QFIN Stock Skyrockets 129% in a Year: Is It Still Worth Buying?

Core Viewpoint - Qifu Technology, Inc. (QFIN) has demonstrated exceptional stock performance, significantly outperforming its industry and competitors over the past year and six months, driven by strong financial metrics and strategic initiatives [1][4][17]. Company Performance - QFIN stock has increased by 129% over the past year, compared to a 36.8% rise in the industry and 11.4% growth in the Zacks S&P 500 composite [1]. - In the last six months, QFIN has gained 52.4%, while the industry rose by 7.3%, and competitors N-able and NV5 Global saw declines of 22.3% and 11.3%, respectively [4]. - As of the last trading session, QFIN closed at $46.05, down 6.3% from its 52-week high of $48.94 [4]. Financial Strength - Qifu Technology reported strong cash reserves of $1.4 billion at the end of Q4 2024, with only $188 million in current debt, indicating a healthy financial position [10]. - The current ratio of 2.45 exceeds the industry average of 1.76, reflecting the company's ability to meet short-term obligations, with a 22.5% increase from the previous year [11]. - The return on equity stands at 27.3%, significantly higher than the industry average of 5.5%, showcasing exceptional profitability and efficient capital use [13]. Growth Catalysts - China's consumption-driven policies, aimed at boosting income and reducing burdens, serve as a growth catalyst for QFIN [6]. - The company has integrated AI into its operations, leading to a 25.1% improvement in user outreach and a 10% reduction in the average cost per credit line user [8]. - QFIN's loan portfolio, primarily in credit cards, mortgages, and auto loans, aligns well with government initiatives to enhance consumer lending [7]. Valuation and Prospects - QFIN stock is currently priced at 6.4 times forward 12-month earnings per share, significantly lower than the industry average of 24.2 times [15]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects 2025 revenues at $2.4 billion, reflecting a 2.2% increase, and 2026 revenues at $2.7 billion, indicating a 12.4% year-over-year rise [16]. - Earnings estimates for 2025 are pegged at $6.93 per share, a 22.4% increase from the prior year, with 2026 earnings expected to reach $7.77 per share, suggesting a 12% year-over-year rise [16].