Persistent Systems falls 7% despite profit rise, as margin miss and macro concerns weigh on sentiment and analyst expectations.

• EBIT margin at 15.5% disappoints; analysts highlight macro uncertainty and healthcare slowdown impacting client decisions.
• HSBC, Macquarie, and Nomura maintain mixed ratings; target prices suggest limited near-term upside.
• Stock is the top Nifty IT loser, down 19% YTD, despite a long-term growth outlook and analyst support.