What's Driving LendingClub Corp's Surprising 72% Stock Rally?

LendingClub Corp (LC, Financial) has recently caught the attention of investors with its notable stock performance. The company's market capitalization stands at $1.07 billion, with a current stock price of $9.78. Over the past week, LendingClub's stock has gained 1.63%, and looking at a broader timeframe, it has surged an impressive 72.39% over the past three months. According to GuruFocus's valuation metrics, the stock is currently modestly undervalued with a GF Value of $12.4, compared to a past GF Value of $14.01. This indicates a shift from being significantly undervalued three months ago to its current state.

Introduction to LendingClub Corp

LendingClub Corp operates within the credit services industry, providing an innovative online lending marketplace platform. This platform facilitates the connection between borrowers and investors, democratizing access to an asset class traditionally reserved for institutional investors. LendingClub offers a variety of loan products, including personal, education, small business, and auto loans. The company primarily generates revenue through transaction fees associated with loan originations on behalf of its bank partners. 1752712695322406912.png

Assessing LendingClub's Profitability

When it comes to profitability, LendingClub Corp has a Profitability Rank of 3 out of 10, as of September 30, 2023. The company's return on equity (ROE) is 4.45%, which is better than 41.01% of 517 companies in the same industry. Its return on assets (ROA) stands at 0.65%, surpassing 37.27% of 542 companies. Over the past decade, LendingClub has been profitable for three years, which is more favorable than 11.82% of 516 companies. 1752712713559240704.png

Growth Trajectory of LendingClub Corp

The company's Growth Rank is 5 out of 10. LendingClub's 3-year revenue growth rate per share is 10.20%, outperforming 64.34% of 488 companies. Its 5-year revenue growth rate per share is 8.10%, which is better than 59.58% of 428 companies. However, the estimated total revenue growth rate for the next 3 to 5 years is projected at -2.01%, which still ranks better than 14.29% of 63 companies. The 3-year EPS without NRI growth rate is a staggering 313.10%, placing LendingClub ahead of 99.24% of 396 companies. 1752712731833823232.png

Key Shareholders in LendingClub Corp

Notable investors have taken positions in LendingClub Corp, with Jim Simons (Trades, Portfolio) leading the pack holding 1,603,207 shares, which translates to a 1.46% share percentage. Following him is Paul Tudor Jones (Trades, Portfolio) with 73,254 shares, representing 0.07% of the company, and Caxton Associates (Trades, Portfolio) with 68,566 shares, accounting for 0.06%.

Competitive Landscape

In comparison to its competitors, LendingClub Corp stands out with a higher market capitalization. World Acceptance Corp (WRLD, Financial) has a market cap of $781.470 million, Green Dot Corp (GDOT, Financial) is valued at $482.562 million, and Runway Growth Finance Corp (RWAY, Financial) has a market cap of $545.053 million. These figures highlight LendingClub's stronger market position within the credit services industry.

Conclusion

In summary, LendingClub Corp's recent stock performance has been remarkable, with a significant 72.39% increase over the past three months. The company's current valuation suggests it is modestly undervalued, presenting a potential opportunity for investors. LendingClub's profitability and growth metrics, although mixed, show a company with a solid revenue growth trajectory and an exceptional 3-year EPS growth rate. The presence of high-profile investors like Jim Simons (Trades, Portfolio) adds a layer of confidence in the stock. When placed in the context of its competitors, LendingClub's market cap dominance is evident, indicating a strong position in the credit services market. Investors should keep an eye on LendingClub Corp as it continues to navigate the dynamic financial services landscape.

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.