US Top Rating Updates on 8/15: DG, CMCSA, TFC, CME and more

Questions about the total addressable market, macroeconomic pressures, and a post-COVID pullback in consumer spending are key reasons to remain cautious on $Etsy Inc(ETSY.US)$, according to Barclays. In a note initiating coverage at a Hold-equivalent rating on Monday, equity analyst Trevor Young commented that strong margins, growth into men's categories, and expansion from its niche fashion domain are encouraging.

BMO Capital Markets moved to Market Perform on $Dollar General(DG.US)$ after having the retailer slotted at Outperform. "Despite our belief that DG's execution remains strong and our expectation for an acceleration in comps as DG benefits from a more price sensitive environment, we believe this strong outlook is accurately reflected in the shares at this time," warned analyst Kelly Bania.

As previously reported, JPMorgan analyst Matthew Boss upgraded $Dillard's(DDS.US)$ to Neutral from Underweight with a price target of $298, up from $210. Several department store bankruptcies and store liquidations have increased Dillard's customer reach, notably in more rural venues, said Boss, who also notes the company's positive structural changes and permanent operating efficiencies post-pandemic.