Track market-moving stories before they get noisy

HCA Healthcare stock falls after the hospital chain operator lowers its full-year profit outlook as uninsured patients rise in the second quarter.

The Zacks Film and Television Production and Distribution industry is witnessing a surge in demand for digital entertainment due to operational constraints faced by movie theaters, theme parks and cruise lines. This increased consumption of online media, music and news, driven by the work-and-learn-from-home trend, has been a boon for industry players like Warner Music Group (WMG - Free Report) , News Corporation (NWSA - Free Report) , Cinemark (CNK - Free Report) and CuriosityStream (CURI - Free Report) . However, as more players enter the field, content costs are skyrocketing, putting pressure on profitability. This trend is forcing companies to spend heavily on original programming and exclusive rights to attract and retain viewers, which can strain financial resources and impact stock performance.

Industry Description The Zacks Film and Television Production and Distribution industry encompasses companies engaged in the creation, distribution and exhibition of film and television content. The core activities revolve around producing entertainment for theaters, television networks, video-on-demand platforms, streaming services and other outlets that showcase such works. A notable company like IMAX specializes in advanced motion picture technologies and immersive presentation experiences. Industry participants are involved in the production and dissemination of movies destined for theatrical releases and direct-to-video markets, as well as television programming. The financial performance of these entities hinges greatly on the global box office success of their films, coupled with the number of new releases and the viewership ratings garnered by their television shows.

3 Film and Television Production Industry Trends in Focus Over-the-Top Services Gain Prominence: Content creators are increasingly distributing through over-the-top streaming services to capitalize on the popularity of their franchises. Their aim is to provide exclusive content and a differentiated viewing experience. However, streaming companies themselves are producing more original, award-winning programming to reduce licensing costs and reliance on third-party providers, which could undermine traditional content distribution strategies.

Binge-Watching Drives Consumption: Phenomena like binge-watching, wider Internet adoption and advancements in mobile, video and wireless technologies have led consumers to frequently view content on smaller screens. To adapt to these new viewing patterns, industry players are pivoting to digital content distribution. The rise of digital capabilities provides easier access to consumer data, allowing production companies to leverage AI tools for a better understanding of audience preferences and to create resonant content. However, intense competition from streamers is forcing increased spending on content and marketing, hurting profitability.

Technological Advancement Aids Prospects: Exhibitors are adopting highly efficient, cost-effective laser projection systems to enhance image quality and the overall movie experience. Technologies like motion seating, immersive audio, interactive movies, AR and VR are expected to further elevate the viewing experience. Conversely, the growth of alternative distribution channels like home video, pay-per-view, streaming, VOD, Internet and broadcast TV is challenging traditional exhibitors.

Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Dull Prospects The Zacks Film and Television Production and Distribution industry is housed within the broader Zacks Consumer Discretionary sector. It carries a Zacks Industry Rank #178, which places it in the bottom 28% of more than 246 Zacks industries.

The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates encouraging near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.

The industry’s position in the bottom 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is a result of a negative earnings outlook for the constituent companies in aggregate. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are pessimistic about this group’s earnings growth potential. Since July 31, 2025, the industry’s earnings estimate for 2026 has moved down 19.7%.

Despite the gloomy industry outlook, a few stocks are worth watching based on a strong earnings outlook. Before we present a few stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio, let’s take a look at the industry’s recent stock-market performance and valuation picture.

Industry Outperforms the Sector, Lags S&P 500 The Zacks Film and Television Production and Distribution industry has outperformed the broader Zacks Consumer Discretionary sector and the S&P 500 composite over the past year.

The industry has returned 5.3% in the abovementioned period compared with the broader sector’s decline of 15.5% growth. The S&P 500 has risen 23.1% during the same time frame.

One-Year Price Performance

Industry's Current Valuation On the basis of the trailing 12-month price-to-sales (P/S), a commonly used multiple for valuing Film and Television Production and Distribution stocks, the industry is currently trading at 2.79X compared with the S&P 500’s 6.08X and the sector’s 1.56X.

Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 3.14X and as low as 2.54X, recording a median of 2.76X, as the chart below shows.

Trailing 12-Month P/S Ratio

4 Film & Television Stocks to Watch Right Now News Corporation is well-positioned to achieve company-guided record full-year profitability in fiscal 2026, backed by structural momentum across key segments. Dow Jones remains the standout driver — Risk & Compliance revenues surged 19%, while Wall Street Journal digital-only subscriptions climbed to 4.3 million, now representing 92% of total WSJ subscriptions. Management has outlined a clear pathway to $1 billion in annual Dow Jones EBITDA within five years. News Corporation's active $1 billion buyback has seen over $320 million deployed through June 2026, reinforcing capital discipline. Dow Jones's inaugural WSJ Sports: The Next Sports Economy live event (July 15-16, 2026) signals deliberate revenue diversification into premium live experiences. Realtor.com's improving housing market engagement provides incremental near-term momentum.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for this Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) company’s fiscal 2026 earnings has remained steady at 92 cents per share over the past 60 days. NWSA shares have returned 3.9% in the past six-month period. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Price and Consensus: NWSA

Cinemark is well-positioned for near-term upside, anchored by accelerating box office momentum and disciplined operations. In June 2026, the company reported its all-time high domestic box office for May and its biggest-ever June weekend performance, fueled by Toy Story 5, which also delivered record June weekend food and beverage per caps — underscoring deepening per-guest monetization. A dense second-half slate featuring Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Avengers: Doomsday, Dune: Part Three, and The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping supports near-term revenue visibility. Cinemark XD, the world's #1 private-label premium large format, generates 13% of box office on 5% of screens, amplifying unit economics. Management guides for continued margin expansion and higher marketing investment through 2026, reinforcing a constructive fundamental setup.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for this Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company’s 2026 earnings has moved north by 2.8% to $2.17 per share over the past 60 days. CNK shares have gained 19.2% in the past six-month period.

Price and Consensus: CNK

Warner Music Group is well-positioned for near-term growth, anchored by a monetizable AI strategy. The June 2026 acquisition of Sureel AI strengthens WMG's ability to protect and monetize intellectual property, name, image and likeness in AI-generated works, creating recurring revenue streams. Management has guided toward the high end of its 150-200 basis point full-year adjusted OIBDA margin expansion, supported by subscription streaming gains from per-subscriber minimum increases and market share growth. A Bain Capital joint venture has deployed $650 million into recorded music and publishing catalogs. First-look deals with Paramount Pictures and Netflix extend catalog monetization across theatrical and documentary formats. Warner Records' July 2026 partnership with three times LOUDER builds the talent pipeline. These catalysts reinforce this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company's growth fundamentals.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WMG’s fiscal 2026 earnings has remained steady at $1.52 per share over the past 60 days. WMG shares have lost 6.9% in the past six-month period.

Price and Consensus: WMG

CuriosityStream is positioned for meaningful near-term stock appreciation, driven by a convergence of strategic catalysts. The company's July 2026 acquisition of full ownership of its German operations — its largest non-English-speaking market — consolidates control and opens new monetization pathways across subscription, linear TV, FAST and AI licensing channels. New third-party licensing deals signed in second-quarter 2026 are expected to generate more than $10 million in incremental revenues, reinforcing 2026 guidance of $75-$80 million in revenues and $16-$20 million in adjusted EBITDA. Licensing revenues are poised to surpass subscriptions for the full year, a meaningful higher-margin shift. The board's decision to raise its quarterly dividend to 8.5 cents per share signals confidence in targeted double-digit revenues and cash flow growth in 2026.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for this Zacks Rank #3 company’s 2026 earnings has moved north by 75% to 7 cents per share over the past 60 days. CURI shares have plunged 28.8% in the past six-month period.

Price and Consensus: CURI

, /PRNewswire/ -- Indiana American Water today announced construction of a new 1.5‑million‑gallon elevated water tank in the Innovation Mile in eastern portion of the City Noblesville, supporting the rapidly expanding area surrounding Hamilton Town Center. The project is part of a larger $15 million system investment that includes additional water storage, two booster-station upgrades, and three phases of new water mains—further demonstrating the company's commitment to strengthening water infrastructure and helping ensure reliable service for homes and businesses across the Noblesville distribution system.

Located on Olio Road near Noblesville Fire Station No. 77, the nearly 150‑foot‑tall structure features a concrete pedestal and steel tank designed to serve the region's long-term growth. Recently built, the tank proudly displays the Noblesville city brand on south side and Indiana American Water's logo on the other.

