5 big analyst AI moves: Apple lifted to Buy, AI chip bets reassessed
Investing.com - Bernstein SocGen Group has reiterated an Outperform rating and GBP65.00 price target on Reckitt Benckiser (LON:RKT) stock, citing continued strong performance in emerging markets. The consumer goods giant, currently valued at $52.66 billion, has demonstrated impressive momentum with a 37.98% year-to-date return and trades near its 52-week high of $15.98.
The research firm highlighted Reckitt’s impressive growth in China, which has delivered nine consecutive quarters of double-digit increases. This performance stems from high consumer engagement in the Consumer Health space, brand investments, and innovation, resulting in substantial market share gains in Chinese e-commerce.
India has been another growth driver for Reckitt, though it experienced some disruption in the recent quarter with growth slowing to low single digits after a GST reduction announcement led consumers to defer purchases. Bernstein expects this temporary slowdown to reverse in Q4, noting that Reckitt has achieved high single-digit growth in India year to date.
The firm’s updated model raises 2025 EPS estimates by 0.8% and 2026 EPS estimates by 1.7%, primarily due to higher sales projections. Reckitt’s strategy in India focuses on expanding distribution alongside innovation.
While Bernstein acknowledges the NEC litigation in the MJN division remains a key risk for Reckitt shares, it believes the planned disposal of Essential Home by year-end will bring increased focus to the strong performance of the company’s core business.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.