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First United Corp. (FUNC)
NASDAQ:FUNC

First United (FUNC) AI Stock Analysis

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FUNC

First United

(NASDAQ:FUNC)

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Outperform 73 (OpenAI - 5.2)
Rating:73Outperform
Price Target:
$44.00
â–²(19.66% Upside)
The score is driven mainly by steady financial quality (strong margins, improved leverage, solid cash conversion) and supportive technical momentum (price above key moving averages with positive MACD). Valuation and corporate actions (low P/E, dividend, sizable buyback) add support, while the key risk factor remains the significant TTM revenue decline.
Positive Factors
Strong Profitability and Operational Efficiency
Sustained high net (21%) and EBIT (27.9%) margins indicate durable operating leverage and pricing power in core lending and fee businesses. This supports internally funded growth, cushions against credit cost swings, and sustains return on equity over the medium term.
Reliable Cash Generation
Strong cash conversion (OCF/net income ~0.96) and positive FCF growth support recurring lending, reserve funding and shareholder distributions. Consistent cash generation improves capital flexibility and reduces reliance on external financing for 2–6 month strategic moves.
Record Core Earnings, Capital Return and Orderly Succession
Record core earnings, a declared cash dividend and board-authorized buyback signal disciplined capital allocation. Combined with a planned internal CEO succession described as orderly, this supports continuity in strategy execution and ongoing shareholder-focused policy.
Negative Factors
Material Recent Revenue Decline
A 22.8% TTM revenue drop materially reduces top-line scale and could indicate weaker loan origination or fee activity. Unless revenue recovery is sustained, margins and growth initiatives may face pressure, constraining long-term earnings momentum.
Historical Free Cash Flow Volatility
Although FCF improved recently, historical volatility in free cash flow can complicate capital planning and make dividends/buybacks less predictable. Variable cash generation increases vulnerability to funding stress during adverse economic periods.
Geographic Concentration Risk
Concentration in the Mid-Atlantic ties asset quality and loan demand to regional economic cycles. Limited geographic diversification raises sensitivity to local downturns, potentially amplifying credit and deposit volatility versus more diversified peers.

First United (FUNC) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

First United Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionFirst United Corporation operates as the bank holding company for First United Bank & Trust that provides various retail and commercial banking services to businesses and individuals. The company offers various deposit products, including checking accounts, savings and money market accounts, regular and individual retirement accounts (IRA) certificates of deposit, Christmas savings accounts, college savings accounts, and health savings accounts; Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service program and Insured Cash Sweep program to municipalities, businesses, and consumers; and commercial customers packages, which include treasury management, cash sweep, and various checking opportunities. It also provides loans, such as commercial loans secured by real estate, commercial equipment, vehicles, or other assets of the borrower; commercial real estate loans for residential and commercial development, agricultural purpose properties, and service industry buildings; residential mortgage loans; home equity lines of credit; residential real estate construction loans; and indirect and direct auto loans, student loans, term loans, and other secured and unsecured lines of credit and term loans. In addition, the company offers various trust services, including personal trust, investment agency accounts, charitable trusts, retirement accounts that consist of IRA roll-overs, 401(k) accounts and defined benefit plans, estate administration, and estate planning services; insurance products; brokerage services; and safe deposit and night depository facilities. It operates 26 banking offices, one customer care center, and 34 automated teller machines in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties in Maryland; and in Mineral, Berkeley, Monongalia, and Harrison counties in West Virginia. First United Corporation was founded in 1900 and is headquartered in Oakland, Maryland.
How the Company Makes MoneyFirst United generates revenue primarily through interest income from loans and investments, as well as non-interest income from fees associated with various banking services. Key revenue streams include interest earned on commercial and personal loans, mortgage lending, and income from investment securities. Additionally, the bank earns fees from wealth management services, service charges on deposit accounts, and transaction fees. Significant partnerships with local businesses and community organizations enhance its customer base and service offerings, contributing to customer loyalty and sustained revenue growth.

