AXISBANK

shares sink over 4% on NIM recovery concerns; Citi prefers HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank

Banking Stocks to BUY: Analysts at global brokerage Citi have reiterated their constructive stance on select Indian banking stocks, flagging ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank as preferred picks amid expectations of steady growth and stabilising margins, while maintaining a neutral view on Axis Bank. HDFC Bank | Buy | Target: Rs 1,180 Citi has maintained a Buy rating on HDFC Bank shares with an unchanged target price of Rs 1,180. The brokerage expects the lender’s deposit growth to outpace credit expansion, supporting balance sheet strength.