For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Zacks Premium provides lots of different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
Zacks Premium includes access to the Zacks Style Scores as well.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.
VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
With more than 800 top-rated stocks to choose from, it can certainly feel overwhelming to pick the ones that are right for you and your investing journey.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Tenet Healthcare (THC - Free Report) Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Dallas, TX, Tenet Healthcare Corp., is an investor-owned health care services company, which owns and operates general hospitals and related health care facilities for urban and rural communities in numerous states, and has offices in California and Florida. The company has investments in other health care companies and is one of the largest investor-owned health care delivery systems in the United States.
THC is a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. THC has a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 5% for the current fiscal year.
Two analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.12 to $17.61 per share. THC boasts an average earnings surprise of +20.6%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, THC should be on investors' short list.
The Zacks Manufacturing - Electronics industry is well-positioned to benefit from solid momentum in the manufacturing sector, stable demand across the electronic services end market and increasing adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies. A surge in e-commerce activities is also likely to support the industry’s growth.
However, supply-chain issues have been weighing on the performance of some industry players. Eaton Corporation plc (ETN - Free Report) , Emerson Electric Co. (EMR - Free Report) , EnerSys (ENS - Free Report) and Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (FELE - Free Report) are a few industry participants that are expected to capitalize on the opportunities.
Industry Description The Zacks Manufacturing-Electronics industry comprises companies that manufacture electronic products like battery chargers, battery accessories, outdoor cabinet enclosures, power transmission products, electrical motion controls and motive power devices. Some industry players also provide water-treatment products, engineered flow components, process equipment and turn-key systems. These companies offer state-of-the-art customer support and after-market services to end users. The firms are increasing investments in developing innovative technologies, boosting customer and employee experience, and supply-chain modernization programs. The manufacturing electronic companies sell products and services in various end markets, including robotics, semiconductor, defense, aerospace, medical equipment and satellite communications.
4 Manufacturing Electronics Industry Trends in Focus Strength in the Manufacturing Sector: The industry has been benefiting from an increase in manufacturing activities. After witnessing a contraction in economic activities for 10 successive months till December 2025, the manufacturing sector expanded for the sixth consecutive month in June. Per the Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) report, the Manufacturing Purchasing Manager’s Index touched 53.3% in June. A figure more than 50% indicates an expansion in manufacturing activity. Also, the New Orders Index expanded, registering 56% in the same month.
Strength in the Electronics Services Market: Demand across key end markets has been stable. Electronics manufacturers are steadily benefiting from the higher adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and processes by original equipment manufacturers. The requirement for integrating advanced electronic components into machinery and electronic devices has been supporting the electronics manufacturing services market. In addition, a few industry players with wide exposure to the booming medical and life science markets are witnessing a positive momentum across their businesses due to sturdy demand for their products and solutions. A surge in the e-commerce business has also been boosting several industry participants’ prospects.
Technological Advancement Benefits: With the gradual development of business models and cutting-edge technologies, several industry players have been banking on digitizing their business operations for a while now. With digitization, businesses are gaining a detailed insight into their operational performances, demand cycles, delivery status and supply-chain issues. This, in turn, is helping them bolster their competitiveness in the market with enhanced operational productivity, product quality and lower costs.
Supply-Chain Disruptions: Supply-chain disruptions, especially related to the availability of electrical and electronic components, have been concerning for the industry participants of late. The latest ISM report’s Supplier Deliveries Index reflects slower deliveries for the seventh straight month in June. Supply-chain issues, if not controlled, might hinder the growth of diversified operation companies, going forward.
Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Bright Prospects The Zacks Manufacturing – Electronics industry, housed within the broader Zacks Industrial Products sector, currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #77. This rank places it in the top 31% of 246 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates bullish near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than two to one.
Given the strong near-term prospects of the industry, we will present a few stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio. However, it is worth taking a look at the industry’s shareholder returns and current valuation first.
Industry Underperforms Sector & Outperforms S&P 500 The Zacks Manufacturing – Electronics industry has underperformed the broader sector while outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite index over the past year. Over this period, the industry has grown 11.8% compared with the sector’s rise of 13.4% and the S&P 500 Index’s increase of 8%.
One-Year Price Performance
Industry's Current Valuation On the basis of the forward 12-month Price-to-Earnings (P/E), which is a commonly used multiple for valuing manufacturing stocks, the industry is currently trading at 23.56X compared with the S&P 500’s 21.07X. However, it is above the sector’s P/E ratio of 21.98X.
Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 25.64X, as low as 14.22X and at the median of 20.99X, as the chart below shows.
Price-to-Earnings Ratio vs SP500
Price-to-Earnings Ratio vs Sector
4 Manufacturing Electronics Stocks to Keep a Tab on Eaton: Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, Eaton is a diversified power management company and a global technology leader in electrical components and systems. ETN is benefiting from strong electrification-driven demand, reflected in rising orders and an expanding backlog. The company is also poised to gain from increased investments in capacity expansion and innovation initiatives.
Shares of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company rose 11.2% in the past year. It beat estimates in three of the last four reported quarters, while matching the mark in one, delivering an average earnings surprise of 1%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Price and Consensus: ETN
Emerson: Based in St. Louis, MO, this global engineering and technology company offers a wide range of products and services to customers in the consumer, commercial and industrial markets. Emerson is witnessing solid momentum in the Final Control segment, driven by strength in the power end markets. Robust growth across the Americas bodes well for the Sensors segment. Solid performance of the power and life sciences end markets is driving the Control Systems & Software segment.
Shares of this Zacks Rank #3 company have inched up 0.5% in the past year. The company beat estimates in two of the last four reported quarters, while matching the mark in the other two, delivering an average earnings surprise of 1.1%.
Price and Consensus: EMR
EnerSys: Based in Pennsylvania, EnerSys is engaged in the manufacturing, marketing and distribution of various industrial batteries. ENS is well-positioned to benefit from solid momentum in the Specialty segment, driven by strong momentum in the aerospace and defense end market. The expansion of U.S. communications networks, fueled by AI-driven data demand within the Energy Systems segment, also bodes well for it.
Shares of EnerSys surged 134.5% in the past year. This Zacks Rank #3 company beat estimates in each of the last four reported quarters, delivering an average earnings surprise of 4.4%.
Price and Consensus: ENS
Franklin Electric: Based in Fort Wayne, IN, Franklin Electric is engaged in providing water and fuel pumping systems to the industrial and petroleum equipment distributors, oil and utility companies and original equipment manufacturers. FELE is well-positioned to benefit from solid momentum in the Water Systems segment, driven by an increase in demand for all other surface pumping equipment and water treatment products. Also, higher demand for fuel management systems and pumping systems within the Energy Systems segment bodes well for it.
Shares of this Zacks Rank #3 company have soared 15.1% in the past year. The company beat estimates in three of the last four reported quarters and missed the mark in one, delivering an average earnings surprise of 2.6%.
Here at Zacks, we offer our members many different opportunities to take full advantage of the stock market, as well as how to invest in ways that lead to long-term success.
The Zacks Premium service, which provides daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank; full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List; Equity Research reports; and Premium stock screens like the Earnings ESP filter, makes these more manageable goals. All of the features can help you identify what stocks to buy, what to sell, and what are today's hottest industries.
It also includes the Focus List, a long-term portfolio of top stocks that have all the elements to beat the market.
Breaking Down the Zacks Focus ListIf you could get access to a curated list of stocks to kickstart your investment portfolio, wouldn't you jump at the chance to take a peek?
That's what the Zacks Focus List offers. It's a portfolio of 50 stocks that serve as a starting point for long-term investors to build their individual portfolios. The stocks included in the list are set to outperform the market over the next 12 months.
What makes the Focus List even more helpful is that each selection is accompanied by a full Zacks Analyst Report, which explains the reasoning behind every stock's selection and why we believe it's a good pick for the long-term.
The portfolio's past performance only solidifies why investors should consider it as a starting point. For 2020, the Focus List gained 13.85% on an annualized basis compared to the S&P 500's return of 9.38%. Cumulatively, the portfolio has returned 2,519.23% while the S&P returned 854.95%. Returns are for the period of February 1, 1996 to March 31, 2021.
Focus List MethodologyWhen stocks are picked for the Focus List, it reflects our enduring reliance on the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Brokerage analysts are in charge of determining a company's growth and profitability expectations, or earnings estimates. These analysts work together with company management to evaluate all factors that may affect future earnings, like interest rates, the economy, and sector and industry optimism.
What a company will earn down the road also needs to be taken into consideration, and this is why earnings estimate revisions are so important.
Stocks that receive upward earnings estimate revisions are more likely to receive even more upward changes in the future. For example, if an analyst raised their estimates last month, they're more likely to do it again this month, and other analysts are likely to do the same.
Utilizing the power of earnings estimate revisions is when the Zacks Rank joins the party. A unique, proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank uses changes to quarterly earnings expectations to help investors create a winning portfolio.
The Zacks Rank consists of four main pillars: Agreement, Magnitude, Upside, and Surprise. Each one is given a raw score, which is recalculated every night and compiled into the Rank. Then, stocks are classified into five groups, ranging from "Strong Buy" to "Strong Sell," using this data.
The Focus List is comprised of stocks hand-picked from a long list of #1 (Strong Buy) or #2 (Buy) ranked companies, meaning that each new addition boasts a bullish earnings consensus among analysts.
Because stock prices react to revisions, buying stocks with rising earnings estimates can be very profitable. Focus List stocks offer investors a great opportunity to get into companies whose future earnings estimates will be raised, potentially leading to price momentum.
Focus List Spotlight: Casey's General Stores (CASY - Free Report) Founded in 1959 and based in Ankeny, IA, Casey's General Stores, Inc. operates convenience stores primarily under the Casey's and Casey's General Store names in 19 states, mainly Iowa, Missouri and Illinois. As of Apr. 30, 2026, the company operated 2,944 stores. Approximately 71% of all stores were located in areas with populations of fewer than 20,000 people.
Since being added to the Focus List on August 20, 2019 at $171.98 per share, shares of CASY have increased 363.67% to $797.42. The stock is currently a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank.
For fiscal 2027, four analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.58 to $21.05. CASY boasts an average earnings surprise of 18.4%.
Earnings for CASY are forecasted to see growth of 9.9% for the current fiscal year as well.
Reveal Winning StocksUnlock all of our powerful research, tools and analysis, including the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research Reports, Zacks Earnings ESP Filter, Premium Screener and more, as part of Zacks Premium. You'll quickly identify which stocks to buy, hold and sell, and target today's hottest industries, to help improve the performance of your portfolio. Gain full access now >>
Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.
The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.
Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFinding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value, are what value investors like to focus on. So, the Value Style Score takes into account ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to highlight the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
With more than 800 top-rated stocks to choose from, it can certainly feel overwhelming to pick the ones that are right for you and your investing journey.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: AMN Healthcare Services (AMN - Free Report) AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. (AMN - Free Report) , operating from Dallas, TX, is a travel healthcare staffing company. Its business has evolved beyond traditional healthcare staffing and recruitment services, thereby becoming a strategic total talent solutions partner with its clients. It has expanded its portfolio to serve a diverse and growing set of healthcare talent-related needs. In addition to its healthcare professional staffing and recruitment services, AMN’s suite of healthcare workforce solutions includes MSP, vendor management systems (VMS), medical language interpretation services, predictive labor analytics, workforce optimization technology and consulting, recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), revenue cycle solutions, credentialing services and virtual care management services. AMN enables its clients to build, manage and optimize their healthcare talent to deliver improved patient outcomes and experience. It continues to enhance its platform with technology-enabled solutions, including digital workforce platforms, automation tools and AI-driven capabilities to improve speed, efficiency and clinician engagement.
AMN is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of A thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 12.87; value investors should take notice.
Three analysts revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.77 to $2.70 per share. AMN also boasts an average earnings surprise of +53.3%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, AMN should be on investors' short list.
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Halper Sadeh LLC, an investor rights law firm, is investigating the sale of Element Solutions Inc (NYSE: ESI) to Solstice Advanced Materials, Inc. for $10.00 in cash and 0.500 shares of Solstice common stock for each Element share. Upon closing of the Proposed Transaction, Element shareholders are expected to own approximately 44% of the combined company. Halper Sadeh encourages Element shareholders to click here to learn more about their rights and options or contact.
Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE), one of the world's leading providers of financial market technology and data powering global capital markets, today
Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE:CAG) will release its fourth quarter earnings report before the opening bell on Wednesday, July 15.
Analysts expect the Chicago, Illinois-based company to report quarterly earnings of 46 cents per share, down from 56 cents per share in the year-ago period. The consensus estimate for Conagra Brands’ quarterly revenue is $2.89 billion. It reported $2.78 billion last year, according to Benzinga Pro.
On April 1, Conagra Brands reported mixed third-quarter results and issued a cautious outlook.
Shares of Conagra Brands rose 0.3% to close at $14.34 on Thursday.
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the Analyst Stock Ratings page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let’s have a look at how Benzinga’s most-accurate analysts have rated the company in the recent period.
Considering buying CAG stock? Here’s what analysts think:
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Při srovnávání současných valuací s těmi z vrcholu internetové bubliny je dobré brát do úvahy, jaký byl a nyní je dlouhodobější očekávaný vývoj zisků obchodovaných firem. Když jsem na to před časem poukazoval, dodával jsem, že nyní jsou valuace o něco níž, než tehdy. Ale očekávaný růst zisků je výš. Dnes bych toto téma rád trochu více rozebral. I proto, že v rámci tohoto pohledu akcie nebyly možná nikdy levnější, než nyní.
Tzv. PEG je prostý poměr PE a očekávaného dlouhodobého růstu zisků. Konkrétní příklad: Dvě firmy mohou mít PE, tedy poměr ceny akcie k ziskům očekávaným pro následující rok, třeba na 20. Investoři jsou tedy ochotni za akcii platit dvacetinásobek toho, co by měly vydělat v následujícím roce. Pokud se pak u první čeká dlouhodobější růst zisků na 20 %, její PEG je na 1. Pokud je u druhé očekávaný dlouhodobější růst zisků na 10 %, její PEG je na 2.
Pokud tedy hledíme jen na PE, obě zmíněné firmy mají valuace stejné. PEG ale ukazuje, že relativně k dlouhodobějšímu očekávanému růstu je cena akcií druhé společnosti výrazně výš. To stále nemusí znamenat, že je drahá, ale něco to může říkat. Klíčové je přitom samozřejmě to, jak spolehlivá a kvalitní jsou ona očekávání. Zatímco současné zisky nemohou být bublinou v tradičním slova smyslu, očekávání mohou mít k bublinovatosti výrazně blíž. Euforie, či naopak skepse se projevují i v této oblasti.
Teoreticky bychom tak mohli pracovat s nějakým „super PEG“, který by ještě nějak odrážel míru důvěry v očekávané zisky. Čím nižší míra důvěry, o to vyšším koeficientem by se PEG násobil. V praxi by to ale bylo samozřejmě těžko uchopitelné. Nyní tak přejděme k pár konkrétním číslům, začneme pohledem na současné valuace na úrovně PE:
Podle dat Yardeni Research jsou nyní očekávané pětileté růsty zisků firem v indexu S&P 500 u 24 %, na vrcholu internetové bubliny to bylo asi 18 %. PE jsou přitom nyní nižší než tehdy a to ve výsledku znamená následující: PEG byl na vrcholu bubliny před rokem 2000 na hodnotě u 1,6. Nyní je na hodnotě 0,8. tedy na polovině. Tak nízko jako teď nebyl přitom PEG za posledních minimálně cca třicet let nikdy! Přitom ještě v roce 2020 byl u dvou, tedy ještě výrazně výš, než před rokem 2000.
PEG tak vypráví hodně rozdílné valuační příběhy, než prosté PE. To druhé ukazuje na našponovanost, to první na historicky extrémně levný trh. Tedy levný relativně k tomu, co se na úrovni ziskovosti čeká od obchodovaných firem v následujících pěti letech. Je to tak zaostřený pohled na to, kde by případně mohla být bublina. K tomu přidejme ještě větší zaostření pohledem na jednotlivé sektory:
Komunikace mají nyní očekávaný pětiletý růst zisků LTEG u 16 %, tedy výrazně pod číslem pro celý trh u 24 %. Zboží krátkodobé spotřeby je na 6 %, energetika na 16 %, finance u 13 % stejně, jako zdravotní péče. Průmysl je u 16 %. Tedy vše výrazně pod celým trhem. Vysvětlení není překvapivé – technologie jsou s totiž LTEG na téměř 44 %. Analytici, respektive jejich pomyslný konsenzus, tedy nyní čeká, že v následujících pěti letech poroste ziskovost tohoto sektoru bez cca 6 procentních bodů o polovinu ročně. Jinak řečeno, zisky by tady měly být do pěti let o 7,6 krát vyšší.
In brief The UK government has unveiled new rules to curb foreign money in elections, including a cap on donations from people in their first year of UK residency and stricter tests on company donors. The measures build on a March ban on crypto donations and could squeeze Nigel Farage's Reform UK, which has leaned heavily on crypto billionaires Christopher Harborne and Ben Delo. Harborne has registered to vote in the UK, while Delo has stated his intention to do so. The UK government has announced a fresh crackdown on foreign money in politics, and the new rules could squeeze the crypto billionaires who have bankrolled Nigel Farage's Reform UK.
