16 Most Favored Financial Pure Plays Under $100 According to Hedge Funds

2. SLM Corporation (NASDAQ:SLM)

Sector/Industry: Financial (Credit Services)

Share Price: $27.20

Potential Upside: 16.5%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 41

SLM Corporation (NASDAQ:SLM) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.

As of the December 30 closing, the 1-year median price target for SLM Corporation (NASDAQ:SLM) was $31.70, implying a 16.5% upside. The stock has received coverage from 11 analysts, 7 of whom have given Buy calls. With 3 Hold ratings and just 1 Sell rating, the consensus view on the stock remains reasonably optimistic.

Morgan Stanley analyst Jeffrey Adelson assigned a Hold rating to SLM Corporation (NASDAQ:SLM) on December 16. The analyst has set a $30 price target, implying an 11% upside.

Adelson noted certain fundamental factors that are expected to deliver support to the wider consumer finance segment. According to his 2026 outlook, lower expected delinquencies will result in lower default rates across the segment. He also anticipates loan growth will resume its acceleration during the year. Such positive trends in 2026 will generate superior capital returns for investors. These fundamental factors also bode well for major consumer finance players like SLM Corporation (NASDAQ:SLM) and will be the primary drivers of the expected double-digit share price appreciation.

SLM Corporation (NASDAQ:SLM) is a consumer banking company that provides services related to credit-based educational loans to students. They also offer financial planning services and scholarships through their partner organizations. They make education affordable through 100% cost coverage and flexible repayment plans.