Why MicroStrategy Shares Jumped

Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of MicroStrategy jumped today by as much as 11% after the company received an analyst upgrade.

So what: FBR Capital upgraded its rating on MicroStrategy from "market perform" to "outperform," while boosting its price target from $105 to $140. The firm cited sales management changes and new cloud-based offerings, combined with possible margin expansion as two reasons for the boost. The company's operating leverage should contribute to greater profitability.

Now what: Shares are attractively valued, according to the analyst, at just 1.4 times EV/revenue based in 2014 estimates. Comparable companies in the industry fetch a 3.2 multiple, making MicroStrategy look relatively cheaper. Fourth-quarter results may have muted investor expectations, but FBR believes that is providing an opportunity at current prices.

Interested in more info on MicroStrategy? Add it to your watchlist by clicking here.

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The article Why MicroStrategy Shares Jumped originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Evan Niu, CFA, has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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