Unveiled Monday, the measures extend a £100,000 cap on overseas donations, in force since March, so that it also covers a donor's first year of UK residency—meaning someone cannot simply relocate to Britain and immediately write a larger check.
Company donations will be judged on post-tax profits over five years rather than revenue, to keep out firms with big turnover but murky operations, and candidates must prove that any pre-campaign funding came from "legitimate sources."
The reforms build on the March package, which capped overseas donations and banned crypto donations until the UK can regulate them. At the time of the ban, Reform UK was the only major British political party to accept donations made in cryptocurrency. The bill returns to the Commons for its final stages next week.
Reform's crypto backersThe residency change could bite hardest on the crypto billionaires backing Reform UK. Thailand-based Christopher Harborne, who holds a 12% stake in stablecoin issuer Tether, has donated a total of £12 million to the party, and has since registered to vote in the UK.
Ben Delo, the Hong Kong-based co-founder of the BitMEX exchange, has donated some £4 million to Reform. Delo, who was pardoned by U.S. President Donald Trump in 2025 after pleading guilty to violations of the Bank Secrecy Act, has said he intends to move back to Britain—a return that would, the Independent noted, leave him capped at donating £100,000 for a year.
Neither Harborne nor Delo’s donations were made in the form of cryptocurrency, and Reform says no rules were broken.
Farage and “Posh George”The clampdown lands in the wake of a Sunday Times investigation alleging that Farage failed to declare years of "in-kind" help, from staff and security to housing, provided by George Cottrell, aka “Posh George,” a longtime confidant, convicted fraudster and crypto-gambler.
Cottrell, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud in the U.S. after a 2016 sting and is now seeking a pardon from President Trump, has deep crypto ties. According to the Sunday Times, he became a "key player" in Tether.bet, an offshore casino that took bets in cash or crypto and operated without a UK gambling licence. A Polymarket account linked to Cottrell by blockchain investigator ZachXBT has staked millions on geopolitical bets.
Liberal Democrat MP Josh Babarinde has written to the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner calling for an investigation into Farage's "failure to declare financial support" from Cottrell.
Farage, already under investigation over an undeclared £5 million ($6.7 million) gift from Harborne, denies the Cottrell benefits needed declaring, and Cottrell denies having expected anything in return. Decrypt has reached out to Nigel Farage for comment.
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The UK government is moving to cap overseas political donations at £100,000 per year. That’s a problem for Reform UK, whose single largest benefactor happens to be a British-Thai billionaire who lives in Thailand and holds a roughly 12% stake in Tether Limited, the company behind the world’s largest stablecoin.
Christopher Harborne has donated more than £22 million to Reform UK since the party’s inception as the Brexit Party, a figure that represents a staggering share of the party’s total funding. His most recent contributions include £9 million in August 2025 and £3 million in March 2026. Under the proposed Representation of the People Bill, those kinds of numbers from an overseas donor would become flatly illegal.
The voter registration play Harborne recently registered to vote in Hampshire, a move that arrived conspicuously close to the announcement of the new overseas donation cap. In theory, being on the UK electoral register could allow a donor to sidestep the overseas classification entirely.
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But sources suggest this maneuver is unlikely to work. Harborne has been a long-term resident of Thailand, and the new rules appear designed precisely to close the kind of loophole that a last-minute voter registration might exploit.
The timing alone has drawn attention. The Parliamentary Standards Commissioner is already investigating a separate £5 million personal gift from Harborne to Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
Crypto money meets British politics Harborne’s wealth traces back to early investments in Bitcoin and Ethereum, positions that eventually led to his significant stake in Tether.
He’s not alone in the crypto-to-politics pipeline. Ben Delo, another high-net-worth crypto investor, has also made significant donations to Reform UK.
What this means for crypto investors The UK is already implementing its own crypto regulatory framework alongside the EU’s MiCA regime. Political controversies involving crypto-derived wealth could accelerate timelines or harden positions on stablecoin reserve requirements, transparency mandates, and cross-border transaction monitoring.
The proposed £100,000 annual cap on overseas donations establishes a principle that foreign-sourced wealth faces limits in domestic political systems.
Farage has stated publicly that Reform UK would welcome additional donations from Harborne. That posture, combined with the ongoing investigation into the £5 million personal gift, ensures this story isn’t going away.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Influenced by news that Strategy sold Bitcoin to pay dividends, STRC rebounded to break above $90.
According to market data from BIT (bit.com), Strategy’s preferred stock STRC has rebounded above $90, trading at $90.125, with a 2.57% intraday gain. Earlier reports noted that Strategy sold 3,588 Bitcoin last week, generating $216 million in proceeds to pay dividends on its digital credit securities. As of July 5, the company’s Bitcoin reserves fell to 843,775 coins, alongside $2.55 billion in U.S. dollar reserves.
2 minutes ago
BlackRock Withdraws 7,546 ETH From Coinbase Prime, Worth Around $13.2 Million
According to monitoring by Onchain Lens, BlackRock just purchased and withdrew 7,546 ETH from Coinbase Prime, worth approximately $13.2 million.
2 minutes ago
Four wallets are holding 2x longs on $DEXE on @Aster_DEX, with a combined unrealized profit of ~$1.32M.
The $DEXE price keeps climbing today. Four wallets are holding 2x longs on $DEXE on @Aster_DEX, with a combined unrealized profit of ~$1.32M. The highest return has reached 104.57%.
According to monitoring by Onchain Lens, publicly listed Bitcoin mining firm Riot Platforms has deposited 500 BTC, valued at around $30.9 million, with NYDIG Custody, likely for sale.
2 minutes ago
Tom Lee: Rising ETH/BTC exchange rate indicates investors expect improved visibility of crypto use cases.
Chairman Tom Lee of BitMine, the largest Ethereum treasury, stated in a post that despite widespread market skepticism toward ETH, the rise in the ETH/BTC exchange rate shows investors are anticipating an improvement in the visibility of cryptocurrency use cases, which is a positive sign for the market.
2 minutes ago
Jiang Zhuoer: Strategy’s approved 20,000 BTC for sale will likely be fully sold.
Jiang Zhuoer, founder of BTC mining pool BTC.TOP, posted that U.S. crypto asset firm Strategy has sold 3,588 BTC for $216 million. This marks Strategy’s first large-scale BTC sell-off, carried out despite holding $2.55 billion in cash reserves — enough to cover 17.6 months of interest payments — and voluntarily selling more BTC than required to meet its interest obligations. This move signals the breakdown of Strategy’s long-held "never sell BTC" narrative. Jiang said he does not understand the reason behind Strategy’s current large-scale sell-off, noting that even if it lacks U.S. dollars, it could continue raising funds by issuing additional common stock. While this would reduce BTC holdings per share, he argues that preserving the "never sell" narrative and related beliefs is far more important than per-share BTC metrics. If Strategy fails to repurchase BTC at lower prices after the sell-off, it will also lead to a decline in per-share BTC holdings. Jiang added that Strategy’s willingness to bear this cost can only be interpreted as its preparation to conduct significant BTC swing trading. Jiang further stated that the 20,000 BTC already approved by Strategy’s board will almost certainly be sold in full. He believes that during the upcoming bull market phase, the market may witness a sell-off by an entity holding hundreds of thousands of BTC.
Not financial or tax advice. PANews content is strictly educational and informational and is not investment advice, financial advice, tax advice, legal advice, or a solicitation to buy or sell any digital asset, security, or financial product. Do your own research and consult qualified advisers.
Disclosure. PANews may publish sponsored content, partner content, advertisements, affiliate links, event promotions, and market commentary involving Web3 projects, service providers, or financial products. PANews personnel, contributors, or affiliates may hold digital assets or other interests related to covered topics. See our Terms of Service.
LOS ANGELES, July 06, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, reminds investors of a class action lawsuit against Badger Meter, Inc. (“Badger” or “the Company”) (NYSE: BMI) for violations of §§10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Investors who purchased the Company’s securities between April 18, 2024 and April 16, 2026, inclusive (the “Class Period”), are encouraged to contact the firm before August 3, 2026.
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected].
The class, in this case, has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.
According to the Complaint, the Company made false and misleading statements to the market. Badger Meter claimed its financial performance was based on “secular growth drivers,” and “solid operating execution.” The Company touted “strong” demand and a “long runway” for growth. In truth, the Company’s performance was partially based on pulling forward customer orders to recognize revenue early. Based on these facts, the Company’s public statements were false and materially misleading throughout the class period. When the market learned the truth about Badger Meter, investors suffered damages.
Join the case to recover your losses.
The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.
CONTACT:
The Schall Law Firm
Brian Schall, Esq.,
www.schallfirm.com
Office: 310-301-3335 [email protected]
NEW YORK, July 06, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Levi & Korsinsky, LLP announces that a securities class action has been filed against Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE: BMI).
YOU MAY BE AFFECTED IF YOU:
Purchased BMI stock between April 18, 2024 and April 16, 2026Lost money on your Badger Meter investment Submit your information to recover losses or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. at [email protected] or (212) 363-7500.
Badger Meter shares lost 15 million to $20 million in revenue below internal expectations. The lead plaintiff deadline is August 3, 2026.
What They Allegedly Knew Before Shareholders Did
The securities action contends that Badger Meter's senior leadership possessed knowledge throughout the Class Period that the Company's "record" financial results were not the product of durable demand. Instead, the lawsuit asserts, results were inflated by a practice of pulling forward customer orders, a dynamic that borrowed revenue from future quarters while creating the appearance of organic growth.
Critically, the filing states that when the Company finally disclosed disappointing 1Q 2026 results, a senior executive admitted that the short-cycle demand "variability" visible in 2026 "has always existed, inclusive of [the] 2023 to 2025 time frame" but was "less visible in the revenue outcomes because of the backlog condition combined with projects in flight."
That admission, the complaint suggests, raises some questions: if this variability always existed, why were investors repeatedly told that demand was "robust," that order pacing was "very normal," and that customers were not pulling forward purchases?
The Red Flags That Emerged
The action identifies a pattern of warning signs that allegedly should have prompted earlier disclosure:
Inventory levels declined meaningfully by late 2024, with an analyst specifically flagging the drop during Badger Meter's January 2025 earnings call, yet management characterized the decline as an "optimum level" rather than a signal of demand depletionWhen directly asked in April 2025 whether customers had pulled forward orders, management stated that 75% of revenue went "direct to end users" who "really, in many ways, cannot pull forward" and that the remaining channel showed no "large pull forward orders"By July 2025, the Company warned of sequential sales declines but attributed them to AMI project timing while insisting "our funnel remains as robust as ever" and that demand softness was "not a concern"A 6% sequential decline in utility water sales reported in January 2026 was blamed solely on "previously communicated project pacing effects," with no mention of weakening short-cycle ordering Inside Knowledge vs. Public Statements
The complaint charges that Badger Meter's leadership had direct visibility into order books, backlog composition, and short-cycle purchasing patterns. These are core operational metrics that a water metering company's executives monitor continuously. The lawsuit maintains that the gap between what was known internally and what was communicated publicly was not a matter of forecasting uncertainty but of selective disclosure.
"The timeline raises important questions about when certain risks were known internally versus when they were disclosed to the investing public." -- Joseph E. Levi, Esq.
Act now to protect your rights or call (212) 363-7500.
About the Firm
ABOUT THE FIRM -- Levi & Korsinsky represents investors in securities class actions nationwide, with a track record of recovering hundreds of millions for shareholders harmed by alleged corporate concealment. Ranked among ISS Top 50 for seven consecutive years. Lead plaintiff applications must be submitted by August 3, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions About the BMI Lawsuit
Q: When did Badger Meter allegedly mislead investors? A: The class period runs from April 18, 2024 to April 16, 2026. The alleged concealment and misrepresentations were revealed through three corrective disclosures on July 22, 2025, January 28, 2026, and April 17, 2026, each causing significant stock price declines.
Q: What specific misstatements does the BMI lawsuit allege? A: The complaint alleges Badger Meter made materially false or misleading statements regarding the drivers of its "record" financial results, characterizing them as reflecting "ongoing favorable industry fundamentals" and "robust demand" while concealing that results were inflated by pulled-forward customer orders that depleted future revenue.
Q: What do BMI investors need to do right now? A: Gather brokerage records including purchase dates, share quantities, and prices paid. Contact Levi & Korsinsky for a free, no-obligation evaluation at [email protected] or (212) 363-7500. No immediate action is required to remain eligible as a class member.
Q: What if I already sold my BMI shares -- can I still recover losses? A: Yes. Eligibility is based on when you purchased, not whether you still hold them. Investors who bought during the class period and sold at a loss may still participate.
Q: Do I need to go to court or give testimony? A: No. The overwhelming majority of class members never appear in court or give depositions. You submit a claim form to receive your portion of recovery.
Q: What does it cost me to participate? A: Nothing. Securities class actions are handled on a pure contingency basis. No upfront fees, no retainer, no out-of-pocket costs.
Q: What if I missed the lead plaintiff deadline? A: The deadline applies only to investors seeking lead plaintiff appointment. Class members who miss it can still participate in any settlement or recovery.
Live Coverage Updates appear automatically as they are published.
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Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT | MSFT Price Prediction) is sliding 1.6% after revealing it will cut 4,800 jobs, roughly 2.1% of its global workforce, with the layoffs concentrated in its Commercial and Xbox divisions, according to reports. The company framed the move as a restructuring aimed at tightening operations and setting Xbox up for long-term growth, and was quick to push back on the obvious question, stating the layoffs are not a result of AI displacing workers.
3 hours ago
Live
JPMorgan sees an opportunity in the chip stock dip, advising investors to treat the sector’s recent stumble as a buying opportunity. The bank’s thesis rests on two pillars: the AI-driven semiconductor cycle has not lost its footing, and the prospect of meaningful new supply hitting the market before 2028 remains remote, a combination that leaves the demand picture structurally supported well into the next few years.
This article will be updated throughout the day, so check back often for more daily updates.
Markets are starting the week with a decidedly bullish posture, picking up where a strong week left off and carrying fresh record highs into today’s session. Nasdaq 100 futures are leading the charge, advancing 1.1%, while S&P 500 futures are adding 0.4% and Dow futures are holding just below the flatline as sentiment across the tech space shifts noticeably to the upside.
Tech stocks are wasting no time making their presence felt in early trade. The State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF is climbing more than 1%, with Western Digital (NASDAQ:WDC) jumping 3% and Teradyne (NASDAQ:TER) surging 4% leading the way. Marvell Technology (NASDAQ:MRVL) and Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) are also posting gains of more than 3% and 2% respectively, signaling a tech sector that is reclaiming its footing after last week’s bout of volatility and heading into earnings season with renewed conviction.
Here’s a look at where things stand as of pre-market trading:
Dow Jones Industrial Average: 53,087 Down 0.18%
Nasdaq Composite: 29,854 Up 1.01%
S&P 500: 7,554 Up 0.35%
Market Movers Memory chip stocks are finding their footing in premarket trade after a chorus of analyst notes reframed last week’s selling as an opportunity. UBS projects the DRAM market will remain in short supply through at least 2028, and both Citi and Bank of America revised their outlooks higher on the strength of AI demand, collectively pushing back against any narrative that the sector’s best days are behind it.
Broadcom (NASDAQ:AVGO) and Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) deepened their decades-long technology alliance, extending their collaboration through 2031 under new multi-year agreements covering Broadcom’s development and supply of custom ASIC silicon across several generations of Apple products.
Goldman Sachs raised its price target on Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:AMD) to $640 from $450, holding its Buy rating as the chipmaker’s AI positioning continues to draw institutional conviction.
Morgan Stanley is making the case that the AI trade is quietly reshuffling its leadership. The firm sees chips losing their grip as the sector’s dominant force, with investors gravitating toward names that sat out much of the rally. Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), and Meta (NASDAQ:META) are now Morgan Stanley’s preferred AI plays, with the firm arguing their proven business models give them arsenal that pure-play semiconductor names struggle to match.
SummaryENLT develops, finances, owns, and operates utility-scale solar, wind, and battery storage assets, creating long-term contracted cash flows and recurring value.The company funds expansion through non-recourse project financing, tax-equity partnerships, mezzanine financing, and internal cash generation, supporting portfolio growth while limiting shareholder dilution.An expanding development pipeline, a growing battery storage portfolio, corporate PPAs, and AI-driven electricity demand are expected to support future earnings and cash flow growth.Although ENLT trades at a premium valuation, its business quality, disciplined execution, and long-term earnings potential support accumulating the stock during market pullbacks. Alex_Wang1/iStock via Getty Images
Investment Thesis Enlight Renewable Energy (NASDAQ: ENLT) is an integrated renewable energy company. It operates in utility-scale solar, wind, and battery energy storage system assets (BESS). Unlike the traditional renewable energy companies, the company develops, finances, owns, and operates. This integrated model supports long-term value creation through
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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. 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.
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.
