UFCS

Growth Stocks Overview: Growth stocks are appealing due to their potential for above-average returns, but they also come with higher risks and volatility. Identifying strong growth stocks can be challenging, though tools like the Zacks Growth Style Score can help investors find promising options.

United Fire Group's Performance: United Fire Group (UFCS) is highlighted as a strong growth stock, boasting a historical EPS growth rate of 19.5% and a projected growth of 18.4% for the current year, significantly outperforming the industry average.

Efficiency and Sales Growth: The company has an asset utilization ratio of 0.37, indicating better efficiency in generating sales compared to the industry average of 0.34. Additionally, its sales are expected to grow by 9.4% this year, again surpassing the industry average of 4.8%.

Earnings Estimate Revisions: United Fire's earnings estimates have been revised upward by 21.2% over the past month, contributing to its Zacks Rank #1 status and a Growth Score of B, suggesting it is a solid choice for growth investors.

Upcoming Ex-Dividend Dates: On 8/29/25, Brookfield Asset Management Ltd (BAM), United Fire Group, Inc. (UFCS), and Evercore Inc Class A (EVR) will trade ex-dividend, with respective dividends of $0.4375, $0.16, and $0.84 scheduled for payment on 9/29/25 and 9/12/25.

Expected Price Adjustments: Following the ex-dividend date, BAM shares are expected to open 0.73% lower, UFCS by 0.51%, and EVR by 0.26%, based on their recent stock prices.

Dividend Aristocrats Contender: Evercore Inc Class A is nearing eligibility for the "Dividend Aristocrats" index, having achieved over 18 years of dividend increases.

Current Stock Performance: As of Wednesday trading, BAM shares are up 0.2%, UFCS down 0.4%, and EVR shares have increased by 2%.

Credit Ratings Affirmed: AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of "a-" (Excellent) for United Fire Group, Inc. and its property/casualty subsidiaries, with stable outlooks.

Financial Strength Assessment: The ratings reflect United Fire & Casualty Group's very strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, neutral business profile, and effective enterprise risk management.

Market Position and Challenges: Despite facing competitive market conditions and exposure to natural catastrophes, the group's established position in core markets and recent earned rate increases have positively impacted their results.

Company Overview: The ratings pertain to multiple subsidiaries of United Fire & Casualty Company, which are headquartered in Cedar Rapids, IA, and benefit from solid regional franchises and long-standing agency relationships.