Benchmark Co. Reiterates 'Buy' Rating on Core Natural Resources, Inc. (CNR)

Core Natural Resources, Inc. (NYSE:CNR) is included in our list of the 11 Best Coal Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds.

Nathan Martin of Benchmark Co. reiterated his ‘Buy’ rating for Core Natural Resources, Inc. (NYSE:CNR) on August 5, 2025, pointing to the company’s solid second-quarter performance and strategic momentum. Despite higher idling costs at Leer South, the business reported adjusted EBITDA of $144 million, above both benchmark and consensus projections.

Additionally, Core Natural Resources, Inc. (NYSE:CNR) increased shareholder returns and synergy targets by repurchasing $82 million in stock and paying out approximately $200 million in dividends and buybacks in the first half, exceeding its free cash flow levels. Operational resiliency is further demonstrated by updated sales and cost projections, a trend bolstered by favorable federal royalty rates and growing U.S. demand.

Martin emphasized Core Natural Resources, Inc. (NYSE:CNR)’s ability to deliver consistent performance and create long-term value in a difficult coal market, with further benefits from blending synergies once export markets recover.

Producing and exporting thermal and metallurgical coal, Core Natural Resources, Inc. (NYSE:CNR) runs the CONSOL Marine Terminal and the Pennsylvania Mining Complex for both domestic and foreign markets. It is one of the Best Coal Stocks.

While we acknowledge the potential of CNR 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: 15 Stocks That Will Benefit From AI and 12 Best Quantum Computing Stocks to Buy According to Wall Street Analysts.

Disclosure: None.