United Parks & Resorts Downgraded to Hold with $40 Target after $0.69 EPS Loss
PRKS•Stifel Nicolaus cut United Parks & Resorts to Hold with a $40 price target after a first-quarter loss of $0.69 per share. Revenue dropped to $278.3 million as 220,000 fewer guests attended due to adverse weather and reduced international visitation.
1. Rating Cut to Hold with $40 Price Target
Stifel Nicolaus downgraded United Parks & Resorts to a Hold rating and set a $40 price target, reflecting roughly 9.5% potential upside from recent trading levels. The action signals tempered expectations for near-term stock performance.
2. Q1 Results Show Wider Loss and Revenue Decline
The company reported a first-quarter loss of $0.69 per share, surpassing a $0.36 per share estimate and deepening from a $0.29 per share loss a year earlier. Revenue fell to $278.3 million from $287.0 million in the prior-year period, marking a decline in top-line results.
3. Attendance Drop and Spending Trends
Adverse weather in key markets reduced attendance by about 140,000 visitors, and fewer international arrivals cut another 80,000 visits, totaling 220,000 lost guests. Management noted that in-park per capita spending increased, partially offsetting weaker foot traffic.
