Barclays begins coverage on Ametek with 'equal weight' rating

** Barclays initiates coverage on industrial tools maker Ametek AME.N with an "equal weight" rating and a PT of $200

** The PT shows a premium of 6.7% from stock's last close

** Barclays says co's strong growth model and execution framework make its M&A strategy more effective than peers, and its valuation reflects its growth and margin outlook

** Notes despite headwinds such as weak demand, inflation, tariffs and margin-dilutive acquisitions, AME has steadily expanded operating margins by ~50bps annually over five years, driven by stronger gross margins and cost efficiency

** 11 of 19 brokerages rate the stock "buy" or higher, 8 "hold"; their median PT is $211.50 - data compiled by LSEG

** As of last close, stock had risen 4% YTD