Mizuho said the investment outlook for Airbnb in 2026 is becoming more compelling, as the firm reiterated its Outperform rating and named the stock among its top picks for the year.
Analyst Lloyd Walmsley wrote that the “Airbnb story for 2026 is firming up,” pointing to several recent developments that are helping improve investor sentiment toward the company.
A key factor behind this more constructive view is Airbnb’s appointment of a new chief technology officer, Ahmad Al-Dahle. Walmsley highlighted comments from CEO Brian Chesky during a CNBC interview, where Chesky emphasized that the hire aligns with Airbnb’s long-term strategy.
According to Chesky, the CTO appointment is “central to Airbnb’s broader transformation beyond short-term rentals.” This view supports Mizuho’s thesis that artificial intelligence could enable Airbnb to integrate more hotel inventory and enhance its platform through AI-driven search and discovery tools.
Mizuho added that it now feels “more confident in Airbnb’s AI product” following the hire and has become increasingly optimistic about the company’s broader AI opportunity. The firm also cited improving investor sentiment, noting that it has been encouraged by a “modestly better reception” to its bullish case during recent meetings with clients.
Chesky’s commentary on the travel environment further reinforced Mizuho’s outlook. In his CNBC appearance, he described the travel backdrop as “very stable and incredibly resilient,” while also suggesting that AI adoption could help accelerate Airbnb’s growth trajectory.
The CEO added that artificial intelligence could also support margin expansion, explaining that fewer employees may be needed as AI tools become more capable and help scale the business more efficiently.
Looking ahead, Mizuho expects several near-term catalysts, including progress on book-now-pay-later offerings, increased traction in hotels, and guidance pointing to stable margins. The firm maintained its $156 price target on Airbnb, arguing that the stock’s valuation multiple could expand as confidence in the 2026 growth story continues to build.
