Citi Prefers Haleon Over Reckitt Benckiser Ahead of Q1 Results

Citi analysts have expressed a clear preference for Haleon PLC over Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC ahead of their upcoming first-quarter updates. The bank issued a cautious outlook for Reckitt, citing a lack of immediate positive catalysts for the consumer goods giant. Key headwinds for Reckitt include weak seasonal flu demand in the US and the unwinding of pricing power in emerging markets. Additionally, increased promotional competition in European markets is expected to weigh on near-term performance across the sector. While the outlook for Reckitt remains pressured, Haleon is positioned as the more attractive option within the consumer health space according to the bank. Investors are now closely watching these updates to gauge how companies navigate shifting demand and global pricing dynamics.