Barclays Cuts FactSet Target 30% to Underweight; Bull Thesis Cites High Switching Costs
Barclays slashed FactSet’s price target by 30% to $210 and kept an Underweight rating over AI-driven competition, joining other firms in reiterating sell views. FactSet also announced a $1.10 dividend, and bulls cite its 18.1 trailing and 15.95 forward P/E plus high-switching costs as drivers of recurring revenue.
1. Analyst Ratings Update
On February 20, Barclays analyst Manav Patnaik reduced FactSet’s price target from $300 to $210 and maintained an Underweight rating, citing intensified AI-driven competition. Wells Fargo and Bank of America similarly reiterated sell and underperform ratings with $195 targets, reflecting broad investor caution across the sector.
2. Dividend Announcement
FactSet declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.10 per share payable on March 19, 2026 to shareholders of record as of February 27. This marks the company’s commitment to returning capital while reinforcing its income profile for yield-focused investors.
3. Bullish Thesis
Proponents highlight FactSet’s resilient subscription model with high switching costs that supports predictable, recurring revenue. With a trailing P/E of 18.1 and forward P/E of 15.95, the company’s integrated analytics platform and sticky client base underpin its case for steady long-term growth.