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BMO Capital Markets has maintained a Market Perform rating and a $31.00 price target for CareTrust REIT (NYSE:CTRE) shares following the company’s announcement of a significant expansion into the United Kingdom (TADAWUL:4280). CareTrust REIT disclosed a $817 million acquisition of Care REIT, marking the company’s foray into the UK market. This move will add 137 care homes to its portfolio and is expected to constitute 16% of pro forma rents.
The acquisition was made at an 8.1% GAAP capitalization rate, with a 7.2% cash yield, which BMO Capital analysts believe is an aggressive pricing compared to recent similar acquisitions by other companies in the sector. Despite this, the transaction is seen as well-timed and a diversification strategy for CareTrust REIT, especially in light of potential U.S. Medicaid cuts. The company’s strong track record of dividend growth, having raised dividends for 9 consecutive years, supports its expansion strategy. The new addition to the company’s assets is anticipated to drive approximately 3% funds available for distribution per share accretion.
The BMO Capital analyst appreciates the strategic move, considering the potential for diversifying CareTrust REIT’s tenancy, with post-acute care services (PACS) expected to represent about 11% of the pro forma figure. The acquisition’s yield of 8.1% is notably lower than the approximately 10% yield seen in recent care home acquisitions by Omega Healthcare (NYSE:OHI) Investors, indicating a more aggressive investment stance by CareTrust REIT.
CareTrust REIT’s entry into the UK care home market represents a significant step in the company’s growth and diversification. The BMO Capital analyst’s reiteration of the Market Perform rating and the $31.00 price target reflects a view that the stock is currently trading at a 7.5% capitalization rate, which aligns with the anticipated accretion from the UK acquisition.
In other recent news, CareTrust REIT has announced significant developments that could impact its future growth and operations. The company has reported the renewal and expansion of its unsecured revolving credit facility to $1.2 billion, led by KeyBanc Capital Markets. This move is intended to support CareTrust’s growth strategy, including potential future acquisitions. Additionally, S&P Global Ratings has upgraded CareTrust’s corporate rating to BB+ and its issue-level rating on unsecured notes to BBB-.
In another strategic move, CareTrust REIT has launched a $750 million equity distribution program, allowing the sale of common stock shares through an "at-the-market" offering. The proceeds from this program are intended for general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and debt repayment. KeyBanc Capital Markets has also adjusted its outlook on CareTrust, reducing the price target to $33 but maintaining an Overweight rating, reflecting confidence in the company’s growth prospects despite current uncertainties.
CareTrust is currently facing potential challenges due to Medicaid cuts, which may affect its skilled nursing facilities. However, the company has a robust pipeline of investment opportunities, with approximately $325 million worth of deals lined up. Analysts from KeyBanc project about $600 million in incremental investments for CareTrust in 2025, suggesting potential for future earnings growth.
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