Barclays Cuts Pentair (PNR) Price Target to $102, Warns Pool Margins May Limit Upside

Pentair plc (NYSE:PNR) is included among the 13 Cheapest Dividend Aristocrats to Invest in.

On February 5, Barclays analyst Julian Mitchell cut his price recommendation on Pentair plc (NYSE:PNR) to $102 from $115 after reviewing the company’s latest earnings. He kept an Equal Weight rating on the stock. In his view, shares could have a hard time gaining momentum as long as pool margins are “treading water.”

During the fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call, Pentair’s CEO John Stauch reflected on the company’s direction as it enters its 60th year. He described a focused strategy built around customers, innovation, tight execution, and sustainability. Management believes that the foundation puts the company in a good position to post solid growth in 2026 and beyond.

Stauch also outlined several leadership changes. Nick Brazis has been named the incoming CFO. At the same time, De’Mon Wiggins and Adrian Chiu are stepping into new roles as part of a broader effort to realign the organization. One of the more meaningful changes is set for the first quarter of 2026. The company plans to combine its Flow residential business with the residential segment in Water Solutions. Stauch said the move is designed to create regional sales and G&A efficiencies while also positioning the business for both organic expansion and potential acquisitions.

On performance, the fourth quarter showed steady progress. Sales rose 5%, marking the 15th consecutive quarter of margin expansion. Adjusted operating profit increased 9%. Return on sales improved by 90 basis points to 24.7%, and adjusted EPS climbed 9% to $1.18. For the full year, Pentair posted record results across several key measures, including annual sales, adjusted operating income, return on sales, and adjusted EPS.

Pentair plc (NYSE:PNR) provides a broad portfolio of smart, sustainable water solutions serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Flow, Water Solutions, and Pool.

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