Accenture Downgraded as Analyst Targets Fall

ACN took a double hit on Thursday. Analysts downgraded the IT services giant and slashed its consensus target price from $227.74 to $208.16. That is an 8.5% cut in one session. The stock carries a short interest of 4.5% of free float — modest, but the downgrade could attract fresh bears.

The move reflects broader caution in the consulting sector. Weak IT spending and AI-driven efficiency gains are squeezing traditional consultancy revenues.

LULU also saw its target trimmed, with consensus dropping from $133.74 to $132.16. The athleisure brand has been under pressure from slowing North American traffic. Short interest sits at 7.4% of free float — elevated for a mid-cap retailer.

KR faced the sharpest percentage target cut. Consensus fell from $75.36 to $72.14, a drop of nearly $3.50. Analysts appear nervous ahead of potential competitive pressure from discounters.

On the positive side, AVGO received an upward target revision, with consensus edging to $523.84. Broadcom's AI chip momentum continues to win over the Street.

DDOG attracted a new recommendation with a bullish $241 average target. The cloud monitoring firm remains a favourite among growth-focused analysts.