Conventional financial stocks, such as banks, asset management companies, insurance companies, and capital market firms, offer distinct advantages to investors. Some of these include stable or growing dividends, an inflation hedge, and potential outperformance during economic expansions. Currently, the financial pure plays are attracting increased investor interest, supported by a constructive sector outlook.
On December 31, RBC Capital Markets shared its views on the U.S. Banking sector, highlighting key growth drivers for the sector’s anticipated outperformance in 2026. According to their research, a high level of M&A activity will be one of the most critical enablers for the sector. Other trends likely to support this momentum include robust financing in commercial real estate and home equity, as well as strong industrial lending.
On the same day, Fitch Ratings also published a report with a stable outlook for the Property & Casualty Insurance segment. According to the report, underwriting profitability will remain strong throughout 2026, although combined ratios are expected to rise from 94% in 2025 to around 96%-97%. Certain headwinds, such as weak economic growth, intense market competition, and inflationary pressures, may affect the segment’s adjusted returns. However, rising renewal premium rates and adequate pricing will keep things in balance, and the overall book yields are also expected to remain healthy.
With such favorable expectations, many investors, including hedge funds, have been reported to be accumulating shares of financial pure play stocks across a range of sub-verticals. This provides an institutional perspective on these business models and how these investors are positioning themselves relative to financial companies.
With that background, let’s explore our 16 Most Favored Financial Pure Plays Under $100 According to Hedge Funds.
Copyright: kritchanut / 123RF Stock Photo
Our Methodology
To identify financial pure play stocks under $100 for this article, we began by screening U.S.-listed financial companies with market capitalizations above $2 billion. We then narrowed our selection to include companies with share prices between $5 and $100 and with at least 10% upside potential according to TipRanks consensus.
In the final part of the screening, we assessed the number of hedge funds holding positions in these stocks as of the end of the third quarter of 2025 and selected the 16 stocks with the highest counts. We then ranked them in ascending order based on the number of hedge funds.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 427.7% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 264 percentage points (see more details here).
16. Glacier Bancorp (NYSE:GBCI)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Banks)
Share Price: $44.44
Potential Upside: 27.1%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 16
Glacier Bancorp (NYSE:GBCI) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to hedge funds.
On December 18, Piper Sandler analyst Matthew Clark upgraded his rating on Glacier Bancorp (NYSE:GBCI) to Buy from Neutral. He raised his price target on the stock from $50 to $58, offering investors an attractive 30.5% upside.
Clark attributed his overweight stance on Glacier Bancorp (NYSE:GBCI) to several fundamental and market factors. He noted the stock’s underperformance in recent times, which places it at a significant discount compared to its own historical valuation multiples. Clark also highlighted a very stable credit profile and asset repricing, which make the bank’s fundamentals robust. Moreover, the analyst believes that such asset repricing will help deliver strong net interest margins going forward. This makes the analyst forecast a double-digit growth in earnings for the bank.
As of the December 30 closing, consensus ratings remain favorable toward Glacier Bancorp (NYSE:GBCI). All four analysts covering the company had assigned Buy ratings, leading to a consensus 1-year average price target of $56.50. This results in an upside potential of over 27% from the current level.
Glacier Bancorp (NYSE:GBCI) is a multi-bank holding company that operates around 18 distinct banking brands. In line with the community-focused banking concept, they deliver commercial banking services with assets totaling $29 billion. Their offerings include transaction & savings deposits, consumer loans, and mortgage origination services.
15. HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital (NYSE:HASI)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Asset Management)
Share Price: $31.97
Potential Upside: 26.0%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 17
HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital (NYSE:HASI) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to hedge funds.
On December 16, HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital (NYSE:HASI) announced a $500 million additional capital commitment towards CarbonCount Holdings 1 (CCH1), a co-investment vehicle that was set up in partnership with KKR & Co. As part of this announcement, KKR & Co will also add $500 million to the investment capacity of this vehicle, which injects capital into sustainable infrastructure projects within the U.S.
