UPDATE: Stifel Nicolaus Upgrades Wintrust Financial to Buy on Fundamentals & Relative Value

Stifel Nicolaus says in a recent note that it upgrades its rating on Wintrust Financial

from Hold to Buy with a price target of $38. Stifel Nicolaus notes, "Following very solid fourth quarter earnings (see our First Look note dated April 18, 2012), we are raising our 2012 EPS estimate to $2.19 and our 2013 estimate to $2.54. Our estimates assume the closing of the Macquarie acquisition during the second quarter, very solid organic loan growth, improved expense management, and the close out of the 2% secured borrowings in 3Q." WTFC closed at $34.18 on Thursday.