SPGI - S&P Global gets Outperform rating at Baird on potential to mimic 'growing annuity'

Baird analyst Jeffrey Meuler starts coverage of S&P Global ([[SPGI]] -0.4%) with an Outperform ratings as the pending merger with IHS Markit ([[INFO]] -0.2%) "has broad growth drivers" that could generate financial results "that look like a growing annuity."Meuler cites SPGI's "best-in-class margin expansion track record." Furthermore, pro forma SPGI-INFO appears to have "ample margin expansion potential."Expects significant stock buybacks given free cash flow and a "substantially underleveraged balance sheet at merger close."The Baird analyst's rating contrasts with the Neutral Quant rating and jibes with the average Wall Street analyst rating of Bullish (6 Very Bullish, 3 Bullish, 1 Neutral, 1 Bearish).SA contributor Leo Nelissen calls SPGI the "perfect dividend growth stock."

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S&P Global gets Outperform rating at Baird on potential to mimic 'growing annuity'