JefferiesLLC analyst BrianTanquilut raised their investment opinion of Brookdale Senior Living Inc. to "buy" from "hold,"and increased their price target to $16.50 from $14.

The analyst wrote in a research report: "We're upgradingBKD…as its risk-reward has improved after its recent pullback. While we're puttinga >50% probability that BKD's ongoing sale process results in a deal, we thinkshares can reach $14.50 even without a takeout if BKD achieves its FCF guidance.That said, combining the Board's recognition of NT fundamental challenges &the compelling LT demographics-driven outlook for senior housing makes a sale ofBKD (at $17-$20) more likely, in our view."