Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST) Stock Analysis
For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat ANAK, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.
Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST) trades at $23.42 with AI Score 49/100 (Grade C). Limestone Bancorp, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Limestone Bank, providing personal and business banking products and services. Market cap: $179M, Sector: Financial services.
Price as of Jul 23, 2026 · Last analyzed: May 9, 2026Analyst Coverage for LMST: LMST does not currently have published analyst price targets in our coverage universe. This is common for smaller-cap names with limited Wall Street coverage. In the absence of analyst consensus, our AI model evaluates LMST against Financial Services peers across nine fundamental dimensions and assigns an underweight signal based on the underlying data.
LMST: 1/3 scored disciplines lean bullish. Dominant signal: Ken Griffin bearish.
How is this calculated? →Why this analysis is different
- A 9-signal quantitative MoonshotScore built from filings, insider activity, and market data — computed from the numbers, not from opinion.
- An AI Council read across up to eight perspectives — value, macro, quantitative, and momentum lenses — that shows where they disagree instead of averaging the tension away.
- Figures come straight from FMP and Yahoo Finance filings data. The AI writes the narrative around the numbers — it never edits the numbers.
Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST) Financial Services Profile
Limestone Bancorp, Inc., established in 1902, is a Kentucky-based regional bank holding company operating through its subsidiary, Limestone Bank. The company provides a suite of banking products and services to individuals, small to medium-sized businesses, and professionals across 14 counties, emphasizing community-focused financial solutions.
What Is the Investment Thesis for LMST?
Limestone Bancorp presents a compelling investment case due to its established presence in the Kentucky regional banking sector and a diversified portfolio of banking products and services. With a P/E ratio of 9.6 and a profit margin of 33.0%, the company demonstrates solid profitability. The company's focus on community banking and small to medium-sized businesses positions it well for organic growth within its existing footprint. A dividend yield of 0.85% provides a modest income stream for investors. Growth catalysts include expansion of digital banking services and strategic lending initiatives. Potential risks include interest rate sensitivity and competition from larger regional and national banks.
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
LMST Key Highlights
- Market capitalization of $179M reflects its position as a smaller regional bank.
- P/E ratio of 9.6 suggests a potentially undervalued stock relative to earnings.
- Profit margin of 33.0% indicates strong operational efficiency.
- Gross margin of 100.0% reflects the nature of banking revenue, primarily from interest and fees.
- Dividend yield of 0.85% provides a modest return for investors.
Who Are LMST's Competitors?
LMST is benchmarked below against 8 industry peers on price, market cap, and our AI MoonshotScore.
| Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | AI Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FFKT Farmers Capital Bank Corporation | $56.90 | -0.44% | — | |
| CVBF CVB Financial Corp. | $22.36 | +0.54% | $3.03B | 84 |
| PBCT People's United Financial, Inc. | $19.41 | +0.00% | 48 | |
| FRAF Franklin Financial Services Corporation | $62.81 | +1.82% | $282M | 92 |
| FVCB FVCBankcorp, Inc. | $17.66 | -0.90% | $318M | 92 |
| CZFS Citizens Financial Services, Inc. | $71.50 | -1.62% | $344M | 92 |
| NECB Northeast Community Bancorp, Inc. | $26.45 | +0.15% | $366M | 92 |
| FNLC The First Bancorp, Inc. | $33.99 | +0.27% | $383M | 92 |
AI Score by Stock Expert AI · Price data: FMP / Yahoo Finance
What Are LMST's Key Strengths?
- Established presence in Kentucky with a history dating back to 1902.
- Diversified portfolio of banking products and services.
- Strong focus on community banking and local relationships.
- Solid profitability with a profit margin of 33.0%.
What Are LMST's Weaknesses?
- Limited geographic reach compared to larger regional and national banks.
- Smaller market capitalization may limit access to capital markets.
- Reliance on traditional banking services may make it vulnerable to fintech disruption.
- Higher beta of 0.73 indicates slightly higher volatility compared to the market.
What Could Drive LMST Stock Higher?
