WING Wingstop Inc. Feb 19, 2026: Benchmark Maintains Buy; RBC Keeps Outperform
On February 19, 2026, Benchmark reiterated its "Buy" rating for Wingstop Inc. (WING), while RBC Capital maintained its "Outperform" rating but lowered its price target to $340 from $350. These actions followed Wingstop's strong fourth-quarter performance. The maintained ratings indicate that analysts remain constructive on the stock, despite a slight adjustment in valuation expectations.
Dallas-based Wingstop shares soar after it beats Wall Street expectations
Wingstop Inc.'s share price climbed significantly after the Dallas-based chicken chain surpassed Wall Street's fourth-quarter expectations, easing investor concerns about a financial slowdown. The company reported a profit of $26.76 million, or 96 cents per share, exceeding analyst projections of 83 cents per share. Despite a decrease in domestic same-store sales, total revenue increased by 8.6%, contributing to the positive investor reaction.
RBC cuts Wingstop stock price target to $340 on softer Q1 trends
RBC Capital has reduced its price target for Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) to $340 from $350, maintaining an Outperform rating, citing softer quarter-to-date trends and increased execution risk. Despite beating Q4 consensus on same-store sales and EBITDA, implied Q1 same-store sales growth is expected to fall below consensus. Other analysts like Truist Securities, Guggenheim, and Bernstein have recently raised their price targets for Wingstop, reflecting a mixed but generally positive outlook.
Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript
Wingstop Inc. held its Q4 2025 earnings call, reporting strong financial performance with adjusted EBITDA growth of 15% and 493 new restaurants opened globally. Despite a 3% same-store sales decline, the company emphasized its "transformational" year with the Wingstop Smart Kitchen rollout and the upcoming national launch of its loyalty program, Club Wingstop, in Q2 2026. Wingstop is focused on improving speed of service to 10 minutes and expanding its global footprint, with an outlook for flat to low single-digit domestic same-store sales growth and 15-16% global unit growth in 2026.
Wingstop Sees Stock Price Increase as Upgrades and New Collaborations Boost Confidence
Wingstop's stock price has risen by 10.84% due to positive market sentiment driven by strategic growth initiatives, including analyst upgrades and new collaborations. While some analysts maintain caution or have issued downgrades based on short-term sales trends, optimism remains for a recovery in the latter part of the year, particularly concerning international expansion opportunities. The company's recent partnership with PopUp Bagels also highlights its innovative approach to market presence.
Wingstop shares soar despite same-store sales decline
Wingstop's shares climbed significantly despite the company reporting a decline in same-store domestic sales for the fourth quarter. The CEO anticipates 2025 to be a "transformational year" for the chain, suggesting investor confidence in future growth despite the recent sales dip.
Wingstop Inc earnings beat by $0.16, revenue fell short of estimates
Wingstop Inc (WING) reported Q4 earnings per share of $1.00, surpassing analyst estimates by $0.16. However, the company's revenue of $175.7 million fell short of the consensus estimate of $177.88 million. Despite the revenue miss, Wingstop's stock closed at $251.78, showing a 2.35% increase over the last three months, though it was down 5.00% over the past year.
Wingstop (WING) Valuation Check As Earnings Approach After Recent Revenue Miss
Wingstop (WING) is approaching its earnings report after a recent 5% revenue miss. While the company's valuation is seen as 21.2% undervalued by many at $319 per share, its P/E ratio of 40.1x significantly exceeds the U.S. Hospitality average of 21.4x, raising questions about whether its future growth is already priced in. Investors are urged to consider key rewards and warning signs before making a decision.
Wingstop Upgraded as Melius Research Targets $350 Amid International Growth Hopes
Melius Research has upgraded Wingstop's stock from Hold to Buy, setting a $350 price target due to strong international growth potential. While some analysts like Raymond James and Citi have more modest targets or concerns, the overall sentiment highlights Wingstop's robust financial health with high gross margins and rising operating cash flow. Strategic collaborations and a focus on global expansion are seen as key drivers for long-term positive performance, despite some near-term market apprehension.
Wingstop shares jump 12.6% as traders position ahead of Q4 results after recent selloff
Wingstop (WING) shares jumped 12.6% due to pre-earnings positioning ahead of its Q4 and full-year 2025 results, which are scheduled for February 18, 2026. This rebound is likely amplified by short covering and options-related flows, following a significant selloff in early February and a high short interest in the stock. The move could also reflect volatility as traders price in a potentially large post-earnings swing.
