Analysts Back AppLovin, Lift Adobe and Travel Stocks

Analysts made several notable moves this week. AppLovin picked up a fresh upgrade, moving the consensus to 7 Buy ratings against 6 Holds. The ad-tech firm carries a $508 average price target. Short interest sits at just 4.2% of free float — shorts are not betting against it.

Adobe also attracted positive attention. Analysts lifted the average target to $279, up from $278. The software giant has 5 Buy ratings and 23 Holds. With a $100 billion market cap, Adobe remains a closely watched name into its earnings cycle.

Yum! Brands received a consensus upgrade. The KFC and Pizza Hut parent moved up one notch. Its average target sits at $174. That consensus shift reflects more confidence in the fast-food sector's resilience.

In the travel space, analysts raised targets for both Airbnb and Expedia. Airbnb's average target nudged to $183. Expedia's hit $341. Both benefit from strong summer travel demand.

Kroger was the lone downside mover. Analysts trimmed the average target to $68.50 from $69.80. Margin pressure in US grocery keeps the stock under scrutiny despite a Buy rating from one analyst.

Paychex and Stanley Black & Decker also saw modest target lifts, reflecting broader confidence in payroll services and industrial recovery.