Wall Street Analysts Boost Take-Two Outlook Ahead of Critical Milestones

Take-Two Interactive Software is receiving a wave of positive sentiment from key Wall Street firms, with several analysts raising their price targets and recommendations. The collective optimism, however, is tempered by a central question facing investors: how much of the anticipated value from the upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI release is already reflected in the current share price?

In a significant move, Morgan Stanley lifted its price target for Take-Two to $280 on Thursday, reaffirming its Overweight rating. This new target suggests an approximate upside potential of 14.6% from recent trading levels. Concurrently, Zacks Investment Research upgraded the publisher’s stock to a "Strong Buy" rating. This decision followed a 2.2% upward revision to earnings estimates for the current fiscal year over the preceding 60 days.

Adding to the bullish chorus, Jefferies reiterated its Buy recommendation, setting an even higher target of $300 per share. Their analysts anticipate "largely uneventful" quarterly results but emphasize that the company's overall trajectory remains on track. They noted the mobile segment is developing as planned, while established franchises such as NBA 2K and GTA Online continue to deliver solid performance.

Key Metrics and Market Sentiment

• Analyst Consensus: Among 31 covering analysts, 84% currently recommend buying the shares.
• Market Capitalization: The company is valued at $45.14 billion.
• Player Engagement: GTA Online recorded its highest concurrent user numbers on Steam in December for the past two years.

The GTA VI Countdown Drives Narrative

The overarching investment story for Take-Two is inextricably linked to the development and release schedule of Grand Theft Auto VI. The blockbuster title, expected in November 2026, is the dominant factor in the company's valuation. Jefferies analysts pointed out that the most substantial share price appreciation will likely materialize closer to the confirmed launch date.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Take-Two?

Institutional investor activity reflects a divergence in strategy. Recent filings show Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings increased its stake, while Nordea Investment Management reduced its position by 123,514 shares. Historical patterns indicate significant stock volatility in the 12 to 18 months preceding a major Rockstar Games release, with any rumors of delays putting immediate pressure on the share price.

Upcoming Financial Report and Technical Levels

All eyes will be on Take-Two’s third-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings report, scheduled for February 3, 2026. A crucial element of the update will be any management commentary reaffirming the November 2026 window for GTA VI. Official confirmation of this release timeframe is expected to act as a positive catalyst for the stock.

From a technical analysis perspective, maintaining support at the $242 level is viewed as important. A sustained breakout above $246 could potentially open a path toward retesting the 52-week high of $264.79.