AST SpaceMobile oznámila, že BlueBirdy 11, 12 a 13 mají v první polovině srpna odstartovat na Falconu 9 z Cape Canaveral. Mise rozšíří síť satelitního mobilního širokopásmového připojení.
BlueBirds 11, 12, and 13 will launch into low Earth orbit aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida
The mission continues the momentum established by the successful June 2026 launch of BlueBirds 8, 9, and 10, which are already operating in orbit
MIDLAND, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (“AST SpaceMobile”) (NASDAQ: ASTS), the company building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by everyday smartphones, designed for both commercial and government applications, today announced that BlueBird satellites 11, 12, and 13 are targeted to launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida in the first half of August.
The mission will carry the next batch of next-generation satellites to low Earth orbit, further expanding the company's space-based cellular broadband network designed to provide voice, data, video, directly to standard, unmodified smartphones everywhere.
“With each successful launch, we move closer to our goal of making space-based cellular broadband accessible wherever people live, work, and travel," said Scott Wisniewski, President of AST SpaceMobile. “BlueBirds 11, 12, and 13 build on the momentum of our recent constellation and represent another important milestone as we prepare for commercial service. The progression from BlueBirds 8, 9, and 10 to this next mission, together with the continued production and assembly of satellites through BlueBird 37, reflects the strength of our manufacturing capabilities and our ability to steadily expand the network while we work to connect the unconnected and under-connected around the world."
BlueBirds 11, 12, and 13 feature commercial communications arrays measuring approximately 2,400 square feet, matching the scale of the BlueBird satellites currently operating in orbit. These next-generation satellites are expected to deliver nearly double the peak data speeds of AST SpaceMobile's initial Block 1 BlueBird satellites, which recently achieved peak download speeds of 98.9 Mbps directly to standard smartphones.
The satellites leverage AST SpaceMobile's next-generation stackable satellite architecture, including advanced composite carbon structures designed to support efficient multi-satellite launches and accelerated constellation deployment. Combined with the company's multi-provider launch strategy, the architecture is designed to provide flexibility in deploying AST SpaceMobile's global constellation.
AST SpaceMobile has agreements with nearly 60 mobile network operators globally with over 3 billion subscribers combined and strategic partnerships with AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Rakuten, Google, Bell, Telus, stc Group, and American Tower.
The exact timing of orbital launches is subject to change based on a number of factors, including launch readiness of the launch provider, weather conditions, and other factors, many of which are beyond the company’s control.
About AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio, and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to enable 4G and 5G space-based cellular broadband to every device, everywhere, for today’s nearly 6 billion mobile subscribers globally. For more information, follow AST SpaceMobile on YouTube, X (Formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and Facebook. Watch this video for an overview of the SpaceMobile mission.
Forward-Looking Statements
This communication contains “forward-looking statements” that are not historical facts, and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results of AST SpaceMobile to differ materially from those expected and projected. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the words “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “potential,” “projects,” “predicts,” “continue,” or “should,” or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results. Most of these factors are outside AST SpaceMobile’s control and are difficult to predict.
Factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (i) expectations regarding AST SpaceMobile’s strategies and future financial performance, including AST’s future business plans or objectives, expected functionality of the SpaceMobile Service, anticipated timing of the launch of the Block 2 BlueBird satellites, anticipated demand and acceptance of mobile satellite services, prospective performance and commercial opportunities and competitors, the timing of obtaining regulatory approvals, ability to finance its research and development activities, commercial partnership acquisition and retention, products and services, pricing, marketing plans, operating expenses, market trends, revenues, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and AST SpaceMobile’s ability to invest in growth initiatives; (ii) the negotiation of definitive agreements with mobile network operators relating to the SpaceMobile Service that would supersede preliminary agreements and memoranda of understanding and the ability to enter into commercial agreements with other parties or government entities; (iii) the ability of AST SpaceMobile to grow and manage growth profitably and retain its key employees and AST SpaceMobile’s responses to actions of its competitors and its ability to effectively compete; (iv) changes in applicable laws or regulations; (v) the possibility that AST SpaceMobile may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; (vi) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against AST SpaceMobile; and (vii) other risks and uncertainties indicated in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including those in the Risk Factors section of AST SpaceMobile’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 2, 2026, its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2026 filed with the SEC on May 11, 2026 and the future reports that it may file from time to time with the SEC.
AST SpaceMobile cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. AST SpaceMobile cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. For information identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the Risk Factors in AST SpaceMobile’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 2, 2026, its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2026 filed with the SEC on May 11, 2026 and the future reports that it may file from time to time with the SEC. AST SpaceMobile’s securities filings can be accessed on the EDGAR section of the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Except as expressly required by applicable securities law, AST SpaceMobile disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
AST SpaceMobile ve 1. čtvrtletí 2026 utržila 14,73 mil. USD, což bylo o 59,72 % pod očekáváním, a čistá ztráta se prohloubila kvůli nákladům na konvertibilní dluhopisy ve výši 88,65 mil. USD. Akcie za týden klesly o 17,32 %.
AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ:ASTS) is the only public company beaming 4G and 5G directly to unmodified smartphones from low Earth orbit. CEO Abel Avellan calls it “the only technology positioned to capture the massive direct to device broadband opportunity in full.”
Shares are up just 11.06% year to date despite a constellation buildout that should reach approximately 45 satellites in orbit by year-end 2026. Can ASTS reclaim $100 by January 2027?
What’s Holding AST SpaceMobile Back The stock has stalled. ASTS fell 17.32% in the past week and is down 8.44% over the last month, retreating from a January 2026 peak of $115.77. Q1 2026 revenue of $14.73M missed expectations by 59.72%, and net loss widened with $88.65M in induced conversion expense on convertible notes.
Insiders have been sellers. The CFO unloaded 45,809 shares at $93.81 on June 12, and the president sold 25,904 shares at $126.64 in late May. With a beta of 2.634, ASTS moves violently. Right now it is moving down.
Wall Street Is Cautious. The Setup May Be Underestimated The consensus target sits at $81.47, pinned to today’s price. Analyst ratings split 2 Buy, 7 Hold, and 2 Strong Sell, with only 18% bullish sentiment.
Our base case sees $91.65 within a year (13.63% upside), with a bull case at $108.33. Confidence is moderate at 0.5. The hold-heavy consensus anchors to trailing financials while 2026 guidance steps up to $150M-$200M, backed by over $1.2 billion in aggregate contracted revenue commitments. That step function analysts tend to update slowly.
The Path to $100 Reaching $100 from today’s price of $80.66 requires a meaningful gain. That sits inside the one-year bull case.
Forward EPS is -$1.89, so $100 implies a forward multiple that is not meaningful. ASTS trades on constellation milestones and revenue ramp. The bull case rests on three catalysts: the mid-June launch of BlueBird 8, 9, and 10, the path to 45 satellites in orbit by year-end, and Block 2 satellites that are expected to nearly double the 98.9 Mbps peak data speeds already achieved.
Avellan framed it plainly: “AST SpaceMobile is accelerating manufacturing, regulatory progress, commercial partnerships, and government programs.”
With $3.03B in cash and nearly 60 global MNO partners covering more than 3 billion subscribers, the funding gap has narrowed. The primary risk is execution: any launch slip or MNO conversion failure reprices the story fast.
Valuation Today Price-to-sales sits at 368.59, which only makes sense if the $150M-$200M 2026 revenue guide is the floor. Shares sit 39% below the 52-week high of $133.86 and well above the $36.08 low. The five-year return of 666.73% reflects how quickly this stock rerates on constellation news.
Is $100 Realistic? The bold target is $100, requiring a gain of $100.11 on January 21, 2027.
Three things must go right: mid-June BlueBird launches must hit orbit on schedule, 2026 revenue must track to the upper half of $150M to $200M, and at least one large MNO MOU must convert to a definitive agreement. Launch failure or further dilutive financing derails it. Returns at this level shouldn’t be expected every year, but the blueprint for reaching $100 in 2027 is clear.
Nu Holdings ve 1. čtvrtletí 2026 zvýšila počet zákazníků na 135 milionů a průměrné měsíční tržby na zákazníka na 16 USD. Akcie přesto letos klesly asi o 25 %.
Nu Holdings (NU +0.24%) is one of the world's fastest-growing fintech companies. It owns NuBank, the largest digital-only bank in Latin America. By streamlining its digital services and offering a fee-free credit card, it expanded much faster than its brick-and-mortar competitors. It also expanded its ecosystem with more loans, e-commerce services, and crypto trading tools.
From 2021 to 2025, Nu's year-end customer base grew from 54 million to 131 million, its activity rate (active customers divided by total customers) expanded from 76% to 83%, and its monthly average revenue per customer (ARPAC) more than tripled from $4.50 to $15. Even as it added customers at that blistering pace, its average cost per active customer held steady.
Image source: Getty Images
In the first quarter of 2026, Nu's total customers rose to 135 million, its activity rate held steady at 83%, and its monthly average revenue per customer grew to $16.
Those growth rates were incredible, yet Nu's stock has still declined about 25% this year and trades at just 12 times next year's earnings. Is it an undervalued growth play in this frothy market?
Why did Nu's stock decline? From 2021 to 2025, Nu's revenue grew at a 75% CAGR. It turned profitable in 2023, and its EPS nearly doubled in 2024 and rose 45% in 2025. From 2025 to 2028, analysts expect its revenue and EPS to grow at CAGRs of 31% and 35%, respectively.
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Those growth rates are impressive, but three issues are compressing its valuations. First, it's expanding more aggressively into Mexico and Colombia to reduce its dependence on its core Brazilian market.
That expansion increased its credit risks, since both markets require higher funding costs and credit loss allowances than Brazil. Nu's expansion of its lower-margin secured lending and payroll-backed loan businesses exacerbated that pressure.
Second, Nu earns most of its revenue in Brazilian Reais, Mexican Pesos, and Colombian Pesos but reports its earnings in U.S. dollars. As a result, it faces persistent headwinds from a strong U.S. dollar -- which will only become stronger if the Fed raises its rates this year. Lastly, the market still values Nu like a conventional bank rather than a high-growth fintech company.
Is Nu's stock a screaming bargain? I believe Nu's stock is a bargain at these levels. It's in the process of securing full bank charters in Mexico and a conditional approval in the U.S. to reduce its funding costs and expand its reach. It also recently launched a new $1.0 billion buyback program.
It won't bounce back anytime soon, but it could attract a lot more attention once its Mexican and Colombian markets mature, the dollar weakens, and investors value it as a growth play again.
10x Genomics uzavřela víceletou spolupráci s Cleveland Clinic na diagnostice rakoviny močového měchýře. Studie využije platformy Flex Apex a Xenium k hledání biomarkerů, které mohou předpovídat odpověď na léčbu.
Key Takeaways 10x Genomics is collaborating with the Cleveland Clinic on bladder cancer diagnostic applications.The study will use Flex Apex and Xenium to find biomarkers tied to treatment response.The partnership could expand 10x Genomics' role in precision oncology and diagnostics. 10x Genomics (TXG - Free Report) recently entered into a multi-year research collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic to advance novel diagnostic applications for bladder cancer. The study will use the company's Flex Apex and Xenium platforms, with potential expansion to Atera, to identify biomarkers that may predict patient response to antibody-drug conjugates and immunotherapies.
From an investor's perspective, the collaboration marks another step in 10x Genomics' strategy to expand its technologies into clinical and diagnostic applications. The partnership could strengthen the company's position in precision oncology, broaden the use cases for its single-cell and spatial platforms and create long-term growth opportunities in cancer diagnostics.
Likely Trend of TXG Stock Following the NewsShares of TXG have traded flat since the announcement on Wednesday. In the year-to-date period, shares of the company surged 113.1% against the industry’s 20.1% decline. The S&P 500 increased 8.5% in the same time frame.
The collaboration with Cleveland Clinic is likely to strengthen 10x Genomics' long-term growth prospects by generating clinical evidence for the use of its single-cell and spatial technologies in precision oncology. Successful identification of predictive biomarkers could accelerate the adoption of Flex Apex, Xenium and Atera in translational research and future diagnostic applications, expand the company's presence in the high-growth oncology diagnostics market and create new revenue opportunities beyond its core research business.
TXG currently has a market capitalization of $4.08 billion.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
More on the NewsUnder the multi-year collaboration, 10x Genomics and the Cleveland Clinic are likely to initially analyze tumor samples from patients with advanced bladder cancer undergoing emerging therapeutic regimens. The study is likely to leverage TXG's Flex Apex and Xenium platforms and could later expand to the recently launched Atera platform. The partners aim to identify clinically relevant biomarkers that may predict patient responses to antibody-drug conjugates and immunotherapies, paving the way for future diagnostic development across multiple tumor types.
The research is likely to integrate single-cell transcriptomic profiling with spatial gene expression and protein measurements to generate a comprehensive view of tumor biology and the tumor microenvironment. Investigators are likely to assess tumor microenvironment composition, immune cell infiltration and the expression of therapeutic targets to better understand mechanisms underlying treatment response and resistance.
The collaboration is expected to generate a rich multimodal dataset linking molecular insights with clinical outcomes, supporting the development of next-generation precision oncology diagnostics and advancing the scientific understanding of bladder cancer.
Favorable Industry Prospect for TXGPer a report by Precedence Research, the global bladder cancer therapeutics diagnostics market size accounted for $5.68 billion in 2025 and is predicted to increase from $6.01 billion in 2026 to approximately $10.04 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 5.86%.
The bladder cancer diagnostics market is expanding rapidly, driven by the rising prevalence and awareness of the disease, alongside advances in precision medicine, personalized treatment approaches and non-invasive diagnostic technologies.
A Recent Development by TXGRecently, 10x Genomics announced the acquisition of Proteintech Genomics, a division within Proteintech Group that develops high-plex proteomic solutions for single-cell and spatial biology applications. The move expands TXG's capabilities in proteomics and supports its broader strategy of advancing multiomics research through integrated RNA and protein analysis.
Proteintech Genomics brings technologies, including the Human Discovery Panel, an antibody-based single-cell protein panel compatible with 10x Genomics' Flex chemistry workflows.
Some better-ranked stocks from the broader medical space are Globus Medical (GMED - Free Report) , West Pharmaceutical (WST - Free Report) and Intuitive Surgical (ISRG - Free Report) .
Globus Medical, currently carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), reported a first-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.12 per share, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 22.1%. Revenues of $759.9 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4.0%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
GMED has an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 10.2% compared with the industry’s 12.6% growth. The company’s earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 26.3%.
West Pharmaceutical, currently flaunting a Zacks Rank #1, reported first-quarter 2026 EPS of $2.13, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 26.8%. Revenues of $844.9 million surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 8.5%.
WST has an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 13.9% compared with the industry’s 9.5% growth. The company’s earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 19.4%.
Intuitive Surgical, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 at present, reported first-quarter 2026 adjusted EPS of $2.50, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 20.2%. Revenues of $2.77 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6.2%.
ISRG has a long-term estimated growth rate of 14.6% compared with the industry’s 12.6% growth. The company’s earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 16.8%.
Domino's Pizza letos klesla o 25 % a obchoduje se poblíž 52týdenního minima, zatímco její P/E 17 je nejnižší za více než 10 let. V 1. čtvrtletí zklamala tržbami i ziskem, ale hrubá marže vzrostla na 40,4 %.
Domino's Pizza (DPZ +3.21%) has not delivered for investors in 2026, but it is flashing a signal that long-term investors should take note of.
The world's largest pizza chain has been struggling over the past few years. This year, the stock price has plummeted 25% year to date as of June 19 and is trading at $312 per share, which is close to a 52-week low.
But even more notable is its valuation. Domino's stock is trading at 17 times earnings and 16 times forward earnings. That is not only a 52-week low valuation but also the lowest valuation for Domino's stock in more than 10 years.
The last time the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio was this low was in 2012, some 14 years ago. Does this mean that Domino's stock is a buy?
Image source: Getty Images.
Domino's stock is as cheap as it's been in years Domino's stock really tanked in late April after the pizza chain released first-quarter earnings that missed revenue and earnings estimates. Overall, global sales were up about 3.5% year over year. U.S. sales were up 3%, with same-store U.S. sales increasing 1%. The miss was mainly due to lower international sales, as international same-store sales were down 0.4%.
Also, Domino's lowered its U.S. same-store growth guidance for the fiscal year from 3% to a more nebulous low-single-digits range -- which could be 3%, but it sounds worse. It cited macroeconomic pressures and challenges. Overall global sales are targeted for mid-single digits.
Domino's has been investing heavily in its website and app to increase its digital sales, including a new, more intuitive app. Last year, online orders accounted for 85% of all sales in the U.S.
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It has also expanded its relationship with third-party delivery services, adding DoorDash as a delivery provider, along with Uber Eats. The third-party delivery services expand Domino's market and result in higher margins, as third-party orders are, on average, higher due to a premium placed on menu items ordered through third-party apps.
Also, in Q1, Domino's increased its gross margin by 60 basis points year over year to 40.4% due to strong expense management and lower costs of sales. Further, CFO Sandeep Reddy said on the earnings call that the operating margin will continue to expand this year.
Also worth noting is that a challenging economic environment could lead more budget-conscious families to seek cheaper options to feed their families.
Domino's stock is a compelling option worth considering given its decade-low valuation, its expense management, and its digital and third-party delivery strategies. Wall Street analysts see the stock as a buy, with a median price target of $400 per share, which would suggest 28% upside.
Dave Kovaleski has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Domino's Pizza, DoorDash, and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Domino's oznámila změnu ve vedení: od 1. října 2026 se novým CEO stane Joe Jordan. Russell Weiner přejde do role výkonného předsedy a David Brandon v roce 2027 odejde z představenstva.
Joe Jordan to Become Chief Executive Officer
Russell Weiner to Retire as CEO and Become Executive Chairman
David Brandon to Retire from the Board Following 28 Years of Service
, /PRNewswire/ -- Domino's Pizza Inc. (Nasdaq: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world, today announced that Russell Weiner has informed the Company's Board of Directors of his intention to retire as Chief Executive Officer following a distinguished career with Domino's. Consistent with its multi-year succession planning process, the Domino's Board of Directors has appointed Joe Jordan, currently Chief Operating Officer and President – Domino's U.S., as Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2026. Jordan will also join the Company's Board of Directors at that time. Russell Weiner will transition from Chief Executive Officer to Executive Chairman Designate on October 1, 2026, and become Executive Chairman following the Company's 2027 annual shareholder meeting. David Brandon, Executive Chairman, will retire and not stand for reelection to the Board in 2027, concluding 28 years of service to Domino's.
Domino's has announced the next chapter of the company's leadership. Joe Jordan (left), currently COO and President of Domino's U.S., has been appointed CEO effective Oct. 1, 2026, succeeding Russell Weiner (right), who will retire as CEO and transition to Executive Chairman in 2027. Current Executive Chairman David A. Brandon (middle) will retire from the Board in 2027 after nearly three decades of service to the company. "Joe is a proven leader whose experience spans virtually every aspect of our business," said David Brandon, Executive Chairman. "After a thoughtful succession planning process, the Board unanimously concluded that Joe is the right leader to serve as Domino's next CEO. He embodies Domino's culture of developing leaders from within, has earned the trust of franchisees across our global system and is uniquely qualified to guide the Company through its next phase of growth. At the same time, Russell is one of the most innovative, strategic leaders in our industry, and Domino's will continue to benefit from his creativity, franchisee relationships and extensive knowledge of the QSR category in his role as Executive Chairman."
Joe Jordan has spent nearly 15 years in leadership roles across Domino's marketing, U.S. and international operations, technology and franchisee support. He has built a proven track record of driving growth and innovation across the business, from delivering strong same store sales growth to leading Domino's international business through a period of record expansion, opening more than 3,000 stores worldwide during his tenure. Most recently, he has overseen key strategic initiatives, including the relaunch of the Company's loyalty and e-commerce platforms and the launch of Domino's global digital marketplace partnerships, leveraging strong relationships across the Company's system.
"I am honored by the Board's confidence and grateful for the opportunity to lead Domino's," said Joe Jordan, Chief Operating Officer and President – Domino's U.S. "What makes Domino's special is the strength of the people behind the brand, starting with our franchisees and including our team members and leaders around the world. I have also been fortunate to work closely with Russell over the past four years and am grateful for his leadership and contributions to Domino's. I look forward to continuing to benefit from his experience and perspective in his role on the Board. Domino's is one of the most innovative and resilient global systems in the restaurant industry and I am excited to build that foundation as we focus on reaccelerating growth and continuing to deliver delicious pizza and exceptional value to customers worldwide."
Russell Weiner will continue serving as Chief Executive Officer through September 30, 2026, after which he will become Executive Chairman Designate until Domino's annual shareholder meeting in April 2027, when he will assume the role of Executive Chairman. Weiner will help ensure continuity as the Company transitions to its next generation of leadership and will provide counsel to Joe Jordan and the Board, supporting Domino's continued growth leveraging his 18 years with the brand.
"Since joining Domino's in 2008, Russell has played a pivotal role in the Company's growth and success," said David Brandon. "Among his many contributions to the brand prior to becoming CEO, Russell led the highly successful, and somewhat infamous, 'Pizza Turnaround' campaign that was launched in 2010 and created many years of positive momentum for our brand and business. As CEO, Russell was the architect of the Hungry for MORE strategy, which continues to drive sales and store growth and expand Domino's dominant market share of the pizza category. During his tenure as CEO, the Company achieved net store growth of more than 3,200 locations, increased global retail sales by nearly $3 billion, and delivered close to a 30% increase in operating income. We owe Russell a great debt of thanks for his leadership and many accomplishments and look forward to his continued involvement as Executive Chairman of the Board."
David Brandon will retire from the Board and as Executive Chairman following the Company's 2027 annual shareholder meeting. He has served as Chairman of Domino's Board of Directors since 1999 and as Executive Chairman since 2022. He also served as Chief Executive Officer from 1999 to 2010. During his 28 years of leadership and board stewardship, Brandon helped transform Domino's into a global category leader, guiding the Company from its 2004 initial public offering through a period of significant international expansion and technological innovation, including the introduction of online ordering, Domino's Tracker and mobile ordering.
"Dave's impact on Domino's cannot be overstated," said Russell Weiner, Chief Executive Officer. "He led the Company through its transformation from a domestic pizza chain to a global technology and delivery leader, championing the digital innovations that revolutionized how customers order pizza. Beyond his strategic vision, Dave has been an invaluable mentor to countless leaders across our system. His relentless focus on franchisee success and operational excellence has shaped the culture that drives Domino's today, and his legacy will endure for generations to come."
With a leadership team that combines deep operational expertise, strategic vision and strong franchisee relationships, Domino's enters its next chapter focused on accelerating growth, strengthening its global leadership position and continuing to raise the bar on delicious food at renowned value for customers around the world.
About Domino's Pizza®
Founded in 1960, Domino's Pizza is the largest pizza company in the world, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. It ranks among the world's top public restaurant brands with a global enterprise of more than 22,300 stores in over 90 markets. Domino's had global retail sales of over $20.4 billion in the trailing four quarters ended March 22, 2026. Its system is comprised of independent franchise owners who accounted for 99% of Domino's stores as of the end of the first quarter of 2026. In the U.S., Domino's generated more than 85% of U.S. retail sales in 2025 via digital channels and has developed many innovative ordering platforms.
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Company Info – biz.dominos.com
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Tencent testuje v čínském Weixinu AI asistenta Xiaowei, který má uživatelům pomáhat přes text, hlas i mini-programy. Firma tím chce posílit pozici v tvrdě konkurenčním trhu AI.
Tencent on Monday said it is testing an AI assistant within WeChat in China as the tech giant looks to step up efforts to challenge rivals in the country's competitive artificial intelligence market.
Xiaowei, "a native AI assistant," is being tested "on a small scale" in Weixin, the Chinese version of WeChat, Tencent said in a statement translated by CNBC.
Users can interact with Xiaowei with text or voice, communicate with friends and launch "mini-programs," Tencent added. Mini-programs are apps that run inside of WeChat.
Tencent executives have been mulling further integration of AI into WeChat since last year, with investors watching closely to see if this can be a new revenue stream and a way to monetize AI.
watch now
WeChat and Weixin have more than 1.4 billion monthly active users combined, with the majority in China. It is an indispensable part of daily life in China, where people use the app to message friends, make payments, book restaurants and much more.
By integrating an AI tool into an app with a huge user base, Tencent has an opportunity to capture a large number of them for its services.
"Putting an assistant inside Weixin is the first time Tencent uses the advantage it has held all along, and that matters a lot," Howard Yu, the LEGO professor of management and innovation at IMD, told CNBC by email.
"A standalone chatbot gives you an answer. An assistant wired into Weixin completes the task. And it's this second advantage that no rival can copy," Yu added.
The company did not give further details about the capabilities Xiaowei would have or what AI models it is based on.
Tech companies are talking up the potential of so-called AI agents, which they see as digital assistants that are able to carry out complex tasks on a user's behalf across different apps and services.
The new AI assistant is part of a bigger move from Tencent to challenge rivals like Alibaba, DeepSeek and Zhipu in China, which has become an incredibly competitive AI market. This year, Tencent poached an OpenAI researcher to become its chief AI scientist.
Tencent also develops its own family of models under the brand name Hunyuan.
Viking Therapeutics zahájila fázi 1 studie VK3019, nového agonisty receptorů amylinu a kalcitoninu, u zdravých dospělých s BMI alespoň 30. Studie má prověřit bezpečnost, snášenlivost a farmakokinetiku.
Single ascending dose study evaluating safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of VK3019
Potential to further expand Viking's treatment options for weight loss
, /PRNewswire/ -- Viking Therapeutics, Inc. ("Viking") (NASDAQ: VKTX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel therapies for metabolic and endocrine disorders, announced today the initiation of a Phase 1 single ascending dose (SAD) clinical trial of VK3019, an investigational dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonist (DACRA). VK3019 is being developed as a potential treatment option for weight loss. The study initiation follows the filing and clearance of VK3019's investigational new drug (IND) application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Phase 1 trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled SAD study in healthy adults with BMI ≥30. The primary objectives of the study include evaluating the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of single subcutaneous doses of VK3019. Exploratory pharmacodynamic assessments include evaluations of changes in body weight after a single-dose administration.
"The initiation of VK3019's Phase 1 study marks an important expansion of our portfolio of novel therapies designed to optimize the weight loss journey for patients and their physicians," said Brian Lian, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Viking. "Therapies that target amylin and calcitonin receptors may potentially be used alone or in combination with GLP-1 or dual GLP-1/GIP agonists to improve the induction of weight loss as well as for longer-term weight management. Given the complexity of managing obesity and related metabolic conditions, broadening the potential treatment options is crucial to meeting the diverse needs of individuals seeking safe and sustainable weight loss."
Preclinical data from Viking's internally developed DACRAs showed impressive effects on body weight, food intake, and metabolism in healthy rats and diet-induced obese (DIO) mice compared to control-treated animals. Results showed Viking's DACRAs reduced food intake in lean rats within 0 to 72 hours after a single dose. At 72 hours, these compounds reduced body weight by up to 8% compared to controls.
In addition to the Phase 1 trial of VK3019, Viking is currently conducting the Phase 3 VANQUISH studies of subcutaneous VK2735, a dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors, in patients with obesity or who are overweight. The VANQUISH program consists of two trials evaluating VK2735: one in adults with obesity (VANQUISH-1), and another in adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes (VANQUISH-2). Each study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial designed to assess the efficacy and safety of VK2735 administered by subcutaneous injection once weekly for 78 weeks.
In parallel with the development of a subcutaneous formulation, Viking is advancing an oral tablet formulation of VK2735. If successful, oral VK2735 would represent the first oral dual agonist to reach the market. The company believes the availability of both oral and injectable formulations is a key differentiating feature of VK2735, compared with competitive agents, as no other dual or triple agonist is currently available in both formulations. Using the same active ingredient across formulations may also reduce the risk of unexpected side effects compared with switching between therapies that do not share the same active agent. The company plans to initiate a Phase 3 trial to evaluate oral VK2735 for the treatment of obesity and overweight later this year.
