Citigroup: Includes HWORLD-S (01179) in 30-day up catalyst observation, rating remains "Buy"

Citibank released a research report stating that HWORLD-S (01179) will be included in the 30-day upward catalyst watch list. They believe that the strong demand for leisure travel and the spring break in certain mainland provinces will drive an increase in domestic tourism demand on the island, as well as the rise in geopolitical conflicts and outbound transportation costs. This will support the continuous improvement in Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) trend until the May Day holiday. The bank rates Huazhu Group as "buy" with a target price of HK$47, based on a forecast of approximately 14 times Enterprise Value/ Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EV/EBITDA) multiple for the year 2026.