First Western(US:MYFW) ZACKS·2026-01-08 18:00Core Viewpoint - First Western (MYFW) has received an upgrade to a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), indicating a positive trend in earnings estimates which is a significant factor influencing stock prices [1][3]. Earnings Estimates and Ratings - The Zacks rating system is based solely on a company's changing earnings picture, tracking the Zacks Consensus Estimate for EPS from sell-side analysts [2]. - The Zacks rating upgrade for First Western reflects an improved earnings outlook, which is expected to positively impact its stock price [3][5]. Impact of Earnings Estimate Revisions - Changes in a company's future earnings potential, as shown by earnings estimate revisions, are strongly correlated with near-term stock price movements [4][6]. - Institutional investors utilize earnings estimates to determine the fair value of stocks, leading to significant price movements based on their buying or selling actions [4]. Performance Metrics - First Western is projected to earn $1.48 per share for the fiscal year ending December 2025, with no year-over-year change, but the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased by 4.7% over the past three months [8]. - The Zacks Rank system has a strong track record, with Zacks Rank 1 stocks averaging an annual return of +25% since 1988 [7]. Positioning and Market Potential - The upgrade to Zacks Rank 1 places First Western in the top 5% of Zacks-covered stocks, indicating a strong potential for market-beating returns in the near term [10].