The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday edition that Desjardins analyst Gary Ho is maintaining a "buy" ranking for goeasy. The Globe's David Leeder writes that Mr. Ho's share target soared ahead by $20 to $185. Analysts on average target the shares at $193.78. Mr. Ho issued his target upgrade ahead of the company's Feb. 13 earnings release. Mr. Ho says in a note: "We expect loan book growth, revenue yield and NCO to be in line with guidance. On the rate cap, we believe that 35 per cent will be implemented mid-2024, with no further step-down in the near term. goeasy will refresh its three-year outlook while introducing 2026 guidance. We expect a 10-per-cent dividend hike this quarter. We upped our EPS estimates, reflecting lower financing costs and better operating margins. Our investment thesis is predicated on: (1) its ability to manage in the current challenging macro environment through its robust credit underwriting platform, supported by its creditor insurance program; (2) rate cap has a manageable impact on future revenue yield and profitability; (3) solid loan book growth, particularly on secured products; (4) credible management team; and (5) the business has consistently generated a 20-per-cent-plus ROE."