If you wanted to build a toll booth on Solana, Jito already beat you to it. The protocol, which operates at the intersection of liquid staking and maximal extractable value infrastructure, has cemented itself as the closest thing Solana has to a monopoly on validator-level revenue capture.
As of early July 2026, Jito’s governance token JTO sits at a market cap of roughly $351 million, backed by a circulating supply of approximately 491 million tokens. Its MEV-optimized validator client is now running on more than 95% of Solana’s active stake, up from figures that sat between 60% and 94% in prior periods.
What Jito actually does, and why it prints money Think of Jito as a two-sided business. On one side, it runs JitoSOL, a liquid staking token that lets holders earn staking yields without locking up their SOL permanently. On the other side, it operates MEV infrastructure that allows validators to capture tips from traders who want their transactions prioritized.
JitoSOL currently holds around $2.92 billion in total value locked, with more than 14.5 million SOL staked through the protocol.
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October 2024 alone saw $78.9 million in MEV fees flow through the protocol. MEV fees have risen 42% as on-chain activity on Solana has accelerated through 2025 and into 2026.
Jito operates through two distinct entities: Jito Labs, the engineering and product arm, and the Jito Foundation and DAO, which governs the protocol and controls token-level decisions.
JTX: the new piece of the puzzle On June 26, 2026, Jito Labs launched early access to JTX, a self-custodial trading terminal built on top of Solana’s decentralized exchange ecosystem. The product is designed to improve liquidity routing across both spot DEX venues and perpetuals markets.
Approximately 80% of JTX protocol revenue is directed back to JTO holders through buybacks. Rather than accruing value to a foundation treasury or a VC cap table, the majority of trading fee revenue would actively reduce circulating supply, creating mechanical buy pressure on the token.
Jito already sits at the base layer of Solana’s validator infrastructure. Adding a trading terminal means it can now capture value at the application layer too.
What this means for investors and the broader Solana ecosystem Jito has outpaced competitors like Marinade in both the staking and MEV markets. The 95%-plus validator adoption figure means that when block producers on Solana choose how to order transactions, the overwhelming majority are using Jito’s tooling to do it.
For JTO holders, the current setup offers a few distinct value drivers. Staking yields flow through JitoSOL and benefit from MEV tip capture on top of base staking rewards. The JTX buyback mechanism creates a direct connection between trading volume growth and token supply reduction.
Jito’s revenue is deeply tied to Solana network activity and MEV opportunity. A sustained drop in on-chain trading volume would compress fee flows quickly. Regulatory scrutiny on MEV practices, which has already begun in Ethereum circles, could eventually extend to Solana as well.
A $351 million market cap against a protocol that handles $2.92 billion in staked assets and captured nearly $79 million in MEV fees in a single month is a ratio worth examining.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Kylian Mbappé just became the highest-scoring player against South American teams in World Cup history. Naturally, degens on Solana are treating this like a buy signal.
The French forward netted a penalty against Paraguay on July 4, bringing his career tally against South American opponents to seven World Cup goals. That breaks a record that spans nearly a century of tournament play, and it’s driving a predictable, if slightly absurd, spike in trading activity around unofficial meme tokens that reference his name.
The record in context Mbappé’s seven goals against South American sides didn’t happen overnight. Five of them came against Argentina across the 2018 and 2022 tournaments, including that legendary hat trick in the 2022 final that nearly rewrote history. The remaining two came against Peru and Paraguay in the current 2026 cycle.
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The man has 19 goals in 19 World Cup appearances. He also holds the record for most knockout-stage goals, with at least 10 to his name. For a player competing in only his third World Cup, that’s a stat line most strikers wouldn’t achieve across five tournaments.
Mbappé currently sits tied with Lionel Messi at seven goals in the 2026 tournament alone. The two are locked in a parallel duel for individual supremacy even as their teams navigate the knockout bracket on separate sides.
Meme tokens ride the momentum In the crypto corner of this story, unofficial Solana-based meme tokens associated with Mbappé’s name have seen renewed trading interest. This mirrors what happened during the 2022 World Cup, when Mbappé’s hat trick against Argentina in the final sent trading volumes on various athlete-themed tokens into overdrive.
Let’s be clear about what these tokens actually are. They’re unofficial. They have no endorsement from Mbappé, no connection to Real Madrid, and no underlying utility beyond speculation. Their value is entirely a function of attention, which is the most volatile commodity in crypto.
Volumes tend to spike immediately after a high-profile goal or record-breaking moment, then decay rapidly as the news cycle moves on. Anyone buying the peak of a post-goal pump is essentially betting that someone else will pay even more for the same hype. When the tournament ends, or when Mbappé has a quiet game, the attention evaporates and so does the liquidity.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Ethereum’s net supply increased by 83,550 ETH over the past 30 days.
According to data from Ultrasound.money, Ethereum's net supply has increased by 83,550 ETH over the past 30 days, bringing its total supply to 121,838,278 ETH, with the current annual supply growth rate standing at 0.835%.
3 hours ago
AI capital expenditure is projected to reach $1.1 trillion by 2027, potentially surpassing U.S. defense spending for the first time.
The Kobeissi Letter stated in a post that the AI spending boom is reshaping the U.S. economy. AI capital expenditures by Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and Oracle are projected to rise to roughly 3.2% of U.S. GDP by 2027. If the forecast holds, annual AI capital spending will for the first time exceed U.S. defense outlays, which are expected to account for around 2.7% of GDP next year. For this year alone, the group’s AI capital spending is forecast to jump from 1.5% of GDP in 2025 to roughly 2.5%, nearly matching the 2.7% share of GDP allocated to defense spending. The five firms’ combined AI capital expenditures are projected to top $800 billion in 2026, then climb to a record $1.1 trillion in 2027. These figures are "staggering".
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US and South Korean stocks Monday price preview: Micron Technology is forecast to rise more than 6% in pre-market trading, while Samsung Electronics is expected to open 4% higher.
Due to the U.S. Independence Day holiday (July 3), U.S. stock markets were closed last Friday, paired with the regular weekend closure. "On-chain Nasdaq" Trade.xyz enables continuous trading and real-time price discovery unavailable in traditional finance via perpetual contracts, pricing in advance for Monday’s U.S. and South Korean stock sessions. Top U.S. stock tickers on Trade.xyz showed mixed moves compared to Thursday’s after-hours trading, and are expected to consolidate with minor fluctuations ahead of Monday’s pre-market. Weekend performance details: Micron (MU) is currently at $1038.71, versus $976.63 in U.S. Thursday after-hours trading; SanDisk (SNDK) at $1856.65, versus $1762.011 Thursday after-hours; NVIDIA at $197.83, versus $194.44 Thursday after-hours; Intel at $124.2, versus $121 Thursday after-hours; Google at $360.06, versus $359.91 Thursday after-hours; AMD at $537.34, versus $519.5 Thursday after-hours; SpaceX at $161.27, versus $160.95 Thursday after-hours. For top South Korean stock tickers on Trade.xyz, their weekend performance is as follows: Samsung Electronics is currently at $210.49, versus $202.35 at Friday’s close; SK Hynix is at $1623.16, versus $1585 at Friday’s close.
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SK Hynix seeks to attract more AI investors via its US listing.
SK Hynix’s upcoming $29 billion U.S. stock market listing could be the largest initial public offering (IPO) by a foreign company in history, but the move is not just about raising capital. More importantly, the firm aims to compete in the hottest segment of global stock markets right now: memory chips for AI computing. Daniel Morgan, senior portfolio manager at Synovus Trust (which holds Micron stock), said the market is in a period of extreme hype for chip stocks, and now is a good time to bring U.S. investors on board for its shares. Zhou Di, portfolio manager at Thornburg Investment Management (which holds SK Hynix stock), noted that the offering targets investors who currently cannot access South Korea’s stock market. SK Hynix’s Nasdaq listing gives investors direct, frictionless access to one of the most attractive pure-play assets in the AI memory cycle. (Jin Shi)
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Ming-Chi Kuo: Foldable iPhone may repeat the iPhone X playbook, launching later and facing supply constraints through the end of the year.
TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo stated in a note that the foldable iPhone could repeat the iPhone X playbook: it will be unveiled alongside other models, but pre-orders and official launch will be delayed, and supply shortages may persist through the end of 2026. Based on third-quarter 2026 production volumes, the foldable iPhone is likely to mirror the 2017 iPhone X. That year, the iPhone X was unveiled alongside the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus on September 12, but due to insufficient stock, pre-orders were pushed back to October 27 and official sales to November 3. Given the foldable iPhone’s limited third-quarter shipments, it may also open pre-orders and official sales only in the fourth quarter of 2026. After discussions with telecom operators, sales channels, and resellers/parallel import agents, Kuo concluded that even if the foldable iPhone is priced at roughly $2,300 to $2,500, demand will remain strong at least through the end of 2026. This means the device could sell out rapidly once pre-orders open, with shipment wait times potentially jumping to 4 to 6 weeks or longer, extending into December. He added that the foldable iPhone’s initial limited supply, distinct design, and innovative user experience could drive up short-term resale prices, with resale prices 50% to 100% higher than the official retail price not being out of the question.
