ACEL Price Update: Down 1.4% YTD – What’s Next for Investors?

ACEL Price Update: Down 1.4% YTD – What's Next for Investors?

Metrics Summary

💰 Current Price

$12.74
Live Market Price

🎯 Price Targets & Forecasts

1-Month Forecast:

$12.20

📉 -4.3%

1-Year Forecast:

$12.56

📉 -1.4%

Analyst Mean Target:

$16.00

📈 +25.6%

📈 Trend & Momentum

Trend:

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

65.6 (Neutral) ⚖️
MACD:

➡️ Neutral Trend (0.03)

📊 Key Technical Levels

Above SMA 50:

✅ $11.87
Above SMA 200:

✅ $11.18
52-Week Range:

📏 $9.02 – $13.28

⚡ Volatility

Volatility (30d Ann.):

20.1% 🌊
Beta (vs. Market):

1.24xx 🎢
(High Sensitivity)
Green Days (30d):

18/30 (60%) 🟢

🏢 Ownership

Institutional Ownership:

72.19% 🏛️
Short % of Float:

2.46% 😐
(Moderate Bets)

Right now, ACEL’s stock is trading at $12.74. The technical indicators are showing a bullish pattern because the price is holding relative to both the 50-day ($11.87) and 200-day ($11.18) moving averages. This suggests the stock has been gaining momentum recently. However, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 65.6 is Neutral—neither overbought nor oversold—while the MACD indicator shows a neutral trend, meaning there could be some minor pullbacks before the next upward move.

Over the past year, ACEL’s stock has traded between $9.02 and $13.28, which tells us two things: First, the stock has recovered significantly from its lows. Second, the current price is near the higher end of that range, meaning big swings are less likely unless something major happens. Analysts expect modest growth ahead, with a 1-year target of $12.56 (-1.4%) and an average consensus target of $16.00 (+25.6%). Plus, with 72.19% institutional ownership and very low short interest (2.46%), it seems most big investors are betting on the company’s long-term success rather than a decline.

Detailed Forecast Table

Here’s the breakdown of the month forecast for ACEL ($9.05 to $16.45 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), ACEL’s price is projected by the model to fluctuate between approximately $9.05 and $16.45.

Forecast uncertainty appears steady, with the price range ($12.26 – $12.26 to $9.45 – $16.45) showing little change over the horizon.

Month (Period)Min. PriceAvg. PriceMax. PricePotential ROI vs Current ($12.74)Model Signal
2025-07$12.26$12.26$12.26 -3.8%Consider Short
2025-08$10.69$11.94$13.06 -6.3%Consider Short
2025-09$11.35$12.20$13.29 -4.3%Consider Short
2025-10$11.20$12.20$13.34 -4.3%Consider Short
2025-11$11.12$12.19$13.18 -4.3%Consider Short
2025-12$11.42$12.23$13.27 -4.0%Consider Short
2026-01$10.71$12.27$13.62 -3.7%Consider Short
2026-02$11.30$12.40$13.72 -2.6%Consider Short
2026-03$10.97$12.46$14.67 -2.2%Hold/Neutral
2026-04$10.24$12.20$14.49 -4.2%Consider Short
2026-05$10.03$12.33$15.20 -3.2%Consider Short
2026-06$9.05$12.46$15.80 -2.2%Hold/Neutral
2026-07$9.45$12.56$16.45 -1.4%Hold/Neutral

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: Gambling
Market Cap: 1.09 B
Employees: 1,500

Business Overview

A brief overview of the company’s business activities. Accel Entertainment, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a distributed gaming and local entertainment operator in the United States. It engages in the installation, maintenance, and operation of gaming terminals; redemption devices that disburse winnings and contain automated teller machine (ATM) functionality; and other amusement devices in authorized non-casino locations, such as restaurants, bars, taverns, convenience stores, liquor stores, truck stops, and grocery stores. The company also designs and manufactures gaming terminals and related equipment, as well as offers turnkey and full-service gaming solutions to bars, restaurants, convenience stores, truck stops, and fraternal and veteran establishments. In addition, it operates casionos; and stand-alone ATMs in gaming and non-gaming locations, as well as amusement devices, including jukeboxes, dartboards, pool tables, and other entertainment related equipment. The company is headquartered in Burr Ridge, Illinois.

