CUZ Cousins Properties Inc.

Mizuho reiterated its Outperform rating and Top Pick designation on Cousins Properties, citing its high-quality portfolio and strong balance sheet as key differentiators among office REITs. Following a recent management roadshow, Mizuho highlighted strong leasing activity, limited new supply and rising demand for quality office space across Sunbelt markets. Cousins posted its strongest first-half leasing performance on record, with management targeting 90% occupancy in 2026 and potentially reaching the low-to-mid 90% range in subsequent years. The firm also pointed to the company’s 22 million-square-foot portfolio, now largely focused on newer, amenity-rich and walkable properties. With virtually no new office construction underway and limited projects expected over the next five years, Mizuho sees favorable supply-demand dynamics. Cousins recently reported better-than-expected Q2 results and raised its full-year outlook. $CUZ