American Eagle Outfitters Upgraded To Buy Vs Hold At Stifel

American Eagle Outfitters Inc. shares rose 1.5% in premarket trade Thursday, after Stifel Research upgraded the stock to buy from hold, following better-than-expected fourth-quarter profit and sales and an upbeat outlook for the current quarter. "Our outlook regarding AEO shares has grown more favorable," analysts wrote in a note. "Thus far in 1Q, sales trends have accelerated as customers are responding favorably to the company's spring floorset. We believe the momentum of AEO's merchandise turnaround is strong and sustainable." Shares have climbed 34% in the last three months, outperforming the S&P 500's 1.1% gain.