Carnival Corporation & plc (CCL) Delivers Record Results, Restores Dividend, and Gains Analyst Confidence Despite Industry Headwinds”

Group 1 - Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) is identified as one of the best cheap stocks to buy for 2026, with TD Cowen raising its price target from $35 to $38 while maintaining a Buy rating [1] - Despite near-term challenges in the cruise market, fundamental demand for cruises remains strong, and capacity trends are expected to be constructive through fiscal year 2029 [3] - Carnival reported record annual operating income of $4.5 billion for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2025, which is approximately 25% higher than FY2024 [4] Group 2 - The company achieved full-year revenues of $26.6 billion, net income of $2.8 billion, and adjusted net income of about $3.1 billion, all of which are new highs [5] - Adjusted EBITDA reached $7.2 billion, exceeding 2024 levels by more than $1 billion, prompting the board to reinstate a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share [5] - Management raised its earnings outlook, projecting adjusted net income of approximately $3.5 billion for the coming year, with return on invested capital expected to exceed 13.5% [5]