Berenberg Lifts Reckitt Benckiser Forecasts, Price Target After Q2 Results; Hold Maintained

06:28 AM EDT, 08/05/2026 (MT Newswires) -- Berenberg raised its forecasts for Reckitt Benckiser Group (RKT.L) after the company's second-quarter results, with analysts noting its "better" core business. "For Q226, the company reported group organic sales growth of 4.7% yoy, ahead of consensus forecasts of 3.7%. Core Reckitt beat expectations with 4.2% lfl growth (consensus: 3.7%)," according to a Wednesday note. The research firm attributed the Core Reckitt beat to a "sequential acceleration" in the group's emerging markets segment, and an additional boost from the "standout" performance of its germ protection category. As such, the research firm raised its sales, EBIT, and EPS projections for 2026 through 2028, with the updated estimates also reflecting the latest management commentary and foreign exchange developments. The stock's hold rating was maintained, while the price target was raised to 53.52 pounds sterling from 51.79 pounds. "We continue to view the risk and reward profile for Reckitt as balanced. The next key focus for Reckitt will be the upcoming bellwether case in the ongoing necrotising enterocolitis litigation, Inman v. Mead Johnson, which is set for trial on 17 August," analysts said.