Wingstop Sees Optimism with Upgrade to $350 Price Target
Wingstop's stock surged 12.9% following an upgrade to a $350 price target, reflecting strong financial performance, strategic expansion, and innovative collaborations. Despite mixed analyst views and broader economic concerns, the company exhibits resilience and has strong liquidity, suggesting continued growth potential.
What To Expect From Wingstop's (WING) Q4 Earnings
Wingstop (WING) is set to report its Q4 earnings, with analysts expecting revenue growth of 9.9% year-on-year to $177.8 million and adjusted earnings of $0.83 per share. The company previously missed revenue expectations in the last quarter. The article notes that while some restaurant peers have performed well, the sector has generally underperformed, and Wingstop's stock is currently trading below its average analyst price target.
Wingstop’s Stellar Restaurant Unit Economics Persist Despite Operating in a Competitive Category
Wingstop is making strategic investments to improve customer experience and maintain its strong unit economics, even in a highly competitive market and consumer pullback. While the company projects significant system sales growth, the article expresses caution regarding its long-term trajectory due to its narrow focus within the chicken category. Despite this, there's an acknowledged opportunity for Wingstop to gain market share in a growing vertical.
Should You Think About Buying Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) Now?
Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) has experienced significant price movements, currently trading around US$224 after reaching US$285. According to Simply Wall St's valuation model, the stock appears fairly priced, approximately 9.2% below its intrinsic value. Despite its volatility, future profit growth is expected to be a relatively muted 9.7% over the next couple of years, suggesting it might not be a primary driver for buying decisions in the short term.
Wall Street Bulls Look Optimistic About Wingstop (WING): Should You Buy?
Wingstop (WING) has an average brokerage recommendation (ABR) of 1.57, suggesting a "Buy" based on ratings from 29 brokerage firms, with 19 strong buys. However, the article advises caution as brokerage recommendations often have a positive bias. It recommends using the Zacks Rank, which for Wingstop is currently a #4 (Sell) due to declining earnings estimates, as a more reliable indicator of near-term price performance.
Wingstop Inc. (WING) is Attracting Investor Attention: Here is What You Should Know
Wingstop Inc. (WING) is drawing investor attention, though its stock has seen a -11.3% return over the past month. Despite revenue growth forecasts and having beaten EPS estimates in the last four quarters, the company currently holds a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell), suggesting potential underperformance in the near term. Its valuation indicates it is trading at a premium compared to its peers.
Wingstop’s UK Expansion Puts Growth Targets And Valuation In Focus
Wingstop's expansion in the UK with new locations in Manchester and Derby underscores the company's reliance on international growth for future development. While the stock has seen declines recently, analysts believe it trades below its consensus target, and Simply Wall St assesses it as trading near its fair value. Investors should monitor how the franchise model performs abroad and its impact on earnings, especially given identified risks like debt coverage.
Earnings Preview: Wingstop (WING) Q4 Earnings Expected to Decline
Wingstop (WING) is projected to experience a year-over-year decline in earnings for Q4 2025, despite an expected increase in revenues. Analysts are forecasting earnings of $0.84 per share, a 4.6% decrease, on revenues of $176.06 million, up 8.8%. The company's Earnings ESP suggests a potential slight beat, but its Zacks Rank #4 makes a definitive prediction difficult.
Wingstop’s UK Expansion Puts Growth Targets And Valuation In Focus
Wingstop is expanding its presence in the UK with new locations and plans to more than double its current 85+ sites within the next five years, highlighting a strategic focus on international growth. While the stock has delivered significant long-term returns for investors, it has experienced a short-term decline, trading about 20% below analyst consensus targets. Investors should monitor how the rapid UK expansion impacts unit economics, brand strength, and financial metrics like same-store sales and international margins, especially given Simply Wall St's flagged risks including debt coverage.
Earnings Preview: Wingstop (WING) Q4 Earnings Expected to Decline
Wingstop (WING) is projected to report a year-over-year decline in Q4 earnings despite higher revenues. The company's upcoming earnings report on February 18, 2026, will reveal whether actual results align with or deviate from the consensus estimates, potentially affecting its stock price. While the Zacks Earnings ESP suggests a slightly bullish outlook, the current Zacks Rank of #4 makes a definitive prediction of an earnings beat difficult.
