Block Positioned For Margin Expansion And EPS Growth: Goldman Sachs Analyst

Goldman Sachs analyst Will Nance reiterated a Buy rating on Block, Inc. (NYSE: SQ) with a price target of $102.

The analyst said that he hosted a call with Block investor relations, and the company remains committed to achieving Rule of 40 performance by 2026, with mid-teens gross profit growth, margin expansion, and GPV acceleration expected in 2025.

SQ's stock has surged post-election, benefiting from SMB exposure, pro-cyclical trends, deregulation, and crypto market involvement, alongside a previously attractive valuation, adds the analyst.

Nance is optimistic about its trajectory, with investments in go-to-market strategies and products likely to boost Seller results, while Cash App continues to lead as a diversified U.S. consumer fintech asset with strong growth potential.

The analyst's bull-bear analysis of 2026 GAAP EPS shows SQ is positioned for strong fundamentals, supporting potential multiple expansion.

In the Bear case, Nance estimates GAAP operating expense growth of around 6%, leading to Non-GAAP margins of approximately 26% after amortization adjustments.

This results in projected GAAP and Non-GAAP EPS of ~$3.46 and ~$3.74, respectively, adds the analyst.

In the Bull case, the analyst assume GAAP operating expense growth of about 8%, reflecting increased spending on go-to-market initiatives.

After amortization adjustments, Non-GAAP margins are expected to reach 28%, with projected GAAP and Non-GAAP EPS of ~$4.17 and ~$4.46, respectively, adds the analyst.

Investors can gain exposure to the stock via VanEck Digital Transformation ETF (NYSE: DAPP) and ARK Fintech Innovation ETF (NYSE: ARKF).

Price Action: SQ shares are up 0.37% at $87.62 at the last check Thursday.