0142 GMT - Zip's strong March-quarter performance supports upgraded earnings forecasts from its bull at Macquarie. A note from one of the investment bank's analysts highlights the Australian payment provider's ability to balance top-line U.S. growth with tight credit-quality control. U.S. net bad debts are trending lower, with losses from Zip's eight-installment payment product having peaked. Macquarie's cash earnings forecasts rise by 4.6% for fiscal 2026, by 5.3% for fiscal 2027, and by 5.2% for fiscal 2028. The analyst also writes approvingly of Zip's positioning to refinance its US$300 million U.S. facility some time in the June quarter, which will further optimize its portfolio. Macquarie raises its target price 1.5% to A$3.40 and keeps an outperform rating on the stock, which is up 9.4% at A$2.55. (stuart.condie@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
April 19, 2026 21:42 ET (01:42 GMT)
Copyright (c) 2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.