((Automated translation by Reuters, please see disclaimer https://bit.ly/rtrsauto))
April 17 – ** Shares of regional bank Commerce Bancshares CBSH.O rise 2.8%, last up 1.7% at $52.92
** Raymond James upgrades CBSH from “market perform” to “outperform” after impressive first quarter results; sets PT of $61, up 17.3% from last close
** Brokerage firm believes CBSH’s superior underwriting standards will attract increased interest from investors
** CBSH is well positioned for a longer, higher interest rate environment as Fed interest rate cuts continue to be pushed back – Raymond James
**The brokerage firm believes that CBSH stock deserves a higher valuation premium relative to its peers, given its superior profitability, balance sheet safety and attractive growth prospects
**One of eight brokerages covering the stock rates it as “buy” and seven as “hold”; their median forecast is $55.50 – LSEG data
** CBSH shares are down 1.5% year to date
