Virtu Financial (NASDAQ:VIRT) shares rose more than 2% intra-day today after Citi analysts increased their price target for the company to $22.50 from $21, while maintaining a Buy rating. The analysts noted that the first quarter of 2024 has seen some positive developments for Virtu Financial, including increased retail activity.

These factors are expected to partially counteract the impact of persistently low volatility levels. Despite the current market conditions not being entirely favorable, the analysts believe that Virtu Financial is strategically well-placed to capitalize on any improvements in the market, whether through sustained retail activity or better volatility.

The firm is also expected to benefit in the long term from its progress in growth initiatives across various sectors, including options, fixed income, currencies and commodities (FICC), ETF blocks, and cryptocurrency.