** Colgate-Palmolive CL.N cut its annual sales forecast on Friday, in a sign that rising economic uncertainty is reducing consumer spending on higher-priced items, even in essential categories such as oral and personal care

** Average rating of 22 analysts is "buy"; median PT is $88 - data compiled by LSEG

BRUSHING OFF THE BAD VIBES

** J.P. Morgan ("overweight," PT: $87) expects co to return to a more normal pace of sales growth in 2025, supported by increased marketing investments made over the past five years

** Morgan Stanley ("overweight," PT: $87) says impact of tough year-over-year comparisons, inventory reductions, temporary issues like product reformulations and the discontinuation of private label pet products, and currency fluctuations are all starting to improve

** Piper Sandler ("neutral," PT: $82) continues to believe that co's strong brands and consistent investment in them make its global portfolio attractive. The company remains focused on innovation, aiming to improve its speed, efficiency, and quality by using AI tools effectively

** Morningstar (fair value: $88) notes growing concern about rising competition as consumer spending slows, promotional activity remains below pre-pandemic levels, suggesting companies like Colgate-Palmolive aren't relying on discounts to support weaker demand in the category

(Reporting by Akriti Shah in Bengaluru)

((akriti.shah@thomsonreuters.com))