Rocket Stock Just Hit a New 3-Year High as Trump Touts Plan for Home Affordability. Should You Buy RKT Here?

Core Viewpoint - Rocket Companies is leveraging smart technology and deep data analytics to simplify the mortgage application process and personal finance management, currently holding a market capitalization of approximately $49 billion [1]. Company Overview - Based in Detroit, Rocket has established itself as a disruptor in the homebuying and personal finance sectors, with Rocket Mortgage being one of the largest retail mortgage lenders in the U.S. The company also operates Rocket Homes, Rocket Loans, and Rocket Money, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for buyers and sellers [2]. Stock Performance - Rocket Companies (RKT) has seen significant stock performance, with shares rising nearly 10% recently, reaching a three-year high as mortgage stocks rallied. The stock has increased by 125.49% over the past 52 weeks and 69.44% over the last six months, driven by optimism surrounding the housing market [3][6]. Market Dynamics - The U.S. housing market has faced challenges with high rates and inflated prices, but recent developments, including a proposal for government purchases of mortgage-backed securities, have shifted market sentiment [5][4]. Financial Performance - In Q3, Rocket Companies reported revenue of $1.61 billion, a 148% year-over-year increase, with adjusted EPS of $0.07, slightly below last year's $0.08 but above Wall Street's expectation of $0.04. Mortgage origination volumes rose to $32.4 billion, marking a 13.7% annual increase [10][11][12]. Servicing Portfolio - Rocket's servicing portfolio totaled $613 billion in unpaid principal balance, generating approximately $1.7 billion in recurring servicing fee income annually, providing financial stability [13]. Technological Advancements - The company has introduced AI-driven tools to enhance efficiency for loan officers and brokers, improving underwriting processes and lead management [14]. Analyst Outlook - Analysts have mixed views on Rocket's future, with expectations of a profit decline in fiscal 2025 but a projected EPS growth of 928.6% in fiscal 2026. JPMorgan has resumed coverage with a "Neutral" rating and a $24 price target, acknowledging the potential for new revenue streams from recent acquisitions [15][17][18]. Consensus Rating - Wall Street analysts have upgraded RKT stock to a consensus "Moderate Buy," with five analysts suggesting a "Strong Buy" and nine maintaining a "Hold" rating. The stock has surpassed the average price target of $21.50, with a potential upside indicated by Jefferies' target of $25 [19].