Investors often find themselves in a dilemma when it comes to choosing stocks within the Finance group. While there are numerous great stocks available, the key lies in identifying those that are outperforming their peers. In this article, we take a closer look at Axis Capital (AXS) and its performance this year compared to the rest of the Finance sector.

Discovering the Zacks Sector Rank and Its Significance

Axis Capital is one of 871 individual stocks in the Finance sector, which holds the #1 position in the Zacks Sector Rank. This ranking considers 16 different sector groups, and the average Zacks Rank of individual stocks within these groups is measured. A higher Zacks Rank indicates a better performance outlook. Axis Capital currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy), suggesting a positive trend.Over the past 90 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for AXS’ full-year earnings has seen a 1.2% increase. This indicates improving analyst sentiment and a favorable earnings outlook.In terms of year-to-date returns, AXS has delivered an impressive 67.7%. In contrast, the average return for Finance companies during the same period is 26.2%. Clearly, Axis Capital is outperforming the sector as a whole.Another stock in the Finance sector, Mr Cooper (COOP), has also shown strong performance. Its year-to-date return is 49.3%, and the consensus EPS estimate for the current year has increased by 3.1% over the past three months. Mr Cooper also has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).Looking more specifically, Axis Capital belongs to the Insurance – Property and Casualty industry, which consists of 40 individual stocks and currently ranks #32 in the Zacks Industry Rank. On average, this group has gained 31.4% so far this year, highlighting AXS's better performance in terms of year-to-date returns.Mr Cooper, on the other hand, belongs to the Financial – Consumer Loans industry, which has 16 stocks and is ranked #174. This industry has moved +39.1% so far this year.Investors interested in the Finance sector should closely monitor Axis Capital and Mr Cooper as they strive to maintain their solid performance.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report.Axis Capital Holdings Limited (AXS) : Free Stock Analysis Report