Paychex Upgraded as Analysts Trim Targets

Analyst desks were busy on Monday with a mix of upgrades, target cuts, and removed recommendations across several major names.

PAYX was the standout bullish call. Consensus upgraded the payroll processor, lifting the average target price to $105.07 from $102.14. The $36bn company has a short interest of just 6.3% of free float — not a heavily contested name. The upgrade signals renewed faith in its earnings resilience.

DXCM saw a positive target price revision, with the average nudging up to $85.21. The diabetes monitoring giant carries a market cap near $29bn. Short interest is modest at 4.4%, suggesting limited bearish pressure despite its premium valuation.

On the bearish side, GIS took a target cut. General Mills' average target slipped to $37.00 from $37.56. Short interest sits at 9.3% of free float. Consumer staples names continue to face headwinds as higher-for-longer rates weigh on defensive sectors.

DRI and SCHW both received upward target revisions. Darden Restaurants' average target rose to $226.23. Schwab's average target edged up to $116.05.

Palantir's consensus target dipped slightly to $182.75, though buy ratings held steady across the board.