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KBRA Affirms Ratings for Heritage Commerce Cor

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NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–KBRA affirms the senior unsecured debt rating of BBB+, the subordinated debt rating of BBB, and the short-term debt rating of K2 for San Jose, California-based Heritage Commerce Corp (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:) (“Heritage” or “the company”). In addition, KBRA affirms the deposit and senior unsecured debt ratings of A-, the subordinated debt rating of BBB+, and the short-term deposit and debt ratings of K2 for its subsidiary, Heritage Bank of Commerce. The Outlook for all long-term ratings is Stable.

Key Credit Considerations

The ratings are supported by HTBK’s conservative approach to liquidity and capital management, which has been displayed for a long period of time, with a loan-to-core deposit ratio averaging just below 75% and a CET1 ratio that has averaged 13% over the last five years (13.4% as of 1Q24). The discipline within those respective categories has left the company well positioned entering a more uncertain credit and liquidity environment within the banking industry. Despite being situated in Silicon Valley, Heritage’s deposit base has performed admirably since the bank failures in early 2023, with core balances largely flat since 1Q23, which demonstrates the resilience and strength of the relationships in our view. Moreover, the company has been able to capture some quality deposit and lending relationships from the failed institutions in footprint, which puts HTBK in a solid position for future growth. As of 1Q24, Heritage remains entirely core deposit funded when excluding relationship-based jumbo time deposits (4% of deposits) and subordinated debt, with no reliance on higher-cost brokered deposits or borrowings. With that said, we acknowledge that HTBK reflects a higher level of confidence-sensitive deposits, with uninsured deposits representing 45% of total deposits as of 1Q24. This marks a meaningful decline from 65% entering 2023, which has been reduced from the utilization of the reciprocal network. While this measure remains above peers, it is offset by ample liquidity sources, notably a higher level of cash on-balance sheet ($541 million or 10% of assets). Despite reflecting an asset sensitive balance sheet, which provided benefits at the start of the Fed’s rate hiking regime (NIM grew 111 bps during 2022 and peaked at 4.12% in 4Q22), the company has experienced considerable NIM headwinds throughout 2023/ 2024 due to the acceleration of deposit costs, in part, due to the continued mix shift (NIB down to 28% of total compared to 43% pre-pandemic) as the higher for longer rate environment has persisted. However, HTBK’s deposit beta remains among the lowest in the rating group (total cost of 1.56% during 1Q24). Moving forward, NIM is expected to stabilize around current levels (3.34% for 1Q24) with the potential for expansion later in the year as securities mature and loan growth opportunities arise. Given the reliance on spread revenues (fee income of ~5% of revenues in recent periods) the maintenance of healthy NIM is paramount. Altogether, earnings remain adequate in the context of the rating group, especially on a risk-adjusted basis when factoring in the company’s lower risk balance sheet. Credit quality in recent years has been pristine, which we believe is partially attributable to management’s prudent underwriting and robust monitoring, which is illustrated in the investor CRE portfolio, that is slightly above average (nearly 300% of total risk-based capital), with an average LTV and DSCR of 41% and 2.0x, respectively. Heritage’s exposure to the investor office sector is higher than peers at 9% of total loans, though the portfolio is granular, largely operated in suburban markets, and also reflects conservative underwriting criteria. Nonetheless, HTBK has consistently held loan loss reserves in excess of peers (1.44% of loans as of 1Q24). In addition to robust reserves, loss absorbing capacity continues to be bolstered by the company’s strong core capitalization and sound earnings capacity.

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Rating Sensitivities

An upgrade is not expected, though increased scale/market share in the current footprint, combined with a higher level of revenue diversity, while maintaining a conservative stance with capital and liquidity management could facilitate positive rating momentum over time. Conversely, a downgrade is unlikely, though any material deterioration among key financial ratios, specifically credit or liquidity issues, or more aggressive capital management, could potentially pressure the ratings.

To access rating and relevant documents, click here.

Methodologies

–  Financial Institutions: Bank & Bank Holding Company Global Rating Methodology

–  ESG Global Rating Methodology

Disclosures

A description of all substantially material sources that were used to prepare the credit rating and information on the methodology(ies) (inclusive of any material models and sensitivity analyses of the relevant key rating assumptions, as applicable) used in determining the credit rating is available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) located here.

Information on the meaning of each rating category can be located here.

