Texas

Wells Fargo Expects Hotels Exposed to Group and Leisure to Thrive in 2024

Wells Fargo predicts a stabilization in interest rates in 2024, benefiting hotel sector growth, with a focus on high-end leisure and Asia Pacific markets. Oppenheimer raised the target price for Host Hotels, and Driftwood Capital secured a significant refinancing loan for Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront Hotel. There were key personnel changes in various hotel groups, such as Concord Hospitality and Great Wolf Resorts, indicating a focus on business development and wellness.

Dolly Parton Could Open a Nashville Hotel 

Truist reports that lodging companies aren't experiencing recession-driven demand declines, with strong group and individual business but weak domestic leisure. Dolly Parton may be venturing into Nashville's hotel market with a $75 million building acquisition, and Toftrees Golf Resort in Pennsylvania announces a $50 million renovation. A new $175 million development in Mishawaka, Indiana, includes apartments, townhomes, and a 125-room hotel.

Latest Data on U.S. Hotel Performance

U.S. Hotel Industry Performance (Oct 2023): Shows mixed results with slight declines in occupancy (-1.8%) and EBIDTA PAR (-1.2%), but increases in ADR (+3.0%), RevPAR (+1.2%), TRevPAR (+4.0%), GOPPAR (+3.7%), and LPAR (+5.9%). Hyatt plans over 35 new luxury hotels by 2025 across its brand portfolio. Other notable openings include Auberge Resorts' Bowie House in Texas, Six Senses Xala in Mexico, Riu Palace Pacifico's refurbishment in Mexico, and new Universal Orlando resorts.

Wells Fargo's Hotel Picks and Growth Predictions

Wells Fargo initiated coverage on Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott, favoring operators targeting group and high-end travel, with strong growth outlooks and reasonable valuations. They predict a 3%-4% RevPAR growth in 2024. Accor added Hotel Andra Seattle to its portfolio and plans for new MGallery properties. International tourism is nearing pre-pandemic levels, with a 38% increase in travelers in 2023 compared to 2022. The Middle East leads the recovery, while Europe, Africa, and the Americas show significant improvement.