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Analysis: Powell’s tight-lipped approach makes the Fed’s June meeting minutes even more important.
George Goncalves, Head of US Macro Strategy at MUFG Securities Americas, noted that Waller’s concise communication style makes the June Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting minutes carry more weight than usual, offering valuable insight into the differing stances among Fed officials. “The meeting minutes will become even more important because, up to now, we don’t know what the Fed is thinking,” Goncalves said. “It will be very instructive to see how they debate and what they prioritize.” He added that some investors have questioned Waller’s “hands-off” approach, with many calling for a return to greater transparency. Many market participants are unaccustomed to reduced information flow, and there remains considerable skepticism over how long the Fed can maintain this stance. For now, we can only read between the lines. (Source: Jinshi)
Space Exploration Technologies (SPCX +2.69%) is testing how much investors are willing to pay for a company that controls valuable space infrastructure.
SpaceX currently trades at a very rich valuation of nearly 82 times trailing 12-month sales. The stock's sharp rise after the IPO, followed by a pullback, suggests investors are still trying to decide how much of SpaceX's long-term opportunity is already reflected in its valuation.
Image source: Getty Images.
Starlink and Starship are the key growth catalysts Starlink satellite internet is the clearest reason for SpaceX's premium valuation. The company's connectivity business, driven mainly by Starlink, generated $11.4 billion in revenue and $4.4 billion in operating income in 2025. Starlink also had about 10.3 million users across 9,600 satellites at the end of the first quarter of 2026. Unlike launch sales, which can be lumpy, Starlink gives SpaceX a profitable recurring revenue engine, global reach, and a direct customer relationship.
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SpaceX's next-generation reusable rocket system, Starship, is expected to carry 100 metric tons to orbit. This will give the company far greater capacity to launch larger Starlink satellites, expanding the network faster and at lower cost. The larger next-generation Starlink satellites are designed to support more than 10 times the internet download capacity of the smaller V2 satellites SpaceX currently launches on its Falcon 9 rocket system.
What could $1,000 become by 2031? SpaceX is also spending heavily on artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. The company's AI business posted an operating loss of $6.4 billion, accounting for nearly 61% of its $20.7 billion in capital spending in 2025.
So, for SpaceX to justify its premium valuation, Starlink must keep growing, Starship must make satellite deployment cheaper, and AI infrastructure must eventually become profitable.
Since 2023, Nvidia's price-to-sales ratio has stayed mostly above 20 times. SpaceX is not Nvidia, but if investors keep viewing it as a leader in low-Earth-orbit connectivity and launch infrastructure, 18 to 25 times sales multiple could be a defensible five-year estimate.
Analysts expect SpaceX to generate about $224.8 billion of revenue in 2031. This may prove conservative, considering that CEO Elon Musk expects revenue to reach $1 trillion by 2031. Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley expect SpaceX's revenue to be $470 billion and $330 billion, respectively, in 2030.
If SpaceX reaches the 2031 revenue estimate and trades at around 11 times sales, its market capitalization would be around $2.47 trillion. This cautious valuation is close to Rocket Lab's sales multiple at the end of 2023, before investor enthusiasm for vertically integrated space platforms pushed the stock much higher.
Based on roughly 13.1 billion shares outstanding, that would imply a share price near $188, turning a $1,000 investment at about $170.80 per share (as of June 30, 2026) into roughly $1,100. At 18 times sales, SpaceX would be valued at about $4.05 trillion, implying a share price near $307 and a $1,000 investment value of roughly $1,797. At 25 times sales, SpaceX would be worth about $5.62 trillion, implying a share price near $427 and a $1,000 investment value of roughly $2,499.
Hence, $1,000 invested in SpaceX today could grow to about $1,100 to $2,499, depending on whether investors apply a cautious premium valuation or a category-leader multiple.
A year ago, Alphabet (GOOG 0.48%)(GOOGL 0.23%) traded under $180 per share and carried a market value less than half of today's. As of this writing, the stock sits at about $360 -- a clean double in 12 months, achieved by a company that was already one of the largest in the world when the run began.
A move like that leaves two groups of investors uneasy: those who own the stock and wonder whether to take profits, and those who don't and wonder whether they missed it. With shares about 12% below their 52-week high after an early July wobble in artificial intelligence (AI) trades, the question is worth asking properly. Is it too late to buy?
Image source: Getty Images.
It's not just the stock that's soaring The important thing about Alphabet's run is that it wasn't only the stock that soared. The earnings power underneath it transformed, too.
In the first quarter of 2026, Alphabet's revenue rose 22% year over year to $109.9 billion -- the company's 11th consecutive quarter of double-digit growth. Profits came with one caveat: earnings per share soared 82%, but a large slice of that jump reflected unrealized investment gains rather than operations. The cleaner signal was operating income, which rose 30% as operating margin expanded 2 percentage points to 36.1%.
The main engine behind the stock's run, however, is Google Cloud.
"Google Cloud revenues grew 63% with backlog nearly doubling quarter on quarter to over $460 billion," said CEO Sundar Pichai in the company's first-quarter earnings release.
A backlog isn't guaranteed revenue, and converting it will take years. But it gives Alphabet's growth a visibility few businesses this size can claim -- customers have effectively reserved hundreds of billions of dollars of cloud computing and AI infrastructure work in advance.
The quarter also showed a strong consumer business. Alphabet said paid subscriptions, led by YouTube and Google One, have reached 350 million -- and management called it the company's strongest quarter ever for its consumer AI plans.
And the core business has seen impressive momentum, too. Google Search and other revenue grew 19% last quarter, quieting the fear that hung over the stock through 2025 -- that AI chatbots would erode search advertising. So far, the opposite appears true, with search usage climbing alongside the new AI features.
Is there still room? A doubled stock naturally raises the suspicion that the price ran ahead of the business. The numbers, however, suggest something more balanced is happening. At about 26 times forward earnings, Alphabet trades near the valuation multiples many slower-growing defensive names command -- while compounding revenue at a 20%-plus rate. That isn't cheap in absolute terms, because nothing growing this fast is. But it's far from the valuations attached to the market's more speculative AI names.
Still, buyers today should keep three risks in view.
First, the growth requires staggering investment. Alphabet has lifted its planned 2026 capital spending to as much as $190 billion, and management expects the figure to rise significantly again in 2027. Returns on that capital could take years to prove out.
Second, the bar is high. After cloud revenue accelerated significantly in Q1 to an impressive 63% year-over-year rate, investors will likely expect further acceleration throughout the year. And the same cloud backlog that gives investors visibility also means they have high expectations.
Third, a stock that doubles in a year can retrace sharply on sentiment alone. Alphabet's own 12% slide from its high in recent weeks is a mild preview of what a broader AI-spending scare could do.
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So, is it too late?
I don't think so -- with an adjustment to expectations. The next double will almost certainly take far longer than 12 months, because the market has already repriced Alphabet from doubted search company to AI infrastructure leader. What remains is the slower, steadier compounding of a dominant business still growing faster than almost anything else its size.
For investors who watched the run from the sidelines, Alphabet, at 26 times forward earnings with accelerating growth, arguably beats most defensive names trading at similar multiples with single-digit growth. Starting a position here and building it gradually -- in case the AI trade's summer volatility offers better prices -- still looks reasonable for a long-term portfolio. The stock's rerating is likely over. But the compounding probably isn't.
Many energy stocks rallied this year as the Middle East conflict drove up oil prices and the power-hungry cloud and AI markets gobbled up massive amounts of power. However, one former market darling that didn't participate in that rally was Vistra (VST 1.44%), the top power generation and retail electricity provider in the United States.
Vistra's stock has declined about 6% year to date and nearly 20% over the past 12 months. Let's see why many investors shunned Vistra -- and why it might be a compelling buy.
Image source: Getty Images.
Why did Vistra's rally end? Vistra owns a wide range of natural gas, nuclear, coal, solar, and battery energy storage facilities. Its retail subsidiaries -- including TXU Energy, Dynegy, Homefield Energy, Ambit, and other regional leaders -- sell electricity to roughly five million customers.
Vistra's stock hit an all-time high of $217.02 on Sept. 22, 2025. That marked a 556% gain over its previous two years. At the time, the AI market's explosive growth generated strong tailwinds for its electrification business, and it was rerated as an AI infrastructure stock.
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But as of this writing, Vistra's stock trades at about $150. Two challenges weighed down its stock. First, PJM Interconnection, which manages the power grid across the Mid-Atlantic and parts of the Midwest, proposed new rules to cap electricity capacity prices. Second, Vistra decided to shut down a major portion of its Moss Landing battery storage facility, which suffered a series of fires in early 2025, rather than recommission the damaged plants.
Why is Vistra still a reliable long-term investment? Those headwinds made Vistra less appealing, but it's weathered plenty of regulatory challenges and plant outages (including the Texas winter storm of 2021) since its 2017 IPO. It's also still locked into major data center deals with Meta (META 4.80%) and Amazon (AMZN +0.55%).
