Stock Pulse
Host Hotels & Resorts (HST) reported strong Q4 and full-year 2024 earnings, with revenue growth driven by rate increases and out-of-room spending [1]. However, EBITDA margin decreased due to rising wages and fixed expense pressures, and 2025 guidance projects further margin compression [1]. Despite this, HST maintains a strong balance sheet, returned capital to shareholders through dividends and buybacks [1], and expects continued growth in group and business transient segments [1]. The company is actively addressing labor challenges and denied rumors of asset sales [1]. HST is offering more shares for sale, which could dilute existing share value [7], and Norges Bank increased its passive ownership stake in the company [6]. While Q1 2025 RevPAR growth is projected in the mid-single-digits [5], macroeconomic uncertainty and high interest rates pose challenges [5]. Upcoming Q1 2025 earnings will be key to assess the company's performance and outlook [3].