BMO Upgrades Chipotle (CMG) to Outperform
BMO Capital Markets raised its rating on Chipotle from Market Perform to Outperform, citing strong fundamentals and room for upside.
- Reason for Upgrade:
BMO sees continued momentum in same-store sales, strong pricing power, and early success in international expansion. The firm expects operating margins to improve further, supported by digital ordering efficiencies and cost control. - Stock Reaction:
CMG traded higher on the upgrade, hovering near all-time highs above $3,200. - Analyst View:
BMO called Chipotle “best-in-class” among fast-casual peers, praising its execution on store growth and loyalty program adoption. - What’s Driving the Bullish Call:
- Strong U.S. sales comps
- Digital order growth
- International market entry gaining traction
- Improving margins as food cost inflation eases