Based on VK2735's promising efficacy and differentiated pharmacokinetic (PK) profile, the company is evaluating a range of novel dosing regimens for both the induction and the long-term maintenance of weight loss. In October 2025, Viking initiated a Phase 1 study designed to explore the feasibility of various VK2735 maintenance dosing regimens. Providing flexible dosing options for long-term therapy may improve treatment persistence following achievement of individual weight loss goals. The company believes this may lead to improved adherence to therapy and increase the probability of realizing the long-term benefits of weight loss, such as reduced cardiovascular risks, improved physical function, and enhanced quality of life. The company expects to report the results of the study in 3Q26.
About VK3019
VK3019 is an investigational dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonist (DACRA) in development as a potential new treatment option for weight loss. It is currently being evaluated in a single ascending dose study assessing safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of VK3019 for the treatment of metabolic disorders and obesity.
About Amylin and Calcitonin
Amylin and calcitonin receptors play an important role in food intake and metabolic control. Amylin is a peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin from pancreatic β-cells that slows gastric emptying and suppresses postprandial glucagon secretion, promoting satiety and regulating blood glucose. After a meal, amylin is secreted from the pancreas and circulates in the blood to activate specific receptors in the brainstem. This results in suppression of glucagon release from the pancreas, reduced food intake, and slowed gastric emptying. The net effect of these actions is to decrease blood glucose and is associated with longer-term reductions in body weight. Calcitonin is a peptide hormone produced by the thyroid gland known for its role in regulating calcium homeostasis. To date, the addition of calcitonin receptor activation by DACRAs has demonstrated additional metabolic benefits not seen with amylin receptor activation alone, such as improved fasting glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity, and can result in a more acute reduction of food intake and greater body weight loss.
About GLP-1 and Dual GLP-1/GIP Agonists
Activation of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor has been shown to decrease glucose, reduce appetite, lower body weight, and improve insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, or both. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is currently marketed in various dosage strengths and forms as Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, and Wegovy®. More recently, research efforts have explored the potential co-activation of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) receptor as a means of enhancing the therapeutic benefits of GLP-1 receptor activation. Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is currently marketed in various dosage strengths and forms as Mounjaro® and Zepbound®.
About Viking Therapeutics, Inc.
Viking Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel first-in-class or best-in-class therapies for the treatment of metabolic and endocrine disorders. Viking's research and development activities leverage its expertise in metabolism to develop innovative therapeutics designed to improve patients' lives. Viking's clinical programs include VK2735, a novel dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors for the potential treatment of various metabolic disorders. The company is evaluating its subcutaneous formulation of VK2735 in a Phase 3 obesity program that includes two Phase 3 clinical trials (VANQUISH-1 and VANQUISH-2). Data from a Phase 1 and a Phase 2 trial evaluating subcutaneous VK2735 demonstrated an encouraging safety and tolerability profile as well as positive signs of clinical benefit. Concurrently, the company is evaluating an oral formulation of VK2735 in obesity. Viking is also developing VK2809, a novel, orally available, small molecule selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist for the treatment of lipid and metabolic disorders. The compound successfully achieved both the primary and secondary endpoints in a Phase 2b study for the treatment of biopsy-confirmed non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis. In a Phase 2a trial for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and elevated LDL-C, patients who received VK2809 demonstrated statistically significant reductions in LDL-C and liver fat content compared with patients who received placebo. The company's newest program is evaluating a series of internally developed dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonists (or DACRAs) for the treatment of obesity and other metabolic disorders. In the rare disease space, Viking is developing VK0214, a novel, orally available, small molecule selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist for the potential treatment of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). In a Phase 1b clinical trial in patients with the adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) form of X-ALD, VK0214 was shown to be safe and well-tolerated, while driving significant reductions in plasma levels of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) and other lipids, as compared to placebo.
For more information about Viking Therapeutics, please visit www.vikingtherapeutics.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding Viking Therapeutics, Inc., under the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about Viking's expectations regarding its clinical and preclinical development programs, anticipated timing for reporting clinical data and cash resources. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely and reported results should not be considered as an indication of future performance. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks associated with the success, cost and timing of Viking's product candidate development activities and clinical trials, including those for VK2735, VK3019, VK0214, VK2809, and the company's other incretin and other receptor agonists; risks that prior clinical and preclinical results may not be replicated; risks regarding regulatory requirements; and other risks that are described in Viking's most recent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including Viking's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, including the risk factors set forth in those filings. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Viking disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements except as required by law.
Akcie Sweetgreen za tři měsíce vzrostly o 60 %, protože investory povzbudily známky zlepšení v obratu firmy. Společnost ale zůstává ztrátová a poslední čtvrtletí opět zklamalo.
This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.
52-Week Range$4.49▼
$16.70P/E Ratio72.26
Price Target$8.04
Shares of Sweetgreen Inc. NYSE: SG have surged 60% over the past three months, rebounding from a steep selloff that began in late 2024 as concerns about slowing consumer demand mounted. The rally has some questioning whether the company's efforts to revive the business are finally gaining traction or if the stock is simply rebounding from deeply oversold levels.
Sweetgreen's core business remains unprofitable, and the company has missed Wall Street expectations more often than not since going public, including the most recent quarter, reported on May 8.
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However, encouraging comments about its turnaround efforts seem to have sparked fresh optimism.
Sweetgreen Shares Have Surged Since Hitting March LowThe fast-casual chain, known for its salads and other healthy menu items, went public in late 2021, and its shares initially soared. However, the gains were short-lived, and the stock spent much of the next few years under pressure as the company struggled to turn a profit.
In 2024, things started to look up. The stock went from trading around $10 in January to above $44 by November. But as concerns about slowing consumer demand emerged, those gains quickly unraveled. By March 2026, the stock had plunged to an all-time low of $4.49. Since then, shares have rebounded sharply, surging nearly 100%.
The catalyst doesn't appear to be the company's most recent earnings report. Sweetgreen posted a first-quarter loss of 27 cents per share, wider than the 21-cent-per-share loss reported a year earlier and Wall Street's estimate for a 23-cent loss. Revenue of roughly $162 million fell nearly 3% year over year and missed expectations by about $2 million. The results marked the company's fourth consecutive earnings and revenue miss and its third straight quarter of declining revenue.
Turnaround Plan Is Showing Signs of TractionDespite the disappointing earnings report, the company's comments on its Sweetgrowth Transformation Plan, launched in November 2025 to help turn the business around, appeared to spark optimism among investors.
During the earnings call, co-founder and Chief Executive Jonathan Neman said, "We are beginning to see signs that the actions we are putting in place are gaining traction. We are seeing improvement in execution across our restaurants, greater consistency in the guest experience, and stronger alignment across our teams."
He added, "We saw improvement as the quarter progressed with a further step up in April."
Neman also expressed enthusiasm about the recent addition of wraps to the menu, which he described as Sweetgreen's "most significant menu expansion in several years." The company expects wraps to help drive traffic while making the brand more accessible because of its lower price point.
Sentiment Has Improved, But Wall Street Remains CautiousInvestors appeared encouraged by the company's comments about improving trends. In the weeks following the report, five analysts raised their price targets on the stock, while two upgraded their ratings.
Even with the recent upgrades, Wall Street remains somewhat cautious. The consensus rating on Sweetgreen is Hold, based on 12 Hold ratings, four Buys, and three Sells. The majority of analysts aren't anticipating upside over the next year. The average 12-month price target of just above $8 is roughly 5% below the current share price. Price targets range from a low of $4.50 to a high of $15.
There are other indicators that suggest sentiment may be improving as well. The number of shares sold short has fallen from roughly 25 million, or nearly 27% of float, at the end of March to less than 20 million, or roughly 20% of float, as of the most recent reporting period at the end of May. While the stock remains heavily shorted, some bearish investors appear to be backing away from the name.
Insiders also appear to be expressing confidence in the company. Over the past three months, Sweetgreen insiders purchased roughly $3.4 million worth of company stock. No insider sales were reported.
Despite Recent Rally, Stock Remains Well Below HighsEven after the recent rally, Sweetgreen shares are still trading around $9, well below their July 52-week high of $16.70 and far below the more than $44 level reached in November 2024.
The stock's steep decline has left Sweetgreen trading at a discount to several peers in the fast-casual restaurant sector, which could help explain the renewed interest in the shares.
On a price-to-sales basis, Sweetgreen stock trades at less than 1.6X sales, compared with roughly 8.3X for CAVA Group Inc. NYSE: CAVA, 3.4X for Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. NYSE: CMG, and 6.1X for Wingstop Inc. NASDAQ: WING. Shake Shack Inc. NYSE: SHAK, which plummeted after reporting disappointing Q1 results, is the closest comparison, trading at 1.7X sales.
Sweetgreen's rebound likely began as investors saw value in a stock that had been heavily sold off. More recently, however, signs of progress in the company's turnaround efforts appear to have provided additional support for the rally.
Sweetgreen, Inc. (SG) Price Chart for Wednesday, June, 24, 2026
While the company's financial results still leave plenty of room for improvement, investors seem increasingly focused on what comes next. The second-quarter earnings report in August should provide a clearer indication of whether the recent improvement in traffic trends continued and whether Sweetgreen is beginning to translate those gains into stronger financial performance.
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SummaryReddit delivered 69% YoY revenue growth in Q1 2026, with 91.5% gross margin and $311 million free cash flow.Monetization is accelerating, driven by ARPU expansion and improved ad products, while user growth is no longer the primary revenue driver.International ARPU and user frequency present significant upside, with 2030 revenue projected at $8 billion–$10 billion and FCF at $3.2 billion–$3.6 billion.At 11x 2030 FCF, RDDT is undervalued given its high-margin model, strategic AI relevance, and compounding free cash flow potential. stockcam/iStock Unreleased via Getty Images
Reddit (RDDT) has crossed the line from interesting internet community to high-growth, highly profitable, cash-generative platform. In Q1 2026, Reddit grew revenue ~70% YoY, with 90+% gross margin, and nearly ~50% operating cash flow margin, while spending only $1 million of
9.65K Followers
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of RDDT either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Not financial advice
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Outdoor Holding ve čtvrtém čtvrtletí snížila ztrátu z pokračujících činností, když tržby vzrostly o 10,1 % na 13,9 milionu USD a provozní náklady prudce klesly. Firma zároveň sází na AI nástroje, úpravy platformy GunBroker a zpětné odkupy akcií.
Key Takeaways POWW narrowed its continuing operations loss as Q4 revenues rose and operating expenses fell sharply.Outdoor Holding says GunBroker gains include platform upgrades, MasterFFL revenues and new AI tools.POWW ended fiscal 2026 with $68.1M in cash and plans disciplined buybacks and platform investment. Outdoor Holding Company (POWW - Free Report) used its fourth-quarter call to argue that fiscal 2026 marked a reset year, with lower costs, stronger cash generation and a cleaner legal backdrop reshaping the GunBroker.com business.
Management’s message centered less on the quarter’s reported loss and more on the earnings power of a leaner marketplace model as platform upgrades, FFL-related services and AI tools move into fiscal 2027.
POWW Banks on a Leaner Cost BaseChairman and CEO Steven Urvan framed the quarter as proof that the company’s post-divestiture model can produce stronger profitability even in a cautious consumer environment. He said adjusted EBITDA rose sequentially through fiscal 2026 and that the fourth-quarter annualized run rate exceeded the $25 million target he set last August.
That argument rested heavily on expense control. The company reported a fourth-quarter loss of $0.03 per share, wider than the estimate of a loss of $0.02, delivering a negative surprise of 50%. Fourth-quarter revenues rose 10.1% to $13.9 million, which beat the consensus mark of $12.7 million by 9.4%. Meanwhile, total operating expenses fell to $15.1 million from $38 million a year earlier.
Chief financial officer Paul Kasowski added that fiscal 2026 adjusted EBITDA reached $22.3 million, up from $15.3 million in fiscal 2025, reflecting lower SG&A, lower legal expense and lower bad debt expense.
Outdoor Holding Pushes Platform UpgradesManagement tied much of its forward narrative to improving GunBroker’s marketplace economics rather than chasing broad expansion. Urvan and Kasowski pointed to better search and filtering, stronger seller analytics and promotional tools, and refined buyer personalization across the platform.
A key operational step was the integration with MasterFFL, which management said streamlines transfers for products subject to federal firearms license rules. Kasowski said that the effort moves from a cost center in earlier quarters to a revenue source in fiscal 2027, though the new revenue stream will carry lower profitability than the marketplace’s legacy margin profile.
The company is also leaning harder into AI. Urvan said an AI-powered listing tool launched in March to standardize descriptions and improve conversion, while an AI-driven virtual customer service offering is expected within about a month of the call.
POWW Sees Share Gains in FirearmsManagement used demand commentary to highlight market-share gains rather than broad market strength. In prepared remarks, Urvan said firearm unit sales increased more than 8.7% in the quarter, ahead of the 1.6% rise in adjusted NICS checks, while the company’s adjusted NICS share improved by 40 basis points.
Kasowski said fourth-quarter GMV climbed to $229 million, up 11.8% from a year earlier and 6.2% from the prior quarter, with firearms driving most of the increase. He also said sales growth in pistols and rifles supported results, though a greater mix of firearms modestly pressured the take rate to 6.06% from 6.15%.
In Q&A, Urvan told a ROTH Capital analyst that demand in the marketplace has remained better this year and that the company continues to outperform the market by making the buying and selling experience more seamless. He avoided previewing first-quarter numbers but sounded confident that share gains are continuing.
Outdoor Holding Clears Legacy IssuesAnother major theme was balance sheet flexibility after working through legacy matters. The company ended fiscal 2026 with $68.1 million in cash and cash equivalents, up sharply from $30.2 million a year earlier, even after a $4.4 million DCP settlement and more than $1 million of share repurchases in the fourth quarter.
Urvan said the company has now resolved most inherited litigation matters, leaving the Arizona class action and shareholder derivative litigation as the main open items. He told analysts that indemnification costs tied to former officers could remain uneven, but said management does not see more large settlements like the DCP payment on the horizon.
That cleanup matters because management wants greater freedom in capital allocation. Urvan said the company expects to keep buying back stock in a disciplined way while selectively investing in platform features that can lift traffic, transactions and revenue.
POWW Maps Out Fiscal 2027 PrioritiesThe fiscal 2027 agenda came through clearly in both the release and the call. Management identified premium seller offerings, pricing and promotional tools, data analytics, universal payments and broader buyer engagement as the main operating priorities for the year ahead.
In Q&A with Kanen Wealth Management, Urvan added more detail on potential growth levers. He said MasterFFL is now generating revenues, advertising remains underdeveloped compared with prior years, and universal payments could meaningfully reduce friction for customers who still rely on money orders rather than card transactions.
The tone was notably more assertive when management discussed scalability. Urvan and Kasowski argued that the marketplace’s operating base is now much more fixed, which means incremental revenues should convert into higher profitability more efficiently than in prior periods.
Outdoor Holding Leaves a Sharper MessageTaken together, management used the call to make a straightforward case: fiscal 2026 was about stabilizing the business, lowering the cost structure and restoring financial control, while fiscal 2027 is about monetizing that reset through product, payments and AI execution.
The company did not offer formal quarterly guidance on the call, but the emphasis on market-share gains, recurring cash flow and fewer legal distractions left investors with a clearer sense of management’s priorities and confidence level entering the new fiscal year.
POWW and the Zacks SignalsPOWW carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), with a Value Score of F, Growth Score of B, Momentum Score of D and VGM Score of D, based on the provided Zacks data. A Zacks Rank #3 points to a more balanced near-term setup than the stronger Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or #2 (Buy) categories, while the Style Scores indicate better relative growth characteristics than value or momentum traits. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Style Score framework says higher grades are generally associated with better expected performance, and that the strongest combinations tend to be Rank #1 or #2 stocks paired with A or B Style Scores or VGM Scores. That leaves POWW with a mixed signal after the quarter, and that ranking can still change as earnings estimate revisions adjust following the latest results.
Regions Financial letos zvýšila dividendu o 6 % na 26 centů na akcii a dál cílí na výplatní poměr 40–50 % zisku. Na odkupy akcií jí zbývá ještě 2,6 mld. USD.
Key Takeaways RF has raised its dividend five times in five years and targets a 40%-50% earnings payout ratio.Regions Financial has $2.6B remaining under its share repurchase authorization as of March 2026.RF held $67.9B in liquidity sources against $6.3B in total debt as of March 31, 2026. Regions Financial (RF - Free Report) remains focused on rewarding shareholders through dividend payments and share buybacks while pursuing growth opportunities. In July 2025, the company hiked its quarterly dividend by 6% to 26 cents per share. Over the past five years, the company has increased its dividend five times.
RF has a five-year annualized dividend growth rate of 12.3% and a payout ratio of 44%. It currently offers a dividend yield of 3.7%, higher than the industry's 2.5%. Further, management expects to maintain a dividend payout target of 40-50% of earnings in 2026. The company’s consistent dividend growth and targeted payout ratio reflect its commitment to returning capital to shareholders while maintaining financial flexibility.
Dividend Yield
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Apart from dividends, RF continues to enhance shareholder returns through share repurchases. On Dec. 10, 2025, the company's board of directors approved a new share repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $3 billion of its common stock through Dec. 31, 2027. As of March 31, 2026, $2.6 billion of shares remained available under the repurchase authorization.
Regions Financial has also been pursuing strategic growth initiatives to strengthen its franchise and support long-term growth. At the 2026 RBC Capital Markets conference, management outlined plans to open 135-150 branches over the next five years and renovate more than 1,000 existing locations, focusing on high-growth Southeastern and Texas markets. The company also continues to invest in wealth management, treasury management, payments and capital markets businesses, supporting its fee-based revenue growth. RF's strong capital and liquidity position enable it to pursue these growth initiatives while continuing to return capital to shareholders.
As of March 31, 2026, Regions Financial had total debt (including both long-term and short-term borrowings) of $6.3 billion, while liquidity sources totaled $67.9 billion. Further, the company's senior unsecured debt carries investment-grade ratings of BBB+ from Standard & Poor's, Baa1 from Moody's and A- from Fitch. These ratings provide RF with favorable access to funding markets at attractive rates and suggest that the company can continue meeting its debt obligations even if economic conditions worsen.
Thus, RF’s consistent dividend growth, active share repurchases and disciplined payout strategy reflect strong capital management and financial stability. Backed by solid liquidity, investment-grade credit ratings and a steady earnings base, the company is well-positioned to sustain capital distribution activities and reinforce investor confidence in its long-term prospects.
Other Banks' Capital Distribution ApproachCitizens Financial Group (CFG - Free Report) also maintains a disciplined capital distribution approach. In October 2025, the company increased its common stock dividend by 9.5% to 46 cents per share. As of March 31, 2026, Citizens Financial had available liquidity of $12.3 billion, supporting shareholder distributions while maintaining regulatory capital buffers. Citizens Financial also has a share repurchase program in place. On June 12, 2025, the board increased the program's capacity to $1.5 billion. As of March 31, 2026, nearly $1 billion remained available under the authorization.
Popular (BPOP - Free Report) has been consistent in rewarding shareholders through capital distributions. In August 2025, the company hiked its dividend by 7.1% to 75 cents per share. As of March 31, 2026, the company had liquidity of $5 billion, compared with short-term debt of $1.1 billion and no long-term debt. Popular also maintains a share repurchase program. In July 2025, Popular launched a new buyback program, adding $500 million to the 2024 authorization. As of March 31, 2026, $126 million remained available under the authorization.
RF’s Price Performance & Zacks RankOver the past six months, shares of Regions Financial have gained 2.9% compared with the industry’s growth of 3.3%.
Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Currently, RF carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Intuitive Machines chce získat 500 milionů USD prodejem nových akcií, aby překlenula období záporných peněžních toků až do dosažení kladného volného peněžního toku. Rozředění akcionářů může být jen 7,8 %.
Intuitive Machines (LUNR 6.40%) spooked the stock market earlier this month, and its timing couldn't have been worse. (At least, from one perspective. More on that in a moment.)
Shares of the space stock -- which, in 2024, became the first American company to land a spacecraft on the moon, and the first American anything to return to the moon in 50 years -- are down an astounding 46% in June.
Yes, this is partly because the SpaceX (SPCX +0.54%) IPO sucked all the oxygen out of the room last Friday, and vacuumed up all the investor cash that used to be invested in other space stocks. Still, Intuitive got the sell-off started all on its own when it announced plans on June 3 to raise $500 million in cash by selling a bunch of new shares.
Image source: Getty Images.
Timing is everything I've got good news for Intuitive shareholders, as well as this bad news: Intuitive Machines announced its share sale soon after hitting an all-time high near $46. Assuming it's made good on its plans and been selling as many shares as it could, as fast as humanly possible, the company may still come out of this sell-off just fine in the end.
Why is that?
Consider that, at the end of 2025, Intuitive stock was trading around $16 per share. Successful contract wins combined with SpaceX IPO fever drove that price up nearly threefold through the end of May.
Did this make the stock overvalued? I think so (and this is coming from an owner of Intuitive Machines stock). Still, by the time Intuitive announced its share sale, the stock was within pennies of $40 a share -- meaning that raising $500 million might have required issuing no more than 12.5 million shares, diluting shareholders by only 7.8%.
What's more, the potential $500 million windfall from such a sale would generate plenty of cash to bridge the gap between when Intuitive is still burning cash and when it finally becomes free cash flow positive on its own (analysts expect this to happen in 2027 or early 2028). This would mean that Intuitive never has to raise cash again.
Today's Change
(
-6.40
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-1.34
Current Price
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19.61
What could go wrong? The question facing investors now is: Did Intuitive Machines manage to sell its shares and raise cash before its stock price collapsed after the SpaceX IPO?
The truth is, we don't yet know. The fact that Intuitive Machines' stock price fell so rapidly and consistently after it announced its share sale certainly suggests that the company was flooding the market with new shares this month. If it did, and if it raised enough cash fast enough, then Intuitive Machines may have accomplished its goal in time.
We'll have to wait for the company's next earnings report to know for sure, however. Intuitive Machines is due to report second-quarter results on Aug. 6. Tune in then to find out.
Sitka Gold oznámila další silné výsledky vrtání v Blackjacku: DDRCCC-26-125 vrátil 94,5 m s 1,62 g/t zlata včetně 2,0 m s 11,85 g/t. Firma dál rozšiřuje mineralizaci v rámci 60 000m programu.
Sitka reports results for six additional diamond drill holes; continues to intercept significant intervals of high-grade gold mineralization in step out drilling at the Blackjack deposit
Drillhole DDRCCC-26-125 returned 94.5 m of 1.62 g/t Au including 2.0 m of 11.85 g/t Au, and a separate interval of 197.0 m of 1.06 g/t Au including 2.0 m of 9.95 g/t Au
Drillhole DDRCCC-26-123 returned 214.5 m of 0.97 g/t Au, including 106.9 m of 1.36 g/t Au and 2.0 m of 15.45 g/t Au
Drillhole DDRCCC-26-126 returned 153.1 m of 1.33 g/t Au, including 110.0 m of 1.63 g/t Au including 2.0 m of 12.35 g/t Au
Over 18,000 m of expansion drilling completed at the Blackjack deposit across 40 holes since the last MRE for Blackjack was published in January 2025; effectively doubling the meterage completed since the last resource estimate was calculated
Six drill rigs are currently turning on the Project at Blackjack, Rhosgobel and Saddle
Approximately 17,600 m of diamond drilling have been completed to date this year in 30 drill holes across the Blackjack and Rhosgobel deposits as part of the ongoing 60,000 m drill program planned for 2026
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 23, 2026) - Sitka Gold Corp. (TSXV: SIG) (FSE: 1RF) (OTCQX: SITKF) ("Sitka" or the "Company") is pleased to announce assay results from six drill holes completed during its 2026 exploration campaign and to provide an update on the 60,000 metre diamond drilling program currently underway at its 100% owned, road accessible RC Gold Project ("RC Gold" or the "Project") in Canada's Yukon Territory. Analytical results for drill holes DDRCCC-26-122 through DDRCCC-26-127 have been received and compiled and are reported herein. These results continue to expand and infill the mineralized zone at Blackjack (see Figures 1 to 3). Highlights of the reported drill holes include DDRCCC-26-123 which returned 214.5 m of 0.97 g/t Au, including 106.9 m of 1.36 g/t Au and 2.0 m of 15.45 g/t Au, DDRCCC-26-125 which returned 94.5 m of 1.62 g/t Au including 2.0 m of 11.85 g/t Au, and a separate interval of 197.0 m of 1.06 g/t Au including 2.0 m of 9.95 g/t Au, and DDRCCC-26-126 which returned 153.1 m of 1.33 g/t Au, including 110.0 m of 1.63 g/t Au and 2.0 m of 12.35 g/t Au.
Currently, six drills are turning across the project with the goal of expanding on known gold mineralization and defining new mineralization. So far this year a total of approximately 17,600 metres have been completed in 30 drill holes at the Blackjack and Rhosgobel deposits as part of the fully-funded 60,000 metres drill program planned for 2026. Assays are pending for all remaining holes.
"These results continue to demonstrate the impressive scale, continuity and high-grade nature of the Blackjack gold deposit and further strengthen our confidence in the overall growth potential of the RC Gold Project," said Cor Coe, Director and CEO of Sitka Gold Corp. "The first holes completed this year at Blackjack have returned several broad, high-grade gold intercepts that highlight the robust nature of the mineralization and continue to expand the known limits of this wide-open deposit. Furthermore, we have now completed more than 18,000 metres of additional drilling at Blackjack since the most recent resource estimate was published in early 2025. For perspective, the current resource estimate of 1.29 million ounces of indicated gold grading 1.01 g/t gold and 1.04 million ounces of inferred gold grading 0.94 g/t gold* was based on 18,800 metres of drilling, meaning we have now effectively doubled the amount of drilling completed since that estimate was calculated. With six drills currently operating and only a portion of our fully funded 60,000 metre drill program completed, we expect a steady flow of results from Blackjack, Rhosgobel and several additional targets as we continue advancing one of Yukon's largest and fastest-growing gold systems."
*see Table A in the About the RC Gold Project section below
Figure 1: Plan map of drilling completed at the Blackjack deposit, highlighting results from drill holes reported in this news release. Over 18,000 metres of drilling across 40 drill holes has been completed in expansion drilling at Blackjack since the last MRE was published in January 2025.
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Figure 2: Cross section of DDRCCC-26-123 and DDRCCC-26-126 showing broad high-grade gold intervals intercepted in the latest drilling at Blackjack.
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Figure 3: Cross section of DDRCCC-26-125 showing broad high-grade gold intervals intercepted in the latest drilling at Blackjack.
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Figure 4: Examples of visible gold observed in DDRCCC-26-122 (564.83m), DDRCCC-26-123 (243.75m), DDRCCC-26-125 (557.13m), and DDRCCC-26-126 (266.53m). Observations of visible gold are common in the drill core across the Clear Creek Intrusive Complex.
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The 2026 drill program continues to successfully intersect broad zones of Reduced Intrusion-Related Gold mineralization at the Blackjack and Rhosgobel deposits and continues to expand and define the known gold mineralization at each area. Visible gold* has been observed associated with the RIRGS mineralization in all but one drill hole at both targets. The program will continue to define and expand these broad zones of mineralization as well as target new zones of previously defined mineralization such as the Pukelman/Contact zones, Saddle zone and Bear Paw Breccia zone.
* While visible gold observations are very encouraging and confirm the presence of gold mineralization, they are not intended to imply potential gold grades. Gold assays will be published after they are received from the lab for mineralized intervals in which visible gold particles were noted.
Figure 5: Longitudinal section showing locations of several of the intrusion targets and the current gold resources within the Clear Creek Intrusive Complex. A 60,000 metres diamond drilling program planned for 2026 will focus on further expansion of the 2 km long Blackjack-Eiger area with 15,000 metres of drilling. An additional 30,000 metres of drilling is planned at Rhosgobel to follow up on the initial diamond drilling conducted by Sitka in 2025. 10,000 metres of drilling has been allocated for the Pukelman-Contact zone and 5,000 metres of drilling will follow up on initial drilling results from Bear Paw and test other high-priority targets.