HASI Chief Revenue and Strategy Officer Marc Pangburn said:
“CCH1 enables us to efficiently deploy capital into sustainable infrastructure projects that support the energy transition and address the country’s rising power demand. Alongside KKR, we are pleased to further scale CCH1 to deliver long-term value for our clients and stakeholders.”
The stock has a consensus 1-year average price target of $40.27, implying a 26% upside from the current level. As of December 30 closing, the forecasts remain strong for HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital (NYSE:HASI). The stock has been covered by 13 analysts, with 11 assigning Buy ratings and 2 giving Hold calls.
On December 23, Mizuho Securities reaffirmed its bullish stance on HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital (NYSE:HASI). The firm assigned a Buy rating to the stock with a target price of $34, implying single-digit upside of nearly 6.5%.
HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital (NYSE:HASI) invests in sustainable infrastructure assets and has approximately $15 billion in assets under management (AUM). Focused on energy transition, they have invested across diverse classes such as onshore wind, distributed solar, utility-scale solar and RNG.
14. Cvb Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:CVBF)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Banks)
Share Price: $18.80
Potential Upside: 26.8%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 17
Cvb Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:CVBF) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to hedge funds.
After a drop of more than 11% during 2025, Cvb Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:CVBF) still has a consensus upside estimate of around 27%, as of December 30. This is based on the stock’s 1-year median price target of $23.83. The stock has been rated by 3 analysts, with 2 Buy calls and 1 Hold call.
On December 29, KBW analyst Christopher McGratty reiterated his optimism on Cvb Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:CVBF), assigning a Buy rating to the stock. The analyst has given a price target of $23, that results in a potential upside of over 22%.
McGratty praised the firm’s conservative balance sheet management, which is supported by a highly stable core deposit base. Cvb Financial Corporation’s (NASDAQ:CVBF) strong credit quality and capital strength also offer resilience to the business during the current macroeconomic uncertainty. According to McGratty, the company has achieved an impressive operational discipline through cost control, which is reflected in the company’s elevated profitability metrics.
McGratty also emphasized the company’s valuation multiples, which clearly indicate that its fundamental strength has not yet been priced in by the market. This is another reason why he remains bullish on the stock.
Cvb Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:CVBF) is a holding company for Citizens Business Bank that offers banking, lending, investment and trust services to institutional clients. As one of the ten largest bank holding companies, they have roughly $15 billion in assets.
13. Walker & Dunlop (NYSE:WD)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Mortgage Finance)
Share Price: $60.80
Potential Upside: 38.2%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 19
Walker & Dunlop (NYSE:WD) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to hedge funds.
On December 14, Keefe Bruyette analyst Jade Rahmani reaffirmed his bullish rating for Walker & Dunlop (NYSE:WD). Rahmani issued a Buy rating on the stock and lowered his price target from $92 to $82. Despite the drop, his forecasts still indicate around 35% upside at the current level.
Rahmani’s revision comes on the back of some adjustments to the real estate sector’s 2026 outlook. He categorically spoke about the commercial real estate market, which is expected to exhibit moderate yet healthy growth in the coming year. Rahmani believes that such favorable prospects will benefit commercial real estate players. That includes mortgage financiers such as Walker & Dunlop (NYSE:WD).
At the close of play on December 30, the consensus ratings also project a bullish market view for Walker & Dunlop (NYSE:WD). The stock has been covered by 3 analysts, all of whom have assigned Buy ratings. According to analyst estimates, the median 1-year price target for the stock is $84, implying potential upside of more than 38% from the current level.
Walker & Dunlop (NYSE:WD) operates within the commercial real estate space and is recognized as one of the largest firms in the industry. Their service offerings include financing, advisory, servicing, valuations, and investment management. Their coverage extends across various sub-sectors such as retail, hospitality, industrial, self-storage, and more.
12. XP Inc. (NASDAQ:XP)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Capital Markets)
Share Price: $16.54
Potential Upside: 47.1%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 22
XP Inc. (NASDAQ:XP) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to hedge funds.