The combined tank, booster station, and water main improvements will increase storage capacity, enhance system reliability, improve water pressure, and bolster fire protection throughout the community.

"Adding a water tank near Noblesville's 600-acre innovation, tech, sports and entertainment district supports the continued growth of Noblesville's east side," said Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen. "The City of Noblesville is grateful to Indiana American Water for its partnership in providing reliable service that helps sustain ongoing economic development and quality of life for residents."

Indiana American Water engineering project manager, Ryan Bane, said, "This project reflects our ability to strategically plan for growth while working hand in hand with the City of Noblesville to meet the community's long‑term needs. By increasing storage capacity and strengthening our system, we're supporting continued economic development in this rapidly expanding area."

Construction of the elevated water tank and associated system improvements is expected to be completed and operational by early Oct. 2026. Indiana American Water recognizes and appreciates the strong support and collaboration of the City of Noblesville, Hamilton County, and the project team—including- Caldwell Tanks, Inc., Tank Industry Consultants, Culy Contracting, F.A. Wilhelm Construction, American Structurepoint, GFT Infrastructure, and Aqualign Engineering.

This project is funded through customer rates from across the state and reflects Indiana American Water's ongoing commitment to investing in the local infrastructure that keeps water service reliable, safe, and ready to meet future needs.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water's 6,500 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Indiana American Water
Indiana American Water, a subsidiary of American Water is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people. For more information, visit amwater.com/inaw and join Indiana American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

SOURCE American Water

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Yes, AppLovin (NASDAQ:APP | APP Price Prediction) has already made someone rich. The stock is up 1,473.18% over the three years ending July 13, 2026, turning a $10,000 stake into more than $150,000. If you watched it happen from the sidelines, the question now is whether entering at $453.57 makes you a latecomer or simply late to a still-running story. The answer, based on the numbers, is that there is still time, but the setup is very different from what the early buyers got.

Valuation: Expensive, but Not Unhinged AppLovin trades at a trailing P/E of 44 and a forward P/E of 32. Rich, but not extreme for a company printing 75.75% operating margins and 60.83% net margins. Free cash flow yield sits at 2.91%, which is meaningful given free cash flow grew 54.71% year over year in the most recent quarter.

Notably, the stock is cheaper today than it was six months ago. Shares are down 34.28% year to date and 18.56% in the last week alone, with the price sitting well below the 200-day moving average of $537.40. The 1,428% run happened. The post-run digestion is happening right now.

Forward Catalyst: A Pure-Play Ad Tech Machine The Q1 2026 report was the clearest evidence yet that the AXON 2 engine is compounding. Revenue hit $1.84 billion, up 24.15% year over year, and operating income more than doubled to $1.44 billion. Management guided Q2 revenue to $1.915 billion to $1.945 billion with adjusted EBITDA margins of 84% to 85%. Those are software-company margins on an advertising business.

The June 2025 divestiture of the Apps business to Tripledot Studios for $400M in cash plus roughly 20% equity made AppLovin a pure-play ad tech company. That matters because the direct competitor, The Trade Desk (NASDAQ:TTD), is going the other way. Trade Desk’s Q1 revenue growth decelerated to 11.82%, margins compressed, and the stock is down 77.51% over the same three-year window. AppLovin is taking share.

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The August 5, 2026 Q2 earnings report is the next hard catalyst. Analysts carry an average price target of $654.60, with 29 buy or strong-buy ratings versus 3 holds and zero sells.

Risk and Entry: What Downside Looks Like From Here The downside case runs through beta and expectations. AppLovin’s beta of 2.48 means broad market weakness hits this stock roughly two and a half times harder. The 52-week range of $343.00 to $745.61 shows how violent both directions can be. A miss on August 5 or softer Q3 guidance could easily retest the $343 low. That is a real risk for a retirement-focused investor.

Sentiment sits in neutral territory, with a composite score of 56.84 and a 30-day trend down 7.66 points. That is actually constructive: it means the froth has come out. The balance sheet backs the case, with $2.76 billion in cash, net debt to EBITDA of 0.24, and $1.0 billion returned via buybacks in Q1 alone.

The Verdict There is still time. The 1,428% move belongs to earlier buyers, but AppLovin is now a lower-priced, higher-quality, pure-play ad tech leader trading below its 200-day average while a diminished competitor validates the thesis by losing ground. Investors weighing entry may want to consider the August 5 earnings report as the next binary catalyst, sized appropriately for a beta-2.48 stock amplifying any reaction.

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Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.

Dangerous. Brazen. Unprecedented. Uncharted territory.

Reaction in the media world has been swift and severe to the issue of subpoenas to five New York Times journalists who reported on security questions involving the new, Qatari-gifted Air Force One — a legal maneuver seen as a troubling escalation of the Trump administration’s campaign to control and intimidate independent media outlets.

“The subpoenas are an extraordinary escalation in President Trump’s efforts to threaten and intimidate independent news organizations, and have a chilling effect on the work of journalists across the country,” said Jodie Ginsberg of the Committee to Protect Journalists.

Media advocates and analysts expressed dismay at the tactic, even after months in which news organizations drawing President Donald Trump’s ire have been attacked both in courtrooms and in the court of public opinion; media access to corridors of power has been blocked; and a Washington journalist’s home has been searched by federal agents.

“They have used the levers of power to intimidate and demonize professional journalists who report stories that are unfavorable to the administration’s desired narrative,” said Frank Sesno, a former CNN White House bureau chief who is now a media and public affairs professor at George Washington University.

He called Friday’s subpoenas “dangerous and uncharted territory, but merely an extension of what we have seen from this administration and president.”

“Don’t like a poll? Sue the Des Moines Register. Don’t like the way an interview is edited? Sue ’60 Minutes.’ Don’t like the coverage of the gifted Air Force One? Order the FBI to investigate and subpoena the journalists for what is, by the way, a story that is in the public interest.”

Some of the subpoenas were delivered to reporters at homeSome of the subpoenas were delivered to reporters at their homes, the Times said. Sought by Jay Clayton, the U.S. Attorney in Manhattan, they seek to force the reporters to testify before a federal grand jury in Manhattan this week.

The new jet in question, a present from Qatar that the administration spent $400 million to retrofit and upgrade, entered service last week. But Trump used an older model Air Force One jet to leave a NATO summit in Turkey.

The Times, citing anonymous sources, reported the switch had come at the urging of the Secret Service, and that the newer plane lacked some of the advanced security features of the older aircraft, including antimissile capabilities. On social media, Trump denied security concerns.

The subpoenas were issued after FBI Director Kash Patel and other Justice Department officials met at the White House on Friday to talk about the matter, according to a person familiar with the discussions who was not authorized to discuss the issue publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity. The Times said the meeting lasted around eight hours.

The fact that the operation was conducted from the White House itself was particularly egregious to analysts like Sesno, who called the coordination “unprecedented.”

“This graphically illustrates the pressure and influence the White House and president have brought to bear on law enforcement that is supposed to be independent and driven by facts, not politics,” he said.

The National Press Club called on the Justice Department “to immediately withdraw these subpoenas and reaffirm a principle that has long distinguished the United States: a free and independent press serves the people, not the government.”

“Every American should understand what is at stake,” Mark Schoeff Jr., the club’s president, said in a statement. “When federal agents arrive at the homes of journalists with subpoenas, it is not ordinary law enforcement. It is an extraordinary assault on the freedom of the press that strikes at the heart of the First Amendment.”

Trump’s animosity toward news outlets whose agenda runs counter to his own isn’t new. But in his second presidential term, he has launched an escalation, often harnessing the levers of the federal government or attempting to do so. These efforts has taken place both in actual courtrooms and in the court of public opinion.

The president has sued various news organizations whose coverage he dislikes. He has also threatened to revoke TV broadcast licenses. His FCC chairman is seeking to penalize shows like ABC’s “The View,” where some hosts speak out against Trump, by having the FCC explore revoking its exemption from equal-time rules.

The legal skirmishes include an escalating dispute between the media and Trump’s Defense Department over reporters’ access to the Pentagon. The Times has filed two lawsuits over a policy requiring journalists to be accompanied by escorts at the military complex.

The White House has also battled with The Associated Press over the news organization’s refusal to follow Trump’s executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico. And it has battled with The Wall Street Journal over reporting about Jeffrey Epstein and his ties to the president — including an article that described a sexually suggestive letter that the newspaper said bore Trump’s signature.

