Meridian Corporation remains a 'buy' as deposit growth, strong asset quality, and attractive valuation persist. MRBK's net interest income and net profits have shown robust growth, supported by rising deposits and loans. Valuation is compelling, with an 8.1x P/E and metrics favorably comparing to peers on book value and returns.
Here at Zacks, our focus is on the proven Zacks Rank system, which emphasizes earnings estimates and estimate revisions to find great stocks. Nevertheless, we are always paying attention to the latest value, growth, and momentum trends to underscore strong picks.
Here at Zacks, our focus is on the proven Zacks Rank system, which emphasizes earnings estimates and estimate revisions to find great stocks. Nevertheless, we are always paying attention to the latest value, growth, and momentum trends to underscore strong picks.
Meridian Corporation remains cheap on valuation and continues to grow its balance sheet, but asset quality concerns persist, justifying my 'hold' rating. Deposit growth is solid, and uninsured deposit exposure is below my risk threshold, but high-brokered deposit levels warrant caution. Loan growth is healthy with minimal office exposure, but profitability metrics like return on assets and equity fall short of my standards.
The apparent weakness in the housing market will keep mortgage banking income low. I've reduced my EPS estimate because I've slashed my mortgage banking income estimate. The net interest margin will likely continue to expand, as asset yields will likely be stickier than funding costs. Further, a sizable balance of CDs will roll over soon.
Meridian Bank (MRBK) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.21 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.33 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.24 per share a year ago.
Meridian Bank, founded in 2004, has grown significantly within the Delaware Valley, focusing on business, industrial, retail, and commercial lending. Headquartered in Malvern, PA, the bank employs a lean growth model, strategically placing branches to minimize overhead costs. Meridian emphasizes customer satisfaction and client relationships, driving growth through referrals and maintaining a consumer-friendly outlook.
Due to changes in my interest rate outlook, I have reduced my mortgage banking income estimate but raised my net interest margin estimate. I'm now expecting an EPS of $1.67, down from my previous estimate of $1.69. I'm expecting earnings to grow by 15% this year, thanks to expected net interest margin expansion and loan growth.
Here at Zacks, our focus is on the proven Zacks Rank system, which emphasizes earnings estimates and estimate revisions to find great stocks. Nevertheless, we are always paying attention to the latest value, growth, and momentum trends to underscore strong picks.
Meridian Bank (MRBK) has been upgraded to a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), reflecting growing optimism about the company's earnings prospects. This might drive the stock higher in the near term.
Here at Zacks, our focus is on the proven Zacks Rank system, which emphasizes earnings estimates and estimate revisions to find great stocks. Nevertheless, we are always paying attention to the latest value, growth, and momentum trends to underscore strong picks.
Meridian Bank (MRBK) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.49 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.34 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.05 per share a year ago.