Argus Downgrades P&G to Hold on Slower Growth Outlook

Financial analysis firm Argus has downgraded Procter & Gamble's stock rating to 'Hold' from 'Buy', citing underperformance and a slower growth outlook. The consumer goods company's shares rose 2% over the past quarter, trailing the market's 6% gain and the Consumer Staples sector ETF's 4% advance.

Procter & Gamble reported fiscal fourth-quarter 2026 earnings that narrowly beat the consensus estimate but declined 3% from the prior year. Management is guiding for slower growth in fiscal year 2027, with core operating margin trending lower for the last three quarters, according to Argus.

The firm said macroeconomic pressures and geopolitical tensions support the Hold rating given the slow-growth outlook. Procter & Gamble's CEO, Shailesh Jejurikar, noted that the acquisition price of Thorne aligns with industry benchmarks and reflects the company's growth rates.