Citi Lowers Rating on Sherwin-Williams Amid Housing Market Headwinds

Sherwin-Williams (NYSE:SHW) saw its rating cut by Citi from Buy to Neutral, with the price target trimmed to $385 from $405, as analysts flagged ongoing challenges in the housing sector that could weigh on near-term performance. As a result, the company’s shares fell over 3% intra-day today.

Citi pointed to sustained pressure from elevated mortgage rates and delayed expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, both of which are dampening hopes for a meaningful housing recovery in the second half of 2025. While the firm still views Sherwin-Williams as a strong long-term player with solid market share potential, current conditions suggest limited upside in the short term.

Without clear near-term catalysts, Citi sees the stock’s risk/reward profile as less compelling and recommends investors consider other names better positioned for today’s macro environment. The firm expressed a preference for RPM International, citing its greater exposure to non-residential construction and infrastructure spending trends.