EZCORP, Inc. Class A (EZPW)

EZCORP's stock has increased nearly 50% over the past six months. Strong Q1 Fiscal 2026 earnings, with record revenue and improved EPS, positively impacted the stock. Strategic acquisitions of Founders One, LLC and El Buffalo Pawn expanded EZCORP's footprint. An 11% increase in pawn loans outstanding was reported in Q4 Fiscal 2025. Analyst upgrades followed the strong Q1 2026 results. Several EZCORP executives made significant stock purchases in November 2025.

Demand for EZCORP's products and services exhibits seasonality, with pawn loans outstanding typically highest in the summer and lowest in the spring. The tax refund season typically drives increased loan redemption and retail activity. Consumer credit conditions lead to sustained consumer demand for pawn loans. There is a growing consumer trend towards seeking affordable, high-quality pre-owned goods, which benefits EZCORP's retail side of the business. The current gold price environment also supports elevated scrap contributions.

EZCORP, Inc. is a specialty consumer finance company providing pawn loans and retail merchandise programs, operating primarily in the non-prime consumer lending industry. Its major products and services include collateral-based pawn loans, check-cashing, money-transfer, and bill-payment services. The company also resells previously pawned merchandise through its "Sell-It-Now" platform and retail storefronts, operating under various brands like EZPAWN and Value Pawn & Jewelry.

EZCORP operates approximately 1,500 pawn stores across 16 countries, with a strong presence in the U.S. (Texas and Florida) and Latin America (Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras). Recent expansions include Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, and Panama.

EZCORP's brand reputation in the past year appears to be largely positive, particularly in terms of financial performance and strategic growth. The company has been highlighted for its exceptional operating performance and strong financial performance. Strategic acquisitions have expanded its market presence and are expected to enhance earnings. The initiation of a new share repurchase program also signals management's confidence in the company.

EZCORP, Inc. has significant institutional ownership, with 403 institutional owners and shareholders holding 99.83% of the company's shares. Major institutional owners include BlackRock, Inc., and Vanguard Group Inc. Phillip E. Cohen, the Executive Chairman, holds 100% of the Class B Voting Common Stock through his ownership of the MS Pawn Corporation.