For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Zacks Premium provides lots of different ways to do both.
The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.
Zacks Premium includes access to the Zacks Style Scores as well.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you like to use all three kinds of investing, then the VGM Score is for you. It's a combination of all Style Scores, and is an important indicator to use with the Zacks Rank. The VGM Score rates each stock on their shared weighted styles, narrowing down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) Headquartered in New York, OUTFRONT Media Inc. is a leading provider of out-of-home (OOH) advertisement space in key U.S. markets. With billboard and transit displays, the company provides advertising structures and sites to diverse industries across the largest markets in the United States. Its inventory consists of billboard displays primarily located on heavily traveled highways and roadways in top Nielsen Designated Market Areas and transit advertising displays operated under exclusive multi-year contracts with municipalities in large cities across the United States. The company has displays in approximately 120 markets across the United States, including the 25 largest markets. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company had approximately 19,100 lease agreements with approximately 17,500 different landlords.
OUT is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of B thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 14.19; value investors should take notice.
One analyst revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.02 to $2.26 per share. OUT boasts an average earnings surprise of +12.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, OUT should be on investors' short list.
Lamar Advertising (LAMR +0.00%) and Outfront Media (OUT +0.00%) are the two largest publicly traded billboard real estate investment trusts (REITs). Lamar operates more than 359,000 advertising displays in 45 U.S. states and Canada. Outfront operates a total of 552,877 advertising displays in the United States and Canada, with most of them being transit displays on subways, buses, and commuter rail stations, though it also has 38,240 billboards.
Both companies are seeing increased revenue from digital billboard advertising. So far this year, Lamar's shares are up more than 24%, while Outfront's stock has jumped more than 37%. The use of digital billboards has transformed the business. Lamar and Outfront are fundamentally real estate companies operating in vertical land. When they convert a traditional static vinyl billboard into a digital billboard, the economics change dramatically.
Instead of renting a billboard or sign to one advertiser for a month, a digital board can rotate eight to 10 distinct advertisers every few seconds. Because companies don't have to pay a crew to physically drive out and paste new vinyl sheets, the incremental cost of adding a new digital ad is virtually zero.
Here are three reasons to buy each stock right now.
Image source: Getty Images.
Steady, high-yielding dividends Since raising its quarterly dividend from $0.10 to $0.30 per share in 2022, Outfront Media has kept its dividend the same, and it is now yielding around 3.6% at its current share price. The company's adjusted funds from operations (AFFO) payout ratio is 88%, well within the safety guidelines for a REIT.
Lamar Advertising pays a quarterly dividend of $1.60 per share, yielding around 4.03% at its current share price. Its AFFO payout ratio of 93% is high, but since the company is estimating yearly AFFO per share between $8.50 and $8.70, that payout ratio will drop to 74.4% at the midpoint.
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A resilient local customer base Both companies are somewhat insulated from the volatile swings of national advertising budgets because most of their tenants are local businesses. Outfront Media's clients are about 60% local businesses, while Lamar Advertising said that roughly 80% of its tenants are local businesses, such as local personal injury lawyers, restaurants, realtors, and hospitals.
National advertisers enjoy a wide range of advertising options, but local businesses do not. Traditional local media such as radio, print, and linear TV are shrinking due to declining audiences. Meanwhile, changes at big tech companies have made it harder for digital advertisers to access mobile location data, limiting geotargeting capabilities.
These business owners view their neighborhood billboards as essential tollbooths on major commuter routes. This hyper-local demand provides an incredibly steady, sticky stream of cash flow that standard digital advertising companies can't copy.
With the highly contested 2026 U.S. midterm elections approaching, political ad spending is projected to exceed $11 billion, according to AdImpact.
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Dependable growth for both Lamar reported revenue of $528 million in the first quarter, up 4.5% year over year, while free cash flow rose 15.3% from the same quarter a year ago to $152.4 million. AFFO per share was $1.72, up 7.5% year over year.
Outfront reported revenue of $429.6 million in Q1, up 9.9% year over year, while free cash flow was $75.3 million, an increase of 124% over the same period a year ago. AFFO per share was $0.34, up 143% year over year.
The top stock isn't clear-cut Outfront has a greater debt load that eats into its free cash flow, and it is more exposed to the vagaries of national ad spending.
However, between the two stocks, Outfront shows greater revenue growth. It also shows triple-digit growth in free cash flow and adjusted funds from operations. After its share run-up this year, it trades at only a slightly higher trailing price-to-earnings ratio than Lamar, and it appears to be worth that valuation.
, /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE: OUT) announced today that it will report results for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2026, after the market closes on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. The earnings announcement will be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.outfront.com.
The Company will host a conference call to discuss the results on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The conference call numbers are 833-461-5787 (U.S. callers) and 585-542-9983 (International callers) and the passcode for both is 274204534.
Live and replay versions of the conference call will be webcast in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.outfront.com.
About OUTFRONT Media Inc.
OUTFRONT is one of the largest and most trusted out-of-home media companies in the U.S., helping brands connect with audiences in the moments and environments that matter most. As OUTFRONT evolves, it's defining a new era of in-real-life (IRL) marketing, turning public spaces into platforms for creativity, connection, and cultural relevance. With a nationwide footprint across billboards, digital displays, transit systems, and other out-of-home formats, OUTFRONT turns creative into powerful real-world experiences. Its in-house agency, OUTFRONT STUDIOS, and award-winning innovation team, XLabs, deliver standout storytelling, supported by advanced technology and data tools that can drive measurable impact.
Key Takeaways OUTFRONT Media shares rose 35.8% in six months, outpacing the industry's 9.9% growth. OUT expanded digital billboards, with digital revenues up 11.5%. OUT expects acquisition activity in 2026 to match recent years, supported by a strong pipeline. OUTFRONT Media (OUT - Free Report) shares have gained 35.8% in the past six months compared with the industry’s growth of 9.9%.
This New York-based real estate investment trust (REIT) enjoys a diversified portfolio of advertising sites in some of the key markets in the United States. Moreover, the company’s strategic investments in the digital billboard portfolio support its digital revenue growth. It also expands through acquisitions while benefiting from the high barriers to entry that characterize the out-of-home (OOH) advertising industry.
Analysts seem optimistic about this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 FFO per share has moved 4 cents northward over the past two months to $2.26.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Factors Behind the OUT Stock Price RiseOUTFRONT Media’s advertising sites are geographically diversified, with displays across approximately 120 markets in the United States, including the 25 largest markets. Its broad footprint enables advertisers to reach a national audience while tailoring campaigns to specific regions or local markets. The company’s geographical diversification, combined with a broad mix of advertisers across industries, helps reduce dependence on any single market or customer segment, supporting relatively stable revenue generation. For 2026, we estimate its total revenues to grow 7.3% year over year.
OUTFRONT Media has been making strategic investments in its digital billboard portfolio over the years, and these investments continue to support revenue growth. Digital billboard displays generate approximately four to five times more revenue per display, on average, than comparable traditional static billboard displays. Total digital revenues increased 11.5% year over year to $142.6 million in the first quarter, while automated sales represented 20.3% of digital revenues.
OUTFRONT Media has also capitalized on acquisitions to enhance its portfolio. In the first quarter of 2026, the company completed several asset acquisitions for a total purchase price of approximately $8.1 million. Management remains interested in attractive tuck-in acquisitions within its footprint. Based on the current acquisition pipeline, it expects 2026 deal activity to be similar to the levels reached in recent years.
OUTFRONT Media operates in an industry characterized by high barriers to entry due to permitting restrictions. The company owns permits for many of its OOH advertising locations, and these permits represent some of its most valuable assets because obtaining new permits is often difficult. Limited permitting constrains the addition of new advertising inventory and reduces competitive encroachment from local and national operators, helping support advertising rates over time.
In the upcoming years, higher technology investments are expected to provide further support for OOH advertising. The company is expanding its footprint and providing a technology platform for marketers to tap into growth opportunities.
Given the above-mentioned factors, we believe the stock’s rising trend is expected to continue in the near term.
Key Risks for OUTOUTFRONT Media’s revenues and operating results are sensitive to fluctuations in advertising expenditures, general economic conditions and other unexpected external events. Moreover, the company faces competition from other outdoor advertisers for customers, display locations and structures. This is anticipated to affect its pricing power in the market.
