3 reasons the Westpac (ASX:WBC) share price just hit a 52-week high

The Westpac Banking Corp (ASX:WBC) share price has just hit a 52-week high. Here's why the banking giant's shares are on fire this year…

| More on:
An investor sits at her desk and stretches her arms above her head in delight.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) share price has continued its positive run on Thursday.

In fact, at one stage today, the banking giant's shares hit a 52-week high of $25.38.

When the Westpac share price hit that level, it meant it was up a remarkable 29% since the start of the year.

Here are three reasons why the Westpac share price is flying high right now:

Strong first quarter update

One reason the Westpac share price is at a 52-week high is its strong first quarter update in February. For the three months ended 31 December, the bank posted a $1.97 billion first quarter cash profit. This was up a massive 144% over the quarterly average cash earnings of $808 million it achieved in the second half of FY 2020. Another big positive from the result was its impairment benefit of $501 million. Westpac reversed a portion of its COVID provisions due to improved credit quality, stronger economic outcomes, and a better economic outlook.

Improving dividend outlook

Also getting investors excited has been Westpac's dividend outlook. Thanks to the improving economy, a booming housing market, and the removal of dividend restrictions by APRA, Westpac and the rest of the big four banks look well-positioned to grow their dividends in the coming years. In addition to this, Westpac's exceptionally strong capital position means it could return excess funds to shareholders via buybacks in the near future.

Positive brokers

Another reason the Westpac share price is on fire this year is the bullish views of a number of leading brokers. One of those is Morgans, which earlier this week put the bank on its best ideas list for April. The broker currently has an add rating and $27.50 price target on its shares. In addition to this, going back to its improving dividend outlook, the broker is forecasting dividends of $1.32 per share in FY 2021 and then $1.43 per share in FY 2022. This represents fully franked yields of 5.2% and 5.6%, respectively.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro owns shares of Westpac Banking. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on 52-Week Highs

A piggy bank on the cloud in the blue sky symbolising a record high share price.
52-Week Highs

12 ASX 200 shares that smashed historical peak prices today

Twelve ASX 200 shares rose to new multi-year peaks in an otherwise quiet day of trading.

Read more »

A beautiful ocean vista is shown with a woman whose back is to the camera holding her arms up in triumph as she stands at the top of a rock feeling thrilled that ASX 200 shares are reaching multi-year high prices today
52-Week Highs

8 ASX 200 stocks striking multi-year highs today

These shares hit new price milestones amid a day in the green for the ASX 200.

Read more »

Five businessmen in suits walking up stairs in neat succession.
52-Week Highs

5 ASX 200 shares smashing new 52-week highs today

These five ASX 200 shares just broke into new multi-year and all-time highs. Here’s why.

Read more »

A mother and her young son are lying on the floor of their lounge sharing a tech device.
Technology Shares

Life360 shares are up more than 1,300% in 5 years. How does it compare to other apps?

Can Life360 compete with the likes of Facebook and Instagram?

Read more »

Emotional euphoric young woman giving high five to male partner, celebrating family achievement, getting bank loan approval, or financial or investing success.
52-Week Highs

5 ASX 200 shares hitting multi-year highs after strongly rebounding from tariff turmoil

These stocks have hit new price milestones amid a day in the green for the ASX 200.

Read more »

Woman laying with $100 notes around her, symbolising dividends.
52-Week Highs

Which ASX All Ords stock recently became a 10-bagger in 5 years?

Landing a 10-bagger is every investor's dream.

Read more »

Five happy friends enjoying a party.
52-Week Highs

5 ASX 200 shares smashing new 52-week highs today

The Trump tariff relief rally has helped send these five ASX 200 shares to new 52-week highs.

Read more »

Arrows pointing upwards with a man pointing his finger at one.
52-Week Highs

3 ASX All Ords shares at new 52-week highs this Friday

These shares are proving to be a safe harbour this Friday.

Read more »