Last month, the Justice Department issued and then withdrew subpoenas that sought to compel reporters at The Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal to testify before a grand jury, according to people familiar with the matter.

The Post confirmed that one of its journalists received a subpoena from the Trump administration as part of a broader crackdown on media leaks that in January also included the extraordinary step of an FBI search of the home of another journalist at the newspaper and the seizure of her electronic devices. The media world was stunned by the search of the home of reporter Hannah Natanson, who was covering Trump’s transformation of the federal government,

The Times is now gearing up for battle against what its lawyer, David McCraw, has called “this brazen act.”

In an internal memo seen by the AP, the paper’s executive editor, Joseph Kahn, criticized the subpoenas and said: “We expect to prevail. We have the best legal team in the business. … The law protects news gatherers from this sort of retaliatory abuse of prosecutorial power. It is essential that the courts reaffirm that protection and quash this overreach. We are confident they will in this case.”

Kahn praised the work of the five journalists — Tyler Pager, Eric Schmitt, Eric Lipton, Adam Goldman and Julian Barnes — and said they should know “that all of us as their colleagues, and the full resources of The Times, are behind them and that we will fight this legal abuse together.”

Jocelyn Noveck covers the intersection of media and entertainment for The Associated Press.

Join us in New York City this September for the annual Fast Company Innovation Festival. Advanced-rate tickets are available now through Sunday, July 12. Grab your festival passes today.

, /PRNewswire/ -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of Commvault Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CVLT).

Shareholders who purchased shares of CVLT during the class period listed are encouraged to contact the firm regarding possible lead plaintiff appointment. Appointment as lead plaintiff is not required to partake in any recovery.

CONTACT US HERE:

https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/commvault-systems-inc-loss-submission-form/?id=193572&from=4

CLASS PERIOD: January 28, 2025 to January 26, 2026

ALLEGATIONS: According to the complaint, defendants provided overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Commvault's ARR growth environment; pertinently, Commvault knew or recklessly disregarded that the Company's ARR growth guidance failed to properly factor in crucial variables, such as the type of sale. On January 27, 2026, Commvault published third quarter 2026 fiscal results, which included ARR growth below the guidance provided by the Company. In particular, ARR growth for the third quarter 2026 was $39 million, which fell short of the $45 million projection provided. Following this news, the price of Commvault's common stock declined dramatically. From a closing market price of $129.36 per share on January 26, 2026, Commvault's stock price fell to $89.13 per share on January 27, 2026, a decline of over 31% in a single day.

DEADLINE: July 17, 2026 Shareholders should not delay in registering for this class action. Register your information here: https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/commvault-systems-inc-loss-submission-form/?id=193572&from=4

NEXT STEPS FOR SHAREHOLDERS: Once you register as a shareholder who purchased shares of CVLT during the timeframe listed above, you will be enrolled in a portfolio monitoring software to provide you with status updates throughout the lifecycle of the case. The deadline to seek to be a lead plaintiff is July 17, 2026. There is no cost or obligation to you to participate in this case.

WHY GROSS LAW FIRM? The Gross Law Firm is a nationally recognized class action law firm, and our mission is to protect the rights of all investors who have suffered as a result of deceit, fraud, and illegal business practices. The Gross Law Firm is committed to ensuring that companies adhere to responsible business practices and engage in good corporate citizenship. The firm seeks recovery on behalf of investors who incurred losses when false and/or misleading statements or the omission of material information by a company lead to artificial inflation of the company's stock. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:
The Gross Law Firm
15 West 38th Street, 12th floor
New York, NY, 10018
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (646) 453-8903

SOURCE The Gross Law Firm

Columbia Threadneedle Investments today announced the launch of two new actively managed exchange traded funds (ETFs) that seek high income while maintaining e

It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.

The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.

It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.

What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.

Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.

The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:

Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.

Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.

VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.

Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.

The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.

For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.

Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.

Stock to Watch: AutoNation (AN - Free Report) AutoNation, Inc. is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States. In addition to retailing new and used vehicles, the company provides maintenance and repair services, collision repair, wholesale parts, and a range of finance and insurance products. AutoNation also arranges vehicle financing through third-party sources and provides indirect financing through its captive auto finance company.

AN is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.

Momentum investors should take note of this Retail-Wholesale stock. AN has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 0% over the past four weeks.

For fiscal 2026, four analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.12 to $21.35 per share. AN boasts an average earnings surprise of +5.6%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, AN should be on investors' short list.

NEW YORK, July 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Loews Corporation (NYSE: L) will report second quarter 2026 financial results on Monday, August 3, 2026.

On that date the Company will also post earnings remarks on its website. These remarks will include commentary from the Company's Chief Executive Officer, Ben Tisch, and Chief Financial Officer, Jane Wang.

The news release and earnings remarks will be available online at the Loews Corporation website (www.loews.com).

About Loews Corporation

Loews Corporation is a diversified company with businesses in the insurance, energy, hospitality, and packaging industries. For more information, please visit www.loews.com.

SOURCE Loews Corporation

The market expects Atlantic Union (AUB - Free Report) to deliver a year-over-year decline in earnings on lower revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended June 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.

The earnings report, which is expected to be released on July 21, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.

While management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call will mostly determine the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations, it's worth having a handicapping insight into the odds of a positive EPS surprise.

Zacks Consensus EstimateThis holding company for Atlantic Union Bank is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.92 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -3.2%.

Revenues are expected to be $394.98 million, down 3% from the year-ago quarter.

Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.

Investors should keep in mind that the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts may not always get reflected in the aggregate change.

Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise

Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.

A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.

Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).

How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Atlantic Union?For Atlantic Union, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -0.81%.

On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.

So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Atlantic Union will beat the consensus EPS estimate.

Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.

For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Atlantic Union would post earnings of $0.88 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.89, delivering a surprise of +1.14%.

Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates three times.

Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.

That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Atlantic Union doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.

An Industry Player's Expected ResultsAnother stock from the Zacks Banks - Northeast industry, Independent Bank Corp. (INDB - Free Report) , is soon expected to post earnings of $1.77 per share for the quarter ended June 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +41.6%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $257.73 million, up 41.8% from the year-ago quarter.

The consensus EPS estimate for Independent Bank Corp. has been revised 0.9% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. However, a higher Most Accurate Estimate has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +0.94%.

When combined with a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold), this Earnings ESP indicates that Independent Bank Corp. will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.

Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.

SARASOTA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Helios Technologies' (NYSE: HLIO) Electronics Segment Expands Support Across Briggs & Stratton Ecosystem.

Fifth Third Bank (NYSE: FITB) has been named Best Treasury and Cash Management Bank in the United States by Global Finance as part of the publication's 2026 Tr

Begins multi-year transformation of the end-to-end guest journey, setting a new standard for the modern ski experience across its network of premier mountain destinations Raises the bar on mountain food with significant investment to elevate its most popular dishes Launches Epic Ascent for an enhanced private lesson experience with concierge services, white-glove gear rental and high-touch customer support , /PRNewswire/ -- Vail Resorts CEO Rob Katz today announced a new era for the company defined by delivering the best and most differentiated guest experience in skiing and riding. Anchored to the belief that future growth will come by offering an exceptional experience that drives loyalty and visitation, the Epic Experience vision spans a multi-year roadmap that comes with a series of immediate investments in food, lessons, gear, guest engagement and talent. Most notably, new next season, Vail Resorts will raise the bar on mountain food with a significant investment to elevate its most popular dishes, and introduce Epic Ascent to enhance private lessons with concierge services.

Skiers in Vail Mountain's Legendary Back Bowls. "For years, Vail Resorts focused on building the Epic Pass model and expanding its resort network," said Katz. "That strategy helped establish the company's position today, but the Pass and acquisitions were not the end goal. The next chapter of growth for Vail Resorts is about delivering a guest experience that undeniably leads the ski industry and is best in class in the travel sector. Epic Experience is about using the strength of our integrated model and leveraging our scale and technology to make every part of the mountain journey more seamless, personalized and memorable."

As the world's largest and only fully integrated ski resort company, Vail Resorts has consistently led the industry in innovation and is uniquely positioned to influence every part of the end-to-end guest journey across its network of premier mountain destinations.

"Exceptional experience is not one moment – it is the standard we want guests to feel across their entire journey. From the food, lessons and gear that shape a day on the mountain to how we communicate with and support our guests, we are focused on removing friction, elevating the experience and creating more moments that inspire guests to return."

