Evercore ISI Raises Price Target on Pinnacle Financial (PNFP) to $116, Keeps Overweight Call

Core Viewpoint - Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc. is recognized as one of the top bank stocks to buy in 2026, with a recent price target increase by Evercore ISI to $116, reflecting positive sentiment towards the stock [1][8]. Financial Performance - The company reported a 12.5% year-over-year growth in net income available to common shareholders, reaching $166.0 million, up from $147.5 million [2]. - Diluted earnings per share increased by 11.5% year-over-year to $2.13, compared to $1.91 [2]. Revenue Drivers - Earnings growth was primarily driven by a 12.0% year-over-year increase in net interest income (NII), totaling $407.4 million, up from $363.8 million [3]. - Earning assets grew by 9.5% year-over-year to $51.7 billion, with loans accounting for 82% of this increase, rising 10.3% year-over-year to $39.2 billion [3]. Funding and Asset Growth - The asset base expansion of $4.5 billion was largely funded by a 10.0% year-over-year growth in deposits, which reached $41.9 billion, up from $38.1 billion [4]. - Longer-term debt and other funding sources increased by 9.1% year-over-year to $8.0 billion [4]. Margin and Guidance - Net interest margins (NIM) showed a modest expansion of 5 basis points year-over-year to 3.27% [4]. - Management anticipates $250 million in cost synergies from the merger with Synovus, with a projected consolidated loan book of $91-$93 billion by the end of 2026 [5]. Company Overview - Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc. operates Pinnacle Bank, providing a range of financial services including banking, investment, trust, mortgage, and insurance for both consumer and commercial clients [6].