First United Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Solid profitability and operational efficiency (net margin 21.0%, EBIT margin 27.9%) and improved leverage (debt-to-equity 0.59), supported by good cash conversion (operating cash flow to net income 0.96). The main offset is the notable TTM revenue decline (-22.8%) and historical free-cash-flow volatility.
Income Statement
72
Positive
First United's income statement shows a mixed performance. The TTM data indicates a significant revenue decline of 22.8%, which is concerning. However, the company maintains a healthy net profit margin of 21.0% and an EBIT margin of 27.9%, suggesting strong operational efficiency. Historical data shows fluctuating revenue growth, with a peak in 2022. Despite the recent downturn, profitability metrics remain robust.
Balance Sheet
65
Positive
The balance sheet reflects a moderate financial position. The debt-to-equity ratio has improved to 0.59 in the TTM period, indicating reduced leverage compared to previous years. Return on equity is stable at 13.2%, showing effective use of equity. However, the equity ratio is relatively low, suggesting a higher reliance on debt financing, which could pose risks if market conditions worsen.
Cash Flow
68
Positive
Cash flow analysis reveals a positive trend with a 10.7% growth in free cash flow in the TTM period. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is strong at 0.96, indicating good cash generation relative to profits. However, historical fluctuations in free cash flow growth highlight potential volatility in cash management.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue118.77M111.80M95.61M80.44M78.61M76.92M
Gross Profit83.66M76.87M69.75M76.28M73.72M61.86M
EBITDA36.16M31.02M24.39M36.83M29.74M21.34M
Net Income24.92M20.57M15.06M25.05M19.77M13.84M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets2.02B1.97B1.91B1.85B1.73B1.73B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments112.23M149.94M146.92M200.20M402.49M376.32M
Total Debt117.29M187.72M157.90M97.87M91.39M153.05M
Total Liabilities1.82B1.79B1.74B1.70B1.59B1.60B
Stockholders Equity199.10M179.29M161.87M151.79M141.90M131.05M
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow16.45M20.36M22.12M22.97M18.89M14.56M
Operating Cash Flow18.72M22.28M22.47M26.54M20.02M16.17M
Investing Cash Flow-64.05M-38.44M-81.71M-172.40M-28.43M-191.28M
Financing Cash Flow78.11M44.73M34.68M104.46M-25.31M274.56M

First United Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price36.77
Price Trends
50DMA
38.41
Positive
100DMA
37.12
Positive
200DMA
34.51
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.30
Negative
RSI
57.47
Neutral
STOCH
85.10
Negative
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For FUNC, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 36.77 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 38.16, below the 50-day MA of 38.41, and above the 200-day MA of 34.51, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.30 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 57.47 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 85.10 is Negative, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for FUNC.

First United Risk Analysis

First United disclosed 40 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. First United reported the most risks in the "Finance & Corporate" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

First United Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (68)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
75
Outperform
$278.15M11.5112.29%1.99%5.50%-5.19%
73
Outperform
$254.81M10.4013.36%2.38%11.72%55.87%
72
Outperform
$289.76M18.825.51%2.18%7.37%27.35%
70
Outperform
$345.74M10.5012.18%4.21%-4.66%-58.94%
68
Neutral
$18.00B11.429.92%3.81%9.73%1.22%
64
Neutral
$284.86M13.028.87%0.87%16.68%322.32%
* Financial Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
FUNC
First United
39.41
3.88
10.92%
NWFL
Norwood Financial
31.66
6.42
25.42%
OVLY
Oak Valley Bancorp [Ca]
33.41
8.48
34.03%
WNEB
Western New England Bancorp
14.19
4.99
54.26%
FVCB
FVCBankcorp
15.72
3.28
26.33%
FBLA
FB Bancorp, Inc.
13.60
2.14
18.67%

First United Corporate Events

Business Operations and StrategyDividendsFinancial Disclosures
First United Reports Record 2025 Earnings and Dividend
Positive
Feb 4, 2026