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Figure 6*: A plan map of the Clear Creek Intrusive Complex (CCIC) showing the updated resource areas at Blackjack and Eiger, and the six additional areas that have drill targets indicated by the mauve hatched areas. The map highlights the numerous drill targets that Sitka has outlined within the CCIC which all are connected by the road network on the project and occur in an area measuring five (5) km north-south and twelve (12) km east-west. Additional areas highlighted by strong gold in soil anomalies are being advanced to the drill ready stage with additional geological work planned in 2026.
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Sitka's 100% owned, flagship RC Gold Project consists of a 447 square kilometre contiguous district-scale land package located in the heart of Yukon's Tombstone Gold Belt. The project is located approximately 100 kilometres east of Dawson City, which has a 5,000 foot paved runway, and is accessed via a secondary gravel road from the Klondike Highway which is usable year-round and is an approximate 2 hour drive from Dawson City. It is one of the largest consolidated land packages strategically positioned mid-way between the Eagle Gold Mine and the past producing Brewery Creek Gold Mine.
The RC Project hosts an indicated MRE of 1,291,000 ounces of gold and an inferred MRE of 3,829,000 ounces of gold (see Table A below) hosted within three at surface, road-accessible pit constrained deposits. In addition to gold resources, the Rhosgobel deposit also hosts 2,926,000 ounces of silver and 51,345 tonnes of tungsten trioxide (see Table B below). The 60,000 metre drill program planned for 2026 is focused on expanding all three known deposits in addition to testing other high potential targets in close proximity to the current resources.
* Notes for Blackjack Resources:
Mineral resource estimate prepared by Ronald G. Simpson of GeoSim Services Inc. with an effective date of January 21, 2025.
Mineral Resources are estimated consistent with CIM Definition Standards and reported in accordance with NI 43-101.
Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.
Mineral resources are constrained by an optimized pit shell using the following assumptions: US$2000/oz Au price; a 45° pit slope; assumed metallurgical recovery of 85%; mining costs of US$2.00 per tonne; processing costs of US$10.00 per tonne; G&A of US$4.00/t.
The base case cut-off of 0.3 g/t Au is believed to provide a reasonable margin over operating and sustaining costs for open-pit mining and processing.
Totals may not sum due to rounding.
** Notes for Rhosgobel and Eiger Resources:
Mineral resource estimate prepared by Ronald G. Simpson of GeoSim Services Inc. with an effective date of February 25, 2026
Mineral Resources are estimated consistent with CIM Definition Standards and reported in accordance with NI 43-101.
Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.
Mineral resources are constrained by an optimized pit shell using the following assumptions: US$3000/oz Au price; a 45° pit slope; assumed metallurgical recovery of 85%; mining costs of US$2.50 per tonne; processing costs of US$14.00 per tonne; G&A of US$4.00/t.
The base case cut-off of 0.3 g/t Au is based on a gold price of US$2500/oz and believed to provide a reasonable margin over operating and sustaining costs for open-pit mining and processing
Totals may not sum due to rounding.
All of these deposits begin at surface and are potentially open pit minable. Initial bottle roll metallurgical testing confirmed the non-refractory characteristics of the gold mineralization and returned gold extraction rates averaging around 85% for the Blackjack and Eiger deposits. Further metallurgical testwork in 2024 for Blackjack and Eiger returned recoveries ranging from 77.6 to 93% for gravity followed by cyanidation. Initial bottle roll testing for Rhosgobel has confirmed non-refractory characteristics of the gold mineralization with two composite samples returning gold recoveries of 89% and 96%. Additional metallurgical testing at Rhosgobel has returned an average gold recovery of 94.3% using conventional whole ore cyanidation leaching and an initial recovery of 84.7% tungsten in rougher concentrate using conventional floatation. Metallurgical testing for potential silver recovery has not yet been completed.
Notes:
Mineral resource estimate prepared by Ronald G. Simpson of GeoSim Services Inc. with an effective date of May 11, 2026.
Mineral Resources are estimated consistent with CIM Definition Standards and reported in accordance with NI 43-101.
Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.
Mineral resources are constrained by an optimized pit shell using the following assumptions: US$3000/oz Au price; a 45° pit slope; assumed metallurgical recovery of 85%; mining costs of US$2.50 per tonne; processing costs of US$14.00 per tonne; G&A of US$4.00/t.
The base case cut-off of 0.3 g/t Au is based on a gold price of $2500/oz and believed to provide a reasonable margin over operating and sustaining costs for open-pit mining and processing
Totals may not sum due to rounding.
For the purposes of the current resource model, it is assumed that a likely mill flowsheet would consist of a gravimetric, flotation, and cyanidation circuit.
Upcoming Events
Sitka Gold will be attending and/or presenting at the following events*:
TAKESTOCK Investor Series Stampede Special, Calgary, AB: June 30, 2026
Yukon Mining Alliance - Property Tours and Conference, Dawson City, Yukon: July 12-15, 2026
Diggers and Dealers: Kalgoorlie, Western Australia: August 3 - 5, 2026
*All events are subject to change.
About Sitka Gold Corp.
Sitka Gold Corp. is a well-funded mineral exploration company headquartered in Canada. The Company is managed by a team of experienced industry professionals and is focused on exploring for economically viable mineral deposits with its primary emphasis on gold, silver and copper mineral properties of merit. Sitka is currently advancing its 100% owned, 447 square kilometre flagship RC Gold Project located within the Tombstone Gold Belt in the Yukon Territory. The Company has also announced plans to spin-out the Alpha Gold Project in Nevada and the Burro Creek Gold and Silver Project in Arizona into a new discovery-focused exploration company to be named at a later date.
A 60,000-metre diamond drilling program planned for 2026 is currently underway at the Company's flagship RC Gold Project, located in Yukon Canada, where six diamond drill rigs are currently operating.
*For more detailed information on the Company's properties please visit our website at www.sitkagoldcorp.com.
Quality Assurance/Quality Control
On receipt from the drill site, the HTW/NTW-sized drill core was systematically logged for geological attributes, photographed and sampled at Sitka's core logging facility. Sample lengths as small as 0.3 m were used to isolate features of interest, otherwise a default 2 m downhole sample length was used. Each sample is identified by a unique sample tag number which is placed in the bag containing the core to be assayed. Core was cut in half lengthwise along a predetermined line, with one-half (same half, consistently) collected for analysis and one-half stored as a record. Standard reference materials, blanks and duplicate samples were inserted by Sitka personnel at regular intervals into the sample stream. Bagged samples were placed in secure bins to ensure integrity during transport. They were delivered by Sitka personnel or a contract expeditor to ALS Laboratories' preparatory facility in Whitehorse, Yukon, with analyses completed in North Vancouver.
ALS is accredited to ISO 17025:2005 UKAS ref. 4028 for its laboratory analysis. Samples were crushed by ALS to over 70 per cent passing below two millimetres and split using a riffle splitter. One-thousand-gram splits were pulverized to over 85 per cent passing below 75 microns. Gold determinations are by fire assay with an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) finish on 50 g subsamples of the prepared pulp (ALS code: Au-ICP-22). Any sample returning over 10 g/t gold was re-analyzed by fire assay with a gravimetric finish on a 50 g subsample (ALS code: Au-GRA21). In addition, a 51-element analysis was performed on a 0.5 g subsample of the prepared pulps by an aqua regia digestion followed by an inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) finish (ALS code: ME-MS41). Select intervals at the Rhosgobel Deposit were selected for additional XRF analysis on a lithium borate fusion (ALS code: XRF-15b) for WO3.
All other scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Gilles Dessureau, P.Geo., V.P. Exploration of the Company, and a Qualified Person (QP) as defined by National Instrument 43-101.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
SITKA GOLD CORP.
"Cor Coe"
CEO and Director
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements
This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward‐looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions and the Company's anticipated work programs.
These forward‐looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market uncertainty and the results of the Company's anticipated work programs.
Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/302502
Source: Sitka Gold Corp.
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Alto Ingredients v 1. čtvrtletí zvýšila výnos z klíčových surovin na 53,4 % z 48,2 % díky vyšším cenám kukuřičného oleje a nižším nákladům na kukuřici. Pekin Campus zvedl výnos na 54 % z 48 %.
Key Takeaways Alto Ingredients lifted its return on essential ingredients to 53.4% from 48.2% a year earlier.Higher corn oil prices, driven by renewable biofuels demand, added $2.2 million to quarterly revenues.The Pekin Campus return improved to 54% from 48%, reflecting better byproduct economics. Alto Ingredients, Inc. (ALTO - Free Report) generated more value from every bushel of corn it processed in the first quarter of 2026, even as weather-related disruptions at its Pekin campus weighed on production volumes. The improvement reflected the company's ability to derive higher returns from its co-products while benefiting from lower feedstock costs.
The company’s consolidated return on essential ingredients, which measures co-product revenues relative to total corn costs consumed, increased to 53.4% in the first quarter of 2026 from 48.2% in the year-ago period. The improvement came even as the company faced softer demand and increased competition in high-quality alcohol markets.
Much of the improvement was driven by stronger pricing across Alto Ingredients’ co-product portfolio. In particular, higher corn oil prices, supported by demand from renewable biofuels producers, provided a $2.2 million boost to revenues during the quarter. At the same time, the company also benefited from lower corn costs, which further enhanced returns from its corn-processing operations.
The Pekin Campus accounted for a significant portion of the gains. Its essential ingredients return improved to 54% from 48% a year earlier, reflecting better economics across the company's mix of byproducts. With stronger co-product economics and a lower-cost grain environment, Alto Ingredients was able to extract greater value from the same underlying corn input.
The results highlight the importance of co-products in Alto Ingredients' corn-processing economics, with stronger pricing helping it derive greater value from each bushel of corn processed.
What Do the Latest Metrics Say About Alto Ingredients?Alto Ingredients, which competes with Green Plains Inc. (GPRE - Free Report) and MGP Ingredients, Inc. (MGPI - Free Report) , has seen its shares rally 352.3% in the past year compared with the industry’s 3% growth. Shares of Green Plains have risen 166.1%, while MGP Ingredients has declined 44.2% during the same period.
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From a valuation standpoint, Alto Ingredients’ forward price-to-sales ratio of 0.39 is lower than the industry’s average of 3. The company is trading at a discount to Green Plains (with a forward price-to-sales ratio of 0.53) and MGP Ingredients (0.70).
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The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Alto Ingredients’ current fiscal-year earnings per share (EPS) implies a year-over-year surge of 671.4%, while the consensus mark for the next fiscal year’s EPS implies growth of 53.7%.
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Alto Ingredients currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Booz Allen Hamilton odkoupí Ultra I&C Mission Solutions od Cobham Ultra Group za 720 milionů USD. Akvizice posílí jeho portfolio obranných technologií.
MCLEAN, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Booz Allen Hamilton (NYSE: BAH) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with the Cobham Ultra Group, an Advent portfolio company, to acquire its Ultra I&C Mission Solutions business (Ultra Mission Solutions) for $720 million. Ultra Mission Solutions is a defense technology business specializing in mission‑critical software, encryption, and edge‑compute products.
"By integrating Ultra Mission Solutions into our robust portfolio, we are further strengthening our ability to rapidly build and field the commercial products that will keep America ahead,” said Horacio Rozanski, Chairman and CEO of Booz Allen.
Share As global threats intensify, commercial technologies have become increasingly central to modern warfighting. The U.S. and its allies require solutions that seamlessly integrate this wave of new technologies to generate operational utility on the battlefield. Together, Booz Allen and Ultra Mission Solutions will provide an enhanced set of products to unlock this advantage for national security missions at greater speed and scale.
“Technological superiority is essential to U.S. national security, and maintaining our advantage requires a relentless focus on speed and outcomes,” said Horacio Rozanski, Chairman and CEO of Booz Allen. “Booz Allen is strategically investing to accelerate delivery of our defense tech products into national security missions. Now, by integrating Ultra Mission Solutions into our robust portfolio, we are further strengthening our ability to rapidly build and field the commercial products that will keep America ahead.”
For years, both Booz Allen and Ultra Mission Solutions have been focused on building products and capabilities that help warfighters integrate, secure, and operationalize technology at the edge and across domains. Booz Allen’s portfolio of AI-driven battle management, resilient communications, and edge infrastructure solutions—including the Modular Detachment Kit (MDK), EdgeXtend™ and Sit(x)®—will expand with Ultra Solutions’ mission-ready tech stack. Ultra Mission Solutions’ core offerings, including Apex, ADSI®, ACTS™, Rain™, and Knox™, unify command and control (C2), edge compute, secure data movement, and encryption into a modular architecture capable of operating in contested or disconnected environments. These solutions will now integrate into a unified platform available to national security clients worldwide.
“We are investing in reliable, scalable solutions that help unite the defense technology ecosystem. This combination provides a foundation for our continued investment to harness advantage from commercial technology innovation,” said Steve Escaravage, president of Booz Allen’s defense technology business.
The acquisition will enable increased product integration and commercially available solutions accessible through outcomes-based procurement, Foreign Military Sales (FMS), and other go-to-market channels.
“Our customers operate where failure isn't an option, and meeting that standard has always defined our work,” said Mladen Brkic, president of Ultra Mission Solutions. “As part of Booz Allen, we'll bring greater scale and investment to our employees, products and the critical technologies customers rely on in the most contested conditions and wherever the mission demands it.”
Booz Allen expects revenue from this acquisition to grow at a strong double-digit rate for the next several years with EBITDA margins well above 20%. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of Booz Allen’s fiscal year 2027 (ending September 30, 2026) and is subject to customary closing conditions. Following the closing of the transaction, Ultra Mission Solutions will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Booz Allen.
“Ultra Mission Solutions has established itself as a trusted partner to the U.S. military and its allies with a portfolio of capabilities designed for the next generation of national security missions,” said Mike Marshall, managing director at Advent. “We are proud to have invested in those leading-edge solutions and are confident that Booz Allen is the right home to scale that vision further."
Booz Allen retained Jefferies LLC as exclusive financial advisor, PwC as accounting and tax advisor, King & Spalding LLP as legal advisor, and Renaissance Strategic Advisors as strategic industry advisor. Ultra Mission Solutions and Advent retained Baird as exclusive financial advisor, KPMG as accounting and tax advisor, and Latham & Watkins LLP as legal advisor.
About Booz Allen Hamilton
Booz Allen is an advanced technology company. We build commercial-grade products and solutions for America’s most critical defense, civil, and national security priorities. For more information, visit www.boozallen.com. (NYSE: BAH)
About Ultra Mission Solutions
Ultra I&C Mission Solutions (Ultra Mission Solutions) is a defense technology business that develops mission-critical software, edge-compute, and encryption products that help warfighters integrate, secure, and operationalize data at the tactical edge. The business operates across three lines of business—Mission Software, Edge Compute, and Encryption Management—delivering AI-enabled command and control (C2), ruggedized multifunction processors, and modular encryption-management solutions for U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, and allied programs. An independent, U.S.-owned enterprise with over 100 years of heritage, Ultra Mission Solutions employs approximately 220 people, including roughly 135 specialized engineers, across five U.S. facilities, with its headquarters in Austin, Texas.
About Advent
Advent is a leading global private equity investor committed to working in partnership with management teams, entrepreneurs, and founders to help transform businesses. With 16 offices across five continents, we oversee more than USD $100 billion in assets under management* and have made 448 investments across 44 countries. Since our founding in 1984, we have developed specialist market expertise across our five core sectors: business & financial services, consumer, healthcare, industrial, and technology. This approach is bolstered by our deep sub-sector knowledge, which informs every aspect of our investment strategy, from sourcing opportunities to working in partnership with management to execute value creation plans.
Advent has a long-established investment strategy in the defense sector, where it has consistently backed businesses supporting national security priorities. Since 2020, Advent has invested more than $15 billion enterprise value across the global defense sector, including investments in Cobham, Ultra Electronics, Vantor, and Attalon.
*Assets under management (AUM) as of December 31, 2025. AUM includes assets attributable to Advent advisory clients as well as employee and third-party co-investment vehicles.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this release include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Examples of forward-looking statements include statements that do not directly relate to any historical or current fact. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “forecasts,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “outlook,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “preliminary,” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give you no assurance these expectations will prove to have been correct.
These forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in or implied by these forward-looking statements, including those factors discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026, which can be found at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. All such statements speak only as of the date made and, except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Worksport získal přímou investici za 1,20 USD na akcii, tedy přibližně dvojnásobek nedávné tržní ceny. Investor zároveň projevil zájem o další financování až do výše 10 milionů USD.
Major Investor Completes a Direct Investment Priced at $1.20 per Share - a Premium of More Than 100% to Recent Trading Levels
The Investor Has Also Expressed Interest in Evaluating Up to $10 Million in Potential Additional Financing as Worksport Advances Its 2026 Growth Plan
WEST SENECA, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 18, 2026 / Worksport Ltd. (NASDAQ:WKSP) ("Worksport" or the "Company"), a U.S.-based innovator and manufacturer of hybrid and clean energy solutions primarily for the light truck, overlanding, and global consumer goods markets, today announced a premium-priced direct investment from a specialized private investment firm based in Jericho, New York.
The direct investment was priced at $1.20 per unit (each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one warrant), representing approximately a 100% premium to Worksport's recent trading price of $0.5983, underscoring the investor's confidence in the Company's outlook and long-term growth potential. The financing also includes warrants exercisable at $1.50 per share, further aligning the transaction with potential future upside in Worksport's common stock.
The investor has also expressed interest in evaluating additional financing transactions with Worksport of up to $10 million, subject to market conditions, available registration capacity, regulatory requirements, definitive documentation, and Company approval. There can be no assurance that any additional financing will be completed, and any such transaction would be subject to negotiation and execution of definitive agreements on terms acceptable to both parties.
Premium-Priced Capital Reflects Outside Confidence During a Key Execution Year
Worksport believes the structure of this investment is notable because it was priced at a substantial premium to the Company's recent market price. Management views the premium pricing, warrant structure, and additional financing interest as a constructive signal as Worksport continues executing against its 2026 commercial growth plan.
The investment was completed through a registered direct offering pursuant to the Company's effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3. The initial investment amount was $250,000. D. Boral Capital LLC acted as exclusive placement agent for the offering. Investors may review the terms and conditions of the offering and the warrants in the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K which will be filed with the SEC.
This announcement follows several recent Worksport milestones. The Company reported Q1 2026 net sales of $3.3 million, up 47.9% year over year, and gross profit of approximately $854,000, up 115.5% year over year, with gross margin improving to 26%. Worksport has also reiterated its target of reaching initial operational cash-flow positivity within 2026, driven by a quarterly revenue goal of $9M with 35% gross margins.
Worksport's recent growth plan is supported by several active business drivers, including expanded tonneau cover sales, the launch of the Company's new Nexus tonneau cover, early commercialization of SOLIS and COR, and broader B2B and B2C distribution growth. The Company also recently announced a distribution relationship with Tri-State Enterprises, projected by Worksport to become a seven-figure annual account.
In addition to its core tonneau and clean-energy product strategy, Worksport recently announced that its subsidiary, Terravis Energy, secured a newly issued U.S. patent for its ZeroFrost™ heat-pump technology. Management believes this patent strengthens the Company's long-term intellectual property position while preserving potential upside beyond Worksport's core 2026 revenue drivers.
CEO Commentary
"We believe this premium-priced investment sends an important message at a pivotal time for Worksport," said Steven Rossi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Worksport. "Our shares have been trading at levels that we believe do not reflect the commercial progress, product portfolio, manufacturing platform, and revenue trajectory we are building. A direct investment priced at $1.20 per share, paired with $1.50 warrants and interest in evaluating up to $10 million in total financing, represents a strong vote of confidence in our direction."
Mr. Rossi continued, "The dollar amount of this initial investment is not the headline. The headline is that Worksport secured capital at a substantial premium to the market while continuing to attract interest from investors who recognize the scale of the opportunity ahead. We are focused on converting our inventory, expanding distribution, increasing sales velocity, launching high-margin products, and executing toward operational cash flow positivity. Our objective remains clear: build a stronger company, create long-term shareholder value, and position Worksport for sustained growth."
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About Worksport
Worksport Ltd. (NASDAQ:WKSP), through its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and owns the intellectual property on a variety of tonneau covers, solar integrations, portable power systems, and clean heating & cooling solutions. Worksport's hard-folding cover, designed and manufactured in-house, is compatible with all major truck models and is gaining traction with newer truck makers including the electric vehicle (EV) sector. Worksport seeks to capitalize on the growing shift of consumer mindsets towards clean energy integrations with its proprietary solar solutions, mobile energy storage systems (ESS), and Cold-Climate Heat Pump (CCHP) technology. Terravis Energy's website is terravisenergy.com.
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The Company does not endorse, ensure the accuracy of, or accept any responsibility for any content on these third-party websites other than content published by the Company. Investors and others should note that the Company announces material financial information to our investors using our investor relations website, press releases, Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings, and public conference calls and webcasts. The Company also uses social media to announce Company news and other information. The Company encourages investors, the media, and others to review the information the Company publishes on social media. The Company does not selectively disclose material non-public information on social media. If there is any significant financial information, the Company will release it broadly to the public through a press release or SEC filing prior to publishing it on social media.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information contained herein may contain "forward‐looking statements." Forward‐looking statements reflect the current view about future events. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "scheduled," "expect," "future," "intend," "plan," "project," "envisioned," "should," or the negative of these terms and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, identify forward‐looking statements. These statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial situation may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: (i) supply chain delays; (ii) acceptance of our products by consumers; (iii) delays in or nonacceptance by third parties to sell our products; (iv) competition from other producers of similar products; and (v) with respect to any potential additional financing transactions, there can be no assurance that any such transactions will be consummated, and any such transactions would be subject to, among other things, market conditions, available shelf registration capacity, applicable regulatory requirements (including Nasdaq listing rules), negotiation and execution of definitive documentation on mutually acceptable terms, and approval by the Company's Board of Directors. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company's filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov. As a result of these matters, changes in facts, assumptions not being realized or other circumstances, the Company's actual results may differ materially from the expected results discussed in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The forward-looking statements made in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
Worksport oznámil rekordní hrubou marži kolem 35 % v květnu a nového distribučního partnera Meyer Distributing. Firma zároveň cílí na více než 36 mil. USD roční příležitosti v příjmech.
Company announces three major operating inflections: preliminary May record breaking gross margin of approximately 35% (up 660 Basis Points), a new Meyer Distributing relationship, and a $36M+ 12-month revenue opportunity supported by accelerating B2C and B2B growth.
The announcement follows last week's premium-priced direct investment and highlights the distribution scale, margin expansion, and revenue drivers that management believes lead the Company's path toward near-term operational cash-flow positivity.
WEST SENECA, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 22, 2026 / Worksport Ltd. (NASDAQ:WKSP) ("Worksport" or the "Company"), a U.S.-based innovator and manufacturer of hybrid and clean energy solutions primarily for the light truck, overlanding, and global consumer goods markets, today announced three new commercial and operational developments that management believes mark a potential inflection point in Worksport's 2026 growth plan.
The Company announced that it has secured Meyer Distributing as a new national distribution partner, achieved 35% gross margin in May 2026 (up from 28.4% in Q1 2026), and is now targeting a $36 million+ 12-month revenue opportunity supported by increasing B2C activity, expanding B2B distribution, newly launched products, and improving operating leverage.
The announcement follows Worksport's recently completed premium-priced direct investment, which the Company believes reflected investor confidence in its strategic direction. With annualized revenue currently tracking above $20 million and momentum continuing to build during the second quarter, management believes the Company is entering the second half of 2026 with a significantly stronger commercial and operating foundation.
Preliminary May Gross Margin Reaches Approximately 35%
Worksport today announced that it achieved approximately 35% gross margin in May 2026, representing a new record margin metric for the company, based on preliminary unaudited internal results. This represents continued margin improvement from approximately 11% gross margin in December 2024 and approximately 30% gross margin in December 2025. Gross margin has increased despite U.S. aluminum prices rising approximately 50% in two years. Management believes any future decline in aluminum prices could provide additional gross margin expansion. .
Management believes the improvement reflects continued progress in production efficiency, cost discipline, pricing strength, and operating scale. The margin milestone is important because, at higher gross margins, each incremental dollar of revenue can contribute more meaningfully toward covering fixed operating costs.
Management estimates that, assuming an approximate 35% gross margin level, Worksport would need to generate roughly $9 million in quarterly revenue to achieve operational cash-flow positivity. Worksport continues to target initial operational cash-flow positivity within 2026, supported by increased sales velocity and gross margins, expanding B2B distribution, ongoing B2C demand, and execution across its product portfolio.
New Meyer Distributing Relationship Expands Worksport's B2B Reach
Worksport also announced that it has secured Meyer Distributing as its first multinational distribution partner and has received an initial purchase order for Worksport tonneau covers. Meyer Distributing is one of North America's leading automotive aftermarket wholesale distribution networks, serving dealers across the United States, Canada, and international markets with over 3.5 million sq. ft. of warehouse space. Meyer was also recognized by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) as Warehouse Distributor of the Year in 2010, 2015, and 2017.
For Worksport, the Meyer relationship represents more than an initial order. It marks a significant B2B milestone that gives the Company access to a larger base of recurring orders from thousands of dealers, installers, and aftermarket resellers across USA and Canada, at a time when Worksport is expanding production, launching new products, and targeting meaningful revenue growth in 2026.
The Company believes the addition of Meyer-combined with recently announced Tri-State Enterprises traction and existing wholesale and dealer relationships including Patriot Auto, and Worksport's expanding dealer network-strengthens its commercial platform and supports a larger recurring revenue opportunity as Worksport products move through established aftermarket sales channels.
$36M+ Annualized Revenue Opportunity Supported by B2C and B2B Growth
Worksport's B2C activity is currently tracking near approximately $1 million per month, or approximately $12 million annualized. Separately, B2B sales were recently tracking near approximately $0.7 million per month, or approximately $8.4 million annualized.
With the addition of Meyer Distributing, recent Tri-State momentum, existing channel relationships, and continued dealer network expansion, management believes B2B annualized revenue potential can expand toward $24 million or more over the next 12 months following activation and ramp-up of these relationships.
When combined with current B2C activity, this supports a total annualized revenue opportunity of approximately $36 million or more. Management believes this opportunity aligns with Worksport's previously stated near-term cash-flow positivity goals and reflects a more scalable commercial base than the Company had entering the year.
CEO Commentary
"We believe Worksport is entering a very different phase of the business," said Steven Rossi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Worksport. "Last week's investment reflected external confidence in our direction. Today's update demonstrates an operating foundation: expanding distribution, improving gross margins, compelling B2C activity, and a clear revenue path toward near-term operational cash-flow positivity."
Mr. Rossi added, "The Meyer relationship is an important step for our B2B strategy. Meyer is a respected name in automotive aftermarket distribution, and we believe its reach can help Worksport products move through a much larger dealer and installer network over time. Combined with Tri-State, Patriot Auto, AllPro, our expanding dealer base, and our new Nexus cover, we believe the commercial architecture needed to scale is coming together."
Mr. Rossi concluded, "At approximately 35% gross margin, Worksport looks very different than it did a year ago. Each additional dollar of revenue has more potential impact. Our objective remains clear: increase sales velocity, expand margins, convert inventory, grow distribution, and pursue initial operational cash-flow positivity within 2026. We believe the inflection point we have been working toward is beginning to take shape."
Worksport intends to continue updating shareholders as B2B onboarding, distributor sell-through, NEXUS adoption, margin progression, and overall revenue conversion progress through 2026.
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About Worksport
Worksport Ltd. (Nasdaq: WKSP), through its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and owns the intellectual property on a variety of tonneau covers, solar integrations, portable power systems, and clean heating & cooling solutions. Worksport's hard-folding cover, designed and manufactured in-house, is compatible with all major truck models and is gaining traction with newer truck makers including the electric vehicle (EV) sector. Worksport seeks to capitalize on the growing shift of consumer mindsets towards clean energy integrations with its proprietary solar solutions, mobile energy storage systems (ESS), and Cold-Climate Heat Pump (CCHP) technology. Terravis Energy's website is terravisenergy.com.
Connect with Worksport
Please follow the Company's social media accounts on X (previously Twitter), Facebook,
LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram, the links of which are links to external third-party websites, as well as sign up for the Company's newsletters at investors.worksport.com.