Valuation Metrics

ACEL demonstrates, with its Trailing P/E at 26.21x and Forward P/E at 14.94x, suggests an attractive valuation opportunity. This suggests potential earnings growth expectations Meanwhile, its Price/Sales ratio of 0.87x and Price/Book of 4.21x 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 1.13x indicates reasonable revenue-based valuation, and its the EV/EBITDA multiple of 8.40x suggests reasonable earnings-based valuation. These valuation metrics provide a comprehensive view of the company’s current market positioning.

Trailing P/E26.21x
Forward P/E14.94x
Price/Sales (TTM)$0.87
Price/Book (MRQ)$4.21
EV/Revenue (TTM)1.13x
EV/EBITDA (TTM)8.40x

Total Valuation

Although the market considers Accel Entertainment, Inc. to be a key player in the Gambling industry with a 1.09 B market cap, its enterprise value is much higher at 1.40 B, with 310.00M of that value added by debt. Investors are confident about Accel Entertainment, Inc.’s future earnings, but keep in mind the risk of that large amount of debt.

The valuation ratios tell an interesting story: at 1.13x revenue and 8.40x EBITDA, Accel Entertainment, Inc. trades at a valuation that reflects its market position. 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 2025-08-05 earnings report will be crucial in showing whether Accel Entertainment, Inc.’s businesses can grow into this valuation. Essentially, you’re paying for quality – but quality doesn’t come cheap.

Market Cap1.09 B
Enterprise Value1.40 B
EV/Revenue (TTM)1.13x
EV/EBITDA (TTM)8.40x
Next Earnings Date2025-08-05

Profitability Growth

An analysis of the key metrics in ACEL’s margin performance shows the company has solid control over its costs and prices. The company is successful in controlling its production costs, as shown by the gross margin of 30.35%, and it also profits well from its core operations, reflected in the 7.96% operating margin. A 13.44% EBITDA margin indicates ACEL is capable of generating strong cash flow from its operations before accounting for financing and tax strategies. All things considered, ACEL can hold onto around $3.390 in net profit for every $1 of its revenue over the last twelve months. While the business’s revenue is increasing at an aggressive rate (7.30%), investors should monitor if this pace can be sustained without eroding profit margins.

ACEL’s 168.44 M in EBITDA and 380.37 M in gross profit indicate its raw earning power, while the 42.48 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 (30.35% vs. 3.39%). 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. ACEL needs to defend its pricing power and control operating costs, as this will help sustain profitability, especially if revenue growth moderates.

Profit Margin (TTM)3.39%
Operating Margin (TTM)7.96%
Gross Margin (TTM)30.35%
EBITDA Margin (TTM)13.44%
Revenue (TTM)1.25 B
Revenue Growth (YoY)7.30%
Gross Profit (TTM)380.37 M
EBITDA (TTM)168.44 M
Net Income (TTM)42.48 M
Earnings Growth (YoY)93.20%

Analyst Insights

Here’s the consensus from Wall Street analysts on ACEL. The average recommendation is ‘Strong Buy’. 3 analyst(s) contributed to this consensus view. Targets average $16.00 (within a range of $16.00 – $16.00). The average target ($16.00) suggests roughly 25.6% potential upside compared to the current price ($12.74). This reflects overall analyst sentiment on the stock’s outlook.

Recommendation: Strong Buy
Mean Target Price: $16.00
High Target Price: $16.00
Low Target Price: $16.00
Number of Analyst Opinions: 3

Financial Health

ACELs financial data clearly shows that strengths and weaknesses can appear together. The ROE and ROA of 18.26% and 6.46%, respectively, reflect a highly efficient use of capital, often seen in fast-growing firms. The 2.24x Debt/Equity ratio (with 588.59 M in debt and 276.96 M in cash) points to the fact that ACEL has taken on a considerable amount of debt to fuel its operations and growth. Even with its debt, the company’s ability to bring in 137.20 M in operating cash flow (TTM) proves that its core business can steadily produce cash, which is a significant strength.

The Current Ratio of 2.42x and Quick Ratio of 2.21x show a solid liquidity position, able to cover its short-term liabilities. Furthermore, ACEL’s 68.64 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)18.26%
Return on Assets (ROA TTM)6.46%
Debt/Equity (MRQ)2.24x
Total Cash (MRQ)276.96 M
Total Debt (MRQ)588.59 M
Current Ratio (MRQ)2.42x
Quick Ratio (MRQ)2.21x
Operating Cash Flow (TTM)137.20 M
Levered Free Cash Flow (TTM)68.64 M

Historical Performance

In the recent trading period from July 11, 2025 to July 25, 2025, ACEL’s stock price achieved a total return of +4.77%. The price fluctuated between a high of $12.92 and a low of $12.02. Average daily trading volume was approximately 290,733 shares.

