Core Viewpoint - Choice Hotels International, Inc. (CHH) is experiencing growth driven by steady unit expansion, a strong global pipeline, and rising demand across its portfolio, although concerns about the macroeconomic environment persist [1] Growth Catalysts for CHH Stock - Solid business travel demand is evident, with business travel accounting for approximately 40% of total revenues in 2024 and a 14% growth in the business transient segment in Q4 [2] - Continued strength in business travel is expected for 2025, supported by higher group bookings and sustained demand in the business transient segment [3] - The company is effectively executing its unit growth strategy, focusing on both domestic and international expansion [3] Development and Pipeline - In 2024, CHH achieved a 36% year-over-year increase in domestic upscale franchise agreements awarded, with a global pipeline of 964 hotels (approximately 97,325 rooms) as of December 31, 2024 [4] - About 88% of the pipeline is located in the United States, with nearly 71% dedicated to new construction projects [4] Strengthening Rewards and Partnerships - The rewards program grew to 69 million members in 2024, reflecting an 8% year-over-year increase, marking the highest organic enrollment in a year [6] - Strategic partnerships, including a collaboration with Westgate Resorts, added over 14,000 rooms to the domestic portfolio, enhancing offerings [6] Concerns for Choice Hotels Stock - Despite outperforming the Zacks Hotels and Motels industry year-to-date, CHH stock has declined by 12%, while the industry saw a drop of 16.8%, primarily due to market volatility and discretionary spending concerns [10] - Uncertain financial conditions, rising interest rates, and intense competition are additional challenges facing the company [11]