Wall Street Zen Upgrades Reliance (NYSE:RS) to Buy

Analysts cite strong performance and growth potential for the industrial metals distributor.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:06am

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A high-contrast black and white close-up image of industrial metal processing equipment, conveying the tangible power and precision of Reliance's core business operations.An industrial metals distributor's heavy machinery and equipment reflect the physical strength and operational expertise powering its growth.Los Angeles Today

Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Reliance (NYSE:RS), a leading metals service center company, from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report issued on Saturday. The analysts cited Reliance's strong financial performance and growth potential as reasons for the upgrade.

Why it matters

Reliance is a major player in the industrial metals distribution industry, serving diverse end markets like energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and aerospace. An upgrade from a respected firm like Wall Street Zen could boost investor confidence and lead to increased demand for Reliance's stock.

The details

In their report, Wall Street Zen noted that Reliance has been the subject of several other recent research reports. KeyCorp initiated coverage on the stock with an 'overweight' rating and a $341 price target, while Wells Fargo raised their price target from $315 to $323 and maintained an 'equal weight' rating. However, BMO Capital Markets downgraded Reliance from 'outperform' to 'market perform' and lowered the price target from $340 to $320.

  • Reliance reported its Q4 2025 earnings on February 18, 2026.
  • Reliance paid a quarterly dividend of $1.25 per share on March 20, 2026 to shareholders of record as of March 6, 2026.

The players

Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co

A leading metals service center company that distributes and processes a broad array of metal products, serving diverse end markets.

Wall Street Zen

A financial research and analysis firm that upgraded Reliance's stock rating to 'buy'.

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What’s next

Investors will be closely watching Reliance's upcoming Q1 2026 earnings report, which the company has guided to be in the range of $4.50 to $4.70 per share.

The takeaway

The Wall Street Zen upgrade highlights Reliance's strong positioning in the industrial metals distribution market and its potential for continued growth, even as some analysts remain cautious on the stock's near-term outlook.