Intercontinental Hotels Group

UBS has upgraded InterContinental Hotels Group shares from “Neutral” to “Buy” and raised the price target from $157.65 to $188, saying the recent underperformance has created an attractive entry point. The bank lifts EPS forecasts for 2026 and 2027 by around 4% and now expects RevPAR growth of 3.5% and net unit growth of 5.0%. UBS notes that IHG is currently trading at about a 3% discount to Hilton and that the EV/EBITDA valuation premium versus its own history has declined. IHG also confirms its ongoing share buyback program; on September 1 it repurchased 86,715 common shares through Goldman Sachs. Despite a weaker overall market, the stock rose about 3% to 160.6, approaching its 52-week high. » More on de.investing.com

IHG reported a global RevPAR increase of 4.1% for H1 2026, net system growth of 5%, and record openings and signings. Fee margin widened by 120 basis points, EBIT rose by 10% and adjusted earnings per share increased by 13%, supported by share buybacks. Management expects continued system growth, further margin improvements and points to a strong development pipeline and investments in AI and technology. The stock reacted muted, falling about 1.8% in premarket trading. » More on de.investing.com

IHG reported operating profits from reportable segments up 10% to $665 million and revenue up 7% to $1.3 billion in H1, with RevPAR increasing 4.1%. Growth in the U.S., Asia Pacific and Europe helped offset a slowdown from the Middle East conflict, which represents about 5% of the business. CEO Elie Maalouf cited a growing middle class and strong demand for experiences, and said the World Cup and live events boosted U.S. hotel demand. » More on cnbc.com

IHG Hotels & Resorts reported for the first half of 2026 a 7% revenue increase in reportable segments to US$1.255 billion, EBIT up 10% and adjusted earnings per share of US$2.747 (+13%). The fee margin widened by 120 basis points to 65.9% and net system growth reached 5%, the highest level in seven years. The company confirmed its investment plans and clarified interest expense; the stock nevertheless fell by about 2% in after‑hours trading. » More on de.investing.com

Goldman Sachs raised its 12-month price target for IHG from $188 to $190 and kept its rating at buy. The bank revised its RevPAR forecasts due to stronger trends in the US and reduced impacts from the Middle East; it lifted the Q2 RevPAR estimate from 1.8% to 3% and the full-year 2026 forecast from 2.7% to 3.2%. Goldman Sachs now expects 2026 operating profit of $1.39 billion and sees EPS growth of 13% for 2026, but it maintained several risk factors such as weaker RevPAR, slower growth in hotel units and geopolitical shocks. » More on de.investing.com