Highlights
- Principal Financial Group Inc. decreased its stake in First American Financial Co. by 0.8% during the fourth quarter.
- Several institutional investors have adjusted their holdings, contributing to FAF's ownership landscape.
- First American Financial Co. saw positive quarterly earnings results, exceeding consensus estimates.
In the latest developments regarding First American Financial Co. (NYSE:FAF), Principal Financial Group Inc. made a subtle reduction of 0.8% in its holdings during the fourth quarter, as per the company's recent SEC 13F filing. This adjustment left Principal Financial with 236,082 shares valued at $14,741,000.
Other institutional investors have also been active. Bar Harbor Wealth Management enhanced its stake by 43.6%, bringing its total to 96,627 shares worth $6,033,000. Barclays PLC increased its position by 15.2%, resulting in ownership of 60,821 shares worth $4,016,000. Meanwhile, JPMorgan Chase & Co. added 5.1% more shares, totaling 214,820, worth $14,180,000. Newcomer Oak Thistle LLC acquired a fresh position valued at approximately $1,476,000.
Analyst Ratings and Recent Transactions
Analysts have varied in their outlooks on FAF, with several reports influencing investor perspectives. Stephens upgraded its price objective to $78.00, awarding an "overweight" rating. Similarly, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods elevated their target to $75.00, conferring a "market perform" status. Current consensus positions FAF with a "Moderate Buy" rating and an average target price of $74.50.
Significant insider activity includes the sale of 111,971 shares by Director Dennis J. Gilmore at an average price of $63.60, alongside CFO Mark Edward Seaton’s sale of 12,679 shares at $64.28. These transactions reflect a strategic reduction in their equity positions, while insiders maintain a 3.70% stake in the company.
Performance Metrics and Dividend Announcement
Opening at $64.63 on Thursday, FAF's stock sustains a 50-day moving average of $62.52. The company has achieved a PE ratio of 51.70 with a market capitalization of $6.66 billion. Its trading range spans from a low of $51.60 to a high of $70.92 over the past twelve months.
During its quarterly earnings report, FAF posted earnings of $1.35 per share, outperforming consensus expectations by $0.22. With a projected EPS of 5.35 for the fiscal year, the company demonstrates robust operational momentum. Furthermore, FAF announced a quarterly dividend of $0.54 per share, positioning the annual yield at 3.34%, with a payout ratio standing at a notable 172.80%.
Business Segments and Future Outlook
First American Financial Corp. operates mainly through two segments: Title Insurance and Services, and Home Warranty. The Title Insurance segment provides comprehensive coverage and related services for residential and commercial properties, with a strong international presence. With analysts keeping a keen eye on FAF's trajectory, its adaptability in the evolving financial landscape garners significant investor interest.