The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday edition that RBC Dominion Securities analyst Greg Pardy has lowered his recommendation for Athabasca Oil to "sector perform" from "outperform." The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Pardy gave his share target a $2 boost to $9. Analysts on average target the shares at $7.99. Mr. Pardy says, "Our constructive stance toward the company continues to reflect its capable leadership team, deep resource base, shareholder alignment, solid operating performance, strong balance sheet, organic growth profile and 100-per-cent payout of (thermal) free cash flow to shareholders." His rating revision came after a recent meeting with the company's president and chief executive officer Robert Broen and chief financial officer Matt Taylor ahead of the release of its fourth quarter and year-end 2025 results on March 6. Mr. Pardy called the discussion "candid" and explored the company's expansion progress at Leismer, contemplated 40,000 barrels-per-day Corner (100 per cent wi) development and egress considerations. "Priority wise, preserving a strong balance sheet and executing its $300-million Leismer expansion remain top of mind for Athabasca's leadership team."