Microvast Holdings announces departure of chief financial officer
Monday, DA Davidson’s Financial Institutions Team updated clients on the outlook for bank stocks in light of recent "Liberation Day" tariff announcements. The team noted that the tariff news has prompted a sharp market downturn and increased the risk of a recession. In their 1Q25E Preview, the analysts had already anticipated greater economic challenges, and with the rapid developments, they believe a closer examination of certain bank stocks is warranted. The market’s reaction is evident in stocks like SouthState Corporation (SSB), which has seen an 8.2% decline in the past week, with its shares currently trading at $78.73.
The analysts at DA Davidson emphasized specific banks that they expect to outperform in the event of a substantially weaker economy. They recommend focusing on banks with low credit risk profiles, identifying FNB, PB, SSB, and WTFC as such entities. According to InvestingPro, SSB maintains a "FAIR" overall financial health score and has demonstrated strong dividend reliability, having raised its dividend for 13 consecutive years. These recommendations come as the market responds to the potential economic implications of the newly announced tariffs.
DA Davidson’s Financial Institutions Team had previously provided an alternative economic scenario in their 1Q25E Preview, which considered the possibility of heightened economic headwinds. This scenario is now gaining more attention as the market selloff suggests investors are bracing for tougher economic conditions. SSB’s current valuation metrics, including a P/E ratio of 11.3 and analyst consensus indicating potential upside, suggest the stock may be undervalued according to InvestingPro’s Fair Value analysis.
The bank stocks highlighted by DA Davidson are considered to be better positioned to withstand economic turbulence, primarily due to their lower exposure to credit risk. The analysts suggest that these stocks could offer some resilience in a downturn, which is becoming a more pressing concern for investors following the tariff news.
In conclusion, DA Davidson’s update serves as a guide for investors navigating the uncertain economic landscape following the "Liberation Day" tariff announcements. The firm’s focus on low credit risk banks is a strategic move to identify stocks that may have a defensive edge in a weaker economy.
In other recent news, South State (NYSE:SSB) Corporation reported robust financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024, surpassing both earnings and revenue forecasts. The company achieved an earnings per share of $1.93, exceeding the anticipated $1.66, and revenue reached $450.32 million, beating the forecast of $435.94 million. South State also completed its acquisition of Independent (LON:IOG) Financial, which is expected to enhance its market position. In related developments, Citi analyst Benjamin Gerlinger adjusted South State’s stock price target from $128.00 to $123.00, maintaining a "Buy" rating, following the company’s branch sale-leaseback transaction and securities restructuring. Additionally, South State received the Federal Reserve Board’s approval for its 2025 stock repurchase program, allowing the repurchase of up to 3 million shares. Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James analyst Michael Rose upgraded South State’s stock rating from Outperform to Strong Buy, citing confidence in the bank’s strategic acquisition and credit protection measures. These recent developments reflect a period of strategic growth and financial strength for South State Corporation.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.