Benchmark has reaffirmed its Buy rating on Take-Two Interactive and left its price target at $300.00 after the video-game publisher delivered results that Benchmark characterized as a "decisive Q3 beat." The firm raised its fiscal 2026 guidance, with Net Bookings guidance implying a midpoint of $6.7 billion, a level Benchmark says surpasses consensus expectations.
Take-Two's shares traded at $204.72 and have declined 12.75% over the last week, according to InvestingPro data. Benchmark's $300 target implies nearly 47% upside from that price, a projection that is modestly higher than the average analyst upside of roughly 41%.
Benchmark highlighted several operational points behind its stance. The firm noted that management reiterated expectations for record Net Bookings in fiscal 2027, and framed that outlook as the start of a "structurally higher earnings baseline rather than a one-time peak." Benchmark specifically cited three pillars supporting that view: the launch of Grand Theft Auto VI, the evolution of GTA Online, and continued strength in NBA 2K and mobile.
On product timing, Take-Two confirmed that marketing for Grand Theft Auto VI will begin in summer 2026, potentially aligning with the next major trailer ahead of the game's November 19, 2026 launch date. Benchmark views that promotional cadence, together with in-game monetization, as important contributors to Net Bookings and long-term profitability.
Operational metrics from Take-Two's fiscal third quarter were strong. The company reported net bookings of $1.76 billion, above the consensus estimate of $1.58 billion. Recurrent consumer spending rose 23% year-over-year, reflecting elevated ongoing engagement with the company's live services and in-game purchases. Benchmark said record Q3 performance in the direct-to-consumer channel reinforces that unit's role as a growth and margin catalyst.
Despite a reported loss over the last twelve months, InvestingPro data cited in Benchmark's note shows analysts expect Take-Two to be profitable this fiscal year, with consensus EPS forecasts of $3.78.
Other analysts have reacted positively to the quarter, with a number of firms adjusting price targets and ratings. BMO Capital lifted its price target to $280, citing operating income that was roughly 50% higher than expected. TD Cowen and DA Davidson both reiterated Buy ratings, with price targets of $284 and $300, respectively, pointing to strong mobile game and NBA 2K performance. Oppenheimer maintained an Outperform rating and a $265 price target, noting broad-based strength across key franchises. Goldman Sachs, while keeping a Buy rating, lowered its price target to $270 even after Take-Two raised its full-year 2026 guidance.
Benchmark additionally underscored the strategic importance of Take-Two's direct-to-consumer business. The firm described the channel as a meaningful driver of Net Bookings, profitability, and long-term earnings durability, and cited the Q3 record as evidence of that dynamic.
In sum, Benchmark's reiteration rests on a combination of the company's recent financial outperformance, updated guidance that lifts the fiscal 2026 Net Bookings midpoint, and an anticipated marketing ramp for GTA VI beginning in summer 2026. The firm is treating the period around the GTA VI launch and the ongoing monetization of existing franchises as the basis for a higher earnings baseline going forward.