From 2025 to 2028, analysts still expect its revenue and adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) to grow at CAGRs of 15% and 16%, respectively. With an enterprise value of $70.7 billion, Vistra trades at just three times this year's revenue and ten times this year's adjusted EBITDA.
Those lower valuations indicate it's shed the "AI premium" it gained after striking multi-billion dollar deals with Meta and Amazon, but that makes it an even more compelling buy today. Its forward yield of 0.6% might seem paltry, but its low payout ratio of 15% gives it plenty of room for future dividend hikes. It's also bought back 30% of its shares over the past five years. Therefore, if you're looking for a reliable energy stock that gives you plenty of exposure to the booming AI market, Vistra checks all the right boxes.
Leo Sun has positions in Amazon and Meta Platforms. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon, Meta Platforms, and Vistra. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
These may be the last days of Amazon’s Mechanical Turk.
An announcement on the Mechanical Turk website says that on July 30, 2026, the crowdsourcing service will close to new customers. Amazon Web Services says the decision was made after “careful consideration,” adding, “Existing customers can continue to use the service as normal. AWS continues to invest in security and availability improvements for Mechanical Turk, but we do not plan to introduce new features.”
In other words, Amazon isn’t completely pulling the plug, but the service is very much on life support.
First launched in 2005, Mechanical Turk was a marketplace where people were paid tiny amounts to perform simple tasks that resisted full automation — things like completing CAPTCHA challenges or identifying the basic sentiment in a sentence.
In its heyday, the service was at the center of debates around the ethics of crowdsourced labor, and it even played a small role in the early stages of the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal.
Beginning in 2018, Amazon also began billing it as a way for companies to annotate data to train neural networks as part of its SageMaker AI service.
Less overtly, Mechanical Turk has also been described as the hidden enabler for companies taking a fake-it-till-you-make-it approach to AI, where products marketed as Ai are actually being performed by the Mechanical Turk workforce — all the more fitting since the original Mechanical Turk was itself a hoax, with a hidden human chess player pretending to be a chess-playing machine
Over time, the relationship between Mechanical Turk and AI models grew even more complicated. In a snake-eating-its-own-tail irony, a 2023 analysis found that between 33% and 46% of workers on the platform were using large language models to complete their tasks, raising questions about the reliability of data annotated on the platform and also about whether humans needed to be in the loop at all.
This week, after Amazon’s decision became public, one Reddit user suggested the platform died “years ago,” with workers and researchers abandoning it due to bots and fraud. The user predicted, “Someone at Amazon is going to decide keeping the Mturk servers running is a waste of time and resources and pull the plug entirely.”
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Anthony Ha is TechCrunch’s weekend editor. Previously, he worked as a tech reporter at Adweek, a senior editor at VentureBeat, a local government reporter at the Hollister Free Lance, and vice president of content at a VC firm. He lives in New York City.
You can contact or verify outreach from Anthony by emailing [email protected].
A few days ago, Microsoft (MSFT +1.69%) stock dropped to a 52-week low of about $353. While the stock has rebounded from that level, it's still at a fairly low price point compared to where it has traded over the past year. For the latter half of 2025, Microsoft's stock was in the low- to mid-$500 range, giving investors a major investment opportunity if it can return to all-time highs in the near future.
If you're a long-term investor, I think Microsoft represents one of the most compelling investment opportunities in the entire market. It's well-positioned and cheaply priced, making it a no-brainer buy right now.
Image source: Getty Images.
Microsoft is now cheaper than the broader market Microsoft hardly needs an introduction as a business, as it's a sprawling company that is heavily involved in the tech world. The biggest focus the market has is its artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, which appears to be working out.
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Microsoft's strategy is two-fold. First, it's integrating AI tools into its existing business productivity software via Copilot. Second, it is operating a neutral cloud computing platform that offers multiple generative AI models to use in applications. Its AI business grew its annual recurring revenue at a 123% pace to $37 billion during its latest quarter, and its cloud computing division grew at a 40% pace. Both of those data points make it seem like Microsoft's AI strategy is working out exactly as planned, but the stock market isn't buying what Microsoft is selling.
With Microsoft's major downturn, it now trades for a cheap price tag from a forward earnings perspective.
MSFT PE Ratio (Forward) data by YCharts.
At 19.3 times forward earnings, it's cheaper than the S&P 500, which trades for 21.5. Microsoft has a great track record of strong execution and is growing at a faster-than-market pace, so this discount doesn't seem to make a ton of sense, and conveys that the stock is undervalued.
Another valuation metric I like to use when assessing AI hyperscalers like Microsoft compared to historical levels is the price-to-cash from operations ratio. This looks at how much cash Microsoft is generating and values it versus its market capitalization. From this standpoint, it has been nearly a decade since Microsoft was this cheap.
MSFT Price to CFO Per Share (TTM) data by YCharts.
That tells me that the market is drastically mispricing Microsoft's stock, and now is the perfect time to buy shares.
Keithen Drury has positions in Microsoft. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
It's been a strangely rough year for Microsoft (MSFT +1.69%) shareholders. Oh, it's not been a surprise. Most investors are now second-guessing the value of jaw-droppingly steep investments in artificial intelligence. As one of the proverbial poster children for the AI revolution, what was so bullish for this ticker beginning in 2023 turned into a liability late last year.
Indeed, shares of the software giant are now down more than 30% from their October peak. If there were ever a reversal brewing, though, this is it.
Still plenty of growth Don't misunderstand. The software giant's certainly got some challenges to deal with now.
For instance, its video gaming business is struggling, so much so that CEO Satya Nadella is reportedly even open to spinning out its Xbox unit into a stand-alone company. Its AI-powered chatbot, Copilot (the free version anyway), isn't gaining market share either. And for the fiscal year currently underway, the company expects to make a jaw-dropping $190 billion worth of capital expenditures, largely on artificial intelligence infrastructure. That's well up from analysts' initial projections and more than 60% above last year's capex.
Now, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Last quarter's top line was still up 18% (15% in constant currency) year over year, led by 30% growth in its intelligent cloud division, where its AI-facilitating Azure platform's results are reported. Productivity and business software sales improved 17% compared to year-earlier numbers. Operating income improved, too, up 20% to $38.4 billion.
And the foreseeable future looks just as bright. As CFO Amy Hood commented of its all-important Azure business in April's fiscal third-quarter earnings conference call, "broad and growing customer demand continues to exceed supply, and we continue to balance the incoming supply we can allocate here against our other high-ROI priorities," although the same could be said for most of its business lines. That's why the company guided for comparable growth for the quarter that ended in June, while analysts expect a repeat of the company's solid current-year results in the coming fiscal year, with more of the same in the cards further down the road.
Data source: Morningstar. Chart by author.
Unnecessary worry So why is the stock performing so poorly when it seemingly shouldn't be? In simplest terms, investors are just starting to question -- and understandably so -- if the company's bold growth outlook is believable enough to justify such heavy spending on AI.
This worry isn't unique to Microsoft, of course, although it's difficult to deny that this particular company has become something of a proxy for the entire AI industry. The technology giant is arguably more dependent on and more vulnerable to the ongoing proliferation of artificial intelligence than any other, after all, with more than one-third of its revenue directly or indirectly linked to AI. If its proliferation stops or even just slows, Microsoft could feel it more than most.
But that risk finally seems to be abating.
Image source: Getty Images.
While plenty of people are now questioning the practical value of increasingly expensive artificial intelligence, institutional demand for AI solutions hasn't waned one iota. The business may have reached an important tipping point, in fact. As number-crunching from industry research outfit Exponential View highlights, for a second quarter in a row (and for the first time ever), artificial intelligence revenue exceeded the reported depreciation of the equipment facilitating it. It's not the industry's only measure of fiscal viability, but it's an important one that's been nagging investors for a while now.
As for its part in the practical commercialization of AI, although Copilot may not be gaining market share against the likes of ChatGPT or Google's Gemini, Microsoft's more powerful paid version of Copilot, meant to work alongside its other business-oriented software offerings, now has over 20 million users, versus just 15 million paid seats just a quarter earlier. It's certainly something to build on.
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Spring-loaded recovery ready Investors still mostly don't see it, distracted by more than a few other worries at this time. That's why they've elected to let Microsoft shares continue sinking.
There will come a time when this company's resiliency and AI-driven growth become undeniable, though. It could happen as early next month, following the release of its fiscal fourth-quarter results, presuming the market is in a bullish mood at the time. If not then, though, any bearish overhang should be out of the way by the late-October or early-November release of its fiscal first-quarter numbers, dovetailing into the marketwide bullishness we typically see at the end of the year.
Whenever it happens, with the stock now down 30% from October's high, the rebound spring is coiled tightly. It's just waiting to be released. Waiting to step in until that happens, however, likely means you'll miss out on most of whatever early recovery gains are in the cards.
This might help: As it stands right now, over 80% of the analysts covering this stock rate Microsoft a strong buy, with a 12-month consensus price target of $559.02 that's 46% above the ticker's present price. That's not a bad way to start out a new trade.
If you're looking for some great buying opportunities, the market is fortunately providing a handful of them to smart investors. I think the best stocks to buy now are the ones that are beaten down for no reason and could easily turn around in the second half of 2026 as the market comes to its senses.
