2306 GMT - Australia's entrenched inflation is seen by Jefferies analysts as bad news for fashion jewelry retailer Lovisa. Analysts at the investment bank tell clients in a note that stubbornly high inflation, the prospect of further energy-price rises, and expectations of interest-rate rises will weigh on consumer spending. They think that flat discretionary spending is the best that can be hoped for. Furthermore, they already see signs of challenges across the sector in which Lovisa operates. The analysts observe that, across 13 larger players, total store count has fallen by 8% in 18 months and two retailers have entered insolvency procedures. Jefferies cuts its target price 4.2%, to A$32.00, and keeps a "hold" rating on the stock, which is down 0.75%, at A$30.57. (stuart.condie@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

December 11, 2025 18:06 ET (23:06 GMT)

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