Macquarie tips more than 75% upside for this ASX mining stock

This miner could be cheap as chips according to the broker.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points
  • Macquarie is bullish on Sayona Mining, now Elevra Lithium Limited, citing its brownfield expansion plans at the NAL operation and improved production forecasts.
  • The broker has retained an outperform rating with a $5.50 price target, implying a 76% upside potential from the current share price of $3.12.
  • Macquarie anticipates that productivity improvements and favourable lithium market conditions could help the company achieve a break-even cost position.

Sayona Mining Ltd (ASX: SYA) shares, soon to be known as Elevra Lithium Limited (ASX: ELV) shares, could be dirt cheap at current levels.

That's the view of analysts at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), who are bullish on the lithium miner following the completion of the ASX mining stock's merger with Piedmont Lithium.

A man has a surprised and relieved expression on his face.

Image source: Getty Images

What is the broker saying about this ASX mining stock?

Macquarie highlights that Sayona Mining has released its brownfield expansion plans for the NAL operation. This has led to the broker updating its production and cost estimates. It said:

SYA has released NAL brownfield expansion plans which will bring forward production and deliver improved costs performance, which was highlighted as a potential positive event in our prior note (link). We have lifted our NAL output estimate to ~280kt per year post FY32E reflecting its planned brownfield expansion project. We have also adjusted our AISC in the medium-to-longer term with our long-term (real) costs at US$698/ t which is ~3% above scoping study guidance of US$681/t.

In the near term, Macquarie was pleased to see that management is guiding to stronger than expected production in FY 2026. It adds:

The company has provided FY26 guidance for the first time with production and shipments both at 195-200kt, which is within 3% of VA consensus (small samples) but 7% above MQe. Unit costs of A$1,175-1,275/t (US$765-830/t) came in 2% ahead of MQ estimates and is largely in line with current spot market price of US$810/t. Capex guidance for FY26 is A$40m.

Big potential returns

According to the note, the broker has retained its outperform rating on the ASX mining stock with a $5.50 price target. This new price target reflects adjustments following the merger transaction and reverse split.

Based on its current share price of $3.12, this implies potential upside of 76% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its buy recommendation, the broker said:

Outperform: With continued productivity improvements, SYA could reach a break-even cost position assisted by improving lithium market conditions in the near term. The Tranche 1 Options potentially also unlock additional capital for the company to shore up its cash position.

Valuation: Our target price is now at A$5.50ps post the merger transaction and reverse split. Valuation method unchanged with 75/25 blend of NPV & 4.0x EV/EBITDA. Catalysts: Permitting update for NAL brownfield expansion.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

Australian dollar notes in the pocket of a man's jeans, symbolising dividends.
Opinions

Why buying ASX shares in March could supercharge your wealth

I think there are opportunities galore right now.

Read more »

A woman gives two fist pumps with a big smile as she learns of her windfall, sitting at her desk.
Share Market News

Why these Vanguard ETFs could be best buys in 2026

From global markets to emerging Asia, these Vanguard ETFs provide diversified exposure for investors in 2026.

Read more »

A little boy in flying goggles and wings rides high on his mum's back with blue skies above.
Opinions

Why I think now is a great time to buy Qantas shares for long-term passive income

Qantas shares are now trading on a fully franked dividend yield of 5.5%.

Read more »

Red line going down on an ASX market chart, symbolising a falling share price.
Opinions

Worried about an ASX share market correction? I'm following Warren Buffett's advice

The market is going through a volatility bump.

Read more »

Winning woman smiles and holds big cup while losing woman looks unhappy with small cup.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a rough end to a tough week.

Read more »

Graphic showing yellow arrow above vertical columns indicating a rising share price
Share Market News

$10,000 invested in this ASX ETF a month ago is now worth $14,500

Investors in this ASX ETF are sitting on very appealing short-term gains.

Read more »

Businessman looks with one eye through magnifying glass.
Share Market News

Pulse check: How are the top 10 ASX 200 shares performing amid a new war?

What's happening with CBA, BHP, Wesfarmers, Woodside, Telstra, and other large-cap shares?

Read more »

Happy man working on his laptop.
Broker Notes

Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy right now

Here's why brokers are feeling bullish about these three shares this week.

Read more »