Three stocks that I think are smart buys now are Microsoft (MSFT +1.69%), Meta Platforms (META 4.80%), and Nvidia (NVDA 1.39%). All three of these stocks are trading at relatively low valuations yet have growth and prospects that could turn today's price into an absolute bargain.
Image source: Getty Images.
Microsoft Microsoft leads this list as it may be the most absurdly priced stock on this list. The company is a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, having close ties to OpenAI and growing its revenue at an 18% pace. With diluted earnings per share (EPS) growing at a 23% pace in its most recent quarter, you'd be right to assume that everything is going great for Microsoft. However, none of that has translated to any stock success.
MSFT PE Ratio (Forward) data by YCharts.
The stock is cheaply priced at 19.3 times forward earnings -- less than the S&P 500's forward multiple of 21.5. Deals like this on Microsoft's stock rarely come around, and a strong quarterly earnings result later in July could kick-start a rebound.
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390.79
Meta Platforms I could practically copy and paste Microsoft's results and market sentiment here, because they are eerily similar. However, they differ in one key area. Meta is actually growing quite rapidly, with revenue rising 33% year over year. This strength comes from Meta's advertising business, which comprises social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads. Meta has used various AI tools it has developed to boost ad conversions, allowing it to generate more revenue per ad because the ads are more successful.
However, that's about it for the effects of Meta's AI spending on the business. The main reason why the market isn't in love with Meta's stock is that it's spending hundreds of billions on AI data centers and doesn't have a true, monetizable product to show for it yet. While Microsoft has products like Copilot and cloud computing, Meta is devoting all its resources to its own internal AI research. Until we see products emerge from this division that can generate mountains of cash for Meta, the stock will likely stay at a cheap valuation (right now, it trades for 17.5 times forward earnings).
Today's Change
(
-4.80
%) $
-29.41
Current Price
$
583.50
The big product Meta is working on is its AI glasses, which aims to interact with the world around its users and contextualize what's going on, bringing AI from a computer screen into the real world. If Meta can accomplish that, it could have a major business. But until then, Meta will likely just be viewed as an advertising business.
Nvidia Last up is Nvidia, which isn't getting the respect it deserves. The stock trades for 22.3 times forward earnings, which is just barely more expensive than the S&P 500. However, the company is growing at a pace that most companies could only dream of achieving.
Massive AI computing demand has allowed Nvidia's revenue and profits to spike over the past few years, and nothing looks like it's going to be able to slow it down. This year, Wall Street analysts expect 82% revenue growth. Next year, they expect 41%. However, none of that phenomenal 41% growth has been priced into the stock, so it would trade like an average S&P 500 company if it stays flat until the end of the year.
Today's Change
(
-1.39
%) $
-2.75
Current Price
$
194.83
Nvidia is anything but an average company, and the growth it has put up over the past few years demonstrates that fact. As a result, I think Nvidia is a great buy now, as the market will likely rally behind Nvidia as we get closer to 2027 and data center capital expenditure plans are revealed.
It's never fun to see your investments lose money. And when a stock's price falls more than 10% in a month, it's normal to wonder if you should sell to lock in your gains before it falls any further.
That's something investors in Nvidia (NVDA 1.39%) need to seriously think about. Shares of the world's leading chipmaker dropped 12.6% between June 2 and July 2, and they're down 17% from May's all-time high of $235.74/share.
But this latest drop might not be such a bad thing, actually. Here's why investors shouldn't panic and why Nvidia's pullback might actually be good news.
Image source: Nvidia.
There have always been ebbs and flows with Nvidia stock Obviously, a pullback in a company's stock price offers new investors the opportunity to buy the dip. That's not the kind of "good news" I'm talking about here, although it's true that now might be a good moment to open a new position in the chipmaker if you don't already own shares.
Instead, I'm talking about the natural ebbs and flows of Nvidia's stock price. The company's road to being the largest company in the world with a $4.7 trillion market cap hasn't been a smooth one. In just the last five years, the stock has seen dizzying plunges multiple times.
Today's Change
(
-1.39
%) $
-2.75
Current Price
$
194.84
Between November 2021 and October 2022, Nvidia's share price plunged 66%. It recovered a bit, only to drop by more than 20% again in December 2022. The company went on to experience nine drops of 15% or more between July 2023 and March 2026, about three per year.
But over the last five years, the stock has risen by more than 851%. And if you had sold during any one of those previous 15% dips, you would have missed out on lots of gains.
The biggest of those gains came suddenly and after a prolonged downturn. For example, between October 2025 and March 2026, Nvidia's stock lost 20% of its value over five months. Then, without warning, shares surged 42.7% between March 30 and May 14, hitting all-time highs.
Image source: Getty Images.
A roller-coaster ride When a stock rockets upward and never experiences temporary pullbacks like Nvidia's has over the last five years, it can make new investors reluctant to buy shares out of concern that the stock is too expensive. And as the world's largest company by market cap, Nvidia already faces skepticism about its valuation.
It can also set the company up to experience a major share price drop if it reports anything less than stellar earnings. Nvidia doesn't seem to have that problem. In fact, it almost faces the opposite issue: Over the past two years, Nvidia's earnings reports have been stellar, with massive growth in revenue and net income. Yet after five of its last eight earnings reports, the stock has seen an immediate and significant share price decline.
If recent history is any guide, Nvidia's recent share price drop is likely to reverse itself unexpectedly, and the stock should soar to new heights. Smart investors know better than to panic sell this longtime winner that's still at the top of its game.
Equities rebounded from their late-June swoon last week as all three major indexes rose at least 1.7%. The Dow Jones Industrial Averag e ended the shortened-trading week at a record high, while the S&P 500 index and Nasdaq Composite remain 1.7% and 4.7%, respectively, below their early June peaks.
It's been a great year for Coca-Cola (KO +3.22%) shareholders so far. The stock's up more than 16% since the end of 2025, easily outperforming the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite.
It's not too tough to figure out why, either. With the market wobbling amid concerns about artificial intelligence, investors are looking for certainty. With 64 consecutive years of dividend increases to its credit, the beverage behemoth clearly offers it.
If you're looking for a better dividend-paying option for the latter half of 2026, consider fellow Dividend King and direct beverage rival PepsiCo (PEP +2.17%). Here's why.
Image source: Getty Images.
The differences are no longer a liability At first blush, the two consumer product outfits are seemingly so similar that they're almost interchangeable. But look under the hood. The differences are surprisingly stark.
For instance, whereas Coca-Cola outsources the bulk of its production and distribution, PepsiCo owns and operates most of its own bottling operations. It's also the name behind snack chip brands Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, and others, as well as Quaker Oats.
And these differences are a key reason PepsiCo shares have lagged Coke's for more than two years. Coca-Cola maintains its higher margins even when inflation is hitting bottlers and consumers alike. PepsiCo doesn't. As its own bottler, higher input and operational costs are pinching profit margins. Snack foods are more sensitive to inflationary pressures, as well. That's why last year's revenue barely budged, while per-share profits fell 14% year over year.
As the old adage goes, nothing lasts forever. Although it arguably took the company a little too long to figure it out, consumer-friendly price breaks and the launch of increasingly popular snacks like FiberPop and Doritos protein chips are making a difference. PepsiCo's first-quarter organic revenue improved a respectable 2.6% year over year, which -- importantly -- grew operating income to the tune of 24%, driving per-share profits up from $1.33 in Q1 of last year to $1.70 this year. Analysts are looking for similar progress this year and through next.
No reason to wait This impending turnaround isn't yet reflected in the stock's performance. Given how long it took the company to respond initially to the pickier, inflation-riddled environment, investors may be understandably hesitant to believe it's happening until they see further evidence.
Today's Change
(
2.17
%) $
3.06
Current Price
$
144.22
That doesn't mean a recovery isn't brewing, though. The market could readily start to believe again in just a few days, in fact, when the beverage and snack company releases its second-quarter results, expected to mirror Q1's progress.
Even if that doesn't get the ball rolling, PepsiCo is compelling at its current state simply because it will reward you pretty well while you wait. Its forward-looking dividend yield currently stands at 4.2%, versus Coca-Cola's more modest 2.6%.
PepsiCo's dividend, by the way, has now been raised for 54 consecutive years, putting the company firmly among the Dividend Kings -- businesses that have annually increased their dividend payouts for at least 50 years. That streak seems unlikely to be broken anytime soon, no matter how long it takes the stock to snap out of its funk.
Gold went through a volatile period in the first half of the year, with a spike in late January followed by a sharp decline to below $4,100 at the time of writing. It represents a mid-single-digit decline on the year. Still, the price is up almost 25% year over year, and many of the fundamental factors driving the gold price remain in place.
So what happened in the first half of 2026, and what can we expect for the rest of the year?
I'll cut straight to the chase. The correction in the price of gold in 2026 (see chart below) is due to a natural correction in speculators' overinvestment. Still, the fundamental underlying demand driver of central bank buying remains in place. In addition, the price reduction should induce price-sensitive demand (jewelry) to come in and support the market.