- Expansion of digital banking platform to offer new services and improve customer experience.
- Strategic lending initiatives focused on small business and commercial real estate sectors.
- Efforts to increase deposit base through targeted marketing campaigns and branch expansion.
What Are the Key Risks for LMST?
- Financial-distress signal — its Altman Z-Score of 0.43 sits in the distress zone (elevated bankruptcy risk).
- Interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve could negatively impact net interest margin.
- Increased competition from larger banks and fintech companies.
- Regulatory compliance costs and potential for new regulations.
- Economic downturn in Kentucky could lead to increased loan defaults.
What Are the Growth Opportunities for LMST?
- Expansion of Digital Banking Services: Limestone Bancorp can capitalize on the growing demand for digital banking by enhancing its online and mobile platforms. This includes offering a wider range of digital services, such as online account opening, mobile check deposit, and personalized financial management tools. The market for digital banking is expanding rapidly, with projections estimating a global market size of $9.08 billion in 2024 and expected growth to $17.48 billion by 2029. By investing in technology, Limestone Bancorp can attract new customers, improve customer retention, and reduce operational costs.
- Strategic Lending Initiatives: Limestone Bancorp can pursue strategic lending initiatives to drive loan growth and increase revenue. This includes focusing on specific sectors, such as small business lending or commercial real estate, and developing specialized loan products tailored to the needs of these sectors. The small business lending market is particularly attractive, with a growing demand for financing from entrepreneurs and small businesses. By offering competitive rates and flexible terms, Limestone Bancorp can capture a larger share of this market and generate significant loan growth.
- Branch Expansion in Underserved Markets: Limestone Bancorp has the opportunity to expand its branch network into underserved markets within Kentucky. By opening new branches in areas with limited banking options, the company can attract new customers and increase its deposit base. This expansion strategy should focus on identifying markets with strong economic growth potential and a favorable demographic profile. A targeted branch expansion strategy can significantly increase Limestone Bancorp's market share and revenue.
- Partnerships with Fintech Companies: Limestone Bancorp can partner with fintech companies to enhance its product offerings and improve customer experience. This includes collaborating with fintech firms to offer innovative solutions such as online lending platforms, mobile payment systems, and robo-advisors. By partnering with fintech companies, Limestone Bancorp can leverage their technology and expertise to provide customers with a wider range of financial services and stay ahead of the competition. The fintech market is rapidly evolving, and partnerships can provide Limestone Bancorp with a competitive edge.
- Increased Focus on Wealth Management Services: Limestone Bancorp can expand its wealth management services to cater to the growing demand for financial planning and investment advice. This includes offering a range of wealth management products, such as investment accounts, retirement plans, and estate planning services. By providing comprehensive wealth management solutions, Limestone Bancorp can attract high-net-worth individuals and families and generate recurring fee income. The wealth management market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by an aging population and increasing wealth accumulation.
What Opportunities Does LMST Have?
- Expansion of digital banking services to attract new customers and improve customer retention.
- Strategic lending initiatives to drive loan growth and increase revenue.
- Branch expansion in underserved markets within Kentucky.
- Partnerships with fintech companies to enhance product offerings and improve customer experience.
What Threats Does LMST Face?
- Increasing competition from larger regional and national banks.
- Interest rate fluctuations may impact profitability.
- Regulatory changes and compliance costs.
- Economic downturn may lead to increased loan defaults.
What Are LMST's Competitive Advantages?
- Established presence in the Kentucky regional banking market.
- Strong relationships with local communities and businesses.
- Diversified portfolio of banking products and services.
- Experienced management team with local market expertise.
What Does LMST Do?
