December 15, 2010 9:38 AM EST
Deutsche 
initiates coverage on Sociedad Quimica y Minera (NYSE:
) with a Buy rating and a price target of $63. The firm feels that the company has the right formula for growth with forecast earnings CAGR of 20% during 2010-2015. They feel that SQM's continuous expansion in the of potassium chloride and potassium sulfate markets, continuing cost-cutting efforts, and recovery in global fertilizer demand will be the major drivers for future growth.
Deutsche also mentions that SQM controls approximately 30%of the lithium market share. The firm states that, "We expect strong growth in lithium demand in coming years as hybrid electrical vehicles go mainstream. Also, a new application for SQM’s nitrate production was developed recently – new solar energy plants to store thermal energy. The new technology uses nitrates for more reliable solar energy production, without the need for diesel or coal backup."
For more ratings news on Sociedad Quimica y Minera
and for the rating history of Sociedad Quimica y Minera
.
Shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera closed at $52.52 yesterday, with a 52 week range of $30.98-$52.71.
