Attention turns to the Sage share price as we approach Thursday’s trading update. Here are some key levels to consider ahead of the data.
Sage Group Plc (LON: SGE) finished Monday’s trading session at 700.40p, down 4.40p (-0.01%)
The UK accounting software firm has been a safe pair of hands this year. The Sage share price has returned 22% so far in 2021. Furthermore, Sage Group has added more than 40% from the March 2020 low of 496.40p.
However, investors hope this week’s second-quarter trading update will propel the Sage share price even higher.
The share price is currently trading around 6% higher than the median 12-month consensus price target of 660.00p. However, the 22 analysts covering the shares have given 1-year forecasts ranging from 520.00p to as high as 870.00p.
Of the 22, 8 have given Sage a hold rating, 5 are at underperform, 2 predict the shares will outperform, whilst 7 have issued a buy rating.
With the city divided on the group’s prospects, this week’s data becomes even more interesting. Especially when considering the technical picture.
Share price forecast
The daily chart shows Sage Group has been trending higher in a narrowing wedge pattern since November 2020. Two clear trend lines define the top and lower edges of the wedge.
Currently, the bottom of the channel is visible at 675.00p and should be viewed as significant price support. Additionally, the 50-day moving average at 677.00p lends to the validity of this support level.
Above the market, the top end of the channel offers resistance 715.00p. Furthermore, a descending trend line from July 2019’s all-time high of 783.20p is seen at 726.00p.
Therefore, the price is hemmed in by two opposing trend lines. If Sage climbs above 726.00p, the bulls will likely aim for the 783.20p record price.
However, should the Sage share price fall below the rising trend line at 675.00p, the 100 DMA at 645.80p comes into play.
With this in mind, Thursday’s trading update could be the deciding factor in which of the analysts have called it right.
Don’t miss a beat! Follow us on Telegram and Twitter.
Sage share price chart (Daily)
Follow Elliott on Twitter.