Financial technology, or fintech, is rapidly transforming the global financial services industry by making financial solutions faster, more accessible and more customer-centric. By integrating finance with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, Big Data and cloud computing, fintech is challenging traditional operating models across banking, payments, lending, wealth management and investing.
One of fintech’s most important impacts is its ability to broaden financial inclusion. Digital wallets, mobile banking apps and peer-to-peer lending platforms have made it easier for unbanked and underbanked populations to access basic financial services. Fintech is also reshaping cross-border payments by reducing the time, cost and complexity traditionally associated with international money transfers.
The sector is also redefining how consumers and businesses make payments, borrow money and manage investments. Contactless payments, buy now, pay later options and app-based lending platforms are improving convenience and speed while enabling businesses to offer more flexible and personalized financial experiences. In capital markets, robo-advisors and algorithm-based trading platforms are lowering investment costs and making wealth-building tools available to a wider audience.
Beyond convenience, fintech is strengthening transparency, cybersecurity and risk management across the financial ecosystem. Blockchain enables secure and traceable transactions, while AI-powered systems improve fraud detection, credit evaluation and regulatory compliance. As fintech continues to mature, it is encouraging traditional financial institutions to modernize their systems, partner with technology providers and adapt to changing customer expectations. This shift is creating a more agile, inclusive and innovation-led global financial ecosystem. Hence, stocks like Robinhood Markets, Inc. (HOOD - Free Report) , SoFi Technologies, Inc. (SOFI - Free Report) and Upstart Holdings, Inc. (UPST - Free Report) are grabbing investor attention.
Our Fintech Screen will help you identify the right stocks now to ride on the wave of this trillion-dollar revolution. Leveraging advanced tools, our thematic screens identify companies shaping the future, making it easier to capitalize on emerging trends.
Ready to uncover more transformative thematic investment ideas? Explore 37 cutting-edge investment themes with Zacks Thematic Screens and discover your next big opportunity.
Robinhood is using technology as the core lever to move beyond a commission-free trading app and build a broader financial services ecosystem. Its mobile-first platform continues to lower friction for retail investors by combining equities, options, crypto, retirement and cash-management features in one interface. This helps deepen customer engagement while creating more cross-selling opportunities across asset classes and subscription products.
A major part of Robinhood’s expansion strategy is automation and AI. The company has launched AI-driven tools such as Robinhood Cortex, personalized portfolio digests and agent-based trading capabilities, aimed at helping users interpret market moves, manage portfolios and execute trades more efficiently. These tools can increase platform stickiness, especially among younger investors who prefer digital guidance over traditional advisory channels.
HOOD is also using blockchain technology to widen its addressable market. Robinhood Chain and tokenized stock initiatives are designed to support 24/7 trading, international access and decentralized finance products, helping the company expand beyond the U.S. brokerage market into global crypto and tokenized-asset services.
The company is leveraging technology to enter new categories such as prediction markets, private market access, digital advisory, credit cards and international brokerage services. Together, these initiatives support Robinhood’s ambition to become a financial “super app,” with technology enabling scale, lower costs, faster product launches and broader global reach.
Though the Zacks Consensus Estimate for HOOD’s 2026 earnings implies a year-over-year decline of 11.7%, the trend is expected to reverse next year, with earnings projected to jump 37.2%. 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.
SoFi is using technology to expand from a digital lender into a broader financial services platform. Its strategy centers on a mobile-first “financial everything app” that brings borrowing, saving, spending, investing, insurance and financial planning into one ecosystem. This allows it to attract members through one product and then cross-sell additional services, increasing engagement and lifetime customer value.
A key growth driver is SoFi’s technology platform, which includes Galileo and Technisys. Galileo supports payment processing, card issuing and digital banking capabilities, while Technisys provides cloud-native core banking infrastructure. Together, these platforms allow SoFi to serve other fintechs, banks and enterprises, creating a business-to-business revenue stream beyond its consumer-facing app. The company describes itself as a member-centric “everything app” and reported strong product growth, showing how technology is supporting broader adoption across its ecosystem.
SoFi is also using AI to strengthen customer engagement. Recent initiatives such as SoFi Coach and Composer by SoFi are designed to provide AI-powered financial guidance and investing support, helping users manage money, build strategies and make decisions with less friction.
In lending, SoFi is expanding through its Loan Platform Business, using technology and partnerships to distribute personal loans more efficiently. The company announced new agreements totaling more than $3.6 billion in expected personal loan funding, supporting a more capital-light growth model. Overall, technology is enabling SoFi to scale faster, diversify revenues and compete as a full-service digital financial platform.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SoFi’s 2026 and 2027 earnings indicates year-over-year growth of 51.3% and 34.1%, respectively. The stock carries a Zacks Rank #3.
Upstart is using technology to expand its business by positioning itself as a tech-driven lending marketplace rather than a traditional consumer lender. Its core platform uses AI and machine-learning models to assess borrower risk beyond conventional credit scores, helping banks and credit unions approve more borrowers while managing default risk. This gives Upstart a scalable role as a loan-origination and underwriting partner for financial institutions, rather than requiring it to hold all loans on its balance sheet.
Technology is also helping Upstart automate the lending process. By reducing manual underwriting and enabling faster approvals, the company can improve borrower experience and lower processing costs for lending partners. This is particularly important as it works to attract more banks, credit unions and institutional investors to its marketplace. The company describes itself as a leading AI lending marketplace and continues to publish origination data, showing its emphasis on technology-led loan volume growth.
UPST is also expanding beyond personal loans into auto lending, home lending and home-equity products. This product diversification allows the company to apply its AI models to larger credit markets and reduce dependence on one loan category. Overall, Upstart’s technology strategy supports business expansion by improving credit decisioning, automating loan origination, broadening product reach and strengthening its partner-based marketplace model.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UPST’s 2026 and 2027 earnings implies year-over-year increases of 30.5% and 44.9%, respectively. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3.
For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Zacks Premium provides lots of different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) Alameda, CA-based Exelixis, Inc. is an oncology-focused biotechnology company that primarily focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of new drugs for the treatment of difficult-to-treat cancers. The company is leveraging its investments, expertise and strategic partnerships to target an expanding range of tumor types and indications with its clinically differentiated pipeline of small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other biotherapeutics.
EXEL is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of B thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 15.84; value investors should take notice.
Five analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.16 to $3.53 per share. EXEL boasts an average earnings surprise of +17%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, EXEL should be on investors' short list.
MasTec, Inc. MTZ is currently trading at a premium compared with the Zacks Building Products - Heavy Construction industry, the broader Zacks Construction sector and the S&P 500 Index, with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 35.62. The industry's average currently is 26.35, with the sector's valuation at 21.49 and the S&P 500 Index at 21.07.
According to monitoring by Onchain Lens, publicly listed Bitcoin mining firm Riot Platforms has deposited 500 BTC, valued at around $30.9 million, with NYDIG Custody, likely for sale.
2 minutes ago
Tom Lee: Rising ETH/BTC exchange rate indicates investors expect improved visibility of crypto use cases.
Chairman Tom Lee of BitMine, the largest Ethereum treasury, stated in a post that despite widespread market skepticism toward ETH, the rise in the ETH/BTC exchange rate shows investors are anticipating an improvement in the visibility of cryptocurrency use cases, which is a positive sign for the market.
2 minutes ago
Jiang Zhuoer: Strategy’s approved 20,000 BTC for sale will likely be fully sold.
Jiang Zhuoer, founder of BTC mining pool BTC.TOP, posted that U.S. crypto asset firm Strategy has sold 3,588 BTC for $216 million. This marks Strategy’s first large-scale BTC sell-off, carried out despite holding $2.55 billion in cash reserves — enough to cover 17.6 months of interest payments — and voluntarily selling more BTC than required to meet its interest obligations. This move signals the breakdown of Strategy’s long-held "never sell BTC" narrative. Jiang said he does not understand the reason behind Strategy’s current large-scale sell-off, noting that even if it lacks U.S. dollars, it could continue raising funds by issuing additional common stock. While this would reduce BTC holdings per share, he argues that preserving the "never sell" narrative and related beliefs is far more important than per-share BTC metrics. If Strategy fails to repurchase BTC at lower prices after the sell-off, it will also lead to a decline in per-share BTC holdings. Jiang added that Strategy’s willingness to bear this cost can only be interpreted as its preparation to conduct significant BTC swing trading. Jiang further stated that the 20,000 BTC already approved by Strategy’s board will almost certainly be sold in full. He believes that during the upcoming bull market phase, the market may witness a sell-off by an entity holding hundreds of thousands of BTC.
2 minutes ago
American Bitcoin adds 500 BTC to its holdings, bringing its total BTC holdings to 8,000.
Bitcoin mining firm American Bitcoin, backed by the Trump family, has increased its holdings by 500 BTC, bringing its total position to 8,000 BTC.
2 minutes ago
Dell’s stock surges more than 8% after Trump’s public crypto endorsement
According to market data from BIT (bit.com), Dell’s stock has risen more than 8%, currently trading at $427.26. In an earlier report, US President Donald Trump publicly said, "Go buy a Dell computer," once again endorsing Dell. Regarding Dell’s previous donation to the "Trump account," Trump stated, "We will find a way to get that money back."
2 minutes ago
Trump responds to whether the "Trump account" includes Bitcoin: "It might happen."
According to Reuters, when asked whether the "Trump account" might hold Bitcoin, Trump stated: "It could happen."
The world’s largest crypto exchange Binance has failed to secure an EU-wide MiCA license in France, after facing a roadblock in Greece. As a result, services including crypto trading are halted and users can only withdraw their crypto assets. The crypto exchange has also halted services across several European Union countries.
Binance Fails to Get MiCA License in France, Halts Crypto Trading Services Binance has stopped offering crypto trading services in France after failing to obtain a MiCA license, BFM Business reported. French users can now only withdraw their crypto assets.
The leading crypto exchange previously served about 2 million users in France, offering services including spot, futures, margin, and custody. The exchange added that user funds remain safe.
As CoinGape reported earlier, Binance was in discussions with France’s finance regulator AMF to secure a MiCA license after ECB President Christine Lagarde expressed opposition to a Greek application just weeks before the July 1 deadline.
Binance co-CEO Richard Teng also claimed earlier that the exchange remains dedicated to securing a MiCA license and remains ready to operate under a “fair, predictable, and genuinely harmonized European framework.”
However, Binance withdrew its MiCA license application in Greece. Also, halting crypto services in EU countries, including France, Poland, Italy, and Spain, and recommending users to withdraw their crypto assets.
Meanwhile, crypto firms are turning to Dubai, as nearly 244 out of 3000 crypto firms have secured the MiCA licenses in the EU bloc.
Massive Withdrawals from the Crypto Exchange Binance customers in France chose to withdraw their crypto assets from the exchange and not wait for it to secure a license. According to the report, some have faced withdrawal issues during this period.
On-chain data showed almost $1.6 billion in net outflows from Binance over the past month. Notably, the exchange recorded $1.23 billion in withdrawals in a week amid self-custody, with ETH withdrawal transactions hitting a 3-year high of 166,000. The crypto exchange still manages around $114 billion in crypto assets.
Ethereum Withdrawing Transactions on Binance. Source: CryptoQuant Meanwhile, Binance has officially entered the Philippines crypto market. “The Philippines has always been one of the most vibrant crypto communities in the world. Let’s go!” said Binance co-CEO Richard Teng.
BNB price has jumped more than 6% to $583 over the past week amid CoinGape’s another accurate prediction on crypto market recovery. Futures open interest also climbed almost 3% to $876 million over the past 24 hours.
If you’re looking to do in-depth research before deciding to invest in crypto, check out our recommendations for the best crypto tools for research and analysis.
According to monitoring by Onchain Lens, publicly listed Bitcoin mining firm Riot Platforms has deposited 500 BTC, valued at around $30.9 million, with NYDIG Custody, likely for sale.
2 minutes ago
Tom Lee: Rising ETH/BTC exchange rate indicates investors expect improved visibility of crypto use cases.
Chairman Tom Lee of BitMine, the largest Ethereum treasury, stated in a post that despite widespread market skepticism toward ETH, the rise in the ETH/BTC exchange rate shows investors are anticipating an improvement in the visibility of cryptocurrency use cases, which is a positive sign for the market.
2 minutes ago
Jiang Zhuoer: Strategy’s approved 20,000 BTC for sale will likely be fully sold.
Jiang Zhuoer, founder of BTC mining pool BTC.TOP, posted that U.S. crypto asset firm Strategy has sold 3,588 BTC for $216 million. This marks Strategy’s first large-scale BTC sell-off, carried out despite holding $2.55 billion in cash reserves — enough to cover 17.6 months of interest payments — and voluntarily selling more BTC than required to meet its interest obligations. This move signals the breakdown of Strategy’s long-held "never sell BTC" narrative. Jiang said he does not understand the reason behind Strategy’s current large-scale sell-off, noting that even if it lacks U.S. dollars, it could continue raising funds by issuing additional common stock. While this would reduce BTC holdings per share, he argues that preserving the "never sell" narrative and related beliefs is far more important than per-share BTC metrics. If Strategy fails to repurchase BTC at lower prices after the sell-off, it will also lead to a decline in per-share BTC holdings. Jiang added that Strategy’s willingness to bear this cost can only be interpreted as its preparation to conduct significant BTC swing trading. Jiang further stated that the 20,000 BTC already approved by Strategy’s board will almost certainly be sold in full. He believes that during the upcoming bull market phase, the market may witness a sell-off by an entity holding hundreds of thousands of BTC.
2 minutes ago
American Bitcoin adds 500 BTC to its holdings, bringing its total BTC holdings to 8,000.
Bitcoin mining firm American Bitcoin, backed by the Trump family, has increased its holdings by 500 BTC, bringing its total position to 8,000 BTC.
2 minutes ago
Dell’s stock surges more than 8% after Trump’s public crypto endorsement
According to market data from BIT (bit.com), Dell’s stock has risen more than 8%, currently trading at $427.26. In an earlier report, US President Donald Trump publicly said, "Go buy a Dell computer," once again endorsing Dell. Regarding Dell’s previous donation to the "Trump account," Trump stated, "We will find a way to get that money back."
2 minutes ago
Trump responds to whether the "Trump account" includes Bitcoin: "It might happen."
According to Reuters, when asked whether the "Trump account" might hold Bitcoin, Trump stated: "It could happen."
Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.
The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
#1 (Strong Buy) stocks have produced an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988, which is more than double the S&P 500's performance over the same time frame. However, the Zacks Rank examines a ton of stocks, and there can be more than 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, and another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Kennametal (KMT - Free Report) Based in Latrobe, PA, Kennametal Inc. is a manufacturer, marketer and distributor of high-speed metal cutting tools, tooling systems and wear-resistant parts. Its products are marketed through a number of channels to the end users, comprising manufacturers of machine tools, transportation vehicles and various components, airframe, aerospace components, machinery (light and heavy), components (energy-related), and others. Also, the company’s products are used by manufacturers and suppliers in the oil and gas exploration, road construction, and other industries.
KMT is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Momentum investors should take note of this Industrial Products stock. KMT has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 2.6% over the past four weeks.
For fiscal 2026, two analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.80 to $3.23 per share. KMT boasts an average earnings surprise of +18.6%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, KMT should be on investors' short list.
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
The research service features daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, all of which will help you become a smarter, more confident investor.
Zacks Premium includes access to the Zacks Style Scores as well.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you like to use all three kinds of investing, then the VGM Score is for you. It's a combination of all Style Scores, and is an important indicator to use with the Zacks Rank. The VGM Score rates each stock on their shared weighted styles, narrowing down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Quest Diagnostics (DGX - Free Report) Headquartered in Secaucus, New Jersey, Quest Diagnostics Inc. provides diagnostic information services to a broad range of customers within its primary customer channels of physicians, hospitals, patients, and consumers. The company provides services to Independent Delivery Networks (IDN) throughout the United States, through its Professional Lab Services (PLS) offerings, which allow them to build and execute their laboratory strategy, improve quality, reduce healthcare costs, and focus on core competencies. The company is a key provider of reference testing for approximately half of the hospitals in the United States.
DGX is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Momentum investors should take note of this Medical stock. DGX has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 7.7% over the past four weeks.
Four analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.04 to $10.72 per share. DGX boasts an average earnings surprise of +3.5%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, DGX should be on investors' short list.
SharkNinja, Inc. (NYSE: SN), a global product design and technology company, today announced that Shark Beauty has launched FlexStyle IonCurl, the newest addit
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
The research service features daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, all of which will help you become a smarter, more confident investor.
Zacks Premium includes access to the Zacks Style Scores as well.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.
For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: HealthEquity (HQY - Free Report) Draper, UT-headquartered HealthEquity provides integrated solutions for healthcare account management, health reimbursement arrangement and flexible spending accounts for health plans, insurance companies and third-party administrators in the United States.
HQY is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. HQY has a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 17.8% for the current fiscal year.
Six analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2027. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.10 to $4.71 per share. HQY boasts an average earnings surprise of +12%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, HQY should be on investors' short list.
SkyWest (SKYW - Free Report) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.
