Brookdale Senior Living: Barclays Upgrade Fuels Momentum Amid Operational Improvements

Brookdale Senior Living shares have doubled this year, with a 104.35% YTD return and 41% QoQ growth. Barclays upgraded its rating citing operational changes and improved financial guidance. However, the stock's valuation raises questions, with a fair value of $8.81, which trails the recent close of $10.34. The company is benefiting from accelerating occupancy gains and rising profitability, but persistent labor pressures and high leverage could impact its story.