Is SouthState Bank (SSB) One of the Best Affordable Long Term Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds?

Core Insights - SouthState Bank Corporation (NYSE: SSB) is recognized as one of the best affordable long-term stocks to buy according to hedge funds [1][3] - Analyst Russell Gunther from Stephens maintained an Overweight rating on SouthState and raised the price target to $120 from $110, citing a core pre-provision net revenue (PPNR) of $323.5 million, which exceeded consensus estimates by 1.5% or $0.03 per share [1][2] - The bank's net interest income grew by 2.7% quarter over quarter, and the core net interest margin increased by two basis points to 3.86%, both above consensus estimates [2] Financial Performance - SouthState's PPNR performance was supported by stronger net interest income and correspondent banking/capital markets fees, although higher expenses partially offset this effect [1] - The 2026 PPNR estimate for SouthState was raised by 1.5% due to differentiated fee income momentum [2] - Raymond James also raised its price target on SouthState shares to $120 from $115, maintaining a Strong Buy rating, as the bank's December-ending quarter results were well ahead of expectations [2] Company Overview - SouthState Bank Corporation is a regional financial services company headquartered in Florida, providing consumer, commercial, mortgage, and wealth management solutions to over 1.5 million customers across the Southeast and beyond [2]