Over the past month, shares of this regional airline have returned +14.7%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -0.9% change. During this period, the Zacks Transportation - Airline industry, which SkyWest falls in, has gained 19.6%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
Revisions to Earnings EstimatesHere at Zacks, we prioritize appraising the change in the projection of a company's future earnings over anything else. That's because we believe the present value of its future stream of earnings is what determines the fair value for its stock.
We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
For the current quarter, SkyWest is expected to post earnings of $2.85 per share, indicating a change of -2.1% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $10.95 points to a change of +5.8% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has remained unchanged.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $11.78 indicates a change of +7.6% from what SkyWest is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has remained unchanged.
Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, SkyWest is rated Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Revenue Growth ForecastEven though a company's earnings growth is arguably the best indicator of its financial health, nothing much happens if it cannot raise its revenues. It's almost impossible for a company to grow its earnings without growing its revenue for long periods. Therefore, knowing a company's potential revenue growth is crucial.
In the case of SkyWest, the consensus sales estimate of $1.11 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +7.6%. The $4.36 billion and $4.47 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +7.5% and +2.4%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistorySkyWest reported revenues of $1.01 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +6.8%. EPS of $2.21 for the same period compares with $2.42 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $978.13 million, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +3.58%. The EPS surprise was +2.79%.
Over the last four quarters, SkyWest surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time over this period.
ValuationWithout considering a stock's valuation, no investment decision can be efficient. In predicting a stock's future price performance, it's crucial to determine whether its current price correctly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
As part of the Zacks Style Scores system, the Zacks Value Style Score (which evaluates both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics) organizes stocks into five groups ranging from A to F (A is better than B; B is better than C; and so on), making it helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
SkyWest is graded A on this front, indicating that it is trading at a discount to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.
Bottom LineThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about SkyWest. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Momentum investing is essentially the opposite of the tried-and-tested Wall Street adage -- "buy low and sell high." Investors following this investing style typically avoid betting on cheap stocks and waiting long for them to recover. They believe instead that one could make far more money in lesser time by "buying high and selling higher."
Who doesn't like betting on fast-moving trending stocks? But determining the right entry point isn't easy. Often, these stocks lose momentum once their valuation moves ahead of their future growth potential. In such a situation, investors find themselves loaded up on expensive shares with limited to no upside or even a downside. So, going all-in on momentum could be risky at times.
A safer approach could be investing in bargain stocks with recent price momentum. While the Zacks Momentum Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system) helps identify great momentum stocks by paying close attention to trends in a stock's price or earnings, our 'Fast-Paced Momentum at a Bargain' screen comes handy in spotting fast-moving stocks that are still attractively priced.
There are several stocks that currently pass through the screen and Helen of Troy (HELE - Free Report) is one of them. Here are the key reasons why this stock is a great candidate.
Investors' growing interest in a stock is reflected in its recent price increase. A price change of 15.6% over the past four weeks positions the stock of this personal and household products company well in this regard.
While any stock can see a spike in price for a short period, it takes a real momentum player to deliver positive returns for a longer time frame. HELE meets this criterion too, as the stock gained 68.2% over the past 12 weeks.
Moreover, the momentum for HELE is fast paced, as the stock currently has a beta of 1.31. This indicates that the stock moves 31% higher than the market in either direction.
Given this price performance, it is no surprise that HELE has a Momentum Score of B, which indicates that this is the right time to enter the stock to take advantage of the momentum with the highest probability of success.
In addition to a favorable Momentum Score, an upward trend in earnings estimate revisions has helped HELE earn a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Our research shows that the momentum-effect is quite strong among Zacks Rank #1 and #2 stocks. That's because as covering analysts raise their earnings estimates for a stock, more and more investors take an interest in it, helping its price race to keep up. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>>
Most importantly, despite possessing fast-paced momentum features, HELE is trading at a reasonable valuation. In terms of Price-to-Sales ratio, which is considered as one of the best valuation metrics, the stock looks quite cheap now. HELE is currently trading at 0.37 times its sales. In other words, investors need to pay only 37 cents for each dollar of sales.
So, HELE appears to have plenty of room to run, and that too at a fast pace.
In addition to HELE, there are several other stocks that currently pass through our 'Fast-Paced Momentum at a Bargain' screen. You may consider investing in them and start looking for the newest stocks that fit these criteria.
This is not the only screen that could help you find your next winning stock pick. Based on your personal investing style, you may choose from over 45 Zacks Premium Screens that are strategically created to beat the market.
However, keep in mind that the key to a successful stock-picking strategy is to ensure that it produced profitable results in the past. You could easily do that with the help of the Zacks Research Wizard. In addition to allowing you to backtest the effectiveness of your strategy, the program comes loaded with some of our most successful stock-picking strategies.
Click here to sign up for a free trial to the Research Wizard today.
LOS ANGELES, July 06, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, reminds investors of a class action lawsuit against Helen of Troy Limited (“Helen of Troy” or “the Company”) (NASDAQ: HELE) for violations of §§10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Investors who purchased the Company’s securities between April 24, 2024 and October 8, 2025, inclusive (the “Class Period”), are encouraged to contact the firm before August 3, 2026.
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected].
The class, in this case, has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.
According to the Complaint, the Company made false and misleading statements to the market. Helen of Troy misled investors about the success of its Project Pegasus restructuring program. The Company touted the “fuel” produced by Project Pegasus, despite what it called “implementation hiccups.” The Company continued to tout its restructuring effort, telling shareholders, "despite the delayed savings related to our Tennessee distribution center, Project Pegasus continues to move forward. We have made good progress on the cost of goods sold work streams, implementing multiple projects that reduce costs and simplify our supplier base." Based on these facts, the Company’s public statements were false and materially misleading throughout the class period. When the market learned the truth about Helen of Troy, investors suffered damages.
Join the case to recover your losses.
The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.
CONTACT:
The Schall Law Firm
Brian Schall, Esq.,
www.schallfirm.com
Office: 310-301-3335 [email protected]
NEW YORK, July 06, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Levi & Korsinsky, LLP notifies investors that Brian Grass, Helen of Troy Limited's (NASDAQ: HELE) longtime Chief Financial Officer and former Interim CEO, is named as an individual defendant in a securities class action filed on behalf of shareholders who purchased securities between April 24, 2024, and October 8, 2025. Find out if you qualify to recover losses from the HELE securities action. You may also contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. at [email protected] or (212) 363-7500.
Helen of Troy shares suffered multiple sharp declines during the Class Period, including a 27.7% single-day drop (7.04 per share), as the alleged truth about the Company's flagship restructuring program emerged. The lead plaintiff deadline is August 3, 2026.
Brian Grass's Dual Role During the Class Period
The complaint identifies Grass as occupying a uniquely central position at Helen of Troy. As the Company's longtime CFO, Grass oversaw financial reporting and projections throughout the Class Period. When CEO Noel Geoffroy suddenly departed on May 2, 2025, after only 14 months in the role, Grass assumed the additional title of Interim CEO, a position he held through September 1, 2025. This dual capacity placed Grass at the intersection of both operational leadership and financial disclosure during a period when, the action contends, investors were receiving materially misleading information about the Company's restructuring progress.
What Brian Grass Allegedly Oversaw
As pleaded in the complaint, Grass made specific assurances to investors on multiple occasions:
On July 9, 2024, Grass stated the Company still expected to "expand gross margin year-over-year due to Project Pegasus" even as the Company simultaneously slashed its full-year revenue outlook by over 20%On October 9, 2024, Grass reiterated gross margin expansion expectations and claimed the Tennessee distribution facility remediation was "substantially completed"On January 8, 2025, Grass confirmed Project Pegasus savings targets remained "on track" and that restructuring charges would be "largely completed in fiscal '25"By July 10, 2025, now serving as Interim CEO, Grass conceded the Company had become "too matrixed, too slow" and "too complicated," acknowledging a loss of organizational focus he stated he personally owned "as a leader" The lawsuit asserts that Grass possessed the power and authority to control the contents of Helen of Troy's SEC reports, press releases, and analyst presentations, and that he was provided with copies of these materials prior to or shortly after their issuance.
Grass's Certifications and Liability
As CFO, Grass signed SEC filings containing financial statements and forward-looking projections about Project Pegasus savings. The complaint alleges that these certifications carried personal accountability under the federal securities laws. The action further contends that Grass, by virtue of his high-level positions and direct involvement in day-to-day operations, acted as a controlling person within the meaning of Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
"Individual officers who sign SEC certifications bear personal responsibility for the accuracy of corporate disclosures. When an executive occupies both the CFO and Interim CEO roles during a period of alleged misrepresentation, questions of personal accountability become particularly acute." -- Joseph E. Levi, Esq.
Speak with an attorney about whether Brian Grass's alleged role affected your HELE investment or call (212) 363-7500.
LEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: August 3, 2026
Submit your information to join the HELE recovery effort or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. at [email protected] or (212) 363-7500.
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP, Top 50 securities litigation firm (ISS, seven consecutive years). Over 70 professionals. Hundreds of millions recovered for investors.
Frequently Asked Questions About the HELE Lawsuit
Q: Who are the defendants named in the HELE lawsuit? A: The complaint names Helen of Troy Limited and individual defendants including senior executives who signed SEC filings, made public statements, or certified financial disclosures under Sarbanes-Oxley. Brian Grass is named both in his capacity as CFO and as former Interim CEO.
Q: What specific misstatements does the HELE lawsuit allege? A: The complaint alleges Helen of Troy made materially false or misleading statements regarding the progress and success of Project Pegasus, a global restructuring program, and the operational health of its Tennessee distribution center during the Class Period. When the true state was revealed, the stock price declined sharply on multiple occasions.
Q: What do HELE investors need to do right now? A: Gather brokerage records including purchase dates, share quantities, and prices paid. Contact Levi & Korsinsky for a free, no-obligation evaluation at [email protected] or (212) 363-7500. No immediate action is required to remain eligible as a class member.
Q: What if I already sold my HELE shares -- can I still recover losses? A: Yes. Eligibility is based on when you purchased, not whether you still hold them. Investors who bought during the class period and sold at a loss may still participate.
Q: Do I need to go to court or give testimony? A: No. The overwhelming majority of class members never appear in court or give depositions. You submit a claim form to receive your portion of recovery.
Q: What does it cost me to participate? A: Nothing. Securities class actions are handled on a pure contingency basis. No upfront fees, no retainer, no out-of-pocket costs.
Key Takeaways URBN grew revenues 11.4% to $1.48 billion, supported by retail, wholesale and subscription gains.URBN's Wholesale segment revenues increased 24.8% as demand from specialty retail partners improved.URBN's subscription revenues rose 34.5%, driven by growth in average active subscribers. Urban Outfitters Inc. (URBN - Free Report) continues to benefit from the strength of its diversified operating model, with its Retail, Wholesale and Subscription businesses each contributing meaningfully to growth. By generating revenues through stores, digital channels, wholesale partnerships and its rapidly expanding Nuuly rental platform, the company has built a balanced business that is helping drive consistent performance across varying consumer spending environments.
The strategy delivered another strong quarter. In the first quarter of fiscal 2027, URBN reported record revenues of $1.48 billion, an increase of 11.4% from the prior-year period, marking its seventh consecutive quarter of record sales and earnings. Retail remained the company's largest business, with segment sales rising 8% to $1.22 billion. Comparable retail sales increased 5.6%, supported by high-single-digit growth in digital sales and mid-single-digit growth in store sales, highlighting healthy customer engagement across channels.
Wholesale provided a significant boost to overall performance. Segment revenues climbed 24.8% to $93.2 million, driven primarily by strong demand for FP Group products and increased sales to specialty retail customers. Management noted that wholesale growth was broad-based, extending across both specialty and department store accounts, underscoring the segment's growing contribution to URBN's revenue diversification strategy.
Meanwhile, Nuuly remained one of the company's fastest-growing businesses. Subscription revenues increased 34.5% to $167.3 million, fueled by a 33.3% increase in average active subscribers. Management highlighted that Nuuly added more than 110,000 average active subscribers compared with the prior-year quarter and is approaching the milestone of 500,000 active subscribers. The business generated an operating profit during the quarter, demonstrating that subscriber growth is being accompanied by improving profitability as the platform scales.
Management expects high-single-digit total sales growth in the second quarter. The outlook is supported by anticipated high-single-digit comparable sales growth at FP Group and Urban Outfitters, along with low- to mid-single-digit comparable sales growth at Anthropologie. With digital demand remaining strong, wholesale momentum continuing and Nuuly steadily expanding its subscriber base, URBN appears well-positioned to sustain growth across its Retail, Wholesale and Subscription segments.
URBN’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Urban Outfitters have gained 6.3% over the past three months compared with the industry’s 3.2% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, URBN trades at a trailing price-to-sales ratio of 0.99X, down from the industry’s average of 1.45X. It has a Value Score of A.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Urban Outfitters’ fiscal 2027 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 11.8%, whereas the same for fiscal 2028 indicates an uptick of 9.8%. Estimates for fiscal 2027 and 2028 have been revised upward by 11 cents and 13 cents, respectively, over the past 30 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
URBN currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Key PicksWe have highlighted three better-ranked stocks in the retail space, namely Tapestry, Inc. (TPR - Free Report) , Genesco Inc. (GCO - Free Report) and Levi Strauss & Co. (LEVI - Free Report) .
Tapestry is the designer and marketer of fine accessories and gifts for women and men in the United States and internationally. The company sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Tapestry’s current fiscal-year earnings and sales indicates growth of 36.3% and 13.8%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals. TPR delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 15.6%.
Genesco is a Nashville-based specialty retail and branded company, sells footwear and accessories in retail stores. The company flaunts a Zacks Rank #1 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Genesco’s current fiscal-year earnings indicates growth of 55.2% from the year-ago actuals. GCO delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 3.8%.
Levi Strauss designs and markets jeans, casual wear and related accessories for men, women and children. It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Levi Strauss’ current fiscal-year earnings and sales suggests growth of 12.7% and 5.2%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals. LEVI delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 21.4%.
Juicy, fruit-forward body care delivering real hydration hits stores and BathandBodyWorks.com on July 6
Three things to know:
New franchise: Fruit Fusion combines four brand-new, juicy fragrances with fruit fueled benefits.Brand milestone: The launch brings Bath & Body Works’ Consumer First Formula to life with brand reinvigoration and innovative products.Star power: Hilary Duff joins as brand ambassador and creative partner, a longtime fan of the brand who brings her body-positive confidence and cross-generational appeal to the campaign as its star. COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 06, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bath & Body Works is launching Fruit Fusion, a juicy new body care franchise built around fruit-forward fragrance and real, lasting hydration, with actress, singer and cultural icon Hilary Duff as brand ambassador and creative partner.
Fruit Fusion is a clear expression of Bath & Body Works' Consumer First Formula — the brand's strategic transformation plan places the consumer at the center of every decision — uniting product innovation, elevated design and a culturally relevant campaign leveraging Hilary Duff.
Fruit Fusion launches July 6 online and in stores across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise will also roll out on the Bath & Body Works Amazon storefront, marking the brand's first major product launch on the platform since its debut earlier this year. The lineup features four juicy, on-trend scents: Watermelon Whirl, Tangerine Twirl, Berry Bliss and Banana Blend. Forms include All Day Moisture Body Wash, Smooth & Soothe Body Cream, Perfume Mist for Body & Hair, Lip Oil, PocketSpray Hand Sanitizer and more, allowing customers to personalize routines through layering.
A longtime Bath & Body Works fan, Duff serves as a creative partner in bringing the collection to life. Coming off her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit feature, she brings real confidence to the campaign, an energy woven throughout the creative. Her body-positivity and genuine love of Bath & Body Works products align naturally with Fruit Fusion, which centers on feeling good and building routines that work. Much like Bath & Body Works, she is appearing in a fresh, energized way, making this a true partnership between two like-minded brands.
“For me, it's always about feeling good in your own skin and choosing what works for you,” Duff said. “I look for products that work with my routine and provide real benefits. Fruit Fusion by Bath & Body Works fits into that perfectly. The scents are joyful, the products actually deliver, and it's something I genuinely look forward to using."
This summer, Duff returns to touring for the first time in 18 years, with a new album and a new chapter that has reignited fan devotion across generations. Bath & Body Works, itself on a path of brand evolution under new leadership, recognized the alignment.
“Fruit Fusion is a clear example of our Consumer First Formula in action,” said Veronique Gabai-Pinsky, chief brand & product officer of Bath & Body Works. “We’re focused on creating high-quality, innovative products that deliver real performance and make people feel good, while showing up in ways that feel authentic and relevant. This launch brings that together, from innovation and design to the partnership with Hilary, in a way that genuinely connects with our customers.”
The Fruit Fusion formulas are dermatologist-approved*, vegan and made without sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. They pair perfumer-crafted fragrances with skin-focused ingredients including shea butter, coconut oil and hyaluronic acid to deliver more hydrated skin that feels soft and smooth while helping maintain the natural moisture barrier. The launch also introduces bright, playful packaging with new bottle architecture and soft-touch finishes.
