Medical Properties Trust Stock Skyrockets on Utah Hospital Deal and Asset Sales

Medical Properties Trust stock surged nearly 19% after announcing the sale of its interests in five Utah hospitals to a joint venture for $886 million, generating around $1.1 billion in total cash proceeds. The company plans to use the funds to reduce debt, including payment of a $300 million Australian term loan and repayment of borrowings. This follows recent asset sales and positive developments with its largest tenant, Steward Health Care, indicating efforts to strengthen its balance sheet and restore business stability.