As such, the correct strategy is to be mindful of the potential for further declines, but to have a bias toward buying into any significant market-led weakness in gold, a gold ETF, or a gold miner such as Newmont (NEM +4.01%).
Gold Price in U.S. Dollars data by YCharts
It's easy to write this, but it needs to be backed up with a reasoned argument and facts, so here goes.
Overinvestment in gold? Let's start by looking at the components of gold demand in the first quarter of 2026. The key things to look out for here are the importance of investment demand (bars, coins, and exchange-traded funds, or ETFs) to overall marginal demand for gold.
Data source: World Gold Council. Chart by the author.
Technology demand tends to be relatively stable, while central bank purchases appear to be in a long-term structural uptrend (more on that in a moment). Jewelry demand tends to be price-sensitive, so the sharp price increase through 2025 likely curtailed demand in the jewelry sector.
All of these impacts are evident in the evolution of gold demand from 2024 to 2025, with surging investment demand driving a 65% increase in gold prices. As such, going into 2025, a large increase in investment demand (see table below) more than offsets declines in jewelry and central bank demand, possibly in response to higher prices.
Whenever investment demand increases by such an amount, it's likely to create a situation in which some weak gold holders could easily liquidate their positions given any volatility in gold prices.
Gold Demand (Metric Tons)
2024
2025
Change in Demand in 2025
Technology
326
323
(3)
Jewelry
2,027
1,638
(389)
Total Bar and Coin
1,188
1,374
186
ETFs & Similar Products
(3)
801
804
Central Banks
1,092
863
(229)
Total
4,631
4,999
369
Data source: World Gold Council. Any discrepancies are due to rounding.
Central bank buying Indeed, the process of investors liquidating positions appears to have started in the first quarter with a decrease in ETF demand of 65 metric tons from the end of 2025. However, net central bank demand improved in the first quarter, and as JPMorgan Chase argues, China appears to be ramping up gold purchases.
Ongoing central bank buying, as part of a long-term structural trend, is the key assumption made by gold bulls. It's based on the belief that the seemingly inexorable increase in U.S. debt levels will encourage central banks to diversify their reserve holdings away from U.S. debt toward buying more gold. In addition, ongoing geopolitical and trade tensions are encouraging foreign governments to move away from U.S. dollar assets that could be subject to sanctions.
Image source: Getty Images.
The outlook for 2026 Putting it all together, the bullish view is that central bank purchasing will likely continue its long-term upward trend. At the same time, any price weakness will encourage jewelry demand and, at some point, many of the speculative weak holders in gold will have liquidated their positions.
All of which suggests that, while there's obviously still near-term downside risk, the long-term trend is upwards, and investors should buy into any pronounced weakness.
Palantir Technologies (PLTR +2.99%) has lost its mojo on the stock market in recent months. The stock hit a 52-week high on Nov. 3 last year, and since then, it has shed just over 37% of its value as of this writing.
Investors have been selling Palantir stock due to its expensive valuation and concerns that AI start-up Anthropic's offerings could dent the company's growth. However, Wall Street analysts are anticipating a major turnaround in Palantir's fortunes over the coming year. But will it live up to their expectations?
Let's find out.
Image source: The Motley Fool.
Wall Street's price target points toward a big stock price jump Palantir has a median 12-month price target of $200, according to 34 analysts covering the stock, suggesting potential gains of 55% from current levels. The Street-high price target of $255 is even more optimistic, suggesting Palantir could nearly double.
Today's Change
(
2.99
%) $
3.76
Current Price
$
129.49
What's worth noting is that 21 analysts rate Palantir as a buy. Meanwhile, 11 analysts rate it as a hold, and 2 suggest selling Palantir. So, the stock seems to be viewed favorably by Wall Street analysts, with a majority recommending a buy following its pullback in recent months. It is easy to see why that's the case despite Palantir's valuation.
The company's numbers clearly indicate that it is capitalizing on the fast-growing AI software platforms market, despite the perceived competition from Anthropic.
Data by YCharts
Palantir introduced its Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) in April 2023 to help enterprises and federal customers integrate AI software tools into their operations. The chart above shows that AIP has been instrumental in accelerating Palantir's growth over the past three years. The good news is that Palantir's acceleration is here to stay, and that's why there is a possibility that the stock will live up to Wall Street's expectations over the coming year.
Palantir's ability to clock faster-than-expected earnings growth can send the stock soaring Palantir's earnings per share are expected to jump by 97% in 2026 to $1.48, according to consensus estimates. However, the 42% growth projection for 2027 points toward a significant slowdown.
Palantir's earnings per share increased by 154% year over year in Q1 this year. The strong demand for its AI software solutions prompted it to raise its 2026 guidance. Palantir's stronger guidance and phenomenal earnings growth stem from healthy growth in its customer base and increased spending by existing customers.
Palantir's customer count increased by 31% in Q1, and its total contract value of $2.41 billion increased at a faster pace of 61% year over year. That's not surprising, as customers such as GE Aerospace, SAP, and others have been witnessing substantial productivity improvements and cost reductions after deploying Palantir solutions. Another point worth noting is that Palantir's remaining deal value was an impressive $11.8 billion at the end of Q1, almost doubling from the prior year period.
This impressive pipeline of unfulfilled contracts can help Palantir sustain triple-digit-plus earnings growth rates over the coming year, well ahead of consensus expectations. That could boost investor confidence in this AI stock and help Palantir indeed reach the median Wall Street price target in a year.
AMD (NASDAQ:AMD | AMD Price Prediction) and Palantir (NASDAQ:PLTR) both delivered blockbuster Q1 2026 results in early May, attacking the AI opportunity from different angles.
AMD sold the silicon that trains and serves models. Palantir sold the software layer that turns those models into enterprise workflows. Two months later, the market is rewarding execution very differently.
Instinct GPUs Carry AMD. U.S. Commercial Carries Palantir. AMD posted revenue of $10.253 billion, up 37.85% YoY, with Data Center alone contributing $5.775 billion at +57%. That segment is now the engine, powered by EPYC servers and Instinct MI350 shipments.
Lisa Su told investors that “Customer engagement around MI450 Series and Helios is strengthening, with leading customer forecasts exceeding our initial expectations.” The Meta deal for up to 6 gigawatts of Instinct deployment gives that claim real weight.
Palantir grew faster off a smaller base. Revenue hit $1.63 billion, up 84.71%, with U.S. Commercial exploding 133% to $595 million. AIP is clearly landing with corporate buyers.
Alex Karp noted that “Palantir’s Rule of 40 score has soared to 145%.” The company closed 206 deals of at least $1 million, signaling that AIP is becoming a repeatable enterprise sale rather than a bespoke consulting engagement.
Business Driver AMD Palantir Main growth engine Data Center GPUs and EPYC U.S. Commercial AIP Gross margin 55% non-GAAP ~82% Key partners Meta, OpenAI, AWS U.S. defense and Fortune 500 buyers Picks and Shovels vs. Finished Product AMD is a scale story. Su is chasing a hyperscaler capex cycle where every extra gigawatt of Instinct capacity flows into a huge, lower-margin revenue line. Guidance for Q2 revenue of roughly $11.2 billion with 56% gross margin reflects that trade-off. Export controls on MI308 to China remain a live risk, and TSMC dependence never goes away.
Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and AMD didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
Palantir is monetizing the output layer, which is why GAAP operating income reached a 46% margin. Karp raised FY26 revenue guidance to $7.65 to $7.66 billion. Valuation is punishing. Price to sales sits near 53, and shares are down 27.26% year to date even after the quarter.
The Next Test Is Whether the Multiple Catches the Growth AMD stock has ripped 141.79% YTD to $517.82, brushing the $508.31 analyst target. Watch whether MI450 revenue in the back half justifies a forward P/E near 77.
For Palantir, keep an eye on whether U.S. commercial can sustain triple-digit growth against a still-heavy $201.6 million stock-based comp bill.
Why I Lean Toward AMD Right Now AMD looks cleaner. The revenue base is larger, the customer list is concrete, and the stock is reacting positively to fundamentals. Palantir is the more thrilling story, and Karp’s momentum is real, but I want to see the price to sales compress first.
For investors tracking turnaround setups, PLTR’s YTD drawdown is notable. For those following the AI capex boom through a cash-generating hardware franchise, AMD’s fundamentals currently stand out.
Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and AMD didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
ServiceNow (NOW +0.23%) has made a solid comeback of late, despite the ongoing pessimism in the software-as-a-service (SaaS) industry.
The company recently delivered strong results, investors have embraced its growing portfolio of artificial intelligence (AI) products, and many now see ServiceNow as a potential winner in the next phase of enterprise AI.
The bullish argument is straightforward. As businesses deploy more AI agents, they will need a way to manage, monitor, and coordinate all the work those systems create. ServiceNow hopes to become the platform that handles those workflows.
It is an appealing vision. But before investors buy into that story, they should consider one important question: Will AI create more workflows than it eliminates? The answer could have a major impact on ServiceNow's long-term prospects.
Image source: Getty Images.
The traditional software model may be changing Historically, businesses purchased software to help employees perform specific tasks.
