Roper Technologies receives 'buy' rating as Stifel starts coverage

Brokerage Stifel starts coverage on software firm Roper Technologies ROP.O with "buy" rating and PT of $685

New PT represents 17.5% upside to the stock's last close

Brokerage sees upside to ROP's diversified business and its specialized software products across various niche markets

"We believe that Roper's focus on software will continue to drive increased organic growth as it leverages advanced technologies to enhance product offerings, streamline operations and expand its customer base" - Stifel analysts

11 of 18 brokerages rate stock "buy" or higher, 6 rate "hold", 1 rate sell; their median PT is $645 as per data compiled by LSEG

ROP up 12.1% YTD