When a stock reaches a certain price, some will worry that the buying pool becomes more limited, as retail investors may feel priced out. Often, when a stock hits $1,000 per share, that seems to be a psychological price level at which more shareholders start wondering whether a stock split is on the horizon.
With the United Rentals (URI +1.74%) stock opening at $1,123.36 on Aug. 14, the world's largest equipment rental company seems like a candidate for a split.
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Will a United Rentals stock split happen in 2026?
United Rentals recently posted strong results for its 2026 second-quarter earnings, raising its 2026 revenue forecast from $16.9 billion to $17.4 billion to $17.5 billion to $17.8 billion. The stock price is also performing well, climbing 42% thus far in 2026 and trading near its 52-week high of $1,179.18.
The stock price has strong momentum, which could help propel it to set a new 52-week high. And if that price keeps rising, it will have investors wondering even more about whether a stock split is on the table.
NYSE: URI
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Why a split isn't a guarantee to happen
Shareholders may worry that a stock won't attract new investors to push the price higher if it's at a certain level. In comparison, a management team may view a higher stock price as a sign of strength. Even if the stock is over $1,000, United could argue that demand is still growing.
By not completing a stock split, United saves time, money, and resources on legal fees and paperwork. But it also helps deter those who may be buying the stock solely because they believe it will receive more attention, with that increased attention creating a short-term profit opportunity.
A United Rental stock split is still possible before the end of the year. But if demand looks healthy and the stock price keeps climbing, there's little incentive for the management team to conduct one.
