15 Set-It-and-Forget-It Stocks to Buy in 2026

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14. East West Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:EWBC)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 37

East West Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:EWBC) is one of the 15 set-it-and-forget-it stocks to buy in 2026.

On March 2, 2026, Morgan Stanley raised the price target on East West Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:EWBC) by $15, moving it up from $126 to $141. The firm’s analyst kept an Equal Weight rating on the company’s stock. The price target uplift is part of an average 8% increase in price target by Morgan Stanley across midcap banks. Additionally, the firm has cited tailwinds, including loan growth, capital returns, and net interest margin, for its positive outlook on the group, while noting that growth will be difficult following the recent outperformance.

In another event, on February 4, 2026, UBS analyst lowered the price target on East West Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:EWBC) from $126 to $125 while maintaining a Neutral rating on the stock. Mid-cap and regional banks outperformed in the fourth quarter, amid credit concerns. Analysts expect continued investor momentum in regional banks, with a steepening yield curve, accelerated loan growth, and strategic M&A activity supporting the trend.

Founded in 1973, East West Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:EWBC) is the parent company of East West Bank. Headquartered in California, the company provides a range of personal and commercial banking services to businesses and individuals.

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