Church & Dwight could be set up to thrive if the U.S. economy were to experience a recession, says Bank of America. Analyst Anna Lizzul upgraded the consumer goods maker to buy from neutral and increased its price target by $13 to $125, which implies more than 18% upside from Monday’s close. “CHD is poised to benefit from a challenging consumer backdrop and potential trade-down with its value portfolio,” the analyst said, noting that the stock has outperformed the S & P 500 in the last four recessions with an average beat of 22% versus the broad market index. Shares have already outperformed the S & P 500 in 2025. Year to date, Church & Dwight has risen almost 1%, while the S & P 500 has plummeted more than 7%. The stock has also gained about 4% over the past week in what was a volatile market marred by tariff uncertainty and recessionary fears. CHD .SPX YTD mountain CHD vs. S & P 500, year-to-date Lizzul views Church & Dwight as having a “compelling” risk-reward profile based on improving volumes coupled with market share gains. She also noted that its portfolio mix of 36% value and 64% premium makes it “well positioned” in a recessionary environment. The company’s brands include Arm & Hammer, Kaboom and Orange Glo. Bolstering its resilience during periods of economic downturn, the analyst found that the company has a low risk from store brands, seeing that only five of its 18 categories have competition from private label. Along with that, Lizzul said Church & Dwight could benefit from a pickup in merger and acquisition activity. With a strengthening balance sheet, there is the potential for more than one acquisition this year, she said. “Looking ahead, we expect management to continue its cadence of acquisitions, as the company looks to leverage its capabilities to increase its reach and drive efficient profitable growth globally,” the analyst wrote. Contrary to Lizzul, Wall Street is mostly neutral on the name, as 12 out of 26 analysts covering it have a hold rating, per LSEG. Lizzul’s call joins eight others on the Street with a strong buy or buy rating. Analysts still expect the stock to rise, however. Church & Dwight has a consensus target of roughly $108, reflecting nearly 3% upside. Get Your Ticket to Pro LIVE Join us at the New York Stock Exchange! Uncertain markets? Gain an edge with CNBC Pro LIVE , an exclusive, inaugural event at the historic New York Stock Exchange. In today’s dynamic financial landscape, access to expert insights is paramount. As a CNBC Pro subscriber, we invite you to join us for our first exclusive, in-person CNBC Pro LIVE event at the iconic NYSE on Thursday, June 12. Join interactive Pro clinics led by our Pros Carter Worth, Dan Niles and Dan Ives, with a special edition of Pro Talks with Tom Lee. You’ll also get the opportunity to network with CNBC experts, talent and other Pro subscribers during an exciting cocktail hour on the legendary trading floor. Tickets are limited!
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