Benchmark Stays Positive on Cinemark (CNK) Amid Strong Release Slate

Cinemark Holdings Inc. (NYSE:CNK) is one of the best high-beta stocks to buy now. On August 26, Benchmark Co. analyst Mike Hickey reiterated a Buy rating on Cinemark with an unchanged price target of $35. The reaffirmation followed a weaker Q3 performance, which was attributed to a softer September film slate rather than structural concerns.

Hickey emphasized that the outlook is much better for Q4, and is supported by a strong release schedule featuring titles such as Avatar: Fire and Ash and Tron: Ares. These films are expected to drive higher box office receipts and reinforce Cinemark Holdings Inc.’s (NYSE:CNK) market position.

Looking further ahead, he noted that 2026 is shaping up as a particularly strong year for the industry, with major franchise installments and original releases that could push attendance above pre-pandemic levels.

The analyst also notes that Cinemark Holdings Inc. (NYSE:CNK) has taken steps to address financial risks, including unwinding warrant overhangs that had weighed on its balance sheet. Combined with an improving film pipeline, these actions provide a multi-quarter opportunity for Cinemark to capture increased traffic and market share, underpinning Hickey’s maintained Buy rating.

Cinemark Holdings Inc. (NYSE:CNK) is one of the largest motion picture exhibitors in the United States and Latin America. The company operates hundreds of theaters and screens, offering premium formats like Cinemark XD and recliner seating.

While we acknowledge the potential of CNK as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you’re looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 12 Overlooked Large-Cap Stocks with Low Multiples and 10 Best Stocks for a 20 Year Long-Term Stock Portfolio.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.