Extra Space Storage Inc. (EXR): A Bull Case Theory

We came across a bullish thesis on Extra Space Storage Inc. on Wide Moat Research’s YouTube Channel. In this article, we will summarize the bulls’ thesis on EXR. Extra Space Storage Inc.'s share was trading at $140.50 as of January 13th. EXR’s trailing and forward P/E were 31.43 and 28.90, respectively according to Yahoo Finance.

Extra Space Storage (EXR) is presented as a compelling REIT investment opportunity against the backdrop of a deeply out-of-favor sector that historically performs exceptionally well when interest rates decline. Over the past 15 years, REITs have repeatedly emerged as the top-performing asset class during periods of accommodative monetary policy, particularly in the years following the Great Recession.

Historically, their recent underperformance is largely attributed to aggressive Federal Reserve rate hikes that raised the cost of capital and pressured valuations, rather than any deterioration in underlying business fundamentals. Despite prevailing investor pessimism, many REITs have continued to grow cash flows, maintain strong balance sheets, and support dividends, creating a disconnect between fundamentals and share prices.

This dislocation has pushed valuations to unusually attractive levels, setting the stage for a meaningful rebound as interest rate cuts act as a powerful catalyst, with 2026 expected to be a particularly strong year for the asset class.

Within this context, Extra Space Storage stands out as a high-quality, valuation-driven opportunity. As the largest player in the highly fragmented self-storage industry, EXR benefits from significant consolidation potential, a strong technology platform that enhances pricing and customer retention, and an omni-channel approach to demand generation.

The company maintains high occupancy levels, conservative leverage, and investment-grade credit ratings, enabling it to steadily raise guidance and protect cash flows. While near-term growth remains modest, shares trade well below historical valuation multiples and offer an attractive, well-covered dividend yield.

Taken together, EXR combines durable fundamentals with compelling valuation upside, positioning it as a standout REIT poised to benefit disproportionately as macro conditions normalize.

Previously, we covered a bullish thesis on STAG Industrial, Inc. (STAG) by Steve Wagner in May 2025, which highlighted the company’s strong industrial platform, robust leasing spreads, disciplined capital recycling, and consistent FFO growth. STAG's stock price has appreciated by approximately 13.78% since our coverage. This is because STAG’s execution and capital strategy reinforced investor confidence. Wide Moat Research shares a similar bullish view on EXR, emphasizing the high-quality, valuation-driven opportunity and macro based benefits that makes it a standout stock.

Extra Space Storage Inc. is not on our list of the 30 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 33 hedge fund portfolios held EXR at the end of the third quarter which was 36 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of EXR 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.

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Disclosure: None.