Social Media Disclaimer
The Company does not endorse, ensure the accuracy of, or accept any responsibility for any content on these third-party websites other than content published by the Company. Investors and others should note that the Company announces material financial information to our investors using our investor relations website, press releases, Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings, and public conference calls and webcasts. The Company also uses social media to announce Company news and other information. The Company encourages investors, the media, and others to review the information the Company publishes on social media. The Company does not selectively disclose material non-public information on social media. If there is any significant financial information, the Company will release it broadly to the public through a press release or SEC filing prior to publishing it on social media.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information contained herein may contain "forward‐looking statements." Forward‐looking statements reflect the current view about future events. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "scheduled," "expect," "future," "intend," "plan," "project," "envisioned," "should," or the negative of these terms and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, identify forward‐looking statements. These statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial situation may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: (i) supply chain delays; (ii) acceptance of our products by consumers; (iii) delays in or nonacceptance by third parties to sell our products; (iv) competition from other producers of similar products; and (v) with respect to any potential additional financing transactions, there can be no assurance that any such transactions will be consummated, and any such transactions would be subject to, among other things, market conditions, available shelf registration capacity, applicable regulatory requirements (including Nasdaq listing rules), negotiation and execution of definitive documentation on mutually acceptable terms, and approval by the Company's Board of Directors. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company's filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov. As a result of these matters, changes in facts, assumptions not being realized or other circumstances, the Company's actual results may differ materially from the expected results discussed in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The forward-looking statements made in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
Petrobras chce do září obnovit výstavbu továrny na hnojiva UFN-III v Tres Lagoas, která má po dokončení stát 1 miliardu dolarů. Spuštění provozu plánuje na rok 2029.
A drone view shows the building of the Brazil's state-run oil company Petrobras, amid a workers strike, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil December 19, 2025. REUTERS/Pilar Olivares/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
CompaniesRIO DE JANEIRO, June 18 (Reuters) - Brazil's state-run oil firm Petrobras (PETR3.SA), opens new tab plans to resume construction of a fertilizer plant in Mato Grosso do Sul state by September, in another move to reduce the country's dependence on imports, executive William Franca said on Thursday.
Construction of the UFN-III fertilizer plant in Tres Lagoas, which will cost $1 billion to finish, has been on hold since 2015.
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The company aims to begin operations in 2029, Franca, Petrobras' director of industrial processes and products, told Reuters.
The nitrogen fertilizer plant will have production capacity of 3,600 metric tons per day of urea and 2,200 tons per day of ammonia.
The Tres Lagoas location is considered strategic due to its proximity to major agribusiness consumer hubs such as the states of Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Goias, Parana and Sao Paulo.
The resumption is part of a broader Petrobras strategy to reduce Brazil's dependence on imported fertilizers. The company has reactivated other nitrogen fertilizer units in Parana, Bahia and Sergipe.
"This plant alone should reduce urea imports by 12%. With the other plants combined, that reduction could reach 35%," Franca said.
PRESSURE MAY EASE ON REFINERIESFollowing a U.S.-Iran interim agreement to end the war between the countries, pressure is likely to decrease on Petrobras' refining operations, which have run at high levels to minimize fuel imports.
The refineries are operating at around 101% of capacity, and are expected to remain at that level through June, Franca said. Petrobras increased processing during the war to cut the need for imports.
Under a more stable scenario, the company intends to resume scheduled maintenance shutdowns that had been postponed, Franca said, without providing details.
"It's not possible to stay above 100% all the time. We postponed some shutdowns because of the war, but we will mainly carry out some planned outages, especially in 2027, also due to regulatory requirements," he said.
Reporting by Rodrigo Viga Gaier; Writing by Fernando Cardoso; Editing by Mark Porter, Rod Nickel
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Petrobras schválila projekt za 1,2 mld. USD na výrobu bioQAV a obnovitelné nafty v rafinerii Presidente Bernardes. Výstavba má začít letos, komerční provoz je cílen na rok 2030 s kapacitou 15 000 barelů denně.
Key Takeaways Petrobras approved a $1.2B bioQAV and renewable diesel project at the Presidente Bernardes Refinery.PBR plans construction this year, with commercial operations targeted for 2030 and 15,000 bpd capacity.Petrobras included the project in its 2026-2030 Strategic Plan and approved final contracting to proceed. Petrobras (PBR - Free Report) has taken a significant step toward advancing sustainable energy production by approving a $1.2 billion investment to develop a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the production of renewable jet fuel (bioQAV) and renewable diesel, according to Reuters. The project represents one of the most important renewable fuel initiatives in Latin America and reinforces Petrobras' commitment to balancing traditional energy operations with emerging low-carbon solutions.
The newly approved investment aligns with Petrobras' long-term strategic vision and positions it at the forefront of the growing global demand for cleaner transportation fuels. As governments, airlines and industries seek to reduce carbon emissions, renewable aviation and diesel fuels are becoming increasingly critical components of the worldwide energy transition.
New BioQAV and Renewable Diesel Plant Planned for Sao Paulo StateThe renewable fuel facility will be constructed at Petrobras' Presidente Bernardes Refinery in the state of São Paulo, one of the company's most important refining complexes. The location offers strategic advantages, including existing infrastructure, logistical connectivity and access to major domestic and international fuel markets.
According to company plans, construction is expected to begin during the current year, while commercial operations are scheduled to commence in 2030. Once operational, the plant will have the capacity to produce up to 15,000 barrels per day of renewable fuels, making it a major contributor to Brazil's sustainable fuel production capacity.
The project was already incorporated into Petrobras' 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, demonstrating that renewable energy investments remain a central component of its growth strategy.
Growing Demand for Renewable Jet Fuel Drives InvestmentThe aviation industry is under increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable jet fuel, commonly referred to as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (“SAF”) or bioQAV in Brazil, has emerged as one of the most promising solutions for decarbonizing air transportation.
Unlike conventional jet fuel derived solely from fossil sources, renewable jet fuel can significantly lower lifecycle carbon emissions while remaining compatible with existing aircraft engines and airport infrastructure. This compatibility allows airlines to reduce environmental impact without requiring major fleet modifications.
By investing heavily in bioQAV production, Petrobras is positioning itself to capitalize on rising global demand. International aviation organizations, regulators and airlines are establishing ambitious targets for SAF adoption, creating substantial long-term market opportunities for producers capable of delivering large-scale supply.
Renewable Diesel Expands Petrobras' Sustainable Fuel PortfolioIn addition to renewable aviation fuel, the new facility will produce substantial volumes of renewable diesel, a fuel that offers significant environmental benefits compared with traditional petroleum-based diesel.
Renewable diesel is manufactured using renewable feedstocks and can be utilized within existing diesel engines and distribution systems. The fuel provides lower emissions while maintaining performance standards required by transportation, industrial and commercial sectors.
As global demand for cleaner transportation fuels continues to expand, renewable diesel is expected to play a critical role in helping countries meet climate commitments while ensuring reliable energy supplies. Petrobras' investment demonstrates confidence in the long-term growth prospects of this market segment.
Strategic Importance of the Presidente Bernardes Refinery ProjectThe selection of the Presidente Bernardes Refinery as the project site highlights Petrobras' strategy of leveraging existing assets to support energy transition goals. Integrating renewable fuel production within an established refining complex enables operational efficiencies, optimized logistics and enhanced cost competitiveness.
The refinery has long served as a cornerstone of Petrobras' downstream operations. The addition of renewable fuel capabilities transforms the site into a more diversified energy hub capable of supporting both traditional and emerging fuel markets.
This approach reflects a broader trend among global energy companies, many of which are adapting existing refining infrastructure to accommodate renewable fuel production rather than constructing entirely new facilities from scratch.
Petrobras' 2026-2030 Strategic Plan Emphasizes SustainabilityThe renewable fuel project forms part of Petrobras' broader strategy to navigate evolving energy markets while maintaining profitability and competitiveness. The company's 2026-2030 strategic roadmap outlines substantial investments aimed at improving operational efficiency, expanding lower-carbon businesses and strengthening long-term value creation.
As environmental regulations tighten worldwide and customer preferences increasingly favor sustainable products, investments in renewable fuels offer Petrobras an opportunity to diversify revenue streams while supporting national and international decarbonization efforts.
As per the news, the board's approval marks a critical milestone, allowing Petrobras to advance into the final contracting phase before construction activities begin.
Economic Benefits for Brazil and the Renewable Energy SectorBeyond environmental advantages, the project is expected to generate significant economic benefits. Large-scale infrastructure developments typically create employment opportunities throughout planning, construction and operational phases.
The investment may also stimulate growth across Brazil's renewable energy supply chain, including feedstock production, logistics, engineering services and technology development. Such initiatives can strengthen Brazil's position as a leading participant in the global renewable fuels market.
Furthermore, increased domestic production of renewable fuels could enhance energy security while reducing dependence on imported sustainable fuel supplies as demand accelerates in the coming decades.
Global Renewable Fuel Market Continues to ExpandThe worldwide renewable fuel market is experiencing rapid growth as industries seek practical pathways to reduce emissions. Aviation, freight transportation, shipping and industrial sectors are increasingly incorporating renewable fuel solutions into their sustainability strategies.
Analysts project continued expansion in both renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel markets due to supportive government policies, corporate climate commitments and technological advancements. Producers capable of achieving commercial-scale output are expected to benefit from strong demand fundamentals over the long term.
Petrobras' decision to invest $1.2 billion underscores confidence in these market dynamics and reflects its intention to remain a key player in the evolving global energy landscape.
A Landmark Step Toward a Lower-Carbon FutureThe approval of Petrobras' renewable fuel plant represents a landmark development for Brazil's energy sector. With planned production of up to 15,000 barrels per day of bioQAV and renewable diesel, the facility will become an important contributor to sustainable fuel availability in the region.
As construction moves forward and final contracts are executed, the project stands as a powerful example of how major energy companies are adapting to changing market demands. By combining industrial expertise, strategic infrastructure and substantial investment, Petrobras is laying the foundation for a more diversified and lower-carbon energy future while strengthening its competitive position in the global renewable fuels market.
PBR's Zacks Rank & Key PicksCurrently, PBR has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Investors interested in the energy sector might look at some better-ranked stocks like Delek US Holdings (DK - Free Report) , Phillips 66 (PSX - Free Report) and Murphy USA (MUSA - Free Report) , sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) each at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Delek US is valued at $2.54 billion. It is a U.S.-based downstream energy company that focuses on refining crude oil and distributing petroleum products. Headquartered in Brentwood, TN, Delek US Holdings operates through two main segments: refining and logistics.
Phillips 66 is valued at $66.61 billion. It is a diversified energy company that refines crude oil, markets petroleum products, and operates midstream, chemicals, and renewable fuels businesses. Phillips 66 operates across the United States and internationally.
Murphy USA is valued at $10.18 billion. The company is one of the largest independent gasoline and convenience store retailers in the United States, operating a network of stores primarily located near Walmart locations. Murphy USA focuses on offering low-cost fuel and everyday convenience products, supported by a strong loyalty program and disciplined capital-allocation strategy.
Nebius má po 1. čtvrtletí 2026 v hotovosti 9,3 mld. USD a zvýšil capex pro rok 2026 na 20–25 mld. USD. Firma říká, že poptávka převyšuje nabídku a volná kapacita je vyprodaná.
Key Takeaways Nebius ended Q1 2026 with $9.3B in cash after debt, equity and upfront-payment inflows.Nebius lifted 2026 capex guidance to $20B-$25B as it accelerates capacity expansion.Nebius says demand exceeds supply, available capacity is selling out and 2027 commitments are in place. Nebius Group N.V. (NBIS - Free Report) has built a sturdy cash profile with $9.3 billion in cash and cash equivalents at the end of the first quarter of 2026. A strong cash position offers ample financial flexibility to pursue expansion, both organic and inorganic.
The cash build was driven by various financial initiatives, including a $4.3 billion convertible debt raise (gross proceeds) and a $2 billion equity investment from NVIDIA, alongside customer upfront payments that boosted operating cash flow to $2.3 billion for the quarter.
This fortified balance sheet comes at a time when Nebius is rapidly focused on capacity expansion, which has led to a sharp acceleration in capital expenditures. Capex for 2026 is now expected to be $20-$25 billion, up from its earlier guidance of $16-$20 billion.
Management noted that the capacity deployment is tied to visibility into future demand, particularly for 2027, for which it already has customer commitments in place. The company also noted that it is already selling out the available capacity, with demand consistently exceeding supply, implying that spending is less speculative and more about meeting anticipated workloads.
Importantly, Nebius is using various sources to fund capacity expansion. The company is raising capital through asset-backed financing buoyed by its contracts with Meta and Microsoft (MSFT - Free Report) . Other financing options include corporate-level debt and an at-the-market program.
With demand continuing to exceed supply and most capacity already sold out, Nebius appears well positioned to convert its cash strength into capacity expansion. While execution remains key, the company’s sizable cash and funding flexibility provide a strong foundation to scale its AI cloud platform. However, the opportunity is unfolding in a highly competitive space with tech giants and pure plays like CoreWeave (CRWV - Free Report) aggressively focused on capacity build to capture a rapidly developing market.
Taking a Look at Competitors’ Financial ResourcesCoreWeave is shoring up its financial resources to support AI infrastructure buildouts. At the first quarter-end, the company had more than $3.3 billion in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and marketable securities, while securing more than $20 billion in debt and equity capital financing year to date (as announced on the last earnings call), widening access to capital while lowering its cost of debt.
Like NBIS, the company also raised $2 billion in equity tied to its NVIDIA partnership. CRWV has dramatically accelerated investments to keep up with AI demand. 2026 capital expenditures are projected to be between $31 billion and $35 billion, reflecting the broad scale of its AI infrastructure ambitions.
Microsoft’s financial resources are stupendous. As of March 31, 2026, cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments stood at $78.3 billion. For the last reported quarter, the company generated $46.7 billion in operating cash flow, up 26% year over year, while free cash flow stood at $15.8 billion despite accelerated capital spending. MSFT is scaling investments, with fiscal third-quarter capital expenditures hovering at $31.9 billion. Fiscal fourth-quarter capex is expected to exceed more than $40 billion, reflecting the continued buildout of AI infrastructure.
For calendar 2026, Microsoft plans to invest approximately $190 billion in capex, including about $25 billion attributed to component pricing pressures, underscoring both scale and inflationary pressures in AI infrastructure. Increasing capital intensity remains a key concern for investors. MSFT's long-term debt (including the current portion) was $40.3 billion as of March 31, 2026.
NBIS Price Performance, Valuation and EstimatesShares of Nebius are up 40.6% in the past month compared with the Internet – Software and Services industry’s 11.3% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
On a forward price-to-sales basis, NBIS’ shares are trading at 10.62X, above the Internet Software Services industry’s 4.53X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NBIS’ earnings for 2026 has been revised upwards over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
NBIS currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Nebius Group (NBIS 6.44%) has come a long way in a short time. The company was formed in 2024, emerging from the remnants of the Dutch holding company Yandex N.V., which was primarily a Russian internet company. But after Russia invaded Ukraine and Russian companies faced sanctions, Yandex shed its Russian assets and rebranded as Nebius, an artificial intelligence cloud services company.
The newly formed Nebius began trading on Nasdaq on Oct. 21, 2024, and has been one of the biggest winners in the market ever since. The stock is up 1,320% since Nebius began trading, by far outperforming the overall market as investors recognized the critical role that data centers and computing capacity will have on the growth of AI. Shares jumped nearly 30% in the last week and are challenging the $300 mark.
Now, Nebius is getting some more good news -- starting June 22, it will be a member of the Nasdaq-100 index, meaning the stock will be scooped up by many index funds, potentially pushing shares even higher.
Let’s take a closer look at Nebius and why it’s been so popular.
Image source: The Motley Fool.
About Nebius stockNebius appears to have the right business model at the perfect time. The company provides cloud computing and graphics processing unit (GPU) capacity for running and training AI workloads.
The company operated seven data centers in North America, Europe, and Israel by the end of 2025, and has plans to operate 16 by the end of this year.
It also has some key partnerships. In March, Nebius announced a $2 billion investment from Nvidia to scale more than 5 gigawatts of next-generation full-stack AI capacity using Nvidia’s computing platform.
Nebius also has a five-year AI infrastructure deal with Microsoft, valued at up to $19.4 billion, to supply dedicated GPU capacity and more than 100,000 Nvidia GPUs. And it has commitments from Meta Platforms for additional AI infrastructure capacity, potentially valued at up to $27 billion.
Earnings for the first quarter included revenue of $399 million, up 684% from a year ago, and net income from operations of $621.2 million, up from a loss of $104.3 million in the first quarter of 2025.
Nebius also completed its acquisition of Eigen AI on June 10. Eigen, an inference and model optimization company, is expected to help Nebius improve its token factory inference platform, providing customers with faster time to production and the ability to adopt new models more quickly.
Management says the company is on track to see $3 billion to $3.4 billion in revenue this year, and between $7 billion and $9 billion in annual recurring revenue (ARR). The company had $9.3 billion in cash on hand at the end of the first quarter and raised $6.3 billion in the quarter through convertible notes and the Nvidia investment.
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“We continue to see unprecedented demand across the market,” CEO Arkady Volozh said. “Compute and cloud needs are vastly exceeding capacity as more industries embrace AI and companies move beyond experimentation to real-world applications. We are seeing this demand firsthand and are capturing it with our full-stack AI-native cloud.”
About the Nasdaq-100The Nasdaq-100 tracks the 100 largest non-financial companies on the Nasdaq exchange, using a modified market-cap weighting system that caps the largest names to prevent the index from becoming overconcentrated. There are many exchange-traded funds that track the Nasdaq-100, including the Invesco QQQ Trust, or the Direxion Nasdaq-100 Equal Weighted Index ETF.
Nasdaq announced on June 11 that it was adding Nebius, Astera Labs, CoreWeave, Rocket Lab, and Teradyne to the index. The index will drop Charter Communications, Cognizant Technology Solutions, Insmed, Verisk Analytics, and Zscaler.
Nebius stock jumped nearly 10% on the announcement.
Patrick Sanders has positions in Invesco QQQ Trust, Nebius Group, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, Rocket Lab, Teradyne, Verisk Analytics, and Zscaler. The Motley Fool recommends Astera Labs, Cognizant Technology Solutions, and Nasdaq. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
CBRE hlásí historicky nízkou neobsazenost datacenter a rostoucí ceny, zatímco Nebius uvedl tržby 399 milionů USD, backlog přes 50 miliard USD a kapacitu nad 3,5 GW.
Artificial intelligence is creating a new kind of infrastructure race. While investors often focus on Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA | NVDA Price Prediction) chips or the latest AI models, the real bottleneck is increasingly becoming physical capacity — power, land, and data centers.
The latest global data center report from CBRE shows that demand continues to outpace supply across nearly every major market in the world. Vacancy rates have fallen to historic lows, pricing continues to rise, and new facilities are being leased before construction is complete. For investors, that creates a powerful backdrop for companies that already control large-scale AI infrastructure.
Few companies are positioned more directly at the center of that trend than Nebius Group (NASDAQ: NBIS).
The AI Infrastructure Crunch Is Getting Worse According to CBRE’s Q1 2026 Global Data Center Trends Report, North America remains the tightest data center market in the world, with overall vacancy rates falling to just 0.9%.
The largest markets are effectively sold out:
Market Vacancy Rate Northern Virginia 0.3% Atlanta 1.0% Dallas-Fort Worth 1.8% Chicago 2.2% Those numbers are key because vacancy is the industry’s inventory. When available capacity approaches zero, customers have fewer options and providers gain pricing power.
CBRE reported that the four largest North American markets absorbed 2.2 gigawatts (GW) of capacity over the last year, a 34% increase from the prior period. Dallas-Fort Worth offers perhaps the clearest example of the imbalance. Of the 716.7 megawatts currently under construction, 88% has already been pre-leased. Customers are reserving space before the buildings are finished because they cannot risk waiting.
The same trend is appearing globally. CBRE found average monthly colocation pricing reached approximately $403 per kilowatt in Singapore and roughly $340 to $350 in Tokyo. Capacity is becoming a premium asset.
According to the company’s first-quarter 2026 earnings release:
Revenue reached $399 million, up 684% year over year. AI cloud revenue expanded 841%. Contracted backlog exceeded $50 billion. Total power capacity surpassed 3.5 GW. Those backlog figures are particularly important because they represent long-term customer commitments rather than speculative forecasts.
Among the largest agreements are a reported $17.4 billion commitment from Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) through 2031 and a $27 billion five-year contract with Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META). Together, those deals alone represent infrastructure demand that stretches years into the future.
Power has become the limiting factor in AI expansion, and Nebius already controls capacity that many rivals are still attempting to secure.
Nvidia’s Backing Creates Another Advantage The second pillar of the bull case is access to GPUs. Nvidia holds an equity stake in Nebius. Because AI infrastructure growth depends on obtaining enough advanced processors to meet customer demand, Nebius benefits from a direct relationship with the company supplying much of the world’s AI computing hardware. Many cloud providers are left competing for limited GPU allocations,
Nebius stock has gained 239% year-to-date and 492% over the last 12 months. Yet even after that rally, shares trade at roughly five times management’s projected exit annual recurring revenue.
Granted, high-growth AI stocks carry risk. Execution, customer concentration, and valuation all matter. That said, the CBRE data suggests the underlying market conditions remain exceptionally favorable.
Key Takeaway In short, CBRE’s latest report confirms that the global shortage of AI-ready data center capacity is intensifying rather than easing. Vacancy rates remain near zero, demand continues to exceed new supply, and pricing is moving higher across major markets.
Nebius sits at the intersection of all three trends: AI demand, power availability, and GPU access. With revenue growing 684%, a $50 billion backlog already in place, and more than 3.5 GW of contracted power capacity, the company possesses assets that are becoming harder to find each quarter.
Ultimately, if the global AI infrastructure shortage persists through 2027 as CBRE’s data suggests, a further 40% gain for Nebius stock by the end of the year looks less like an aggressive target and more like a plausible outcome.
Nebius letos stoupl asi o 240 %, ale po 684% růstu tržeb na 399 milionů USD v prvním čtvrtletí je podle článku už drahý. Nvidia do něj letos investovala 2 miliardy USD.
Buying a stock in the midst of a red-hot rally can be risky because it may eventually run out of steam. It's particularly concerning when the valuation has already gotten out of control and no longer has a grounding in fundamentals.
That's the scenario that investors find themselves in with Nebius Group (NBIS 6.44%). The tech stock is up around 240% this year. It's generated incredible growth, attracted an investment from Nvidia, and still offers attractive long-term opportunities, but there's no denying the stock has become expensive.
Is the stock still a good buy right now, or are you better off just putting Nebius on your watch list?
Image source: Getty Images.
Why has Nebius' stock been taking off this year? Nebius is a Dutch-based tech company that's right at the heart of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. It is an AI cloud company that provides a platform for businesses to train and deploy AI. It serves a variety of sectors, including healthcare, financial services, and retail, among others.
A quick look at its results confirms the growth has been incredible. During the first three months of the year, the company reported $399 million in revenue, which is an increase of 684% year over year. Although its operating loss actually increased from the prior-year period, investors appear to be willing to overlook that given Nebius' incredible top-line growth and continued growth opportunities.
Plus, with Nvidia announcing a strategic partnership with Nebius earlier this year that includes a $2 billion investment, investors likely see that as a strong vote of confidence in its future.
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Can Nebius stock rise even higher? Due to its significant run-up in value, Nebius stock now trades at close to 90 times its trailing revenue. Even with tremendous growth ahead, it may be a steep price to pay for the stock, given that CoreWeave, a comparable business that helps tech giants train and run AI models, trades at less than 10 times sales.
At its current valuation, Nebius investors are paying for a lot of future growth, which means expectations will be high and potentially difficult to meet in upcoming earnings reports. Although Nebius has performed exceptionally well this year, I wouldn't buy it right now as there's considerable downside risk given how hot the stock has become. It may be a good idea to track the stock and keep an eye on it, but at an egregiously high premium, it could be running out of room to rise higher.
Redwire letos posílil o 80 % díky zájmu o vesmírný sektor a programu Pentagonu za 1,1 miliardy USD na drony. Ve 1. čtvrtletí tržby stouply o 58 % na 97 milionů USD a backlog dosáhl 498,1 milionu USD.
Shares of Redwire (RDW 4.79%) have surged 80% so far in 2026. The company is benefiting from increased interest in the space sector, especially amid SpaceX's much-awaited initial public offering (IPO) this month. Besides the excitement surrounding the space economy, the Pentagon's recent announcement of a $1.1 billion drone program has been another tailwind for Redwire's stock.
With the stock surging this year, investors may be wondering: Is it too late to buy? Here's what they should know about Redwire and its long-term outlook.
Redwire's space and drone businesses are growing Redwire has historically produced hardware, including sensors, solar arrays, and on-orbit manufacturing, for customers in the space industry. During NASA's recent Artemis II mission, the company's advanced optical imaging and solar sensors were used on the Orion spacecraft. It has also developed the first commercial greenhouse for space, and its facility on the International Space Station supports orbital agricultural research.
Last year, Redwire expanded its capabilities by acquiring Edge Autonomy for $925 million, transforming it from a space infrastructure company into a defense technology business. This acquisition provides it with Edge Autonomy's uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), such as the Penguin, which has been extensively used in Ukraine's war with Russia.
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SpaceX's public debut this month has put a spotlight on the space economy and its vast potential, and Redwire has benefited from these strong tailwinds. The company is viewed as a pick-and-shovel stock for orbital infrastructure. It has also been exploring its ability to supply solar energy generation systems for space-based artificial intelligence data centers to help support the growing global demand for compute.
First-quarter results were boosted by its Edge Automony acquisition In its defense segment, Redwire is already reaping the benefits of this acquisition. In the first quarter, the company saw over $20 million in purchase orders from the Marine Corps. It also saw a $15 million follow-on order from the U.S. Army and a major tactical drone modernization contract with a NATO ally. This strong growth comes as the Pentagon spends $1.1 billion on the Drone Dominance Program.
Image source: Getty Images.
In the first quarter, revenue grew 58% to $97 million, and its contracted backlog surged to $498.1 million, up from $411.2 million at the end of last year. Of this, $359.7 million, or about 72% of its backlog, is attributed to its space segment. Its defense technology segment revenue surged to $44.3 million, driven by the acquisition of Edge Autonomy.
An early stage growth stock Redwire is seeing strong revenue and backlog growth, which bodes well for earnings. The company did lose $76.5 million in the first quarter, and its free cash flow was negative $12.7 million. And it recently announced a $500 million at-the-market equity offering to raise capital, which helps support long-term growth, but the resulting shareholder dilution could keep pressure on the stock price in the near term.
The shares are still up 80% but are also down 48% from their most recent peak from late May. Investors bullish on the space economy and expanded drone spending may find Redwire attractive here. With that in mind, the company is still early in its scaling-up growth phase, and its recent at-the-money equity offering illustrates the risks for investors buying the stock today.
Shares in Segro PLC (LSE:SGRO) surged 15.5% to 857p after US giant Prologis Inc (NYSE:PLD) went public with a possible offer for the FTSE 100-listed logistics property group, after its board rejected a £12.6 billion all-share takeover proposal.
The New York-listed warehouse landlord said it wrote to Segro's board on 16 June with an indicative proposal under which Segro shareholders would receive 0.084 new Prologis shares for each Segro share held.
Segro rejected the proposal on Tuesday, 23 June.
Based on Prologis' closing share price on that day and prevailing exchange rates, the proposal values Segro at 925p a share, a 24.6% premium to the closing share price of 742p and matching the group's last reported EPRA net tangible assets per share at the end of 2025.
If completed, Segro shareholders would own about 10.5% of the enlarged group.
In its response, Segro said its board "unanimously and unequivocally" rejected the proposal, arguing that the proposed offer "falls a long way short" of its assessment of the company's value.
Having considered the bid with its advisers, they believe the proposal "was opportunistically timed and sought to take advantage of the clear dislocation between Segro's current share price and its highly attractive underlying business and strong prospects.
