AAP Rockets Higher – Is a Correction Coming?

AAP Rockets Higher – Is a Correction Coming?

Metrics Summary

💰 Current Price

$58.68
Live Market Price

🎯 Price Targets & Forecasts

1-Month Forecast:

$28.92

📉 -50.7%

1-Year Forecast:

$16.05

📉 -72.6%

Analyst Mean Target:

$49.40

📉 -15.8%

📈 Trend & Momentum

Trend:

🚀 ▲ Bullish (Price > SMA 50/200)
RSI (14-day):

37.5 (Neutral) ⚖️
MACD:

📉 Bearish Short-Term Trend (-0.53)

📊 Key Technical Levels

Above SMA 50:

✅ $53.79
Above SMA 200:

✅ $43.30
52-Week Range:

📏 $28.89 – $70.00

⚡ Volatility

Volatility (30d Ann.):

50.1% 🌪️
Beta (vs. Market):

1.07xx ⚖️
(Moderate)
Green Days (30d):

15/30 (50%) 🟡

🏢 Ownership

Institutional Ownership:

125.84% 🏛️
Short % of Float:

24.45% 😰
(High Bearish Bets)

Right now, AAP’s stock is trading at $58.68. The technical indicators are showing a bullish pattern because the price is holding relative to both the 50-day ($53.79) and 200-day ($43.30) moving averages. This suggests the stock has been gaining momentum recently. However, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 37.5 is Neutral—neither overbought nor oversold—while the MACD indicator shows a bearish short-term trend, meaning there could be some minor pullbacks before the next upward move.

Over the past year, AAP’s stock has traded between $28.89 and $70.00, which tells us two things: First, investor sentiment has been mixed. Second, the current price is trading mid-range, meaning big swings are less likely unless something major happens. Analysts expect modest growth ahead, with a 1-year target of $16.05 (-72.6%) and an average consensus target of $49.40 (-15.8%). Plus, with 125.84% institutional ownership and very low short interest (24.45%), it seems a notable number of investors are betting on a price decline.

Detailed Forecast Table

Here’s the breakdown of the month forecast for AAP ($0.00 to $58.51 overall range). The table shows projected price bands, potential ROI against the current price, and the resulting model signal per period.

Over the forecast horizon (2025-07 to 2026-07), AAP’s price is projected by the model to fluctuate between approximately $0.00 and $58.51.

The projected price range remains relatively consistent (from $58.51 – $58.51 to $0.00 – $36.60), implying stable forecast uncertainty.

Month (Period)Min. PriceAvg. PriceMax. PricePotential ROI vs Current ($58.68)Model Signal
2025-07$58.51$58.51$58.51 -0.3%Hold/Neutral
2025-08$13.82$30.70$53.09 -47.7%Consider Short
2025-09$9.59$28.92$51.12 -50.7%Consider Short
2025-10$9.84$27.21$42.75 -53.6%Consider Short
2025-11$2.39$26.37$46.67 -55.1%Consider Short
2025-12$6.56$25.15$41.11 -57.1%Consider Short
2026-01$5.89$23.87$44.58 -59.3%Consider Short
2026-02$4.80$22.59$40.20 -61.5%Consider Short
2026-03$0.00$20.83$39.63 -64.5%Consider Short
2026-04$0.00$19.45$44.34 -66.9%Consider Short
2026-05$0.00$18.61$41.90 -68.3%Consider Short
2026-06$0.00$17.09$33.48 -70.9%Consider Short
2026-07$0.00$16.05$36.60 -72.6%Consider Short

Model forecasts like these are estimates with built-in uncertainty. They depend on current data and assumptions, which can change. Actual prices are not guaranteed.

Company Profile

Sector: Consumer Cyclical
Industry: Auto Parts
Market Cap: 3.36 B
Employees: 33,200

Business Overview

A brief overview of the company’s business activities. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. engages in the provision of automotive aftermarket parts in the United States and internationally. The company offers batteries and battery accessories; belts and hoses; brakes and brake pads; chassis parts; climate control parts; clutches and drive shafts; engines and engine parts; exhaust systems and parts; hub assemblies; ignition components and wire; radiators and cooling parts; starters and alternators; and steering and alignment parts. It also provides air conditioning chemicals and accessories; air fresheners; antifreeze and washer fluid; electrical wire and fuses; electronics; floor mats, seat covers and interior accessories; hand and specialty tools; lighting; performance parts; sealants, adhesives and compounds; tire repair accessories; vent shades, mirrors and exterior accessories; washes, waxes and cleaning supplies; and wiper blades. In addition, the company offers air filters; fuel and oil additives; fuel filters; grease and lubricants; motor oil; oil filters; part cleaners and treatments; and transmission fluid. Further, it provides battery and wiper installation; engine light scanning and checking; electrical system testing, including batteries, starters, and alternators; oil and battery recycling; and loaner tool program services. The company serves professional installers and do-it-yourself customers. It operates stores under the Advance Auto Parts and Carquest names. The company has stores in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canada; and independently owned Carquest branded stores in Mexico and the Caribbean Islands. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. was founded in 1929 and is based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Valuation Metrics