A company might use one application for customer support, another for human resources, and another for approving expenses or managing inventory. ServiceNow built a highly successful business by enabling systems to communicate with one another through automated workflows.
The model worked because software applications often work independently. Someone needed to coordinate information between departments and systems.
But artificial intelligence may change how employees interact with software altogether. Instead of opening multiple applications and following predefined workflows, employees may increasingly rely on AI assistants that can perform tasks on their behalf.
Consider a simple example. Today, a new employee joining a company might trigger a series of workflows. A manager submits a request; IT prepares a laptop; human resources creates employee records; security grants system access; and finance updates payroll information.
Tomorrow, a manager may simply tell an AI assistant: "Prepare everything for our new employee starting next Monday." The AI could automate much of the process behind the scenes, coordinating tasks across multiple systems with little direct human involvement.
If that happens on a large scale, businesses may require fewer traditional workflows than investors currently expect. For a company that relies on managing the ever-more-complicated workflow for its customers, that is a risk it cannot ignore.
Today's Change
(
0.23
%) $
0.24
Current Price
$
106.04
ServiceNow believes it is part of the solution To be fair, ServiceNow's management sees the future very differently.
The company argues that AI agents will still require governance, security controls, approvals, compliance checks, and monitoring. In other words, even if AI handles more work, organizations will still need a system to determine what actions AI agents can take and how those actions are tracked.
That is the opportunity ServiceNow is pursuing. The company is investing heavily in becoming an AI-native business, embedding AI into every product, feature, and interaction on its platform. It also aims to become the AI Control Tower, helping customers manage ever more complex AI-driven workflows.
So far, customers appear receptive to that strategy, which explains the company's ongoing revenue growth -- up 22% year over year in the first quarter of 2026. Particularly, its Now Assist (AI service) customers spending over $1 million in annual contracts grew 130% year-over-year in the same period.
In short, the company's growth remains strong, suggesting that AI is currently acting as a tailwind rather than a threat.
Investors should watch one key question The debate on whether AI is an enabler or destroyer of ServiceNow's business model ultimately comes down to the same question: Will AI generate more workflows than it eliminates?
If the answer is yes, ServiceNow could emerge even stronger than it is today. Every AI agent would create actions, approvals, decisions, and processes that require oversight. ServiceNow's platform could become increasingly valuable as organizations deploy thousands of AI-powered workers.
However, if AI eventually becomes capable of managing many of those processes independently, the long-term opportunity may prove smaller than investors expect. And that's what investors should recognize: the biggest risk facing ServiceNow isn't a recession, competition, or slowing demand.
It's the possibility that AI changes enterprise software in ways that are difficult to predict today.
What does it mean for investors? ServiceNow has built one of the highest-quality software businesses in the market. Its recurring revenue, high switching costs, and expanding product portfolio have created tremendous value for shareholders over time.
The company's next chapter may be even larger if it succeeds in becoming the control center for enterprise AI.
But that future is not guaranteed. If AI gradually reduces the number of workflows within organizations, it may shrink ServiceNow's addressable market.
And that's the biggest risk that investors should watch closely in the coming years.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: LCID) between February 25, 2026 and April 13, 2026, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important July 28, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Lucid securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Lucid class action, go to https://www.rosenlegal.com/cases/lucid-group-inc-2026/join or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than July 28, 2026. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered billions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) a supplier quality issue had significantly disrupted deliveries of the Lucid Gravity; (2) the foregoing was likely to, and did, have a material negative impact on Lucid's business and financial results; (3) accordingly, the defendants had overstated the purported enhancements to Lucid's manufacturing and delivery capabilities and overall operations; and (4) as a result, defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the Lucid class action, go to https://www.rosenlegal.com/cases/lucid-group-inc-2026/join or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
-------------------------------
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/303842
Source: The Rosen Law Firm PA
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San Diego, California--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers or acquirers of Zoetis Inc. (NYSE: ZTS) securities between January 14, 2025 and May 6, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), have until Monday, July 27, 2026 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the Zoetis class action lawsuit. Captioned City of Ann Arbor Retiree Health Care Benefit Plan & Trust v. Zoetis Inc., No. 26-cv-04401 (S.D.N.Y.), the Zoetis class action lawsuit charges Zoetis and certain of Zoetis' top executive officers with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the Zoetis class action lawsuit, please provide your information here:
You can also contact attorneys Ken Dolitsky or Michael Albert of Robbins Geller by calling 800/851-7783 or via e-mail at [email protected].
CASE ALLEGATIONS: Zoetis engages in the discovery, development, manufacture, and commercialization of medicines, vaccines, diagnostic products and services, biodevices, genetic tests, and precision animal health solutions for the animal health industry. Zoetis' flagship companion animal products include Librela, Apoquel, Cytopoint, and Simparica Trio.
The Zoetis class action lawsuit alleges that defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) veterinarian prescription growth and adoption of Zoetis' Librela, a canine pain treatment, were sharply weakening as clinicians became more cautious following FDA safety warnings concerning serious neurological complications in dogs; (ii) Zoetis' Simparica Trio was losing significant market share to a lower priced competing canine parasiticide with broader indicated use in a slowing overall market; and (iii) Zoetis' dermatology products, Apoquel and Cytopoint, were losing substantial market share to a newly launched competing canine treatment.
On August 5, 2025, Zoetis released its second quarter 2025 financial results, allegedly revealing weakening demand trends within its companion animal portfolio. On this news, the price of Zoetis stock fell nearly 4%, according to the complaint.
Then, on November 4, 2025, Zoetis released third quarter 2025 financial results, allegedly disclosing continued weakness in Librela sales and increased competitive pressure in dermatology and parasiticides. On this news, the price of Zoetis stock fell nearly 14%, according to the complaint.
The Zoetis class action lawsuit further alleges that on February 12, 2026, Zoetis released its fourth quarter and full year 2025 financial results and provided 2026 guidance reflecting further slowing growth. According to the complaint, Zoetis acknowledged increasing competitive pressures in parasiticides and dermatology. On this news, the price of Zoetis stock allegedly fell further, according to the complaint.
Finally, on May 7, 2026, Zoetis reported first quarter 2026 financial results, allegedly disclosing slowing overall revenue growth, declining companion animal sales performance, and worsening results across its key dermatology and parasiticides franchises as competition intensified. On this news, the price of Zoetis stock fell more than 21%, according to the complaint.
THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased or acquired Zoetis securities during the Class Period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the Zoetis class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the Zoetis class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the Zoetis class action lawsuit. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the Zoetis class action lawsuit.
ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is one of the world's leading law firms representing investors in securities fraud and shareholder rights litigation. Our Firm ranked #1 on the most recent ISS Securities Class Action Services Top 50 Report, recovering more than $916 million for investors in 2025. This marks our fourth #1 ranking in the past five years. And in those five years alone, Robbins Geller recovered $8.4 billion for investors - $3.4 billion more than any other law firm. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs' firms in the world, and the Firm's attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest ever - $7.2 billion - in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information:
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Zoetis Inc. (NYSE: ZTS) between January 14, 2025 and May 6, 2026, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important July 27, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Zoetis securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Zoetis class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/cases/zoetis-inc/join or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than July 27, 2026. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered billions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and touted growing market share, strong veterinarian adoption, and accelerating sales growth across Zoetis' flagship Companion Animal products and/or failed to disclose that: (1) veterinarian prescription growth and adoption of Zoetis' Librela, a canine pain treatment, were sharply weakening as clinicians became more cautious following FDA safety warnings concerning serious neurological complications in dogs; (2) Zoetis' Simparica Trio was losing significant market share to a lower priced competing canine parasiticide with broader indicated use in a slowing overall market; and (3) Zoetis' dermatology products, Apoquel and Cytopoint, were losing substantial market share to a newly launched competing canine treatment. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the Zoetis class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/cases/zoetis-inc/join or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
-------------------------------
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/303852
Source: The Rosen Law Firm PA
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If you think Tesla is an electric vehicle (EV) stock, think again. That company is now one of the largest artificial intelligence (AI) stocks in the world. In fact, AI is likely a much bigger contributor to the company's $1.3 trillion valuation than automobile manufacturing.
Tesla's massive valuation and status as a bona fide AI stock are due to several factors. The biggest factor, however, is the promise of self-driving vehicles.
Autonomous driving software is rapidly advancing thanks to artificial intelligence technologies. Experts agree that robotaxis should become a multitrillion-dollar opportunity globally. Whichever automaker cracks the code of full autonomy using AI, therefore, will win big. And Tesla arguably has one of the most advanced self-driving systems in the world.
Tesla, however, isn't the only EV maker shifting its focus to AI and self-driving vehicles. There is a Tesla competitor following the same growth trajectory, yet its valuation is significantly smaller.
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This Tesla competitor could be the next big AI stock On the surface, Rivian (RIVN +8.41%) looks like just another EV stock. Last year, the company had two EVs in its lineup -- the R1T and R1S -- both of which cost upward of $100,000 when including options, taxes, and fees. This year, however, it started shipments of its R2 SUV, its first vehicle priced under $50,000. Two more affordable models are set for release sometime in 2028.
