Restaurant Stock With Clear Path to Previous Records

Core Viewpoint - Brinker International Inc (NYSE:EAT) is experiencing a breakout above the $165-$168 range, indicating a strong buying opportunity as it approaches its all-time high of $192.22 from February 4 [1] Group 1: Stock Performance - The stock has shown a significant year-to-date gain of 31.4% and a remarkable 148.9% increase over the last 12 months, suggesting strong performance [3] - The equity is bouncing sharply off its 10-month moving average, indicating potential upward momentum [2] Group 2: Market Sentiment - Analysts are generally bearish on EAT, with 14 out of 18 firms rating it as "hold" or worse, suggesting potential for upgrades [3] - There is a high level of put open interest at the 170-strike, with a Schaeffer's put/call open interest ratio (SOIR) of 2.40, ranking in the 98th percentile of annual readings, indicating prevailing pessimism that could reverse [2] Group 3: Short Selling and Options - Brinker International stock is positioned for a potential short squeeze, with 11.9% of its available float sold short, many of which are currently underwater [3] - The recommended call option has a leverage ratio of 7.4, which could double with a 14.4% gain in the underlying security [3]