We recently compiled a list of the 8 Best Fertilizer Stocks To Buy Now. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM) stands against the other fertilizer stocks.

An Overview of the Fertilizer Industry

The fertilizer industry is a crucial sector in agriculture that focuses on the production and distribution of substances that enhance plant growth. By supplying necessary nutrients, fertilizers help improve crop yields and quality, which are essential for feeding the growing global population.

The industry has evolved significantly over time, with modern practices relying heavily on chemically manufactured fertilizers to support large-scale farming and meet the global demand for food. According to Mordor Intelligence, the global fertilizer market is estimated to have reached a value of $381.7 billion in 2024. Looking forward, the market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.99% during 2024-2030 to reach $541.2 billion by ​the end of the forecast period.

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There is a strong sense of optimism within the industry. The Fertilizer Institute’s 2023 Industry Trends Survey highlighted a positive outlook within the fertilizer sector, with many respondents expressing confidence in future growth. About 40% of those surveyed believe that market conditions have improved over the past five years, despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions. Companies attribute their resilience to strategic practices such as precommitment purchases and careful planning. Nearly 80% of participants are optimistic about their businesses being equally or more profitable in the next five years.

The fertilizer industry is currently experiencing several key trends that are shaping its future. Advances in technology are transforming how fertilizers are produced and applied. Innovations such as precision agriculture, which uses data analytics and sensors, help farmers optimize fertilizer usage based on specific soil conditions and crop needs.

Additionally, there is a growing demand for fertilizers that offer more nutrients while reducing their environmental impact. The emphasis on maximizing the efficiency of fertilizer application to promote sustainable farming practices is increasing, which is driving the development of new and innovative solutions.

On August 13, CNBC reported that Windfall Bio, a California-based startup, is addressing methane emissions using "mems," or methane-eating microbes. These microbes naturally consume methane and convert it into fertilizer. This innovative approach helps reduce harmful methane from sources like agriculture, landfills, and oil production. Farmers can use the fertilizer produced, while companies generating waste methane can sell it back to Windfall, creating a new revenue stream.

These trends indicate a dynamic shift in the fertilizer industry, balancing the need for increased food production with environmental sustainability and innovation.

Methodology

To compile our list of the 8 best fertilizer stocks to buy now, we used the Finviz and Yahoo stock screeners to find the largest fertilizer companies. We also reviewed our own rankings and consulted various online resources to compile a list of the best fertilizer stocks.

We carefully verified our list to remove any companies that can not be classified as fertilizer stocks. From an initial pool of over 15 fertilizer stocks, we focused on the stocks that analysts believe possess the greatest potential for growth. Finally, we ranked the 8 best fertilizer stocks to buy now based on their average price target upside potential according to analysts, as of November 18, 2024.

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A laboratory technician pouring a specialty blend of industrial chemicals into a beaker.

Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM)

Average Upside Potential According to Analysts: 34.23%

Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM) is a Chilean company that offers a variety of products for different industries, including agriculture, health, nutrition, and renewable energy. The company is well-known for its fertilizers, particularly potassium nitrate and sodium nitrate, which are essential for enhancing crop yields. Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM) also produces lithium and iodine.

In the first half of 2024, SQM reported revenues of $2.37 billion, a decrease from $4.31 billion in the same quarter last year. Despite this drop, the company experienced strong sales growth in its lithium, iodine, and fertilizer segments, with fertilizer demand increasing by over 20% compared to last year.

Although Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A.’s (NYSE:SQM) performance in its recent quarter was less than ideal, it has demonstrated resilience with a compound annual growth rate of 10% in revenue over the past decade.

Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM) is one of the best fertilizer stocks to buy now. Analysts are optimistic about SQM’s future. The 12-month median price target for the stock set by analysts indicates a potential upside of 34% from the current stock price.

With ongoing demand for both lithium and fertilizers expected to rise, Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM) presents a compelling investment opportunity.

Overall SQM ranks 2nd on our list of the best fertilizer stocks to buy. While we acknowledge the potential of SQM as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than SQM but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

 

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.