What happened
Shares of equipment giant United Rentals, Inc. (URI -0.53%) jumped an impressive 19.8% in January, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence, after the company reported earnings and a new acquisition. The rental business, it seems, has a bright future ahead.
So what
Fourth-quarter 2016 revenue was flat at $1.52 billion, but adjusted earnings per share jumped to $2.67 from $2.19 a year ago. Management said demand was strong in the quarter and is expected to pick up as energy and infrastructure demand rise throughout the year.
Image source: Getty Images.
The acquisition in question was the $965 million buyout of NES Rentals Holdings, which is expected to close in the second quarter. Management says that when completed, the deal will be accretive and will consolidate some of the rental industry, likely allowing for higher prices and less inventory overall.
What should give investors some confidence is management's anticipated net rental capital spend of $900 million to $1.05 billion in 2017, an increase from $750 million in 2016. Management thinks end-market conditions are improving quickly enough to expand, which could lead to revenue and earnings growth going forward.
Now what
While there are some positive signs for United Rentals, I think the stock is expensive at 19.5 times trailing earnings and with no top-line growth at all. While market conditions may be improving, the stock is priced high for a company that's not inherently high-growth to begin with. After a long run higher, this stock may be ready to fizzle out if financials don't improve soon, and I wouldn't want to be holding shares if results disappoint the market's new lofty expectations.
