Australia's Ventia Services hits record high as brokerages hike PT on upbeat outlook

** Shares of infrastructure service provider Ventia Services Group VNT.AX rise 3.4% to A$5.46, hitting a lifetime high

** Stock among top gainers on the broader benchmark index .AXJO

** Morningstar raises fair value estimate for infrastructure service provider by 8% to A$5.40, noting improved FY25 margins and growth outlook

** Co expects FY25 underlying net profit after tax and amortisation (uNPATA) to grow 10-12% over FY24

** Morningstar raises midcycle EBITDA margin forecast to 7.5% from 7.2%

** Says co well placed to capitalise on strong market trends, including high urban densities, and energy transition-driven investments

** Macquarie raises target price to A$5.55 from A$5.42, retains "Outperform" tag

** Also lifts EPS forecast by 0.8%, 0.1% and 2.6% for fiscals 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively

** Macquarie calls 1H result "mixed", but sees FY upgrade "pleasing and expression of confidence in outlook"

** Adds brokerage views stock as a candidate for potential ASX100 inclusion

** Stock up 52.2% YTD, including the day's moves

($1 = 1.5394 Australian dollars)