Here's Why You Should Add Northern Trust Stock to Your Portfolio Now

Core Insights - Northern Trust Corporation (NTRS) successfully passed the Federal Reserve's 2025 stress test, maintaining a 2.5% Stress Capital Buffer, indicating a strong capital position and resilience against severe economic downturns [1][3] - Analysts have revised earnings growth estimates for NTRS upward for 2024 and 2025, reflecting optimism about the company's financial performance [2] Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NTRS's earnings per share (EPS) for 2025 is projected at $8.18, with a year-over-year growth estimate of 6.23% [12] - Over the past three to five years, NTRS's EPS has increased by 3.1%, with a projected growth rate of 6.2% in the near term [8][11] - The company reported a return on equity (ROE) of 13% in the first quarter of 2025, indicating consistent profitability and operational efficiency [16] Dividend and Share Repurchase - Following the stress test, NTRS plans to increase its quarterly dividend by 7% to $0.80 per share starting in Q3 2025, subject to board approval, with a current dividend yield of 2.34% [4] - NTRS has an active share repurchase program, having repurchased $287 million worth of shares in Q1 2025, with $25 million authorized for buybacks [6] Growth Drivers - The company has experienced a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% in total revenues from 2020 to 2024, supported by increases in net interest income (NII) and non-interest income [12][14] - Loan and lease balances grew at a CAGR of 6.7% during the same period, with expectations for a rebound in loan activity as the client base expands [13][14] - The launch of Family Office Solutions in April 2025 aims to attract ultra-high-net-worth clients, enhancing revenue potential [14] Cost Management - Northern Trust is implementing cost optimization measures, including disciplined headcount management and process automation, to enhance productivity and achieve financial objectives [15] - The company has maintained a solid liquidity position, with deposits totaling $52 billion compared to total debt of $12 billion, supporting its financial flexibility [7] Market Performance - Over the past year, NTRS shares have increased by 53.1%, outperforming the industry growth of 28.6% [17] - NTRS currently holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating positive market sentiment [20]