BofA update shows where active managers are putting money
Willis Lease Finance Corp (NASDAQ:WLFC), currently trading at $151.59 and showing signs of being undervalued according to InvestingPro analysis, recently disclosed a series of stock transactions by its CEO, Willis Austin Chandler, according to a Form 4 filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The filing reveals that Chandler sold shares worth approximately $544,465 over multiple transactions on April 2, 2025. The sales were executed at prices ranging from $152.75 to $160.32 per share, notably within a company that maintains impressive gross profit margins of 91.5%.
In addition to the sales, Chandler acquired shares on April 1, 2025, through a combination of restrictive and performance stock grants, totaling $10,499,247 at a consistent price of $157.41 per share. These acquisitions were part of a planned vesting schedule over the next few years. The company’s stock has demonstrated remarkable strength, posting a 212.5% return over the past year. For deeper insights into WLFC’s valuation and 14 additional key ProTips, consider accessing the comprehensive research available on InvestingPro.
The filing also notes that a portion of the previously restricted shares was returned to the issuer to satisfy withholding tax liabilities, amounting to a transaction value of $2,304,482. All sales were conducted under a pre-established Rule 10b5-1 trading plan, which Chandler adopted in September 2024.
Chandler’s transactions reflect a significant reshuffling of his holdings in the company, with the latest sales leaving him with 206,644 shares of direct ownership in Willis Lease Finance Corp.
In other recent news, Willis Lease Finance Corporation reported a record-breaking financial performance for 2024, with total revenues reaching $569.2 million, marking an all-time high for the company. The company saw a 127% increase in earnings before tax and a 159% rise in net income compared to the previous year. In addition to these robust financial results, Willis Lease expanded its credit facility to $1 billion, enhancing its financial flexibility. The company also renewed the employment agreement with Executive Chairman Charles F. Willis IV, including a significant stock award valued at $8 million, which reflects the board’s confidence in his leadership.
Willis Lease has also entered into a joint venture with Global Engine Maintenance to establish an engine test facility in Florida, addressing a shortage of such facilities in North America. This collaboration aims to improve turnaround times for engine maintenance services. Furthermore, the company expanded its engine lease deal with Air India Express, including 26 CFM56-7B engines in their ConstantThrust® program to improve maintenance reliability and cost-efficiency. These developments highlight Willis Lease’s strategic initiatives and partnerships aimed at strengthening its market position and operational capabilities.
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