Las Vegas Sphere stock is up 50% in 2024

Finance

Las Vegas Sphere stock is up 50% in 2024

Following its separation from Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp (NYSE: MSGE) in April 2023, Sphere Entertainment (NYSE: SPHR) appears to be thriving, with its stock surging by over 50% since the beginning of 2024.

A significant factor in its success has been the Las Vegas Sphere, unveiled on September 29. It quickly became a globally recognized tourist attraction and a sought-after venue for top bands worldwide. As reported on February 5, the venue generated $167.8 million in revenue in its first full quarter.

SPHR YTD stock price chart. Source: Google Finance

In addition to solid performance, SPHR stock also seems to receive strong backing from the companys executives.

Sphere CEO buys over $5 million worth of SPHR stock

Sphere‘s Chairman and CEO, James Lawrence Dolan, appears confident in the stock’s value at its current levels, evidenced by his recent purchases of the companys shares in February.

On February 26, Dolan acquired 59,374 shares of SPHR at an average price of $41.1 per share, totaling approximately $2.44 million. Two days later, on February 28, he further invested by purchasing 76,139 shares at a slightly lower average price of $40.7 each, amounting to around $3.1 million.

With these transactions totaling over $5.5 million, Dolan holds a stake of 1.93% of the company.

Analysts are cautiously optimistic about SPHR stock

Despite SPHR stock‘s strong year-to-date performance, the recent financial results of Sphere company have elicited mixed sentiments. Analysts from have awarded SPHR stock with a ’buy‘ rating based on seven evaluations. Two recommended a ’strong buy,‘ while five suggested a ’hold.

The average price target for Sphere stock is set at $42.50, signaling a decrease of -16.49% from the current valuation.

Analyst price targets for SPHR stock. Source: TradingView

Considering the stocks strong performance, mixed financials, support from the CEO, and analyst sentiment, SPHR stock presents a puzzle for investors, with compelling arguments on both sides. This underscores the importance of thorough research before making investment decisions.