Bernstein lifts Hilton PT, citing resilient fee growth

Bernstein raises Hilton Worldwide HLT.N PT to $288 from $261, a 6.2% premium from the stock's last close

Maintains rating at "market perform"

Brokerage says HLT stock has emerged as a standout among hotel peers this year, despite its heavier exposure to the U.S. market and limited focus on luxury

Notes co's outperformance reflects steady growth in fee revenues, stronger cash returns and a business model that leans on defensive expansion through new unit additions

Shares of the company marginally up 0.4% at $272 in early trading

11 of 27 brokerages rate the stock "buy" or higher, 16 "hold" ; their median PT is $274 - data compiled by LSEG

Including session moves, shares up 10.1% YTD