On December 12, Bank of America analyst Mario Pierry assigned a Hold rating to XP Inc. (NASDAQ:XP), with a price target of $22, according to TipRanks. Despite his neutral view, he estimates approximately 34% upside for the stock.
According to the TipRanks report, Pierry referred to the company CEO’s strategic priorities for 2026, where the focus will shift towards standardization of services in line with a new framework for Independent Financial Advisors, and premium services for lower-tier customers. Moreover, the company is also planning to invest more in expanding its B2C distribution channels and developing alternative ones.
The report also said that the above strategic priorities will improve the overall customer engagement; however, the earnings forecasts show limited upside in the near to medium term. This is due to lower expected improvement in earnings yield, and circa 8% growth is anticipated for the coming year. This has led to Pierry’s cautious stance on XP Inc. (NASDAQ:XP).
However, the consensus 1-year median price target for XP Inc. (NASDAQ:XP) is $24.33, resulting in an upside of above 47%. These forecasts stem from 3 analyst ratings assigned to the stock as of December 30 closing. 2 analysts gave Buy calls, and 1 was a Hold call.
XP Inc. (NASDAQ:XP) is a technology-enabled platform offering various investment, credit, and pension products at low fees. They deliver wealth management, investment funds, and private pension services, covering diverse asset classes including equities, fixed income, and alternatives across both public and private markets.
11. Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:SEZL)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Credit Services)
Share Price: $65.01
Potential Upside: 55.4%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 22
Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:SEZL) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to hedge funds.
On December 23, Northland Securities analyst Michael Grondahl reaffirmed his bullish view on Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:SEZL). Although he reduced his price target from $130 to $110, Grondahl still anticipates over 69% upside for the stock.
Grondahl held discussions with Sezzle’s (NASDAQ:SEZL) management, who plan to pivot back towards subscription-based offerings such as Anywhere and Premium. This strategic shift offers a more stable revenue base in the long run compared with On-Demand offerings. It also leads to superior yields, better customer engagement, and enhanced customer lifetime value.
The analyst noted that the company will continue offering on-demand products to price-sensitive and lower-credit users. Such a mix will ensure a significant improvement in the company’s risk profiling and underwriting discipline. The analyst also acknowledged Sezzle’s (NASDAQ:SEZL) data-driven methodical approach that facilitates decision-making based on weighted lifetime value for different products and segments.
The broader analyst coverage does indicate an optimistic view of Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:SEZL). As of December 30 closing, the estimated 1-year average price target for the stock stands at $101, which leads to more than 55% upside potential. The stock received three analyst ratings, of which 2 were Buys, and 1 was Hold.
Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:SEZL) is a financial technology company that operates a “buy now pay later platform.” It allows consumers to make purchases with flexible payment terms involving one upfront payment followed by four interest-free installments. These payments are spread over a six-week period, which boosts the consumer’s purchasing power.
10. GooseHead Insurance (NASDAQ:GSHD)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Insurance Brokers)
Share Price: $74.57
Potential Upside: 22.4%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 23
GooseHead Insurance (NASDAQ:GSHD) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
On December 1, Jefferies analyst Andrew Andersen initiated coverage on GooseHead Insurance (NASDAQ:GSHD) with a Buy rating. The analyst has set a price target of $93 for the stock, representing almost 25% upside for investors.
Andersen noted GooseHead Insurance’s (NASDAQ:GSHD) strategic position and growth outlook as key catalysts. The company is currently benefiting from the ongoing expansion within the property and casualty insurance market. Andersen sees its unique broker model leading to strong customer retention and bind rates, along with higher commissions in the future.
Anderson also praised the company’s low-risk expansion strategy through partnerships with independent agencies. Such a capital-light franchise model allows them to achieve high margins without deploying significant initial capital. Going forward, such strategic partnerships and further growth within the P&C insurance market will prove to be the major drivers for GooseHead Insurance (NASDAQ:GSHD).
GooseHead Insurance (NASDAQ:GSHD) is covered by 12 analysts, 5 of whom have assigned Buy ratings and 6 have given Hold calls. There is just 1 Sell rating for the stock, and the forecasted 1-year median price target stands at $91.27. This gives investors an upside of above 22%, as of the close of play on December 30.
