Analysts Lift Targets on Defence and Healthcare Names

Analyst target prices moved broadly higher this week. Defence, healthcare, and industrials dominated the upgrade cycle.

L3Harris Technologies saw its consensus target lift to $331.53 from $327.61. The defence electronics group sits in a sector with continued spending tailwinds. General Dynamics also attracted a target bump, consensus now at $408.68 versus $406.78 prior.

HCA Healthcare received a target increase to $470.38 from $469.90. Hospital operators have benefited from stable patient volumes and cost discipline this year.

The sharpest target move came at Howmet Aerospace. Analysts cut the average target to $306.75 from $323.90, a drop of more than $17. Howmet makes aerospace fasteners and structural parts. The trim suggests some caution after a strong run.

Xcel Energy was the session's most notable downgrade. The consensus rating moved down. Its target edged to $89.16 from $89.05. Utility stocks face pressure as bond yields stay elevated.

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals attracted the biggest absolute target increase. The consensus price target rose to $924.00 from $869.07, a gain of nearly $55. Regeneron reports quarterly results soon.

Republic Services also stood out. Its target jumped to $253.38 from $243.96. The waste management firm is seen as defensive and cash-generative.

AbbVie rounded out the healthcare strength, its consensus target rising to $290.42 from $283.19.