12:46 PM EST, 02/06/2025 (MT Newswires) -- National Bank has raised its one year target on Great-West Lifeco ( GWLIF ) to $53 (from $51) and kept its Sector Perform rating, after the company reported fourth-quarter underlying EPS of $1.20, beating National Bank's $1.11 estimate and consensus of $1.14. Reported EPS of $1.20 exceeded National Bank's $1.13 estimate and consensus of $1.16.

"GWO finished 2024 on a strong note, with better-than-expected results underpinned by strength in its U.S. franchise," notes analyst Gabriel Dechaine. The company reported another ROE figure above its 16-17% target range. Dechaine expects an updated target closer to 20% at its upcoming Investor Day.

GWO's flexible balance sheet positions it to advance the roll-up strategy in its at-scale Empower retirement business, Dechaine adds.

Price: 51.68, Change: +4.21, Percent Change: +8.87