Is BXMT's Q1 2025 EPS forecast optimistic?

**BXMT's Q1 2025 EPS forecast appears optimistic for several reasons**: 1. **Earnings Projection**: The estimated EPS for BXMT in Q1 2025 is $0.36, which, although slightly below the previous quarter's EPS of $0.39, is still positive and indicates a continued ability to generate income. 2. **Analyst Sentiments**: The average analyst price target for BXMT is $19.25, which suggests a potential upside from the current trading price of $18.35. This indicates that analysts are generally optimistic about the stock's future performance. 3. **Dividend Yield**: BXMT has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.47 per share, resulting in an annualized dividend of $1.88 and a yield of 9.12%. This attractive dividend payout can be a sign of confidence in the company's earnings and cash flow. 4. **Market Performance and Repayments**: Blackstone Mortgage Trust has seen strong quarter-to-date progress on repayments and non-performing loan resolutions. These resolutions represent over 60% of total non-performing loans and are at or above carrying values, which is a positive indicator for the company's financial health and future earnings potential. 5. **Options Trading Activity**: The recent increase in options trading volume, with traders acquiring 2,989 call options, a 66% increase from typical volume, could be indicative of market optimism about BXMT's future performance. 6. **Institutional Activity**: There have been institutional purchases of BXMT stock, with Vanguard Group Inc. and Blackstone Inc. increasing their holdings in the company. This could reflect confidence in the company's prospects. In conclusion, the Q1 2025 EPS forecast for BXMT appears optimistic based on the company's financial performance indicators, analyst sentiments, dividend yield, market performance, and recent institutional and options trading activities.