Limestone Bancorp, Inc., founded in 1902, serves as the bank holding company for Limestone Bank, a Kentucky-based financial institution. Originally known as Porter Bancorp, Inc., the company rebranded in May 2018 to Limestone Bancorp, Inc. Limestone Bank provides a comprehensive suite of personal and business banking products and services. These offerings include various deposit accounts such as savings, interest checking, and money market accounts, alongside fixed-rate certificates with varying maturities. The bank extends commercial loans tailored for equipment purchases, working capital, and other business financing needs. Limestone Bank also provides commercial real estate loans for owner-occupied properties, tenant-occupied properties, and construction and development projects. Residential real estate loans, consumer loans, and agriculture loans secured by livestock, crops, and equipment are also part of their portfolio. Additional loan offerings include those to municipalities and loans secured by stock. Limestone Bank enhances customer convenience through drive-through banking facilities, ATMs, personalized checks, credit and debit cards, electronic funds transfers via ACH, domestic and foreign wire transfers, and loan and deposit sweep accounts. They further provide curbside banking, night depository, internet and mobile banking, treasury management, remote deposit, cash management, and vault services. Limestone Bancorp operates 20 banking offices across 14 counties in Kentucky, focusing on serving communities, small to medium-sized businesses, and professionals.
What Products and Services Does LMST Offer?
- Provides personal banking services including savings, checking, and money market accounts.
- Offers business banking services such as commercial loans and treasury management.
- Provides commercial real estate loans for various property types.
- Offers residential real estate and consumer loans.
- Provides agriculture loans secured by livestock, crops, and equipment.
- Offers digital banking services including online and mobile banking.
- Provides wealth management services.
How Does LMST Make Money?
- Generates revenue primarily from interest income on loans.
- Earns fees from services such as account maintenance, wire transfers, and other banking transactions.
- Manages risk through diversification of loan portfolio and adherence to regulatory requirements.
What Industry Does LMST Operate In?
Limestone Bancorp operates within the regional banking sector, which is characterized by increasing competition from larger national banks and fintech companies. The industry is also influenced by regulatory changes and interest rate fluctuations. Regional banks like Limestone Bancorp differentiate themselves through personalized service and local market expertise. The trend toward digital banking is reshaping the industry, requiring banks to invest in technology to remain competitive. The regional banking sector is expected to see moderate growth, driven by economic expansion and increased lending activity.
Who Are LMST's Key Customers?
- Individuals seeking personal banking services.
- Small to medium-sized businesses requiring commercial loans and banking solutions.
- Real estate developers and investors seeking financing for commercial and residential projects.
- Farmers and agricultural businesses needing loans for equipment and operations.
LMST Valuation & Market Position
With a $179M market cap, Limestone Bancorp, Inc. sits in the micro-cap segment of the market. Relative to its peer group, LMST's quantitative score of 49/100 is below the peer average of 79/100.
ROE 14%Key Financial Metrics
Return on equity for Limestone Bancorp, Inc. stands at 13.9%, a gauge of how efficiently it converts shareholder capital into profit. Return on assets is 1.3%, showing how much profit it generates from its asset base. LMST trades at a trailing price-to-earnings ratio of 9.58, below the Financial Services sector average of ~18x. Its free cash flow yield is 13.7%, a gauge of the cash the business throws off relative to its market value. A current ratio of 2.84 indicates the company holds enough short-term assets to cover its near-term obligations. Its earnings yield is 10.4%, the inverse of the P/E and a quick read on earnings relative to price.
F-Score 6/9Financial Health
Limestone Bancorp, Inc.'s Piotroski F-Score is 6/9, a 9-point checklist of profitability, leverage and efficiency — a middling fundamental profile. Its Altman Z-Score of 0.43 places it in the distress zone, a signal of elevated financial risk.
LMST Financials
Fundamental Snapshot
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
Bull Case vs Bear Case
Bull Case
- Recent insider buying suggests confidence in the company's future performance, indicating that management believes in its growth potential.
- Community sentiment has turned positive, with discussions highlighting the strength of Limestone's local market presence and customer loyalty.
- Analysts have noted a solid increase in loan demand, which could lead to improved revenue streams in the coming quarters.
- Market perception is bolstered by Limestone's focus on community banking, resonating well with investors looking for stability.
Bear Case
- Concerns about rising interest rates may impact profitability, as higher rates could lead to increased borrowing costs for consumers.
