May 6, 2025

Ron Finklestien

“Unlocking 26% Gain Potential: Insights on ESML’s Holdings”

Analysts Predict Upside for iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA Small-Cap ETF

In our latest analysis of ETFs, we evaluated the underlying holdings of the iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA Small-Cap ETF (Symbol: ESML). By comparing the current trading price of each holding with the average analyst 12-month target price, we calculated the weighted average implied analyst target for the ETF at $48.19 per unit.

Currently, ESML is trading at approximately $38.30 per unit. This suggests that analysts foresee a 25.83% upside based on the average target prices of the ETF’s underlying holdings. Notably, three of these holdings show significant potential for price appreciation: Wave Life Sciences Ltd (Symbol: WVE), McGrath RentCorp (Symbol: MGRC), and Energizer Holdings Inc (Symbol: ENR).

Wave Life Sciences Ltd is currently trading at $7.73 per share, yet analysts project a target price of $21.08, representing a potential upside of 172.74%. Meanwhile, McGrath RentCorp, trading at $108.50, has an average target of $142.50, indicating 31.34% upside. Energizer Holdings Inc is priced at $25.88, with an expected target of $33.75, amounting to 30.41% upside. Below is a twelve-month price history chart comparing the stock performance of WVE, MGRC, and ENR:

WVE, MGRC, and ENR Relative Performance Chart

Here is a summary table presenting the current analyst target prices:

Name Symbol Recent Price Avg. Analyst 12-Mo. Target % Upside to Target
iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA Small-Cap ETF ESML $38.30 $48.19 25.83%
Wave Life Sciences Ltd WVE $7.73 $21.08 172.74%
McGrath RentCorp MGRC $108.50 $142.50 31.34%
Energizer Holdings Inc ENR $25.88 $33.75 30.41%

Are these analyst targets justified, or do they display overly optimistic forecasts for these stocks’ future performance? Investors should consider whether there is a substantial foundation for these targets, especially in light of recent developments in the companies and their respective industries. A high price target relative to a stock’s current trading price may signal optimism, but could also indicate potential target price downgrades if the targets become outdated. These considerations warrant further research by investors.

10 ETFs With Most Upside To Analyst Targets »

Additional Resources:

• ETF Fund Flows
• USAU Stock Predictions
• SDC YTD Return

The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.