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks from the broader REIT sector are Cousins Properties (CUZ - Free Report) and Welltower (WELL - Free Report) , each carrying a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CUZ’s 2026 FFO per share is pegged at $2.95, which indicates year-over-year growth of 3.87%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WELL’s full-year FFO per share is pinned at $6.32, which calls for an increase of 19.47% from the year-ago period’s level.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents FFO, a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) Headquartered in New York, OUTFRONT Media Inc. is a leading provider of out-of-home (OOH) advertisement space in key U.S. markets. With billboard and transit displays, the company provides advertising structures and sites to diverse industries across the largest markets in the United States. Its inventory consists of billboard displays primarily located on heavily traveled highways and roadways in top Nielsen Designated Market Areas and transit advertising displays operated under exclusive multi-year contracts with municipalities in large cities across the United States. The company has displays in approximately 120 markets across the United States, including the 25 largest markets. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company had approximately 19,100 lease agreements with approximately 17,500 different landlords.
OUT is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of B thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 14.57; value investors should take notice.
Three analysts revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.04 to $2.26 per share. OUT also boasts an average earnings surprise of +12.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, OUT should be on investors' short list.
Outfront Media (OUT) saw its shares surge in the last session with trading volume being higher than average. The latest trend in FFO estimate revisions could translate into further price increase in the near term.
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreWhile good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.
Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you like to use all three kinds of investing, then the VGM Score is for you. It's a combination of all Style Scores, and is an important indicator to use with the Zacks Rank. The VGM Score rates each stock on their shared weighted styles, narrowing down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
#1 (Strong Buy) stocks have produced an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988, which is more than double the S&P 500's performance over the same time frame. However, the Zacks Rank examines a ton of stocks, and there can be more than 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, and another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
With more than 800 top-rated stocks to choose from, it can certainly feel overwhelming to pick the ones that are right for you and your investing journey.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) Headquartered in New York, OUTFRONT Media Inc. is a leading provider of out-of-home (OOH) advertisement space in key U.S. markets. With billboard and transit displays, the company provides advertising structures and sites to diverse industries across the largest markets in the United States. Its inventory consists of billboard displays primarily located on heavily traveled highways and roadways in top Nielsen Designated Market Areas and transit advertising displays operated under exclusive multi-year contracts with municipalities in large cities across the United States. The company has displays in approximately 120 markets across the United States, including the 25 largest markets. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company had approximately 19,100 lease agreements with approximately 17,500 different landlords.
OUT is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Momentum investors should take note of this Finance stock. OUT has a Momentum Style Score of B, and shares are up 3.1% over the past four weeks.
Three analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.04 to $2.26 per share. OUT boasts an average earnings surprise of +12.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, OUT should be on investors' short list.
Key Takeaways OUT's digital revenues rose 11.5% year over year to $142.6M in the first quarter of 2026.OUT's automated sales reached 20.3% of digital revenues, up from 16.3% a year earlier.OUT expanded premium transit inventory at Los Angeles Union Station, a World Cup 26 Fan Zone. OUTFRONT Media Inc. (OUT - Free Report) is becoming a useful read-through for how out-of-home (OOH) advertising is changing in 2026.
The company’s digital conversion, automated sales, premium transit inventory and ad-tech partnerships point to a more flexible model. Still, regulation, municipal contract exposure and inflation-linked costs keep the story grounded in real-world execution.
OUTFRONT Media Rides the Digital OOH ShiftDigital inventory remains central to OUT’s growth profile. Total digital revenues increased 11.5% year over year to $142.6 million in the first quarter of 2026.
Automated sales represented 20.3% of digital revenues, up from 16.3% in the prior-year quarter. That mix suggests digital OOH is becoming easier for advertisers to buy, measure and scale, which can improve the quality of revenue over time.
OUT Uses Transit to Expand Premium InventoryTransit is also moving beyond basic ad placement. OUT recently launched its inaugural advertising and experiential program at Los Angeles Union Station, adding a marquee destination to its premium OOH portfolio.
The station has a target audience averaging 14.8 million. Its large-format digital networks across key touchpoints expand premium transit inventory, while its role as an official Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zone could support event-driven advertiser interest.
OUTFRONT Media Leans Into Ad Tech PartnershipsOUT is not just adding screens; it is investing in the systems that help sell and manage them. The company has boosted its digital capabilities through a commercial agreement with Amazon Web Services tied to AI-enabled workflow modernization.
It also entered into agreements with AdQuick in February 2026. Under the deal, AdQuick licenses its OOHsales cloud product to OUT for an initial three-year term at an annual fee of $17 million. OUT is also investing up to $20 million in AdQuick, subject to milestone payments.
OUT Still Faces Real-World Cost and Permit HurdlesOUT benefits from permit-based barriers to entry. Outdoor advertising permits are valuable because permitting restrictions limit new inventory and make it harder for competitors to add displays in attractive locations.
That same physical-media model carries complexity. OUT must navigate regulations at international, federal, state and local levels, while its transit business depends on multi-year municipal contracts that require renewals and competitive bidding. Transit franchise expenses rose 2.9% year over year in the first quarter, mainly due to higher guaranteed minimum annual payments to the MTA tied to inflation.
How OUT Signals Reflect These Industry ChangesThe bottom line is that OUT has credible exposure to several important OOH trends, but the investment case still depends on execution. Digital automation, premium transit assets and technology partnerships support the growth story, while contract, regulatory and cost pressures remain real constraints.
OUT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). It also has a Value Score of B, Growth Score of B, Momentum Score of B and VGM Score of A. The Style Scores suggest the shares screen well across multiple investing styles, while the Hold rank points to a balanced near-term setup rather than a clear all-in signal.
In the past three months, shares of this company have gained 15.1% compared with the industry's growth of 7.1%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Investors comparing OUT with other REIT-linked names may also watch American Tower Corporation (AMT - Free Report) , which offers a different real-asset model tied to communications infrastructure. Cousins Properties Incorporated (CUZ - Free Report) provides another REIT comparison point for assessing how property-backed companies balance growth prospects, capital needs and income expectations. AMT currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), while CUZ also carries a Zacks Rank #2. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO) — a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
Key Takeaways OUTFRONT Media draws investor attention as digital and transit advertising trends improve in 2026.OUT's transit revenues rose 22.3% in Q1, with digital transit revenues up 25.6% to $44.7M.OUT expects about 125 digital billboard additions in 2026, as displays average 4-5x static revenue. OUTFRONT Media Inc. (OUT - Free Report) has drawn closer investor attention as digital and transit advertising trends improve in 2026.
The setup is not one-sided. A broad U.S. footprint, improving transit demand and digital conversions support growth, while advertising cyclicality and capital needs keep the outlook balanced.
OUTFRONT Media Has a Wide National Ad Footprint
OUTFRONT is one of the largest U.S. out-of-home advertising operators, with billboard and transit displays in approximately 120 markets, including the 25 largest markets. Its billboard assets are mainly located on heavily traveled highways and roadways, while its transit displays are operated through municipal contracts in large U.S. cities.
That mix gives brands national reach with local execution. It also diversifies OUT’s revenue base across advertiser categories, with entertainment, legal services/lawyers and retail representing 18%, 12% and 10%, respectively, of first-quarter 2026 Billboard and Transit segment revenues.
OUT Gains From Digital Billboard ExpansionDigital conversion remains one of OUT’s clearer growth levers. Total digital displays reached 31,565 as of March 31, 2026, including 1,932 digital billboard displays and 29,633 digital transit displays.
The company converted 14 new billboards to digital in the first quarter and expects to add about 125 for the full year. Digital billboard displays generate roughly four to five times more revenue per display on average than comparable static billboard displays, although they also carry higher costs.
OUTFRONT Media Sees Transit Demand ImproveTransit is a major part of the 2026 improvement story. First-quarter transit revenues rose 22.3% year over year to $95.0 million, while digital transit revenues increased 25.6% to $44.7 million.
Management expects second-quarter revenue growth to exceed 10%, supported by about 30% growth in transit and mid-single-digit growth in billboard. The launch of OUT’s advertising and experiential program at Los Angeles Union Station adds premium transit inventory, with the station’s World Cup 26 Fan Zone role adding potential brand appeal.
OUT Faces Cyclical Ad Demand and Higher SpendingAdvertising remains economically sensitive. OUT’s revenues and operating results are exposed to shifts in advertiser budgets, general economic conditions and competition from online, mobile, social media, television, radio, print and other out-of-home formats.
Capital spending is another constraint. Total capital expenditures rose 40.1% year over year to $24.1 million in the first quarter, and management still expects approximately $90 million of capital expenditures in 2026, including $30-$35 million of maintenance capital expenditures.
How OUT Signals Fit the Current SetupThe bottom line is that OUT’s operating signals look constructive, but not without offsets. Digital adoption, transit momentum and portfolio breadth support the growth case, while cyclical ad demand, competition and capital intensity argue for patience.