Wingstop (WING) Stock Trades Down, Here Is Why
Wingstop's (WING) stock fell by 4.9% after at least two analyst firms downgraded the company due to concerns about future sales and financial pressure on its core customer base. TD Cowen lowered its rating to "Hold" and Raymond James to "outperform," citing survey data indicating financial struggles among younger, lower-income customers. This news follows a period of volatility for the stock, though Wingstop had previously reported strong Q2 earnings and raised full-year growth guidance seven months prior.
Wingstop (WING) Valuation Check After Earnings Reset And Guidance Cut
Wingstop (WING) recently reported earnings with increased revenue and Adjusted EBITDA, but also experienced a break in its 21-year same-store sales growth streak and issued lower 2025 guidance. Despite a 16.78% share price return over 90 days, the one-year return is a 5.62% loss, though longer-term holders have seen significant gains. The article discusses Wingstop's valuation, noting that most narratives see it as 11.8% undervalued with a fair value of $319, based on operational efficiencies and expansion, while acknowledging risks like softer consumer demand and rising labor costs.
Ranger Investment Management L.P. Increases Holdings in Wingstop Inc. $WING
Ranger Investment Management L.P. significantly increased its stake in Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) by 33.9% in the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 82,755 shares valued at $20.8 million. Other major institutions like Norges Bank and Wasatch also established new, substantial positions in the company, while several existing institutional investors boosted their holdings. Despite beating EPS estimates, Wingstop missed revenue expectations in Q3, yet analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with a consensus target price of $338.75.
Wingstop’s Rapid, Profitable Expansion Might Change The Case For Investing In Wingstop (WING)
Wingstop Inc. has shown strong financial results with solid revenue and earnings growth, alongside rapid expansion through new restaurant openings. This aggressive unit growth, combined with high profitability, suggests a technical foundation for a new phase in the company's trajectory, despite a high valuation and some balance sheet concerns. The article encourages investors to analyze various perspectives on Wingstop's fair value before making investment decisions.
Q3 Earnings Highlights: Wingstop (NASDAQ:WING) Vs The Rest Of The Modern Fast Food Stocks
The article summarizes the Q3 earnings reports for several modern fast-food stocks, highlighting Wingstop's performance compared to its peers. While Wingstop missed analyst revenue and same-store sales estimates, its stock still saw a significant increase. Shake Shack reported the strongest performance against estimates, while Sweetgreen had the weakest revenue growth.
Wingstop Inc (NASDAQ:WING) Presents a Strong Growth and Technical Setup for Investors
Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) shows strong potential for investors due to its robust fundamental growth, including rapid revenue and EPS expansion, high profitability, and strong financial health. Technically, the stock appears to be consolidating after a price drop, displaying signs of a potential upward move with a high setup score and indications of buying activity. While its valuation is high, the combination of strong fundamentals and a favorable technical setup makes it a stock to watch for growth-oriented investors.
Wingstop Inc. $WING Holdings Raised by WCM Investment Management LLC
WCM Investment Management LLC significantly increased its stake in Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) by 123.9% during the third quarter, now owning 102,687 shares valued at $25.86 million. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating for Wingstop with a target price of $340. The company recently reported strong EPS of $1.09, beating estimates, though revenue of $175.74 million missed expectations.
Wingstop (WING) Valuation Check After Recent Share Price Momentum Shift
Wingstop's recent share price momentum is prompting investors to reassess its valuation, with the stock currently at US$265.43. While a popular narrative suggests it is 16.9% undervalued with a fair value of $319, based on operational efficiencies from its Smart Kitchen platform, its current P/E ratio of 42.3x is significantly higher than the industry average, raising valuation risk. Softer sales guidance and pressure on lower-income guests could challenge the undervaluation case.
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Purchases 194,582 Shares of Wingstop Inc. $WING
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans significantly increased its stake in Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) during the third quarter, purchasing an additional 194,582 shares to bring its total ownership to 250,914 shares valued at over $63 million. Despite a Q3 revenue miss, Wingstop surpassed EPS estimates, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus with an average price target of $340. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions, and insider selling activity was noted.
Morgan Stanley Still Bullish on Wingstop Inc. (WING)’s Growth Story After Target Cut
Morgan Stanley reaffirmed its "Overweight" rating on Wingstop Inc. (WING) despite a recent target price reduction to $345 from $363, maintaining a bullish outlook on the company's long-term growth prospects in the quick-service restaurant sector. Wingstop demonstrated strong performance in Fiscal Third Quarter 2025, opening 369 net new restaurants, achieving a 19% unit growth rate, and seeing system-wide sales grow by 13%, with trailing twelve-month sales exceeding $5 billion. The company, founded in 1994, continues its rapid global expansion.
