HSBC has reduced its target price for Bajaj Finance Ltd (BJFN.NS) to ₹1,110 from ₹1,200, citing margin compression and slower earnings growth. Despite strong asset under management (AUM) expansion, rising costs and competitive pressures are weighing on profitability. The brokerage’s cautious stance reflects sector-wide challenges in India’s non-bank lending market.
Global brokerage HSBC has trimmed its target price for Bajaj Finance Ltd to ₹1,110 from ₹1,200, signaling caution over the company’s near-term growth trajectory. The downgrade comes as Bajaj Finance, one of India’s largest non-bank lenders, faces net interest margin (NIM) pressures, rising operating costs, and intensifying competition in consumer lending.
Key Highlights
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Target revision: HSBC’s cut reflects expectations of slower earnings growth despite robust AUM expansion.
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Profitability concerns: Yield compression and higher cost ratios are impacting margins, with EPS forecasts revised downward.
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Competitive landscape: Increased rivalry in retail lending is challenging Bajaj Finance’s ability to sustain profitability.
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Market reaction: Shares of Bajaj Finance recently fell nearly 8% after management lowered AUM growth guidance for FY2026.
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Sector outlook: HSBC notes that normalization of credit costs and regulatory pressures could further weigh on valuations.
This recalibration underscores the balancing act between growth and profitability for Bajaj Finance. While its lending portfolio remains strong, sustaining margins and earnings growth will be critical to restoring investor confidence in the medium term.
Sources: CNBCTV18, Business Upturn, Republic World