OUT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), with a Value Score of B, Growth Score of B, Momentum Score of B and VGM Score of A. That combination points to balanced style appeal, but the Hold rank keeps the near-term view measured rather than outright bullish.
In the past three months, shares of this company have gained 15.1% compared with the industry's growth of 7.1%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Within the broader REIT space, American Tower Corporation (AMT - Free Report) and Cousins Properties Incorporated (CUZ - Free Report) offer useful context for investors comparing real estate-backed income and growth profiles. AMT currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), while CUZ also carries a Zacks Rank #2, giving investors other REIT names to monitor alongside OUT’s improving but still mixed setup. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO) — a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
Key Takeaways OUT trades at 13.77X forward FFO, below sub-industry, sector and S&P 500 valuation benchmarks.OUT's Q1 AFFO per share beat estimates as revenues rose 10%; expects mid-teens 2026 AFFO per share growth.OUT carries $2.6B debt and higher capex needs, though liquidity and a $1.20 annual dividend support. OUTFRONT Media Inc. (OUT - Free Report) presents a balanced case for investors. Recent execution has improved, adjusted funds from operations (AFFO) expectations have moved higher and the stock trades below several valuation benchmarks.
The offset is that this remains a cyclical, advertising-driven REIT with elevated leverage, meaningful capital needs and sensitivity to broader ad spending trends. That makes OUT look interesting, but not risk-free.
OUT Trades at a Discount to BenchmarksOUT trades at 14.67X forward 12-month FFO, below 16.98X for the Zacks sub-industry, 16.18X for the sector and 21.39X for the S&P 500 Index. That discount supports the argument that valuation is not stretched.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Still, the upside case is measured. The $33 price target reflects 14.50X FFO, suggesting modest room from recent levels rather than a deep-discount setup. Investors comparing OUT with Lamar Advertising Company (LAMR - Free Report) and Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (CCO - Free Report) may view it as part of the broader out-of-home advertising recovery theme, but valuation alone is not enough to settle the buy case.
OUT Shows Better AFFO SetupThe better part of the story is operating momentum. Management expects 2026 consolidated AFFO to rise in the mid-teens, while the projection calls for 15.9% growth.
First-quarter 2026 results helped improve sentiment. AFFO of 34 cents per share beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 28 cents by 21.43%. Revenues increased 10% year over year to $429.6 million, while adjusted OIBDA rose 56.4% to $100.4 million.
Transit was a key driver, with revenues up 22.3% to $95 million. Billboard revenues rose 7.1% to $332.9 million, supported by higher proceeds from condemnations and better average revenue per display.
OUT Continues to Face Balance Sheet PressureOUT is not an uncomplicated value idea. Total indebtedness stood at $2.6 billion as of March 31, 2026 and the weighted average cost of debt was 5.3%.
Leverage also remains elevated. Debt-to-equity was 3.90, while debt-to-capital was 79.74%. Those figures matter because the company still needs to fund digital expansion and maintain its asset base.
Capital spending adds another constraint. Total capital expenditures rose 40.1% year over year to $24.1 million in the first quarter, and management still expects roughly $90 million of capital expenditures for 2026, including $30-$35 million of maintenance spending.
OUT Dividend and Cash Flow MatterThe income angle remains part of the appeal. OUT maintained its quarterly dividend at 30 cents per share, implying an annualized dividend of $1.20 and a yield near 3.8%.
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Liquidity also provides support. As of March 31, 2026, OUT had $67.2 million in unrestricted cash, $494.9 million of availability under its revolving credit facility and $150 million of additional availability under its accounts receivable securitization facility.
That liquidity helps, but it does not erase the cash demands. Dividends, capital expenditures, interest costs and digital investments all compete for capital.
How OUT Rating Signals Fit the DebateThe bottom line is that OUT looks more like a wait-and-see stock than a clear buy. The valuation is below key benchmarks, and AFFO growth is improving, but leverage and capital spending keep the risk-reward balanced.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), which supports a neutral near-term stance. Its VGM Score of A, along with a Value Score of B, Growth Score of B and Momentum Score of B, shows a favorable blend of style characteristics. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
That mix can appeal to investors seeking a balanced REIT profile with improving fundamentals. For now, OUT’s setup is constructive but not decisive.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO) — a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) came out with quarterly funds from operations (FFO) of $0.34 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.28 per share. This compares to FFO of $0.14 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an FFO surprise of +20.35%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this billboard, transit and digital display advertising company would post FFO of $0.71 per share when it actually produced FFO of $0.73, delivering a surprise of +2.82%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus FFO estimates four times.
Outfront Media, which belongs to the Zacks REIT and Equity Trust - Other industry, posted revenues of $429.6 million for the quarter ended March 2026, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.32%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $390.7 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future FFO expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Outfront Media shares have added about 31.7% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 7.6%.
What's Next for Outfront Media?While Outfront Media has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's FFO outlook. Not only does this include current consensus FFO expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Outfront Media was favorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to outperform the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus FFO estimate is $0.55 on $480.65 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $2.23 on $1.92 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, REIT and Equity Trust - Other is currently in the top 26% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Sky Harbour Group Corporation (SKYH - Free Report) , another stock in the broader Zacks Finance sector, has yet to report results for the quarter ended March 2026.
This company is expected to post quarterly loss of $0.19 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -72.7%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
Sky Harbour Group Corporation's revenues are expected to be $10.17 million, up 81.9% from the year-ago quarter.
A strong stock as of late has been Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) . Shares have been marching higher, with the stock up 11.8% over the past month. The stock hit a new 52-week high of $33.08 in the previous session. Outfront Media has gained 36.1% since the start of the year compared to the -0% move for the Zacks Finance sector and the 11.6% return for the Zacks REIT and Equity Trust - Other industry.
What's Driving the Outperformance?The stock has a great record of positive earnings surprises, as it hasn't missed our earnings consensus estimate in any of the last four quarters. In its last earnings report on May 7, 2026, Outfront Media reported EPS of $0.11 versus consensus estimate of $0.28.
For the current fiscal year, Outfront Media is expected to post earnings of $2.23 per share on $1.93 in revenues. This represents a 12.06% change in EPS on a 5.58% change in revenues. For the next fiscal year, the company is expected to earn $2.28 per share on $1.98 in revenues. This represents a year-over-year change of 2.02% and 2.34%, respectively.
Valuation MetricsOutfront Media may be at a 52-week high right now, but what might the future hold for the stock? A key aspect of this question is taking a look at valuation metrics in order to determine if the company is due for a pullback from this level.
On this front, we can look at the Zacks Style Scores, as these give investors a variety of ways to comb through stocks (beyond looking at the Zacks Rank of a security). These styles are represented by grades running from A to F in the categories of Value, Growth, and Momentum, while there is a combined VGM Score as well. The idea behind the style scores is to help investors pick the most appropriate Zacks Rank stocks based on their individual investment style.
Outfront Media has a Value Score of C. The stock's Growth and Momentum Scores are B and C, respectively, giving the company a VGM Score of B.
In terms of its value breakdown, the stock currently trades at 14.7X current fiscal year EPS estimates, which is a premium to the peer industry average of 12.5X. On a trailing cash flow basis, the stock currently trades at 17.5X versus its peer group's average of 12.8X. Additionally, the stock has a PEG ratio of 1.47. This isn't enough to put the company in the top echelon of all stocks we cover from a value perspective.
Zacks RankWe also need to look at the Zacks Rank for the stock, as this is even more important than the company's VGM Score. Fortunately, Outfront Media currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) thanks to favorable earnings estimate revisions from covering analysts.
Since we recommend that investors select stocks carrying Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) and Style Scores of A or B, it looks as if Outfront Media fits the bill. Thus, it seems as though Outfront Media shares could still be poised for more gains ahead.
Investors seek growth stocks to capitalize on above-average growth in financials that help these securities grab the market's attention and produce exceptional returns. But finding a great growth stock is not easy at all.
In addition to volatility, these stocks carry above-average risk by their very nature. Also, one could end up losing from a stock whose growth story is actually over or nearing its end.
However, it's pretty easy to find cutting-edge growth stocks with the help of the Zacks Growth Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which looks beyond the traditional growth attributes to analyze a company's real growth prospects.
Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) is one such stock that our proprietary system currently recommends. The company not only has a favorable Growth Score, but also carries a top Zacks Rank.
Studies have shown that stocks with the best growth features consistently outperform the market. And for stocks that have a combination of a Growth Score of A or B and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy), returns are even better.
Here are three of the most important factors that make the stock of this billboard, transit and digital display advertising company a great growth pick right now.
