The earnings season is nearing its end and the finance sector can safely be called one of the best performers. So, we thought of highlighting LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:LPLA) from this sector that reflects strong fundamentals and solid long-term growth opportunity.
LPL Financial has been witnessing upward estimate revisions, reflecting analysts’ optimism. In the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2017 and 2018 increased 6.5% and 5.6%, respectively.
Further, this Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock has rallied 12.5% in the last six months versus the industry’s loss of 0.3%.
LPL Financial has a number of other aspects that make it an attractive investment option.
Earnings per Share (EPS) Strength: LPL Financial has witnessed 28.7% growth in earnings per share over the last three to five years. The trend is expected to continue in the near term. The company’s projected EPS growth is 23.2% and 14.9% for 2017 and 2018, respectively.
Further, its long-term (three to five years) expected EPS growth of 14% promises rewards for shareholders.
Revenue Strength: LPL Financial’s revenues witnessed a CAGR of 2.6% over the last five years (2012–2016). Further, the top line is expected to grow 4.3% in 2017 versus industry’s flat performance.
Superior Return on Equity (ROE): LPL Financial has an ROE of 21.46%, far better than the industry average of 8.35%. This shows that the company reinvests its cash more efficiently.
Favorable VGM Score: LPL Financial has a VGM Score of A. Our research shows stocks with a VGM Score of A or B when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 or 2 (Buy) offer the best upside potential.
Other Stocks to Consider
Some other top-ranked stocks in the finance space are Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE:RJF) , E*TRADE Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:ETFC) and Moelis & Company (NYSE:MC) .
Raymond James Financial witnessed an upward earnings estimate revision of 3.3% for the current fiscal year, in the last 60 days. Its share price increased 9.8% in the last three months. The company currently sports a Zacks Rank #1. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here
E*TRADE Financial also carries a Zacks Rank #1. For the current year, in the last 60 days, its Zacks Consensus Estimate was revised 13.5% upward. The company’s share price increased 15.7% in the last three months.
Moelis & Company has a Zacks Rank #2. The company witnessed upward earnings estimate revision of 6.9% for the current year, in the last 60 days. Its share price increased 3.8% in the last three months.
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