At the center of the launch is a 360-degree marketing campaign, one of the most comprehensive in the brand’s history. It spans YouTube, connected TV, social media, in-store and high-impact out-of-home placements in major markets, including New York, Los Angeles and Phoenix, with select placements near Duff’s summer concert venues. Duff brings the collection into her everyday routine across her Instagram and TikTok channels, reaching more than 30 million followers, reinforcing the authenticity of the partnership and showing how Fruit Fusion fits naturally into daily life.
Fruit Fusion is designed as a long-term franchise, with new scents and formats planned over time. It is the latest proof point of where Bath & Body Works is headed: a brand that leads with performance, shows up in culture, and builds products consumers come back to every day.
For more information and to shop all Fruit Fusion products, visit www.bathandbodyworks.com.
FRUIT FUSION PRODUCT DETAILS
Fruit Fusion features four vibrant, fruit-forward scents — Watermelon Whirl (sugared watermelon, fresh juice, soft musk), Tangerine Twirl (bright tangerine, juicy citrus, solar burst), Berry Bliss (sweet berry, tart pomegranate, sheer woods), and Banana Blend (whipped banana, smooth vanilla, radiant amber) — each available across a full lineup of body care and fragrance products.
Fruit Fusion is available in the following formats with prices ranging from $4.95 to $18.95: All Day Moisture Body Wash, Perfume Mist for Body & Hair, Smooth & Soothe Body Cream, 48H Moisturizing Body Lotion, Hand Cream, Mini Perfume Mist, Lip Oil, PocketSpray, Coin Purse, Charms, PocketSpray Holder.
ABOUT BATH & BODY WORKS
Bath & Body Works is a global leader in personal care and home fragrance, driven by the belief that everybody deserves to feel good.
The brand’s beloved and iconic scents are expertly crafted for exceptional performance and a luxury fragrance experience. Formulated with thoughtfully chosen ingredients, Bath & Body Works’ body care products are available in multiple forms including fine fragrance mist, body cream, lotion, eau de parfum, body wash, hand soap, sanitizer and more. The brand’s famous 3-wick candles are made with rich, high-quality fragrance oils layered throughout a premium soy wax base, for up to 45 hours of room-filling fragrance.
Consumers can shop Bath & Body Works anytime and anywhere they choose, from welcoming, in-store experiences at more than 1,900 stores in the U.S. and Canada, 500-plus international locations, online at bathandbodyworks.com and on Amazon.
*Based on review of independent testing by board-certified dermatologist.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/50e10df3-caee-47ed-8977-93bd5523ef80
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c2e81a30-2430-4449-b044-997dbf4ec917
A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c7ae15fb-3c07-4f31-a87f-8f7d1d4525bf
Fruit Fusions FINAL CAMPAIGN VIDEO Fruit Fusions FINAL CAMPAIGN VIDEO
Key Takeaways Five Below posted nearly $1.3B in Q1 fiscal 2026 sales, up almost 33% year over year.Five Below's comparable sales rose 23%, driven by a 19% gain in transactions and 4% ticket growth.Five Below raised fiscal 2026 sales guidance to $5.4B-$5.48B and projected comparable sales growth of 6%-8%. Five Below, Inc. (FIVE - Free Report) continues to benefit from customers spending more during each store visit, supporting the retailer’s strong sales performance and reinforcing the effectiveness of its merchandising strategy. The value retailer reported net sales of nearly $1.3 billion in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, up almost 33% year over year, fueled by a 23% increase in comparable sales and strong contributions from newly opened stores.
A key driver behind this momentum was the combination of rising customer traffic and higher average ticket sizes. Management noted that comparable sales growth was supported by a 19% increase in transactions and a 4% rise in ticket value, reflecting healthy consumer engagement and the company’s ability to offer compelling products across multiple price points.
Five Below’s merchandising strategy continues to resonate with shoppers. The retailer has expanded its assortment while maintaining a strong value perception, with more than 80% of its products still priced at $5 and below. At the same time, customers have responded positively to higher-priced items that offer strong perceived value, helping increase spending per visit without sacrificing traffic.
The company also benefited from successful trend-driven merchandising and targeted marketing initiatives. Popular categories such as toys, collectibles, candy, beauty and seasonal products attracted shoppers, while social media-driven campaigns helped bring new customers into stores. Management highlighted strong growth in both new and repeat customers, reinforcing the effectiveness of its evolving customer engagement strategy.
Encouraged by its first-quarter performance, Five Below raised its fiscal 2026 outlook. The company now expects fiscal 2026 sales of $5.4 billion to $5.48 billion and comparable sales growth of 6% to 8%. As customers continue to embrace the retailer’s value-focused assortment and spend more per visit, higher ticket growth is expected to remain an important contributor to overall sales momentum.
ULTA & BBWI’s Sales Picture vs. FIVEUlta Beauty, Inc.’s (ULTA - Free Report) sales momentum remained strong in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, supported by broad-based growth across channels and categories. Ulta Beauty’s net sales increased 11.1% year over year to $3.16 billion, while comparable sales rose 5.3%, driven by a 3.7% increase in average ticket and a 1.6% gain in transactions.
Stores and digital operations contributed to growth, with e-commerce delivering mid-teen sales gains. Fragrance, prestige beauty and haircare were among the strongest-performing categories, highlighting healthy consumer demand across the portfolio. Ulta Beauty reported positive contributions from all major categories and channels, underscoring the resilience of its business model and reinforcing confidence in its ability to sustain growth in a dynamic retail environment.
Bath & Body Works, Inc.’s (BBWI - Free Report) sales performance remained challenged in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, though results came in ahead of expectations. The company reported net sales of $1.38 billion, down 3% year over year, as underlying business trends remained pressured and largely consistent with those of recent quarters.
Despite these headwinds, Bath & Body Works is beginning to see encouraging signs from its Consumer First Formula strategy. Soaps & Sanitizers recorded low-single-digit sales growth, while international retail sales increased at a double-digit pace, partially offsetting weakness in Body Care and Home Fragrance. Bath & Body Works noted that investments in product innovation, brand revitalization and marketplace expansion are starting to resonate with consumers, providing early evidence that these initiatives could support a return to sustainable growth over time.
FIVE’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesFIVE shares have rallied 41.1% over the past year against the industry’s decline of 9.6%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, Five Below is trading at a trailing 12-month price-to-sales ratio of 2.00X, up from the industry average of 1.62X. It has a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Five Below’s fiscal 2026 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 34.3%, whereas the same for fiscal 2027 indicates an uptick of 9.3%. Estimates for fiscal 2026 and 2027 have been revised upward by 45 cents and 36 cents, respectively, over the past 30 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Five Below currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Choosing an interoperability stack requires weighing pure messaging against full application platforms.
Start Building with ZetaChain documentation to test the universal application workflow.
A zetachain vs chainlink ccip comparison reveals two distinct approaches to building across networks. Chainlink CCIP functions as a messaging and infrastructure layer that uses oracle networks to securely move data and tokens between smart contracts. In contrast, ZetaChain provides a universal Layer-1 blockchain with an application platform architecture called zEVM. This allows developers to deploy smart contracts that natively manage assets and data on both EVM and non-EVM chains like Bitcoin. While CCIP excels at high-security message passing, ZetaChain enables unified liquidity and native programmability for chains that lack their own smart contract logic. As noted in recent blockchain research, choosing between these models depends on whether a project needs a secure bridge or a sovereign execution environment for its universal applications.
ZetaChain vs Chainlink CCIP at a glanceChoosing between ZetaChain and Chainlink CCIP depends on your project goals. ZetaChain is a full platform for apps. It lets you build tools that work on many chains at once. Chainlink CCIP is a messaging tool. It helps move data and tokens from one place to another. Both help with inter-chain links but work in very different ways. Knowing these differences helps you pick the right tool for your app.
Platform versus protocolZetaChain acts as a universal layer for AI and Web3. It uses a virtual machine called zEVM to run smart contracts. This allows you to deploy code in one spot that reaches every linked network. You get unified and portable memory across every model, app, and agent. This makes it a sovereign memory layer for AI. It is built to help devs manage private data and money without needing new systems.
Chainlink CCIP works as a bridge for messages and data. It does not host its own apps or state. It is mainly a way to send info between chains that already exist. A uniform protocol is often needed to link different blockchain systems. CCIP provides a standard way to move tokens and facts. But it does not provide a single place to run your app's main logic.
Security and network trustSecurity models vary between these two systems. ZetaChain uses a Proof-of-Stake model with over 70 validators. This provides a decentralized path for inter-chain work. It relies on a large group of nodes to keep the network safe. Chainlink CCIP relies on oracle networks to verify data. These networks act as a middle layer to watch and report on chain events. Both aim to keep your data safe during transfers.
Experts note that decentralized frameworks are vital for safe blockchain use. Risks in these systems can lead to big losses if not handled well. You can read about the ZetaChain design for inter-chain work to see how this trust works. Using a decentralized group of nodes helps reduce the risk of a single point of failure. This is key for apps that handle high value or private data.
Support for native BitcoinZetaChain provides native support for the Bitcoin network. It uses TSS tech to let smart contracts manage Bitcoin directly. This means you can build apps that use BTC without using wrapped versions. It helps create unified liquidity across many chains. This is a big plus for DeFi tools that want to tap into Bitcoin's value. You can build once and reach users on both EVM and non-EVM chains.
Chainlink CCIP does not offer this native support. It focuses more on moving assets between EVM-ready chains. If you want to use Bitcoin with CCIP, you often need to use wrapped tokens. This can add extra steps and risks for your users. ZetaChain's approach is more direct. It allows for native inter-chain work that includes chains like Bitcoin and Solana from the start.
Feature
ZetaChain
Chainlink CCIP
Core Design
Application platform (L1)
Messaging and bridge layer
Execution
On-chain zEVM smart contracts
Off-chain oracle networks
Native Bitcoin
Full support via TSS
No native support
Security Model
Proof-of-Stake (70+ nodes)
Oracle-based trust
Primary Goal
Unified app and AI memory
Secure data and token transfer
Ideal Use Cases
AI agents and unified DeFi
Bank and token transfers
What is the architectural difference?
Conceptual comparison: ZetaChain centralizes application execution and state on zEVM, while CCIP delivers messages between separately deployed contracts.
Platform versus protocolZetaChain and Chainlink CCIP serve different roles in the blockchain world. ZetaChain is an app platform. It acts as a full Layer-1 network where teams can build and run code. Chainlink CCIP is a messaging protocol. It moves data and tokens between two different chains but does not host the code itself. This is the main point when looking at zetachain vs chainlink ccip for your next project.
Because ZetaChain is a platform, it provides a place for state to live. Builders use the ZetaChain EVM (zEVM) to create smart contracts that talk to many chains at once. This setup is a unique interoperability design because it keeps the logic in one place. But CCIP requires teams to set up and manage contracts on every chain they want to use. This makes ZetaChain a true universal layer for apps.
Where business logic livesWhen you use Chainlink CCIP, your app's logic is spread across many networks. You must manage how these parts talk to each other through messages. This can make your work hard as you grow and add more chains. A secure and decentralized framework is needed to make sure these messages are safe. CCIP uses an oracle network to check and move this data between separate chains.
ZetaChain changes this by letting you keep all your logic on one chain. You write your contract once on ZetaChain. Then it can control assets on Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other networks from that single spot. This creates unified liquidity since the state and assets are not split up. This model helps teams build fast without worrying about how to sync data across many spots. It acts as a sovereign memory layer for AI and web3 apps.
This single-point logic is vital for AI agents that need to store data. ZetaChain 2.0 offers a native Private Memory Layer. This lets AI apps keep a lasting state that follows the user across any model or app. Messaging protocols like CCIP are not built to hold this kind of lasting memory. They only move data from one point to another without storing it in a central, secure way.
Security and native chain supportThe two systems also use different ways to keep things safe. Chainlink CCIP relies on oracle networks to secure its message transfers. ZetaChain uses an economic Proof-of-Stake model. It has over 70 validators that work together to reach a consensus on the state of the network. This model offers a strong way to reduce possible risks in a world with many chains.
One big difference is how they handle chains like Bitcoin. ZetaChain has native support for Bitcoin through a system called TSS. This lets you build apps that use real Bitcoin directly without using wrapped tokens. Chainlink CCIP is mainly for chains that already support smart contracts. For teams that want to use Bitcoin or Solana alongside Ethereum, ZetaChain offers a more direct and native path. This makes it easier to build apps that reach the widest group of users.
How should developers choose an interoperability stack?Choosing the right tools for your app is a big task. The choice between ZetaChain vs Chainlink CCIP shifts how you manage data and assets. Both systems help chains talk, but they use different paths. Your team needs to look at your app's core needs before you pick a base. This choice will set your path for years as you grow.
Check your asset and chain needsFirst, look at which networks your app must reach. If you need to use Bitcoin or Solana without a bridge, you need a system that supports them. ZetaChain provides native Bitcoin support so you can write code that works with real BTC. Other tools like Chainlink CCIP focus on moving messages between EVM chains. They do not have the same native support for non-EVM assets. You can learn more about this in our look at ZetaChain's unique interoperability architecture and how it works.
ZetaChain acts as a universal layer for your code. You can build one app that touches every chain you need. This saves time and cuts down on the work your team has to do. If your goal is to reach users on many chains, a unified system is often the best path. It helps you keep your code in one place while your app reaches out to the whole world. This is a key part of building a great user flow.
Compare the safety modelsTrust is the most important part of any system that moves value. A secure and decentralized framework is a must for safe data flow. ZetaChain uses a Proof-of-Stake model with more than 70 nodes. These nodes work to keep the chain safe and open. This setup is spread out so that no single point can fail. It provides a strong base for apps that handle big assets or private data.
In contrast, Chainlink CCIP relies on its own oracle network to pass data. This system has a long track record of safe use across the space. Both models aim to stop bad actors, but they use different trust paths. You should pick the one that fits your own risk plan. A spread-out model with many nodes offers a clear and open way to check that everything is working well. This helps your team and your users sleep better at night.
Check state and memory needsDo you want to run one contract that controls many chains, or just send a few messages? ZetaChain lets you build on its zEVM platform to manage assets on many chains at once. This creates a unified pool of funds that flows where it is needed most. Chainlink CCIP is built as a messaging layer to send data and tokens. It does not offer a place to host your whole app's logic in one spot.
If you plan to use AI, your needs will be even more clear. ZetaChain's new 2.0 layer offers a private memory space for AI apps. This is a unique feature that other tools do not have right now. It helps AI agents store data and act as interoperable networks in a safe way. To get started with these tools, you should look at the full developer docs for more help. This will show you the best way to set up your new system.
Map your asset needs. List every chain your app needs to touch and check if they are all EVM or if you need non-EVM help.
Select your state model. Decide if you want one main contract to rule every chain or if you want to sync many small pieces of code.
Verify Bitcoin support. Confirm if your app needs to hold or spend native BTC, as this needs a certain type of platform to work.
Test the cost and speed. Look at how much it costs to send data and how long those steps take for users to see.
Check for AI memory. Think about if your app will need to store private data or route to AI models as you build more features later.
Review the ZetaChain docs and prototype one end-to-end user flow before choosing your production stack.
How do the developer workflows compare?Comparing how developers work with ZetaChain and Chainlink CCIP shows two clear paths. ZetaChain acts as a full app platform. Chainlink CCIP serves as a messaging layer. This choice shapes how teams build, test, and keep their code on many networks.
Building on the ZetaChain platformOn ZetaChain, you write smart contracts directly on its own network using zEVM. This lets you create apps that manage assets on many chains from one place. This setup, known as ZetaChain's unique interoperability architecture, means you do not need to put new code on every network you use. For example, you can build apps that work with Bitcoin even though Bitcoin has no smart contracts. This saves time and reduces the work needed to keep code in sync.
Developers use common tools like Hardhat or Foundry to write and test their contracts. Since ZetaChain is its own blockchain, you can test your logic in one space. This is faster than testing messages between many separate testnets. Standardized protocols are needed to make sure these contracts work well together. ZetaChain gives you a simple way to handle these actions without complex message passing.
Using Chainlink CCIP for messagingChainlink CCIP works by sending data and tokens between chains. When you use CCIP, you often keep your app's logic on each chain you want to connect. You then use the CCIP interface to send messages between them. This fits teams that want to keep logic on one chain like Ethereum. They can still reach other networks using CCIP. But this path means you must manage and secure many copies of your code.
The workflow for building interoperable applications with CCIP involves learning its messaging patterns. You must handle how messages are sent, received, and checked by oracle networks. This adds a layer of detail to your code. You also need to manage gas costs on both the start and end chains. CCIP tries to make this easy with its gas system, but it still needs careful planning to avoid failed trades.
Monitoring and maintenance trade-offsMonitoring your app on ZetaChain is like watching any other Layer-1 network. You check the status of your contracts and your unified liquidity. Because everything happens in one place, it is easier to track the steps of a user's action. A secure and decentralized framework helps ensure that these actions are processed well. You do not need to wait for messages to pass through many middle steps to see the final result.
