Does Credit Agricole SA (CRARY) have what it takes to be a top stock pick for momentum investors? Let's find out.
Despite relatively low sensitivity to interest rates, Credit Agricole has broadly matched the returns of the wider European financial space in recent years. Similarly, declining rates in the Eurozone didn't do much to dent its profitability last year, with the bank delivering a mid-teens return on tangible equity. The stock's discount to tangible book value has closed since my opening piece, but the valuation remains reasonable.
Credit Agricole offers a solid 8%+ yield with A+ credit and impressive earnings growth, making it a compelling investment despite recent declines. The bank's fundamentals are strong, with a CET1 ratio over 11.5%, excellent liquidity reserves, and a diversified operation reducing interest rate risk. While not the most efficient, Credit Agricole's valuation at €12.91/share presents a 16-19% annualized return, justifying a "Buy" rating with a €13.5/share PT.
Credit Agricole agreed to buy a 30.5% stake from Spain's Santander in custody and asset servicing entity Caceis, the banks said on Thursday, in a deal that will give the French lender full control of the business.
Credit Agricole SA's board of directors appointed Olivier Gavalda as its new chief executive, French newspaper Les Echos reported on Tuesday.
UniCredit and Credit Agricole held a first meeting over Italy's Banco BPM after the latter invested in rival Monte dei Paschi di Siena but the talks proved fruitless, la Repubblica daily reported.
France's Credit Agricole had informal backing from the Italian government before it said on Friday it was raising its stake in Banco BPM , two sources close to the matter told Reuters.
French lender Credit Agricole has moved up the list of global systemically important banks published by the Financial Stability Board (FSB), the Basel-based body said on Tuesday.
Europe's second top court on Wednesday dismissed challenges by Credit Suisse (CSAG.UL), now part of UBS , and Credit Agricole against million-euro fines issued by EU antitrust regulators in 2021 for taking part in a bond cartel.
The French lender reported a better-than-expected fall in net profit and confirmed its guidance for the year.
French bank Credit Agricole SA reported a smaller-than-expected drop in third quarter net profit on Wednesday after a record three months for its investment bankers offset weakness at some of its retail businesses.
France's Credit Agricole is being investigated over the online cost simulations for one of its mortgages, Italy's antitrust regulator said on Wednesday.