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Blue Ridge Bankshares Gains 8.6% in 3 Months: How to Play the Stock?
ZACKS· 2025-11-27 19:05
Core Viewpoint - Blue Ridge Bankshares, Inc. (BRBS) has shown short-term stock gains of 8.6% over the past three months, outperforming the industry and major indices despite recent challenges in the banking sector [1][2][7] Recent Developments - The company received notification from its primary regulator terminating a Consent Order, which is a positive regulatory development [2] - BRBS reported a solid increase in net interest income and noninterest income in its third-quarter 2025 results, aided by a one-time recovery from troubled credits and improved fee-driven revenue [2] Strategic Focus - Management is focused on balance-sheet de-risking, including exiting fintech-related deposits and reducing non-core loan exposure, positioning BRBS for traditional core-banking growth [3][10] - The bank is enhancing its core funding base by shifting towards relationship-driven retail and commercial deposits, reducing reliance on wholesale funding [11] Market Position - BRBS operates as a community banking franchise in Virginia and North Carolina, leveraging its local presence to support steady deposit inflows and relationship-based lending [8][12] - The company is reinforcing its community banking platform through a renewed focus on commercial banking and leadership [12] Challenges - BRBS faces competition from larger banks, credit unions, and fintechs, which may limit growth and pricing flexibility [13] - The transition away from indirect fintech lending relationships presents operational complexities and elevated cleanup-related expenses [13] Valuation - BRBS's trailing 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) ratio is 2.7X, higher than the industry average of 2.2X and its three-year median of 1.1X, indicating a demanding valuation compared to peers [16][18] Investment Outlook - The company exhibits strong core business strength and growth prospects, making it attractive for both existing and new investors [19] - However, the current valuation suggests limited upside potential unless core growth and profitability continue to improve [20]