Recent analyst actions have highlighted various strategic evaluations for prominent companies. While Starbucks faces challenges prompting a shift in sentiment, Adobe’s resilience in cash flow and AI monetization leads to a more optimistic outlook.
Meanwhile, Uber and MSCI have experienced reflective assessments adjusted to current market behaviors. These latest rating changes reflect careful analysis of financial performance, competitive positioning, and market valuation as we head into the final quarter of 2025.
Upgrades
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Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE): Upgrade from Hold to Buy by JR Research. The analyst cites Adobe’s strong cash flow generation and growing AI monetization as key factors overcoming previous concerns about disruption from competitors.
“Adobe continues to mint significant cash flow, while also seeing improved AI monetization, downplaying these threats. With selling pressure alleviating as the stock begins to find its footing, I present my case on why investors should finally return to catch that proverbial falling knife now.”
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MSCI Inc. (NYSE:MSCI): Upgrade to Buy by Triba Research. After years of trading sideways due to high valuation, the analyst believes MSCI’s stock is finally at fair value with its strong business model and strategic debt-financed buybacks.
“After some years of trading sideways, MSCI’s stock is finally trading around its fair value. In consequence, I have initiated a long position in the company. However, revenues are growing at high single digits, and if we take into account the 1.4% annual dividend yield, possible acquisitions, and buybacks, MSCI’s stock will deliver double-digit returns.”
Downgrades
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Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX): Downgrade to Hold by Daniel Jones. The company’s revenue growth is primarily driven by new locations and price increases, while comparable store sales and profitability continue to decline despite turnaround initiatives.
“Starbucks is going through an interesting time. I suppose that there is the potential for upside if things go right. But between the troubles the company has, how early it is in its turnaround process, and how the stock is valued, I just don’t see a reason to get terribly optimistic. The company looks to be more or less fairly valued at this moment.”
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Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER): Downgrade to Hold by Bay Area Ideas. Despite solid growth in users, bookings, and profitability, concerns about slowing mobility segment growth and potential margin pressure in Q3 have tempered the outlook.
“After today’s analysis, I believe there are good reasons to turn a bit cautious on the stock, at least for the near term. As mentioned above, Q2 was overall a good quarter, but the continued sluggishness in their flagship segment isn’t a great sign. More importantly, their guidance shows it’s not all smooth sailing moving forward, and so the EV/EBITDA ratio that has expanded significantly from the start of the year may have to take a breather.”