Market Data 
On Monday, Piper Sandler assumed coverage on First Business Financial (NASDAQ:) Services, Inc. (NASDAQ:FBIZ), assigning an Overweight rating with a price target of $44. The firm based this target on an 8.5 times multiple of their estimated 2025 earnings per share (EPS), which aligns closely with the average of peers at 8.9 times.
First Business Financial, with $3.5 billion in assets, operates a branch-lite model across four full-service locations in the most populous metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) of Wisconsin and in Kansas City. The bank focuses primarily on commercial banking while also offering wealth management services.
The bank’s approach is described as client-centric and holistic, which, according to Piper Sandler, contributes to its high quality. First Business Financial also runs specialty verticals that enhance revenue diversity, create opportunities for organic loan growth, and maintain a superior net interest margin (NIM) through economic cycles.
Piper Sandler expressed confidence in the bank’s prospective price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple expansion, suggesting it could align with its peers. This potential increase is in contrast to the current discount of 2 to 3 times on the company’s estimated 2024 and 2025 earnings.
The firm anticipates continued solid profitability for First Business Financial, with projected returns on average assets (ROAs) and returns on tangible common equity (ROTCEs) of approximately 1.1% and 14%-15%, respectively, in their 2024 and 2025 estimates. These projections are supported by a proven balance sheet strategy, attractive organic growth, and favorable credit quality.
InvestingPro Insights
Amidst Piper Sandler’s optimistic coverage on First Business Financial Services, Inc. (NASDAQ:FBIZ), InvestingPro offers additional insights that could be of interest to investors. With a market capitalization of $282.42 million, the company presents a P/E ratio of 7.83, which is slightly below the adjusted P/E ratio for the last twelve months as of Q4 2023, standing at 8.02. This valuation metric suggests that FBIZ is currently trading at a reasonable price relative to its earnings.
When it comes to profitability, FBIZ has demonstrated a solid track record, being profitable over the last twelve months. This aligns with Piper Sandler’s expectations of continued solid profitability for the company. Additionally, FBIZ has raised its dividend for 11 consecutive years, signaling a commitment to returning value to shareholders. This is further underscored by the fact that the company has maintained dividend payments for 20 consecutive years, with a notable dividend yield of 2.94%.
Investors should note that while the company has been profitable and has a history of dividend growth, InvestingPro Tips reveal that 4 analysts have revised their earnings downwards for the upcoming period. This suggests that while the company’s past performance has been strong, there may be challenges ahead that could impact its earnings potential.
Lastly, for those interested in a deeper analysis, there are additional InvestingPro Tips available on the company, including insights on gross profit margins and profitability predictions for this year. To access these and other valuable tips, visit and use coupon code PRONEWS24 to get an additional 10% off a yearly or biyearly Pro and Pro+ subscription. There are currently 6 additional tips listed on InvestingPro for FBIZ that could further inform investment decisions.
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