Endeavour Group needs a permanent CEO ASAP, says Jefferies

** Analysts at Jefferies lower price target on Australia's Endeavour Group EDV to A$5.5 from A$5.7; maintain stock rating at "buy"

** Says company's 1H result was mostly in-line, but it is disappointed with the weak retail trading update and delays to a CEO appointment

** EDV is a strong franchise and we see upside from better Property, Hotel Renewals & potentially separation, but it needs a permanent CEO ASAP - Jefferies

** Brokerage says delays & uncertainty created by the CEO situation are disappointing

** Stock down 0.7% YTD