First Financial Bancorp (FFBC) Now Trades Above Golden Cross: Time to Buy?

Core Viewpoint - First Financial Bancorp. (FFBC) is showing potential for a bullish breakout due to a recent "golden cross" in its moving averages, indicating a favorable technical setup for investors [1]. Technical Indicators - FFBC's 50-day simple moving average has crossed above its 200-day simple moving average, forming a "golden cross," which is a bullish signal for traders [1]. - A successful golden cross event consists of three stages: a price decline bottoming out, the shorter moving average crossing above the longer moving average, and the stock maintaining upward momentum [2]. Performance Metrics - Over the past four weeks, FFBC has experienced a gain of 10.9%, suggesting positive market sentiment [3]. - The company currently holds a 2 (Buy) rating on the Zacks Rank, further indicating potential for a breakout [3]. Earnings Expectations - There have been two upward revisions in earnings expectations for the current quarter, with no downward changes in the past 60 days, which supports the bullish outlook [3]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FFBC has also increased, reinforcing investor confidence in the stock's upward trend [3]. Investment Consideration - Given the significant technical indicator and the positive movement in earnings estimates, FFBC is recommended for inclusion on investors' watchlists [5].