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Tuesday, BofA Securities analysts upgraded Public Storage (NYSE:PSA) stock rating from Neutral to Buy and increased the price target to $368 from $349. This decision reflects a more optimistic outlook on the self-storage sector and the company’s robust financial position. According to InvestingPro data, Public Storage boasts a "GREAT" financial health score and has maintained dividend payments for an impressive 45 consecutive years, currently offering a 4.17% yield.
The analysts highlighted several reasons for the upgrade. They pointed out Public Storage’s strong and flexible balance sheet, noting that the company has the lowest leverage compared to its peers, including Extra Space Storage (NYSE:EXR). This, they believe, provides Public Storage with a defensive edge against potential economic slowdowns or tightening capital markets. InvestingPro analysis confirms this assessment, showing the company operates with moderate debt levels and maintains a healthy current ratio.
Additionally, the analysts suggested that Public Storage’s forecast of a 100 basis point impact from Los Angeles to same-store revenue growth is conservative, especially when compared to Extra Space Storage’s estimate of a 20 basis point impact. They also observed market improvements, with data indicating a 1.7% year-over-year increase in the first quarter of 2025, an uptick from the 0.1% growth in the same period of 2024.
The valuation of Public Storage also played a role in the upgrade. The stock is currently trading at a forward four-quarter Adjusted Funds From Operations (AFFO) multiple of 18.8 times, which is favorable when compared to the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) average of 19.5 times, the long-term average (LTA) of 21.3 times, and the REIT average of 20.2 times. Current market metrics from InvestingPro show the company trading at a P/E ratio of 26.71x and commanding a market capitalization of $50.59 billion, with revenue growth of 3.74% over the last twelve months.
The upgrade by BofA Securities comes as a significant endorsement of Public Storage’s position within the self-storage industry and its financial strategy. The new price target of $368 represents a vote of confidence in the company’s future performance and its ability to outperform within the sector. For deeper insights into Public Storage’s financial health and growth prospects, investors can access the comprehensive Pro Research Report available exclusively on InvestingPro, which covers over 1,400 top US stocks with expert analysis and actionable intelligence.
In other recent news, Public Storage reported a strong fourth quarter for 2024, surpassing earnings expectations with an EPS of $3.21 compared to the forecast of $2.56. Revenue met expectations at $1.18 billion. The company anticipates increased acquisition activity in 2025, which could enhance its operational efficiency and cash flow. Public Storage also proposed the acquisition of Abacus Storage King, indicating its strategy to expand beyond the U.S. market. UBS analysts maintained a Neutral rating and a $305 price target, noting potential growth opportunities and challenges related to the deal. Mizuho (NYSE:MFG) initiated coverage on Public Storage with a Neutral rating and a price target of $287, citing concerns about the company’s growth prospects due to its size and market exposure. Despite these concerns, Mizuho anticipates a potential growth recovery in the latter half of 2025 and into 2026. These developments highlight Public Storage’s strategic initiatives and financial performance as it navigates market dynamics.
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