Hancock Whitney (HWC) Q4 Earnings on the Horizon: Analysts' Insights on Key Performance Measures

Core Viewpoint - Hancock Whitney (HWC) is expected to report quarterly earnings of $1.48 per share, a 5.7% increase year-over-year, with revenues projected at $389.33 million, reflecting a 6.7% increase compared to the same period last year [1]. Earnings Estimates - The consensus EPS estimate has been revised 1% higher over the last 30 days, indicating a collective reevaluation by analysts [2]. - Changes in earnings estimates are crucial for predicting investor reactions, as empirical studies show a strong relationship between earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock performance [3]. Key Financial Metrics - The consensus estimate for 'Net interest margin (TE)' is 3.5%, up from 3.4% in the same quarter last year [5]. - Analysts estimate an 'Efficiency Ratio' of 55.0%, compared to 54.5% a year ago [5]. - 'Average Balance - Total interest earning assets' is projected to reach $32.65 billion, up from $32.33 billion year-over-year [5]. Nonperforming Loans and Assets - 'Total nonperforming loans' are forecasted to reach $112.23 million, up from $97.34 million in the same quarter last year [6]. - 'Total nonperforming assets' are expected to be $123.73 million, slightly down from $125.13 million a year ago [6]. Noninterest Income - 'Total Noninterest Income' is projected at $103.11 million, compared to $91.21 million in the same quarter last year [7]. - 'Net interest income (TE)' is expected to be $289.81 million, up from $276.29 million year-over-year [7]. - 'Bank card and ATM fees' are estimated to reach $21.96 million, compared to $21.40 million last year [8]. - 'Investment and annuity fees and insurance commissions' are projected at $12.81 million, up from $10.90 million year-over-year [8]. Other Income and Service Charges - 'Other income' is expected to be $15.35 million, compared to $14.73 million in the same quarter last year [9]. - 'Service charges on deposit accounts' are projected to reach $25.28 million, up from $23.45 million a year ago [9]. Stock Performance - Shares of Hancock Whitney have returned +1.8% over the past month, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +2.1% change, with a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) indicating expected performance in line with the overall market [10].