Wall Street Analysts Hold Neutral Stance on Clorox Amid Weak Outlook

The Clorox Company (CLX) has significantly underperformed the broader market, with its stock declining 32.5% over the past year compared to the S&P 500's 26.5% gain. In 2026 alone, CLX shares have fallen nearly 8.8%, lagging behind both the S&P 500 and the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP). Investor sentiment worsened after the Q3 2026 earnings release on May 1, where the stock dropped 9.7% despite beating revenue and EPS estimates. The decline was driven by management's decision to lower full-year adjusted EPS guidance by 9.4% to a midpoint of $5.55, citing a weaker outlook. Currently, 18 analysts cover the stock with a consensus "Hold" rating, comprising one "Strong Buy," twelve "Holds," and five "Strong Sells." This configuration has become more bearish recently, highlighted by Barclays analyst Lauren Lieberman maintaining a "Sell" rating with a $102 price target. While the mean price target of $100.80 suggests a modest 9.6% upside, the prevailing analyst sentiment reflects caution due to expected earnings contraction and competitive pressures within the consumer staples sector.