Earnings GrowthEarnings growth is arguably the most important factor, as stocks exhibiting exceptionally surging profit levels tend to attract the attention of most investors. For growth investors, double-digit earnings growth is highly preferable, as it is often perceived as an indication of strong prospects (and stock price gains) for the company under consideration.
While the historical EPS growth rate for Outfront Media is 23.6%, investors should actually focus on the projected growth. The company's EPS is expected to grow 12.2% this year, crushing the industry average, which calls for EPS growth of 3.1%.
Impressive Asset Utilization RatioAsset utilization ratio -- also known as sales-to-total-assets (S/TA) ratio -- is often overlooked by investors, but it is an important indicator in growth investing. This metric exhibits how efficiently a firm is utilizing its assets to generate sales.
Right now, Outfront Media has an S/TA ratio of 0.36, which means that the company gets $0.36 in sales for each dollar in assets. Comparing this to the industry average of 0.13, it can be said that the company is more efficient.
In addition to efficiency in generating sales, sales growth plays an important role. And Outfront Media looks attractive from a sales growth perspective as well. The company's sales are expected to grow 5.6% this year versus the industry average of 2.1%.
Promising Earnings Estimate RevisionsSuperiority of a stock in terms of the metrics outlined above can be further validated by looking at the trend in earnings estimate revisions. A positive trend is of course favorable here. Empirical research shows that there is a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
There have been upward revisions in current-year earnings estimates for Outfront Media. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has surged 0.5% over the past month.
Bottom LineOutfront Media has not only earned a Growth Score of B based on a number of factors, including the ones discussed above, but it also carries a Zacks Rank #2 because of the positive earnings estimate revisions.
You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
This combination positions Outfront Media well for outperformance, so growth investors may want to bet on it.
Key Takeaways OUT posted Q1 AFFO of 34 cents, topping estimates as revenues climbed 10% year over year.OUT's transit revenues surged 22.3%, with digital making up 47.1% of segment revenue.OUT generated $75.3M in operating cash flow, up 124.1% from the prior-year quarter. OUTFRONT Media Inc. (OUT - Free Report) posted first-quarter 2026 adjusted funds from operations (AFFO) of 34 cents per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 28 cents by 21.43%. Revenues rose 10% year over year to $429.6 million and topped expectations by 2.32%.
Results reflected stronger pricing and demand across the portfolio, with transit revenues up 22.3% and billboard yield improving 11%. Digital revenues also remained a meaningful contributor, with automated channels supporting revenue quality and mix.
OUT Sees Billboard Gains, Lifted by Condemnation ProceedsBillboard revenues increased 7.1% year over year to $332.9 million. Management attributed the improvement to higher proceeds from condemnations and an increase in average revenue per display (yield), including the impact of programmatic platforms on digital billboard revenues.
Operationally, billboard yield increased to $2,911 per average display per month from $2,623 a year ago. The mix showed digital billboard revenues representing 29.4% of total billboard revenues in the quarter, helping support pricing even as the company continued to work through lost billboards in the period.
OUT’s Transit Momentum Remains the StandoutTransit revenues rose 22.3% year over year to $95 million. The increase was driven primarily by higher average revenues per display, partially offset by the impact of new and lost transit franchise contracts.
Digital is also a sizable part of the transit model. Digital represented 47.1% of transit revenues in the quarter, up from 45.8% a year ago, underscoring the role of digital deployments and yield improvement in accelerating top-line performance across key transit markets.
OUT Expands Profit Leverage as Revenue Outpaces CostsProfitability improved sharply in the quarter, driven by strong operating leverage. Operating income climbed to $55.9 million from $13.9 million in the year-ago period, reflecting solid revenue growth that materially outpaced expense growth.
Adjusted OIBDA increased 56.4% year over year to $100.4 million, pushing the adjusted OIBDA margin to 23.4% from 16.4% a year ago. Segment dynamics mattered: billboard adjusted OIBDA improved to $116.4 million from $99 million, while the transit adjusted OIBDA loss narrowed to $1.40 million, signaling meaningful improvement in transit profitability versus the prior-year quarter.
OUT’s Expense Mix Shows Targeted Pressure PointsTotal operating expenses increased 2.8% year over year to $227.5 million. The company cited higher variable billboard property lease expenses and higher transit franchise costs, including higher guaranteed minimum annual payments to the New York MTA due to inflation, along with higher production, maintenance and utilities costs.
Notably, SG&A moved in the other direction. Selling, general and administrative expenses declined 6.5% to $107.3 million, primarily due to lower compensation-related expenses, including severance and salaries, and lower customer credit card usage by customers.
OUT Delivers Strong Cash Generation and Higher CapexCash generation strengthened alongside the earnings rebound. Net cash flow provided by operating activities was $75.3 million in the quarter, increased 124.1%, driven by higher net income adjusted, the timing of accounts receivables, and a decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses.
Investment spending also stepped up. Total capital expenditures rose 40.1% year over year to $24.1 million, due to increased growth in digital displays, higher maintenance spending for billboard display upgrades and spending for safety-related projects.
OUT Highlights Liquidity and Maintains PayoutOUT ended the quarter with $67.2 million in unrestricted cash. Liquidity also included $494.9 million of availability under the revolving credit facility and $150 million of additional availability under the accounts receivable securitization facility, providing flexibility for operations and investment priorities. Total indebtedness was $2.6 billion as of March 31, 2026, and the weighted average cost of debt stood at 5.3%.
On capital returns, the company declared a quarterly dividend of 30 cents per share, payable on June 30, 2026.
OUT’s Zacks RankCurrently, OUTFRONT Media has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Performance of Other REITsVornado Realty Trust (VNO - Free Report) posted first-quarter 2026 FFO, as adjusted, of 52 cents per share, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. This compares unfavorably to the FFO of 63 cents a year ago. Total revenues of $459.11 million edged down 0.5% year over year but beat the consensus mark by 3.57%.
Results displayed year-over-year growth in same-store net operating income and occupancy for the New York and THE MART portfolios. The company witnessed decent leasing activities in these portfolios.
Iron Mountain Incorporated (IRM - Free Report) reported first-quarter 2026 AFFO per share of $1.43, topping the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.88%. The figure grew 22.2% year over year. Total revenues of $1.94 billion beat the consensus mark by 4.31% and rose 21.6% year over year.
The quarter reflected broad-based momentum, led by strong expansion in growth businesses and solid pricing in the core storage franchise. Organic revenue growth was 17.2% year over year, underscoring continued demand and effective revenue management. The company raised its 2026 AFFO per share outlook.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents FFO — a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
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What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.
VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.7% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) Headquartered in New York, OUTFRONT Media Inc. is a leading provider of OOH advertisement space in key markets throughout the United States. With billboard and transit displays, the company provides advertising structures and sites to diverse industries across the largest markets in the United States. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company had approximately 19,100 lease agreements with approximately 17,500 different landlords.
OUT is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Momentum investors should take note of this Finance stock. OUT has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 9.3% over the past four weeks.
For fiscal 2026, two analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.02 to $2.23 per share. OUT boasts an average earnings surprise of +12.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, OUT should be on investors' short list.
OUTFRONT Media NYSE: OUT reported first-quarter 2026 results that exceeded management’s prior expectations, with revenue gains in both its billboard and transit segments and a sharp increase in adjusted OIBDA and AFFO, executives said on the company’s earnings call.
Chief Executive Officer Nick Brien said consolidated revenue rose 10% in the quarter, supported by 22% growth in transit revenue and 7% growth in billboard revenue. Consolidated adjusted OIBDA increased 56% to about $100 million, while AFFO more than doubled to $61 million.
Brien said the quarter included $13.5 million of billboard condemnation revenue and related OIBDA that the company had previously highlighted when providing guidance in February. Excluding that item and the impact of the company’s exit from a large, marginally profitable billboard contract in Los Angeles, billboard revenue would have grown more than 4%, he said.
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Transit Growth Led by New York MTA Transit was the strongest area of growth in the quarter. Brien said transit revenue increased 22%, led by the New York MTA, which rose more than 26% in the period. The company’s strongest transit categories were technology and financial services, while its strongest billboard categories were legal and technology.
Chief Financial Officer Matthew Siegel said the MTA remains central to the company’s transit performance, noting that it accounts for more than half of OUTFRONT’s transit revenue and is “about seven or eight times” the size of the company’s next-largest transit franchise. He also said San Francisco’s BART franchise performed well, supported by technology advertising and repopulation trends in the city.
Transit adjusted OIBDA improved by about $13 million from the prior year, reaching a loss of slightly more than $1 million. Transit expenses increased just under 5%, including higher franchise expense, display production costs, posting and rotation costs, compensation-related expenses and professional fees.