With Chainlink CCIP, monitoring is harder because you must watch many chains at once. You need to check that a message sent from one chain arrived and worked on the next one. If a failure occurs, finding where it happened takes more effort. You also have to track the status of the oracle networks that secure your messages. This setup means you must update and patch contracts on every chain. This can increase the risk of errors over time.
ZetaChain provides a single place to write and run code for all chains.
Chainlink CCIP acts as a bridge for data and tokens between existing apps.
ZetaChain supports non-EVM networks like Bitcoin natively.
CCIP requires managing code on every chain you want to use.
How do the security models differ?ZetaChain uses a Proof-of-Stake system to protect the network. This setup relies on 70+ nodes to check and confirm every move. Each node must stake tokens to join. If a node tries to cheat, it loses its stake. This creates a strong link between safety and money. A secure and shared system helps make sure these moves stay valid across other networks.
Economic Proof-of-Stake vs oracle networksChainlink CCIP takes another path for its safety. It uses a network of oracles to send data. These oracles have a long track record of keeping funds safe. But they rely on their own group of nodes to check data. ZetaChain acts as a full blockchain. It handles all safety on its own Layer-1. This means the trust stays within a single, shared group of nodes. Both models work well, but they ask users to trust other parts of the tech stack.
Validation and trust assumptionsTrust is key in any inter-chain setup. When you use ZetaChain's unique design, you get a single source of truth. The chain itself checks every move. You do not need an outside party to pass your data. This model is built for the sovereign memory layer for AI. It keeps all data in one place so it stays safe and easy to find. CCIP uses a second network to watch for risks. This group looks for odd moves and stops them if they look wrong.
How they handle finality and speedZetaChain offers fast speed for all moves. Once a move is done on ZetaChain, the state is changed for all linked apps. CCIP depends on the speed of the source and target chains. This can add wait times for users. Builders using CCIP must account for these delays. On the other hand, the universal layer approach lets apps react to data as soon as the block is signed. This speed is vital for apps that need fast data flow, such as AI agents using shared memory.
Developer security dutiesBuilders have to think about their own tasks too. ZetaChain lets you write code that runs in one spot. You do not have to manage data on many chains at once. This makes it easier to keep your app safe. It reduces the spots where bugs can hide. CCIP is a sending tool. You must make sure your messages reach their target. You also have to handle what happens if a chain stops working. Using a universal layer helps you build fast with fewer risks to manage.
Builders also have to look at rate limits and controls. CCIP has built-in limits on how much value can move at once. This helps stop large thefts if a bug is found. ZetaChain lets you set your own rules within your smart contracts. Since you build on a full Layer-1, you have total control over how your app behaves. You can build custom safety checks that fit your exact needs. This choice is part of why ZetaChain is seen as a universal layer for AI and Web3. It gives you the tools to build safe, complex apps that can scale across the whole network.
When is ZetaChain the better fit?Choosing between ZetaChain and Chainlink CCIP depends on the goals of your project. Chainlink CCIP works well for simple data and token transfers between networks. But many teams find that ZetaChain is the better choice when they need a full platform to build and run apps. It provides a layer for logic that can reach every linked network at once.
Projects needing one stateBuilders who want to manage a single state across many networks should choose ZetaChain. With its universal layer, you only need to deploy your smart contracts once. This move removes the need to keep up other versions of your code on every network you support. It makes it easy to control assets and data because everything stays in sync in one place.
Using a joining protocol helps teams build apps that work well across other chains. This one model is a key part of ZetaChain's unique interoperability architecture. It allows you to build a single hub for your users. They can work with your app from any wallet without moving their funds to a new chain first.
Native Bitcoin and non-EVM appsIf your project needs to use native Bitcoin, ZetaChain is the best fit. It is the only major platform that allows you to write smart contracts that control Bitcoin. You do not need to use wrapped assets or complex bridges that add risk. This native support also extends to other networks like Solana, which gives you a wider reach than link tools.
A spread out framework is vital for making these inter-chain actions safe. ZetaChain uses a network of over 70 nodes to secure these tasks. This model ensures that your app can talk to non-EVM chains while keeping a high level of safety. It is a strong tool for builders who want to tap into the large pool of Bitcoin users.
AI and private memory solutionsTeams building AI tools should look at ZetaChain for its private memory layer. This feature allows you to store and manage data that stays private and easy to move. Most other networks only focus on moving tokens, but ZetaChain acts as a memory layer for models and agents. It helps you build apps that can learn and remember across other places.
You can use the AI Portal to route tasks to other models based on what your app needs. This system makes it easy to add AI features to your blockchain tools. It gives you a way to sell your models while keeping control of the data. This focus on memory and AI makes it a unique fit for the next wave of smart apps.
Explore the ZetaChain ecosystem to see how builders apply universal application architecture.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the architectural difference between ZetaChain and Chainlink CCIP?ZetaChain is a Layer-1 app platform that hosts smart contracts and stores state. This allows builders to keep business logic in one place while connecting to other networks. Chainlink CCIP is a messaging protocol that moves data and tokens between different spots. According to Chainlink, CCIP is mainly a tool for base layer work and data transfer. ZetaChain provides a unified spot for code, while CCIP requires teams to manage code on every connected chain.
How does Chainlink CCIP secure data transfers between networks?Chainlink CCIP uses decentralized oracle networks to verify and move messages between different chains. This system checks that each message is valid before it reaches the final destination. A study in the National Library of Medicine notes that protocols rely on different security models like validator sets or oracles. CCIP focuses on secure data and token transfers using its proven oracle setup. This helps protect the integrity of the data as it moves through the decentralized web.
Can developers build apps on ZetaChain that connect to many blockchains?Yes, developers can use ZetaChain to build apps that connect to many networks from a single point. This is possible through the ZetaChain EVM, which allows for unified logic and data. According to ZetaChain, the platform enables native support for chains like Bitcoin and Solana. This setup helps teams build apps that reach users on different blockchains without needing wrapped assets. It creates a sovereign memory layer for AI that works across the whole network.
What are the trade-offs between ZetaChain and Chainlink CCIP for developers?Developers choose between these tools based on where they want to keep their logic. ZetaChain allows teams to build apps with a single state that connects to many chains. This reduces the need to manage many contracts on different networks. Chainlink CCIP is a strong choice for simple data moves but requires more work to sync state. As noted by ZetaChain, its platform helps developers build apps with native AI and memory features. This unified approach can save time during the build process.
Ready to Start Building on the sovereign memory layer?Choosing a tech stack is a big step that defines how fast your team can ship and grow in the next few years. If you wait to choose your path, you will waste months on code that does not scale or work with new tools. This delay lets your rivals get a head start while you stay stuck with old systems that fail as the market moves. By starting on a sovereign memory layer today, you save time and reach more users through a single, unified app layer. The cost of doing nothing is a loss of speed that your project may never get back in this fast tech world. Use a system that handles private memory and works for all models and agents to keep your project on the right track. You can read more about ZetaChain's unique interoperability architecture to learn how it works.
Start Building with the documentation and validate your architecture in code.
Not financial or tax advice. PANews content is strictly educational and informational and is not investment advice, financial advice, tax advice, legal advice, or a solicitation to buy or sell any digital asset, security, or financial product. Do your own research and consult qualified advisers.
Disclosure. PANews may publish sponsored content, partner content, advertisements, affiliate links, event promotions, and market commentary involving Web3 projects, service providers, or financial products. PANews personnel, contributors, or affiliates may hold digital assets or other interests related to covered topics. See our Terms of Service.
According to new data published by Visa, the adjusted stablecoin transaction volume soared to $1.79 trillion in June. This marks a staggering 63 percent increase from May’s $1.1 trillion, not only surpassing the previous peak of $1.78 trillion in February but also representing a year-on-year surge of 125 percent. The numbers signal a dramatic growth in stablecoin activity across the sector.
A new all-time high in JuneThe data indicates that stablecoin adoption is expanding well beyond simple crypto trading. Use cases are widening to include payments, decentralized finance applications, and cross-border money transfers. Even as the broader crypto market shows signs of stagnation, the sustained increase in stablecoin transaction volume points to a new central role for these assets in the digital asset ecosystem.
Grayscale’s Head of Research, Zach Pandl, remarked that June 2026 became another record-setting month for stablecoin transaction volumes, surpassing even February’s highs.
Grayscale, a leading digital asset investment firm, frequently stands out with its in-depth institutional analysis. Its research division regularly provides evaluations on capital flows in crypto markets and updates on the evolving infrastructure landscape.
USDC dominates June transaction volumeDespite Tether’s USDT retaining its crown as the largest stablecoin by market capitalization, June’s transaction volume spotlighted Circle’s USDC. Visa’s data illustrates that USDC accounted for $1.21 trillion in transactions — around 67 percent of the total. By contrast, USDT saw $576 billion in volume, securing about 32 percent market share. PayPal’s PYUSD rounded out the top three with $2.42 billion in transactions.
These figures reveal a clear divergence between market capitalization and real-world usage. Which stablecoins are chosen for payments and on-chain liquidity flows provides fresh insight into evolving user preferences and trends within the broader crypto economy.
Base and Ethereum neck and neck for network activityIn June, most stablecoin operations took place on Coinbase’s Ethereum layer 2 network Base, which processed $565 billion — about 31.5 percent of the total volume. Ethereum’s mainnet closely followed at $562 billion, while Tron ranked third with $320 billion, accounting for roughly 18 percent of all transactions measured.
Mini glossary: A layer 2 network is a scaling solution built atop the main blockchain that aims to process transactions faster or more cost-effectively. Base is one such network operating on Ethereum.
Visa, working with Artemis, Allium Labs, and Castle Island Ventures, has refined its calculation methods to filter out high-frequency bot trades, exchange treasury rebalancing, and repetitive smart contract activity. The company emphasizes that this approach is designed to more accurately reflect genuine, organic stablecoin activity.
New launches and institutional interest intensifyingAs competition in the stablecoin market heats up, Open Standard announced the launch of Open USD (OUSD) on Tuesday. The project has reportedly secured backing from more than 140 organizations spanning payments, banking, technology, and crypto — including heavyweights Visa and Mastercard.
Nick Ruck, head of LVRG Research, commented that the record-breaking volume underscores how stablecoins are establishing themselves as foundational infrastructure for value transfer, liquidity provisioning, and decentralized finance — independent from price volatility.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article does not constitute investment advice. Investors should be aware that cryptocurrencies carry high volatility and therefore risk, and should conduct their own research.
According to official announcements, the 2026 trading competition "Island Project"—jointly hosted by Deribit and SignalPlus—has officially launched. The event features a total prize pool of up to 600,000 USDC, marking the first time a private island is offered as the grand prize. Multiple winning tracks are open, including daily trading, block trading, and referral rewards, allowing participants to start competing for rewards immediately. Key highlights: 1. Registration: All participants can claim a free option. 2. Balance: Users maintaining a balance of ≥0.1 USDC are eligible for a draw to win a 600 USDC action camera. 3. Block trading: Block trading fees are reduced by 30%–50%, with an additional post-event draw for a 2,000 USDC luxury vacation. 4. Daily trading: 100% of daily traders win rewards, plus a draw for a 60,000 USDC private island in Finland. 5. Referral: Referring friends guarantees rewards, with an additional post-event draw for a 30,000 USDC private island in Canada. The competition runs from July 6 to August 11 (UTC+8, deadline 7:59). Registration details are available in the official announcement.
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Deribit by Coinbase, via its broker-dealer DRB Panama Inc., and SignalPlus, a leading provider of software and infrastructure solutions for crypto derivatives, today announced the launch of The Island, their fifth trading competition and biggest edition to date.
Running for 35 days, the competition features up to $600,000 USDC in prizes across solo and team competition, daily and weekly reward rounds, Mystery Box deposit mechanics, short-dated options challenges, and a Private Island jackpot.
Registration for The Island opens on June 29 at 08:00 UTC, with the competition running from July 6 at 08:00 UTC through August 10 at 23:59 UTC. To participate, users must trade through SignalPlus on Deribit. Competition standings will be based on eligible options and futures trading volume only, with options weighted 1.0 and futures weighted 0.5.
The campaign is designed around eleven core arenas spanning weekly volume competition, daily reward loops, team participation, referral-driven expansion, whale and block-trade incentives, and dynamic ecosystem progression in one connected experience. New mechanics in this edition include the Mystery Box deposit experience, a weekly P&L leaderboard, short-dated options reward multipliers, and the Flash Arena, where higher short-dated options volume unlocks more jackpot shots and reward opportunities.
Key Details
Total Prize Pool: Up to $600,000 USDC Registration Period: June 29, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Competition Period: July 6, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Eligibility: Open to eligible retail traders on Deribit via SignalPlus Registration Link: https://t.signalplus.com/deribitislandcompetition This campaign is run by DRB Panama Inc and is not targeted at or intended for residents of Dubai, UAE. T&Cs apply. Virtual Assets are subject to extreme market volatility, involve a high degree of risk, and can lose value, in part or in full.
Early Bird Incentives
Users who register by July 7th will receive 3 free Deribit options. Team captains who invite five or more friends to register by July 7th will have a chance to win a Cressi Velvet Wetsuit valued at 300 USDC. Among the first 10 participants to reach 200M in trading volume by July 12, one randomly selected winner will receive two RIMOWA suitcases valued at 5,000 USDC in total. “The Island brings together everything we want this competition to be: bigger scale, stronger participation loops, and a structure that rewards how active options traders actually engage,” said Luuk Strijers, Senior Director from Deribit by Coinbase. “With solo and team competition, short-dated options mechanics and aspirational rewards led by the Private Island jackpot, this is our most ambitious retail trading campaign yet.”“We are excited to partner with Deribit by Coinbase once again on the latest edition of the competition,” said Chris Yu, CEO and Co-Founder from SignalPlus. “The Island is designed to make participation more dynamic and more rewarding, whether traders are competing on volume, teaming up with their network, or engaging through short-dated options and daily missions. Together, we are creating a more immersive experience for sophisticated retail traders.”
Competition Highlights include:
Core Arena: Weekly solo and team trading leaderboards designed to reward notional trading activity across individual and squad-based competition. Mystery Box Deposit Round: Users who register and maintain deposits for seven days unlock Mystery Box draw chances tied to guaranteed USDC prizes and premium rewards. Daily Reward Ecosystem: Daily individual and team missions encourage repeat engagement, with volume-based rewards and team milestone unlocks. Flash Arena: Short-dated options trading powers daily reward multipliers and jackpot-style shooting mechanics, including access to the Private Island reward opportunity. Block Arena: High-balance and block-trade participants can unlock fee rebates and luxury reward opportunities. Expansion Arena: Referral mechanics reward both community growth and successful invitations of higher-value traders. In addition to the Private Island headline reward, this year’s prize pool includes a range of premium rewards such as a Rolex Watch, Apple Vision Pro, NVIDIA Stock, Luxury Turkey Trip, Ledger Stax, Gentle Monster Sunglasses, Razer Keyboard, SOL spot rewards, trading fee coupons, and daily USDC prize pools.
The Island invites participants into a dynamic retail trading competition that combines strategic trading with team-based participation and a tiered reward structure. With every trade, participants move closer to exclusive rewards, from daily USDC prizes to the Private Island headline jackpot. The event begins today.
About Deribit
Deribit by Coinbase is a centralized, institutional-grade provider of crypto derivatives ecosystem, specializing in Bitcoin and Ethereum options and futures. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, Deribit offers instantaneous price discovery, low-latency execution, advanced risk mitigation tools, and deep liquidity through a network of top-tier market makers. Deribit facilitates the majority of global crypto options volume and upholds rigorous proof-of-reserves practices to maintain the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
About SignalPlus
Signalplus provides trading software and infrastructure for crypto derivatives, helping professional and sophisticated retail traders access options, futures, and spot markets with advanced execution and analytics tools. SignalPlus delivers a comprehensive options trading suite tailored for crypto derivatives traders.
Deribit by Coinbase, via its broker-dealer DRB Panama Inc., and SignalPlus, a leading provider of software and infrastructure solutions for crypto derivatives, today announced the launch of The Island, their fifth trading competition and biggest edition to date.
Running for 35 days, the competition features up to $600,000 USDC in prizes across solo and team competition, daily and weekly reward rounds, Mystery Box deposit mechanics, short-dated options challenges, and a Private Island jackpot.
Registration for The Island opens on June 29 at 08:00 UTC, with the competition running from July 6 at 08:00 UTC through August 10 at 23:59 UTC. To participate, users must trade through SignalPlus on Deribit. Competition standings will be based on eligible options and futures trading volume only, with options weighted 1.0 and futures weighted 0.5.
The campaign is designed around eleven core arenas spanning weekly volume competition, daily reward loops, team participation, referral-driven expansion, whale and block-trade incentives, and dynamic ecosystem progression in one connected experience. New mechanics in this edition include the Mystery Box deposit experience, a weekly P&L leaderboard, short-dated options reward multipliers, and the Flash Arena, where higher short-dated options volume unlocks more jackpot shots and reward opportunities.
