On January 8, 2026, BNP Paribas downgraded Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) from Outperform to Neutral. The firm set a price target of $71. It stated that valuations in the consumer staples area are anticipated to stay "cheap."
Separately, on January 7, 2026, Jefferies maintained its Underperform rating for Unilever. It lifted its price target from 4,000 GBp to 4,100 GBp. Jefferies reported that price and operating margin challenges are limiting earnings growth. Valuation downside risk is still present, according to the firm.
The company anticipates that volume and mix will be approximately 2% in the fourth-quarter results on February 12. Jefferies identified the potential impact of a declining U.S. growth contribution as a concern to market confidence in the first half of 2026. Anticipated volatility around FY26 operating margin dynamics was also noted.
As of January 9, 2026, the stock is down by 1.65% year-to-date. Unilever PLC specializes in beauty, wellness, and personal care, home care, and packaged food. It was recently listed among the 7 Best Beauty Stocks to Buy Right Now.