Siegel said OUTFRONT now expects 2026 New York MTA revenue to exceed the defined baseline revenue level, commonly referred to as the minimum annual guarantee, or MAG. Because of that, the company expects to return to recouping digital investments made in the MTA contract since 2018. He said incremental expenses above the MAG will reduce OUTFRONT’s recoupable investment balance rather than be paid in cash, making incremental revenue “extremely accretive on a cash basis.”
Digital and Programmatic Revenue Continue to Expand Digital revenue grew more than 11% in the quarter and represented about one-third of total revenue, Brien said. Excluding the exited Los Angeles contract, digital revenue would have grown nearly 15%. Programmatic and digital direct automated sales increased nearly 40% and represented 20% of total digital revenue, up from 16% a year earlier.
Brien also highlighted the hiring of senior digital sales leader Jeff Hackett, saying the addition was intended to advance OUTFRONT’s evolution into a media company focused on digital expertise, audience intelligence and measurable outcomes. He said Hackett’s leadership would help the company maximize its ad technology stack, data management platform and trading partnerships.
On measurement, Siegel said in response to an analyst question that the out-of-home industry has been “behind” on measurement capabilities but that OUTFRONT and other industry leaders are working with the OAAA and Geopath to move the issue forward. He pointed to OUTFRONT’s partnerships with AWS and AdQuick, saying AdQuick has measurement capabilities that could demonstrate a viable currency and potentially serve as a proof of concept for broader industry adoption.
Billboard Segment Benefits from Condemnation Revenue Billboard revenue rose 7.1% on a reported basis. Static and other billboard revenue increased 7.6%, while digital billboard revenue rose 6.1%. Excluding the condemnation revenue and the exited Los Angeles contract, static and other billboard revenue would have been up nearly 2%, and digital billboard revenue would have been up more than 10%, Brien said.
Billboard yield increased 11% year over year to more than $2,900 per month, driven by higher rates and billboard condemnations. Excluding condemnation revenue from both periods, billboard yield would have increased about 6.5%.
Siegel said billboard expenses rose about $5 million, or roughly 2%, from the prior year. Lease costs increased about 2%, driven by higher variable lease costs and fixed lease escalators, partly offset by $4 million of savings from the Los Angeles contract exit. Total billboard adjusted OIBDA increased about $17 million, or 18%. Excluding the impact of condemnation revenue, billboard OIBDA would have been up around 4%.
Guidance Improves as Spring and Summer Demand Holds Stephan Bisson, senior vice president of investor relations, said the company expects second-quarter revenue growth to accelerate to more than 10% year over year, driven by about 30% growth in transit and mid-single-digit growth in billboard. He said those expectations include a benefit related to the United States’ role as a World Cup host in June and July, as well as a headwind from the exited Los Angeles billboard contract, which generated about $4.4 million of revenue in the second quarter of 2025.
During the question-and-answer session, Siegel said OUTFRONT was not prepared to quantify the World Cup impact, but said the company had about 70 customers tied to the event and still expected to book additional business in the second and third quarters. Brien added that OUTFRONT has more than 40% of FIFA sponsors as customers and views the tournament as an opportunity to demonstrate how major brands can use its media in real-world environments.
Based on first-quarter results, expected revenue growth and business investments, Siegel said OUTFRONT now expects reported 2026 consolidated AFFO to grow in the mid-teens compared with reported 2025 AFFO of $338 million. The outlook includes maintenance capital expenditures, approximately $145 million of interest expense and a small amount of cash taxes.
Balance Sheet, Dividend and Investment Plans OUTFRONT ended the quarter with more than $700 million of committed liquidity, including $70 million of cash, around $500 million available through its revolver and $150 million available through its accounts receivable securitization facility. Net leverage was 4.3 times as of March 31, within the company’s 4 times to 5 times target range.
The company’s board maintained a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per share, payable June 30 to shareholders of record as of June 5. Siegel said OUTFRONT spent just over $8 million on acquisitions during the quarter and continues to expect full-year acquisition activity to be similar to recent years.
Capital expenditures totaled about $24 million in the first quarter, including about $7 million of maintenance spending. OUTFRONT converted 14 billboards to digital during the quarter and expects to add about 125 digital billboard conversions for the full year. The company continues to expect approximately $90 million of capital expenditures in 2026, including $30 million to $35 million for maintenance.
Brien closed the call by pointing to OUTFRONT’s strategic repositioning around what the company calls “IRL Media,” emphasizing the value of physical media in a changing advertising environment. He said the organization has begun to see the benefits of initiatives launched in 2025 and said management expects to provide more detail when it reports second-quarter results in August.
About OUTFRONT Media NYSE: OUTOUTFRONT Media Inc is a leading out-of-home (OOH) advertising company offering a broad range of billboard, transit and digital display solutions across major urban markets in the United States and Canada. Its portfolio encompasses traditional static billboards, high-resolution digital signage, transit media on buses, trains and taxis, as well as street furniture placements such as bus shelters, kiosks and urban panels. The company partners with brand marketers to deliver high-impact campaigns that engage consumers outside the home environment.
Through an extensive network of assets in key metropolitan areas, OUTFRONT provides advertisers with premium visibility along highways, city streets and transit corridors.
This instant news alert was generated by narrative science technology and financial data from MarketBeat in order to provide readers with the fastest reporting and unbiased coverage. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected].
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NEW YORK, May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE: OUT) announced today that its Chief Executive Officer, Nick Brien, is scheduled to present at the J.P. Morgan 2026 Global Technology, Media and Communications Conference on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 2:15 p.m.
Landmark Transportation Icon Becomes Newest Crown Jewel In OUTFRONT's IRL Media Portfolio
First Campaign with LASEC Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026™
, /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media (NYSE: OUT), one of the largest and most-trusted IRL media companies in the U.S., today announced the launch of its inaugural advertising and experiential program at Los Angeles Union Station, one of the city's most recognizable destinations. This milestone marks the first time the landmark transportation hub has introduced a formal advertising program, with OUTFRONT selected to bring the vision to life - transforming the space into an immersive IRL media environment where extended dwell time and constant movement provide a rare combination of presence, context, and attention, delivering meaningful brand connections.
First Campaign with LASEC Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026™
First Campaign with LASEC Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026™
First Campaign with LASEC Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026™
Los Angeles Union Station has 14.8 million annual passenger activity/movements across Metrolink, Metro Rail, Amtrak, buses, and regional transit services, making it a premier addition to OUTFRONT's national transit portfolio. The new offering introduces high-impact interior, exterior, and full-station domination opportunities, enabling brands to engage audiences at scale. As part of this, large format digital networks will roll out throughout the traveler journey, offering flexibility and dynamic storytelling across key touchpoints within the station.
Union Station has also been designated an official Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zone during FIFA World Cup 2026™ and will stream matches live across its digital displays, creating a high-energy environment where brands can show up alongside one of the world's most anticipated global events.
"Union Station is a cultural and architectural centerpiece of Los Angeles," said Michael Wells, SVP, Asset Development & Brand Integration, OUTFRONT. "We're honored to launch its first IRL advertising and experiential program- creating a space where brands can build trust, capture attention, and connect with millions in authentic, real-world moments that resonate far beyond the station."
"The FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Los Angeles to welcome the world, and Union Station will serve as one of the region's most visible and important gateways for fans traveling throughout the region," said Kathryn Schloessman, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission and CEO, Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee. "From Union Station to neighborhoods across the region, the welcome decor and branding will help create an exciting atmosphere that reflects the energy, diversity, and global spirit of Los Angeles."
"We are thrilled to introduce OUTFRONT's out-of-home media and sponsorship opportunities to this historic Los Angeles landmark for the first time in its 87-year history," said Jefferson Brown, Vice President & General Manager of Los Angeles Union Station. "We believe media and advertising help iconic destinations stay relevant, strengthen consumer connectivity, and engage new generations of passengers, making FIFA World Cup 2026 the perfect moment to launch this new chapter for Union Station."
The Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission (LASEC), who serves as the lead for the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee, is the first advertiser to debut at the station, bringing a bold and colorful campaign celebrating FIFA World Cup 2026™, which will take place in Los Angeles from June 11 through July 19, 2026. The campaign has now begun to roll out, transforming high–impact placements throughout Union Station into a vibrant welcome for residents and visitors alike as the region prepares to host the wildly popular sporting event.
CLICK FOR IMAGES
(Source: Union Station transit agency ridership data, FY25 passenger activity totals).
Website references and third-party hyperlinks included in this press release have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites and hyperlinks is not incorporated by reference into this press release.
About OUTFRONT Media Inc.
