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Investing.com - Keefe, Bruyette & Woods downgraded Hancock Whitney (NASDAQ:HWC) from Outperform to Market Perform while raising its price target to $63.00 from $62.00.
The downgrade comes as Hancock Whitney shares have risen 33% since April, outperforming the KRX index by 8% during that period and by 19% year-to-date. InvestingPro data shows the stock trading near its 52-week high of $62.40, with strong momentum across multiple timeframes.
According to Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, the bank’s valuation has increased from 1.1x tangible book value and 8x 2026 estimated earnings per share to 1.5x tangible book value and 11x 2026 estimated earnings per share, now trading more in line with the KRX index.
The research firm cited improved revenue outlook, high profitability levels (1.3-1.4% return on assets and 13-14% return on tangible common equity), strong capital position (10% tangible common equity), and solid reserves (1.4%) as positive factors for Hancock Whitney.
Despite these strengths and an expected 15% growth in tangible book value for 2025, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods noted that Hancock Whitney’s projected pre-provision net revenue and earnings per share growth rate for 2026 is only 2%, which is lower than peers, limiting further valuation upside.
In other recent news, Hancock Whitney Corporation reported strong first-quarter 2025 earnings, with an earnings per share (EPS) of $1.38, surpassing the forecast of $1.29. However, the company’s revenue slightly missed expectations, coming in at $367.5 million against a forecast of $367.92 million. Analysts have provided mixed updates on Hancock Whitney’s stock outlook; Piper Sandler raised the price target to $70, citing strong pre-provision net revenue and fee revenues, while DA Davidson and Keefe, Bruyette & Woods both lowered their targets to $62, maintaining Buy and Outperform ratings, respectively. Despite a deceleration in growth, Hancock Whitney remains focused on strategic initiatives such as recruiting and financial center expansion, with expectations of positive net loan growth in the second quarter. The bank also announced the election of Albert J. Williams, a former Chevron (NYSE:CVX) executive, to its board of directors, highlighting his extensive leadership experience. Additionally, Hancock Whitney is continuing its expansion efforts with the acquisition of Sable Trust Company, which is expected to contribute to future earnings. These developments reflect Hancock Whitney’s ongoing efforts to navigate current market challenges while focusing on long-term growth and stability.
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