Expeditors Analyst Meeting Seen as Catalyst as AI Data Centers Drive Airfreight, UBS Says

01:37 PM EDT, 10/23/2026 (MT Newswires) -- Expeditors International of Washington's (EXPD) Nov. 18 analyst meeting is likely to be a catalyst for the stock, as greater visibility into multi-year airfreight growth from AI data center buildouts and AI-enabled labor productivity could broaden its investor base, UBS Securities said in a note Friday. Expeditors typically limits communication with investors to earnings reports and regulatory filings, UBS analysts led by Thomas Wadewitz said. The brokerage said management has an opportunity to explain growth drivers, the business mix in its customs and other segment, and potential margin expansion from AI-related efficiencies. The investment firm said data center construction could lift growth in the overall airfreight market to 6% annually from about 3% in its current model, as AI-related airfreight volumes continue to increase. In an upside scenario combining faster airfreight growth with a 3% headcount reduction through productivity gains, UBS sees 2029 earnings per share of $11.00, versus its base case of $9.78. Its downside case is $8.50. UBS has a buy rating and a $220 price target on the stock. Price: 194.98, Change: -1.21, Percent Change: -0.62