The Bull Case for Why Bombardier Stock Could Run Higher

Here’s why investors looking for high-risk, high-reward plays ought to take a look at Bombardier (TSX:BBD.B) stock.

| More on:

The stock market continues to make new all-time highs on what seems like a eerily frequent basis of late. Accordingly, it can be difficult for many investors to look at smaller-cap options. High-flying growth stocks continue to outperform, with the vast majority of economically sensitive companies sputtering of late. Investors in Bombardier (TSX:BBD.B) stock certainly know a thing or two about being patient.

Indeed, the aviation industry is one of the few sectors that have been hit hard due to the pandemic. With international travel coming to a standstill, airlines and aircraft manufacturers have struggled to survive.

However, Bombardier has done everything in its power to do so. Its aggressive cost-cutting measures and a focus on its core business jet segment have resulted in a boom in investor confidence in this stock. Indeed, Bombardier stock is now trading near its 52-week high at the time of writing. From its lows, Bombardier has increased more than 500%.

That’s an impressive comeback. Here’s why I think Bombardier stock may have more room to run from here.

Debt refinancing bullish for Bombardier stock

The financial picture for Bombardier remains unpleasant. Indeed, the aforementioned shock the pandemic provided to this company’s ability to operate business as usual has resulted in cash flow declines that led many investors to believe bankruptcy could be around the corner.

However, Bombardier recently announced the refinancing of bonds due over the next two years. Approximately US$750 million of 6.5-year bonds were sold at 6%. These bonds would push out the company’s bonds due over the next three years to further down the road, allowing Bombardier time to fully recover.

That’s quite the premium to where bond yields are at today. However, investors need to remember that Bombardier stock isn’t exactly rock solid right now. That said, should the company’s financial condition improve, the potential for another debt refinancing down the road isn’t out of the question.

Both major ratings agencies have upgraded their outlook for Bombardier. Currently, the company’s debt rating is still below investment grade, but only slightly. An improvement to investment grade debt could be a huge catalyst for this debt-ladened company.

One of the reasons for these ratings agencies to upgrade their outlook was Bombardier’s forward guidance for 2021. The company announced EBITDA expectations of US$575 million compared to the US$500 million number previously given out. This is above many analyst expectations. Additionally, this is on top of an already strong earnings report, which beat analyst expectations.

Bottom line

Bombardier is a company with a lot of hair on it. Indeed, from a fundamentals perspective, things are starting to look better for this business jet manufacturer. However, like many turnaround stocks, there’s a lot of work to be done to get investors from where the company is today to where management sees Bombardier in a few years from now.

However, for those who believe management can do what it says it’s going to do, there’s a lot of potential upside with Bombardier stock. I’m of the belief that this is an economic recovery play that could benefit from an improved debt picture in the coming years. Indeed, if the stars align, Bombardier stock could turn out to the high-risk, high-reward play investors are looking for today.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Chris MacDonald has no position in any stocks mentioned in this article.

More on Investing

think thought consider
Tech Stocks

Is CGI Stock a Buy Even With No Dividend Yield?

CGI stock may not have a dividend to speak of. But does that necessarily mean you should ignore this top…

Read more »

A robotic hand interacting with a visual AI touchscreen display.
Tech Stocks

Why Now Is the Time to Invest in Canadian AI Stocks

Are you looking for one of the most solid Canadian AI stocks out there? This one is probably your best…

Read more »

The letters AI glowing on a circuit board processor.
Tech Stocks

Why AI Stocks Should Be in Every Canadian Investor’s Portfolio

AI stocks continue to be one of the best options out there for long-term investing, especially when considering Canadian options.

Read more »

stock research, analyze data
Bank Stocks

Canadian Bank Stocks: Buy, Sell, or Hold?

There are opportunities and risks on the horizon for the Canadian banks.

Read more »

Young Boy with Jet Pack Dreams of Flying
Stock Market

Is Air Canada Stock a Good Buy After Its Q3 Results

Down almost 60% from all-time highs, Air Canada is an undervalued TSX stock that remains an enticing investment in November…

Read more »

cloud computing
Investing

Where to Invest $10,000 in November

Given their solid underlying businesses and healthy growth prospects, I expect these two defensive stocks to outperform uncertain outlook.

Read more »

coins jump into piggy bank
Retirement

Here’s the Average RRSP Balance at Age 44 for Canadians

Holding stocks like Alimentation Couche-Tard (TSX:ATD) in an RRSP is a good way to build your wealth.

Read more »

dividends can compound over time
Dividend Stocks

Want a 7% Yield? The 3 TSX Stocks to Buy Today

These TSX stocks are offering high yields of over 7%, making them attractive for investors seeking steady passive income.

Read more »