Marriott International Stock Looks Good for Call Buyers

Marriott International Inc (NASDAQ:MAR) has added 27% year-to-date, and tacked on over 52% year-over-year. The stock recently broke out above a trendline connecting a series of lower highs dating back to its June 2 record high around $110, suggesting MAR is ready to embark on the next leg of its longer-term uptrend.

MAR's short interest increased by 15% during the last reporting period, and now represents almost seven times the stock's average daily trading volume. The unwinding of these bearish bets could provide serious tailwinds for the stock.

Analyst sentiment is bearish. Of the 15 brokerages covering MAR, only seven rate it a "buy" or "strong buy." A round of upgrades from the remaining holdouts could draw some additional buyers to the table.

Lastly, our recommendedcall has a leverage ratio of 7.9, and will double in value on a 12.1% rise in the underlying equity.

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