New York State Common Retirement Fund Increases Stock Holdings in Wingstop Inc. $WING
The New York State Common Retirement Fund increased its stake in Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) by 3.8% in the third quarter of 2025, bringing its total holdings to 109,025 shares valued at approximately $27.44 million. This increase reflects continued institutional interest in the restaurant operator, even as Wingstop beat EPS estimates but missed revenue consensus in its latest quarterly report. The company has a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating among analysts, with a target price of $340.00.
10 High Growth Food Stocks To Buy
This article highlights Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) as one of the top high-growth food stocks. It details Wingstop's robust revenue growth, increasing number of hedge fund holders, and significant unit expansion. The company's strong performance and strategic initiatives position it favorably in the quick-service restaurant sector.
Wingstop’s Stock Cools After A Hot Rally: Is The Bull Run Losing Steam?
Wingstop's stock has experienced a recent pullback after a strong multi-month rally, leading investors to question if its bull run is losing steam or simply undergoing a healthy correction. Despite this, the company's shares are still near record highs, having seen substantial growth over the past year due to robust revenue, earnings, and digital engagement. Wall Street analysts maintain a generally positive outlook, though some caution that the current valuation leaves little margin of safety if growth metrics falter.
Kornitzer Capital Management Inc. KS Has $1.39 Million Stock Holdings in Wingstop Inc. $WING
Kornitzer Capital Management Inc. KS significantly reduced its stake in Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) by 75.8% in Q3, selling 17,330 shares and retaining 5,520 shares valued at approximately $1.39 million. Despite this reduction, analysts generally maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating for Wingstop with a target price of $340, though individual price targets have seen mixed revisions. The company recently exceeded EPS estimates but missed revenue expectations, and it pays a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share.
Mutual of America Capital Management LLC Buys 7,145 Shares of Wingstop Inc. $WING
Mutual of America Capital Management LLC has increased its stake in Wingstop Inc. by 47.0%, purchasing an additional 7,145 shares to bring its total to 22,345 shares, valued at approximately $5.62 million. Wall Street analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating with a $340 price target for Wingstop, despite the company missing revenue estimates but beating EPS in its last quarterly report. Wingstop's stock is currently trading around $273, has a market cap of $7.58 billion, and pays an annual dividend of $1.20.
Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) Receives Average Rating of "Moderate Buy" from Analysts
Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) has received a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from 33 analysts, with an average one-year price target of $340. This rating reflects a mix of 24 "buy," 4 "strong buy," 4 "hold," and 1 "sell" recommendation. Despite mixed analyst target adjustments, the company recently beat EPS expectations but missed revenue estimates, with a market capitalization of approximately $7.6 billion and a modest dividend yield.
Federated Hermes Inc. Sells 28,964 Shares of Wingstop Inc. $WING
Federated Hermes Inc. significantly reduced its stake in Wingstop Inc. by 6.2% in the third quarter, selling 28,964 shares and now owning 440,798 shares valued at $110.94 million. Other hedge funds also adjusted their positions in the restaurant operator. Wingstop recently reported strong earnings, exceeding analyst expectations, and declared a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share.
Wall Street Analysts Think Wingstop (WING) Is a Good Investment: Is It?
This article examines why Wingstop (WING) has a "Strong Buy" average brokerage recommendation (ABR) from Wall Street analysts, but cautions investors against relying solely on these ratings due to inherent biases. It introduces the Zacks Rank as an alternative, more reliable tool for predicting stock price movements, which currently gives Wingstop a "Sell" rating due to declining earnings estimates. The article advises investors to use analyst recommendations to validate their own research or tools like the Zacks Rank.
Jim Cramer calls Wingstop (WING) "Too tough a call"
The article indicates that Jim Cramer, a well-known financial commentator, described Wingstop (WING) stock as "too tough a call." This suggests uncertainty or a lack of clear direction regarding the company's investment potential. Without further details, it implies Cramer advises caution or finds it difficult to make a definitive recommendation for the stock.
Jim Cramer Calls Wingstop (WING) “Too Tough a Call”
Jim Cramer commented on Wingstop (WING), stating it's "too tough a call" due to what he perceives as "too cavalier a management." Despite this, analysts from Stifel, Barclays, and Mizuho have issued varied price targets and ratings, acknowledging industry headwinds but also potential growth drivers. Wingstop still garners favor for its long-term potential from funds like Alger Small Cap Focus, citing new menu offerings and digital growth.