Further disclosures relating to this rating action are available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) referenced above. Additional information regarding KBRA policies, methodologies, rating scales and disclosures are available at www.kbra.com.

About KBRA

Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA) is a full-service credit rating agency registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. Kroll Bond Rating Agency Europe Limited is registered as a CRA with the European Securities and Markets Authority. Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited is registered as a CRA with the UK Financial Conduct Authority. In addition, KBRA is designated as a designated rating organization by the Ontario Securities Commission for issuers of asset-backed securities to file a short form prospectus or shelf prospectus. KBRA is also recognized by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners as a Credit Rating Provider.

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1 Doc ID: 1004249

Analytical

John Rempe, Senior Director (Lead Analyst)
+1 301-969-3045 john.rempe@kbra.com

Hunter Chadwick, Analyst
+1 301-960-7042 hunter.chadwick@kbra.com

Ashley Phillips, Managing Director (Rating Committee Chair)
+1 301-969-3185 ashley.phillips@kbra.com

Business Development

Justin Fuller, Managing Director
+1 312-680-4163 justin.fuller@kbra.com

Source: Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC

Stock Markets

Sterling Construction stock soars to all-time high of $137.93

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Sterling Construction Company, Inc. (NASDAQ:) has reached an impressive milestone, with its stock price soaring to an all-time high of $137.93. This peak represents a significant achievement for the company, reflecting a robust performance and investor confidence. Over the past year, Sterling Construction has witnessed a remarkable 84.48% increase in its stock value, underscoring the company’s strong market presence and the positive reception of its strategic initiatives. Investors and market analysts alike are closely monitoring STRL’s progress, as it continues to build on its momentum in the construction sector.

In other recent news, Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. announced two key changes in its leadership. The company revealed the upcoming retirement of board member Charles R. Patton, effective from September 1, 2024. Patton, who has been a part of Sterling’s Board since 2013, will step down after over a decade of service, during which he contributed to the Corporate Governance & Nominating Committee and the Compensation Committee.

In parallel, Sterling Infrastructure named Dan Govin as its new Chief Operating Officer. Govin, who brings over three decades of experience in the energy infrastructure industry, is set to lead the company’s strategic and operational initiatives. His past roles include Regional President at Quanta Services (NYSE:) and Senior Vice President of Operations.

In related developments, Sterling Real Estate Trust, a North Dakota-based real estate investment trust, recently held its annual shareholders’ meeting. During the meeting, eight trustees were elected, including Gregory P. Hammes, Timothy L. Haugen, and Michelle L. Korsmo, among others. Additionally, the appointment of RSM US, LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, was ratified by the shareholders. These are among the latest developments at Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. and Sterling Real Estate Trust.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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Stock Markets

CRH stock soars to all-time high, reaching $91.22

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CRH (NYSE:) PLC, a global leader in building materials, has reached an all-time high, with its stock price soaring to $91.22. This significant milestone underscores the company’s robust performance and investor confidence in its growth trajectory. Over the past year, CRH has seen an impressive 66.73% increase in its stock value, reflecting strong market demand and the successful execution of its strategic initiatives. The company’s ability to achieve this record price level amidst a dynamic economic environment speaks volumes about its resilience and the positive outlook shared by its stakeholders.

In other recent news, CRH Plc has seen a series of positive developments. Stifel, a financial services firm, has increased its EBITDA projections for the company by 4% for the years 2024 and 2025, following a positive outlook on CRH’s earnings. This includes the expected contributions from the newly acquired Adbri, which is predicted to add an additional 1% and 2% to the EBITDA in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

In addition, Deutsche Bank has raised its price target for CRH, maintaining a Buy rating on the stock, following the company’s acquisition of a majority stake in Adbri. This move is anticipated to enhance CRH’s materials solutions offerings in Europe.

Furthermore, CRH has appointed Lauren Schulz as its new Chief Communications Officer, a move expected to enhance the company’s global communications strategy.

Additionally, CRH has filed a notification regarding transactions by persons discharging managerial responsibilities, providing transparency into the dealings of the company’s management.

Lastly, CRH has reported strong growth in adjusted EBITDA and margin for the second quarter of 2024, and has raised its full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance to a range of $6.82 billion to $7.02 billion. These recent developments demonstrate the company’s resilience and strategic approach in a competitive market.

