** Shares of fintech MeridianLink rise as much as 4.2%; last up 3.8% at $25

** UBS upgrades its rating on MLNK to "neutral" from "sell," citing more consistent execution from the management and a favorable lending environment on the horizon from additional rate cuts in 2025

** Brokerage also raises PT to $25 from $18, a 3.6% upside to stock's last close

** Consistent margin outlook beats over the last five quarters coupled with a more sustained acceleration of the consumer lending business increases our confidence on MLNK - UBS

** Three of eight brokerages rate the stock "buy" or higher, four "hold" and one "sell"; their median PT is $24.75 - LSEG data

** As of last close, MLNK shares down 2.7% YTD

(Reporting by Arasu Kannagi Basil in Bengaluru)

((ArasuKannagi.Basil@thomsonreuters.com;))