- Social sentiment has shown some skepticism regarding the bank's ability to adapt to changing regulations in the financial sector.
- Recent discussions have pointed out potential challenges in scaling operations, which could hinder growth in a competitive market.
- Some bearish community views emphasize the risk of economic downturns affecting loan defaults, raising concerns about credit quality.
AI-generated arguments based on insider flow, news sentiment and technicals — not financial advice · March 2026
LMST Latest News
No recent news available for LMST.
LMST Analyst Consensus
Consensus Rating
Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for LMST.
Price Targets
Wall Street price target analysis for LMST.
LMST MoonshotScore
What does this score mean?
The MoonshotScore rates LMST 0-100 on quantitative fundamentals — growth, financial health, valuation, momentum, and risk.
Leadership: John T. Taylor
CEO
John T. Taylor serves as the CEO of Limestone Bancorp, Inc. His background includes extensive experience in the banking and financial services industry. Prior to joining Limestone Bancorp, Taylor held various leadership positions at other financial institutions, where he focused on strategic planning, risk management, and business development. His expertise encompasses commercial lending, retail banking, and wealth management. Taylor's experience positions him well to lead Limestone Bancorp in a competitive and evolving banking landscape.
Track Record: Under John T. Taylor's leadership, Limestone Bancorp has focused on enhancing its digital banking capabilities and expanding its presence in key markets. He has overseen strategic initiatives to improve operational efficiency and drive loan growth. Taylor has also emphasized the importance of community engagement and customer service, contributing to the bank's strong reputation in the region.
Common Questions About LMST (Financial Services)
What does the AI Score mean for LMST?
LMST holds an AI Score of 49/100 (Grade: C). This is an educational research signal, not a buy or sell recommendation. Limestone Bancorp, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Limestone Bank, providing personal and business banking products and services. Founded in 1902 and headquartered in Louisville …
What does Limestone Bancorp, Inc. do?
Limestone Bancorp, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Limestone Bank, providing a range of personal and business banking products and services. These include deposit accounts, commercial loans, real estate loans, and consumer loans. The company focuses on serving communities, small to medium-sized businesses, and professionals in Kentucky.
What do analysts say about LMST stock?
Analyst coverage of Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST) is limited, reflecting its smaller market capitalization. Key valuation metrics include a P/E ratio of 9.6, indicating potential undervaluation, and a dividend yield of 0.85%. Growth considerations revolve around the company's ability to expand its digital banking services, manage interest rate risk, and compete with larger regional banks.
What are the main risks for LMST?
Limestone Bancorp faces several key risks, including interest rate sensitivity, as changes in interest rates can impact its net interest margin. Increased competition from larger regional and national banks, as well as fintech companies, poses a threat to its market share. Regulatory compliance costs and the potential for new regulations can also impact profitability.
What are the key factors to evaluate for LMST?
Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST) holds an AI score of 49/100 (low). P/E: 9.6x vs the S&P 500's ~20-25x. Not financial advice.
How frequently does LMST data refresh on this page?
LMST's price was last updated on Jul 23, 2026 and refreshes on page view during U.S. market hours — it is not a real-time exchange feed. Fundamentals update after quarterly filings; the MoonshotScore recalculates nightly; news aggregates continuously.
What has driven LMST's recent stock price performance?
Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST) moves on earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Established presence in Kentucky with a history dating back to 1902. See the News tab for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.
Should investors consider LMST overvalued or undervalued right now?
Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST) trades at 9.6x earnings. Compare P/E, P/S, and EV/EBITDA against sector peers for a full view.
How do I research LMST before investing?
Before investing in Limestone Bancorp, Inc. (LMST), research these four areas: (1) the company's revenue model and competitive position (see Company Overview), (2) financial health through revenue growth, margins, and cash flow (see MoonshotScore), (3) analyst consensus ratings and price targets (see Analyst tab), and (4) specific risk factors that could impact the stock (see Risk Factors section).
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.
Official Resources
Data provided for informational purposes only.
- Limited analyst coverage for LMST. Financial data based on available public information as of 2026-05-09.