Back to top

Image: Bigstock

Can East West Bancorp (EWBC) Run Higher on Rising Earnings Estimates?

Read MoreHide Full Article

East West Bancorp (EWBC - Free Report) could be a solid addition to your portfolio given a notable revision in the company's earnings estimates. While the stock has been gaining lately, the trend might continue since its earnings outlook is still improving.

Analysts' growing optimism on the earnings prospects of this bank holding company is driving estimates higher, which should get reflected in its stock price. After all, empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements. Our stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is principally built on this insight.

The five-grade Zacks Rank system, which ranges from a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record of outperformance, with Zacks #1 Ranked stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 2008.

Consensus earnings estimates for the next quarter and full year have moved considerably higher for East West Bancorp, as there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising estimates.

The chart below shows the evolution of forward 12-month Zacks Consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Current-Quarter Estimate Revisions

The earnings estimate of $1.13 per share for the current quarter represents a change of +13% from the number reported a year ago.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for East West Bancorp has increased 15.71% over the last 30 days, as three estimates have gone higher compared to no negative revisions.

Current-Year Estimate Revisions

For the full year, the company is expected to earn $4.51 per share, representing a year-over-year change of +13.6%.

In terms of estimate revisions, the trend for the current year also appears quite encouraging for East West Bancorp. Over the past month, four estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions, helping the consensus estimate increase 12.98%.

Favorable Zacks Rank

Thanks to promising estimate revisions, East West Bancorp currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). The Zacks Rank is a tried-and-tested rating tool that helps investors effectively harness the power of earnings estimate revisions and make the right investment decision. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Our research shows that stocks with Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and 2 (Buy) significantly outperform the S&P 500.

Bottom Line

East West Bancorp shares have added 13.2% over the past four weeks, suggesting that investors are betting on its impressive estimate revisions. So, you may consider adding it to your portfolio right away to benefit from its earnings growth prospects.


See More Zacks Research for These Tickers


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


East West Bancorp, Inc. (EWBC) - free report >>

Published in