Analysts Lift IBM and Texas Instruments Targets

IBM led the analyst upgrade cycle Wednesday. The consensus rating moved higher after multiple firms lifted their views. The average target price rose to $262.85 from $253.94. IBM trades at a $198 billion market cap with short interest at just 3.8% of free float — bears are light here.

Texas Instruments got a fresh boost from KeyBanc analyst John Vinh. He raised his price target to $400 from $390, maintaining a Buy rating. The chip maker has a $265 billion market cap. Short sellers have minimal exposure at just 1.8% of free float.

Raymond James Financial saw its consensus upgrade twice in quick succession. The average target rose to $184.92 from $182.67. Financial sector sentiment remains broadly positive.

Hasbro got a notable upgrade. The toy maker moved to Hold from Sell in the consensus view. Its average target nudged up to $108.15. Two analysts now rate it as a Hold, with 12 still at Sell — so the upgrade is modest but marks a turning point.

The Southern Company was the biggest loser. Analysts cut the utility's consensus rating. The average target slipped to $100.63 from $101.76. Three analysts now rate it a Sell versus two previously.