Throughout its transformation of the guest experience, Vail Resorts will continue to prioritize delivering an incredible experience on snow. The company will maintain its industry-leading investments in lift infrastructure to help guests get up and around the mountain faster, while taking an aggressive approach to snowmaking strategy and technology to create the best possible early-season and in-season conditions for guests.

Beyond the snow experience, Vail Resorts will focus on the five experience pillars outlined below to drive future growth.

Reimagining Rentals with My Epic Gear
Vail Resorts is continuing its previously announced plans to integrate the best features from My Epic Gear® into traditional gear rentals, as part of a multi-year effort to transform the gear experience for all skiers and riders.

Beginning this season, guests who book high-performance Demo rentals at the company's rental outlets across 12 participating resorts will receive the curated My Epic Gear experience without the membership fee. That includes the ability to select their preferred ski or snowboard model, and BOA® ski boots or Step On® bindings, online, ahead of their arrival.

Ahead of the 2027/28 winter season, Vail Resorts' rental outlets will offer expanded and upgraded gear and service options, which will include the ability for anyone to choose a specific gear model – online or in app. Returning guests will have the ability to get their skis or snowboards fully teched, tuned and ready for pickup or delivery, without going through an in-store fitting process. Other future offerings include slopeside valet and digital enhancements for easier browsing and booking.

Elevating Lessons into Personalized Mountain Experiences
Vail Resorts is redesigning its private lesson experiences to be more personalized and seamless for every guest. This winter at Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek, the company will upgrade all private lessons to Epic Ascent, an elevated private lesson experience offering concierge services, white-glove gear rental and enhanced customer support.

Private-lesson guests will get high-touch customer support and a dedicated concierge to coordinate every detail of their overall trip, like dining reservations, transportation coordination and white-glove gear rental. Epic Ascent will expand across more Vail Resorts mountain destinations in the 2027/28 season. More information on Epic Ascent will be shared ahead of the upcoming season.

In parallel, Vail Resorts is further simplifying the pathway to progression with connected ski and ride school in the My Epic app by expanding from four to 14 resorts. A first-of-its-kind digitized offering, ski and ride school in the My Epic app offers guests in group lessons a seamless arrival with direct-to-lesson digital check-in. It helps parents stay connected with real-time updates and photos during child lessons, and monitor progression with skills tracking that includes badges for milestones achieved.

Setting a Higher Standard for Guest Engagement
Vail Resorts is committed to delivering a guest service experience that feels more thoughtful, responsive and connected at every step of the journey. The company's ambition is to make every interaction and communication feel easier, more personal and more supportive – so guests feel confident, cared for and inspired to return. This commitment reflects the belief that an exceptional experience is not a single moment, but a consistent standard that shapes the entire trip.

Supporting this focus on guest engagement are continued investments in digital technology to remove the small hassles that get in the way of enjoying the magic of the mountains. Starting this fall, guests will be able to purchase Passes and lift tickets, as well as share Epic Friend Tickets with friends and family, directly in the My Epic app. Guests can also expect the introduction of Apple Pay and Google Pay, while continuing to enjoy favorite features like Mobile Pass, lift line wait times, Find My Friends and personalized stats.

Ahead of the 2027/28 season, guests will be able to purchase lessons and rentals directly in the My Epic app. Future app enhancements will leverage modern AI to support intuitive trip planning and surface intelligent personalized recommendations and itineraries – from parking and lessons to lunch, après and more.

Raising the Bar on Mountain Food
Skiing and snowboarding are about the full on-mountain experience, and food is a critical part of a memorable day on the slopes. As Vail Resorts embarks on a journey to elevate dining on the mountains, the company is making its most popular menu items better across 15 destination resorts. Ski-day classics like chili, burgers, pizza, fries, hot dogs, chicken fingers, and mac and cheese – which make up the majority of resort food sales – are all getting elevated with a significant investment in higher-quality ingredients and refined presentation. For instance, guests across 15 destination resorts can enjoy a butcher's blend burger with melted New School American Cheese and pecan-smoked bacon on a griddled brioche bun, served with crispy waffle fries and a signature comeback sauce.

Next season, skiers and riders will continue to see chef-driven dishes that bring fresh energy and flavor to each mountain experience. Resorts like Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Whistler Blackcomb will continue to focus on the development of unique signature dishes that reflect the energy, culture and character of each resort.

More information will be shared in the coming months. The food improvements next season will not come with higher prices, beyond normal inflation. In addition to elevated food, the company will be looking to add new technology and processes to reduce wait times and increase seating capacity. 

Investing in Top Talent to Drive Excellent Guest Service
Vail Resorts is committed to making every interaction easier and more personal by elevating its ability to anticipate and exceed guests' expectations. Delivering an exceptional guest experience starts with excellent people, who will always be the foundation of the company.

Following a $175 million investment in wages and benefits, the company has continued to build a world-class frontline team through a disciplined, technology-enabled approach to recruiting, staffing and scheduling. These investments have helped the company remain fully staffed each season, become more selective in hiring for guest-service orientation, increase seasonal employee return rates and give employees more hours while reducing overall hiring and housing pressure. This is collectively translating to better service, with frontline teams serving as a key driver of record guest satisfaction scores last season.

IMAGES are available for media use here.

About Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN)
Vail Resorts is a network of the best destination and close-to-home ski resorts in the world including Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, Park City Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb, Stowe, and 32 additional resorts across North America; Andermatt-Sedrun and Crans-Montana Mountain Resort in Switzerland; and Perisher, Hotham, and Falls Creek in Australia – all available on the company's industry-changing Epic Pass. We are passionate about providing an Experience of a Lifetime to our team members and guests, and our EpicPromise is to reach a zero net operating footprint by 2030, support our employees and communities, and broaden engagement in our sport. Our company owns and/or manages a collection of elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, a portfolio of vacation rentals, condominiums and branded hotels located in close proximity to our mountain destinations, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Retail operates more than 250 retail and rental locations across North America. Learn more about our company at www.VailResorts.com, or discover our resorts and Pass options at www.EpicPass.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements discussed in this press release, other than statements of historical information, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements regarding the Company's expectations and assumptions related to future performance; guest experience; investments in and enhancements to food, lessons, gear, guest engagement, people, products, services, and other offerings; opportunities; key initiatives; and strategies. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to our ability to execute on our key initiatives and strategies; risks related to a prolonged weakness in general economic conditions, including adverse effects on the overall travel and leisure related industries and our business and results of operations; the willingness or ability of our guests to travel due to terrorism, the uncertainty of military conflicts or public health emergencies, and the cost and availability of travel options and changing consumer preferences, discretionary spending habits; risks related to travel and airline disruptions, and other adverse impacts on the ability of our guests to travel; our ability to acquire, develop and implement relevant technology offerings for customers and partners; the seasonality of our business combined with adverse events that may occur during our peak operating periods; competition in our mountain and lodging businesses or with other recreational and leisure activities; risks related to resource efficiency transformation initiatives; risks related to changes in security and privacy laws and regulations which could increase our operating costs and adversely affect our ability to market our products, properties and services effectively; potential failure to adapt to technological developments or industry trends regarding information technology; our ability to successfully launch and promote adoption of new products, technology, services and programs; risks related to our workforce, including increased labor costs, loss of key personnel and our ability to maintain adequate staffing, including hiring and retaining a sufficient seasonal workforce; and the risks detailed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

SOURCE The Vail Corporation

NEW YORK, July 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SueWallSt reminds purchasers of Peabody Energy Corporation (NYSE: BTU) securities of a pending securities class action. Jefferies maintained its Buy rating even Peabody slashed first quarter Centurion output expectations by 64% on March 30, 2026. UBS titled its response "Centurion ramp-up challenges now resolved." Both firms accepted management's framing that the issues were temporary and contained. Neither had reason to suspect the full scope of what the May 5, 2026 earnings call would reveal: 8-year-old unused equipment failing under load, roof integrity deteriorating from moisture accumulation, floor softening beneath misaligned shields, and a 1-million-ton cut to full-year met segment guidance. The analysts who covered BTU built their models on company assurances that proved, according to a securities class action, to be materially misleading.

Investors who purchased BTU stock between October 14, 2024 and May 4, 2026 and suffered losses may be eligible for recovery. Check if you might be eligible to recover your investment losses or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. at [email protected] or (888) SueWallSt.

BTU shares fell from a Class Period high of $39.50 to $25.00, a total decline of $14.50 per share (36.7%). The lead plaintiff deadline is August 24, 2026.

