Banking on Banks

With another quarter of missed earnings, analysts began cutting their price target for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (TSX: CM, Friday’s close $78.45). CIBC reported a profit of $678 million or $1.60 per share. Up from the same period last year, but well off the $1.80 estimate that analysts had been forecasting.

The problem at CIBC was the same as it was at other banks. Loan margins being squeezed by increasing domestic competition. But CIBC, with its large depositor base, relies almost entirely on its ability to compete domestically. Which is why it was hit harder than other banks.

Of course when one cuts their price target for a Canadian bank, it is anything but earth shattering. UBS analysts Peter Rosenberg, cut his one year price target to $88 per share from $90 per share, but maintained his “buy” rating. Peter Routledge the bank analyst at National Bank cut his target from $91 to $89. Although he hedged his position with a “sector perform” rating on the company, down from “outperform.”

Within any sector there will be bumps in the road. The real question is how likely is it that Canadian bank stocks will continue their downtrend? In that light, it is hard to imagine much downside when you consider that CIBC is yielding 4.5% based on their current dividend. Let’s face it, despite short term reservations, Canadian banks are well-capitalized and among the best in the world.

Another consideration is the recent weakness in the North American markets. If this soft patch continues, investors with itchy trigger fingers, may seek out defensive alternatives. And for “safe haven” alternatives, one naturally gravitates to high dividend paying stocks, like utilities, pharmaceuticals and dare we say it, banks.

Mind you, soft patches are a two-edged sword. While investors may seek out defensive alternatives, economic weakness will ultimately thwart any real recovery in stock prices over the near term. And that includes Canadian banks.

With that in mind, investors who own CIBC might look at writing covered calls. Or for investors who are looking for some shelter, could buy CIBC and write the October 82 calls at $1.50.

If you are more aggressive, and think there is a possibility of a turnaround in they sector, you might look at buying calls on a broad Canadian bank ETF, such as the iShares S&P/TSX Capped Financials Index Fund (TSX: XFN, $23.95). Look at the XFN Sept 24 calls at 72 cents.