These Wall Street Analysts Are Wary About Shares of UPS and FedEx. Here's Why.

Core Viewpoint - Bank of America analysts have downgraded shares of FedEx and UPS, reflecting increased caution regarding the performance of these U.S. shipping giants amid rising pressures on volume and costs [1][3]. Group 1: Rating Changes - FedEx's rating was downgraded from "buy" to "neutral," with a price target reduced by $5 to $240, which is below the average target of over $269 [2]. - UPS's rating was changed from "neutral" to "underperform," with a target set at $83, the lowest tracked by Visible Alpha and significantly below the mean of approximately $107 [2]. Group 2: Market Context - Both FedEx and UPS stocks have been underperforming this year, contrasting with the S&P 500's rise, indicating broader market challenges for these companies [3]. - The downgrade comes in light of increased pressure on volume and costs, exacerbated by the Trump administration's decision to close a tariff exemption for certain low-value items, impacting some companies negatively [3]. Group 3: Recent Performance - UPS reported second-quarter revenue that exceeded expectations, but disappointing profits and a lack of future guidance led to a decline in share prices [4]. - FedEx suspended its outlook in June, with its shares trading at levels similar to those seen after that announcement [4]. Group 4: Market Reaction - Despite the downgrades, both companies' stocks experienced a rise in recent trading, driven by optimism surrounding potential interest rate cuts [5].