EZCORP shares surge 10.66% after-hours as Q1 net income jumps 43% to $44.3M, EPS rises 38% to $0.55, and acquisitions add 117 stores.

EZCORP surged 10.66% in after-hours trading following the release of strong Q1 2026 results, including a 43% year-over-year increase in net income to $44.3 million, 38% higher diluted EPS to $0.55, and 36% growth in adjusted EBITDA to $70.3 million. The company also announced two significant acquisitions: an 87.7% stake in Simple Management Group (adding 105 stores across 12 countries) and 12 Texas pawn stores, expanding its global footprint to 1,500 stores. Management highlighted robust demand for pawn services, improved operational performance, and disciplined capital allocation, with CEO Lachie Given emphasizing the acquisitions’ immediate earnings accretion and long-term growth potential. The results and strategic moves align with the stock’s upward movement, supported by analysts’ recent “Buy” ratings and a $25.50 average price target (17.9% upside from recent levels).