Stifel raises Hub Group to 'hold' on improved risk-reward profile

** Brokerage Stifel raises logistics provider Hub Group's rating to "hold" from "sell"

** HUBG up 2.1% at $30.2 premarket

** Brokerage says stock's recent share-price decline has improved its risk-reward profile by reducing downside risk with recovery potential

** Points to an improving freight industry backdrop, and says a stronger-than-normal fourth quarter and a broader freight-cycle recovery could help the company resolve its reporting issues and return to normal operations

** Four of 11 brokerages rate the stock "buy" or higher and seven "hold"; median PT is $39 - data compiled by LSEG

** As of last close, stock down 30.6% YTD