Jim Cramer Calls Wingstop (WING) "Too Tough a Call"
Jim Cramer commented that Wingstop (NASDAQ:WING) is "too tough a call" with "too cavalier a management." The company's shares are down 7.2% over the past year but up 5.7% year-to-date. Analysts like Stifel and Mizuho have lowered price targets while Barclays raised its target, reflecting mixed sentiments on the casual dining industry's headwinds.
A Wingstop favorite just became a bagel schmear
Wingstop and PopUp Bagels have collaborated to create a limited-edition "Lemon Pepper Schmear." This new product, launching on January 29th, will blend Wingstop's popular Lemon Pepper seasoning with PopUp Bagels' cream cheese spread. It will be available at all PopUp Bagels locations while supplies last.
Wingstop targets $3M AUVs with smart kitchen rollout and global expansion
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Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd Grows Stock Position in Wingstop Inc. $WING
Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd significantly increased its stake in Wingstop Inc. ($WING) by 787.0% in the third quarter, now owning 44,774 shares valued at $11.27 million. Other major institutions like American Century and Massachusetts Financial Services also boosted their positions, indicating strong institutional confidence. Wingstop has a market cap of $7.54 billion, a P/E of 44.2, and an average analyst rating of "Moderate Buy" with a target price of $340.
Wingstop (WING) Valuation Check As New Flavor Launches Draw Fresh Customer And Investor Attention
Wingstop (WING) is drawing customer and investor attention with new limited-time flavor launches and brand partnerships. The article assesses Wingstop's valuation, presenting a "Most Popular Narrative" suggesting it is 15% undervalued at $319 per share, largely due to operational efficiency improvements. However, an alternative Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model suggests the stock is currently expensive at its $271.39 price, valuing it at $242.24 per share.
Wingstop (WING): Our Calculation of Intrinsic Value
This article presents a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis for Wingstop Inc. (WING), calculating an intrinsic value of $11 per share compared to its current price of ~$285. The analysis highlights that despite Wingstop's compounding unit growth and strong business model, its current valuation reflects a significant growth premium with a limited margin of safety for value-oriented investors. The author notes that the company's asset-light franchise structure and digital ordering adoption drive strong free cash flow, but conservative DCF assumptions show it trading materially above its intrinsic value.
Wingstop and PopUp Bagels Team Up on "Lemon Pepper Schmear" for Bold Flavor, All Day Long
Wingstop and PopUp Bagels are collaborating to launch a limited-edition "Lemon Pepper Schmear," combining Wingstop's iconic flavor with PopUp Bagels' cream cheese. This innovative spread will be available at all PopUp Bagels locations starting January 29, leveraging the popularity of both brands to offer a new way for fans to enjoy the distinctive Lemon Pepper taste. The collaboration aims to extend the bold flavor experience from breakfast to game day, reinforcing Wingstop's reputation for unique flavor profiles.
Mizuho Anticipates Sustained Restaurant Price War Through 2026 as Chains Fight to Reclaim Market Share From Grocers
Mizuho predicts a sustained restaurant price war through 2026 as chains, like Wingstop, aim to win back market share from grocery stores following post-pandemic price hikes. Analysts at Mizuho, Stifel, and Barclays have revised price targets for Wingstop, reflecting varied outlooks on the industry's challenges and potential for quick-service restaurants to regain customers. Barclays suggests QSRs could benefit as value-conscious diners trade down from more expensive options.
Do Wingstop’s (WING) New Flavor Tie-ins Reveal a Deeper Brand-Led Growth Strategy?
Wingstop's (WING) recent introduction of limited-time flavors and the reinstatement of a Chief Operating Officer role indicate a focus on brand-led growth and operational discipline. While new flavor tie-ins reinforce Wingstop's brand, the article suggests they are unlikely to significantly impact the stock compared to upcoming Q4 results, new store openings, and global operations efficiency. The report highlights Wingstop's high valuation and the amplified execution risk for investors.
PopUp Bagels, Wingstop team up for lemon pepper schmear
PopUp Bagels and Wingstop are collaborating to introduce a limited-edition Lemon Pepper Schmear, combining Wingstop's iconic Lemon Pepper seasoning with PopUp Bagels' cream cheese. This unique flavored schmear will be available at all PopUp Bagels locations starting January 29 until supplies run out. The partnership aims to offer fans a bold new flavor experience for their bagels, reflecting the popularity of both brands.