"This has been accentuated by major geopolitical issues which have adversely impacted trading valuations across the UK and European real estate sectors relative to the US REIT sector."
Segro said it remained "very confident" in its strategy, balance sheet strength and ability to deliver substantial value for shareholders in the years ahead.
Prologis arguments Prologis, the world's largest logistics real estate investment trust at a $139 billion market cap and with over 1.2 billion sq ft across 19 countries, said the combination would give Segro investors exposure to a larger global platform while providing access to greater financial resources.
The San Francisco-based company argued that Segro's growth has been constrained by its balance sheet and highlighted its shares have "traded at a persistent discount" to the value of its underlying assets, pointing to its own stronger total shareholder returns over three and five years.
The US group also said its greater financial firepower could unlock "significant embedded value of Segro's development and data centre pipeline in a way that Segro will not be able to do on a standalone basis".
Prologis, which has until 22 July to make a formal offer for Segro, urged shareholders to press the board to engage in talks.
Wider effects Its announcement gave a boost to the wider sector, with Tritax Big Box REIT PLC (LSE:BBOX) climbing 5.4%, British Land Company PLC (LSE:BLND) 3.2%, Land Securities Group PLC (LSE:LAND) 3% and LondonMetric Property PLC (LSE:LMP) 2.8% among the blue-chips. On the FTSE 250, Big Yellow Group PLC (LSE:BYG) rose 4%, Great Portland Estates (LSE:GPOR) 3.75%, Hammerson PLC (LSE:HMSO) 3.3% and Shaftesbury Capital PLC (LSE:SHB) 3%.
Broker Stifel said: "Segro's current market cap of £10bn represents just under 20% of the entire EPRA UK REIT Index. If Segro were to be taken over, it would represent a serious challenge to the long-term viability of the UK Listed property sector."
** UPDATE: Adds shares prices and broker comment **
Rigetti Computing získá od amerického ministerstva obchodu 100 milionů USD z CHIPS Actu na vývoj kvantových systémů. Firma ale dál vykazuje vysoké ztráty a její ocenění zůstává extrémně vysoké.
Last month, the Department of Commerce announced plans to invest up to $2 billion across nine quantum computing businesses over the next three years. Among these companies is Rigetti Computing (RGTI 7.10%), which is set to receive $100 million in CHIPS Act funding tied to certain research and development (R&D) milestones for its superconducting quantum systems.
This gives a level of credibility to Rigetti's technology and is a strategic alignment with national priorities related to artificial intelligence (AI).
Smart investors are asking whether this news alone makes the stock an immediate buy. A closer examination of the funding's purpose, its potential applications, and Rigetti's current valuation reveals a more nuanced picture.
Image source: Getty Images.
Why is the government investing in quantum computing stocks? The Commerce Department's $100 million commitment to Rigetti is notable because it forms part of a broader effort to secure leadership in quantum AI technologies amid global competition. Unlike traditional grants, the underlying structure ties the funding to specific R&D milestones while giving the U.S. government an equity stake in Rigetti.
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For the company, the capital arrives at an important moment since scaling up quantum processors increasingly demands hefty investment in hardware, error mitigation, and integration with classic computing systems. The CHIPS Act funding should help reduce reliance on dilutive equity raises from public markets.
Moreover, specifically choosing Rigetti among such a small cohort of recipients signals confidence from policymakers who view quantum computing as essential for economic competitiveness and security applications.
How will CHIPS Act funding help Rigetti? Additional government funding could accelerate Rigetti's progress toward building fault-tolerant quantum architectures at scale. A successful outcome could enable hybrid quantum-classic solutions for crucial applications in drug discovery, financial services, energy modeling, and cryptography.
Beyond research, partnering with the government could strengthen the company's position in public sector and enterprise contracts, fostering ecosystem development around its full-stack approach. With that said, quantum computing remains in a pre-commercial phase where meaningful revenue growth is still years away.
Rigetti's financial profile paints a high-risk, high-reward picture. Currently, the company has a market capitalization of roughly $7 billion with trailing-12-month sales of only $10 million. Under these parameters, the stock trades at a price-to-sales ratio (P/S) of nearly 700. Simply put, this multiple surpasses standard benchmarks even for high-growth technology companies in disruptive markets.
RGTI PS Ratio data by YCharts.
While financial support from the government adds a non-dilutive element to Rigetti's balance sheet, it does not alter the reality of the company's ongoing operating losses amid a modest sales base and a business model with heavy capital expenditures.
All told, the $100 million commitment from the federal government provides important strategic support and capital for the company's road map. At best, this funding potentially accelerates breakthroughs in scalable quantum hardware.
However, Rigetti's abnormally high valuation and early-stage fundamentals indicate that the funding alone does not justify buying the stock right now.
Po IPO Quantinuumu se v sektoru kvantových počítačů přepisují valuace a Rigetti podle článku vypadá na krátkodobý růst lépe než IonQ. IonQ sice vede v komercializaci, ale po prudkém růstu už má omezenější prostor pro další zisky.
Key Takeaways Rigetti appears better positioned for near-term upside after Quantinuum's IPO reset sector valuations.RGTI's 108-qubit Cepheus-1-108Q and $569M cash balance support its chiplet-based roadmap.IonQ leads commercialization with $64.7M in Q1 revenues, but its sharp rally may limit near-term gains. After a volatile start to 2026, quantum computing stocks have staged an impressive comeback. Since April 1, shares of IonQ (IONQ - Free Report) have surged 109.9%, while Rigetti Computing (RGTI - Free Report) has rallied 58.4%, both significantly outperforming the S&P 500's 14.5% gain. The recovery reflects renewed investor optimism toward the quantum computing industry as commercialization milestones accelerate and governments and enterprises increase investments in next-generation computing technologies.
The latest catalyst fueling enthusiasm is the Quantinuum's (QNT - Free Report) blockbuster public listing. The company has emerged as one of the largest pure-play quantum computing firms, and its public debut is resetting valuation expectations across the industry. Investors now have a new benchmark for assessing publicly traded quantum names, sparking fresh interest in companies with credible technology road maps, growing commercial traction and sufficient capital to scale their platforms.
With the quantum sector entering a new phase of price discovery following Quantinuum's listing, investors must determine which stock is better positioned to capitalize on the industry's next leg of growth. Let's find out.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Rigetti's Chiplet Progress and Adoption Fuel GrowthRigetti continues to strengthen its position in superconducting quantum computing through its differentiated chiplet-based architecture and improving commercial traction. In the first quarter of 2026, the company reported revenue growth of nearly 199% year over year to $4.4 million, driven primarily by on-premises Novera QPU deliveries and related contracts.
The company recently achieved general availability of its 108-qubit Cepheus-1-108Q system, one of the largest modular quantum computers currently available. Rigetti's chiplet architecture has been validated through the successful integration of 12 interconnected chiplets, marking an important step toward scaling higher-qubit systems. Customer momentum is also improving, supported by expanding availability across Amazon Braket, Microsoft Azure Quantum and qBraid, as well as an $8.4 million order from India's C-DAC. With $569 million in cash and no debt, Rigetti remains well-funded to execute its long-term roadmap.
Risks to ConsiderHowever, risks remain considerable. Revenues are still relatively small and heavily dependent on the timing of system deliveries and government contracts. The company remains unprofitable and must continue improving fidelities while proving that its chiplet-based approach can scale to commercially relevant, fault-tolerant systems with more than 1,000 qubits. Execution risks could also intensify as competition in the quantum computing industry heats up following Quantinuum's IPO.
IonQ's Quantum Platform and Demand Drive OptimismIonQ has emerged as one of the quantum industry's early commercialization leaders. In the first quarter of 2026, the company generated a record $64.7 million in revenues, up 755% year over year. Management also raised its 2026 revenue guidance to $260-$270 million, reflecting strong demand across its quantum computing platform.
Commercial momentum remains impressive. Remaining performance obligations surged 554% year over year to $470 million, providing strong revenue visibility. About 60% of first-quarter revenues came from commercial customers, while 35% originated from international markets. The company has also presold its first chip-based 256-qubit system and expects customer commissioning to begin in the second quarter of 2027. Its proposed SkyWater Technology acquisition is likely to further strengthen manufacturing capabilities and support long-term scaling ambitions.
Risks to ConsiderHowever, risks remain significant. IonQ continues to invest heavily in manufacturing expansion and next-generation system development, which could keep profitability under pressure. The company also faces execution risks in translating its growing backlog into sustainable earnings. Additionally, the stock's massive rally has elevated valuation expectations, potentially capping near-term upside.
2026 EstimatesRGTI expects to record earnings growth of 71.9% in 2026. Revenues are expected to increase 257.3% in 2026.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
IONQ expects record earnings growth of 42.9% in 2026. Revenues are projected to surge 101.9% in 2026.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Short-Term Price Targets Favor Rigetti Over IonQBased on short-term price targets offered by 10 analysts, the average price target of RGTI of $31 represents an increase of 45.1% from the last closing price of $21.36.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Based on short-term price targets offered by 11 analysts, the average price target of IONQ of $69.95 represents an increase of 23.7% from the last closing price of $56.55.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Which Stock Offers Higher Upside Potential After Quantinuum's IPO?Both companies stand to benefit from the renewed investor interest generated by Quantinuum's public debut. Quantinuum's IPO is likely to act as a valuation reset for the sector, drawing additional institutional capital toward publicly traded quantum computing companies with credible technology road maps and commercialization strategies.
However, Rigetti appears better positioned for near-term upside in a post-Quantinuum environment. Although both stocks currently carry a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell), RGTI offers substantially higher analyst-implied upside potential, a sizeable cash position with no debt, and growing momentum around its chiplet-based architecture and system deployments.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Meanwhile, IonQ remains the sector's commercial leader and arguably possesses the strongest long-term platform strategy. However, its shares have already more than doubled since April, resulting in richer valuation multiples and potentially limiting additional gains in the near term.
Investors seeking exposure to the next phase of enthusiasm following Quantinuum's IPO may find Rigetti's risk-reward profile more attractive at current levels. Long-term investors may continue to monitor IonQ's commercialization progress closely, but after its extraordinary rally, RGTI appears to offer the better upside opportunity as the quantum sector enters its next chapter.
D-Wave Quantum podepsala LOI na 100 milionů USD v rámci CHIPS Act, což signalizuje zájem amerického ministerstva obchodu o její kvantové technologie. Pokud bude dohoda dokončena, podpoří vývoj v USA a Kanadě, konkrétně v připravovaném R&D centru v Boca Raton na Floridě a v R&D centrech v New Havenu v Connecticutu a Burnaby v Britské Kolumbii.
Key Takeaways QBTS signs $100M LOI under CHIPS Act, signaling U.S. Commerce Department interest in its quantum tech.The funding would back D-Wave's R&D facility in Florida, Connecticut and Canada to scale quantum systems.QBTS aims for 100,000-qubit annealing and 10,000-qubit gate-model systems for AI and chemistry. D-Wave Quantum (QBTS - Free Report) , or D-Wave, received a major boost last month that could advance its superconducting annealing and gate-model technology development. The company signed a Letter of Intent (“LOI”) for $100 million in proposed funding under the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act. The LOI signals federal interest in D-Wave’s annealing and gate-model quantum computing technologies and their potential economic impact. If the award is finalized, the company would issue $100 million in shares of its common stock to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The funding is set to support D-Wave’s work at its forthcoming research and development (R&D) facility in Boca Raton, FL, as well as its R&D centers in New Haven, Connecticut and Burnaby, BC, Canada. Specifically, it aims to help speed up the delivery of advanced superconducting quantum computers, including a 100,000-qubit annealing system and a 10,000-qubit gate-model system.
While D-Wave’s annealing quantum computers are already commercial, its gate-model system is expected to reach commercial viability with 10,000 physical qubits, enabling 100 logical qubits.
With the larger-scale and higher coherence annealing quantum computing systems, the company expects stronger performance gains for solving computational problems in optimization, materials simulation, blockchain and artificial intelligence applications. The larger-scale dual-rail gate-model quantum computer will allow dozens of logical qubits, providing a robust application development platform for a broad range of quantum chemistry and quantum artificial intelligence use cases.
Taken together, these efforts are aimed at building a more resilient, end-to-end quantum computing ecosystem, in line with the CHIPS and Science Act objectives to build domestic capacity in critical technologies and establish a robust and reliable pipeline for the components required to bring state-of-the-art quantum computing systems into the market.
Latest Development From QBTS’ PeersIBM (IBM - Free Report) has announced an expanded collaboration with ServiceNow to address two of the biggest barriers blocking enterprise AI at scale: the AI-ready data problem and the legacy application layer. The partnership aims to combine IBM’s AI, data and automation capabilities with the ServiceNow AI Platform to help enterprises break through outdated systems and put their data to work for AI.
IonQ (IONQ - Free Report) announced Clavis XG Multiplex, a new addition to its Clavis XG Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) portfolio to make quantum security more practical and deployable across metropolitan fiber networks. The system enables high-performance, physics-based key distribution on a customer’s existing network infrastructure without requiring operators to redesign, isolate or dedicate optical networks for quantum security. IONQ also opened a new laboratory suite in Boulder, CO, which will house Quantum Computing R&D and semiconductor chip testing facilities.
QBTS’ Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesYear to date, QBTS shares have plunged 11.5%, underperforming the industry’s 11.6% fall.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
D-Wave is trading at a forward, two-year, price/sales (P/S) of 132.67X, higher than its median and industry average.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Here’s how estimates for D-Wave’s 2026 and 2027 loss per share are shaping up.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
D-Wave currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
RBC Capital Markets snížila cílovou cenu společnosti Rathbones na 1 950 pencí z 2 400 pencí po regulačním oznámení, které zvyšuje krátkodobou nejistotu. Rating „outperform“ ponechala díky nízkému ocenění.
RBC Capital Markets has trimmed its price target for Rathbones Group PLC (LSE:RAT, OTC:RTBBF) to 1,950 pence from 2,400 pence, reflecting a surprise regulatory update that adds near-term uncertainty to the wealth manager's turnaround narrative.
The company disclosed on 16 June that it will cease charging investment management fees on client cash and pause onboarding of new enhanced due diligence clients for the next twelve months.
Existing EDD client inflows will also moderate. RBC's earnings per share forecasts have been downgraded 5% for 2026, 2% for 2027 and 6% for 2028, reflecting these headwinds.
The regulatory announcement arguably complicated Rathbones' investment case by injecting uncertainty around reviews into client outcomes and aspects of pricing.
It will likely delay the inflexion to positive organic growth, forcing the market to scrutinise net flows excluding EDD clients as evidence of underlying improvement. That pivot toward closer monitoring of non-EDD flows represents a tactical setback for the narrative around execution quality.
Yet RBC retained its 'outperform' rating, arguing the shares trade at fewer than 9 times 2027 estimated earnings, placing Rathbones among the cheapest wealth managers globally.
The bank highlighted a material valuation discount to peers, which trade at roughly 15 times earnings despite Rathbones delivering solid earnings growth of 5% annually through 2028.
RBC's thesis hinges on multi-year operational improvement under chief executive Jonathan Sorrell as the integration of the Investec Wealth business matures and delivers synergies.
The bank also flagged potential acquisition appeal, noting Rathbones' market positioning in UK wealth and the group's distressed valuation could attract buyers seeking scale in the domestic sector.
The dividend yield stands at 6.2%, with RBC forecasting a combined ordinary dividend and share buyback generating approximately 8% total yield in 2026.
RBC's upside scenario of 3,000 pence assumes the stock re-rates to 16.5 times 2026 earnings, which the ten-year peak multiple of 18 times suggests is not unreasonable. However, the regulatory update has plainly shifted sentiment in the near term, making near-term catalysts less obvious.
Micron Technology čeká 24. června zveřejnění výsledků za 3. čtvrtletí; firma míří na tržby 33,5 miliardy USD a upravený zisk na akcii (EPS) 19,15 USD. Poptávka po paměťových čipech je tak silná, že výroba HBM pro rok 2026 je vyprodána.
Even with a recent pullback, Micron Technology's (MU +0.32%) stock remains sizzling hot. Shares of the memory chipmaker have soared roughly 750% over the past 12 months. Micron is up more than 250% year to date, ranking it No. 4 among top performers in the S&P 500 (^GSPC +0.44%).
Can this high-flying stock's momentum continue? Probably. I predict that Micron's stock will skyrocket after the company reports its third-quarter earnings on June 24.
Image source: Micron Technology.
The numbers behind the prediction Micron has set new quarterly revenue records for four consecutive quarters. It will almost certainly do so again with its Q3 results. The company projects Q3 revenue of $33.5 billion, roughly 3.6 times its revenue in the prior-year period and a 40% increase from the previous quarter.
Analysts are even more optimistic. The consensus Wall Street Q3 revenue estimate is $34.5 billion, roughly 270% higher than Micron's revenue in the same period in 2025.
Micron's Q3 earnings should also be spectacular. The company expects adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $19.15 at the midpoint of its guidance range. Wall Street looks for adjusted EPS of $19.72. To put those numbers in context, Micron posted adjusted EPS of only $1.91 for the third quarter of 2025.
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Will Micron be able to top these lofty estimates? I think so. The company has beaten consensus earnings expectations in eight of the past nine quarters. Its business is in the strongest position it has ever been in. Micron's 2026 high-bandwidth memory (HBM) supply is entirely sold out. Management says that demand is so great that the company can "fulfill only 50% to two-thirds" of memory orders for key customers.
There's one other key indicator that boosts my confidence that Micron's stock will take off after its Q3 update: Analysts are raising their price targets on the stock. As a case in point, TD Cowen (TD 0.39%) increased its 12-month price target for Micron last week from $660 to $1500.
What could go wrong Admittedly, my prediction could be a bust. Several things could go wrong and prevent Micron's shares from skyrocketing after June 24. If the company delivered disappointing Q3 results, its stock will almost certainly sink. If management gives any reason to suspect that demand will soften in the near term, expect a sell-off.
Micron remains a cyclical stock, as it always has been. However, I think the current exceptionally strong up cycle still has plenty of room to run. And so does Micron's stock.
Keith Speights has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Micron Technology. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Montana-Dakota Utilities uzavřela s Applied Digital smlouvu o dodávkách elektřiny pro plánovanou AI továrnu Polaris Forge 3 v Severní Dakotě. Areál má při plné kapacitě spotřebovat 430 megawattů.
, /PRNewswire/ -- MDU Resources Group, Inc.'s (NYSE: MDU) subsidiary, Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., has entered into an electric service agreement (ESA) with Applied Digital Corporation (NASDAQ: APLD) to provide power to Polaris Forge 3, an AI Factory near Center, North Dakota.
At full capacity, the campus would require 430 megawatts of electricity. Under the ESA, Applied Digital would be responsible for the costs of purchasing the energy directly from the market or through other power supply arrangements. Applied Digital anticipates initial operations to commence in August 2027.
Polaris Forge 3 will expand Applied Digital's footprint in North Dakota, where the company is developing purpose-built campuses designed to support high-density artificial intelligence workloads. Applied Digital has previously announced a 15-year lease with a U.S. based high investment-grade hyperscaler for this site.
"Polaris Forge 3 is another example of how Applied Digital is turning power into operational AI capacity through disciplined execution and long-term partnerships," said Wes Cummins, Chairman and CEO of Applied Digital. "This campus is expected to create approximately 200 full-time jobs, generate meaningful property tax revenue and support long-term growth across Oliver County and the surrounding region. We believe AI infrastructure should create value well beyond the campus, and we're proud to continue building in North Dakota."
Montana-Dakota Utilities currently serves Applied Digital at Polaris Forge 1, its AI Factory near Ellendale, North Dakota, where the companies have worked together to integrate significant power demand while maintaining reliable, cost-effective service for customers, crediting $38.4 million back to North Dakota customers over the past three years.
"This proposed project reflects the growing interest in North Dakota as a location for large energy users," said Nicole Kivisto, president and CEO of MDU Resources. "We are committed to serving these customers in a way that benefits our communities, supports the regional grid and delivers value to our customers."
Approval of the ESA and other regulatory filings by the North Dakota Public Service Commission is required for the company to provide power under the agreement with Applied Digital.
About MDU Resources Group, Inc.
MDU Resources Group, Inc., a member of the S&P SmallCap 600 index, strives to deliver safe, reliable, cost-effective and environmentally responsible electric utility and natural gas distribution services to more than 1.2 million customers across the Pacific Northwest and Midwest. In addition to its utility operations, the company's pipeline business operates a more than 3,800-mile natural gas pipeline network and storage system, ensuring reliable energy delivery across the Northern Plains. With a legacy spanning over a century, MDU Resources remains focused on energizing lives for a better tomorrow. For more information about MDU Resources, visit www.mdu.com or contact the investor relations department at [email protected].
About Applied Digital Corporation
Applied Digital (Nasdaq: APLD) named Best Data Center in the Americas 2025 by Datacloud — designs, builds, and operates high-performance, sustainably engineered data centers and colocation services for artificial intelligence, cloud, networking, and blockchain workloads. Headquartered in Dallas, TX, and founded in 2021, the company combines hyperscale expertise, proprietary waterless cooling, and rapid deployment capabilities to deliver secure, scalable compute at industry-leading speed and efficiency, while creating economic opportunities in underserved communities through its award-winning Polaris Forge AI Factory model. Learn more at applieddigital.com or follow @APLDdigital on X and LinkedIn.
Oklo a Centrus podepsaly předběžnou smlouvu o dodávkách HALEU pro až pět reaktorů Aurora s tím, že dodávky mají začít v roce 2029. Palivo má podpořit plánovaný areál o výkonu 1,2 GW v jižním Ohiu.
One of the first large-scale commercial high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) supply agreements that could include prepayments from Oklo. Centrus to provide Oklo with enough HALEU to support multiple years of Oklo reactor cores, covering up to five Aurora powerhouses as part of Oklo's planned 1.2 GW Clean Energy Campus. Oklo and Kiewit Nuclear Solutions Co. ("Kiewit") have entered into an MOU intended to support engineering, procurement, and construction planning for the initial planned Aurora powerhouse deployments in southern Ohio. Work expected to bring multi-billion-dollar private clean energy investment and hundreds of jobs to southern Ohio. PIKETON, Ohio, /PRNewswire/ -- Oklo Inc. (NYSE: OKLO) ("Oklo"), an advanced nuclear technology company, and Centrus Energy Corp. (NYSE: LEU) ("Centrus"), a uranium enrichment and nuclear fuel services provider, announced today a Letter of Intent under which Centrus agrees to supply enough domestic high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) to power up to five Aurora powerhouses for multiple years, with deliveries to Oklo scheduled to begin in 2029. Centrus will supply HALEU from its American Centrifuge Plant in Pike County, Ohio to support Oklo's planned 1.2 GW power campus in the region.
The agreement, which anticipates a further definitive contract, brings together domestic fuel supply, planned advanced nuclear power generation, customer demand, and project execution in southern Ohio while strengthening fuel certainty for Oklo's planned Aurora powerhouse deployments at a time when access to domestically sourced HALEU remains one of the central constraints facing the advanced nuclear sector.
The Letter of Intent could include prepayments from Oklo to Centrus to support fuel supply for Oklo's planned campus buildout and will be further negotiated in a future definitive agreement. It follows Oklo's January 2026 announcement with Meta, which included prepayment to advance project certainty for Oklo's planned Aurora powerhouse campus. Centrus plans to leverage billions in private capital along with the previously announced $900 million HALEU task order from the U.S. Department of Energy.
The development advances Oklo's broader southern Ohio deployment strategy by aligning Centrus' enrichment capabilities at Piketon, Oklo's planned Aurora powerhouse campus, established customer demand, and engineering and construction experience from Kiewit, one of North America's largest construction and engineering organizations.
"This agreement aligns core elements of advanced nuclear deployment: power generation, fuel, and customer demand," said Oklo co-founder and CEO Jacob DeWitte. "Southern Ohio brings together decades of nuclear experience and a highly qualified workforce that can move advanced nuclear from planning to deployment."
"Today's announcement is an important step toward ensuring reliable HALEU supply for next generation reactors and represents a crucial milestone as we work to restore America's ability to enrich uranium at scale," said Centrus President and CEO Amir Vexler. "By connecting advanced nuclear power generation and customer demand with domestic HALEU production in southern Ohio, this agreement helps establish a foundation for a new U.S. advanced nuclear energy hub."
The work to establish a commercial supply chain for advanced nuclear fuel and build a campus of Aurora powerhouses will require over 700 full-time construction employees for multiple years across the deployment of sequential units. Oklo also expects each planned powerhouse to support approximately 40 to 50 permanent, well-paying jobs, including technical support, engineering, administration, warehouse and logistics, routine maintenance, and periodic refueling activities. For every eight Aurora powerhouses, an additional 80 to 120 permanent roles will be created to support site-wide operations.
Centrus' expansion, which launched late last year, is expected to create 1,000 construction jobs and 300 new operating jobs in Ohio alone, while retaining the 150 jobs that existed at the Piketon plant when the expansion began.
Oklo's fast fission Aurora powerhouses are designed to provide reliable clean power under a build-own-operate model, using liquid-metal cooling with low-water requirements, low emissions, and inherent safety characteristics that make the technology well suited to support new industrial growth in southern Ohio.
About Oklo Inc.: Oklo Inc. is developing fast fission power plants to deliver clean, reliable, affordable energy at global scale; establishing a domestic supply chain for critical isotopes; and advancing nuclear fuel recycling to convert used nuclear fuel into clean energy. Oklo was the first to receive a site use permit from the U.S. Department of Energy for a commercial advanced fission plant, was awarded fuel from Idaho National Laboratory, and submitted the first custom combined license application for an advanced reactor to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Oklo is also developing advanced fuel recycling technologies in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. National Laboratories.
About Centrus: Centrus Energy is a trusted American supplier of nuclear fuel and services for the nuclear power industry, helping meet the growing need for clean, affordable, carbon-free energy. Since 1998, the Company has provided its utility customers with more than 1,850 reactor years of fuel, which is equivalent to more than 7 billion tons of coal. With world-class technical and engineering capabilities, Centrus is pioneering production of High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium and is leading the effort to restore America's uranium enrichment capabilities at scale so that we can meet our clean energy, energy security, and national security needs. Find out more at www.centrusenergy.com or follow us on LinkedIn and X.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which in this context means statements that express Oklo's and Centrus' opinions, expectations, objectives, beliefs, plans, intentions, strategies, assumptions, forecasts or projections regarding future events or future results and therefore are, or may be deemed to be, "forward-looking statements." The words "may," "will," "could," "should," "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "continue," "might," "possible," "potential," "predict," "project," "goal," "would," "commit," or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology, and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts. They appear in a number of places throughout this press release and include statements regarding our intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, among other things, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the markets in which Oklo and/or Centrus operates. Such forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this press release, and current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, risks and uncertainties.
As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, the actual results or performance of Oklo may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The following important risk factors could affect Oklo's future results and cause those results or other outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements: risks related to the development and deployment of Oklo's powerhouses, fuel fabrication and fuel recycling facilities, and radioisotope production activities; the risk that Oklo is pursuing an emerging market with no commercial project operating and regulatory uncertainties; risks related to acquisitions, divestitures, or joint ventures we may engage in; the need for financing to construct plants, which remain subject to market, financial, political, and legal conditions; risks related to an inability to raise additional capital to support our business and sustain our growth on favorable terms; the effects of competition; risks related to accessing high-assay low-enriched uranium, plutonium, and other fuels (including recycled fuels) at acceptable costs and under acceptable timelines; risks related to our supply chain; risks related to power purchase agreements; risks related to human capital; risks related to our intellectual property; risks related to cybersecurity and data privacy; changes in applicable laws or regulations, including tariffs; the outcome of any government and regulatory proceedings and investigations and inquiries; and the other factors set forth in our documents we have filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC").
The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties of the other documents filed by Oklo from time to time with the SEC. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on Oklo. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting Oklo will be those that Oklo has anticipated. Oklo undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this presentation, except as may be required by law.
