NextDecade Stock Drops 7.7%, Analysts Divided on Buy or Sell

Shares of the LNG company fall as analysts weigh in on its future prospects.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 7:52pm

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An extreme close-up of industrial LNG equipment and machinery, conveying the capital-intensive and high-stakes nature of the natural gas export business.NextDecade's ambitious LNG export plans face scrutiny from Wall Street as the company navigates a competitive and capital-intensive industry.Brownsville Today

Shares of NextDecade Corporation (NASDAQ:NEXT) fell 7.7% on Thursday, trading as low as $7.41. The company, which is developing a large-scale LNG export facility in Brownsville, Texas, saw trading volume decline 30% from its average. Wall Street analysts have mixed views on the stock, with one rating it a 'sell' and others maintaining 'hold' recommendations.

Why it matters

NextDecade's flagship Rio Grande LNG project is a major investment in the growing global LNG market, but the company faces challenges including regulatory hurdles and competition from other proposed export facilities. The stock's performance and analyst sentiment reflect uncertainty around the project's timeline and profitability.

The details

NextDecade reported a wider-than-expected loss in its most recent quarter, contributing to the stock's decline. Analysts have lowered their price targets, citing factors like the company's high debt levels and the competitive LNG landscape. However, the company maintains an 'overweight' rating from one analyst, suggesting potential upside if it can successfully develop its Brownsville facility.

  • NextDecade stock fell 7.7% on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
  • The company reported earnings on February 27, 2026.

The players

NextDecade Corporation

A Houston-based liquefied natural gas (LNG) and decarbonization company focused on developing large-scale LNG export facilities, including its flagship Rio Grande LNG project in Brownsville, Texas.

Weiss Ratings

A financial research firm that has issued a 'sell' rating on NextDecade stock.

Capital One Financial

An investment bank that initiated coverage of NextDecade with an 'overweight' rating and $7 price target.

Morgan Stanley

A Wall Street firm that has decreased its price target on NextDecade, citing the company's high debt levels and competitive LNG landscape.

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What’s next

Investors will be closely watching for any updates on NextDecade's progress with its Rio Grande LNG project, including regulatory approvals and final investment decisions. The company's ability to secure long-term offtake agreements and manage its debt load will be key factors in determining the stock's future performance.

The takeaway

NextDecade's stock volatility reflects the high-stakes nature of the LNG export business, where large projects face significant financial and regulatory hurdles. The mixed analyst views underscore the uncertainty around the company's ability to successfully develop its Brownsville facility and capitalize on growing global demand for cleaner natural gas.