Key Details
Total Prize Pool: Up to $600,000 USDC Registration Period: June 29, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Competition Period: July 6, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Eligibility: Open to eligible retail traders on Deribit via SignalPlus Registration Link: https://t.signalplus.com/deribitislandcompetition This campaign is run by DRB Panama Inc and is not targeted at or intended for residents of Dubai, UAE. T&Cs apply. Virtual Assets are subject to extreme market volatility, involve a high degree of risk, and can lose value, in part or in full.
Early Bird Incentives
Users who register by July 7th will receive 3 free Deribit options. Team captains who invite five or more friends to register by July 7th will have a chance to win a Cressi Velvet Wetsuit valued at 300 USDC. Among the first 10 participants to reach 200M in trading volume by July 12, one randomly selected winner will receive two RIMOWA suitcases valued at 5,000 USDC in total. “The Island brings together everything we want this competition to be: bigger scale, stronger participation loops, and a structure that rewards how active options traders actually engage,” said Luuk Strijers, Senior Director from Deribit by Coinbase. “With solo and team competition, short-dated options mechanics and aspirational rewards led by the Private Island jackpot, this is our most ambitious retail trading campaign yet.”
“We are excited to partner with Deribit by Coinbase once again on the latest edition of the competition,” said Chris Yu, CEO and Co-Founder from SignalPlus. “The Island is designed to make participation more dynamic and more rewarding, whether traders are competing on volume, teaming up with their network, or engaging through short-dated options and daily missions. Together, we are creating a more immersive experience for sophisticated retail traders.”
Competition Highlights include:
Core Arena: Weekly solo and team trading leaderboards designed to reward notional trading activity across individual and squad-based competition. Mystery Box Deposit Round: Users who register and maintain deposits for seven days unlock Mystery Box draw chances tied to guaranteed USDC prizes and premium rewards. Daily Reward Ecosystem: Daily individual and team missions encourage repeat engagement, with volume-based rewards and team milestone unlocks. Flash Arena: Short-dated options trading powers daily reward multipliers and jackpot-style shooting mechanics, including access to the Private Island reward opportunity. Block Arena: High-balance and block-trade participants can unlock fee rebates and luxury reward opportunities. Expansion Arena: Referral mechanics reward both community growth and successful invitations of higher-value traders. In addition to the Private Island headline reward, this year’s prize pool includes a range of premium rewards such as a Rolex Watch, Apple Vision Pro, NVIDIA Stock, Luxury Turkey Trip, Ledger Stax, Gentle Monster Sunglasses, Razer Keyboard, SOL spot rewards, trading fee coupons, and daily USDC prize pools.
The Island invites participants into a dynamic retail trading competition that combines strategic trading with team-based participation and a tiered reward structure. With every trade, participants move closer to exclusive rewards, from daily USDC prizes to the Private Island headline jackpot. The event begins today.
About Deribit
Deribit by Coinbase is a centralized, institutional-grade provider of crypto derivatives ecosystem, specializing in Bitcoin and Ethereum options and futures. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, Deribit offers instantaneous price discovery, low-latency execution, advanced risk mitigation tools, and deep liquidity through a network of top-tier market makers. Deribit facilitates the majority of global crypto options volume and upholds rigorous proof-of-reserves practices to maintain the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
About SignalPlus
Signalplus provides trading software and infrastructure for crypto derivatives, helping professional and sophisticated retail traders access options, futures, and spot markets with advanced execution and analytics tools. SignalPlus delivers a comprehensive options trading suite tailored for crypto derivatives traders.
Deribit by Coinbase, via its broker-dealer DRB Panama Inc., and SignalPlus, a leading provider of software and infrastructure solutions for crypto derivatives, today announced the launch of The Island, their fifth trading competition and biggest edition to date.
Running for 35 days, the competition features up to $600,000 USDC in prizes across solo and team competition, daily and weekly reward rounds, Mystery Box deposit mechanics, short-dated options challenges, and a Private Island jackpot.
Registration for The Island opens on June 29 at 08:00 UTC, with the competition running from July 6 at 08:00 UTC through August 10 at 23:59 UTC. To participate, users must trade through SignalPlus on Deribit. Competition standings will be based on eligible options and futures trading volume only, with options weighted 1.0 and futures weighted 0.5.
The campaign is designed around eleven core arenas spanning weekly volume competition, daily reward loops, team participation, referral-driven expansion, whale and block-trade incentives, and dynamic ecosystem progression in one connected experience. New mechanics in this edition include the Mystery Box deposit experience, a weekly P&L leaderboard, short-dated options reward multipliers, and the Flash Arena, where higher short-dated options volume unlocks more jackpot shots and reward opportunities.
Key Details
Total Prize Pool: Up to $600,000 USDC Registration Period: June 29, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Competition Period: July 6, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Eligibility: Open to eligible retail traders on Deribit via SignalPlus Registration Link: https://t.signalplus.com/deribitislandcompetition This campaign is run by DRB Panama Inc and is not targeted at or intended for residents of Dubai, UAE. T&Cs apply. Virtual Assets are subject to extreme market volatility, involve a high degree of risk, and can lose value, in part or in full.
Early Bird Incentives
Users who register by July 7th will receive 3 free Deribit options. Team captains who invite five or more friends to register by July 7th will have a chance to win a Cressi Velvet Wetsuit valued at 300 USDC. Among the first 10 participants to reach 200M in trading volume by July 12, one randomly selected winner will receive two RIMOWA suitcases valued at 5,000 USDC in total. “The Island brings together everything we want this competition to be: bigger scale, stronger participation loops, and a structure that rewards how active options traders actually engage,” said Luuk Strijers, Senior Director from Deribit by Coinbase. “With solo and team competition, short-dated options mechanics and aspirational rewards led by the Private Island jackpot, this is our most ambitious retail trading campaign yet.”
“We are excited to partner with Deribit by Coinbase once again on the latest edition of the competition,” said Chris Yu, CEO and Co-Founder from SignalPlus. “The Island is designed to make participation more dynamic and more rewarding, whether traders are competing on volume, teaming up with their network, or engaging through short-dated options and daily missions. Together, we are creating a more immersive experience for sophisticated retail traders.”
Competition Highlights include:
Core Arena: Weekly solo and team trading leaderboards designed to reward notional trading activity across individual and squad-based competition. Mystery Box Deposit Round: Users who register and maintain deposits for seven days unlock Mystery Box draw chances tied to guaranteed USDC prizes and premium rewards. Daily Reward Ecosystem: Daily individual and team missions encourage repeat engagement, with volume-based rewards and team milestone unlocks. Flash Arena: Short-dated options trading powers daily reward multipliers and jackpot-style shooting mechanics, including access to the Private Island reward opportunity. Block Arena: High-balance and block-trade participants can unlock fee rebates and luxury reward opportunities. Expansion Arena: Referral mechanics reward both community growth and successful invitations of higher-value traders. In addition to the Private Island headline reward, this year’s prize pool includes a range of premium rewards such as a Rolex Watch, Apple Vision Pro, NVIDIA Stock, Luxury Turkey Trip, Ledger Stax, Gentle Monster Sunglasses, Razer Keyboard, SOL spot rewards, trading fee coupons, and daily USDC prize pools.
The Island invites participants into a dynamic retail trading competition that combines strategic trading with team-based participation and a tiered reward structure. With every trade, participants move closer to exclusive rewards, from daily USDC prizes to the Private Island headline jackpot. The event begins today.
About Deribit
Deribit by Coinbase is a centralized, institutional-grade provider of crypto derivatives ecosystem, specializing in Bitcoin and Ethereum options and futures. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, Deribit offers instantaneous price discovery, low-latency execution, advanced risk mitigation tools, and deep liquidity through a network of top-tier market makers. Deribit facilitates the majority of global crypto options volume and upholds rigorous proof-of-reserves practices to maintain the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
About SignalPlus
Signalplus provides trading software and infrastructure for crypto derivatives, helping professional and sophisticated retail traders access options, futures, and spot markets with advanced execution and analytics tools. SignalPlus delivers a comprehensive options trading suite tailored for crypto derivatives traders.
Here’s a fun way to think about Polygon’s USDC economy: roughly one out of every four dollars of identified stablecoin usage on the network flows through a single crypto casino. Stake.com holds approximately $26.91 million in USDC on Polygon, accounting for 24.8% of all known USDC activity on the chain, according to a new analysis from CoinGecko.
The numbers behind Polygon’s casino economy CoinGecko’s breakdown, released on July 2, paints a picture of extreme concentration within Polygon’s stablecoin landscape. Stake.com’s $26.91M USDC position represents 99.72% of all USDC held in Polygon’s entire casino and gambling category.
For broader context on where Polygon’s USDC actually lives: centralized exchanges account for the largest share at 35.2%, or roughly $41M. Payment processing takes up 8.4%. And then there’s Stake.com, sitting as the single largest non-exchange category at nearly a quarter of the pie.
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The platform uses this USDC primarily as operational float, the working capital needed to process deposits and withdrawals for its global crypto betting operations.
According to the CoinGecko analysis, gambling activity on Ethereum, Arbitrum, Base, and BNB Chain remains minimal by comparison. Polygon has carved out a niche as the preferred settlement layer for high-volume, low-fee betting transactions.
Why Polygon became the house’s favorite chain Stake.com operates across multiple networks, including Ethereum and Solana, for deposits and withdrawals. But the concentration of its USDC reserves on Polygon suggests that’s where the bulk of its settlement infrastructure sits.
The CoinGecko report represents what it calls the first comprehensive public breakdown quantifying how specific platforms shape stablecoin metrics on individual networks.
The security elephant in the room Stake.com’s dominance on Polygon comes with historical baggage that investors should weigh carefully. In September 2023, the platform suffered a $41M hack that targeted funds across Ethereum, Polygon, and BNB Chain.
What this means for investors For Polygon ecosystem participants and USDC holders, Polygon’s apparent USDC traction is less diversified than surface-level numbers suggest. A quarter of identified usage coming from a single gambling operator means the network’s stablecoin story is partially a gambling story.
For traders: on-chain USDC flow analysis on Polygon needs to account for Stake.com’s operational patterns. Large USDC movements on the network might not signal DeFi activity or institutional interest. They might just be a casino rebalancing its float.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
[PRESS RELEASE – Panama City, Panama, July 6th, 2026]
Deribit by Coinbase, via its broker-dealer DRB Panama Inc., and SignalPlus, a leading provider of software and infrastructure solutions for crypto derivatives, today announced the launch of The Island, their fifth trading competition and biggest edition to date.
Running for 35 days, the competition features up to $600,000 USDC in prizes across solo and team competition, daily and weekly reward rounds, Mystery Box deposit mechanics, short-dated options challenges, and a Private Island jackpot.
Registration for The Island opens on June 29 at 08:00 UTC, with the competition running from July 6 at 08:00 UTC through August 10 at 23:59 UTC. To participate, users must trade through SignalPlus on Deribit. Competition standings will be based on eligible options and futures trading volume only, with options weighted 1.0 and futures weighted 0.5.
The campaign is designed around eleven core arenas spanning weekly volume competition, daily reward loops, team participation, referral-driven expansion, whale and block-trade incentives, and dynamic ecosystem progression in one connected experience. New mechanics in this edition include the Mystery Box deposit experience, a weekly P&L leaderboard, short-dated options reward multipliers, and the Flash Arena, where higher short-dated options volume unlocks more jackpot shots and reward opportunities.
Key Details
Total Prize Pool: Up to $600,000 USDC Registration Period: June 29, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Competition Period: July 6, 2026, 08:00 UTC – August 10, 2026, 23:59 UTC Eligibility: Open to eligible retail traders on Deribit via SignalPlus Registration Link: https://t.signalplus.com/deribitislandcompetition This campaign is run by DRB Panama Inc and is not targeted at or intended for residents of Dubai, UAE. T&Cs apply. Virtual Assets are subject to extreme market volatility, involve a high degree of risk, and can lose value, in part or in full.
Early Bird Incentives
Users who register by July 7th will receive 3 free Deribit options. Team captains who invite five or more friends to register by July 7th will have a chance to win a Cressi Velvet Wetsuit valued at 300 USDC. Among the first 10 participants to reach 200M in trading volume by July 12, one randomly selected winner will receive two RIMOWA suitcases valued at 5,000 USDC in total. “The Island brings together everything we want this competition to be: bigger scale, stronger participation loops, and a structure that rewards how active options traders actually engage,” said Luuk Strijers, Senior Director from Deribit by Coinbase. “With solo and team competition, short-dated options mechanics and aspirational rewards led by the Private Island jackpot, this is our most ambitious retail trading campaign yet.”
“We are excited to partner with Deribit by Coinbase once again on the latest edition of the competition,” said Chris Yu, CEO and Co-Founder from SignalPlus. “The Island is designed to make participation more dynamic and more rewarding, whether traders are competing on volume, teaming up with their network, or engaging through short-dated options and daily missions. Together, we are creating a more immersive experience for sophisticated retail traders.”
Competition Highlights include:
Core Arena: Weekly solo and team trading leaderboards designed to reward notional trading activity across individual and squad-based competition. Mystery Box Deposit Round: Users who register and maintain deposits for seven days unlock Mystery Box draw chances tied to guaranteed USDC prizes and premium rewards. Daily Reward Ecosystem: Daily individual and team missions encourage repeat engagement, with volume-based rewards and team milestone unlocks. Flash Arena: Short-dated options trading powers daily reward multipliers and jackpot-style shooting mechanics, including access to the Private Island reward opportunity. Block Arena: High-balance and block-trade participants can unlock fee rebates and luxury reward opportunities. Expansion Arena: Referral mechanics reward both community growth and successful invitations of higher-value traders. In addition to the Private Island headline reward, this year’s prize pool includes a range of premium rewards such as a Rolex Watch, Apple Vision Pro, NVIDIA Stock, Luxury Turkey Trip, Ledger Stax, Gentle Monster Sunglasses, Razer Keyboard, SOL spot rewards, trading fee coupons, and daily USDC prize pools.
The Island invites participants into a dynamic retail trading competition that combines strategic trading with team-based participation and a tiered reward structure. With every trade, participants move closer to exclusive rewards, from daily USDC prizes to the Private Island headline jackpot. The event begins today.
About Deribit
Deribit by Coinbase is a centralized, institutional-grade provider of crypto derivatives ecosystem, specializing in Bitcoin and Ethereum options and futures. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, Deribit offers instantaneous price discovery, low-latency execution, advanced risk mitigation tools, and deep liquidity through a network of top-tier market makers. Deribit facilitates the majority of global crypto options volume and upholds rigorous proof-of-reserves practices to maintain the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
About SignalPlus
Signalplus provides trading software and infrastructure for crypto derivatives, helping professional and sophisticated retail traders access options, futures, and spot markets with advanced execution and analytics tools. SignalPlus delivers a comprehensive options trading suite tailored for crypto derivatives traders.
According to official announcements, the 2026 trading competition "Island Project", jointly hosted by Deribit and SignalPlus, has officially launched. The event offers a maximum total prize pool of 600,000 USDC, marking the first time a private island is set as the grand prize. Multiple winning tracks are open, including daily trading, block trading, and referral rewards, allowing participants to start competing for rewards immediately. Key highlights of the competition: 1. Registration: All participants can claim a free option. 2. Balance: Users maintaining a balance of ≥0.1 USDC will enter a draw for a 600 USDC action camera. 3. Block Trading: Block trading fees are reduced by 30%–50%, and an additional draw for a 2,000 USDC luxury trip will be held post-event. 4. Trading: All daily traders win rewards, plus a draw for a 60,000 USDC private island in Finland. 5. Referral: Referring friends guarantees rewards, and an additional draw for a 30,000 USDC private island in Canada will be held post-event. The competition runs from July 6 to August 11 (UTC+8, deadline at 7:59). For registration details, please refer to the official announcement.
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Jiang Zhuoer: Strategy’s approved 20,000 BTC for sale will likely be fully sold.
Jiang Zhuoer, founder of BTC mining pool BTC.TOP, posted that U.S. crypto asset firm Strategy has sold 3,588 BTC for $216 million. This marks Strategy’s first large-scale BTC sell-off, carried out despite holding $2.55 billion in cash reserves — enough to cover 17.6 months of interest payments — and voluntarily selling more BTC than required to meet its interest obligations. This move signals the breakdown of Strategy’s long-held "never sell BTC" narrative. Jiang said he does not understand the reason behind Strategy’s current large-scale sell-off, noting that even if it lacks U.S. dollars, it could continue raising funds by issuing additional common stock. While this would reduce BTC holdings per share, he argues that preserving the "never sell" narrative and related beliefs is far more important than per-share BTC metrics. If Strategy fails to repurchase BTC at lower prices after the sell-off, it will also lead to a decline in per-share BTC holdings. Jiang added that Strategy’s willingness to bear this cost can only be interpreted as its preparation to conduct significant BTC swing trading. Jiang further stated that the 20,000 BTC already approved by Strategy’s board will almost certainly be sold in full. He believes that during the upcoming bull market phase, the market may witness a sell-off by an entity holding hundreds of thousands of BTC.
7 minutes ago
American Bitcoin adds 500 BTC to its holdings, bringing its total BTC holdings to 8,000.