InvestingPro Insights

The ascent of CRH PLC in the stock market is not just a reflection of past performance but also a beacon for future potential, as suggested by InvestingPro data and insights. With a market capitalization of $60.88 billion and a forward-looking P/E ratio of 17.69, CRH is positioned competitively within the Construction Materials industry. Its commitment to shareholder returns is evident through a consistent dividend growth, having raised its dividend for the last four years, and a dividend yield of 1.39% as of the last twelve months leading up to Q2 2024. These financial gestures indicate management’s confidence in the company’s profitability, which is further supported by a strong gross profit margin of 34.85%.

In addition to its financial health, CRH’s operational efficiency is highlighted by an EBITDA growth of 13.63% in the same period. Notably, analysts have revised their earnings upwards for the upcoming period, signaling potential for continued growth. For investors seeking more detailed analysis, there are additional InvestingPro Tips available, including insights into CRH’s share buyback strategy and its performance relative to industry peers. These tips, accessible through the InvestingPro platform, offer a comprehensive view of the company’s strengths and investment potential.

For those monitoring CRH’s trajectory, the stock is trading near its 52-week high, at 99.14% of its peak, with a previous close at $89.27. The company’s next earnings date is set for November 7, 2024, which will provide further clarity on its performance and outlook. With a fair value estimate of $101 by analysts and an InvestingPro fair value of $74.35, investors are presented with a nuanced picture of CRH’s valuation. As the market anticipates CRH’s next financial disclosures, the InvestingPro platform remains a valuable resource for real-time data and expert analysis.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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Nelnet stock soars to all-time high of $115.64 amid robust growth

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In a remarkable display of market confidence, Nelnet Inc (NYSE:) stock has achieved an all-time high, reaching a price level of $115.64. This milestone underscores a period of significant growth for the company, which has seen its stock value surge by 27.28% over the past year. Investors have rallied behind Nelnet’s strong performance, propelling the stock to new heights and reflecting optimism in the company’s future prospects. The all-time high represents not just a peak for the year but an unprecedented value in the company’s trading history, marking a momentous occasion for both Nelnet and its shareholders.

In other recent news, Nelnet Inc. has been under the spotlight following strong Q2 earnings and subsequent adjustments by TD Cowen. The firm increased Nelnet’s price target to $98.00, up from $96.00, while maintaining a Hold rating on the stock. This follows Nelnet’s Q2 2024 earnings report, which highlighted an EPS of $1.44, surpassing TD Cowen’s estimate of $1.33. The improved earnings were largely due to reduced operating expenses and a lower provision for losses. However, these gains were slightly offset by a decrease in fee income and a lower net interest income.

In recent developments, Nelnet disclosed its quarterly financial results to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The report provides a snapshot of the financial health of Nelnet Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, and includes critical data such as assets, liabilities, and income. This commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance allows investors to gauge Nelnet’s financial stability and growth prospects.

Furthermore, Nelnet’s bank subsidiary, Nelnet Bank, also disclosed its quarterly financials. The report, known as the Call Report, is a significant indicator of the subsidiary’s contribution to Nelnet’s overall financial status. This routine disclosure aligns with the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, providing a clear view of Nelnet Bank’s financial standing as of the last quarter.

InvestingPro Insights

In light of Nelnet Inc’s (NNI) recent achievement of an all-time high stock price, several InvestingPro Tips and real-time data points provide further context to the company’s financial health and market performance. Notably, Nelnet has demonstrated a robust track record by raising its dividend for 9 consecutive years and maintaining dividend payments for 18 consecutive years, which signals a strong commitment to shareholder returns. Additionally, analysts remain optimistic about the company’s profitability, expecting net income to grow this year.

From a data standpoint, Nelnet’s current market capitalization stands at $4.15 billion with a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 26.88, which adjusts to a lower ratio of 22.02 when considering the last twelve months as of Q2 2024, reflecting a more favorable valuation for investors. The company’s revenue growth has been modest at 0.7% over the last twelve months, yet it experienced a more significant quarterly surge of 12.82% as of Q2 2024. Importantly, Nelnet’s stock is trading near its 52-week high, at 99.06% of this peak, and has seen a large price uptick of 31% over the last six months. These figures underscore the company’s strong market presence and potential for continued growth.

For those interested in deeper analysis, there are additional InvestingPro Tips available at https://www.investing.com/pro/NNI, which can provide investors with more nuanced insights into Nelnet’s performance and future outlook.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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