OUTFRONT is one of the largest and most trusted out-of-home media companies in the U.S., helping brands connect with audiences in the moments and environments that matter most. As OUTFRONT evolves, it's defining a new era of in-real-life (IRL) marketing, turning public spaces into platforms for creativity, connection, and cultural relevance. With a nationwide footprint across billboards, digital displays, transit systems, and other out-of-home formats, OUTFRONT turns creative into powerful real-world experiences. Its in-house agency, OUTFRONT STUDIOS, and award-winning innovation team, XLabs, deliver standout storytelling, supported by advanced technology and data tools that can drive measurable impact.
About Los Angeles Union Station Since its opening in 1939, Los Angeles Union Station has long been considered one of LA's architectural gems and a vital portal to the promise of the California Dream. The station was designed with an innovative blend of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture now commonly referred to as Mission Moderne. The bustling 52-acre transportation hub sits in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles offering essential connections to destinations throughout Southern California. An iconic landmark, the station serves as a vibrant symbol of Downtown connecting the historic fabric of the past to the present through arts, culture, transit and community. Conceived on a grand scale, Los Angeles Union Station is the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States and is often regarded as "the last of the great train stations." For more information, visit unionstationla.com or follow @unionstationla on social media.
OUTFRONT Media Contacts:
Matt Biscuiti
The Lippin Group
212-986-7080
[email protected]
Courtney Richards
OUTFRONT Media
646-876-9404
[email protected]
Stephan Bisson
OUTFRONT Media
212-297-6573
[email protected]
Landmark Transportation Icon Becomes Newest Crown Jewel In OUTFRONT's IRL Media Portfolio
First Campaign with LASEC Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026™
, /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media (NYSE: OUT), one of the largest and most-trusted IRL media companies in the U.S., today announced the launch of its inaugural advertising and experiential program at Los Angeles Union Station, one of the city's most recognizable destinations. This milestone marks the first time the landmark transportation hub has introduced a formal advertising program, with OUTFRONT selected to bring the vision to life - transforming the space into an immersive IRL media environment where extended dwell time and constant movement provide a rare combination of presence, context, and attention, delivering meaningful brand connections.
Los Angeles Union Station has 14.8 million annual passenger activity/movements across Metrolink, Metro Rail, Amtrak, buses, and regional transit services, making it a premier addition to OUTFRONT's national transit portfolio. The new offering introduces high-impact interior, exterior, and full-station domination opportunities, enabling brands to engage audiences at scale. As part of this, large format digital networks will roll out throughout the traveler journey, offering flexibility and dynamic storytelling across key touchpoints within the station.
Union Station has also been designated an official Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zone during FIFA World Cup 2026™ and will stream matches live across its digital displays, creating a high-energy environment where brands can show up alongside one of the world's most anticipated global events.
"Union Station is a cultural and architectural centerpiece of Los Angeles," said Michael Wells, SVP, Asset Development & Brand Integration, OUTFRONT. "We're honored to launch its first IRL advertising and experiential program- creating a space where brands can build trust, capture attention, and connect with millions in authentic, real-world moments that resonate far beyond the station."
"The FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Los Angeles to welcome the world, and Union Station will serve as one of the region's most visible and important gateways for fans traveling throughout the region," said Kathryn Schloessman, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission and CEO, Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee. "From Union Station to neighborhoods across the region, the welcome decor and branding will help create an exciting atmosphere that reflects the energy, diversity, and global spirit of Los Angeles."
"We are thrilled to introduce OUTFRONT's out-of-home media and sponsorship opportunities to this historic Los Angeles landmark for the first time in its 87-year history," said Jefferson Brown, Vice President & General Manager of Los Angeles Union Station. "We believe media and advertising help iconic destinations stay relevant, strengthen consumer connectivity, and engage new generations of passengers, making FIFA World Cup 2026 the perfect moment to launch this new chapter for Union Station."
The Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission (LASEC), who serves as the lead for the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee, is the first advertiser to debut at the station, bringing a bold and colorful campaign celebrating FIFA World Cup 2026™, which will take place in Los Angeles from June 11 through July 19, 2026. The campaign has now begun to roll out, transforming high–impact placements throughout Union Station into a vibrant welcome for residents and visitors alike as the region prepares to host the wildly popular sporting event.
CLICK FOR IMAGES
(Source: Union Station transit agency ridership data, FY25 passenger activity totals).
Website references and third-party hyperlinks included in this press release have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites and hyperlinks is not incorporated by reference into this press release.
About OUTFRONT Media Inc.
OUTFRONT is one of the largest and most trusted out-of-home media companies in the U.S., helping brands connect with audiences in the moments and environments that matter most. As OUTFRONT evolves, it's defining a new era of in-real-life (IRL) marketing, turning public spaces into platforms for creativity, connection, and cultural relevance. With a nationwide footprint across billboards, digital displays, transit systems, and other out-of-home formats, OUTFRONT turns creative into powerful real-world experiences. Its in-house agency, OUTFRONT STUDIOS, and award-winning innovation team, XLabs, deliver standout storytelling, supported by advanced technology and data tools that can drive measurable impact.
About Los Angeles Union Station Since its opening in 1939, Los Angeles Union Station has long been considered one of LA's architectural gems and a vital portal to the promise of the California Dream. The station was designed with an innovative blend of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture now commonly referred to as Mission Moderne. The bustling 52-acre transportation hub sits in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles offering essential connections to destinations throughout Southern California. An iconic landmark, the station serves as a vibrant symbol of Downtown connecting the historic fabric of the past to the present through arts, culture, transit and community. Conceived on a grand scale, Los Angeles Union Station is the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States and is often regarded as "the last of the great train stations." For more information, visit unionstationla.com or follow @unionstationla on social media.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/outfront-launches-inaugural-advertising--experiential-program-at-historic-los-angeles-union-station-302779224.html
Key Takeaways OUT launched its advertising and experiential program at Los Angeles Union Station.Large-format digital networks at key touchpoints expand premium transit ad inventory for OUT.World Cup 26 Fan Zone status may boost brand visibility, occupancy and pricing power for OUT. OUTFRONT Media (OUT - Free Report) recently launched its inaugural advertising and experiential program at Los Angeles Union Station, creating an in-real-life media environment for brands. The move adds a marquee transit destination to OUTFRONT’s portfolio and expands its presence in premium out-of-home advertising.
Los Angeles Union Station, with a target audience averaging 14.8 million, strengthens OUTFRONT’s national transit advertising footprint. The addition of large-format digital networks across key touchpoints increases premium inventory and creates more opportunities for advertisers to deliver impactful campaigns.
The station’s role as an official Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zone further enhances its advertising appeal. Live FIFA World Cup 2026 match streaming across digital displays is likely to attract brands seeking heightened visibility during a globally watched sporting event, potentially driving incremental ad spending.
Overall, the development is expected to support higher occupancy rates for OUTFRONT’s digital transit assets, improve pricing power for premium ad placements and reinforce the company’s position in experiential and out-of-home advertising, creating a positive revenue growth opportunity.
Over the past three months, shares of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company have gained 28.3% compared with the industry's growth of 3.2%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks from the broader REIT sector are American Tower (AMT - Free Report) and Cousins Properties (CUZ - Free Report) , carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AMT’s 2026 FFO per share is pegged at $10.95, which indicates year-over-year growth of 1.8%.
The consensus estimate for CUZ’s full-year FFO per share is pinned at $2.93, which calls for a 3.2% increase from the year-ago period.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO) — a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
Growth stocks are attractive to many investors, as above-average financial growth helps these stocks easily grab the market's attention and produce exceptional returns. However, it isn't easy to find a great growth stock.
That's because, these stocks usually carry above-average risk and volatility. In fact, betting on a stock for which the growth story is actually over or nearing its end could lead to significant loss.
However, the task of finding cutting-edge growth stocks is made easy with the help of the Zacks Growth Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which looks beyond the traditional growth attributes to analyze a company's real growth prospects.
Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) is one such stock that our proprietary system currently recommends. The company not only has a favorable Growth Score, but also carries a top Zacks Rank.
Research shows that stocks carrying the best growth features consistently beat the market. And for stocks that have a combination of a Growth Score of A or B and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy), returns are even better.
Here are three of the most important factors that make the stock of this billboard, transit and digital display advertising company a great growth pick right now.
Earnings GrowthEarnings growth is arguably the most important factor, as stocks exhibiting exceptionally surging profit levels tend to attract the attention of most investors. And for growth investors, double-digit earnings growth is definitely preferable, and often an indication of strong prospects (and stock price gains) for the company under consideration.