GooseHead Insurance (NASDAQ:GSHD) is an independent personal lines insurance agency that covers policies from over 200 insurance companies. This allows them to deliver optimal policy rates for their customers. They cover different types of insurance plans, ranging from home insurance, autos, property, life insurance, and many more.
9. Eastern Bankshares (NASDAQ:EBC)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Banks)
Share Price: $18.53
Potential Upside: 15.1%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 25
Eastern Bankshares (NASDAQ:EBC) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
Eastern Bankshares (NASDAQ:EBC) has returned almost 8% so far in 2025, and the consensus 1-year median price target is $21.33, implying more than 15% upside as of the December 30 close. The stock has been assigned three analyst ratings, of which two analysts gave Buy calls, and 1 was a Hold call.
Jared Shaw from Barclays initiated his coverage on Eastern Bankshares (NASDAQ:EBC) on December 19. The analyst issued a Hold rating with a $22 price target. Despite his neutral stance, Shaw has estimated an almost 19% upside for the stock.
Shaw discussed several fundamental factors that provide “optionality” for the company. These include their elevated capital levels, strong deposit base, and their commercial platform. However, the analyst also pointed out some evident headwinds that expose them to a higher level of risk compared to peers. First is the bank’s meager market growth. Second relates to the integration of two merger deals finalized in the last 2 years, i.e., HarborOne Bancorp in 2024 and Cambridge Bancorp in 2025. Given these structural issues, Shaw has maintained a neutral stance on the stock.
Eastern Bankshares (NASDAQ:EBC) is the holding company for Eastern Bank in Boston, which specializes in retail & commercial banking as well as wealth management, investment, and insurance services. They cater to both individual and institutional clients with a highly comprehensive suite of financial offerings.
8. Slide Insurance Holdings (NASDAQ:SLDE)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Property & Casualty Insurance)
Share Price: $19.55
Potential Upside: 13.8%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 25
Slide Insurance Holdings (NASDAQ:SLDE) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
On December 16, management shared its fourth-quarter projections, with gross written premiums expected between $590 million and $600 million. This would result in $1.77 billion to $1.78 billion in full-year gross written premiums and 33% year-on-year topline growth.
The company expects to generate quarterly net income between $115 million and $125 million, corresponding to annual net income of $389 million to $399 million. Chairman and CEO Bruce Lucas said:
“We are very pleased with our performance in the quarter and the year, both from a growth and underwriting standpoint. Our fourth quarter results reflect our continued top and bottom-line expansion, which we believe will continue into 2026. We remain committed to delivering sustainable and profitable growth, which is core to our strategy of creating long-term value for our shareholders. Looking ahead, we anticipate providing 2026 guidance in conjunction with the release of our fourth quarter earnings.”
The consensus sentiment towards Slide Insurance Holdings (NASDAQ:SLDE) is also positive. As of December 30 closing, the stock has received Buy ratings from all four analysts providing coverage. Such bullish consensus has resulted in an estimated 1-year average price target of $22.25. This implies an upside of nearly 14% from the current level.
Alex Scott of Barclays also reiterated his optimism on Slide Insurance Holdings (NASDAQ:SLDE), rating the stock Buy on December 18. Scott has set a $25 price target for the stock, implying nearly 28% upside for investors.
Slide Insurance Holdings (NASDAQ:SLDE) is a tech-enabled insurance company that leverages big data and AI capabilities to offer personalized insurance solutions to customers. Keeping the unique needs and circumstances of individuals in mind, they deliver insurance plans for homeowners, commercial residential properties, and condominiums.
7. WesBanco Inc. (NASDAQ:WSBC)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Banks)
Share Price: $33.52
Potential Upside: 16.4%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 25
WesBanco Inc. (NASDAQ:WSBC) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
On December 17, Piper Sandler analyst Manuel Navas initiated coverage of WesBanco Inc. (NASDAQ:WSBC). The analyst assigned a Buy rating with more than 25% upside potential. As per Navas’s estimates, the stock has a target price of $42.
