Research Analysts Update Predictions for EQB FY2025 Earnings

EQB Inc. (TSE:EQB) has recently faced a downgrade in earnings expectations according to a research report from National Bank Financial on December 4th. Analyst G. Dechaine has revised the forecast for the company’s fiscal year 2025 earnings per share (EPS) down to $12.15, a decrease from the prior estimate of $12.30. In comparison, the consensus estimate for EQB's full-year earnings stands at $12.60 per share.

Looking ahead, National Bank Financial has also projected the company’s FY2026 earnings to reach $13.66 EPS. This shift in predictions is significant for investors following EQB's performance in the market.

Equity Research Insights

Multiple equities research analysts have expressed their views on EQB as well. For instance, Raymond James lowered their price target for EQB shares from C$110.00 to C$106.00 as of August 21st. Cormark made a notable change by downgrading EQB from a “buy” rating to a “market perform” rating, reducing the price objective from C$131.00 to C$110.00 shortly after. Similarly, TD Securities downgraded EQB to a “hold” rating and cut their price target from C$126.00 to C$110.00.

On a more favorable note, BMO Capital Markets raised their price target from C$106.00 to C$119.00, reflecting some positive sentiment for the stock. Additionally, Scotiabank responded by lowering their price target from C$135.00 to C$130.00. Currently, equity research indicates mixed sentiments with one analyst recommending a sell, three analysts suggesting a hold, and five analysts giving a buy rating. Overall, data compiled shows a consensus rating of “Hold” for EQB stock with a target price averaging C$113.63.

Current Market Overview

As of December 6th, EQB shares were trading down 2.2% with an opening price of C$102.10. The shares have experienced volatility, with a 50-day moving average at C$107.22 and a 200-day moving average at C$98.44. The stock has seen a low of C$77.96 and a high of C$113.20 over the past year, illustrating the fluctuations in its market position.

Dividend Announcement

In a recent development, EQB announced an increase in its quarterly dividend. The new dividend of $0.49 per share will be paid to stockholders on December 31st, with the ex-dividend date set for December 13th. This adjustment raises the annualized dividend to $1.96, giving a yield of 1.92%. The raise from the previous dividend of $0.47 indicates the company's efforts to enhance shareholder value, while maintaining a payout ratio of 19.75%.

Company Overview

EQB Inc., through its subsidiary Equitable Bank, offers various personal and commercial banking services to both retail and commercial customers across Canada. Services include accepting term deposits, high-interest savings accounts, and providing specialized financing solutions.

earnings, predictions, stocks