While the historical EPS growth rate for Outfront Media is 12%, investors should actually focus on the projected growth. The company's EPS is expected to grow 12.3% this year, crushing the industry average, which calls for EPS growth of 3.1%.
Impressive Asset Utilization RatioAsset utilization ratio -- also known as sales-to-total-assets (S/TA) ratio -- is often overlooked by investors, but it is an important indicator in growth investing. This metric shows how efficiently a firm is utilizing its assets to generate sales.
Right now, Outfront Media has an S/TA ratio of 0.36, which means that the company gets $0.36 in sales for each dollar in assets. Comparing this to the industry average of 0.13, it can be said that the company is more efficient.
In addition to efficiency in generating sales, sales growth plays an important role. And Outfront Media looks attractive from a sales growth perspective as well. The company's sales are expected to grow 7.4% this year versus the industry average of 2.1%.
Promising Earnings Estimate RevisionsSuperiority of a stock in terms of the metrics outlined above can be further validated by looking at the trend in earnings estimate revisions. A positive trend is of course favorable here. Empirical research shows that there is a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
The current-year earnings estimates for Outfront Media have been revising upward. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has surged 1.6% over the past month.
Bottom LineOutfront Media has not only earned a Growth Score of B based on a number of factors, including the ones discussed above, but it also carries a Zacks Rank #2 because of the positive earnings estimate revisions.
You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
This combination indicates that Outfront Media is a potential outperformer and a solid choice for growth investors.
Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreWhile good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.
Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.7% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
With more than 800 top-rated stocks to choose from, it can certainly feel overwhelming to pick the ones that are right for you and your investing journey.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) Headquartered in New York, OUTFRONT Media Inc. is a leading provider of OOH advertisement space in key markets throughout the United States. With billboard and transit displays, the company provides advertising structures and sites to diverse industries across the largest markets in the United States. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company had approximately 19,100 lease agreements with approximately 17,500 different landlords.
OUT is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Momentum investors should take note of this Finance stock. OUT has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 1.2% over the past four weeks.
For fiscal 2026, three analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.04 to $2.26 per share. OUT boasts an average earnings surprise of +12.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, OUT should be on investors' short list.
, /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE: OUT) today announced that two of its wholly-owned subsidiaries priced a private offering of $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.000% Senior Notes due 2034 (the "notes"). The notes will be sold at an issue price of 100.0% of the principal amount. The offering is expected to close on June 12, 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
OUTFRONT Media intends to use the net proceeds from the notes offering, along with borrowings under its accounts receivable securitization facility and cash on hand, to redeem all of its outstanding 5.000% Senior Notes due 2027 (the "2027 notes") and to pay accrued and unpaid interest on the 2027 notes, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date, and to pay fees and expenses in connection with the notes offering and the 2027 notes redemption.
The notes will be guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by OUTFRONT Media Inc. and each of its direct and indirect subsidiaries that guarantees its senior credit facilities.
The notes were offered and will be sold in a private placement to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and to non-U.S. persons in transactions outside the United States pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act. The notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the notes, nor shall there be any sale of the notes in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. This press release does not constitute a notice of redemption with respect to the 2027 notes.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
OUTFRONT Media Inc. ("we" or "our") has made statements in this press release that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "will," "intends," or "expects," or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases that are predictions of or indicate future events or trends and that do not relate solely to historical matters. You can also identify forward-looking statements by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions related to our capital resources, portfolio performance and results of operations. Forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, and you should not rely on them as predictions of future events. Forward-looking statements depend on assumptions, data or methods that may be incorrect or imprecise and may not be able to be realized. We do not guarantee that the transactions and events described will happen as described (or that they will happen at all). The following factors, among others, could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those set forth or contemplated in the forward-looking statements: our ability to consummate the notes offering and the 2027 notes redemption; declines in advertising and general economic conditions; competition; government regulation; our ability to operate our digital display platform; losses and costs resulting from recalls and product liability, warranty and intellectual property claims; our ability to obtain and renew key municipal contracts on favorable terms; taxes, fees and registration requirements; decreased government compensation for the removal of lawful billboards; content-based restrictions on outdoor advertising; seasonal variations; acquisitions and other strategic transactions that we may pursue could have a negative effect on our results of operations; dependence on our management team and other key employees; experiencing a cybersecurity incident; changes in regulations and consumer concerns regarding privacy, information security and data, or any failure or perceived failure to comply with these regulations or our internal policies; asset impairment charges for our long-lived assets and goodwill; environmental, health and safety laws and regulations; expectations relating to environmental, social and governance considerations; our substantial indebtedness; restrictions in the agreements governing our indebtedness; incurrence of additional debt; interest rate risk exposure from our variable-rate indebtedness; our ability to generate cash to service our indebtedness; cash available for distributions; hedging transactions; the ability of our board of directors to cause us to issue additional shares of stock without common stockholder approval; certain provisions of Maryland law may limit the ability of a third party to acquire control of us; our rights and the rights of our stockholders to take action against our directors and officers are limited; our failure to remain qualified to be taxed as a real estate investment trust ("REIT"); REIT distribution requirements; availability of external sources of capital; we may face other tax liabilities even if we remain qualified to be taxed as a REIT; complying with REIT requirements may cause us to liquidate investments or forgo otherwise attractive investments or business opportunities; our ability to contribute certain contracts to a taxable REIT subsidiary ("TRS"); our planned use of TRSs may cause us to fail to remain qualified to be taxed as a REIT; REIT ownership limits; complying with REIT requirements may limit our ability to hedge effectively; the ability of our board of directors to revoke our REIT election at any time without stockholder approval; the Internal Revenue Service may deem the gains from sales of our outdoor advertising assets to be subject to a 100% prohibited transaction tax; establishing operating partnerships as part of our REIT structure; and other factors described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), including but not limited to the section entitled "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on February 26, 2026. All forward-looking statements in this press release apply as of the date of this press release or as of the date they were made and, except as required by applicable law, we disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, of new information, data or methods, future events, or other changes.
About OUTFRONT Media Inc.
OUTFRONT is one of the largest and most trusted out-of-home media companies in the U.S., helping brands connect with audiences in the moments and environments that matter most. As OUTFRONT evolves, it's defining a new era of in-real-life (IRL) marketing, turning public spaces into platforms for creativity, connection, and cultural relevance. With a nationwide footprint across billboards, digital displays, transit systems, and other out-of-home formats, OUTFRONT turns creative into powerful real-world experiences. Its in-house agency, OUTFRONT STUDIOS, and award-winning innovation team, XLabs, deliver standout storytelling, supported by advanced technology and data tools that can drive measurable impact.
Key Takeaways OUT jumped around 30% YTD with Q1 revenues rising 10% to $429.6M and adjusted OIBDA surging 56%.OUTFRONT Media's transit revenues grew 22.3%, led by 26% growth in its New York MTA business.OUTFRONT Media digital revenues grew 11% ; automated sales hit 20% of digital, up from 16%. OUTFRONT Media (OUT - Free Report) shares have rallied about 30% year to date, outperforming the industry’s growth of 11.2%, a strong move that reflects better investor confidence in the company’s recovery story.
The gain follows a solid first-quarter report, where revenues rose 10% year over year to $429.6 million and adjusted OIBDA jumped 56% to $100.4 million. The market also responded well to a sharp improvement in AFFO, which more than doubled to $61 million, suggesting that the company’s operating leverage is starting to show up in cash flow.
OUTFRONT is one of the largest out-of-home advertising companies in the United States, with assets across billboards, digital displays, transit media and experiential advertising. Its performance is closely tied to ad spending, city traffic and the shift toward digital outdoor media. The broader industry is benefiting from advertisers looking for real-world visibility at a time when digital ad channels are crowded and harder to measure.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Factors Behind OUT Stock Price Rise: Will This Trend Continue?A key reason for the stock’s rise is the rebound in transit advertising. Transit revenues increased 22.3% in the first quarter, led by more than 26% growth in the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority ("MTA") business. That is important because the MTA is OUTFRONT’s largest transit franchise and has been a major swing factor for the company. Management also said it now expects 2026 MTA revenues to exceed the baseline revenue level, which could support better cash generation.
Billboards also helped the quarter, though the picture is more mixed. Billboard revenues rose 7.1%, while digital billboard revenues increased 6.1%. Management noted that excluding certain items, including condemnation revenue and the exit of a large Los Angeles contract, digital billboard revenues would have been up more than 10%. That points to healthy demand for digital inventory, even if some reported growth had one-time support.
Digital remains another important driver. Total digital revenues grew more than 11% and represented about one-third of total revenues. Programmatic and digital direct automated sales increased nearly 40%, reaching 20% of total digital revenues, up from 16% a year earlier. This suggests OUTFRONT is making progress in selling outdoor media in ways that are more familiar to digital ad buyers.
