Barclays Initiates Bullish Coverage on Hill & Smith Amid U.S. Infrastructure Demand

By EC Assets · Published 18 September 2026

Barclays initiated bullish coverage on Hill & Smith. The decision stems from anticipated U.S. infrastructure demand. Barclays also downgraded WH Smith. The firm cut WH Smith's rating to "equal weight" from "overweight". Barclays reduced WH Smith's price target to £6.75 from £13.10. A lack of clarity regarding profitability contributed to this change. North America uncertainty further influenced the decision. Barclays PLC faces an investigation. The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith continue an investigation on behalf of Barclays PLC investors. This investigation concerns securities fraud allegations. Barclays expects the Bank of England to implement interest rate hikes. The firm anticipates rate increases in November and February. Inflation risks are driving these expectations. Barclays also warned that Middle East conflict could spur more rate hikes. This article is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice.