Chemicals Take Heat as Dow Gets Downgraded

Analysts turned bearish on chemicals Tuesday. Dow Inc. was downgraded, with the consensus target price cut from $41.88 to $40.06. The move reflects mounting pressure on commodity chemicals amid weak industrial demand.

LyondellBasell Industries also saw its target slashed — from $79.59 to $75.29. Two major chemicals names taking cuts on the same day signals sector-wide caution.

NIKE faced fresh pressure too. Analysts trimmed the average target to $55.07, down from $55.22. The consensus sits at 24 holds against just 12 buys. That's a cautious read on the sneaker giant as it navigates a turnaround.

On the brighter side, KKR & Co. saw its average target nudged up to $126.68. The private equity giant carries just 2.2% short interest. Analysts remain firmly bullish — 18 buys and no sells.

Valero Energy also got a target lift, to $265.72. Refining margins appear to be holding up better than chemicals.

A batch of consumer staples — including Kraft Heinz, Conagra, and General Mills — all saw recommendations removed, thinning coverage across the food sector.