AAP demonstrates, with its Trailing P/E at N/A and Forward P/E at 20.85x, indicates a reasonably valued position. Meanwhile, its Price/Sales ratio of 0.38x and Price/Book of 1.53x show that the company trades at multiples that warrant attention. These metrics provide insight into market positioning.

From an enterprise value perspective, The enterprise value to revenue ratio of 0.65x indicates reasonable revenue-based valuation, and its the EV/EBITDA multiple of 22.41x suggests a potentially stretched valuation. These valuation metrics provide a comprehensive view of the company’s current market positioning.

Forward P/E20.85x
Price/Sales (TTM)$0.38
Price/Book (MRQ)$1.53
EV/Revenue (TTM)0.65x
EV/EBITDA (TTM)22.41x

Total Valuation

Although the market considers Advance Auto Parts, Inc. to be a key player in the Auto Parts industry with a 3.36 B market cap, its enterprise value is much higher at 5.77 B, with 2.41B of that value added by debt. Investors are confident about Advance Auto Parts, Inc.’s future earnings, but keep in mind the risk of that large amount of debt.

The valuation ratios tell an interesting story: at 0.65x revenue and 22.41x EBITDA, Advance Auto Parts, Inc. trades at a premium to many peers. This reflects the company’s strong market position and brand assets. But it also means the stock may have little room for error. The upcoming 2025-08-14 earnings report will be crucial in showing whether Advance Auto Parts, Inc.’s businesses can grow into this valuation, while the 2025-07-11 ex-dividend date serves as a reminder that Advance Auto Parts, Inc. still rewards shareholders even as it invests for growth. Essentially, you’re paying for quality – but quality doesn’t come cheap.

Market Cap3.36 B
Enterprise Value5.77 B
EV/Revenue (TTM)0.65x
EV/EBITDA (TTM)22.41x
Next Earnings Date2025-08-14
Ex-Dividend Date2025-07-11

Profitability Growth

An analysis of the key metrics in AAP’s margin performance suggests the company faces significant margin pressure. The company is successful in controlling its production costs, as shown by the gross margin of 42.05%, and it also profits well from its core operations, reflected in the -0.50% operating margin. A 2.91% EBITDA margin indicates AAP is capable of generating strong cash flow from its operations before accounting for financing and tax strategies. All things considered, AAP can hold onto around $-3.950 in net profit for every $1 of its revenue over the last twelve months. While the business’s revenue is increasing at a slow rate (-6.80%), investors should monitor if this pace can be sustained without eroding profit margins.

AAP’s 259.11 M in EBITDA and 3.75 B in gross profit indicate its raw earning power, while the -579.96 M in net income reveals how effectively it converts that power into bottom-line results. The company appears to be balancing its pursuit of growth with the need to maintain profitability. Despite healthy gross margins, there is a significant difference between the company’s gross and net margins (42.05% vs. -3.95%). This is likely due to high operating expenses, interest costs, or taxes, which are key areas for investors to watch. In the future, maintaining steady or improving margins will be critical. AAP needs to defend its pricing power and control operating costs, as this will help sustain profitability, especially if revenue growth moderates.

Profit Margin (TTM)-3.95%
Operating Margin (TTM)-0.50%
Gross Margin (TTM)42.05%
EBITDA Margin (TTM)2.91%
Revenue (TTM)8.91 B
Revenue Growth (YoY)-6.80%
Gross Profit (TTM)3.75 B
EBITDA (TTM)259.11 M
Net Income (TTM)-579.96 M
Earnings Growth (YoY)-40.40%

Analyst Insights

This section summarizes the collective view of professional analysts covering AAP. The consensus recommendation is ‘Hold’. This consensus is based on opinions from 20 analysts(s). The mean price target is $49.40, with individual targets ranging from $30.00 – $65.00. The average target ($49.40) suggests roughly -15.8% potential downside compared to the current price ($58.68). This provides a gauge of Wall Street sentiment regarding the stock’s potential.

