Possible NIM Expansion And Stable Asset Quality Make First BanCorp A Buy

  • First BanCorp offers an attractive entry point, with near-term NIM tailwinds and stable asset quality supporting a buy rating, despite geographic concentration risks. Recent results show strong NII growth, improved efficiency ratio, and deposit resilience, offsetting modest loan book contraction and a one-off NPA increase. Ongoing asset repricing should drive further NIM expansion and higher ROE, enhancing profitability as efficiency initiatives take hold.