** Citi retained its "buy" rating on Judo Capital JDO.AX on improving pipeline, leverage, optimization of both sides of balance sheet; raises TP to A$2.20

** On Tuesday, JDO reported an upbeat full-year net profit after tax, upgraded its 2H26 net interest margin guidance, and FY26 gross loans and advances forecast

** Brokerage says revised forecasts were in line with market expectations, the business is positioning for a period of stronger growth

** Keeps earnings forecasts largely unchanged, but compositionally reflect higher revenue offsetting higher costs - Citi

** Twelve analysts rate the stock "buy" or higher with a median price target of A$2.22, as per data compiled by LSEG

** Stock is up 9.9% YTD, as of last close

($1 = 1.4120 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Anjali Singh in Bengaluru)

((anjali.singh2@thomsonreuters.com;))