Initial Analyst Optimism Built on Company Guidance

Sell-side coverage of Peabody Energy through late 2025 and into early 2026 reflected a consensus built directly on management's repeated assurances. The complaint details how executives told investors on October 14, 2024 that Centurion was advancing "on time and on budget" toward full longwall production in March 2026. By the July 31, 2025 earnings call, management announced the timeline had actually accelerated to February 2026, and by the February 5, 2026 earnings call, management projected an NPV of $2.1 billion for the asset. Analysts incorporated these statements into price targets and earnings models that assumed 3.5 million tons of Centurion shipments for 2026 and met coal costs of $113 per tonne.

The Downgrades Begin

The March 30, 2026 Regulation FD filing reduced Q1 Centurion output from 700,000 tons to 250,000 tons, citing vague "mining commissioning challenges." Analysts noted the shortfall but largely accepted management's narrative. Jefferies observed the miss "stems from 'greater-than-expected mine commissioning challenges'" but maintained its Buy rating, as alleged in the complaint. UBS concluded challenges were "now resolved" and that "no material geology/geotechnical issues have been observed." BTU fell 9.7% that day, yet Wall Street lacked the information necessary to fully reassess the stock because, the lawsuit contends, Peabody withheld critical details about the scope and cause of the failures.

Execution Concerns Intensified on May 5, 2026

The second corrective disclosure changed the analyst calculus entirely:

Full-year Centurion shipments cut from 3.5 million tons to 2.5 million tonsMet segment cost guidance increased from $113 to $123-$133 per tonQ1 actual met coal costs reported at $142 per ton, 25.7% above original guidanceMet segment recorded an adjusted EBITDA loss of $7 million, reduced by $80 million from the Centurion ramp-up failureEquipment that had been unused for 8 years failed under full underground load conditionsRoof control problems and floor softening required ongoing remediation with no firm resolution date BTU dropped an additional 5.7% on this disclosure. The gap between what analysts had modeled and what Peabody actually delivered reflected, according to the action, the distance between the company's public assurances and operational reality.

Why Analyst Shifts Matter for BTU Investors

"When analyst expectations are built on incomplete or misleading company disclosures, the resulting corrections can cause significant investor harm. The evolution of Wall Street coverage on Peabody Energy illustrates how misleading corporate statements can distort market pricing until the truth forces a reassessment." -- Joseph E. Levi, Esq.

Sell-side analysts function as information intermediaries. When they receive inaccurate or incomplete guidance from a company, their models transmit that misinformation into stock prices through target prices and ratings. BTU investors who purchased shares at prices reflecting analyst optimism built on allegedly false management statements suffered direct harm when successive corrective disclosures forced analysts to revise their assumptions downward.

Learn more about the case or call Joseph E. Levi, Esq. at (888) SueWallSt.

WHY SUEWALLST: SueWallSt is powered by Levi & Korsinsky LLP. Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions About the BTU Lawsuit

Q: What is the BTU class action lawsuit about? A: A securities class action has been filed against Peabody Energy Corporation (NYSE: BTU) alleging materially false and misleading statements between October 14, 2024 and May 4, 2026 regarding the timeline and viability of the Centurion mine ramp-up. Shares fell approximately 36.7% after the truth was revealed, causing significant losses for shareholders.

Q: How much did BTU stock drop? A: Shares fell approximately 36.7%, a decline of $14.50 per share, after the company disclosed the full scope of Centurion mine commissioning failures and cut full-year met segment guidance by 1 million tons. Investors who purchased shares during the class period at artificially inflated prices may be entitled to compensation.

Q: What specific misstatements does the BTU lawsuit allege? A: The complaint alleges Peabody Energy made materially false or misleading statements regarding the Centurion mine being "on time and on budget" for a March 2026 ramp-up, while concealing that 8-year-old unused equipment was experiencing mechanical and electrical failures and that roof control and floor softening problems were emerging underground.

Q: What do BTU investors need to do right now? A: Investors may gather brokerage records showing purchase dates, share quantities, and prices paid. Contact SueWallSt, a brand of Levi & Korsinsky LLP, for a no-cost, no-obligation case evaluation at [email protected] or (212) 363-7500. No immediate action is required to remain eligible as an absent class member.

Q: What if I already sold my BTU shares -- can I still recover losses? A: Yes. Eligibility is based on when you purchased, not whether you still hold them. Investors who bought during the class period and sold at a loss may still participate.

Q: Do I need to go to court or give testimony? A: No. The overwhelming majority of class members never appear in court or give depositions. You submit a claim form to receive your portion of recovery.

Q: What does it cost me to participate? A: Nothing. Securities class actions are handled on a pure contingency basis. No upfront fees, no retainer, no out-of-pocket costs.

Q: Can I join a different law firm's lawsuit instead? A: Multiple firms often file competing complaints. The court consolidates and appoints a single lead counsel. Contacting Levi & Korsinsky before August 24, 2026 ensures your losses are considered.

CONTACT:
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
Joseph E. Levi, Esq.
33 Whitehall Street, 27th Floor
New York, NY 10004
[email protected]
Tel: (888) SueWallSt
Fax: (212) 363-7171

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.        

Po většinu minulého roku vládlo ohledně AI hlavně nadšení, pak se situace začala měnit. Postupně sílily úvahy o tom, nakolik a zda vůbec se investice do této technologie zaplatí. Letos tento trend postupuje a rozšiřuje se. Přiživuje ho i to, že AI investiční plány jsou stále méně pokrývány tím, co velké technologické společnosti samy vydělají. A stále více jsou potřeba vnější zdroje – nové akcie, dluhopisy. A celý investiční příběh se výrazně mění.

Určitá AI dominance je již nějakou dobu znát na akciovém trhu. Tedy na to, jak moc celým trhem hýbe přímo, či nepřímo umělá inteligence a příběhy, které se kolem ní točí. S tím, jak si hypercaleři říkají o stálě více peněz, se tato dominace začíná přelévat i jinam. Následující graf ukazuje, jak roste objem jimi vydávaných dluhopisů:

Zdroj: X

Hyperscaleři tedy nyní vydávají asi 9 % všech obligací s investičním ratingem. Z hlediska celkové zásoby nejde o dominanci, zatím ani z hlediska toku. Ale také nejde o žádný detail. A s tím, jak budou investice těchto společností podle očekávání dál dosahovat mimořádně vysokých částek, se dá čekat, že AI téma bude stále znát i na trzích mimo akcie. Tedy i AI rizika a nejistoty. Zda to dojde do stadia široké AI dominance bude záležet na tom, jakého objemu ony investice nakonec dosáhnou.

Situace se ale cyklí – obejm investic bude obratem záviset na tom, co si budou o prospektu AI myslet investoři. To, že hypercaleři už nejsou schopni finacovat své AI plány jen z vnitřních zdrojů, totiž znamená, že o jejich plánech budou stále více rozhodovat třetí strany. Tedy ochota investorů je financovat. Klíčovou proměnou se tak (i v tomo ohledu) stávají ceny akcií a na dluhopisových trzích rzikové spready. U dluhopisů s investičním ratingem v poslední době dochází k určitému růstu této ceny za riziko, ale nejde o žádný extrém.

V rámci určitého širšího rámce bych připomněl, že před rokem 2020 se často hovořilo o v podstatě celosvětové „dlouhodobé stagnaci“ (secular stagnation není stagnací sekulární, světskou, ale dlouhodobou). Jádrem tohoto konceptu je slabá agregátní poptávka (relativně k nabídce) projevující se dezinflací a nízkými sazbami. Respektive cenou úspor. Což je přímým dorazem toho, že nabídka úspor převyšuje poptávku po nich.

Dá se samozřejmě diskutovat o tom, zda taková situace skutečně převládala, najdou se zajímavé argumenty pro i proti. Pokud ale přijmeme, že ekonomika se do nemalé míry v této parciální rovnováze nacházela, dal by se současný AI investiční boom vnímat jako docela jasná tečka za dlouhodobou stagnací. V tom smyslu, že tento boom definitivně eliminuje převis (zamýšlených) úspor nad jejich využitím. Je to samozřejmě jen jinak uchopená diskuse o tom, co AI udělá se sazbami:

Na nominální úrovni by se v případě AI úspěchu a prudce rostoucí produktivitě mohly střetávat dezifnlační tlaky s růstem reálných sazeb (ceny úspor). V případě AI neúspěchu by pak významnou roli mohly hrát rizikové spready – viz výše.

