What's Driving Bread Financial Holdings Inc's Surprising 18% Stock Rally?

Bread Financial Holdings Inc (BFH, Financial) has recently experienced a notable uptick in its stock performance. With a market capitalization of $1.72 billion, the company's shares are currently trading at $34.88. Over the past week, BFH has seen a 10.84% gain, and over the past three months, the stock has surged by 18.20%. This growth trajectory has caught the attention of investors and market analysts alike.

Revisiting Bread Financial's Market Valuation

When assessing the company's valuation, the GF Value stands at $67.46, which is a slight increase from the past GF Value of $66.32. Despite the recent gains, the current GF Valuation suggests that Bread Financial Holdings Inc may be a Possible Value Trap, advising investors to Think Twice before making any decisions. This is a shift from the previous valuation of being Significantly Undervalued three months ago.

Introduction to Bread Financial Holdings Inc

Bread Financial Holdings Inc operates within the credit services industry, providing a suite of financial products including private label and co-branded credit cards, loyalty programs, and marketing services. The company has a rich history, originating from the credit card processing unit of JCPenney and the credit card bank business of The Limited. Bread Financial's credit card business is a significant revenue driver, partnering with retailers to market its credit cards. Additionally, the company maintains a minority interest in its LoyaltyOne division, which is known for managing Canada's largest airline miles loyalty program and providing marketing services internationally.

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Assessing Profitability

Bread Financial's Profitability Rank is a robust 7 out of 10, indicating a strong position within the industry. The company's Return on Equity (ROE) is an impressive 20.80%, outperforming 88.22% of its peers. Similarly, its Return on Assets (ROA) stands at 2.40%, which is better than 58.38% of the industry. Bread Financial has also maintained profitability over the past 10 years, a testament to its financial stability and business model efficacy.

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Growth Prospects and Challenges

The company's Growth Rank is currently at 3 out of 10. Bread Financial's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate per Share is 5.60%, which is commendable and better than 54.4% of the industry. However, the 5-Year Revenue Growth Rate per Share shows a decline of 6.90%, although it still fares better than 25.23% of the industry. The Total Revenue Growth Rate (Future 3Y To 5Y Est) is estimated at -0.24%, surpassing 20.63% of the industry. The 3-Year EPS without NRI Growth Rate is 8.50%, and the EPS Growth Rate (Future 3Y To 5Y Est) is projected at 10.10%, both of which are competitive within the industry.

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Significant Shareholders

Notable investors have taken positions in Bread Financial, with Richard Pzena (Trades, Portfolio) holding 708,528 shares, representing a 1.44% share percentage. HOTCHKIS & WILEY follows with 326,810 shares, accounting for 0.66% of the shares, and Jim Simons (Trades, Portfolio) holds 252,942 shares, equating to a 0.51% share percentage. These investments by major holders underscore a vote of confidence in the company's financial health and future prospects.

Competitive Landscape

Bread Financial operates in a competitive landscape, with Enova International Inc (ENVA, Financial) having a market cap of $1.75 billion, Oaktree Specialty Lending Corp (OCSL, Financial) at $1.7 billion, and Lufax Holding Ltd (LU, Financial) at $1.4 billion. These competitors are closely matched in terms of market capitalization, indicating a tight race within the credit services industry.

Conclusion

In summary, Bread Financial Holdings Inc's recent stock performance has been impressive, with an 18.20% gain over the past three months. The company's valuation, however, suggests caution as it is currently labeled as a Possible Value Trap. Bread Financial's profitability metrics are strong, with a high ROE and ROA, and it has consistently maintained profitability over the past decade. Growth rates in revenue and EPS are mixed, with some areas showing decline while others are projected to improve. The commitment of significant shareholders and the company's competitive position within the industry add to the narrative of a company with solid foundations yet facing growth challenges. Investors should weigh these factors carefully when considering Bread Financial Holdings Inc as a potential addition to their portfolios.

This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.

Disclosures

I/We may personally own shares in some of the companies mentioned above. However, those positions are not material to either the company or to my/our portfolios.