These new vehicles are tightly tied into Rivian's new strategic focus, which places a heavy emphasis on AI.
"What I think is going to happen is over the next five years consumers are going to increasingly just expect certain things," Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe told reporters in June. He believes autonomous vehicles with embedded AI features will quickly become the default for the industry. "From a societal point of view, it's just going to become more the way things work."
Image source: Rivian.
Scaringe's vision for the future is a big reason Rivian has ramped up investments in both AI and autonomy, to the point that the company quietly dropped its profitability targets for 2027.
There are already early indications that Rivian's bets are taking off. In March, Uber Technologies agreed to invest up to $1.25 billion into Rivian in exchange for up to 50,000 R2 SUVs. Those vehicles will be used to power Uber's robotaxi division. This deal gives Rivian strong early social validation for its autonomy development and road map.
Rivian's market cap remains around $22 billion despite rising R2 deliveries and growing confidence in the company's AI and autonomy strategy. If you're looking for under-the-radar AI stocks with plenty of upside, Rivian should top your watch list.
SummaryRivian Automotive launched the R2, marking a pivotal shift toward more affordable EVs and reigniting sales momentum. The EV manufacturer raised 2026 delivery guidance to 65K–70K vehicles, reflecting robust Q2 deliveries and improved production outlook. The stock trades at only ~2x 2026 sales targets, with valuation supported by strong positioning in the $50K midsize SUV/Crossover segment. The investment thesis remains ultra Bullish, emphasizing accelerating production, growing addressable market, and positive delivery surprises. This idea was discussed in more depth with members of my private investing community, Out Fox The Street. Learn More » benedek/iStock Unreleased via Getty Images
Rivian Automotive Inc. (RIVN) finally launched the R2 and the momentum in the company appears to have finally turned. The EV manufacturer now has a more affordable vehicle to sell, leading to a long
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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, but may initiate a beneficial Long position through a purchase of the stock, or the purchase of call options or similar derivatives in RIVN over 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.
The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing in this article should be taken as a solicitation to purchase or sell securities. Before buying or selling any stock, you should do your own research and reach your own conclusion or consult a financial advisor. Investing includes risks, including loss of principal.
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.
Imagine telling your AI assistant to deploy a smart contract the same way you’d ask it to book a dinner reservation. That’s essentially what Injective just built.
The blockchain network’s Model Context Protocol (MCP) server enables AI coding agents to build, deploy, and verify smart contracts on Injective using natural language prompts. No manual transaction construction required.
What the MCP server actually does The MCP server acts as a bridge between AI models and Injective’s onchain modules, converting what an AI agent wants to do into the precise blockchain operations needed to make it happen.
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It ships with 22 tools covering market data, trading, transfers, and bridging. The server uses AES-256 encryption for key security.
Injective CEO Eric Chen framed the philosophy behind the launch pretty clearly.
“Agents shouldn’t need to understand transaction construction to trade onchain. With the MCP Server, any AI agent can go from intent to signed trade in seconds.”
The bigger picture: an AI-native blockchain stack The MCP server isn’t a one-off product launch. It’s part of a growing ecosystem of AI-focused developer resources that Injective has been assembling.
An Injective Documentation MCP server provides example prompts for users, including prompts for deploying EVM smart contracts. Meanwhile, an agent-skills repository includes the injective-evm-developer package, which facilitates EVM smart contract development on the network.
Stitch these pieces together and you get an end-to-end workflow. A coding agent can reference documentation, write a contract, deploy it to the blockchain, and verify it, all through the MCP server tools.
What this means for investors and developers For traders, the MCP server’s trading tools mean AI agents can execute perpetual futures trades, access market data, and manage transfers autonomously.
The open-source nature of the MCP server is worth noting. By making the tools publicly available, Injective is inviting the broader developer community to build on top of the protocol, audit the code, and extend its capabilities.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Hub Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: HUBG) and certain of its officers.
This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Hub Group securities between April 28, 2023 and May 11, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/HUBG.
Hub Group Case Details
The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
Hub Group's financial statements prepared for the periods from Q1 2023 to Q4 2024, including its annual reports for 2023 and 2024, contained material misstatements caused by the premature and incorrect recognition of certain transactions concerning, among other things, the Company's operating revenue, operating income, revenue recognition, effectiveness of internal controls and procedures, and drivers of financial results and growth; Hub Group's financial statements prepared for the periods from Q1 2025 to Q3 2025 contained material misstatements caused by the understatement of purchased transportation costs and accounts payable concerning, among other things, the Company's operating expenses, purchased transportation and warehousing expenses, operating income, effectiveness of internal disclosure controls and procedures, and drivers of financial results and growth; and as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects lacked a reasonable basis and were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.What's Next for Hub Group Investors?
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/HUBG, or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in Hub Group you have until August 28, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to Hub Group Investors
We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.
Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for Hub Group Securities Class Action?
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com
"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.
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Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/303510
Source: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Insulet Corporation (NASDAQ: PODD) and certain of its officers.
This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Insulet securities between May 21, 2025 and May 26, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/PODD.
Insulet Case Details
The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and compliance policies. Specifically, the Complaint alleges that Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
Insulet's manufacturing controls and procedures were defective; the foregoing created a foreseeable heightened risk that one or more Insulet products would be found to be in violation of applicable safety regulations and/or pose a risk of injury; and as a result, Defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.What's Next for Insulet Investors?
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/PODD, or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in Insulet you have until August 31, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to Insulet Investors
We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.
Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for Insulet Securities Class Action?
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com
"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.
Attorney advertising.
Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/303932
Source: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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NEW YORK, July 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against CommVault Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CVLT) and certain of its officers.
This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired CommVault securities between April 29, 2025 and January 26, 2026, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: bgandg.com/CVLT.
CommVault Case Details
The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
(1) Defendants provided investors with misleading guidance and projections regarding CommVault's anticipated annual recurring revenue (“ARR”) growth for fiscal year 2026, including projections related to new net ARR growth;
(2) Defendants simultaneously disseminated overly positive statements while concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of the Company’s ARR growth environment;
(3) Defendants knew or recklessly disregarded that the Company’s ARR growth guidance failed to properly account for critical variables, including the type of sales driving ARR performance; and
(4) as a result, Defendants’ statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects lacked a reasonable basis and were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
What's Next for CommVault Investors?
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm’s site: bgandg.com/CVLT. or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in CommVault you have until July 17, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to CommVault Investors
We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys’ fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.
Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for CommVault Securities Class Action?
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com
"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.
Contact Info
Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or Nathan Miller
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
917-590-0911 | [email protected]
Attorney advertising.
Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Energy Transfer (ET +1.39%), one of the largest midstream companies in the United States, is usually considered a stable income investment rather than a market-beating one. But since the start of the year, its stock has rallied 17% and outperformed the S&P 500's 9% gain. Let's see why it beat the market, and why it could maintain that momentum in the second half of 2026.
Image source: Getty Images.
Why is Energy Transfer beating the market? Energy Transfer operates over 140,000 miles of pipeline across 44 states. It transports natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), natural gas liquids (NGLs), crude oil, and other refined products through its pipelines. It also exports some of its natural gas products.
Unlike big oil stocks, which benefited from higher oil prices in the first half of 2026, Energy Transfer isn't as heavily exposed to fluctuating commodity prices since it simply charges upstream and downstream companies "tolls" to use its infrastructure. As long as oil and gas keep flowing through its pipelines, it will generate plenty of cash to support its dividends.
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Nevertheless, the soaring demand for oil and natural gas still boosted its crude oil and NGL volumes to record levels in the first quarter of 2026. It also secured major long-term agreements with utilities and data centers to supply natural gas to the booming AI market, transforming it from a reliable income play to a higher-growth AI infrastructure stock.
Why will Energy Transfer continue to beat the market? In the first quarter, Energy Transfer predicted its adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) would rise 14%-16% in 2026. That was up from its prior outlook for 9%-12% growth, and would mark an acceleration from its 3% growth in 2025.
With an enterprise value of $135.3 billion, Energy Transfer trades at just seven times this year's adjusted EBITDA and pays a high forward yield of 6.9%. As more investors rerate it as an AI infrastructure play, its valuation will rise, driving its stock to outperform the S&P 500.
Energy Transfer will also remain a reliable stock for income-seeking investors. In 2025, its adjusted distributable cash flow (DCF) of $8.2 billion easily covered its $4.6 billion in total distributions, and that low payout ratio gives it plenty of room for future hikes. It also blends a return of capital with its income to pay more tax-efficient distributions.
However, Energy Transfer is a master limited partnership (MLP) that technically treats you as a partner rather than a regular shareholder. Therefore, you'll need to report its income separately on a K-1 form when you file your taxes every year. If you're fine with that extra step, Energy Transfer could offer a compelling blend of growth and income for the foreseeable future.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In Peabody Energy To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you purchased or acquired securities in Peabody Energy between October 14, 2024 and May 4, 2026 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
[You may also click here for additional information]
NEW YORK, July 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Peabody Energy Corporation (“Peabody Energy” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BTU) and reminds investors of the August 24, 2026 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: Defendants provided these overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Peabody Energy's Centurion mine and the multitude of issues causing delays to the ramp-up and the return to full longwall production dates. Such statements absent these material facts caused Plaintiff and other shareholders to purchase Peabody Energy's securities at artificially inflated prices.