U.S. retail construction activity remained relatively steady in the second quarter of 2026, according to data from [url="]CoStar[/url], the leading global prov

Data centers receive sharp criticism for their high water usage, but the impact on the broader water industry and for investors is also about infrastructure bottlenecks, regulation, and emerging technologies, among other things. Utilities companies must navigate significant changes when hyperscalers enter their territory—in some cases, a new data center operator may immediately become one of the largest customers in the region. All types of water infrastructure providers, from treatment plants to pipeline operators to storage and more, face new capacity challenges.

The landscape is shifting quickly as regulation struggles to catch up with new investments and new companies, and even geographies emerge as potential winners. For investors, one of the safer ways to approach the water industry in the time of AI is via exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which may help to distribute some of the risk and provide broader access to the sector. However, not all water ETFs are the same, and investors might start their search with proven winners like the funds below.

Get PHO alerts:

A Play on Potable and Wastewater Remains Niche for NowFirst Trust Water ETF Today

FIW

First Trust Water ETF

$107.46 -0.03 (-0.03%)

As of 10:44 AM Eastern

52-Week Range$98.52▼

$116.30Dividend Yield0.72%

Assets Under Management$1.83 billion

A modified market cap-weighted fund, the First Trust Water ETF NYSEARCA: FIW has a special focus on the potable and wastewater industries. Companies in the portfolio must be of a sufficient size and must have adequate liquidity, among other factors. The result is a streamlined basket of around three dozen stocks with no single name accounting for more than about 5% of the portfolio. Despite its relatively niche approach, therefore, FIW is not as highly concentrated as investors might expect.

Potable water and wastewater may not seem like exciting areas of investment, but these spaces could become increasingly important globally as climate change, shifting populations, and other stressors put strains on existing systems. Data center usage may exacerbate or accelerate the issue.

Still, for now, FIW is a specialized fund with a fitting level of engagement among investors: it has an asset base of around $1.8 billion and modest trading volumes, on average. Because many of the holdings of this fund are in the utilities sector, which is known for dividends, the fund does pay a dividend yield of 0.72%. Still, the fund's year-to-date (YTD) performance has not matched the broader market, and given FIW's 0.50% expense ratio, this may be a dealbreaker for investors who do not anticipate water industry spending to increase.

A Generalized Water Fund, But Investors Should Watch for Diversification and FeesInvesco Water Resources ETF Today

PHO

Invesco Water Resources ETF

$68.66 -0.24 (-0.35%)

As of 11:03 AM Eastern

52-Week Range$63.54▼

$74.93Dividend Yield0.58%

Assets Under Management$1.98 billion

The Invesco Water Resources ETF NASDAQ: PHO is the largest and most heavily traded fund on this list, although its assets under management (AUM) still hover at around $2 billion, and its average trading volumes are modest compared to many funds in other areas. One reason for the appeal of PHO is that it takes a generalist approach, including many different types of water industry companies. Investors can use this for easy access to water utilities, infrastructure, equipment, materials, and many other types of firms.

That said, PHO is not the most diversified fund, with only 40 total positions in its basket of U.S. equities. This means that a handful of companies, including Ecolab Inc. NYSE: ECL and IDEXX Laboratories Inc. NASDAQ: IDXX, carry mid- to high-single-digit allocations, leaving the fund heavily exposed to a relatively small group of companies. The top 10 positions represent well over half of invested assets, making PHO susceptible to volatility in its biggest names. On top of this, the fund has a relatively high expense ratio of 0.59%, which may dissuade cost-conscious investors.

Another Broad Option, But Concentration Remains a ConcernInvesco S&P Global Water Index ETF Today

CGW

Invesco S&P Global Water Index ETF

$65.79 +0.50 (+0.77%)

As of 10:34 AM Eastern

52-Week Range$61.20▼

$68.92Dividend Yield1.50%

Assets Under Management$1.06 billion

Coming in just one basis point cheaper than PHO, with an expense ratio of 0.58%, is the Invesco S&P Global Water Index ETF NYSEARCA: CGW. This fund also has a broad approach within the water industry, including a variety of companies dealing with infrastructure, utilities, equipment, materials, and more. Its portfolio is broader than PHO's on the one hand, with 67 positions. However, the largest few stocks making up CGW's collection also have high allocations of just under 8% each, so concentration may be a determining factor for investors.

With a dividend yield of 1.52% and YTD returns better than both of the ETFs above, CGW may appeal based on its recent performance in particular. Still, like the other funds on this list, CGW is likely to be most attractive to investors expecting that shifting demand and usage trends for water will contribute to more business for companies already involved in the industry.

Should You Invest $1,000 in Invesco Water Resources ETF Right Now?Before you consider Invesco Water Resources ETF, you'll want to hear this.

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Key Takeaways RLI is expanding through product diversification and broader distribution to drive premium growth. RLI has delivered 30 consecutive years of underwriting profitability, supported by conservative underwriting. RLI has paid dividends for 198 straight quarters and increased regular dividends for 50 consecutive years.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

RLI shares have lost 12% in the past year against the industry’s return of 6.6%.

With a market capitalization of $5.65 billion, the average volume of shares traded in the last three months was 0.9 million.

RLI Trading Above 50-Day and 200-Day Moving AveragesShares of RLI closed at $61.46 and are trading above the 50-day and 200-day simple moving averages (SMAs) at $53.44 and $59.14, respectively, indicating solid upward momentum. SMA is a widely used technical analysis tool to predict future price trends by analyzing historical price data.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

RLI’s Growth Projection EncouragesThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for RLI’s 2026 revenues is pegged at $1.83 billion, implying a year-over-year improvement of 3.2%. 
The consensus estimate for 2027 earnings per share and revenues indicates an increase of 0.6% and 3%, respectively, from the corresponding 2026 estimates.

RLI’s Favorable Return on CapitalRLI’s return on equity (ROE) has also been improving over the last few quarters, reflecting its efficiency in utilizing shareholders’ funds. The trailing 12 months ROE was 17.7%, which compared favorably with the industry average of 7.4%.

Average Target Price for RLI Suggests UpsideBased on short-term price targets offered by five analysts, the Zacks average price target is $64 per share. The average suggests a potential 5.5% upside from the last closing price.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Factors Acting in Favor of RLIRLI continues to grow through product diversification. Its compelling product portfolio, focus on introducing new products, re-underwriting of several of its products, sturdy business expansion, sustained rate increase and expanded distribution position this insurer well to generate an improved top line.

A conservative underwriting and reserving policy helps RLI achieve favorable reserve releases from the prior years despite incurring catastrophe losses.

RLI is one of the industry’s most profitable P&C writers, with an impressive track record of delivering 29 consecutive years of underwriting profitability.

This insurer has been enhancing shareholders' value by distributing wealth in the form of dividend hikes, special dividends and share buybacks. It boasts an impressive dividend track record. It has paid dividends for 198 consecutive quarters and increased regular dividends in each of the last 50 years, making the stock an attractive pick for yield-seeking investors.

The insurer has been strengthening its balance sheet by improving liquidity and leverage. A sound capital structure helps it meet the interests of its policyholders, enhance operations in the insurance sector and drive its book value for the long term.

End NotesRLI is one of the industry’s most profitable P&C writers, with an impressive track record of delivering 30 consecutive years of underwriting profitability. A strong local branch office network, a broad range of product offerings, and a focus on specialty insurance lines should continue to contribute to its superior profitability. The stock's impressive dividend history makes it an attractive pick for yield-seeking investors.

Given its premium valuation, it is prudent to wait for a better entry point for this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.

The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.

Zacks Premium includes access to the Zacks Style Scores as well.

What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.

Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.

The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:

Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.

Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.

VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.

Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.

The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.

For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.

Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.

Stock to Watch: Evercore (EVR - Free Report) Headquartered in New York, Evercore Inc. is a premier global independent investment banking advisory firm. Founded in 1995, the company operates from its offices and affiliates in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

EVR is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.

It also boasts a Value Style Score of B thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 17.2; value investors should take notice.

Two analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.16 to $19.43 per share. EVR boasts an average earnings surprise of +30.2%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, EVR should be on investors' short list.

Investors in IDACORP, Inc. (IDA - Free Report) need to pay close attention to the stock based on moves in the options market lately. That is because the Aug 21, 2026 $180 Call had some of the highest implied volatility of all equity options today.

