Semis and Diagnostics Lead Analyst Upgrades

Analysts lifted targets across semiconductors and healthcare diagnostics this week, while a broad wave of cuts swept through the utility sector.

Oppenheimer raised its price target on NXPI to $325 from $300, maintaining a Buy rating. NXP Semiconductors carries a $68 billion market cap. Short interest sits at just 3.5% of free float, suggesting little bearish conviction from traders.

INTC also got a boost. Morgan Stanley lifted its target to $84 from $75. The analyst kept a Hold rating, but the $9 move is the largest percentage jump Intel has seen from that firm in recent quarters.

Mizuho upgraded its target on DGX sharply, moving to $260 from $235. Quest Diagnostics has a $25 billion market cap. Short sellers are not heavily positioned — SI sits at just 4% of free float.

Toy maker HAS also attracted a higher target. The consensus average target price rose to $108.92 from $108.15. Short interest is 6% of free float, moderate for a consumer name.

Meanwhile, utilities took hits across the board. DUK, ETR, SO, XEL, FE, PEG, DTE, and AEE all saw consensus target prices trimmed. The cuts are small in dollar terms but reflect a coordinated sector reassessment, likely driven by rising rate sensitivity and grid cost pressures.