CSL Ltd shares edge up as analysts weigh recovery prospects

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) closed slightly higher last week, up about 1% at AUD 123.32. The biotech giant’s shares have risen 16% over the past month and are up roughly 34% since early‑June lows, though they remain down about 29% for the year and have lost around half their value in the last 12 months. The company faces a challenging backdrop with US$5 billion in non‑cash impairments linked to the CSL Vifor acquisition, weakened revenue guidance for FY26 (around US$15.2 billion, about 4% below consensus) and NPAT forecasts of roughly US$3.1 billion, about 7% under expectations. Analysts note that Tavneos contributes only about 1% of group revenue and may be withdrawn in the US and Europe. Sentiment has shifted to more cautious, with 10 of 18 analysts rating the stock as a hold and the remaining eight recommending buy or strong‑buy. The average price target is AUD 138.88, implying about 13% upside, while UBS maintains a bullish stance with a US$158 target.

The outlook suggests modest earnings growth through FY28, and any further positive earnings surprises could support the share price, but the market remains wary of the lingering impairment impacts.