Sun Oct 06 00:32:00 UTC 2024: ## Ontario Pension Fund Invests in Zions Bancorporation

**Salt Lake City, UT – October 5, 2024** – The Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund has acquired a new position in Zions Bancorporation, National Association (NASDAQ:ZION), a leading regional bank, during the second quarter of 2024. The fund purchased 220,000 shares, valued at approximately $9,541,000, representing a significant investment in the company.

This move by the Ontario Pension Fund is just one example of growing institutional interest in Zions Bancorporation. Other notable investors, including Fidelis Capital Partners, Jones Financial Companies, ORG Partners, International Assets Investment Management, and Rothschild Investment, have also recently acquired new stakes in the company. In total, institutional investors hold a substantial 76.84% of Zions Bancorporation’s stock.

Analysts are also taking notice of the company’s performance. While Argus downgraded Zions Bancorporation to a “hold” rating in July, other firms like Wedbush, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and Stephens have upgraded their ratings and price targets for the stock. This positive sentiment is reflected in the consensus rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $49.17, according to MarketBeat.

Zions Bancorporation recently exceeded analysts’ expectations for the second quarter, reporting earnings per share of $1.28 compared to the estimated $1.10. The company also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.41 per share, indicating a commitment to shareholder returns.

However, insider trading activity suggests some level of caution. VP Bruce K. Alexander and President Scott J. Mclean both sold significant amounts of company stock in recent months. While the sales represent a small percentage of their overall holdings, they raise questions about their confidence in the future performance of the company.

Overall, Zions Bancorporation appears to be a company of interest for both institutional investors and analysts. While some recent insider trading activity warrants scrutiny, the company’s strong financial performance and positive outlook suggest it could continue to attract investors in the future.

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