Navas gave his overweight rating in line with favorable market expectations for banks, amid a strong earnings backdrop. He has a positive outlook through 2027, driven by relevant market forces. He expects a robust economic growth and a slight steepening of the yield curve. This is based on his expectations of a dovish monetary policy, where the Federal Reserve would gradually lower rates on the short end. This will also trigger some activity within the credit markets that will further fuel economic growth. According to Navas, WesBanco Inc. (NASDAQ:WSBC) is strongly positioned to benefit from such an outlook.
As of December 30 closing, the consensus estimates also reflect a positive analyst sentiment for WesBanco Inc. (NASDAQ:WSBC). Of the four analysts who covered the stock, 3 gave Buy calls and 1 assigned a Hold rating. Analysts have forecasted a 1-year average price target of $39, leading to an estimated upside of more than 16% for investors.
WesBanco Inc. (NASDAQ:WSBC) is a community-focused bank delivering retail and commercial banking services, along with wealth management, brokerage, and insurance offerings. It also lends money for community development projects as well as tax credit loans.
6. Skyward Specialty Insurance Group (NASDAQ:SKWD)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Property & Casualty Insurance)
Share Price: $51.78
Potential Upside: 25.2%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 26
Skyward Specialty Insurance Group (NASDAQ:SKWD) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
On December 9, William Blair analyst Adam Klauber reiterated his optimistic forecast for Skyward Specialty Insurance Group (NASDAQ:SKWD), assigning a Buy rating to the stock.
Klauber’s rating is based on the company’s recent 2026 guidance, where they shared plans to finalize their strategic acquisition of Apollo Group Holdings for $555 million. Following the announcement, shares have appreciated 5%.
In their 2026 guidance, management also forecasted a resilient financial position. They expect somewhere between 20% to 30% growth in gross written premiums. Management also provided EPS guidance that exceeded consensus forecasts by 8%. This offers significant upside given the stock currently trades at a 10x multiple to 2026 earnings forecasts. This multiple is much lower compared to their peer group. Moreover, as per Klauber’s estimates, Skyward Specialty Insurance Group (NASDAQ:SKWD) will deliver revenue and earnings growth in the high-teens.
The broader analyst coverage also reflects a favorable forecast for Skyward Specialty Insurance Group (NASDAQ:SKWD). As of December 30 closing, the estimated 1-year average price target for the stock stands at $64.83, which implies more than 25% upside potential. The stock received 7 analyst ratings, including 6 Buy ratings and 1 Hold rating.
Skyward Specialty Insurance Group (NASDAQ:SKWD) is an innovative specialty insurance company that delivers commercial property & casualty insurance services. They operate through eight distinct underwriting divisions, covering different areas, making their offerings highly comprehensive. These include accident & health, property & agriculture, industries, captives, and surety & transactional.
5. LendingClub Corporation (NYSE:LC)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Banks)
Share Price: $19.26
Potential Upside: 19.4%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 29
LendingClub Corporation (NYSE:LC) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
JPMorgan analyst Reginald Smith reaffirmed his stance on LendingClub Corporation (NYSE:LC) on December 4. The analyst reiterated an Overweight rating for the stock and raised his price target from $22 to $25. According to Smith’s revised estimates, the stock offers over 19% upside from the current level.
Smith raised his price target for LendingClub Corporation (NYSE:LC) based on his 2026 outlook for the broader sector. He anticipates a slowdown in the sector’s real growth, which will result in “soft-landing grind” during the year. The analyst attributes this slowdown to weakness in the labor market. Moreover, the lagged effects of tariffs are expected to materialize in 2026, which will also take a toll on the sector. Although these effects are expected to be partially offset by some tax cuts, the potential risks still outweigh that.
On December 30, the consensus ratings indicate a bullish stance towards LendingClub Corporation (NYSE:LC). The company received coverage from 9 analysts, 8 of whom assigned Buy ratings and 1 gave a Hold call. The resulting consensus 1-year average price target for the stock is $23, which offers a 19.4% upside.
