Hancock Whitney (HWC): Exploring Valuation as Analyst Expectations Signal Possible Earnings Upside

Hancock Whitney (HWC) is drawing investor attention ahead of its upcoming earnings report, as recent analyst expectations suggest stronger earnings and higher revenues could be on the horizon for the quarter.

See our latest analysis for Hancock Whitney.

Anticipation around Hancock Whitney’s upcoming earnings has added fresh momentum to the stock. It has delivered a steady 16.7% share price return year-to-date. What really stands out, though, is its 29.7% total shareholder return over the past year. This signals renewed optimism and sustained interest from investors even as broader markets remain choppy.

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With shares trading at a discount to analyst price targets, along with steady growth in both revenue and income, it raises the question: is Hancock Whitney undervalued, or is the market already factoring in its future potential?

Most Popular Narrative: 10.2% Undervalued

With Hancock Whitney’s narrative fair value set at $70.25, compared to a recent closing price of $63.05, analyst consensus expects future performance to outpace current valuations. This contrast sets the stage for potentially strong upside, hinging on management’s strategic moves and sector dynamics.

The company plans to continue hiring revenue producers, with a target of adding 20 to 30 new personnel, particularly in high growth markets like Texas and Florida, which is expected to drive loan growth and increase revenue. The repricing of CDs at lower rates and favorable funding mix adjustments have been guiding a modest expansion in net interest margin (NIM) and net interest income (NII) growth of 3% to 4% in 2025, thus supporting earnings growth.

Read the complete narrative.

Want to know what assumptions drive this bullish fair value? The analysts’ math isn’t just based on past performance. There’s a bold bet on how management’s expansion blueprint and future profit margins could play out. If you’re intrigued by the factors they’re counting on to justify a higher price, don’t miss the full breakdown; the numbers may surprise you.

Result: Fair Value of $70.25 (UNDERVALUED)

Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what's behind the forecasts.

However, caution is warranted, as sudden economic shifts or slower-than-expected loan growth could challenge Hancock Whitney’s ability to deliver on current optimistic forecasts.

Find out about the key risks to this Hancock Whitney narrative.

Build Your Own Hancock Whitney Narrative

Prefer a hands-on approach or see things differently? Dive into the numbers and shape your own story in just a few minutes. Do it your way

A good starting point is our analysis highlighting 5 key rewards investors are optimistic about regarding Hancock Whitney.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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