First Busey gets 'overweight' rating as Piper Sandler resumes coverage

Piper Sandler resumes coverage of regional lender First Busey BUSE.O at "overweight" rating

Brokerage says BUSE is poised for multiple expansion as cost synergies and more consistent loan growth emerges with its CrossFirst deal

Says the deal should contribute to BUSE's profitability profile largely matching peers starting early next year

BUSE shares trade at a discount to peers creating an attractive entry point, brokerage says

Piper Sandler's $30 PT on BUSE represents 31.1% upside to stock's last close

4 of 7 brokerages rate the stock "buy" or higher and 3 "hold"; median PT $26 - data compiled by LSEG

As of last close, BUSE stock down 2.9% YTD