Whitestone REIT Earns “Buy” Rating from Analysts, Sets $50M Buyback

Whitestone REIT (NYSE:WSR) has received an average rating of “Buy” from five investment research firms that cover the company, according to data from Marketbeat. This consensus reflects a positive outlook from analysts, with all five firms recommending a buy for the stock. The average target price set by these analysts is $16.00 over the next twelve months.

Several firms have recently issued commentary on Whitestone REIT. On January 6, Citigroup reaffirmed a “market outperform” rating for the stock. Additionally, Truist Financial raised its price target from $14.00 to $15.00 while maintaining a buy rating on November 18. On a similar note, LADENBURG THALM/SH SH initiated coverage with a buy rating and a target price of $17.00. Lastly, Weiss Ratings confirmed a “buy (B-)” rating on December 29.

Financial Performance and Share Buyback Program

In its most recent quarterly earnings report released on October 29, Whitestone REIT announced earnings per share of $0.26, aligning with analyst expectations. The company reported a net margin of 28.16% and a return on equity of 10.10%. Revenue for the quarter reached $41.05 million, surpassing the anticipated $39.21 million.

As part of its strategic initiatives, the Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program on December 19, allowing the company to buy back up to $50 million of its outstanding shares. This program permits the real estate investment trust to acquire approximately 7.2% of its stock through open market purchases, a move typically viewed as an indication of management’s belief in the stock’s undervaluation.

Dividend Announcement and Guidance

Whitestone REIT also announced a quarterly dividend set to be paid on March 30, 2025. Shareholders on record as of March 16 will receive $0.1425 per share, translating to an annualized dividend of $0.57 and a yield of 4.1%. The ex-dividend date is also March 16, and the current dividend payout ratio stands at 63.53%.

Looking ahead, Whitestone REIT has provided guidance for the fiscal year 2025, projecting earnings per share between $1.030 and $1.070. Analysts forecast an earnings per share of $0.99 for the current year, indicating a stable outlook for the company.

About Whitestone REIT

Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, Whitestone REIT specializes in the acquisition, development, and management of retail and mixed-use properties. The company primarily focuses on high-growth Texas markets, including the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. Its portfolio primarily consists of open-air neighborhood and community shopping centers, emphasizing convenience and necessity-based retail.

In addition to property ownership, Whitestone REIT offers asset and property management services, leasing expertise, and development capabilities. This multifaceted approach supports its goal of creating stable occupancy and consistent foot traffic through partnerships with essential tenants.

As the market evolves, Whitestone REIT continues to position itself as a key player in the retail real estate sector, backed by strong analyst support and proactive management strategies.