BRBS vs. ASRV: Which Bank Stock Deserves a Spot in Your Portfolio?

Core Insights - Community banks are navigating a challenging environment characterized by changing interest rates, stricter regulations, and a focus on funding stability and credit discipline [1] - Blue Ridge Bankshares, Inc. (BRBS) and AmeriServ Financial, Inc. (ASRV) are highlighted as community-focused institutions with different operating models affecting their risk-return profiles [1][2] Company Overview - BRBS operates primarily through Blue Ridge Bank and is transitioning away from fintech activities to a more traditional community banking model [1] - ASRV is anchored by AmeriServ Financial Bank and has a long-standing wealth management and trust operation, enhancing its fee-based income alongside lending and deposits [1] Business Strategies - BRBS is simplifying its business model and strengthening governance through a bank-first strategy, while ASRV focuses on a relationship-driven approach supported by advisory and trust services [2] - Both companies are positioned to benefit from improved operating stability over time, but their risk-reward profiles differ [2] Stock Performance - Over the past three months, BRBS has underperformed with a 1.4% increase, while ASRV has risen by 9.3% [3] - In the past year, BRBS stock has increased by 28.5%, compared to ASRV's 20.2% gain [3] Valuation Metrics - BRBS has a trailing 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 2.71X, above its three-year median of 1.14X, while ASRV's P/S ratio is 0.62X, above its median of 0.58X [4] - Both companies appear undervalued compared to the Zacks Finance sector average of 7.11X [4] Factors Supporting BRBS - BRBS's stock is bolstered by a strategic reset that reduces complexity and narrows its risk footprint, focusing on traditional community banking fundamentals [7] - The company is making progress on regulatory compliance and governance, which is expected to enhance market confidence over time [8] - Shareholder confidence is reinforced through capital deployment actions, including a special cash dividend and share repurchase program [9] Factors Supporting ASRV - ASRV benefits from a stable, relationship-driven deposit base that is largely independent of wholesale funding, allowing it to navigate rate volatility effectively [10] - The company's wealth and trust platform diversifies income and strengthens customer relationships, supported by a strategic alliance with Federated Hermes [11] - ASRV emphasizes disciplined execution and operational efficiency, which supports a consistent earnings profile [12] Investment Outlook - While both companies are positioned to benefit from improving rate dynamics, BRBS is seen as better positioned due to its strategic reset and positive momentum [13] - BRBS's valuation remains attractive compared to sector levels, suggesting potential for upside if execution continues to improve [14] - ASRV, while performing well, has seen its stock price rise above its long-term valuation norm, narrowing its margin of safety [14]