For Centrus Energy Corp., particular factors that involve uncertainty and could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements and which are, and may be, exacerbated by any worsening of the global business and economic environment include but are not limited to the following: our ability to conclude negotiations with our customers, including with Oklo, Inc. regarding the Letter of Intent; the war in Ukraine and other geopolitical conflicts; our government contracts, including related to changes to the U.S. government's appropriated funding levels for HALEU and the government's inability to satisfy its obligations, our lease to our facility in Piketon, Ohio; whether or when government demand for HALEU or LEU for government or commercial uses will materialize and at what level; the impact and potential extended duration of a supply/demand imbalance in the market for LEU; significant competition from major LEU producers, including foreign competitors, who may be less cost sensitive then we are; limitations on our ability to compete in foreign markets; pricing trends and demand in the uranium and enrichment markets, especially in light of the potential of limited supply and our dependence on others for deliveries of LEU; and our ability to successfully implement our planned expansion projects in Piketon, Ohio and Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made in this news release and in our filings with the SEC, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, under Part II, Item 1A – "Risk Factors" in our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and in our other filings with the SEC that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.
Centrus:
Media -- Dan Leistikow [email protected]
Investors -- Neal Nagarajan [email protected]
Media Contact for Oklo:
Bonita Chester, Head of Communications and Media at [email protected]
Investor Contact:
Sam Doane, Senior Director of Investor Relations at [email protected]
OKLO letos kleslo asi o 18 % a po korekci působí vyváženěji, ale firma je stále před generováním tržeb. Pomáhá jí pokrok v Aurora-INL, výrobě paliva a partnerstvích, zatímco rizikem zůstává cash burn a načasování milníků.
Key Takeaways OKLO's YTD decline has made investors reassess whether the advanced nuclear stock is a better bet.Project progress, fuel fabrication, recycling plans and customer momentum support OKLO's long-term story.OKLO's valuation has compressed, but pre-revenue risks, cash burn and milestone timing remain concerns. Oklo Inc. (OKLO - Free Report) has lost about 18% year to date, making investors ask whether the pullback has created a better entry point into one of the most-watched advanced nuclear names. The broader nuclear trade has cooled as well, with NuScale Power (SMR - Free Report) down 27% and NANO Nuclear (NNE - Free Report) off 5.4%.
YTD Price Performance Comparison Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
All three companies are benefiting from the same long-term theme of rising demand for reliable, carbon-free power from data centers, industrial customers and government users.
However, investors should recognize that OKLO remains at a much earlier stage of commercialization than many traditional energy companies. As a pre-revenue business, its investment case depends less on current financial performance and more on whether management can successfully convert development progress into commercial deployment.
OKLO’s Pullback Looks Less Extreme Than NuScale’s
OKLO’s decline this year is meaningful, but it is less severe than NuScale Power’s drop. NANO Nuclear has held up better, but it is also at an early stage, with investors watching licensing, fuel logistics and microreactor commercialization milestones. The decline in OKLO shares appears to reflect a reset after strong enthusiasm for advanced nuclear stocks.
Investors still like the long-term theme, but they are being more selective about companies that need regulatory approvals, financing, fuel access and customer conversion before meaningful revenue arrives. OKLO’s correction may make the stock more balanced, but not necessarily low risk.
Execution Progress Strengthens the OKLO Story
OKLO has made several moves that support its long-term plan. The company has advanced its Aurora-INL project, including DOE-related safety and authorization work, and is pushing fuel fabrication readiness through its Aurora Fuel Fabrication Facility. It has also built customer momentum across data centers, industrials, energy and government users. The company’s model is broader than simply building reactors. OKLO wants to connect power generation, fuel fabrication, fuel recycling and isotope production into one integrated platform. This could prove valuable as fuel supply is becoming a key bottleneck for advanced nuclear deployment.
The MOU with Standard Nuclear adds another important piece. The companies plan to explore nuclear fuel recycling and advanced fuel manufacturing, including the potential use of recycled materials as feedstock for domestic TRISO fuel production. OKLO and Standard Nuclear are also advancing DOE discussions tied to surplus plutonium utilization. This fits OKLO’s strategy of turning used or surplus nuclear materials into productive energy assets. It also differentiates OKLO from NuScale Power, which is built around a light-water small modular reactor design, and from NANO Nuclear, which is developing microreactor and fuel-related capabilities.
Earnings Estimates Show the Risk
The main caution is that OKLO remains pre-revenue. That makes earnings estimates less useful than they would be for a mature power producer, but they still show how far the company is from profitability. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for OKLO’s 2026 loss per share has moved 8% lower, while the 2027 estimate has moved 17% lower. Analysts expect a bigger loss than before. That is not surprising for a company investing in first-of-a-kind nuclear assets, fuel facilities and regulatory work. However, investors must be comfortable with cash burn, uncertain timelines and possible future capital raises. NuScale Power and NANO Nuclear face similar early-stage risks.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
OKLO’s Valuation Is Better, But Still Requires Patience
OKLO now trades at about 3.9 times book value, only slightly above its subindustry and far below its earlier peak of more than 35 times. That sharp valuation reset is one reason the stock looks more interesting after the correction. A lower price-to-book multiple gives investors less exposure to the aggressive nuclear expectations previously built into the stock. Even so, OKLO is not a simple value play. Book value does not fully capture uncertainty around licensing, construction, fuel qualification, customer contracts and project economics. In particular, the stock remains highly sensitive to milestone timing.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Conclusion
After a reasonable year-to-date correction, OKLO looks like a better-balanced bet than when expectations were higher. The company has visible progress in Aurora-INL, fuel fabrication, recycling, customer development and strategic partnerships, while its valuation has compressed.
However, OKLO is still pre-revenue. Earnings estimates have weakened and commercialization remains a long, regulated and capital-intensive process. For investors seeking exposure to advanced nuclear power, OKLO deserves attention alongside NuScale Power and NANO Nuclear, but the risk-reward is not yet strong enough to call it an outright buy. OKLO stock is currently a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
OKLO získala od NRC schválení svého reportu Principal Design Criteria, což podporuje budoucí licencování reaktorů. U projektu Aurora-INL už splnila klíčové milníky DOE.
Key Takeaways OKLO is using flexible regulatory pathways to support fast fission reactor deployments at scale.Aurora-INL has completed key DOE milestones tied to reactor safety and project design agreements.NRC approval of OKLO's design criteria report supports future licensing and repeatable reactor approvals. Regulatory execution is becoming a key factor in bringing advanced nuclear technologies to market. For Oklo Inc. (OKLO - Free Report) , progress with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (“NRC”) and the U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) is central to its plan to deploy fast fission reactors at scale. By engaging early with regulators and using pathways suited to each asset, the company aims to reduce uncertainty, improve timeline visibility and support a more repeatable deployment model.
OKLO is taking a flexible approach to regulatory approvals rather than relying on a single process. For its Aurora-INL project, the company has already completed several important DOE milestones, including agreements related to reactor safety and project design. The next major steps involve final safety reviews, readiness assessments and approval to begin operations. Progress under the DOE's Reactor Pilot Program is important because it could help OKLO gain practical operating experience before expanding into broader commercial deployments.
OKLO is also making progress with the NRC. The agency recently approved the company's Principal Design Criteria topical report, an important step that supports future licensing work. OKLO has indicated that some of the technical and regulatory work completed for Aurora can be reused for future projects, which could help shorten approval timelines. At the same time, the company's Aurora-Ohio project is moving toward the combined license application stage. Together, these efforts suggest that OKLO is building a repeatable process for licensing future reactors while continuing to advance development, procurement and commercialization activities.
How Nuclear Peers Are Managing Licensing and Fuel Risk
NuScale Power (SMR - Free Report) stands out for having one of the most advanced regulatory positions in small modular nuclear power. NuScale Power says its design received U.S. NRC standard design approval in 2020, design certification in 2023 and a second standard design approval in 2025. NuScale Power also highlights an NRC-approved safety case, including passive safety features and a site-boundary emergency planning zone. This regulatory head start supports NuScale Power as projects such as RoPower and TVA/ENTRA1 move ahead.
NANO Nuclear Energy (NNE - Free Report) is at an earlier but active regulatory stage. NANO Nuclear expects to begin the Part 50 NRC licensing process after formal acceptance of the construction permit application for its KRONOS MMR deployment at the University of Illinois, with about 12 months of review expected. NANO Nuclear also lists regulatory progress in the United States and Canada as a key catalyst. For NANO Nuclear, early licensing work is important to reduce project risk and support future deployment.
The Zacks Rundown on OKLO
From a valuation standpoint, OKLO trades at a price-to-book ratio of 3.77, below the industry.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
OKLO currently has an average brokerage recommendation (ABR) of 1.96 on a scale of 1 to 5 (Strong Buy to Strong Sell), calculated based on the actual recommendations (Buy, Hold, Sell, etc.) made by 23 brokerage firms.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
See how the Zacks Consensus Estimate for OKLO’s earnings has been revised over the past 90 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
When rate-cut timing is murky and equity volatility spikes, retirees need cash-generative anchors. Sonoco Products (NYSE:SON | SON Price Prediction) is one of the most boring, most dependable income stocks on the board. The South Carolina packaging maker just authorized its 43rd consecutive annual dividend increase and has paid dividends without interruption for more than 100 years. The question I am answering today: is the yield as bulletproof as the streak suggests?
Dividend Snapshot Metric Value Annual Dividend $2.12 (run-rate ~$2.16) Dividend Yield 4.19% Consecutive Years of Increases 43 years Most Recent Hike $0.53 to $0.54 (Q2 2026) Dividend Aristocrat Yes Payout Ratios Leave Plenty of Room FY2025 EPS came in at $5.71 against a $2.12 annual payout, which is a comfortable earnings payout ratio. On the cash side, Sonoco paid roughly $210M in dividends (98.87M shares x $2.12) against $392.7M of free cash flow.
Metric Value Assessment Earnings Payout 37% Healthy FCF Payout 53% Healthy OCF Coverage 3.3x Strong Q1 2026 FCF was -$428.3M, but that reflects ~$103M of one-time divestiture tax payments and seasonal working capital. Management still guides $700M to $800M in 2026 operating cash flow.
Leverage Is the One Number to Watch Metric Value Assessment Debt-to-Equity 2.1x Moderate Net Debt/EBITDA 3.0x Elevated Cash on Hand $224.5M Adequate Post-Eviosys leverage is the legitimate risk, but Sonoco already reduced net debt by approximately 40% year-over-year in FY2025 using ThermoSafe and TFP divestiture proceeds.
43 Years of Increases and Counting Year Annual Dividend 2026 (run-rate) ~$2.16 2025 ~$2.11 2024 ~$2.07 2023 ~$2.02 2022 ~$1.92 No dividend cuts in the 27-year dataset. Growth is slow but reliably positive, which is exactly what an income portfolio wants.
Management Calls Out the Streak CEO Howard Coker on the Q1 2026 call: “Our disciplined capital allocation strategy remains focused on reducing debt and returning capital to our shareholders… Despite current uncertainties, we remain confident in our portfolio, our strategy and our ability to execute through economic cycles.” The language is firm and confident.
The Verdict: Safe, With Eyes on Leverage Dividend Safety Rating: Safe. A 37% earnings payout, 53% FCF payout, 3.3x cash coverage, and a 43-year streak make this one of the more durable yields you can buy at 9x forward earnings. The dividend thesis strengthens if the Profitability Performance Plan delivers $150M to $200M in cost savings and leverage drifts below 2.5x. The risk profile worsens if a recession hits Industrial Paper Packaging before debt comes down further. On balance, this is the kind of boring 4%-plus yield income-focused retirees typically seek.
Odvětví spotřebitelských úvěrů těží z vyšších sazeb, uvolněnějších úvěrových standardů a rostoucí poptávky po půjčkách. Zacks mu dává rank 30, tedy mezi 12 % nejlepších.
Higher interest rates for a longer time and easing lending standards are brightening the outlook for the Zacks Consumer Loans industry. The Federal Reserve has paused rate cuts and signaled a hike amid signs of higher inflation. Yet, decent economic growth is expected to continue and even boost loan demand, supporting top-line growth.
While looser lending criteria and increased usage of technology are expanding the borrower base, subdued consumer confidence is a headwind. Nonetheless, industry players like Credit Acceptance Corporation (CACC - Free Report) , Enova International, Inc. (ENVA - Free Report) and Encore Capital Group, Inc. (ECPG - Free Report) are worth considering.
About the Industry The Zacks Consumer Loans industry comprises companies that provide mortgages, refinancing, home equity lines of credit, credit card loans, automobile loans, education/student loans and personal loans, among others. These help the industry players generate net interest income (NII), which forms the most important part of total revenues. The prospects of the companies in this industry are highly sensitive to the nation’s overall economic condition and consumer sentiments. In addition to offering the above-mentioned products and services, many consumer loan providers are involved in businesses like commercial lending, insurance, loan servicing and asset recovery. These support the companies in generating fee revenues. Furthermore, this helps the firms diversify revenue sources and be less dependent on the vagaries of the economy.
3 Themes Driving the Consumer Loan Industry's Future Interest Rates & Loan Demand: After lowering interest rates by 175 basis points since 2024, the Federal Reserve has paused its easing cycle and adopted a more hawkish stance. This shift reflects inflation remaining well above the central bank’s 2% target, exacerbated by the recent oil price shock stemming from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Additionally, consumer sentiment has remained weak since late 2025, with the Expectations Index staying below 80 for 16 consecutive months through May, a threshold that has historically signaled an elevated risk of recession. Despite these headwinds, demand for consumer loans is expected to remain resilient and gradually improve, supported by solid economic growth and a still-low unemployment rate. Consequently, industry participants are likely to benefit from continued expansion in net interest margins (NIM) and NII in the coming quarters.
Automation to Improve Operating Efficiency: Consumer loan providers are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), robotic process automation and digital platforms to streamline loan origination, underwriting, servicing and customer onboarding. AI-driven credit assessment models analyze vast amounts of customer data in real time, enabling faster and more accurate lending decisions while reducing manual intervention, while digital onboarding tools lower acquisition costs and enhance customer experience. Meanwhile, AI-powered servicing and collections platforms improve operational efficiency and risk monitoring. These initiatives are expected to reduce processing expenses, support scalable growth and ultimately boost profitability through higher operating leverage and stronger returns.
Asset Quality: While lower interest rates have helped borrowers stay current on loan and interest repayments, persistent macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds have kept inflation elevated. This has prompted the central bank to signal a potential rate hike later this year, which could somewhat weaken borrowers’ repayment capacity. As a result, consumer loan providers are likely to set aside substantial reserves for potential delinquencies. Moreover, several credit quality metrics are already trending above pre-pandemic levels.
Zacks Industry Rank Reflects an Optimistic Stance The Zacks Consumer Loans industry is a 12-stock group within the broader Zacks Finance sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #30, which places it in the top 12% of more than 245 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates outperformance in the near term. 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. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are confident in this group’s earnings growth potential. Over the past year, the industry’s earnings estimates for 2026 and 2027 have been revised upward by 2.9% and 9.6%, respectively.
Before we present a few stocks that you may want to add to your portfolio, let's take a look at the industry’s recent stock market performance and valuation picture.
Industry vs. Broader Market The Zacks Consumer Loans industry has impressively outperformed the Zacks S&P 500 composite and its sector over the past two years.
The stocks in this industry have collectively soared 67.6% over this period, while the Zacks S&P 500 composite and the Zacks Finance sector have risen 42.4% and 37.2%, respectively.
Two-Year Price Performance
Industry Valuation One might get a good sense of the industry’s relative valuation by looking at its price-to-book ratio (P/B), commonly used for valuing consumer loan stocks because of significant variations in their financial performance from one quarter to the next.
The industry currently has a trailing 12-month P/B of 0.74X, below the median level of 0.76X over the past five years. This compares with the highest level of 1.04X and the lowest level of 0.55X over this period. The industry is trading at a considerable discount compared with the market at large, as the trailing 12-month P/B for the S&P 500 is 8.11X and the median level is 8.01X.
Price-to-Book Ratio (TTM)
As finance stocks typically have a lower P/B, comparing consumer loan providers with the S&P 500 may not make sense to many investors. However, comparing the group’s P/B ratio with that of its broader sector ensures that the group is trading at a decent discount. The Zacks Finance sector’s trailing 12-month P/B of 4.53X for the same period is way above the Zacks Consumer Loan industry’s ratio, as the chart below shows.
Price-to-Book Ratio (TTM)
3 Consumer Loan Stocks to Bet on Credit Acceptance Corporation: Headquartered in Southfield, MI, CACC offers financing programs and related products and services to automobile dealers across the United States, enabling them to sell vehicles to consumers irrespective of their credit history. Further, it is engaged in the business of reinsuring coverage under vehicle service contracts sold to consumers by dealers on vehicles financed by the company.
Revenue growth remains a major positive for Credit Acceptance, with the same witnessing a five-year (2020-2025) compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8%. Growth is primarily attributable to a steady rise in finance charges, which is also the main revenue component (accounting for almost 93% of total revenues in the first quarter of 2026). While finance charges are likely to witness headwinds from macroeconomic factors in the near term, solid dealer engagement will offer much-needed support. A steady rise in dealer enrolments and active dealers is expected to support the company’s top-line growth.
CACC continues to execute on a product roadmap aimed at reducing friction for dealers and scaling underwriting and servicing capacity without a proportional increase in expenses. The company is witnessing a steady rise in inbound customer service and account solutions calls routed to the AI-enabled agent, with plans to expand its usage going forward. Additionally, dealer-facing digitization is gaining traction. Over time, these are expected to support higher dealer engagement and improve operating efficiency.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings for 2026 and 2027 suggests growth of 20.1% and 13.7%, respectively. Shares of this Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company have jumped 25.8% over the past six months. It has a market cap of $6.1 billion. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Price and Consensus: CACC
Enova International: Based in Chicago, IL, Enova is a leading financial technology company focused on providing online financial services. The company caters to small businesses and capitalizes on its proprietary technology, analytics and customer service capabilities to underwrite and fund loans.
Being an early entrant into online lending, the company has completed almost 65 million customer transactions and collected approximately 66 terabytes of consumer behavior data since its launch in 2004. This has enabled Enova to better analyze its specific customer base and expand small and medium businesses (SMB) lending. This Zacks Rank #2 company’s proprietary underwriting systems leverage advanced risk analytics, including ML and AI.
Moreover, the company has been diversifying its operations, which will support its long-term growth. In December 2025, Enova agreed to acquire Grasshopper Bancorp, which will boost its earnings over time. This will also expand the company’s ability to deliver a more comprehensive suite of financial products through a national bank charter, expanding access to credit to those who were traditionally underserved by banks.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings for 2026 and 2027 indicates an increase of 26.8% and 23.7%, respectively. ENVA’s shares have gained 24.1% over the past six months. It has a market cap of $5 billion.
Price and Consensus: ENVA
Encore Capital: Based in San Diego, CA, ECPG provides debt recovery and related financial services worldwide. Through its global subsidiaries, the company acquires portfolios of charged-off consumer receivables from leading banks, credit unions and utility providers, leveraging data-driven strategies to optimize collections and portfolio performance.
Encore Capital plans to leverage its leadership position in portfolio purchasing and recovery as well as credit management services to bolster its market share worldwide. Over the years, the company’s portfolio purchases and collections have increased, which supported its top-line expansion.
With rising delinquency/charge-off rates in the United States due to higher rates, there is more supply of non-performing loans. This offers Encore Capital an additional opportunity to purchase portfolios and apply its analytics and collections capabilities for higher returns. With scale, funding access and demonstrated execution, the company is expected to continue capturing high-return supply, extending collections growth beyond tax seasonality into subsequent quarters.
The company’s operating engine is delivering consistent overperformance that is now beginning to embed into forward estimates. Encore Capital is witnessing steadily higher collections than the forecasts, as technology, digital and operational innovations lift early-stage collections. Over the next few quarters, management expects the mix to transition from cash overs to higher portfolio revenue as ERC curves adjust upward.
Shares of this Zacks Rank #1 company has soared 52.4% over the past six months. ECPG’s earnings are expected to rise 19.3% in 2026 and 6.5% in 2027. The company has a market cap of $1.8 billion.
CoreWeave má backlog 99,4 miliardy USD a před vstupem do indexu Nasdaq-100 za týden posílil o 18,87 %. Tržby v 1. čtvrtletí vzrostly o 111,69 % na 2,08 miliardy USD.
At $117.03, CoreWeave (NASDAQ:CRWV) looks fully valued near current levels, with a more attractive risk/reward setup on any macro-induced pullback to $105 or below. The stock has ripped 18.87% in the past week as traders front-run Nasdaq-100 inclusion on June 22, 2026, making this an awkward spot to chase but a dangerous one to short.
CoreWeave operates a purpose-built AI cloud platform renting GPU compute to model developers, hyperscalers, and enterprise customers. The company surpassed 1 GW of active power in Q1 and positioned itself as the preferred infrastructure layer for inference workloads, with CEO Michael Intrator saying CoreWeave sits “between the models and the silicon.”.
The stock IPO’d at $40 in March 2025, ran to $187, and now trades near its 50-day moving average of $108.98 as the market digests a backlog explosion alongside escalating losses.
The Bull Case: Backlog Math CoreWeave booked $99.4 billion of revenue backlog, including a $21 billion Meta commitment and $6 billion from Jane Street. Management signed more than $40 billion of new commitments in Q1 alone and now counts ten customers committed to spending at least $1 billion. Guidance for 2026 sits at $12 billion to $13 billion in revenue with an exit run rate of $18 billion to $19 billion, and management flagged a 2027 run rate above $30 billion, of which more than 75% is already contracted. NVIDIA’s $2 billion equity investment validates the moat. Cantor Fitzgerald carries a $167 target, and the June 22 Nasdaq-100 inclusion mechanically forces passive funds to buy.
The Bear Case: Debt Load Total liabilities hit $50.81 billion, quarterly interest expense doubled to $536 million, and Q2 interest expense is guided to $650 million to $730 million. Q1 free cash flow was negative $4.71 billion on $7.7 billion of CapEx, with full-year 2026 CapEx guided to $31 billion to $35 billion.
Net loss widened to $740 million from $315 million a year earlier, and EPS of -$1.40 missed consensus by 16.26%. Insiders unloaded over $100 million in May and June, with CEO Intrator selling up to $37.65 million in shares. A securities fraud class action alleging concealed data center construction delays still hangs over the name.
Valuation at $117 At 8.81x trailing sales and 11.53x book, the stock prices in flawless backlog conversion. The Nasdaq-100 catalyst is real, yet much appears in the 18.87% one-week rally. Buying after that move and ahead of inclusion day risks a classic “sell the news” reversal.
A pullback toward the 200-day moving average of $100.09 or the $105 buy zone would offer cleaner risk/reward into Q2 results. Leaked bond memoranda reportedly show 90% of 2027 ARR is already secured, which would validate the bull math, but the stock needs to digest its move first.
Analyst Consensus Shares trade at $117.03 against a consensus analyst target of $140.18, implying 19.78% upside. Of the 35 analysts covering the stock:
Strong Buy: 3 Buy: 19 Hold: 11 Sell: 1 Strong Sell: 1 CRWV is up 63.43% year to date against the broader S&P 500, yet still sits 26.16% below where it traded a year ago. Q1 revenue of $2.08 billion grew 111.69% year over year and beat consensus by 5.80%.
Where Things Stand at $117 The Nasdaq-100 inclusion bid is largely priced in after a near 19% weekly surge. Chasing a known-date catalyst punishes latecomers when passive funds finish rebalancing. The fundamental setup is constructive, with a $99.4 billion backlog and 2027 run rate guidance above $30 billion, but entry matters when the company burns $4.71 billion of free cash flow per quarter.
A constructive re-rating signal would be a macro-driven pullback to the $105 zone, aligning with the 200-day moving average and improving risk/reward. A bearish signal would be a Q2 print showing margin recovery stalling or interest expense outrunning the $650 to $730 million guide, either calling the backlog conversion thesis into question.
Watch contracted power conversion, adjusted operating margin (guided to low double digits by Q4), and customer diversification beyond hyperscalers. At $105, the same backlog would be available roughly 10% cheaper with a defined invalidation level, offering a cleaner setup for risk-conscious entries.
Backblaze uzavřela s CoreWeave pětiletou smlouvu na víceexabajtové úložiště ve výši 335 milionů USD. Dohoda má podpořit infrastrukturu pro AI a využití storage tiers.
$335M Strategic Agreement Aligns to Strong AI Demand and Establishes Backblaze as a Key Storage Provider
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Backblaze, Inc. (Nasdaq: BLZE), the cloud storage platform for the AI era, today announced an agreement with CoreWeave, Inc. (Nasdaq: CRWV), The Essential Cloud for AI™.
Under the multi-exabyte, $335 million agreement, Backblaze will provide cost-efficient storage capacity that supports portions of CoreWeave’s managed storage infrastructure, helping optimize placement of data across performance tiers while preserving high-performance storage resources for the demands of AI workloads. The Backblaze technology supports HDD-based storage tiers in CoreWeave AI Object Storage. Customers already utilizing CoreWeave AI Object Storage with its patented LOTA distributed cache will immediately have access to new service tiers without any code modifications.
Every stage of the AI lifecycle depends on the ability to store and move massive volumes of data efficiently. Training, inference, checkpointing, data preparation, model outputs, and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) all require storage that performs at the speed and scale modern AI demands.
"Storage is the foundation every AI workflow is built on — without it, even the world's most powerful compute sits idle,” said Gleb Budman, co-founder and CEO, Backblaze. “We're pleased to work with CoreWeave on elements of their storage environment. This collaboration demonstrates how our platform can help organizations meet growing infrastructure demands."
Backblaze serves more than 100,000 customers worldwide and has extensive experience operating large-scale storage infrastructure. Its cloud platform is designed to deliver reliable, cost-efficient storage services across a range of enterprise and data-intensive use cases.
“Backblaze has built a reputation for making complex, HDD-based storage infrastructure reliable and easy-to-consume at scale. We’re pleased to work with them as we continue expanding our platform and managed service offerings to support AI workloads at scale,” said Nick Hoover, Vice President at CoreWeave.
CoreWeave’s AI cloud platform spans infrastructure, technology, tools, and services. The company serves leading AI model developers, enterprises, and research organizations, including 9 of the top 10 AI model providers.
To learn more, click here.
About Backblaze
Backblaze (NASDAQ: BLZE) gives businesses the freedom to innovate without limits by removing the barriers of lock-in, complexity, and cost. Our high-performance cloud object storage accelerates AI workflows, powers data-heavy applications, streamlines media management, and protects critical data. As an award-winning independent cloud, we provide unparalleled levels of interoperability that enable over 500,000 of our customers to reach and serve hundreds of millions of end users in 175 countries around the world. For more information, please go to www.backblaze.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which involve risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are frequently identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” or other similar terms or expressions that relate to future performance, expectations, strategy, plans or intentions.
Actual results could differ materially from those stated in or implied by the forward-looking statements in this press release due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the impact of Backblaze’s go-to-market transformation and ability to attract and retain customers, including increasingly larger customers; the continued growth of data stored by Backblaze’s customers; continued growth of AI related business; rapidly evolving technological developments in the market, including advancement in AI; realizing the anticipated benefits relating to cost savings initiatives and the re-investment of savings in additional sales capacity; market competition, including competitors that may have greater size, offerings and resources; effectively managing growth and scaling of Backblaze’s platform; ability to offer new features and other offerings on a timely basis, including new enterprise features, B2 Overdrive offering and geographic expansion in Canada or other jurisdictions, and achieve desired market adoption; disruption in Backblaze’s service or loss of availability of customers’ data; cyberattacks; ability to continue to scale the business; the impact of pricing and other product offering changes, including the May 1, 2026 pay-as-you-go storage pricing increase; material defects or errors in Backblaze’s software, such as problems with Backblaze’s internal systems, network, or data, including actual or perceived breaches or failures; supply chain disruption; ability to maintain existing relationships with partners and to enter into new partnerships; hiring and retention of key employees; the impact of changes to global trade and tariff policies, on Backblaze or Backblaze’s vendors, partners and customers; war or hostilities, and other significant world or regional events on Backblaze’s business and the business of Backblaze’s customers, vendors, supply chain and partners; litigation and other disputes; availability of additional capital; and general market, political, economic, and business conditions. Further information on these and additional risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those included in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this release are included under the caption “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in Backblaze’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings and reports Backblaze makes with the SEC from time to time.
