National Bankshares (NASDAQ:NKSH) Receives Mixed Ratings from Analysts

On Tuesday morning, StockNews.com made a significant change to its recommendation for National Bankshares (NASDAQ:NKSH – Free Report), downgrading the company's shares from a hold rating to a sell rating. This move is noteworthy as it reflects the analysts' current outlook on the bank's performance and prospects.

In a contrasting analysis, Janney Montgomery Scott issued a report on November 22nd, in which they upgraded National Bankshares from a "neutral" rating to a "buy" rating. They also set a price target of $38.00 for the company's shares, indicating a positive outlook on National Bankshares’ future performance.

National Bankshares Price Performance

As of Tuesday, shares of NKSH opened trading at $29.24. The stock's fifty-day moving average is $30.67, while its two-hundred-day moving average stands at $29.89. Over the past year, National Bankshares has experienced a low of $26.50 and a high of $35.00. The company maintains a market capitalization of approximately $186 million, a PE ratio of 20.17, and a beta value of 0.59, demonstrating its relative stability compared to the broader market.

Increase in Dividends

Recently, National Bankshares announced a semi-annual dividend, which was distributed on December 2nd. Shareholders who were on record as of November 25th received a dividend of $0.78 per share, reflecting a 5% yield. This is an increase from the previous semi-annual dividend of $0.55. The ex-dividend date was also on November 25th. However, it is important to notice that the company's dividend payout ratio (DPR) currently stands at 107.59%, which suggests that they are distributing more than their earnings in dividends.

Institutional Investor Activity

Recent activity from institutional investors indicates a growing interest in National Bankshares. BNP Paribas Financial Markets boosted its stake in the bank by 71.7% during the third quarter, owning 1,757 shares valued at around $53,000 after acquiring an additional 734 shares. Additionally, Private Trust Co. NA increased its holdings by 16.7%, bringing their total to 3,500 shares worth approximately $105,000. Other notable changes include Eagle Ridge Investment Management acquiring a new position valued at $211,000, and Barclays PLC raising its stake by 290.4%, adding up to 7,487 shares worth $224,000. Altogether, institutional investors own about 29.73% of National Bankshares, indicating a considerable interest in the company from larger financial entities.

Company Overview

National Bankshares, Inc serves as the bank holding company for the National Bank of Blacksburg. The bank offers a range of retail and commercial banking products and services suitable for individuals, businesses, non-profits, and local government entities. Their services include interest-bearing demand deposit accounts, money market accounts, savings accounts, certificates of deposit, health savings accounts, and individual retirement accounts.

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