WPP PLC's stock fell sharply during Friday's intraday session, declining by 5.09% as investor sentiment turned negative following critical analyst commentary.

The decline was driven by a UBS research note that significantly cut the target price for WPP's stock from 280 pence to 210 pence. While acknowledging the company's strategic overhaul as a step in the right direction, UBS analysts emphasized that the market needs to see WPP deliver on its guidance, improve net new business, and prove the effectiveness of its initiatives before becoming more positive. The analysts also highlighted that questions facing the advertising industry pose risks to WPP's plans.

Additional pressure came from Citi analysts, who noted that despite some positive signals in WPP's fourth-quarter update, the combination of market sentiment and a need for greater clarity on potential asset sales might keep shares under pressure. Citi suggested that sales of public relations assets and minority stakes, most notably in Kantar, could help ease debt concerns and reduce complexity within the group.