The forward-looking statements made in this release reflect Backblaze’s views as of the date of this press release. Backblaze undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
CoreWeave má backlog téměř 100 miliard dolarů a cíl 5 GW kapacity do roku 2030, ale růst financuje vysokým dluhem a výdaji. Nebius mezitím rychle škáluje na 4 GW do roku 2026 a analytici mu zvedli odhady zisku.
Key Takeaways CRWV is expanding AI infrastructure rapidly, with a nearly $100 billion backlog and a 5 GW capacity goal.NBIS is scaling globally, targeting 4 GW capacity by 2026 amid strong AI cloud demand.CoreWeave faces high spending and debt, while analysts raised earnings estimates for its rival. As enterprises race to build and deploy increasingly sophisticated AI models, demand for specialized cloud infrastructure, GPU clusters and high-performance data centers continues to surge. While established cloud providers like Amazon, Microsoft and Google dominate the market, newer AI-native infrastructure companies are also emerging as compelling investment opportunities. Among them, CoreWeave (CRWV - Free Report) and Nebius Group N.V. (NBIS - Free Report) are emerging AI infrastructure and cloud-computing companies focused on providing high-performance GPU capacity for AI model training and inference.
Investors frequently compare them to high-growth plays that benefit from surging demand for AI compute resources. Per a report from Fortune Business Insights, the global AI infrastructure market size is projected to go from $75.4 billion in 2026 to $497.98 billion by 2034 at a CAGR of 26.6%. Both companies stand to benefit from long-term trends shaping the AI economy, including rising AI adoption, growing demand for GPUs, expanding inference workloads, investments in foundation models and the increasing need for sovereign AI infrastructure.
However, they differ substantially in their business models, customer bases, growth strategies and risk profiles. For investors seeking exposure to the AI infrastructure boom, the question is straightforward: Which stock offers the greater upside?
Let’s uncover.
The Case for CRWV StockCoreWeave has quickly become one of the fastest-growing cloud infrastructure providers focused exclusively on AI workloads. A major competitive advantage is its close relationship with NVIDIA (NVDA - Free Report) . In June, it became the first AI cloud provider to complete the bring-up and full system-level validation of NVDA Vera Rubin NVL72, a next-generation AI platform, positioning CRWV at the forefront of next-generation AI infrastructure and strengthening its competitive advantage in the rapidly expanding AI cloud market. In January, NVIDIA increased its investment in CoreWeave to $2 billion. CRWV aims to reach 5 GW of data center capacity by 2030, strengthening its ability to offer customers access to the latest NVIDIA hardware without requiring major infrastructure investments.
CoreWeave is experiencing rapidly increasing demand for inference-ready compute across GPU generations, which management believes will support long-term margin and earnings growth. Additionally, its storage business is growing quickly, while software, CPU and networking offerings are each expected to surpass $100 million in ARR by 2026. AI adoption is accelerating rapidly, expanding its target market, customer base and platform opportunities. Demand continues to strengthen as existing clients expand and new enterprise verticals adopt AI more broadly. It has expanded its platform to support training, inference and agentic AI workloads, positioning it for sustained, margin-enhancing growth.
CoreWeave has also scaled rapidly, surpassing 3.5 GW of contracted power capacity, with most expected online by 2027, and has secured more than $20 billion in debt and equity financing this year. As AI workloads move from training to inference and enterprise deployment, hyperscalers and foundation model developers are deepening their commitments, while more enterprises are adopting the platform. This momentum led to record backlog gains in the first quarter, supported by early Vera Rubin deployments and continued demand for Blackwell, Hopper and Ampere GPUs, with most new contracts contributing to growth targets through 2027. Its backlog has grown to nearly $100 billion, led by contracts that are already active or expected to come online through 2026 and 2027.
Despite impressive growth, investors should recognize several risks. A lion’s portion of its revenue comes from a relatively small number of large customers. If spending slows among major AI developers, revenue growth could moderate. Building AI infrastructure and maintaining rapid expansion requires continuous financing. First-quarter operating expenses rose to $2.2 billion as CRWV continued aggressively expanding capacity to convert backlog into revenue. Higher infrastructure spending, sales and marketing investments, and growing personnel costs contributed to the increase. It also expects substantial interest expense of $650–$730 million in the second quarter due to rising debt used to fund expansion.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Capital expenditures remain extremely high, with CoreWeave projecting $31 billion–$35 billion in 2026 spending, reflecting ongoing capacity buildouts and higher component costs. While management remains confident in its long-term backlog and growth outlook, the company continues to face significant capital requirements, elevated debt levels and near-term pressure on profitability.
The Case for NBIS StockNebius focuses heavily on AI infrastructure and GPU cloud computing. The company is building a modern AI cloud platform with an emphasis on Europe while also expanding internationally. It is rapidly scaling its infrastructure footprint, increasing contracted power capacity from just over 2 GW to more than 3.5 GW within three months and targeting at least 4 GW by 2026. The company announced a new Pennsylvania data center campus that will support up to 1.2 GW of capacity, marking its second owned gigawatt-scale site in the United States. Most of its upcoming capacity additions are scheduled for late 2026, with major projects expected to begin operations in early 2027.
Demand for Nebius’s full-stack AI platform remains strong, with its sales pipeline growing 3.5x quarter over quarter in the first quarter, excluding large hyperscaler opportunities. Adoption is expanding across industries, including fintech, life sciences, manufacturing, energy and pharmaceuticals. The company is also seeing longer contract durations, larger deal sizes and increased customer prepayments to secure capacity, reflecting strong demand and improving working capital. Notable customers include Revolut, 1X Technologies, Sword Health, Rhoda, and monday.com.
Like CRWV, NBIS also strengthened ties with NVDA. In June, it announced plans to invest approximately £1.7 billion in expanding AI compute capacity across the U.K. The investment includes three new deployments of advanced NVIDIA-powered infrastructure. Nebius also partnered with Kao Data to deploy 22 MW of AI infrastructure in the U.K. under a 10-year agreement, expanding domestic AI computing capacity and supporting its AI Cloud and Token Factory services. It maintains a strong financial position, with $9.3 billion in cash and more than $6 billion raised this year, including funding from NVIDIA and convertible debt offerings. Over 90% of its planned capital expenditures are already supported by cash and contractual commitments.
NBIS also has access to multiple financing sources, including asset-backed financing tied to customer contracts, corporate debt and its at-the-market program, while remaining focused on preserving balance sheet flexibility and limiting shareholder dilution. It pursues acquisitions to supplement inorganic expansion. In the first quarter of 2026, Nebius completed three strategic acquisitions: Tavily, Eigen AI and Clarifai. These deals enhance its capabilities in inference optimization, agentic search and software integration, helping accelerate product development, deepen customer relationships and increase platform stickiness while expanding support for emerging AI workloads.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Although the opportunity is attractive, Nebius faces several challenges. It expects EBITDA margins to remain volatile throughout 2026 as it invests heavily ahead of capacity deployments, with margins likely to weaken in the second quarter before recovering later in the year. The company has also raised its 2026 capital expenditure guidance to $20–$25 billion, reflecting aggressive expansion plans that will require additional financing through debt and other funding sources, increasing capital intensity and execution risk.
Share Performance for CRWV & NBISIn the past year, CRWV has declined 35.5% while NBIS has gained 455.9%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Valuation for CRWV & NBISAfter its rapid rise, both Nebius and CoreWeave trade at a premium valuation, as suggested by the Value Score of F. In terms of Price/Book, NBIS shares are trading at 9.91X, almost at the level of CRWV’s 10.36X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
How Do Zacks Estimates Compare for NBIS & CRWV?Analysts have significantly revised their earnings estimates upward for NBIS’ bottom line for the current year.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CRWV’s earnings for the current year has been sharply revised downward over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
NBIS or CRWV: Which Stock Has More Upside?Both CRWV and NBIS currently carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
For investors seeking a more established AI infrastructure leader, CoreWeave appears to be the stronger choice. Its proven execution, deep customer relationships and strategic access to cutting-edge NVIDIA hardware provide a solid foundation for continued growth. For investors with a higher risk tolerance and a longer investment horizon, Nebius may offer greater upside potential due to its early-stage growth profile and opportunity to expand within an underpenetrated European AI cloud market.
Ultimately, both companies could emerge as long-term winners in the AI infrastructure race. A balanced approach may involve holding both stocks for now, with CoreWeave serving as the relatively lower-risk core position and Nebius acting as a higher-potential investment.
Odvětví mREIT čelí tlaku kvůli vyšším hypotečním sazbám, slabší refinanční aktivitě a poklesu účetní hodnoty, což vede i ke snižování dividend. Zacks mu dává rank č. 211, tedy spodních 15 %.
The Zacks REIT and Equity Trust industry is bearing the brunt of mortgage rate volatility, fueled by persistent inflation and broader economic uncertainty. With mortgage rates averaging in the mid-6% in recent weeks, industry players are likely to face continued earnings pressure in the near term.
Ongoing affordability challenges in the housing market are weighing on purchase originations and refinancing activity. However, companies like Ellington Financial LLC (EFC - Free Report) , Redwood Trust Inc. (RWT - Free Report) and TPG Mortgage Investment Trust Inc. (MITT - Free Report) are well-poised to navigate industry challenges.
About the Industry The Zacks REIT and Equity Trust industry comprises mortgage REITs, also known as mREITs. Industry participants invest in and originate mortgages and mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”), and provide mortgage credit for homeowners and businesses. Typically, these companies focus on either the residential or commercial mortgage markets. Some invest in both markets through asset-backed securities. Agency securities are backed by the federal government, making them safer bets and limiting credit risks. Such REITs raise funds in the debt and equity markets through common and preferred equity, repurchase agreements, structured financing, convertible and long-term debt, and other credit facilities. The net interest margin, the spread between interest income on mortgage assets and securities held, as well as funding costs, is a key revenue metric for mREITs.
What's Shaping the Future of the mREIT Industry? Volatility in Mortgage Rates Keeps Buyers on Sidelines: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has climbed in recent weeks to the mid-6% from low-6% range in the start of the 2026.
Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates unchanged so far in 2026 as policymakers continue to balance rising inflation with a resilient labor market. Against this backdrop, mortgage rates are likely to remain elevated in the near term.
Higher borrowing costs, combined with affordability pressures and economic uncertainty, have discouraged many potential homebuyers from entering the market.
As a result, mortgage origination and refinancing activity are under pressure. This trend is expected to heighten operational and financial challenges for mREIT industry players, while weighing on gain-on-sale margins and limiting investment activity.
Industry Resorts to Dividend Cuts as Book Values Erode: Elevated interest rates, persistent mortgage market volatility, and the widening spread between 30-year Agency mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and 10-year U.S. Treasury yields have reduced the value of Agency MBS portfolios.
As such, agency mREITs are witnessing a decline in tangible book value as spreads on benchmark indices have widened. This will increase earnings pressure for highly leveraged mREITs.
To preserve capital and align payouts with sustainable earnings, many ndustry players are reducing dividends. Dividend cuts may trigger investor outflows from income-focused funds, further weighing on share prices and book values, creating near-term headwinds for the mREITs.
Conservative Approach to Aid Long-Term Returns: In the current volatile mortgage market environment, mREITs are adopting a more conservative approach, which could strengthen their long-term positioning.
By becoming more selective in their investments, these companies are focusing on higher-quality assets, thereby enhancing the overall resilience and stability of their portfolios.
This disciplined strategy helps reduce exposure to risky credit conditions and limits potential losses during periods of uncertainty.
Additionally, the use of higher hedge ratios to manage interest rate risks reflects prudent financial management. While this approach may restrict near-term upside, it improves earnings visibility and protects capital from sudden market fluctuations.
By prioritizing liquidity, asset quality and risk management, mREITs are better-equipped to navigate market volatility and capitalize on attractive opportunities once conditions stabilize.
Overall, this cautious stance supports sustainable performance and creates a stronger foundation for consistent long-term returns.
Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Bleak Prospects The Zacks REIT and Equity Trust industry is housed within the broader Zacks Finance sector. The industry carries a Zacks Industry Rank #211, which places it in the bottom 15% of more than 244 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates underperformance in the near term. 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 positioning in the bottom 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is an outcome of the discouraging earnings outlook for the constituent companies.
Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are gradually losing confidence in this group's earnings growth potential. The industry’s current-year earnings estimate moved 9.3% down over the last year.
Before we present a few stocks that you may want to buy despite near-term challenges, let us take a look at the industry’s recent stock-market performance and valuation picture.
Industry Lags the Sector & the S&P 500 The Zacks REIT and Equity Trust industry has underperformed the broader Zacks Finance sector and the S&P 500 composite in the past year.
The industry has gained 1.4% in the above-mentioned period compared with the broader sector’s rise of 15.6%. Further, the S&P Index has grown 27.7% over the past year.
Price Performance
Industry's Current Valuation Based on the trailing 12-month price-to-book (P/B), which is a commonly used multiple for valuing mREITs, the industry is trading at 0.93X compared with the S&P 500’s 8.02X. In the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 1.05X, as low as 0.70X and at the median of 0.91X.
Price-to-Book TTM
As finance stocks typically have a low P/B ratio, comparing REIT and Equity Trust with the S&P 500 may not make sense to many investors. A comparison of the group’s P/B ratio with that of the broader sector ensures that the group is trading at a solid discount. The Zacks Finance sector’s trailing 12-month P/B came in at 4.53X. This is above the Zacks REIT and Equity Trust industry’s ratio, as the chart below shows.
Price-to-Book TTM
3 mREIT Stocks to Bet On -- EFC, RWT & MITT
Ellington Financial invests in a diverse array of financial assets. These include residential and commercial mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities, consumer loans, and asset-backed securities.
The assets are supported by consumer loans, collateralized loan obligations, non-mortgage and mortgage-related derivatives, equity investments in loan origination companies, and other strategic investments.
EFC is well-positioned to weather volatility in the mortgage market, supported by its diversified exposure across residential and commercial mortgage loan portfolios, and strong momentum in its securitization platform.
The company’s loan originations, especially in commercial mortgage bridge loans, proprietary reverse mortgages and closed-end second lien loans, continue to contribute to stable growth and income.
Its first-quarter 2026 growth was driven by strong performance across its diversified mortgage and credit platforms. Its subsidiary, Longbridge Financial, remained a major earnings contributor in the first quarter of 2026, benefiting from higher loan originations, securitizations, and servicing income.
To navigate market uncertainty, Ellington Financial is actively leveraging dynamic hedging strategies, maintaining a broad and balanced portfolio, securing multiple sources of financing and operating with low leverage.
These measures reflect a disciplined approach to risk management and a commitment to preserving book value while adapting to shifting market conditions.
The company’s 2026 earnings estimates have been unchanged at $1.95 per share over the past month, indicating year-over-year growth of 7.1%.
Price and Consensus: EFC
Redwood Trust is a self-advised and self-managed real estate investment trust.
RWT specializes in acquiring and managing real estate mortgage assets, which may be acquired as whole loans or as mortgage securities representing interests in or obligations, backed by pools of mortgage loans.
The company has been witnessing exceptional growth in its mortgage banking platforms over the recent quarters despite a volatile interest-rate environment.
Mortgage banking production reached a record $8.5 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking the third consecutive quarterly record, supported by strong demand for Sequoia and Aspire products, increased securitization activity and higher whole-loan sales.
In recent months, RWT undertook targeted actions to simplify its operating structure and sharpen its focus on businesses generating strong and sustainable returns. This positions the platform to realize cost savings in the future.
Redwood Trust’s 2026 earnings have been unchanged at $1.28 over the past month. It indicates a year-over-year jump of 45.5%.
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank # 2 (Buy) and a market capitalization of $659.9 million.
Price and Consensus: RWT
TPG Mortgage is a residential mREIT with a focus on investing in a diversified risk-adjusted portfolio of residential mortgage-related assets principally in the U.S. mortgage market.
Over the past few quarters, MITT’s growth has been driven by a resilient residential mortgage portfolio and disciplined capital management despite market volatility.
The company maintained an $8.1-billion investment portfolio in the first quarter of 2026, supported by $7.7 billion of financing, primarily through non-recourse borrowings, while keeping economic leverage at a conservative 1.7X. The company is also benefiting from stable net interest income and continued strength in its investment in Arc Home.
In February 2026, TPG Mortgage announced a long-term strategic investment management partnership with Jackson Financial Inc., which is expected to unlock additional avenues for growth over time.
TPG Mortgage’s 2026 earnings have been unchanged at $1.09 per share over the past month. It indicates a year-over-year rally of 26.7%.
At present, MITT has a Zacks Rank #2 and a market capitalization of $252.5 million.
Quantum Computing Inc. dokončila akvizici NHanced Semiconductors za 73,1 mil. USD s možností dalších 72,0 mil. USD při splnění cílů. Transakce rozšiřuje výrobní kapacity a urychluje přechod k komerční produkci.
Strategic acquisition launches Fab 2 to accelerate key roadmap initiatives and expands manufacturing capabilities , /PRNewswire/ -- Quantum Computing Inc. ("QCi" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: QUBT), an innovative, quantum optics and integrated photonics technology company, today announced the completion of acquiring NHanced Semiconductors, Inc. ("NHanced"), for a combination of cash and QCi stock valued at $73.1 million, subject to customary adjustments, and up to an additional $72.0 million if certain performance targets are achieved (the "Transaction").
The acquisition marks an important step in QCi's transition from research-driven innovation and prototyping to scalable commercial production. By adding semiconductor and nanophotonics fabrication capabilities, advanced packaging expertise and specialized engineering talent, QCi is strengthening its operational capabilities and manufacturing readiness. Advanced photonics technology and manufacturing are at the core of QCi's commercialization roadmap. The recent acquisition and successful integration of Luminar Semiconductor Inc. have installed world-class expertise and fabrication in laser, light detection, photonic packaging, and testing at QCi. This acquisition will provide the foundation for scalable chip-manufacturing of the Company's quantum and photonics technologies, supporting commercialization efforts and advancing its vision of a vertically integrated platform spanning research, development and manufacturing. It positions QCi to address growing market demand across quantum computing, sensing, networking, and photonics markets while accelerating the path from innovation to market deployment. Aside from its quantum technology and product portfolio, QCi now also offers leading-edge services, products, and solutions in semiconductor and nanophotonics manufacturing, lasers, detectors, testing, and packaging.
"The acquisition of NHanced significantly enhances our nanophotonics manufacturing capabilities and strengthens QCi's ability to execute its long-term growth strategy. Last year, we successfully completed and operationalized Fab 1, a pioneering, small-scale manufacturing facility in Tempe, Arizona. Today, we are delivering on our commitment to launch Fab 2 and expand our manufacturing capabilities and capacity years ahead of our original timeline. By adding proven fabrication assets and deep technical expertise, we are accelerating commercialization across all verticals and substantially advancing the development and scaling of our thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic integrated circuit platform. The expanded manufacturing footprint will increase production flexibility, enhance operational resilience and support future revenue growth. The Transaction accelerates our path to commercial-scale production and reflects our commitment to strategically investing in infrastructure that drives long-term growth and shareholder value. We look forward to welcoming the talented NHanced team to QCi and combining our strengths to advance the commercialization of quantum and photonic technologies," said Yuping Huang, CEO of QCi.
NHanced is a U.S-based advanced packaging foundry specializing in integration, hybrid bonding, chiplet architectures, silicon interposers and photonics device integration. Its expertise in advanced semiconductor packaging and manufacturing complements QCi's photonic and quantum portfolio, creating opportunities to accelerate commercialization and scale next-generation quantum and photonics solutions enabled by the 2.5D/3D heterogeneous integration and scale-up of QCi's TFLN-on-Silicon Photonics technologies.
The acquisition is expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, bolster supply-chain resilience and support the development of advanced photonic chips for applications spanning quantum computing, artificial intelligence, networking, secure communications and defense technologies. This acquisition bridges the gap between quantum innovation and scalable semiconductor products, helping bring next-generation photonics and quantum solutions to market more efficiently.
"Joining forces with QCi marks an exciting new chapter for our company, our employees and our technology. Over the years, we have built a world-class semiconductor platform with a focus on innovation, manufacturing, excellence and customer success. By combining our expertise with QCi's vision for photonic and quantum technologies, we believe we can accelerate the commercialization and manufacturing of next-generation solutions and create greater value for customers and partners. We are proud of what our team has accomplished and look forward to contributing to QCi's mission," said Bob Patti, CEO of NHanced.
NHanced will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of QCi, remaining committed to supporting its current customers and partners, including those within the quantum ecosystem, and will continue to provide the products, services and technical expertise its customers rely on today while pursuing new opportunities for growth and innovation.
Rosenblatt served as financial advisor, and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation served as legal counsel, to QCi. Needham & Company served as financial advisor, and Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP served as legal counsel, to NHanced.
About Quantum Computing Inc.
Quantum Computing Inc. (Nasdaq: QUBT) is a quantum optics and integrated photonics company focused on delivering accessible, scalable, and cost-effective quantum machines and photonic solutions. The Company provides foundry services for thin-film lithium niobate ("TFLN") photonic chips and offers a vertically integrated portfolio spanning photonics components, subsystems, and full-stack systems.
Designed to operate at room-temperature with low-power requirements, QCi's technologies enable practical deployment across high-growth markets, including high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, aerospace and defense, and advanced sensing and imaging.
Headquartered in Hoboken, New Jersey, QCi has operations in Arizona, California, Illinois, Massachusetts and Virginia. By combining advanced materials, device engineering, and scalable manufacturing, QCi delivers integrated quantum and photonics technologies, accelerating commercialization and real-world adoption.
Company Contact:
John Nesbett/Zach Nevas
IMS Investor Relations
[email protected]
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements and forecasts, generally identified by terms such as "may," "will," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "enhance," "intends," "goal," "objective," "seek," "attempt," "aim to," or variations of these or similar words, involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief, or current expectations of QCi and members of its management as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, including the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances under which the anticipated benefits of the Transaction are not realized when expected or at all, including as a result of the impact of, or problems arising from, the integration of NHanced, diversion of management's attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities, operating costs and business disruption following the Transaction, exposure to potential litigation, the integration of NHanced's products and technologies with QCi, and the acceleration of QCi's development roadmap, supply chain risks, NHanced customer retention risks, and that actual results (including revenue growth and value creation) may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Except as required by federal securities law, QCi undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward- looking statements to reflect changed conditions.
Společnost QUBT vykázala rekordní tržby ve výši 3,7 mil. USD za 1. čtvrtletí 2026 a zakončila období s backlogem 16 mil. USD a zhruba 1,4 mld. USD v hotovosti a investicích. Průměrný cenový cíl analytiků naznačuje 73,9% růst.
Key Takeaways QUBT posted record $3.7M first-quarter 2026 revenues, driven by Luminar Semiconductor and NuCrypt buyouts.Quantum Computing ended the quarter with a $16M contract backlog and about $1.4B in cash and investments.QUBT regained its 50-day moving average, while analysts' average price target implies 73.9% upside. Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT - Free Report) or QCi has delivered a modest 6.2% gain over the past two months, trailing the broader Computer & Technology sector's 11.8% advance and the company’s direct peer IonQ’s (IONQ - Free Report) 23.2% growth. The relative underperformance stands in contrast to the company's improving fundamentals, raising an important question for investors: Is it time to book profits, or does the stock still have room to run? Let’s find out.
QUBT: 60-day Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The fundamental picture for QCi has strengthened meaningfully in recent months. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter 2026 and the current year has risen over the past 60 days, reflecting growing confidence in the company's execution.
Estimates for first-quarter loss per share have narrowed by 1 cent to a loss of 5 cents per share in the past 60 days. The same for the current year has narrowed by 10 cents to a loss of 14 cents per share in the said time frame.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The upward estimate revisions follow a solid first-quarter 2026 report, in which QUBT posted record revenues of $3.7 million, driven primarily by the Luminar Semiconductor and NuCrypt acquisitions. The company ended the quarter with a $16 million contract backlog and approximately $1.4 billion in cash, cash equivalents and investments.
QUBT management also reiterated its strategy of transitioning from a technology innovator to a volume manufacturer through Fab 2, expanding commercial deployments, advancing next-generation quantum hardware and strengthening its integrated photonics platform.
QUBT 50-and-200-Day SMAs
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
While the fundamental outlook has improved, the technical setup also suggests the rally may not be fully mature yet. QUBT has regained its 50-day simple moving average, reflecting improving short-term momentum, but the shares continue to trade below the 200-day moving average, a closely watched long-term resistance level. Any significant move above that threshold could support bullish sentiment.
Upbeat Target Price TooBased on short-term price targets from six analysts, the average price target for Quantum Computing represents a 73.9% increase over the last closing price of $10.54.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Our TakeQUBT appears well-positioned for additional upside. Rising earnings estimates, a strong balance sheet, expanding commercialization efforts and favorable quantum computing tailwinds support its long-term growth story. The stock's recent underperformance relative to the broader technology sector also suggests that much of its improving fundamental outlook may not yet be fully reflected in the share price. Backing this optimism, QUBT currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), making the stock worth considering for investors seeking exposure to the fast-growing quantum computing space. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Navitas uvedla, že její AI infrastruktura v 1. čtvrtletí vzrostla mezičtvrtletně o 50 % a že segment energetiky a sítí vidí jako trh o velikosti 1–1,8 mld. USD do roku 2030. Firma má navíc 221 mil. USD v hotovosti a žádný dluh.
Key Takeaways Navitas' AI infrastructure unit grew 50% sequentially in Q1, including data centers and grid infrastructure.Navitas sees energy and grid as a $1-$1.8B serviceable market by 2030, driven by power demand.NVTS has no debt, $221M in cash, and a 2030 serviceable market outlook of $3.5B across GaN and SiC. Most investors know Navitas Semiconductor (NVTS - Free Report) for its artificial intelligence (AI) story. The company has attracted much attention through its partnership with NVIDIA (NVDA - Free Report) , its 800V data center power architecture, and its gallium nitride (GaN) technology aimed at next-generation AI infrastructure.
But there's another growth driver taking shape in the background. As AI data centers consume ever-larger amounts of electricity, the need to upgrade and modernize the power grid is becoming increasingly urgent. And that's creating a meaningful opportunity for Navitas' silicon carbide (SiC) business.
Navitas' $1.8B Grid OpportunityOn the company's last earnings call, management revealed that its AI infrastructure segment—which includes both data centers and grid infrastructure—grew 50% sequentially. CEO Chris Allexandre emphasized that the two markets are closely linked.
The opportunity could be larger than many investors appreciate. Traditional transformers were designed decades ago and are increasingly being stretched by today's power requirements. As AI data centers proliferate and electricity consumption rises, utilities may need more efficient solutions capable of handling higher power loads. Management believes solid-state transformers and other advanced power-conversion technologies could become an important part of that transition.
In other words, the AI boom is creating a massive new demand for electricity, and that demand is forcing utilities and infrastructure providers to invest in grid upgrades. Customer engagement in the U.S. grid infrastructure accelerated in the first quarter of 2026. Navitas is already seeing interest from customers involved in grid-scale solar, megawatt power conversion, and other energy infrastructure projects, with adoption expected to build through 2026 and 2027 before accelerating further later in the decade. Importantly, Navitas sees the energy and grid segment alone representing a $1-$1.8 billion serviceable market by 2030.
Navitas’ 2.3kV and 3.3kV SiC modules are designed for applications like battery energy storage systems, utility solar farms, and solid-state transformers. Its 250kW solid-state transformer demonstration uses GeneSiC technology for scalable 800V DC distribution.
NVTS Combined TAM Makes the Real CaseNavitas puts its total serviceable addressable market at $3.5 billion by 2030— split roughly 50-50 between GaN and high-voltage SiC technologies, with a combined CAGR exceeding 60%. Management is laser-focused on data centers and grid opportunity, which it identifies as the largest portion of that total addressable market.
Navitas maintains a strong balance sheet with no debt and substantial liquidity. The company ended the first quarter of 2026 with $221 million in cash and cash equivalents. This financial position provides flexibility to continue investing in research and development, customer engagements, and product commercialization without immediate financing pressure.