Recent Trading Data

DateOpenHighLowCloseVolume
2025-07-25$12.48$12.76$12.40$12.74264,800
2025-07-24$12.69$12.74$12.40$12.43250,100
2025-07-23$12.76$12.84$12.58$12.71248,400
2025-07-22$12.65$12.92$12.62$12.77358,300
2025-07-21$12.24$12.91$12.16$12.64799,500
2025-07-20$12.24$12.27$12.10$12.19288,900
2025-07-19$12.24$12.27$12.10$12.19288,900
2025-07-18$12.24$12.27$12.10$12.19288,900
2025-07-17$12.09$12.39$12.09$12.27227,700
2025-07-16$12.13$12.22$12.03$12.04217,700
2025-07-15$12.27$12.34$12.02$12.12265,100
2025-07-14$12.11$12.26$12.11$12.26185,000
2025-07-13$12.35$12.35$12.11$12.16225,900
2025-07-12$12.35$12.35$12.11$12.16225,900
2025-07-11$12.35$12.35$12.11$12.16225,900

Technical Analysis Summary

CURRENT PRICE: $12.74 | TREND: BULLISH

The stock has been on a notable run, gaining +2.49% in just 15 days, but several technical signs suggest we should be cautious about chasing this momentum. Let’s break down what the charts are telling us and how we can position ourselves.

Trend Strength – Still Bullish

ACEL is trading above its key moving averages, which confirms the uptrend remains intact. The 20-day SMA at $12.30 is acting as immediate dynamic support.

What This Means for Traders?

As long as ACEL holds above the 20-day SMA ($12.30), 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 65.6 is in a neutral zone, indicating balanced momentum. At the same time, the MACD histogram is positive, confirming the upward momentum is still in play.

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 currently pressing against the upper Bollinger Band at $12.77, which often acts as short-term resistance.

Key Levels to Watch:

  • Resistance: $12.92 (Recent High) → A breakout could push ACEL higher.
  • Support: $12.30 (20-day SMA) → If this breaks, expect a test of $11.84.

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 ACEL holds above $12.30 → Bullish trend continues, next target $12.92.
  • ⚠️  If it breaks below $12.30 → Expect a dip toward $11.84.
  • 🛑  A drop below $11.84 → Could trigger a deeper correction to the 200-day SMA ($11.18).

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 ($11.18). A pullback to the 50-day SMA ($11.87) area could present a safer buying opportunity.
New Buyers: Avoid chasing the rally here. Wait for either a confirmed breakout above $12.92 with strong volume, or a pullback to the $12.30 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 1 M worth of short interest in ACEL, and the short ratio (or days to cover) is 5.4x. This means that at the stock’s recent average trading volume, it would take several 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 2.46% of the public float sold short, a moderate percentage of the stock is being shorted, showing some bearish sentiment but not an extreme level. This level has remained relatively stable compared to last month’s value of 1 M, suggesting a shift in bearish sentiment. Because the amount of investors shorting is generally low, the market tends to feel more confident and the risks of price swings from sudden short-covering activities are reduced.

Shares Short1 M
Short Ratio (Days To Cover)5.40x
Short % of Float2.46%
Shares Short (Prior Month)1 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 $13.28 and a low of $9.02. This moderate gap indicates the stock has experienced notable price swings over the year. Currently, the 50-day moving average at $11.87 is above the 200-day moving average of $11.18. This ‘golden cross’ setup is often viewed as a bullish signal, indicating positive long-term momentum.

The stock carries a beta of 1.24x, which means it tends to move more sharply than the broader market—about 24% more volatile. Combined with a moderate 30-day annualized volatility of 20.1%, 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$13.28
52 Week Low$9.02
50 Day MA$11.82
200 Day MA$11.28
Beta1.24x
Volatility (30d Ann.)20.1% 📉

Dividends Shareholder Returns

Dividend Summary & Investor Implications

Based on available data, ACEL does not currently pay a regular dividend. This suggests the company may be prioritizing reinvesting its earnings back into the business for growth.

Payout Ratio0.00%
Trailing Dividend Rate$0.00
Trailing Dividend Yield0.00%

Risk Factors

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

  • ⚠️ Overall market fluctuations can impact the stock.
  • ⚠️ Factors specific to the Gambling 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.

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