Analyst Ryan Merkel of William Blair assigned a Hold rating on Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc., retaining the price target of $6.40.
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Ryan Merkel has given his Hold rating due to a combination of factors tied to near‑term softness and macro uncertainty. First‑quarter sales are running below prior expectations, leading him to trim his 2026 EBITDA forecast versus consensus, as weather disruptions, plant shutdowns, and slower rail and sea logistics weighed on January and February volumes.
At the same time, March appears to be improving toward normal demand levels, and PAL’s fuel surcharge structure limits direct margin pressure from higher fuel costs. However, Merkel highlights the recent jump in oil prices as a notable risk, since a sustained move toward $4.00‑per‑gallon gasoline could dampen auto demand, so confirming a seasonal recovery in March and April is critical before taking a more constructive stance.
According to TipRanks, Merkel is a 4-star analyst with an average return of 4.6% and a 52.17% success rate. Merkel covers the Industrials sector, focusing on stocks such as QXO Inc, Fastenal Company, and Aaon.