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Business First (BFST) 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.
Analysts' growing optimism on the earnings prospects of this company is driving estimates higher, which 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.
For Business First, there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising earnings estimates, which has helped push consensus estimates considerably higher for the next quarter and full year.
Current-Quarter Estimate Revisions
The company is expected to earn $0.45 per share for the current quarter, which represents a year-over-year change of -31.82%.
Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Business First has increased 5.43% because two estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions.
Current-Year Estimate Revisions
The company is expected to earn $2.26 per share for the full year, which represents a change of -13.74% from the prior-year number.
In terms of estimate revisions, the trend for the current year also appears quite encouraging for Business First. Over the past month, three estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions, helping the consensus estimate increase 5.86%.
Favorable Zacks Rank
The promising estimate revisions have helped Business First earn a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong 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 Business First have attracted decent investments and pushed the stock 8.9% 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.