Basically, the AI and grid infrastructure are not separate investment themes. They are, in fact, two sides of the same story. AI is driving an unprecedented increase in power demand, while grid modernization is the response required to support that demand.
Because Navitas has exposure to both data center power systems through GaN and grid infrastructure through high-voltage SiC, it sits at the intersection of these trends. Investors focused solely on the AI narrative may be missing a second growth engine that could become increasingly important over the next several years.
Competitive Landscape: onsemi & STMicroelectronicsonsemi (ON - Free Report) has built a strong position in energy storage systems (ESS), with management citing market share approaching 60% in string ESS and microgrid applications, and expecting revenues from these segments to grow more than 40% year over year in 2026. onsemi’s GaNEXUS power portfolio— targeting AI data center infrastructure and industrial power—recognizes the big opportunity in these areas.
STMicroelectronics (STM - Free Report) is similarly making grid and energy infrastructure a strategic priority, investing heavily in silicon carbide technologies while expanding relationships with solar, battery storage and power-conversion customers. As renewable energy deployment accelerates globally, STMicroelectronics is positioning its high-efficiency SiC portfolio to capture growing demand across industrial electrification and grid modernization.
NVTS' Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Navitas have rallied 232% year to date compared with the industry’s growth of 66%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, Navitas trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of roughly 97X, significantly higher than the industry’s 10X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Navitas’ 2026 and 2027 bottom line is pegged at a loss of 17 cents/share and 15 cents/share, respectively. See how the loss estimates have been revised over the past 90 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Navitas currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here
Americké ministerstvo energetiky podmíněně schválilo 17,5 miliardy USD na úvěry pro výstavbu až 10 reaktorů Westinghouse AP1000 v USA. Financování má urychlit výstavbu až o tři roky.
June 23, 2026 10:22 ET | Source: Brookfield Asset Management Ltd
BROOKFIELD, News, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE: BAM) (“Brookfield”) is pleased to share that the U.S. Department of Energy’s (“DOE”) Office of Energy Dominance Financing (“EDF”) has conditionally committed funding for $17.5 billion in loan facilities (the “American Supply Chain Loans” or “the Loans”) to support investment in U.S. nuclear reactors. The Loans intend to finance the long-lead equipment necessary to construct up to 10 Westinghouse Electric Company (“Westinghouse”) AP1000 nuclear reactors in the United States. Westinghouse is a leading global nuclear services business jointly owned by Brookfield and its institutional partners (51%) and Cameco Corporation (49%).
Connor Teskey, Chief Executive Officer of Brookfield Asset Management, said: “Westinghouse continues to be at the forefront of major public and private partnerships that will materially accelerate the build-out of large-scale nuclear power generation, help meet growing energy demand, and support energy security in the U.S. The loan facilities help advance President Trump’s Executive Order and serves as a catalyst for nuclear, providing the certainty needed to enhance the domestic nuclear supply chain and accelerate construction of nuclear projects that will deliver reliable baseload power around the country for decades to come.”
The conditional financing package will enable eligible utility and energy company partners, the anticipated owners of the projects, to purchase long-lead items and help accelerate construction and commercial operations of Westinghouse reactors by up to three years, with the aim of having 10 reactors under construction by 2030. It is expected that DOE may make up to five Loans, with each loan supporting two reactors.
While this conditional commitment indicates DOE’s intent to provide loans to finance the projects, Westinghouse, its owners, and its partners must satisfy certain technical, legal, environmental, and financial conditions before DOE enters into definitive financing documents and funds the Loans.
About Brookfield
Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (NYSE: BAM, TSX, BAM) is a leading global alternative asset manager, headquartered in New York, with over $1 trillion of assets under management across infrastructure, energy, private equity, real estate, and credit. We invest client capital for the long-term with a focus on real assets and essential service businesses that form the backbone of the global economy. We offer a range of alternative investment products to investors around the world — including public and private pension plans, endowments and foundations, sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions, insurance companies and private wealth investors. We draw on Brookfield’s heritage as an owner and operator to invest for value and generate strong returns for our clients, across economic cycles.
For more information, please visit our website at www.brookfield.com
Contact information:
Media:Investors:Simon Maine Alex JacksonManaging Director – CorporateVice President – InvestorCommunicationsRelations (332) 298-0447 (416) [email protected]@brookfield.com Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking information
This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of other relevant securities legislation, including applicable securities laws in Canada, which reflect our current views with respect to, among other things, our operations and financial performance (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future results, events or conditions, and include, but are not limited to, statements which reflect management’s current estimates, beliefs and assumptions and which are in turn based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates, beliefs and assumptions of BAM are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and other uncertainties and contingencies regarding future events and as such, are subject to change. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “intend”, expect”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “foresee”, “could”, “estimate”, “goal”, “plan”, “seek”, “strive”, “will”, “may” and “should” and similar expressions. In particular, the forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements referring to the expectation of the DOE to make the Loans and satisfaction of certain conditions prior to entering into definitive financing documents.
Although BAM believes that such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable estimates, beliefs and assumptions, certain factors, risks and uncertainties, which are described from time to time in our documents filed with the securities regulators in the United States and Canada, not presently known to BAM, or that BAM currently believes are not material, could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements. Reference should be made to “Item 1A - Risk Factors” and “Item 7 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Forward-Looking Statements” in BAM’s most recently filed annual report on Form 10-K.
Readers are urged to consider these risks, as well as other uncertainties, factors and assumptions carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are based only on information available to us as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, BAM undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Sharplink oznámil emisi 10,013,351 akcií a warrantů za zhruba 75 milionů USD, s cenou 7,49 USD za kus, tedy 41 % nad poslední uzavírací cenou. Výtěžek chce použít na provozní kapitál, nákup ETH a zpětný odkup akcií.
MIAMI, June 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sharplink, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBET) ("Sharplink" or the "Company"), one of the world's largest corporate holders of Ether ("ETH") and a prominent industry advocate of Ethereum adoption, today announced that it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with an institutional investor (the “Investor”) for the purchase and sale of 10,013,351 shares of its common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Shares), and accompanying warrants to purchase up to 10,013,351 shares of common stock (the “Warrants”), at a combined purchase price of $7.49 per Share and Warrant. The purchase price represents a 41% premium to the Company’s closing share price of $5.29 on June 18, 2026 (the “Closing Share Price”), as reported on the Nasdaq Capital Market, and a premium to the net asset value (“NAV”) of Sharplink’s ETH holdings1 reported as of June 16, 2026 of 875,776 ETH. The Warrants will have an exercise price of $8.15 per Share, will be exercisable immediately upon issuance, and will expire four (4) years from the date of issuance.
The aggregate gross proceeds from the registered direct offering (the “Offering”) are expected to be approximately $75 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company. The closing of the Offering is expected to occur on or about Tuesday, June 23, 2026, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for working capital and other general corporate purposes, including, but not limited to, the accumulation of additional ETH and the repurchase of the Company’s common stock pursuant to the Company’s stock repurchase program.
Commenting on the transaction, Joseph Chalom, Sharplink’s Chief Executive Officer, stated, “This financing represents a powerful endorsement of Sharplink’s Ethereum treasury strategy. The fact that we raised capital at a premium to both our prevailing market price and the value of our underlying ETH holdings demonstrates that sophisticated investors recognize the unique value proposition we are building. Moreover, it is becoming evident that public market investors are increasingly seeking more than passive ETH exposure. They are looking for platforms capable of compounding ETH ownership and share value over time through active capital allocation, strategic treasury management and access to opportunities unavailable to most market participants.
“By issuing equity above the value of our existing ETH holdings, this transaction is immediately supportive of our objective to increase ETH exposure on an accretive per-share basis while preserving financial flexibility. The proceeds from this offering enhance our ability to expand our Ethereum treasury, opportunistically repurchase shares and continue executing on our mission to build the leading institutional-grade, most productive Ethereum treasury platform in the public markets.”
The Offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3ASR (File No. 333-287708), which was automatically declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on May 30, 2025. The Offering is being made only by means of a prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus that form a part of the effective shelf registration statement. A prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the Offering will be filed by the Company with the SEC. When available, copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the Offering, together with the accompanying prospectus, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by contacting A.G.P./Alliance Capital Partners, 590 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10022.
A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners is acting as the sole placement agent for the Offering.
Thompson Hine LLP is acting as legal advisor to Sharplink. Sullivan & Worcester LLP is acting as legal advisor to A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described above, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.
1 Total ETH holdings represent ETH as-if redeemed from LsETH and WeETH.
About Sharplink, Inc.
Sharplink is a leading institutional-grade Ethereum treasury platform designed to give public market investors smarter, more productive exposure to ETH. Ethereum underpins the majority of global stablecoin, tokenized real-world assets and decentralized finance settlement, making ETH a unique native yield generation and long-term network growth opportunity. In addition to its Ethereum treasury platform, Sharplink operates an online affiliate marketing business. Sharplink was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Miami, Florida. Learn more at www.sharplink.com.
Forward-Looking Statement
Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and these forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Such statements include, but are not limited to, goals and expectations regarding the Company’s strategy and potential partnerships; the intended use of proceeds, including potential share repurchases; the Company’s Ethereum treasury strategy and expected common stock per-share effects; and other statements accompanied by the words “intends,” “may,” “will,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “aims,” “believes,” “hopes,” “potential” or similar words, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Actual results could differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements due to certain factors, including without limitation, the anticipated gross proceeds from the Offering, the intended use of proceeds therefrom, the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, and the expected timing and completion of the Offering, the potential use of the Company’s ATM facility; the Company’s ability to repurchase additional shares of its common stock under its stock repurchase program; the Company’s ability to achieve and sustain profitable operations; volatility in the market price of ETH and its resulting impact on the Company’s accounting and financial reporting; changes in government regulation of cryptocurrencies and online betting; changes in securities laws or other applicable regulations; fluctuations in customer demand and overall economic conditions; competitive pressures, including competing products, pricing, and sales cycles; the protection and enforcement of the Company’s proprietary rights; and other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Annual Report and other filings with the SEC. Under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, entities are generally required to measure certain crypto assets at fair value, with changes reflected in net income each reporting period. Changes in the fair value of crypto assets could result in significant fluctuations to the balance sheet and income statement results. Additionally, for other certain types of crypto assets, the Company uses the historical costs less impairment model. This model may require the Company to record an associated impairment charge reflected in net income as a result of a decrease in the market price of the crypto assets below the cost value at which the Company’s crypto assets are carried on its balance sheet. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company does not undertake any responsibility to update the forward-looking statements in this press release. There can be no assurance that any repurchases will be made under the program, and any repurchases may be suspended, modified or discontinued at any time and are subject to market conditions and applicable legal requirements.
CONTACT:
Sharplink’s Investor Relations Contact:
Sean Mansouri, CFA or Aaron D’Souza | Elevate IR
Phone: (720) 330-2829
Email: [email protected]
Kohl’s v 1. čtvrtletí fiskálního roku 2026 zvýšil srovnatelné tržby vlastních značek o 6 % a hrubá marže stoupla o 4 bazické body na 39,9 %. Tahouny byly FLX, Tek Gear a So, přičemž Juniors vzrostla o 10 %.
Key Takeaways Kohl's proprietary brands posted a 6% comparable sales increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2026. Kohl's gross margin expanded 4 basis points to 39.9%, helped by higher proprietary brand penetration. FLX, Tek Gear and So showed strength, with Juniors up 10% and FLX expanding to Kids by June. Kohl’s Corporation (KSS - Free Report) is sharpening its focus on proprietary brands as a core element of its value proposition, with the category supporting merchandise margin in the first quarter of fiscal 2026.
Proprietary brands delivered a 6% comparable sales increase in the quarter, supported by customer demand for value-oriented offerings across categories. Kohl’s positions these brands as quality products offered at affordable opening price points, making them an important part of its merchandise mix.
The strength was visible across several businesses. Women’s, Kids, Home and Accessories posted flat to slightly positive comparable sales trends, while key proprietary labels such as FLX and Tek Gear showed strength across categories. Juniors was a standout, rising 10%, led by the So brand. Kohl’s is also expanding its proprietary brand presence, including the rollout of FLX to Kids in all stores by June.
The higher contribution from these brands showed up in profitability metrics. Gross margin expanded 4 basis points year over year to 39.9% in the first quarter, driven by higher proprietary brand penetration. However, the benefit was largely offset by increased shipping costs tied to higher digital penetration.
The key takeaway is that proprietary brands are giving Kohl’s a clearer margin-supporting lever while reinforcing its value and quality positioning. The first-quarter gain was limited by shipping pressure, but the 6% comparable sales increase shows that these brands are gaining traction where Kohl’s is leaning hardest.
How Are Target and Walmart Driving Margin Expansion?Target Corporation (TGT) is benefiting from a favorable sales and revenue mix. In first-quarter 2026, TGT’s gross margin rate expanded 80 basis points year over year to 29%, driven by supply-chain productivity improvements, growth in higher-margin revenue streams such as Roundel and Target Plus, and lower markdown rates, partly offset by higher product costs.
Walmart Inc. (WMT) is pursuing margin expansion through business and merchandise mix improvements. WMT’s gross profit rate rose 6 basis points to 24.3% in first-quarter fiscal 2027, led by Walmart U.S. Within Walmart U.S., the gross profit increased 29 basis points, supported by improved business mix and merchandise mix, partly offset by higher fuel costs. Walmart also continues to scale higher-margin areas such as advertising, marketplace and membership.
KSS Stock Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Kohl’s have surged 114.1% over the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 69%.
KSS Price Performance Versus Industry
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, KSS trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 13, lower than the industry’s average of 13.32.
KSS’ Valuation Compared to Industry
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
BigBear.ai má forward P/S 12,11x, tedy nad úrovní odvětví, ale těží z nových kontraktů a 14% růstu backlogu na 281,9 mil. USD. Firma zůstává ztrátová a závislá na vládních zakázkách.
Key Takeaways BBAI trades at a forward P/S of 12.11X, above the industry's 11.89X, despite weak stock performance.BBAI's contract wins, 14% backlog growth and software shift are strengthening its AI growth outlook.BBAI remains unprofitable, with government spending dependence and integration risks weighing on sentiment. BigBear.ai Holdings, Inc. (BBAI - Free Report) currently trades at a forward 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 12.11X, modestly above the Zacks Computers – IT Services industry's 11.89X. Although the premium is not excessive, it reflects expectations that the company can deliver faster growth than many of its peers.
BBAI Stock’s Valuation (P/S F12M)
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
BigBear.ai remains one of the more closely followed pure-play artificial intelligence stocks, thanks to its growing presence in defense, homeland security and border protection. The company is benefiting from rising demand for AI-powered decision intelligence, generative AI and computer vision solutions across government agencies. However, investors continue to debate whether the company's long-term growth potential justifies its premium valuation.
The challenge is that operating performance has yet to fully match those expectations. Shares have plunged 28.1% year to date, underperforming the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector's 18.2% gain and the S&P 500's 10% increase, although they have held up better than the industry's 21.7% decline. Investors are weighing BigBear.ai's improving business fundamentals against execution risks, persistent losses and a valuation that still leaves little room for disappointment.
BBAI’s Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
BBAI’s AI Strategy Is Gaining TractionBigBear.ai's first-quarter 2026 results showed encouraging progress despite essentially flat revenues. Sales slipped 1% year over year to $34.4 million as lower activity on certain Army programs offset contributions from the Ask Sage acquisition. More importantly, profitability at the gross margin level improved significantly, with gross margin expanding to 34% from 21.3% a year earlier, reflecting a richer mix of higher-margin generative AI software products. The company also reaffirmed its 2026 revenue outlook of $135-$165 million, signaling confidence that growth will strengthen during the rest of the year.
Management continues to focus on two attractive markets—national security and trade & travel—where AI adoption remains in its early stages. Instead of pursuing every enterprise AI opportunity, BigBear.ai is concentrating on mission-critical applications where operational expertise creates a competitive advantage.
Contract Wins Strengthen Growth Outlook for BBAI StockThe company's recent contract momentum supports management's confidence. During the first quarter, BigBear.ai secured a $53 million classified intelligence community contract, won airport security projects at Chicago O'Hare and Dallas-Fort Worth airports, expanded Shipyard AI deployments through contracts with Chantier Davie and Bollinger Shipyards, and added new Ask Sage customers, including NASA, the Army Intelligence and Security Command, and the Naval Research Laboratory. These wins demonstrate growing acceptance of the company's AI technologies across defense and government agencies.
Backlog also increased 14% sequentially to $281.9 million, providing better revenue visibility over the next several quarters. Management expects additional opportunities as procurement activity improves within the Department of Homeland Security following recent budget approvals and organizational changes.
Software Mix Is Improving Margins for BigBear.aiOne of BigBear.ai's biggest positives is its ongoing shift toward software and AI platforms.
Ask Sage has become an important driver of this transition. The platform provides secure generative AI capabilities for government agencies while allowing customers to use multiple AI models without vendor lock-in. During the quarter, Ask Sage introduced a simplified interface and expanded agent-building capabilities to improve customer adoption.
CargoSeer is also broadening BigBear.ai's product portfolio through AI-powered cargo inspection and fraud detection solutions for customs agencies. Combined with Shipyard AI and ProModel, these products should gradually increase recurring software revenue while supporting higher margins than traditional services. Management also completed an organizational restructuring designed to align engineering, sales and customer teams more closely with its highest-priority markets.
BBAI Stock’s Premium Valuation Leaves Limited Margin for ErrorDespite these positives, BigBear.ai's valuation continues to demand strong execution. A forward sales multiple above the industry average suggests investors expect sustained double-digit growth and continued margin expansion. However, current financial results still fall short of that expectation. Revenue growth remains modest, and profitability has not yet reached the level typically associated with premium software companies.
As a result, even relatively small operational disappointments can lead to meaningful stock volatility. This partly explains why BBAI shares have struggled despite positive contract announcements and improving margins.
Losses and Execution Risks Remain Key Concerns for BBAISeveral fundamental challenges continue to weigh on investor sentiment. Although gross margin improved substantially, the company remains unprofitable. Adjusted EBITDA stayed negative during the first quarter as higher selling expenses, acquisition-related amortization and integration costs offset much of the margin improvement. While debt reduction has lowered interest expense, management still needs to demonstrate that revenue growth can outpace operating costs over time.
The business also remains highly dependent on government spending. Contract awards can be delayed by procurement cycles, budget negotiations or administrative approvals, creating uneven quarterly results. Even with a growing backlog, the timing of revenue recognition remains difficult to predict.
Integration risk also deserves attention. BigBear.ai continues integrating Ask Sage and CargoSeer while simultaneously expanding its go-to-market strategy. Successfully converting these acquisitions into faster revenue growth will be critical over the next several quarters.
These uncertainties help explain why the stock has declined sharply this year despite improving operational metrics.
Stronger Balance Sheet Supports Long-Term Growth for BBAIThe company's financial position has improved considerably. BigBear.ai ended the first quarter with approximately $431.5 million in cash and investments after eliminating most of its convertible debt earlier this year. Lower debt reduces future interest expense while giving management greater flexibility to invest in product development, pursue acquisitions and support long-term growth initiatives.
Analysts also expect gradual improvement. During the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company's 2026 loss has narrowed to 25 cents per share from 35 cents. Revenues are projected to increase roughly 13% this year and another 13.7% in 2027, while losses are expected to continue narrowing.
BBAI’s Earnings Estimate Revision Trend
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Comparing BigBear.ai With Industry PeersBigBear.ai competes with Palantir Technologies (PLTR - Free Report) , C3.ai (AI - Free Report) and Booz Allen Hamilton (BAH - Free Report) , although each company serves the AI market differently.
Palantir continues to lead the government AI market with stronger revenue growth, expanding profitability and significantly larger commercial operations. Its execution has been superior, although its valuation is considerably higher than BigBear.ai's.
C3.ai remains focused on enterprise AI software across both commercial and government customers. It offers broader industry exposure than BigBear.ai but continues to work toward consistent profitability.
Booz Allen Hamilton combines decades of government relationships with expanding AI consulting capabilities. It generates far more stable earnings and cash flows than BigBear.ai, making it a lower-risk alternative for investors seeking exposure to government AI spending.
Buy, Hold or Sell for BBAI Stock?BigBear.ai is making meaningful progress. Contract wins are increasing, backlog continues to expand, software products are becoming a larger part of the business and the balance sheet is significantly stronger than it was a year ago. The improving earnings outlook also reflects better operating momentum.
Nevertheless, investors should recognize that much of the long-term opportunity remains forward-looking. Revenue growth has not yet accelerated meaningfully, profitability remains elusive and dependence on government procurement continues to create execution risk. Given these challenges, the stock's premium valuation appears difficult to justify today.
These factors support the current Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). While BigBear.ai possesses attractive long-term AI assets, investors may be better served waiting for stronger revenue growth, clearer progress toward profitability and a more attractive valuation before becoming more constructive on the stock.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Cava po výsledcích za 1. čtvrtletí zvýšila celoroční výhled: očekává 75 až 77 nových restaurací a růst tržeb ve srovnatelných provozovnách o 4,5 % až 6,5 %.
It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Cava Group (CAVA - Free Report) . Shares have added about 9.3% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.
But investors have to be wondering, will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Cava due for a pullback? Well, first let's take a quick look at its latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for CAVA Group, Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
CAVA's Q1 Earnings & Revenues Beat EstimatesCAVA delivered first-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings of $0.20 per share, down 9.1% from the year-ago quarter, but beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.17 by 17.65%. Total revenues rose 32.1% year over year to $0.44 billion and topped the consensus mark of $0.42 billion by 4.49%.
Results reflected a combination of unit growth and healthy demand trends. Same Restaurant Sales increased 9.7% in the quarter, including Guest Traffic growth of 6.8%, supporting a step-up in restaurant volumes.
CAVA Q1 Unit Growth Drives Restaurant Sales ExpansionOn the top line, CAVA revenues grew 32.2% year over year to $434.4 million, primarily reflecting contributions from 92 Net New CAVA Restaurant Openings during or subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2025. The company ended the quarter with 459 CAVA restaurants, up from 382 a year earlier.
Management also highlighted that new restaurant openings continue to exceed expectations in both top-line and margin performance, with first-quarter new restaurant productivity trending above 100%. That early performance can support continued reinvestment in new markets as the chain scales.
CAVA’s Q1 Restaurant-Level MarginCAVA’s restaurant-level profit margin was 25.1% in the first quarter, flat year over year, even as the business absorbed incremental wage investments and a higher mix of third-party delivery. The company said leverage from higher sales helped offset those pressures, keeping profitability at the restaurant level stable.
Cost structure details underscore that balance. Food, beverage and packaging costs were 29.1% of CAVA revenues, down 20 basis points versus the prior-year quarter, largely due to a favorable mix. Labor and related costs were 25.7% of revenues, approximately flat year over year, as sales leverage was offset by a 2% investment in team member wages, including the expansion of an Assistant General Manager role.
CAVA Generates Strong Cash Flow in Q1CAVA paired growth with improved cash generation. Net cash provided by operating activities was $64.1 million for the quarter, up from $38.6 million a year ago. Capital spending remained elevated as the company built out its footprint, with purchases of property and equipment of $48.6 million, resulting in free cash flow of $15.5 million.
Liquidity also remained ample. The company ended the quarter with $295.8 million of cash and cash equivalents and $107.2 million of investments, and it reported access to a $150 million revolving credit facility. Management said this base is expected to support near-term expansion and operating needs.
CAVA Raises FY26 OutlookReflecting first-quarter momentum, CAVA raised its full-year fiscal 2026 outlook. The company now expects 75-77 net new restaurant openings, compared with prior guidance of 74-76. Same Restaurant Sales growth is now expected to be 4.5%-6.5%, up from 3.0%-5.0% previously.
Profitability and investment assumptions moved as well. CAVA lifted its CAVA restaurant-level profit margin outlook to 23.7%-24.3% (from 23.7%-24.2%) and raised its pre-opening cost outlook to $22.0-$22.5 million (from $19.5-$20.0 million). Adjusted EBITDA is now expected to be $181-$191 million, up from $176-$184 million.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?Since the earnings release, investors have witnessed a upward trend in fresh estimates.
The consensus estimate has shifted 7.71% due to these changes.
VGM ScoresCurrently, Cava has a great Growth Score of A, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with a D. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock has a score of F on the value side, putting it in the bottom 20% quintile for value investors.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. Interestingly, Cava has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.
Performance of an Industry PlayerCava belongs to the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry. Another stock from the same industry, Jack In The Box (JACK - Free Report) , has gained 11% over the past month. More than a month has passed since the company reported results for the quarter ended March 2026.
Jack In The Box reported revenues of $254.26 million in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -24.5%. EPS of $0.76 for the same period compares with $1.20 a year ago.
Jack In The Box is expected to post earnings of $0.90 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -11.8%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -0.4%.
The overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions translate into a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for Jack In The Box. Also, the stock has a VGM Score of B.
CAVA spustila CavaCore a rozšířila CAVA Current, aby zlepšila rozhodování a provoz restaurací. Zároveň hlásí silnější zapojení do věrnostního programu i nové položky v nabídce, včetně Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon.
Key Takeaways CAVA launched CavaCore and expanded CAVA Current to improve operations and decision-making.CAVA reported stronger loyalty engagement, helping increase visits, retention and repeat business.CAVA added new menu offerings, including Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon, attracting guests and driving traffic. CAVA Group, Inc. (CAVA - Free Report) is proving that growth in the restaurant industry is no longer driven solely by new store openings. The Mediterranean fast-casual chain is increasingly leveraging technology, customer engagement and product innovation to strengthen its business and drive sustainable expansion.
A key focus area is artificial intelligence and data infrastructure. During the first quarter of 2026, the company launched CavaCore, its modern data platform, and continued rolling out CAVA Current, a real-time operating system designed to improve decision-making across restaurants. Management believes these platforms will enable more personalized guest experiences, better demand forecasting, smarter labor scheduling and improved operational efficiency over time.
Loyalty is another powerful growth engine. CAVA reported encouraging results from its enhanced loyalty program, which has increased member engagement, visit frequency and customer retention. Digital campaigns, including its Flavor Bracket game and athlete partnerships, generated strong participation and helped deepen customer relationships. Management noted that loyalty members are increasingly moving up engagement tiers, supporting repeat business.
Innovation remains equally important. The return of the popular roasted white sweet potato drove guest frequency and attracted new customers, while the nationwide launch of Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon marked CAVA’s first seafood offering. Early customer response has been positive, reinforcing the company’s strategy of introducing exciting menu items without adding excessive operational complexity.
Combined with strong traffic growth, expanding brand awareness and disciplined execution, AI, loyalty and innovation appear to be key pillars supporting CAVA’s long-term growth strategy. As the company scales nationally, these initiatives could help it sustain customer demand while improving operational performance and profitability.
Can Rivals Match CAVA’s AI and Loyalty-Led Growth Strategy?Two notable competitors that are pursuing similar growth initiatives are Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG - Free Report) and Sweetgreen (SG - Free Report) .
Chipotle has been investing heavily in digital innovation, loyalty programs and operational technology to drive customer engagement. Its rewards platform has grown into a major traffic driver, while digital ordering, Chipotlanes and AI-powered tools help improve efficiency and convenience. Like CAVA, Chipotle focuses on menu innovation without overcomplicating operations, using limited-time offerings to attract customers and boost frequency.
Sweetgreen is taking an even more technology-centric approach. The company has embraced automation through its Infinite Kitchen concept and uses data-driven personalization to enhance the customer experience. Its digital-first strategy, combined with a strong loyalty ecosystem, aims to increase repeat visits and improve restaurant-level economics. Sweetgreen also emphasizes menu innovation and health-focused offerings, targeting a consumer base similar to CAVA’s.
While both competitors have made significant progress, CAVA’s combination of Mediterranean cuisine, growing loyalty engagement, AI-enabled infrastructure and disciplined innovation strategy provides a differentiated platform that could help it continue gaining market share in the fast-casual dining space.
CAVA’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of CAVA have gained 53.7% in the past six months against the industry’s decline of 2.1%.
Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, CAVA trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 6.4X, above the industry’s average of 3.33X.
P/S (F12M)
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CAVA’s 2026 and 2027 earnings per share implies a year-over-year increase of 1.9% and 30.2%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
CAVA currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
