New York, Jan 8, 2026, 12:49 EST — Regular session
Caesars Entertainment shares climbed nearly 9% in midday trade on Thursday after Susquehanna upgraded the casino operator to “Positive” and raised its price target to $31 from $25. The stock was up about 9% at $25.06. Benzinga
The upgrade lands at a touchy moment for casino stocks, where any hint of softer U.S. demand has been met with fast selling. Caesars has little margin for error given its debt load, so broker calls that lean on improving trends can move the stock quickly.
Susquehanna said the risk-reward looked “attractive,” arguing earnings revisions could turn higher as promotions normalise in regional markets and Las Vegas improves with a larger group and convention mix. The note also pointed to tax-refund season and easing price pressures as potential tailwinds later in the quarter.
Wednesday was a reminder of how fragile the tape has been. Caesars fell 3.24% to close at $23.00, and it remains about 42.5% below its 52-week high of $40.00 hit in February, according to MarketWatch data; MGM Resorts and Las Vegas Sands also slid in the same session.
But the setup cuts both ways. If the consumer softens or discounting returns, especially in regional markets, Caesars’ earnings can slip fast and the balance sheet can start to look tight again.
The next hard catalyst is earnings. Caesars said it will release fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results after the market closes on Feb. 17 and hold a conference call at 5 p.m. ET.
Investors will be listening for commentary on Las Vegas room rates and group bookings, promotional intensity in regional casinos and any update on cash flow and debt.
