryanair has taken a tremendous knock since its high in April at nearly €22.00. The decline was firmly in place before the profit warning, but the news gave the price a shove to the €14.00 level.

​However, it has managed to hold it for the time being, and a close back above the early July support level at €16.00 might help to bolster the view in the short-term. A close back below €13.50 brings the December 2022 low at €12.20 back into view.

​RYA chart

Source: IG Source: IG