LendingClub Corporation (NYSE:LC) operates an online lending marketplace and is among the first financial technology companies to hold a national bank charter. Being one of the largest unsecured personal loan providers in the U.S., they have originated more than $100 billion in loans.
4. Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Banks)
Share Price: $84.64
Potential Upside: 21.6%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 35
Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
On December 19, Jared Shaw from Barclays reaffirmed his stance on Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL) with a Buy rating. The analyst also raised his price target from the previous estimate of $112 to $115. The revised forecast now leads to a potential upside on the stock of almost 36%.
Shaw’s upward revision in price target for Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL) is part of the broader 2026 outlook revisions for mid-cap banks. He shared his optimistic forecast backed by a higher level of differentiation in loan growth. Moreover, he also anticipates an expansion of book value during the coming year. The combination of these factors has led to Shaw’s bullish view on the stock.
As of December 30, Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL) stock has received coverage from 10 analysts, with 9 Buy ratings and only 1 Sell rating. Consensus estimates have set a target price of $102.88, implying nearly 22% upside for investors.
Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL) is the bank holding company for Western Alliance Bank. They operate within the commercial and consumer banking segment, offering a variety of services including commercial loans, asset-based lending, equipment finance, personal checking accounts, IRA savings, and more. They also facilitate small businesses through mobile & online banking, business credit cards, and loans.
3. First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Specialty Insurance)
Share Price: $62.05
Potential Upside: 20.1%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 40
First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
Bose George from Keefe Bruyette reaffirmed his bullish stance on First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF) on December 18. The analyst rated the stock as Buy and raised his target price forecast from $79 to $81. This revision now implies an upside of more than 30% relative to the prevailing level.
George’s outperform rating on First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF) stems from his constructive view on the mortgage insurance market. He also anticipates double-digit growth in book value, which has led to an upward revision of the stock’s target price.
As of December 30 closing, First American Financial Corporation (NYSE:FAF) had a moderately bullish sentiment, with 2 Buy ratings and 2 Hold ratings. The stock has a consensus 1-year target price of $74.50, which still offers an upside of more than 20%.
First American Financial Corporation (NYSE: FAF) is a specialty insurance provider that primarily offers title insurance and settlement services. Beyond that, they also offer home warranties, lending solutions, and wealth management services. The company has also diversified towards data and analytics for commercial and residential properties.
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.
1. Equitable Holdings (NYSE:EQH)
Sector/Industry: Financial (Asset Management)
Share Price: $48.08
Potential Upside: 31.0%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 45
Equitable Holdings (NYSE:EQH) is one of the best financial pure plays under $100 according to Hedge Funds.
On December 16, Mizuho Securities analyst Yaron Kinar initiated his coverage on Equitable Holdings (NYSE:EQH) with a bullish rating. The analyst gave a Buy call with a price target of $66 for the stock, implying more than 37% upside from the current level.
Kinar’s bullish sentiment results from his strong preference for life insurance businesses over other areas in the market, such as insurance brokerage and property & casualty insurance. Equitable Holdings (NYSE:EQH) has a prominent presence in the life insurance space through a highly comprehensive suite of offerings. This includes products such as Variable Universal Life, Indexed Universal Life, Term Life insurance, and Annuities. Kinar sees his favorable outlook for the life insurance segment to resonate with Equitable Holdings (NYSE:EQH), thus leading to the upside.
Equitable Holdings (NYSE:EQH) received coverage from 8 analysts as of the December 30 close. 6 analysts assigned Buy ratings, and 2 gave Hold ratings. According to consensus estimates, the median 1-year price target is $63, implying almost 31% upside at the current market price.
Equitable Holdings (NYSE:EQH) is one of the leading financial services firms in the United States. The company delivers retirement plans, wealth management, insurance, and protection services, offering a diverse array of products. Through its multinational subsidiary, AllianceBernstein, they also operate within the asset management industry.
While we acknowledge the potential of EQH as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than EQH and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.
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