Stock price when the opinion was issued
SVI operates in a structure relatively similar to a REIT but is much more growth-focussed. It needs to utilize debt in order to be able to grow its portfolio of assets which it rents out. It has also grown primarily via acquisition. The rising rate environment has created cost pressures, however we do think the outlook is positive. As Canada has already begun cutting rates, we think SVI stands to benefit from lower interest expenses (bottom-line expansion) and being able to isse more debt to finance growth (top line expansion). The industry is capital intensive so while high debt is a risk, it is somewhat unavoidable. We like the outlook for SVI.
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Both sides of the border, self-storage is in a more difficult operating environment. Less needed with less housing activity, so pricing power is elusive. Income growth has fallen, more expenses. Getting interesting at these levels. If you own, you could hold and hope for a recovery in 2025.
(Analysts’ price target is $5.50)A more bullish outlook on housing would be a catalyst.