Back to top

Image: Bigstock

Looking for a Top Momentum Stock? 3 Reasons Why BASF SE (BASFY) is a Great Choice

Read MoreHide Full Article

Many investors like to look for momentum in stocks, but this can be very tough to define. There is great debate regarding which metrics are the best to focus on in this regard, and which are not really quality indicators of future performance. Fortunately, with our new style score system we have identified the key statistics to pay close attention to and thus which stocks might be the best for momentum investors in the near term.

This method discovered several great candidates for momentum-oriented investors, but today let’s focus in on BASF SE (BASFY - Free Report) as this stock is looking especially impressive right now. And while there are numerous ways in which this company could be a great choice, we have highlighted three of the most vital reasons for BASFY’s status as a solid momentum stock below:

Short Term Price Change for BASF SE

A great place to look for finding momentum stocks is by inspecting short term price activity. This can help to reflect the current interest in a stock and if buyers or sellers have the upper hand right now. It is especially useful to compare it to the industry as this can help investors pinpoint the top companies in a particular area.

With a one week price change of 0.5% compared to an industry average of -0.12%, BASFY is certainly well-positioned in this regard. The stock is also looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the four week price change compares favorably with the industry at large as well.

Fiscal Year EPS Estimate Change for BASFY

In addition to price performance, it is also important to take a look at earnings estimate changes for the full year. This can show if BASFY is poised to make a run based on fundamentals, or if the company is simply moving on speculation.

Over the past month, the full year earnings estimate for BASFY has risen by 2.6%. On its own this is impressive, but consider that it also beats the industry average of 0% too. The trend is undeniably in BASF SE’s favor right now, and it suggests that the momentum might be long lasting for this stock. 

BASFY Earnings Estimate Revisions Moving in the Right Direction

While the great momentum factors outlined in the preceding paragraphs might be enough for some investors, we should also take into account broad earnings estimate revision trends. A nice path here can really help to show us a promising stock, and we have actually been seeing that with BASFY as of late too.

BASF SE Price and Consensus

BASF SE Price and Consensus | BASF SE Quote

Over the past two months, one earnings estimate has gone higher compared to none lower for the full year, while we are also seeing that one estimate has moved upwards with no downward revision for the next year time frame too.  These revisions have helped to boost the consensus estimate as two months ago BASFY was expected to post earnings of $5.18/share for the full year, though today it looks to have EPS of $5.32 for the full year now, representing a solid increase which is something that should definitely be welcomed news to would-be investors.

Bottom Line

Given these factors, investors shouldn’t be surprised to note that we have BASFY as a security with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and a Momentum Score of ‘B’. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

So if you are looking for a fresh pick that has potential to move in the right direction, definitely keep BASFY on your short list as this looks be a stock that is very well-positioned to soar in the near term.

Zacks' Top 10 Stocks for 2017

In addition to the stocks discussed above, would you like to know about our 10 finest tickers for the entirety of 2017?

Who wouldn't? These 10 are painstakingly hand-picked from 4,400 companies covered by the Zacks Rank. They are our primary picks to buy and hold. Be among the very first to see them >>


See More Zacks Research for These Tickers


Normally $25 each - click below to receive one report FREE:


BASF SE (BASFY) - free report >>

Published in