RLJ Lodging Trust: The Deep-Value Thesis Has Played Out

Philip Wang 1.21K Followers Follow Summary RLJ Lodging Trust delivered strong Q2 2026 results, raising full-year guidance and extending robust operating momentum across its portfolio. RLJ now trades at a P/AFFO multiple of 8x, narrowing its discount to peers but limiting the deep-value thesis that previously justified a 'Buy' rating. Leverage remains elevated at 6.36x net debt/EBITDA, though refinancing has pushed maturities out to 2029, and liquidity stands at $1B. I downgrade RLJ to 'Hold' as the recent share price surge reduces upside, but the 5.22% dividend yield remains well-covered and attractive. Andrzej Rostek/iStock via Getty Images Introduction I last wrote about RLJ Lodging Trust ( RLJ ) back in May, after the company released its Q1 2026 earnings . In my article, I had a "Buy" rating on the company, with my main reasons This article was written by Philip Wang 1.21K Followers Follow Dividend-focused investor specializing in REITs. I write fundamental deep dives on REITs, emphasizing sustainable dividends, balance sheet strength, and catalysts. Follow me for cycle-aware, income-oriented REIT ideas with clear Buy/Hold/Sell calls. Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.