Suryaa Business Desk: Leading brokerage firms have turned their attention to several major companies following second-quarter financial results, international corporate developments, and growth projections. Analysts have set new target prices and ratings for Hindalco Industries, Bharti Airtel, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), and Bharat Forge.
Hindalco Industries is under focus as it prepares to announce its Q2 results. Its American subsidiary, Novelis, reported Q2 net sales of $5.9 billion, a 25 percent increase, and an adjusted EBITDA of $508 million, a 20 percent increase. Global brokerages maintain a "buy" rating on Hindalco, citing improved margins in the aluminum segment and the restoration of the Oswego plant.
Bharti Airtel continues to see growth driven by improvements in average revenue per user (ARPU), the impact of mobile tariff hikes, and stability in its African business. Analysts expect free cash flow to increase in coming quarters as 5G expansion costs peak. Analysts have set a 12-month target price range of ₹2,300 to ₹2,400 for the stock.
Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) reported a 20 percent year-on-year increase in standalone net profit to ₹12,076 crore for the second quarter, supported by growth in group insurance premiums and the non-par segment. With gross income reaching ₹2.62 lakh crore and improved solvency margins, domestic brokerage firms maintain positive ratings on the stock.
Bharat Forge expects 20-25 percent growth from domestic commercial and passenger vehicle segments. The company’s margins are expected to be supported by a recovery in foreign orders and increasing contracts in the defense sector. Analysts have set an average target price range of ₹1,980 to ₹2,100 for the stock, identifying it as a long-term buying opportunity. Market experts suggest these large-cap counters have the potential to provide stability to investor portfolios amidst Nifty and Sensex fluctuations.