Recommendation: Hold
Mean Target Price: $49.40
High Target Price: $65.00
Low Target Price: $30.00
Number of Analyst Opinions: 20

Financial Health

AAP’s financial data reveals several areas of concern that warrant caution. The ROE and ROA of -24.36% and -0.21%, respectively, reflects that the company is not very efficient with its capital, and such numbers are usually found in established, stable firms. The 1.86x Debt/Equity ratio (with 4.08 B in debt and 1.67 B in cash) points to the fact that AAP has taken on a considerable amount of debt to fuel its operations and growth. A major concern is the negative operating cash flow of -74.37 M (TTM), indicating the core business is currently using more cash than it generates.

The Current Ratio of 1.27x and Quick Ratio of 0.45x show a solid liquidity position, able to cover its short-term liabilities. Furthermore, AAP’s 921.39 M in levered free cash flow suggests it can still generate significant cash for shareholders even after meeting its financial obligations.

Return on Equity (ROE TTM)-24.36%
Return on Assets (ROA TTM)-0.21%
Debt/Equity (MRQ)1.86x
Total Cash (MRQ)1.67 B
Total Debt (MRQ)4.08 B
Current Ratio (MRQ)1.27x
Quick Ratio (MRQ)0.45x
Operating Cash Flow (TTM)-74.37 M
Levered Free Cash Flow (TTM)921.39 M

Historical Performance

In the recent trading period from July 11, 2025 to July 25, 2025, AAP’s stock price achieved a total return of -6.20%. The price fluctuated between a high of $70.00 and a low of $56.34. Average daily trading volume was approximately 2,688,553 shares.

Recent Trading Data

DateOpenHighLowCloseVolume
2025-07-25$59.90$60.25$56.34$58.683,071,900
2025-07-24$70.00$70.00$59.30$59.655,215,400
2025-07-23$65.69$68.26$65.11$66.503,762,500
2025-07-22$62.96$66.48$61.80$65.632,898,800
2025-07-21$61.88$63.62$60.50$62.802,008,800
2025-07-20$61.61$61.62$60.67$61.131,448,300
2025-07-19$61.61$61.62$60.67$61.131,448,300
2025-07-18$61.61$61.62$60.67$61.131,448,300
2025-07-17$62.77$63.46$60.91$61.082,804,000
2025-07-16$62.83$63.18$60.36$62.292,203,600
2025-07-15$62.82$62.96$61.39$62.401,953,000
2025-07-14$62.31$62.33$59.00$62.012,604,600
2025-07-13$58.84$63.26$58.69$62.563,153,600
2025-07-12$58.84$63.26$58.69$62.563,153,600
2025-07-11$58.84$63.26$58.69$62.563,153,600

Technical Analysis Summary

CURRENT PRICE: $58.68 | TREND: BULLISH BUT SHOWS SIGNS OF SLOWING

The stock has faced downward pressure, losing -1.13% in the last 15 days. We need to analyze the technicals to see if this is a buying opportunity or a warning of further declines. Let’s break down the key levels.

Trend Strength – Still Bullish

AAP is trading above its key moving averages, which confirms the uptrend remains intact. The 20-day SMA at $60.52 is acting as immediate dynamic support.

What This Means for Traders?

As long as AAP holds above the 20-day SMA ($60.52), the bullish momentum could continue. However, a rapid rise can push the stock far from its averages, increasing the risk of a pullback.

Momentum Check – Is Momentum Fading?

The RSI at 37.5 is in a neutral zone, indicating balanced momentum. At the same time, the MACD histogram is negative, suggesting that the upward momentum is beginning to fade.

Trading Strategy:

This neutral RSI reading provides flexibility. Watch for a decisive MACD crossover or a break of a key support/resistance level for the next directional clue.

Bollinger Bands – Testing Key Levels

The stock is trading near the middle of its Bollinger Bands (SMA20: $60.52), with the lower band at $53.24 offering the next level of support.

Key Levels to Watch:

  • Resistance: $70.00 (Recent High) → A breakout could push AAP higher.
  • Support: $60.52 (20-day SMA) → If this breaks, expect a test of $53.24.

Volume Trends – Checking for Conviction

Trading volume is near its recent average, providing neutral confirmation of the current price action.

Support & Resistance – The Trading Plan

Trading Plan:

  • ✅  If AAP holds above $60.52 → Bullish trend continues, next target $70.00.
  • ⚠️  If it breaks below $60.52 → Expect a dip toward $53.24.
  • 🛑  A drop below $53.24 → Could trigger a deeper correction to the 200-day SMA ($43.30).

Final Verdict – Should You Buy, Hold, or Sell?

