Sector Update: Consumer Stocks Advance Late Afternoon

On October 5th, consumer goods company ITC (ITC.NS) shares rose as much as 3.24%, marking the largest intraday gain in five weeks, to 264.2 rupees per share. This increase came after Citi upgraded ITC from "sell" to "buy" and raised its target price from 270 rupees to 300 rupees, suggesting a further upside of 16.7%. Citi stated that while short-term earnings may still be pressured due to a sharp hike in cigarette taxes, the stock has already declined 34% this year, factoring in the impact on related volumes and profitability. The bank added that as pricing measures gradually take effect, the profitability of the cigarette business is set to improve quarter by quarter during the 2027 fiscal year. Citi also mentioned that the earnings downgrade cycle has largely ended, and that the risk-reward ratio under the current valuation has improved. According to data compiled by LSEG, the average rating among 34 analysts tracking ITC is "buy," with a median price target of 322.5 rupees per share. So far in 2026, ITC's share price has fallen 35%, outpacing the 14.2% drop in the Nifty 50 Index .NSEI. (For the benefit of non-English speakers, Reuters has automated the translation of its reports into several other languages. Since automated translations may contain errors or lack necessary context, Reuters does not guarantee the accuracy of automated translations, which are provided for reader convenience. Reuters assumes no responsibility for any damage or loss caused by the use of automated translation functions.)

Against the backdrop of Japan’s worsening fiscal situation, which has already driven up bond yields, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Monday pledged to “keep bond issuance under control” and to take swift action in the event of market turmoil.