On February 4, 2026, First United Corporation reported its financial results for the three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2025, highlighting record core earnings on a non-GAAP basis. Full-year GAAP net income rose to $24.5 million, or $3.77 per diluted share, from $20.6 million, or $3.15 per diluted share, in 2024, while non-GAAP net income increased to $25.8 million, or $3.97 per diluted share, reflecting strong net interest margin, robust commercial and residential loan production, and controlled funding costs. Fourth-quarter 2025 GAAP net income declined to $5.8 million from $6.2 million a year earlier and $6.9 million in the prior quarter, largely due to a $1.6 million write-down on a legacy other real estate owned property and higher operating expenses, though non-GAAP quarterly earnings improved to $7.2 million, or $1.10 per diluted share. The bank’s net interest margin on a fully tax-equivalent basis reached 3.75% in the fourth quarter, provision expense rose modestly on loan growth and increased commitments, and the board declared a cash dividend of $0.26 per share. Management framed 2025 as a milestone year marking the bank’s 125th anniversary and underscored continued confidence in its strategy and leadership transition, emphasizing an ongoing focus on expense discipline, balance sheet optimization and expanded client relationships.

The most recent analyst rating on (FUNC) stock is a Hold with a $40.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on First United stock, see the FUNC Stock Forecast page.

Stock Buyback
First United Board Approves Significant Common Stock Buyback
Positive
Jan 27, 2026

On January 26, 2026, First United Corporation’s board authorized a stock repurchase program allowing the company to buy back up to 1,000,000 shares of its common stock, representing about 15.4% of shares outstanding at that time, over an 18‑month period. The shares may be acquired through open-market or privately negotiated transactions at management’s discretion, subject to securities law and internal blackout policies, and actual repurchase activity will depend on share price, trading volumes, available opportunities, and the company’s capital needs, meaning the program may enhance shareholder value but may also result in no purchases if conditions are not favorable.

The most recent analyst rating on (FUNC) stock is a Buy with a $44.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on First United stock, see the FUNC Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board Changes
First United appoints Jason Rush as new CEO
Positive
Jan 16, 2026

Effective January 1, 2026, longtime executive Carissa L. Rodeheaver moved from her role as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of First United Corporation and First United Bank & Trust to become Executive Chairman, retaining board leadership responsibilities while overseeing regulatory examinations, year-end reporting, annual meeting planning and investor relations, and advising the new CEO on management succession. On the same date, industry veteran Jason B. Rush, a First United employee since 1993 who most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of both the Corporation and the Bank with an annual base salary of $450,000, marking a planned internal leadership transition with no related-party transactions requiring disclosure since the start of the 2024 fiscal year.

The most recent analyst rating on (FUNC) stock is a Buy with a $42.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on First United stock, see the FUNC Stock Forecast page.

Dividends
First United Declares Cash Dividend for Shareholders
Positive
Dec 8, 2025

On December 4, 2025, First United Corporation announced a cash dividend of $.26 per share, payable on February 2, 2026, for shareholders on record as of January 16, 2026. This dividend declaration reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to providing shareholder value and may influence investor perceptions and market positioning.

The most recent analyst rating on (FUNC) stock is a Buy with a $43.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on First United stock, see the FUNC Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyExecutive/Board Changes
First United Amends Bylaws for Leadership Transition
Positive
Nov 14, 2025

On November 12, 2025, First United Corporation’s Board amended its bylaws to allow someone other than the Chairman to be the CEO, paving the way for a management transition. Carissa L. Rodeheaver, the current Chairman, President, and CEO, announced her retirement effective at the conclusion of the 2026 annual meeting. Jason B. Rush, who has been with the company since 1993, will succeed her as President and CEO starting January 1, 2026. Rodeheaver will serve as Executive Chairman until her retirement and will remain in an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition. Under Rodeheaver’s leadership, the company has seen significant growth and innovation, enhancing shareholder value and maintaining a strong industry position.

The most recent analyst rating on (FUNC) stock is a Hold with a $39.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on First United stock, see the FUNC Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Feb 04, 2026