Ashford Hospitality Trust Inc. (NYSE:AHT) experienced a notable increase in short interest, rising by 23.5% during February. As of February 13, 2024, the total short interest reached **283,884 shares**, up from **229,829 shares** on January 29, 2024. This surge represents approximately **4.5%** of the company’s total shares outstanding. With an average trading volume of **53,141 shares**, the short-interest ratio currently stands at **5.3 days**.
On the trading front, shares of Ashford Hospitality Trust saw a modest increase of **1.7%** on Tuesday, closing at **$3.07**. A total of **21,129 shares** changed hands, which is slightly lower than the average volume of **51,644**. The company’s 50-day simple moving average is **$3.84**, while its 200-day simple moving average is **$4.59**. Over the past year, the stock has fluctuated between a low of **$2.74** and a high of **$8.54**. With a market capitalization of **$19.68 million**, the company reports a price-to-earnings ratio of **-0.09** and a beta of **1.69**.
Analyst Ratings and Institutional Investment Activity
Recent analyst evaluations reflect a cautious outlook for Ashford Hospitality Trust. On December 29, 2023, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a “sell (d-)” rating for the company. In contrast, Zacks Research upgraded the rating from “strong sell” to “hold” on January 22, 2024. Wall Street Zen also raised its rating to “hold,” indicating a mixed sentiment among analysts. Currently, one research analyst has issued a “hold” rating, while another has a “sell” rating for the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the average rating for Ashford Hospitality Trust remains at “Reduce.”
Institutional investors have actively adjusted their stakes in Ashford Hospitality Trust recently. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP made a new purchase in the third quarter valued at approximately **$103,000**. Meanwhile, State Street Corp increased its holdings by **41.8%** in the fourth quarter, bringing their total to **21,360 shares**, worth **$91,000** after purchasing an additional **6,300 shares**. Citadel Advisors LLC also acquired a new position during the third quarter, valued at about **$157,000**. Additionally, Susquehanna International Group LLP expanded its holdings by **49.2%**, now controlling **54,574 shares** valued at **$322,000**. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its stake by **8.8%** during the fourth quarter, now owning **64,309 shares** valued at **$274,000**. Overall, institutional investors hold approximately **41.04%** of the company’s stock.
About Ashford Hospitality Trust
Founded in **2003** and headquartered in **Dallas, Texas**, Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. (NYSE: AHT) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that specializes in acquiring, owning, and operating upscale and upper-upscale full-service hotels across the United States. Its portfolio encompasses various urban, resort, and convention-oriented markets, featuring both recognized national brands and independent properties. The company aims to create long-term value through active asset management, strategic acquisitions, and selective joint venture partnerships. Notable brands associated with Ashford Hospitality Trust include **Marriott**, **Hilton**, **Hyatt**, and **Starwood**.
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