Core Viewpoint - American Express Company (NYSE: AXP) is experiencing a mixed outlook among analysts, with a slight decrease in the average price target but an overall upward trend compared to last year, reflecting growing confidence in the company's future prospects [1][2][5]. Price Target Summary - The average price target for AXP decreased from $387.55 to $381 over the last month, indicating tempered optimism among analysts [2]. - Compared to last year's target of $361.96, the current price target shows a clear upward trend, suggesting increased confidence in the company's performance [2][5]. Earnings Expectations - American Express is expected to announce a 16.8% increase in earnings per share (EPS) for the fourth quarter, driven by rising network volumes, discount revenues, and card growth [3]. - Analysts believe these factors will help offset the increasing costs associated with customer engagement [3]. Analyst Concerns - Some analysts, such as Mark DeVries from Barclays, have set a lower price target of $145 for AXP, indicating caution regarding the company's ability to meet earnings expectations [4]. - The mixed signals from analysts highlight the importance of upcoming earnings reports and strategic announcements in shaping future expectations and stock price targets [4][5].

Core Viewpoint - General Mills, Inc. is experiencing fluctuations in its consensus price target, reflecting changing analyst expectations in a competitive food market [1][2] Price Target Summary - The average price target for General Mills increased to $51 from $50.5 in the previous quarter but decreased from $53 last year, indicating a shift in analyst expectations [2] - Analyst Christopher Growe from Stifel Nicolaus has set a more optimistic price target of $64 for the stock, suggesting a divergence from the consensus [3] Earnings and Market Conditions - General Mills is scheduled to announce its second-quarter earnings results on December 17, with analysts predicting a decline in earnings, which may have influenced recent adjustments in price targets [2][3] - The company faces challenges related to sales and margins due to price resets and costs from launching new pet products, yet there are signs of improvement in volumes and brand health [4]