Unity upgraded to Neutral on 2024 growth reset: Piper Sandler

Unity Software (NYSE:U) was upgraded to Neutral from Underweight by Piper Sandler as the game developer platform company looks to simplify its business in 2024.

Shares sank 13% in premarket trading on Tuesday as investors were disappointed with its fourth-quarter results and outlook.

"Piper entered 2024 with concerns that investor sentiment and the valuation on U were too optimistic relative to a strategic portfolio overhaul, and the 30% Q4 surge in U share price," noted Piper Sandler analyst Brent Bracelin.

The investment bank also lowered its price target on Unity to $30 from $35.

"The material 2024 growth reset to a mid-point of 3%, versus a 9% consensus, implies that the strategic base growth potential is not as high as expected, which could pressure the valuation multiple until growth reaccelerates," Bracelin said.

Unity has substantially refocused its portfolio on products interim CEO Jim Whitehurst said during Monday's earnings call.

"So first off, even in the aftermath of the pricing change, our core subscription business, excluding China, grew 18% in Q4," Whitehurst said. "Putting it simply, we are essential to the games industry."

Unity has a HOLD rating by both Seeking Alpha and Wall Street analysts. However, it has a BUY rating from Seeking Alpha's quant system, which regularly beats the market.