Medical Properties Trust initiated with a Sell at Deutsche Bank

Deutsche Bank initiated coverage of Medical Properties Trust with a Sell rating and $2 price target. The analyst initiated coverage of healthcare real estate investment trusts with five Buy-rated names, four Hold-rated names and one Sell. The firm’s top picks are Welltower (WELL) and Sabra Health Care (SBRA). Deutsche has a bullish outlook on healthcare REITs. Senior housing will benefit from aging demographics, limited supply and moderating operating expenses while skilled nursing continues to recover post COVID with government reimbursement tailwinds in 2024, the analyst tells investors in a research note. The firm is neutral on medical offices and says life sciences remains challenged. It believes Medical Properties Trust’s tenant related issues will continue to create downward pressure on earnings. Further dividend cuts or a suspension seem likely to shore up “much needed liquidity,” contends Deutsche.