Wedbush ups its outlook for movie theater sales

Wedbush Securities reported third-quarter North American ticket sales up 28% from a year earlier and raised its 2026 box office forecast, citing a normalized release schedule and premium formats. AMC shares rose after the chain beat earnings expectations.

By Standard Topic. AI-generated from the reporting listed under Coverage. Published October 13, 2026. Updated October 15, 2026.

This story is no longer being updated. It reflects reporting up to October 14, 2026.

What happened

Wedbush Securities said third-quarter North American ticket sales rose 28% year-on-year, lifting its revenue expectations for AMC Entertainment, Cinemark and Marcus. On October 14, it raised its 2026 North American box office forecast and projected continued recovery in the movie theater industry. The firm cited a normalized film release schedule, a solid 2027 film slate, and premium formats with higher spending.

Why it matters

Wedbush says premium formats and higher spending will boost theater cash flow. AMC shares climbed after the chain posted a strong earnings beat.

Timeline

Oct 13, 12:48 PM ET: Wedbush said third-quarter ticket sales rose 28%, lifting revenue expectations for AMC, Cinemark and Marcus.
Oct 13, 6:19 PM ET: AMC Entertainment shares climbed after a strong earnings beat, with mixed research views on the stock.
Oct 14, 1:05 PM ET: Wedbush raised its 2026 North American box office forecast, pointing to a solid 2027 film slate.

Coverage

Wedbush Raises 2026 North American Box Office Forecast Amid AMC Entertainment Optimism (AMC) (gurufocus.com) October 14, 2026
Wedbush lifts 2026 North American box office forecast, points to solid 2027 film slate (seekingalpha.com) October 14, 2026
Is AMC Entertainment (NYSE:AMC) Ready For A Box Office Comeback? (kalkinemedia.com) October 13, 2026

Wedbush ups its outlook for movie theater sales

What happened

Why it matters

Timeline

Coverage

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