Melco Resorts initiated with a Buy at Seaport Research

Seaport Research initiated coverage of Melco Resorts with a Buy rating and $10 price target. The firm initiated coverage on the global casinos and gaming industry with its initial work focused on the three global U.S. casino operators and the six operators in Macau. The group has generally underperformed the broader market even while fundamentals in Macau continue ramp up strongly following three years of COVID shutdowns and 2024 is set to deliver positive growth in revenue and profitability, the analyst tells investors in a research note. The firm says there are headwinds for the U.S. casino industry due to uncertainty around the economic slowdown. It expects Macau to deliver strong results in 2024 and into 2025, while the U.S. industry will potentially see some headwinds that could limit growth relative to last year. However, the longer term secular prospects for both Asia and the U.S. look strong, says Seaport. Its top pick on valuation is Melco Resorts & Entertainment (MLCO). Its top pick overall based on risk/reward and fundamental outlook is Las Vegas Sands (LVS).