Back to top

Image: Bigstock

Earnings Estimates Rising for First Community Bancshares (FCBC): Will It Gain?

Read MoreHide Full Article

First Community Bancshares (FCBC - Free Report) could be a solid addition to your portfolio given a notable revision in the company's earnings estimates. While the stock has been gaining lately, the trend might continue since its earnings outlook is still improving.

The rising trend in estimate revisions, which is a result of growing analyst optimism on the earnings prospects of this holding company for First Community Bank, should get reflected in its stock price. After all, empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements. Our stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is principally built on this insight.

The five-grade Zacks Rank system, which ranges from a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record of outperformance, with Zacks #1 Ranked stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 2008.

Consensus earnings estimates for the next quarter and full year have moved considerably higher for First Community Bancshares, as there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising estimates.

The chart below shows the evolution of forward 12-month Zacks Consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Current-Quarter Estimate Revisions

The earnings estimate of $0.59 per share for the current quarter represents a change of +28.26% from the number reported a year ago.

Over the last 30 days, one estimate has moved higher for First Community Bancshares compared to no negative revisions. As a result, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased 11.32%.

Current-Year Estimate Revisions

For the full year, the company is expected to earn $2.66 per share, representing a year-over-year change of +27.88%.

The revisions trend for the current year also appears quite promising for First Community Bancshares, with one estimate moving higher over the past month compared to no negative revisions. The consensus estimate has also received a boost over this time frame, increasing 23.15%.

Favorable Zacks Rank

The promising estimate revisions have helped First Community Bancshares earn a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The Zacks Rank is a tried-and-tested rating tool that helps investors effectively harness the power of earnings estimate revisions and make the right investment decision. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Our research shows that stocks with Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and 2 (Buy) significantly outperform the S&P 500.

Bottom Line

While strong estimate revisions for First Community Bancshares have attracted decent investments and pushed the stock 6.9% higher over the past four weeks, further upside may still be left in the stock. So, you may consider adding it to your portfolio right away.


See More Zacks Research for These Tickers


Normally $25 each - click below to receive one report FREE:


First Community Bancshares, Inc. (FCBC) - free report >>

Published in