Booking Holdings Upgraded to Buy as BofA Dismisses Google AI Threat
BofA Securities has upgraded Booking Holdings (BKNG) from Hold to Buy, setting a $6,000 price target amid overstated concerns over Google's AI encroachment in travel. Analyst Justin Post highlights Booking's supplier relationships, proprietary data, and defensible AI capabilities as key advantages.
The firm raised its annual cost-saving target to $550 million, with efficiency gains expected to lift 2026 margins. Strong travel demand persists, with October revenue per available room showing robust growth.
Potential stock buybacks following recent weakness could provide additional earnings upside of 16% by 2026, making the current valuation an attractive entry point.