Bitcoin mining firm American Bitcoin, backed by the Trump family, has increased its holdings by 500 BTC, bringing its total position to 8,000 BTC.
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Dell’s stock surges more than 8% after Trump’s public crypto endorsement
According to market data from BIT (bit.com), Dell’s stock has risen more than 8%, currently trading at $427.26. In an earlier report, US President Donald Trump publicly said, "Go buy a Dell computer," once again endorsing Dell. Regarding Dell’s previous donation to the "Trump account," Trump stated, "We will find a way to get that money back."
7 minutes ago
Trump responds to whether the "Trump account" includes Bitcoin: "It might happen."
According to Reuters, when asked whether the "Trump account" might hold Bitcoin, Trump stated: "It could happen."
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Trump: Early investment is key, and the stock market will soar.
Trump said that thanks to the Trump Account, newborns today will hold a massive financial advantage by the time they turn 18. While promoting the account’s launch ceremony, he heavily touted early investment as a means to build long-term wealth, noting that the Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 have all risen recently. “I think the market will skyrocket,” he said, urging families to keep investing rather than cashing out. (Jinshi)
7 minutes ago
Viewpoint: Strategy’s BTC sale helps restore market confidence in STRC and mitigate short-term tail risks for Bitcoin
Grayscale Research Head Zach Pandl published a note stating that in his view, Strategy’s sale of Bitcoin is a necessary move to restore market confidence in STRC and its overall structure. Last week’s partial Bitcoin sale by Strategy further reduced short-term tail risks for Bitcoin, and STRC is expected to continue performing well going forward. As previously reported, Strategy sold 3,588 Bitcoin last week, generating $216 million in proceeds to pay dividends on its digital credit securities. As of July 5, the company’s Bitcoin reserves stood at 843,775 coins, alongside $2.55 billion in U.S. dollar reserves.
This is a general announcement. Products and services referred to here may not be available in your region. Fellow Binancians, Nine years ago, Binance launched with a mission to increase the freedom of money for people around the world. Today, we’re celebrating that journey with you - the community that made it all possible. To mark our 9th Anniversary, we’re launching a community-wide celebration across Binance Discord, Binance WhatsApp, and the Binance Angels X account. Nine days. Nine challenges. One shared milestone. Complete the challenges, show your Binance spirit, and earn your share of 7,000 USDC token vouchers in rewards! Activity Period: 2026-07-06 12:00 (UTC) to 2026-07-15 23:59 (UTC) Binance Discord Challenge: 4,000 USDC Prize Pool Our biggest community celebration starts on Discord. Over 9 days, we’re running a series of daily challenges inside our dedicated anniversary channels. Complete more challenges, unlock a bigger share of the rewards. How to Participate: Join the Binance Discord server and complete the daily challenges that will be shared in this channel.Submit your entry in this channel using the corresponding hashtag for each day. Reward Structure: During the Activity Period, eligible participants who fulfil the aforementioned criteria and can share the prize pool, according to the number of challenge(s) completed: Complete all 9 challenges: Share 2,000 USDC prize poolComplete 5 to 8 challenges: Share 1,200 USDC prize poolComplete 1 to 4 challenges: Share 800 USDC prize pool Binance WhatsApp Challenge: 2,000 USDC Prize Pool The celebration extends to our WhatsApp community. Follow the Binance WhatsApp channel daily, complete the corresponding Binance Survey for each challenge, and earn your share of the prize pool. How to Participate: Follow the Binance WhatsApp channel for all daily challengesComplete the daily challenges and submit the Binance Survey that will be attached in each daily post. Reward Structure: During the Activity Period, eligible participants who fulfil the aforementioned criteria and can share the prize pool, according to the number of challenge(s) completed: Complete 5 to 9 challenges: Share 1,200 USDC prize poolComplete 1 to 4 challenges: Share 800 USDC prize pool Binance Angels X Challenge: 1,000 USDC Prize Pool Binance was built by its community - country by country, city by city, person by person. To celebrate our 9th Anniversary, we’re inviting users around the world to share their Binance story on X. Show us where you are, when your journey with Binance started, and let’s mark this milestone together. How to Participate: During the Activity Period, complete the following steps and create a post on X with the following details to be eligible: Follow and tag the Binance Angels X account (@BinanceAngels);Use the hashtag #BinanceTurns9;Share a photo of yourself in your city or country;Share in which year you first started using Binance;Complete the submission survey via the official link on Binance Angels X account. Reward Structure The best 50 entries will share a prize pool of 1,000 USDC in token vouchers (20 USDC per winner). Winners will be selected based on creativity, authenticity, and Binance brand relevance, at Binance’s discretion. Terms & Conditions: These terms and conditions (“Promotion Terms”) govern users’ participation in the promotion above (“Promotion”). By participating in this Promotion, users agree to these Promotion Terms, and the following additional terms: (a) Binance Terms and Conditions for Prize Promotions; (b) Binance Terms of Use; and (c) Binance Privacy Notice; all of which are incorporated by reference into these terms and conditions. In the case of any inconsistency or conflict between these Promotion Terms, and any other incorporated terms, the provisions of these Promotion Terms shall prevail, followed by the following in this order of precedence, and to the extent of such conflict: (a) Binance Terms and Conditions for Prize Promotions; (b) Binance Terms of Use; and (c) Binance Privacy Notice.Only users who complete identity verification during the Activity Period can qualify for rewards in the Promotion. The products or features referred to above may not be available in your region. Users are responsible for informing themselves about and observing any restrictions and/or requirements imposed with respect to the access to and use of Binance services in each country from which the services are accessed.Products and promotions may not be available in certain countries and to certain users. Content you see should not be construed as solicitation or advice to use any Binance feature. This content is not intended for users to which restrictions apply. You are responsible for informing yourself about and observing any restrictions and/or requirements imposed with respect to the access to and use of Binance services in each country. Applicable restrictions will be applied to all landing pages in links included in our informational messages.Users in the following countries could participate in the Campaign but they are restricted to be among the winners list: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain (.com), Belgium, Benin, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Canada, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Crimea region (and any non-government controlled areas of Ukraine), Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Ecuador, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands (British Overseas Territory), Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Gibraltar (British Overseas Territory), Great Britain (United Kingdom; England) Falcon Retail, Great Britain (United Kingdom; England) Titan Pro, Greece, Guernsey (Crown Dependency), Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Hong Kong, Hungary, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Isle of Man (Crown Dependency), Israel, Japan, Japan (Local Exchange), Jersey (Crown Dependency), Jordan, Kenya, Kosovo, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Mauritania, Mauritius, Moldova, Monaco, Montserrat (British Overseas Territory), Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Norway, Oman, Palestinian territories, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Somalia, South Africa, South Korea, South Sudan, Sudan, Sweden, Tanzania, Thailand (.com), Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkey (Local Exchange), Uganda, United Arab Emirates (Dubai Local Exchange "FZE"), United States, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe.Rewards will be distributed in 1 month after the campaign ends.Users will be able to login and redeem their token voucher rewards via Profile > Rewards Hub. 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According to monitoring by OnchainLens, the smart money address 0x15a, which has been dormant for several months, deposited $1 million USDC into Hyperliquid and opened a 40x leveraged long position of 200 BTC, with the position valued at roughly $12.58 million. The address’s last on-chain activity occurred in March this year, and its historical cumulative profit from perpetual contracts stands at approximately $2.28 million.
Relevant content
Jiang Zhuoer: Strategy’s approved 20,000 BTC for sale will likely be fully sold.
Jiang Zhuoer, founder of BTC mining pool BTC.TOP, posted that U.S. crypto asset firm Strategy has sold 3,588 BTC for $216 million. This marks Strategy’s first large-scale BTC sell-off, carried out despite holding $2.55 billion in cash reserves — enough to cover 17.6 months of interest payments — and voluntarily selling more BTC than required to meet its interest obligations. This move signals the breakdown of Strategy’s long-held "never sell BTC" narrative. Jiang said he does not understand the reason behind Strategy’s current large-scale sell-off, noting that even if it lacks U.S. dollars, it could continue raising funds by issuing additional common stock. While this would reduce BTC holdings per share, he argues that preserving the "never sell" narrative and related beliefs is far more important than per-share BTC metrics. If Strategy fails to repurchase BTC at lower prices after the sell-off, it will also lead to a decline in per-share BTC holdings. Jiang added that Strategy’s willingness to bear this cost can only be interpreted as its preparation to conduct significant BTC swing trading. Jiang further stated that the 20,000 BTC already approved by Strategy’s board will almost certainly be sold in full. He believes that during the upcoming bull market phase, the market may witness a sell-off by an entity holding hundreds of thousands of BTC.
7 minutes ago
American Bitcoin adds 500 BTC to its holdings, bringing its total BTC holdings to 8,000.
Bitcoin mining firm American Bitcoin, backed by the Trump family, has increased its holdings by 500 BTC, bringing its total position to 8,000 BTC.
7 minutes ago
Dell’s stock surges more than 8% after Trump’s public crypto endorsement
According to market data from BIT (bit.com), Dell’s stock has risen more than 8%, currently trading at $427.26. In an earlier report, US President Donald Trump publicly said, "Go buy a Dell computer," once again endorsing Dell. Regarding Dell’s previous donation to the "Trump account," Trump stated, "We will find a way to get that money back."
7 minutes ago
Trump responds to whether the "Trump account" includes Bitcoin: "It might happen."
According to Reuters, when asked whether the "Trump account" might hold Bitcoin, Trump stated: "It could happen."
7 minutes ago
Trump: Early investment is key, and the stock market will soar.
Trump said that thanks to the Trump Account, newborns today will hold a massive financial advantage by the time they turn 18. While promoting the account’s launch ceremony, he heavily touted early investment as a means to build long-term wealth, noting that the Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 have all risen recently. “I think the market will skyrocket,” he said, urging families to keep investing rather than cashing out. (Jinshi)
7 minutes ago
Viewpoint: Strategy’s BTC sale helps restore market confidence in STRC and mitigate short-term tail risks for Bitcoin
Grayscale Research Head Zach Pandl published a note stating that in his view, Strategy’s sale of Bitcoin is a necessary move to restore market confidence in STRC and its overall structure. Last week’s partial Bitcoin sale by Strategy further reduced short-term tail risks for Bitcoin, and STRC is expected to continue performing well going forward. As previously reported, Strategy sold 3,588 Bitcoin last week, generating $216 million in proceeds to pay dividends on its digital credit securities. As of July 5, the company’s Bitcoin reserves stood at 843,775 coins, alongside $2.55 billion in U.S. dollar reserves.
Circle (NYSE: CRCL) stock price is rising amid Circle’s USDC stablecoin recording $1.2 trillion in adjusted trading volumes in June 2026, with this being two times higher than the $573 billion in trading volumes posted by Tether’s USDT.
CRCL stock price gained by 4% on July 2 to close trading at $64. Circle shares are also up by 3.4% in pre-market trading today, July 6, to trade at $66 at the time of writing.
Circle’s USDC Dominates 67% Share of Stablecoin Trading Volumes Grayscale’s head of research, Zach Pundl, notes that there was $1.78 trillion in stablecoin volumes in June 2026. Pundl notes that these are the highest volumes that stablecoins have seen in history.
USDC accounted for 67% of these volume numbers seen in June, with data from Visa showing that $1.21 trillion in USDC transactions occurred during the month.
CRCL Stock Price While the $1.21 trillion by USDC was higher than the $573 billion recorded by its biggest rival, USDT, the latter had the highest transaction count of 145 million compared to the 57 million transactions posted by USDC.
USDC’s dominance in stablecoin trading volumes comes after CRCL stock price dropped on June 30 after the launch of the OUSD stablecoin that sparked fears of Circle losing its market share.
However, the bearish headwinds around CRCL stock following the launch of OUSD are easing after questions emerged about Open Standard’s claim of having 140 partners after Samsung and Dunamu, which were previously named as partners, distanced themselves from the project.
CRCL Stock Bounces From Multi-Month Support as Bulls Target $71 Circle shares dropped to the support of $62 on June 30 after the price created its biggest red candle since March 2026 due to sellers flocking the market after CRCL was removed from several Russell indexes.
CRCL has since bounced off this support of $62, and it had reached $66 at the time of writing.
But CRCL stock needs to move above the middle Bollinger band of $71 to confirm that bulls have a good grip.
The RSI reading of 36 also suggests that the momentum is still favoring bears despite the recent gain from $62 on June 30 to $66 on July 6.
CRCL Stock Price (Source: TradingView) This crypto stock could move past the obstacle at $71 if buying pressure rises. If these buyers also push the RSI reading above 50, the stock could reach the upper Bollinger band of $83.
Circle Stock Sustains Gains Despite Jefferies Warning Jefferies sent a note to investors on July 2 advising them against buying CRCL stock because the new OUSD stablecoin could weaken Circle’s share in the stablecoin market.
However, the price of CRCL stock has risen from $63 on July 2 to $66 today, July 6, despite the Jefferies’ warning.
ARK Invest also purchased $17.8 million worth of Circle shares on the same day that Jefferies warned that the stock might drop.
However, USDC’s market cap has dropped from $73.75 billion on June 30 to $72.87 billion, suggesting that a slight rotation happened after OUSD’s launch.
The stablecoin market lost 1.9 billion dollars in one week, despite a capitalization still exceeding 311 billion. The decline remains limited in percentage, but it shows that the liquidity available in crypto is contracting slightly. Tether weighs the most in this drop, while Sky Dollar records the sharpest fall among the major stablecoins.
In brief The stablecoin market lost 1.9 billion dollars in one week. USDT accounts for 41% of the total decline. PYUSD grows despite the sector’s overall decline. Stablecoin: a moderate but visible decline The stablecoin market shows a total capitalization of 311.311 billion dollars. Over seven days, this represents a decline of 0.61%, or about 1.911 billion dollars withdrawn. This movement follows several months where stablecoins had rather served as a refuge in an unstable crypto market.
The drop is not a collapse. It remains low compared to the fluctuations observed on bitcoin, ether, or altcoins. But it deserves attention because the stablecoin supply often acts as a gauge of the available liquidity.
When stablecoin capitalization increases, it may signal the arrival of new dollars in the ecosystem. When it falls, it may indicate redemptions, capital outflows, or a rotation towards other financial products.
Tether’s USDT lost 791 million dollars over the week. Alone, this decline represents about 41% of the total stablecoin market drop. This is explained by its size: with 184.112 billion dollars capitalization, USDT still largely dominates the sector. Its market share reaches 59.14%. Therefore, Tether’s stablecoin remains the main settlement tool on crypto platforms. Even a limited drop of 0.43% moves several hundreds of million dollars.
Circle’s USDC also declines. Its capitalization reaches 73.098 billion dollars after a 1.05% drop over seven days. Together, USDT and USDC still represent more than 82% of the top 15 capitalization. This duopoly offers a clear market reading. When the two largest stablecoins fall simultaneously, the contraction does not come from a single isolated issuer. It affects the core of crypto liquidity.
Sky Dollar leads the decline of the stablecoin market Sky Dollar, or USDS, records the largest weekly drop among the top fifteen stablecoins. Its capitalization falls by 2.36%, to around 8.02 billion dollars. The decline remains contained, but it contrasts with the stronger dynamics recently shown by some competitors.
World Liberty Financial USD1 also declines by 1.77%, to 4.61 billion dollars. Global Dollar loses 1.19%, while Ethena USD slips 0.49%. Thus, the pressure focuses mainly on several mid-tier stablecoins. DAI resists better, gaining slightly 0.09% to 4.851 billion dollars. This gain is too small to change the market balance, but it shows that not all stable assets follow exactly the same trajectory.
PayPal’s PYUSD stands out in the opposite direction. Its capitalization grows by 4.25%, to 2.836 billion dollars. This increase confirms that some payment players continue to attract capital in the stablecoin sector despite the general retreat.
A liquidity signal to watch The 1.9 billion drop is not enough to announce a massive exit from the crypto market. The stablecoin sector remains close to its recent range, between 300 and 315 billion dollars. The movement looks more like an adjustment than a sudden flight.
However, the trend must be monitored over several weeks. A lasting contraction would reduce the dry powder available to buy digital assets. Traders often use stablecoins as a waiting reserve before returning to bitcoin, ether, or riskier tokens.
The stablecoin market is also changing in nature. Alongside settlement tokens like USDT and USDC, new products seek to offer yield or exposure to tokenized Treasury bills. Circle USYC, BlackRock BUIDL, and Ondo USDY show that the boundary between stablecoin, money market fund, and tokenized asset is becoming finer.
This transformation can attract more stable capital, but it can also fragment the market. Users no longer just seek a liquid digital dollar. Some want yield, others prioritize compliance, speed, or payment access. That is why the current decline must be read with nuance. The stablecoin market contracts this week, but it remains at the center of crypto usage, notably in cross-border payments.
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Evans S.
Fascinated by Bitcoin since 2017, Evariste has continuously researched the subject. While his initial interest was in trading, he now actively seeks to understand all advances centered on cryptocurrencies. As an editor, he strives to consistently deliver high-quality work that reflects the state of the sector as a whole.
DISCLAIMER
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and should not be taken as investment advice. Do your own research before taking any investment decisions.