What is Implied Volatility?Implied volatility shows how much movement the market is expecting in the future. Options with high levels of implied volatility suggest that investors in the underlying stocks are expecting a big move in one direction or the other. It could also mean there is an event coming up soon that may cause a big rally or a huge sell-off. However, implied volatility is only one piece of the puzzle when putting together an options trading strategy.

What do the Analysts Think?Clearly, options traders are pricing in a big move for IDACORP shares, but what is the fundamental picture for the company? Currently, IDACORP is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) in the Utility - Electric Power industry that ranks in the Bottom 32% of our Zacks Industry Rank. Over the last 30 days, no analysts have increased their earnings estimates for the current quarter, while one analyst has revised the estimate downward. The net effect has taken our Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current quarter from $1.87 per share to $1.85 in that period.

Given the way analysts feel about IDACORP right now, this huge implied volatility could mean there’s a trade developing. Oftentimes, options traders look for options with high levels of implied volatility to sell premium. This is a strategy many seasoned traders use because it captures decay. At expiration, the hope for these traders is that the underlying stock does not move as much as originally expected.

Key Takeaways Wendy's is using Project Fresh to enhance menu quality, operations and customer satisfaction.WEN is growing digital sales with AI-powered recommendations and expanding its international footprint.Management expects improving execution and easing cost pressures to support margin recovery. The Wendy's Company (WEN - Free Report) continues to face margin headwinds, but management believes its comprehensive turnaround strategy, dubbed Project Fresh, could gradually improve profitability as the year unfolds. While first-quarter performance remained under pressure, executives pointed to encouraging operational improvements that could support both sales and margins over time.

During the quarter, U.S. company-operated restaurant margin fell to 11.4%, reflecting softer customer traffic, elevated beef costs, investments in food quality upgrades and labor inflation. Adjusted EBITDA also declined as the company stepped up spending on marketing, field support and international expansion. Despite these challenges, Wendy’s maintained its full-year outlook, signaling confidence that conditions will improve in the second half.

Project Fresh is central to that recovery. Wendy’s is upgrading the core menu with improved hamburger buns, enhanced condiments and a revamped spicy chicken sandwich while strengthening value offerings through its Biggie Deals platform. At the same time, WEN is focusing on cleaner restaurants, better order accuracy and enhanced employee training, areas where company-operated restaurants have already outperformed the broader system. Management believes stronger execution will increase customer satisfaction, encourage repeat visits and ultimately lift restaurant economics.

Digital initiatives are also contributing to the turnaround. U.S. digital sales increased, supported by AI-powered recommendations in the mobile app and continued investments in the digital ordering experience. Meanwhile, Wendy’s is expanding internationally, highlighted by a franchise agreement to develop up to 1,000 restaurants in China, providing an additional long-term growth avenue.

Although commodity inflation, especially beef costs and cautious consumer spending remain near-term risks, Wendy’s expects improving sales trends, better operational execution and easing cost pressures later in the year to support margin recovery. If Project Fresh continues to gain traction, the company could gradually rebuild profitability while laying the foundation for sustainable long-term growth.

Peers Are Also Balancing Costs With Operational ImprovementsWendy's turnaround efforts mirror broader trends across the quick-service restaurant industry, where operators are working to protect margins while navigating inflation and cautious consumer spending. McDonald's (MCD - Free Report) continues to focus on affordability through value offerings while leveraging its vast digital ecosystem, loyalty program and operational efficiencies to offset higher labor and commodity costs. Its scale and strong franchise network have helped McDonald's preserve profitability despite a challenging demand environment.

Restaurant Brands International (QSR - Free Report) , the parent of Burger King, is pursuing a similar strategy through its "Reclaim the Flame" initiative. The company is investing in restaurant modernization, improved operations and targeted marketing to strengthen guest traffic and franchisee economics. Menu innovation and digital expansion also remain as Restaurant Brands International's key priorities for driving profitable growth.

Compared with these rivals, Wendy's differentiates itself through Project Fresh, which combines menu quality upgrades, operational improvements and system optimization. While margin pressure remains in the near term, the successful execution of these initiatives could help Wendy's narrow the profitability gap with larger competitors over time.

WEN’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Wendy’s have dropped 31.6% in the past year compared with the industry’s 6.5% decline.

Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, WEN trades at a forward price-to-sales (P/S) multiple of 0.64, below the industry’s average of 3.37.

WEN’s P/S Ratio (Forward 12-Month) vs. Industry
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WEN’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) implies a year-over-year decline of 34.1%. The EPS estimates for 2026 have remained unchanged in the past 30 days.

EPS Trend of WEN Stock
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

WEN’s Zacks RankWEN stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).

You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. 

Key Takeaways AMKR trades at 2.06X forward P/S versus the industry's 9.33X despite strong share gains and growth drivers.AMKR expects advanced packaging revenues to roughly triple in 2026 as AI demand lifts computing growth.Amkor Technology is expanding in Arizona to boost U.S. advanced packaging with 2028 production targeted. Amkor Technology (AMKR - Free Report) trades at a forward 12-month Price/Sales (P/S) multiple of 2.06X compared with the Zacks Electronics-Semiconductors industry average of 9.33X and the Zacks Computer & Technology sector average of 6.98X. The valuation remains cheap despite AMKR's long-term growth opportunity being supported by rising demand for advanced packaging solutions from customers, such as Apple (AAPL - Free Report) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD - Free Report) .

AMKR’s P/S Valuation
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

AMKR shares have climbed 67.3% year to date, well ahead of the industry's 50.3% return and the sector's 17% advance. The rally reflects rising demand for advanced packaging, fueled by increasing AI and high-performance computing investments from companies like NVIDIA (NVDA - Free Report) , alongside steady demand across the premium smartphone and automotive markets.

AMKR’s YTD Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Advanced Packaging Demand Remains a Structural TailwindAMKR's growth engine remains its expanding footprint in advanced packaging, where chiplet-based architectures and high bandwidth memory integration push packaging decisions earlier into system design. AMKR remains one of the few suppliers able to execute at this level of complexity and scale across flip chip, 2.5D and High Density Fan Out (HDFO) platforms. Its HDFO bridge program with Advanced Micro Devices is expected to ramp up in 2027, while NVIDIA has validated AMKR's ability to turn complex silicon into deployable systems at volume. The HDFO platform now spans over five customers at various qualification stages, expanding AMKR's data center pipeline well beyond a single program.

This shift reflects the broader move from transistor scaling toward package-level integration for performance gains, and constrained global advanced packaging capacity supports a favorable long-term demand backdrop for AMKR.

Computing revenues rose 19% year over year in the first quarter of 2026, with AI data center strength offsetting soft personal computer demand. For the second quarter, computing revenues are expected to grow in the mid-single digits sequentially on the new data center CPU ramp, while full-year advanced packaging revenues are projected to roughly triple in 2026.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AMKR's 2026 earnings is pegged at $2.08 per share, indicating growth of 38.67% year over year.

Arizona Buildout Expands Addressable OpportunityAmkor Technology's $7 billion two-phase Arizona campus is set to complete the domestic advanced packaging and test flow that leading-edge wafer fabrication in the United States currently lacks. Phase 1 is on track for high-volume manufacturing beginning in 2028, backed by roughly $2.8 billion in combined government incentives, tax credits and customer co-investments. As utilization builds toward full-scale, management expects gross margin at the facility to exceed 30%, well ahead of AMKR's corporate average, with breakeven anticipated around 2029. The Advanced Micro Devices program is expected to be among the first to onshore into Arizona once qualified, giving AMKR an early foothold in domestic compute demand well ahead of full-scale production. AMKR has also secured an additional 67 acres of adjacent land, giving the company room to expand further as a potential second phase takes shape.

Smartphone and Automotive Markets Broaden AMKR’s Growth BaseAMKR's growth story extends well beyond AI and data center programs. Communications remains AMKR's largest end market, climbing 42% from a year earlier on strong premium-tier smartphone demand tied to Apple's current-generation product cycle, with continued strength expected to drive mid- to high-single-digit sequential growth in the second quarter.

Automotive and industrial revenues climbed 28% year over year in the same period, supported by rising content per vehicle as ADAS, in-car computing and electrification adoption expand and are guided to grow further in the mid-single digits sequentially. This diversification strengthens AMKR's overall positioning, complementing its expanding data center relationships with customers such as NVIDIA and giving the company multiple avenues to sustain double-digit growth across a broadening set of end markets.

