SLM:NASDAQSLM Corporation Analysis
Data as of 2026-05-01 - not real-time
$23.08
Latest Price
7/10Risk
Risk Level: Medium
Executive Summary
SLM trades at a trailing P/E of 6.4, well below the industry average of 17.6, suggesting significant undervaluation. The price‑to‑book ratio sits at 2.09, aligning with sector norms. A dividend yield of 2.25% with a payout ratio of 14% indicates a comfortable dividend. Beta of 1.14 and 30‑day volatility of 25.9% point to higher price swings. RSI at 58 and a bullish MACD histogram of 0.066 signal modest momentum. Support at $20.72 and resistance at $24.63 frame the current price of $23.08.
Recent Q1 2026 earnings beat expectations and management raised full‑year EPS guidance. Compass Point upgraded its outlook from Sell to Neutral, reflecting improved sentiment. However, overdue loan rates rose to 3.98% YoY and provisions increased, highlighting credit risk. Operating cash flow is negative, but the company holds $5.2 bn in cash against $6.2 bn debt, yielding a high cash cushion. The dividend is scheduled with ex‑date June 4, adding near‑term income appeal. Upside potential of ~25% versus downside ~25% gives a balanced risk‑reward profile.
Recent Q1 2026 earnings beat expectations and management raised full‑year EPS guidance. Compass Point upgraded its outlook from Sell to Neutral, reflecting improved sentiment. However, overdue loan rates rose to 3.98% YoY and provisions increased, highlighting credit risk. Operating cash flow is negative, but the company holds $5.2 bn in cash against $6.2 bn debt, yielding a high cash cushion. The dividend is scheduled with ex‑date June 4, adding near‑term income appeal. Upside potential of ~25% versus downside ~25% gives a balanced risk‑reward profile.
Market Outlook
Short Term
< 1 yearNeutral
Model confidence: 6/10
Key Factors
- Technical momentum is modestly bullish (MACD, RSI)
- Recent earnings beat and guidance raise
- High volatility and credit‑risk concerns
Medium Term
1–3 yearsPositive
Model confidence: 8/10
Key Factors
- Significant valuation discount vs industry
- Sustainable dividend with low payout ratio
- Improving sentiment from analyst upgrade
Long Term
> 3 yearsPositive
Model confidence: 9/10
Key Factors
- Strong cash position relative to debt
- Long‑term demand for education financing
- Undervalued fundamentals supporting upside potential
Key Metrics & Analysis
Financial Health
Revenue Growth2.50%
Profit Margin44.93%
P/E Ratio6.4
ROE30.93%
ROA2.57%
Debt/Equity253.08
P/B Ratio2.1
Op. Cash Flow$-328494016
Industry P/E17.6
Technical Analysis
TrendNeutral
RSI58.2
Support$20.72
Resistance$24.63
MA 20$22.48
MA 50$21.15
MA 200$26.65
MACDBullish
VolumeIncreasing
Fear & Greed Index90.96
Valuation
Target Price$28.91
Upside/Downside25.26%
GradeUndervalued
TypeValue
Dividend Yield2.25%
Risk Assessment
Beta1.14
Volatility25.90%
Sector RiskMedium
Reg. RiskHigh
Geo RiskLow
Currency RiskLow
Liquidity RiskMedium
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This analysis may contain inaccuracies and is provided for informational and research purposes only. It is not personal investment advice, a recommendation, or an instruction to buy, sell, or hold any asset.