Is AngloGold Ashanti plc (AU) the Best Performing Large Cap Stock to Buy According to Analysts?

AngloGold Ashanti plc (AU), a prominent gold mining company, has garnered significant attention from analysts in recent months, with a mix of bullish and bearish ratings. As of 2025, four analysts have provided ratings for AU, showcasing a spectrum of viewpoints. This article explores whether AU is the best performing large cap stock to buy according to analysts, based on the provided information.

Analyst Ratings and Price Targets

In the latest quarter, AU received a total of 3 bullish, 1 indifferent, and 0 bearish ratings from analysts. The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.

| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |

Analysts have recently evaluated AU and provided 12-month price targets. The average target is $31.25, accompanied by a high estimate of $34.00 and a low estimate of $26.00. Surpassing the previous average price target of $28.50, the current average has increased by 9.65%.



Key Insights from Analyst Actions

The standing of AU among financial experts is revealed through an in-depth exploration of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.

| Analyst | Analyst Firm | Action Taken | Rating | Current Price Target | Prior Price Target |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Raj Ray | BMO Capital | Raises | Outperform | $34.00 | $28.00 |
| Patrick Jones | JP Morgan | Lowers | Overweight | $32.00 | $33.00 |
| Patrick Jones | JP Morgan | Raises | Overweight | $33.00 | $31.00 |
| Tanya Jakusconek | Scotiabank | Raises | Sector Perform | $26.00 | $22.00 |

Financial Performance and Market Position

AU's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, indicating a dominant size relative to its peers and suggesting a strong market position. The company's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy, with a growth rate of approximately 17.37%. However, when compared to others in the Materials sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.

AU's net margin is below industry averages, suggesting potential challenges in maintaining strong profitability. With a net margin of 26.86%, the company may face hurdles in effective cost management. On the other hand, AU's ROE and ROA are standout performers, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 8.74% and ROA of 4.32%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.



Conclusion

Based on the provided information, AU appears to be a strong contender among large cap stocks, with a mix of bullish and bearish ratings from analysts. The company's impressive financial performance, particularly its ROE and ROA, coupled with its dominant market position, makes it an attractive investment option. However, investors should consider the company's challenges in maintaining strong profitability and its debt management, as well as the potential risks and uncertainties in the gold mining sector. By staying informed about AU's developments and the broader market trends, investors can make well-considered decisions regarding their investments in AU.