Short-Term Traders: The trend is positive but monitor for signs of exhaustion. A neutral stance may be best until a clearer signal emerges from the MACD or volume.
Long-Term Investors: The long-term uptrend is valid as long as the price holds above the 200-day SMA ($43.30). A pullback to the 50-day SMA ($53.79) area could present a safer buying opportunity.
New Buyers: Avoid chasing the rally here. Wait for either a confirmed breakout above $70.00 with strong volume, or a pullback to the $60.52 area, which offers a better risk/reward entry.

Bottom Line: The technicals suggest the rally may be running out of steam short-term. While the long-term trend remains bullish, a correction seems plausible before the next major move. Trade carefully and wait for confirmation at key levels.

Short Selling Info

There is currently 9 M worth of short interest in AAP, and the short ratio (or days to cover) is 3.0x. This means that at the stock’s recent average trading volume, it would take around 3 days for all short positions to be covered. This moderate level indicates a balance between bearish bets and the market’s ability to absorb them without extreme volatility.

With 24.45% of the public float sold short, a high percentage of the float is being shorted, signaling significant bearish conviction from a portion of the market. This level has decreased recently from 10 M, suggesting a shift in bearish sentiment. With notable short interest, investors should be aware of potential volatility spikes, which could be triggered by news events that force short sellers to cover their positions.

Shares Short9 M
Short Ratio (Days To Cover)3.00x
Short % of Float24.45%
Shares Short (Prior Month)10 M
Short Date2025-07-15

Stock Price Statistics

When looking at the price range over the past year, the stock has seen a high of $70.00 and a low of $28.89. This wide gap tells us the stock has been through significant fluctuations, likely influenced by market sentiment or company-specific news. Currently, the 50-day moving average at $53.79 is above the 200-day moving average of $43.30. This ‘golden cross’ setup is often viewed as a bullish signal, indicating positive long-term momentum.

A beta of 1.07x suggests the stock’s movement is generally in line with the broader market. Combined with a high 30-day annualized volatility of 50.1%, it’s clear this stock sees frequent price swings. For investors, this means potential for gains, but also higher downside risk. These indicators matter when deciding position sizing or entry timing, especially if you’re managing a portfolio that balances stability with growth exposure.

52 Week High$70.00
52 Week Low$28.89
50 Day MA$52.07
200 Day MA$43.06
Beta1.07x
Volatility (30d Ann.)50.1% 📉

Dividends Shareholder Returns

Dividend Summary & Investor Implications

The company currently offers a $1.00 annual dividend per share, translating to a dividend yield of 1.76%—meaning for every $100 invested, shareholders receive $1.00 in dividends annually. This yield is below the 5-year average of 2.72%, suggesting that either the stock price has risen (reducing the yield) or dividend growth hasn’t kept pace with historical trends.

Key Observations & Analysis:

  • The payout ratio of 126.58% is high (warranting a check on cash flow sustainability), indicating the company uses only ~127% of its earnings to fund dividends. This leaves ample room for future increases or reinvestment in growth.
  • The very low trailing yield of 2.00% hints at a recent dividend initiation or a special, non-recurring payout, warranting further checks for consistency.
  • Investors must own the stock before the upcoming ex-dividend date of 2025-07-11 to receive the next dividend.
  • The last stock split (3:2 in 2005) is outdated and likely irrelevant to the current valuation.

Investor Takeaway:

  • Income Investors: The dividend appears sustainable, but investors should monitor earnings and cash flow to ensure the payout remains well-supported.
  • Growth Investors: The company maintains a balance between shareholder returns and reinvestment, appealing to a ‘growth and income’ strategy.
  • Watch For: Announcements of dividend hikes (which could bring the yield closer to its historical average) or significant stock price changes that would alter the yield.

Dividend Rate$1.00
Dividend Yield1.76%
Payout Ratio126.58%
5 Year Average Dividend Yield2.72%
Trailing Dividend Rate$1.00
Trailing Dividend Yield0.02%
Ex-Dividend Date2025-07-11
Last Split Date2005-09-26
Last Split Factor3:2

Risk Factors

Investing in AAP involves various risks. This section outlines potential factors identified through data analysis and general market considerations. It is not exhaustive.

  • ⚠️ High Volatility: Recent annualized volatility (50.1%) suggests significant price swings.
  • ⚠️ Overall market fluctuations can impact the stock.
  • ⚠️ Factors specific to the Auto Parts industry or Consumer Cyclical sector can affect performance.
  • ⚠️ Changes in macroeconomic conditions (interest rates, inflation) pose risks.
  • ⚠️ Unforeseen company events or news can impact the price.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top