Barclays has upgraded Mercedes-Benz to "equal-weight" from "underweight" following better-than-expected Q4 profitability and a credible cost-savings plan, enhancing the mid-term earnings outlook. The firm notes that the imminent April 2 deadline for reciprocal tariffs is likely priced in, with Mercedes' exposure to existing tariffs being more limited than that of BMW. Additionally, the company's shareholder return policy, including a proposed EUR 5 billion share buyback, is seen as a key support factor.