Barclays Lowers American Express Target Ahead of Earnings

Barclays has lowered its price target for American Express Company (ISIN US0258161092) from USD 364 to USD 342, while maintaining an Equal Weight rating. This adjustment is part of a broader trend among analysts ahead of the company's third-quarter results, which are expected to be released on October 23, 2026. UBS also reduced its target for American Express from USD 384 to USD 345, keeping a Neutral rating. Despite these reductions, American Express reported strong second-quarter 2026 performance, with total revenues net of interest expense reaching USD 19.6 billion, up 10.00 percent year over year. Net income was USD 3.1 billion, and diluted earnings per share rose 11.00 percent to USD 4.53.

Analysts' target revisions suggest a more cautious valuation approach, even as the company's operating trends remain positive. American Express has raised its full-year 2026 revenue growth guidance to 10.00 percent, setting a high bar for the upcoming results. The stock was trading at EUR 271.95 on October 6, 2026, up 0.35 percent from the prior close of EUR 271.00. On the NYSE, the primary quote was USD 304.01 as of October 5, 2026, with a 52-week range of USD 290.97 to USD 387.49 and a market capitalization of USD 205.3 billion.

The next earnings release on October 23, 2026, will be a critical checkpoint for investors, as they assess whether the company's operating gains can justify the current valuation. The scheduled earnings call is set for 8:30 a.m. ET following the results release at 7:00 a.m. ET. The continuous real-time quote of American Express stock will reflect further trading developments.