RBC Capital analyst TJ Schultz initiated Viper Energy (VNOM) with an Outperform rating and a price target of $43, saying the company should produce dividend growth thanks to its "portfolio of mineral and royalty interests in the most prolific basin in the U.S." The analyst is also positive on Viper Energy's "flexible balance sheet position and experienced management", leading to more 3rd party acquisitions, and further anticipates the company to benefit from the development program of an "active E&P sponsor in the Permian" - Diamondback Energy (FANG).