ConclusionAMKR's long-term growth story remains firmly intact. Rising adoption of advanced packaging across AI and high-performance computing, expanding engagements with leading chipmakers and resilient premium smartphone demand driven by Apple provide multiple growth catalysts. Combined with the Arizona expansion and an attractive valuation relative to the industry, these factors position AMKR to deliver sustained earnings growth over the long term.

AMKR currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). This implies that investors should start accumulating the stock at current levels. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.

Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.

It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.

What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.

Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.

The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:

Value ScoreFinding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value, are what value investors like to focus on. So, the Value Style Score takes into account ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to highlight the most attractive and discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.

Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.

VGM ScoreIf you like to use all three kinds of investing, then the VGM Score is for you. It's a combination of all Style Scores, and is an important indicator to use with the Zacks Rank. The VGM Score rates each stock on their shared weighted styles, narrowing down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.

Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.

As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.

For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.

Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.

Stock to Watch: Carpenter Technology (CRS - Free Report) Philadelphia, PA-based Carpenter Technology Corporation is a producer and distributor of premium specialty alloys, including titanium alloys, powder metals, stainless steels, alloy steels, and tool steels as well as drilling tools. The company’s provides solutions for critical applications across diversified end-use markets - Aerospace and Defense (accounting for around 50.1% of the company’s revenues), Energy (5.3%), Transportation (3%), Medical (10.3%), Industrial and Consumer (12.3%) and Distribution (2.9%).

CRS is a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.

Momentum investors should take note of this Basic Materials stock. CRS has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 0.6% over the past four weeks.

Three analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.13 to $10.56 per share. CRS boasts an average earnings surprise of +9%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, CRS should be on investors' short list.

Free, product-agnostic, expert-led course content is designed to train social impact practitioners in responsible and effective AI use

, /PRNewswire/ -- The AI Coalition for Social Impact—convened by Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB), the world's leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact—today opened the AI for Social Impact Certification Program with the launch of the first course: AI Fundamentals for Social Impact. The free, product-agnostic certification program is designed to help organizations build the confidence, skills and governance needed to use artificial intelligence responsibly and effectively.

"AI could bring the greatest unlock of mission acceleration in the history of social impact, but adoption alone is not enough," said Carrie Cobb, chief data and AI officer at Blackbaud. "The key is building AI maturity: investing in education and best practices to govern AI well, plus deploying tools designed for specific workflows. This training—combined with the right technology—will empower organizations to move from tentative AI use to transformative AI results."

Recent data from the Blackbaud Institute (June 2026) found that 85% of nonprofit professionals now use AI at work, and half of organizations increased their AI use in 2026 over last year; however, only around 10% are seeing major gains as a result. The AI for Social Impact Certification Course creates a tangible path forward for organizations looking to build AI maturity that will drive enduring value for their missions.

The first course in the certification program features three lessons, led by experts from AI Coalition for Social Impact member organizations:

Lesson 1: Foundations of AI | Led by Ari Kaplan, a pioneer in digital transformation and currently the global head of evangelism at Databricks, this course offers a clear, accessible introduction to the world of artificial intelligence for social impact professionals. Ari brings his decades of experience translating complex technical concepts into practical frameworks. The course explores the foundations of AI, including its history, evolution, and the key types of AI in use today. It explores not just what AI is, but how to understand and evaluate it in ways that strengthen missions and empower teams. Lesson 2: Navigating AI Tools and Trends | This course, guided by Daniel Wallace and Dante Gabrielli of McKinsey & Company, provides a practical overview of today's AI landscape and what it means for social impact organizations. It explores why AI transformation is happening now, why many organizations struggle to move beyond pilots, and how emerging tools like AI agents are reshaping how work gets done. Through clear frameworks, real-world examples, and accessible explanations, this course helps demystify AI and connect technology trends to mission-driven outcomes. The course is designed to help organizations understand where they are on the AI maturity journey and how to take informed, thoughtful next steps. Lesson 3: Understanding Generational Perspectives of AI | This course, led by Dr. Laurene Currie, Responsible AI Research Scientist at Blackbaud, explores how attitudes toward AI differ across age groups and what these differences mean for adoption in the social impact sector. Drawing on real-world research and examples, Laurene provides insight into generational trends, trust factors, and expectations around AI use. The course is designed to inform how organizations can tailor AI strategies and communication to engage diverse audiences effectively. The AI Coalition for Social Impact, convened by Blackbaud in 2025 brings together leaders from philanthropy, technology, education, and corporate social responsibility to provide guidance, shared standards, and practical resources for responsible AI use. This free, product-agnostic certification program is the coalition's flagship initiative. Course 2, Responsible AI Principles and Regulations, will be available later this year.

Organizations and individuals can learn more, register for the course, and share the opportunity with their networks at:
https://www.blackbaud.com/ai/certifications 

About Blackbaud

Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB) is the world's leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact. Serving nonprofits, educational institutions, companies committed to corporate social responsibility, and individual change makers, Blackbaud propels impact at scale with the sector's most intelligent solutions for fundraising and engagement, education solutions, financial management and CSR and grantmaking. With the deepest expertise powered by the world's largest philanthropic data set, the most connected workflows, and the most powerful impact network, Blackbaud's solutions are building a future where resources are unleashed at the speed of need. Blackbaud has been recognized by Fast Company, Newsweek, Quartz, Forbes and more for AI innovation, responsible leadership and workplace excellence. Blackbaud has operations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, India and the United Kingdom, supporting users in 100+ countries. Learn more at www.blackbaud.com or follow us on X/Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media Inquiries

[email protected] 

Forward-looking Statements

Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations and assumptions contained in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements regarding expected benefits of products and product features. Although Blackbaud attempts to be accurate in making these forward-looking statements, it is possible that future circumstances might differ from the assumptions on which such statements are based. In addition, other important factors that could cause results to differ materially include the following: general economic risks; uncertainty regarding increased business and renewals from existing customers; continued success in sales growth; management of integration of acquired companies and other risks associated with acquisitions; risks associated with successful implementation of multiple integrated software products; the ability to attract and retain key personnel; risks associated with management of growth; lengthy sales and implementation cycles; technological changes that make our products and services less competitive; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in the SEC filings for Blackbaud, copies of which are available free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or upon request from Blackbaud's investor relations department. All Blackbaud product names appearing herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Blackbaud, Inc.

SOURCE Blackbaud

The Oils-Energy group has plenty of great stocks, but investors should always be looking for companies that are outperforming their peers. ProFrac Holding Corp. (ACDC - Free Report) is a stock that can certainly grab the attention of many investors, but do its recent returns compare favorably to the sector as a whole? Let's take a closer look at the stock's year-to-date performance to find out.

ProFrac Holding Corp. is one of 252 individual stocks in the Oils-Energy sector. Collectively, these companies sit at #9 in the Zacks Sector Rank. The Zacks Sector Rank includes 16 different groups and is listed in order from best to worst in terms of the average Zacks Rank of the individual companies within each of these sectors.

The Zacks Rank is a proven model that highlights a variety of stocks with the right characteristics to outperform the market over the next one to three months. The system emphasizes earnings estimate revisions and favors companies with improving earnings outlooks. ProFrac Holding Corp. is currently sporting a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).

Within the past quarter, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for ACDC's full-year earnings has moved 13.9% higher. This is a sign of improving analyst sentiment and a positive earnings outlook trend.

Our latest available data shows that ACDC has returned about 33.7% since the start of the calendar year. In comparison, Oils-Energy companies have returned an average of 23.3%. As we can see, ProFrac Holding Corp. is performing better than its sector in the calendar year.

Another stock in the Oils-Energy sector, HF Sinclair (DINO - Free Report) , has outperformed the sector so far this year. The stock's year-to-date return is 77.3%.

Over the past three months, HF Sinclair's consensus EPS estimate for the current year has increased 54.9%. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

Looking more specifically, ProFrac Holding Corp. belongs to the Oil and Gas - Field Services industry, a group that includes 20 individual stocks and currently sits at #107 in the Zacks Industry Rank. On average, this group has gained an average of 31.6% so far this year, meaning that ACDC is performing better in terms of year-to-date returns.

In contrast, HF Sinclair falls under the Oil and Gas - Refining and Marketing industry. Currently, this industry has 16 stocks and is ranked #45. Since the beginning of the year, the industry has moved +49%.

Going forward, investors interested in Oils-Energy stocks should continue to pay close attention to ProFrac Holding Corp. and HF Sinclair as they could maintain their solid performance.