Washington Federal Inc (WAFD) operates as the bank holding company for Washington Federal Bank. Established in 1917, the company provides a range of lending, depository, insurance, and banking services across the United States. Its offerings include checking accounts, certificates of deposit, money market accounts, home loans, and insurance brokerage services, serving consumers and businesses.
Before we dive in, we have a special offer! For a limited time, you can get 70% off Stock Target Advisor’s premium features. Claim your discount here!
Recent Performance and Market Conditions:
WaFd, Inc.’s stock recently closed at USD 32.09, reflecting a -0.15% change over the past week, a -3.84% decline over the past month, and a +2.89% gain over the last year. The stock has demonstrated stability but faces pressure from broader economic challenges.
Is now the time to buy WAFD:NSD? Access our full analysis report here, it’s free.
With a beta of 0.82, it indicates relatively lower volatility compared to the broader market. However, challenges such as negative revenue growth (-88.85% over the past five years) and poor earnings performance underscore the need for caution.
Stock Target Advisor’s Analysis on Washington Federal Inc:
Stock Target Advisor rates WaFd as Slightly Bearish, supported by 4 positive signals such as strong cash flows and gross profit-to-asset ratios, and 7 negative signals, including low revenue and earnings growth over the last five years. The service projects a 15.3% price change over the next 12 months with a target price of USD 37.
Investor Sentiment and Analyst Ratings:
Washington Federal Inc is covered by three analysts, resulting in an average target price of USD 38.00 over the next 12 months. Analyst ratings are as follows:
- Keefe, Bruyette & Woods downgraded its rating to Market Perform with a target of USD 40.
- D.A. Davidson & Co. maintained a Buy rating with a target of USD 41.
- Stephens maintains an Equal-Weight rating, adjusting its target range to USD 32 – USD 36.
These ratings indicate mixed investor sentiment. While some analysts see potential, others remain cautious due to sector challenges and the company’s performance metrics.
Conclusion:
Washington Federal Inc remains a significant player in the regional banking sector but faces headwinds related to growth and leverage. Analysts project moderate growth potential, with stock targets clustering around the USD 35-41 range.
Investors should closely monitor macroeconomic trends and quarterly earnings updates, particularly the upcoming earnings spotlight on January 14, 2025.
Muzzammil is a content writer at Stock Target Advisor. He has been writing stock news and analysis at Stock Target Advisor since 2023 and has worked in the financial domain in various roles since 2020. He has previously worked on an equity research firm that analyzed companies listed on the stock markets in the U.S. and Canada and performed fundamental and qualitative analyses of management strength, business strategy, and product/services forecast as indicated by major brokers covering the stock.