The company also has some event-driven opportunities. Management expects second-quarter revenue growth of more than 10%, supported by roughly 30% growth in transit and mid-single-digit growth in billboard. The World Cup is expected to help demand in June and July, especially in major cities where OUTFRONT has a strong presence. Its new advertising and experiential program at Los Angeles Union Station also gives the company another platform to sell high-traffic, real-world brand activations.
Still, the rally may not be easy to extend. Some first-quarter benefits, including $13.5 million of billboard condemnation revenues, are not recurring in nature. OUTFRONT also remains exposed to advertising cycles, lease costs and leverage. Net leverage improved to 4.3 times at the end of the quarter, within management’s target range of 4-5 times, but it is still a factor investors will watch closely.
View on OUT StockOUTFRONT’s 30% YTD gain is supported by stronger transit trends, improving digital sales and better cash flow. The company also has near-term tailwinds from major events and better demand in key markets. However, after such a sharp move, the stock already reflects a good part of that improvement. A neutral stance looks reasonable for now, as investors may want to see whether the stronger growth trend can continue without help from one-time items.
Currently, OUT carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks from the broader REIT sector are Prologis, Inc. (PLD - Free Report) and Lamar Advertising (LAMR - Free Report) , each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Prologis’ 2026 FFO per share suggests a 6.37% increase year over year.
The consensus mark for Lamar Advertising’s 2026 FFO per share has been revised 2.2% upward to $8.81 over the past month.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO), a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
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Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.
The research service features daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, all of which will help you become a smarter, more confident investor.
Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFinding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value, are what value investors like to focus on. So, the Value Style Score takes into account ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to highlight the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.7% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.
For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Outfront Media (OUT - Free Report) Headquartered in New York, OUTFRONT Media Inc. is a leading provider of OOH advertisement space in key markets throughout the United States. With billboard and transit displays, the company provides advertising structures and sites to diverse industries across the largest markets in the United States. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company had approximately 19,100 lease agreements with approximately 17,500 different landlords.
OUT is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of B thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 13.56; value investors should take notice.
Three analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.04 to $2.26 per share. OUT boasts an average earnings surprise of +12.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, OUT should be on investors' short list.
OUTFRONT Media remains a compelling 'Buy,' driven by robust billboard and transit advertising demand. OUT's digital transformation is accelerating, with programmatic and automated sales now 20% of revenue, boosting margins and supporting faster AFFO growth. Management guides for mid-teens AFFO growth in 2026, aided by strong transit momentum, digital adoption, and FIFA World Cup advertising tailwinds.
Key Takeaways Lamar posted Q1 2026 net revenues 4.5% to $528M, with growth across OOH formats.OUT saw Q1 revenues 10% and adjusted OIBDA 56%, fueled by a 22% jump in transit revenue.Lamar carries 3x net debt/EBITDA, $700M liquidity and 2026 programmatic revenues up nearly 25%. Out-of-home advertising is having a useful moment for investors to revisit. Brands are still fighting for attention in crowded digital channels, while billboards, transit displays and airport media keep showing up in the real world where people cannot scroll past them.
Lamar Advertising (LAMR - Free Report) and OUTFRONT Media (OUT - Free Report) both sit in this market, but they bring different strengths to the table. Lamar is the steadier operator, with a larger revenue base, strong billboard exposure and a long record of local advertiser demand.
OUTFRONT is more of a recovery story, helped by faster recent growth in transit, digital and large urban markets. The latest quarterly results show both companies moving in the right direction, though in different ways. For investors, the choice comes down to whether they prefer Lamar’s consistency and financial flexibility or OUTFRONT’s sharper rebound and improving transit platform.
The Case for LAMRLamar’s first appeal is its dependable top-line engine. First-quarter 2026 net revenues rose 4.5% to $528 million, with growth across billboards, airports, transit and logo signs. It came from a larger base and showed healthy demand from both local and national advertisers. Management also noted that local and regional billboard sales have now grown for 20 straight quarters, a useful sign of repeat demand.
The company also has a strong profitability profile. Adjusted EBITDA increased 7.7% to $226.3 million, and the margin expanded to 42.9%. OUTFRONT’s rebound was sharper in the quarter, but Lamar still operates with a much higher earnings margin, helped by its heavy billboard mix and disciplined expense control. That efficiency makes each dollar of revenues more valuable.
Lamar’s balance sheet gives it another edge. Management reported net debt-to-EBITDA of about 3X, total liquidity of more than $700 million and no senior notes maturity until 2028. OUTFRONT’s net leverage is higher at 4.3X, so Lamar has more room to invest, pursue deals and support shareholder returns through different market conditions.
Growth is not missing either. Programmatic revenues grew nearly 25% in the quarter, same-board digital revenues increased 5%, and digital represented almost 31% of billboard billings. Lamar also completed 19 acquisitions for about $80 million so far in 2026 and continues to target accretive billboard deals and easements under its best locations. That mix of organic growth, digital expansion and bolt-on acquisitions keeps the story simple and attractive to investors today.
The Case for OUTOUTFRONT’s case begins with momentum. First-quarter 2026 revenues rose 10% to $429.6 million, while adjusted OIBDA climbed 56.4% to $100.4 million. AFFO more than doubled to $61 million. Those numbers show a business moving past a weaker period and getting better operating lift from its assets. Compared with Lamar’s steadier pace, OUTFRONT offers a more visible recovery story.
Transit is the clearest improvement. Revenues in that segment rose 22.3%, led by strength in the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (“MTA”) contract, which management said grew more than 26%. Digital transit revenues also rose strongly. If the MTA business stays above its baseline revenue level, OUTFRONT can begin recouping prior screen investments, improving cash dynamics over time. This could make the platform more productive.
OUTFRONT also has a good digital growth story. Total digital revenues grew more than 11% and made up about one-third of total revenues. Programmatic and automated digital sales rose nearly 40%, showing better traction with buyers who want data, flexibility and measurable campaigns. Its big-city footprint could also benefit from events, tourism and tech advertiser demand, which gives OUTFRONT real upside if demand keeps building.
The downside is that OUTFRONT still carries more execution risk than Lamar. Transit improved sharply, but it still posted a small adjusted OIBDA loss in the quarter. Leverage was 4.3X, above Lamar’s level, and some of its first-quarter strength included billboard condemnation revenues. Its exit from a large Los Angeles billboard contract also creates some moving parts in year-over-year comparisons. Investors still need proof that progress can last longer. The turnaround is promising, but it is not yet as clean or as steady as Lamar’s model.
How Do Estimates Compare for LAMR & OUT?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Lamar’s 2026 and 2027 sales implies year-over-year growth of 5.02% and 4.22%, respectively. The consensus mark for 2026 and 2027 funds from operations (FFO) per share has been revised meaningfully higher to $8.81 and $9.40, respectively, over the past two months, suggesting year-over-year growth of 6.66% and 6.75%, respectively.
Estimates for Lamar Advertising:
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for OUTFRONT Media’s 2026 and 2027 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 8.09% and 1.49%, respectively. The consensus mark for 2026 and 2027 FFO per share has been revised upward over the past two months to $2.26 and $2.30, respectively. The figure suggests year-over-year increases of 13.57% and 1.99%, respectively.
Estimates for OUTFRONT Media:
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Price Performance & Valuation of LAMR & OUTSo far in the quarter, Lamar shares have rallied 19%, and OUTFRONT Media stock has gained 14.5%. In comparison, the Zacks REIT and Equity Trust – Other industry has risen 11.4%, whereas the S&P 500 composite has returned 12% in the same time frame.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
LAMR is trading at a forward 12-month price-to-FFO, which is a commonly used multiple for valuing REITs, of 16.62X, which is above its one-year median of 15.40X.
OUT is presently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-FFO of 13.34X, which is also above its one-year median of 12.08X. While OUT has a Value Score of B, LAMR has a Value Score of C.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Conclusion: LAMR Has the EdgeOUTFRONT deserves credit for a much better quarter. Its transit recovery, digital push and stronger urban demand give investors a real reason to keep watching the name. Still, Lamar looks like the better stock to consider. It has a larger and steadier revenue base, stronger margins, lower leverage and more room to keep acquiring assets while supporting its dividend policy.
Lamar’s growth may look less dramatic than OUTFRONT’s rebound, but it comes with fewer moving parts and a more proven model. For investors seeking exposure to OOH advertising REITs, Lamar offers the cleaner and more dependable choice in this matchup. Estimate revisions also point in the same direction.
LAMR carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), whereas OUT has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO) — a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.