RLJ Lodging Trust shares rise on strong Q1 2026 results and raised outlook despite energy price risks.

RLJ Lodging Trust started 2026 strongly with solid first-quarter results and an improved outlook for the year. The company faces near-term risks from high energy prices, prompting cautious guidance for the rest of 2026. Despite these risks, RLJ's valuation remains attractive, supporting a Buy rating for long-term investors willing to accept risks related to high leverage and potential recession impacts. The company has managed its near-term debt maturities well, though some interest rate pressure may arise from expiring fixed-rate swaps next year.