On March 30, 2026, Peabody Energy issued a press release lowering guidance pertaining to Centurion mine's expected first quarter 2026 output, announcing that sales volume from the Centurion mine was expected to deliver approximately 250,000 tons in the first quarter due to "greater-than-anticipated mine commissioning challenges" (compared to previous estimates of around 700,000 tons). On this news, Peabody Energy's stock price fell $3.82, or approximately 9.7%, to close at $35.68 per share on March 30, 2026.
On May 5, 2026, Peabody Energy issued a press release disclosing the Company's failure to ramp-up Centurion by the long-awaited March 2026 deadline and cutting guidance related to full year met segment volumes to reflect the increased cost and substantial volume decrease, reducing the full year sales outlook for Centurion to 2.5 million tons compared to the original expectation of 3.5 million tons. On this news, Peabody Energy's stock price fell $1.52, or 5.7%, to close at $25.00 per share on May 5, 2026.
The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Peabody Energy’s conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.
To learn more about the Peabody Energy class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/BTU or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Investors Regarding the Peabody Energy Securities Class Action Lawsuit:
What is the Peabody Energy securities fraud lawsuit about?
The lawsuit alleges that Peabody Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: BTU) and certain of its officers and directors made materially false and misleading statements and/or concealed material adverse facts concerning the true condition of the Company's Centurion mine, including the nature and severity of issues allegedly causing delays to its ramp-up and return to full longwall production. The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, defendants provided investors with overwhelmingly positive statements about the Centurion mine while purportedly withholding information about the multitude of operational challenges affecting it. These allegedly false and misleading statements are said to have caused investors to purchase Peabody Energy securities at artificially inflated prices. The inflation in the stock price allegedly began to correct when Peabody Energy disclosed, on March 30, 2026, that first quarter 2026 output from the Centurion mine was expected to reach only approximately 250,000 tons — well below prior estimates of approximately 700,000 tons — due to "greater-than-anticipated mine commissioning challenges," and further when the Company disclosed on May 5, 2026 that it had failed to ramp up the mine by its March 2026 deadline and cut its full-year sales outlook for Centurion from 3.5 million tons to 2.5 million tons.
Who may be eligible to participate in the lawsuit?
Investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Peabody Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: BTU) securities on the NASDAQ between October 14, 2024 and May 4, 2026, inclusive, may be eligible to participate in this lawsuit as members of the proposed class. Eligibility to participate is not limited to investors who seek appointment as lead plaintiff; any qualifying class member may share in any recovery that may ultimately be obtained. Investors who purchased Peabody Energy securities during the Class Period and suffered losses are encouraged to review their transaction records to determine whether they fall within the defined class. Participation in a class action does not require that an investor take any individual legal action or incur separate legal fees to potentially benefit from any recovery achieved on behalf of the class.
What is a lead plaintiff, and how can I seek appointment?
A lead plaintiff is a court-appointed representative who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation, including making key decisions regarding litigation strategy and the selection of lead counsel. Any class member who purchased Peabody Energy securities during the Class Period and suffered a loss may move the court for appointment as lead plaintiff, and courts typically appoint the movant with the largest financial interest in the outcome of the litigation who otherwise satisfies applicable legal requirements. The deadline to file a motion seeking appointment as lead plaintiff is August 24, 2026. Importantly, investors are not required to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in order to participate in the class and share in any recovery that may result from the litigation — class members who do not serve as lead plaintiff retain the ability to benefit from any settlement or judgment.
What should investors do if they purchased Peabody Energy stock during the Class Period?
Investors who purchased Peabody Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: BTU) securities between October 14, 2024 and May 4, 2026, inclusive, are encouraged to promptly review their brokerage records and account statements to confirm the dates and prices at which they acquired and, if applicable, sold their shares. Investors should take steps to preserve all relevant documentation, including transaction confirmations, account statements, and any communications relating to their Peabody Energy holdings, as such records may be relevant to establishing eligibility and calculating losses. Given that the lead plaintiff motion deadline is August 24, 2026, investors wishing to be considered for appointment as lead plaintiff should act well in advance of that date. Investors may wish to consult with Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP or other qualified securities counsel to evaluate their legal rights and options before the deadline.
Why should investors contact Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP?
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP has represented investors in securities litigation for decades and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for shareholders. Investors who purchased Peabody Energy securities during the Class Period may contact the firm to discuss their legal rights, potential claims, and the lead plaintiff process at no cost or obligation.
Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7f60c456-51b6-4096-a862-d5d3beda6cc5
QuantumScape (QS 7.10%) wants to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) batteries with its solid-state battery technology. The company has made good progress toward proving the concept and commercializing its technology.
That may lead investors to question why QuantumScape stock plunged 27.4% in the first half of 2026, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence. Here's a look at where the business and the stock stand at the midyear point.
Image source: Getty Images.
Major milestones QuantumScape hit some important milestones last year. They included:
An expanded development effort and licensing deal with Volkswagen Group's battery maker, PowerCo. Partnerships with glass maker Corning and Murata Manufacturing to achieve high-volume production of QuantumScape's ceramic separators for commercial use. Integrating its advanced separator process into initial battery cell production. Demonstrating a real-world example with a Ducati motorcycle debut running on its solid-state battery. Signing joint development agreements with two large global automakers. Establishing a technology assessment agreement with a major new global automotive manufacturer. Investors reacted by sending QuantumScape shares soaring in 2025. The stock doubled on all the positive news. The company has continued to make progress toward commercialization in 2026, with an agreement with Honda Motor's research and development arm to enhance the battery platform through joint contributions and expertise from both organizations.
That news could be key for investors, as Honda could expand the use case for solid-state batteries beyond automobiles and motorcycles to include power equipment such as generators and power tools.
Solid-state advantages QuantumScape's batteries are expected to provide greater energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety on a large scale compared to conventional lithium-ion cells. With the company's separator process and an accelerated, continuous manufacturing method that mass-produces the solid-state separators in place, the focus can now be on QuantumScape's potential market opportunities.
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As mentioned, those opportunities could go beyond electric cars. Beyond power equipment, QuantumScape is targeting in-rack energy storage for artificial intelligence (AI) factories. EVs are currently QuantumScape's focus, though. And QuantumScape now has agreements and relationships with multiple global automotive companies. But QuantumScape isn't the only company looking to capitalize on those opportunities.
That is another risk factor investors need to consider. An investment in QuantumScape carries somewhat less risk now than a year ago, thanks to its technology milestones. The stock's nearly 30% drop also reduces the risk level.
But there is already some success built into its $4.3 billion market cap. While less risky than at the start of 2026, investors should still allocate only an amount that would be comfortable for a speculative part of their portfolio.
Howard Smith has positions in QuantumScape. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Corning. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In AeroVironment To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you purchased or acquired securities in AeroVironment between June 25, 2025 and March 10, 2026 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
[You may also click here for additional information]
NEW YORK, July 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against AeroVironment, Inc. (“AeroVironment” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) and reminds investors of the July 27, 2026 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (i) AeroVironment understated the likelihood that it would imminently face competition from other vendors for the work it performed in connection with the SCAR program and the U.S. Space Force’s ongoing efforts to modernize the SCN; (ii) accordingly, Defendants overstated AeroVironment’s business and financial prospects; and (iii) as a result, Defendants’ public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding AeroVironment’s conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.
To learn more about the AeroVironment class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/AVAV or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Investors Regarding the AeroVironment Securities Class Action Lawsuit:
What is the AeroVironment securities fraud lawsuit about?
The AeroVironment securities fraud lawsuit is a federal securities class action alleging that AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) and its executives made false and misleading statements to investors by concealing that the Company faced imminent competition for its SCAR program contracts and overstating its business and financial prospects. As the truth emerged through a series of disclosures — including a U.S. government stop work order on January 20, 2026, a Space Force announcement that it was reopening the SCAR program on March 2, 2026, and AeroVironment's disclosure of a $151.3 million goodwill impairment and contract termination on March 10, 2026 — AVAV's stock price dropped sharply, causing significant losses for investors.
Who may be eligible to participate in the lawsuit?
Investors who purchased or acquired AeroVironment (AVAV) stock between June 25, 2025 and March 10, 2026 — the Class Period — and suffered financial losses may be eligible to participate in the AeroVironment securities class action. Participation as a class member does not require taking any affirmative legal action; eligible investors may recover losses simply by remaining members of the class. Whistleblowers, former AeroVironment employees, and others with relevant information about the Company's conduct are also encouraged to come forward.
What is a lead plaintiff, and how can I seek appointment?
A lead plaintiff in the AeroVironment class action is a court-appointed investor — typically the one with the largest financial interest in the case — who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of all class members. Any AeroVironment investor who purchased AVAV stock during the Class Period may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice. The deadline to seek lead plaintiff appointment is July 27, 2026. Importantly, choosing not to seek the lead plaintiff role does not affect an investor's ability to share in any recovery obtained for the class.
What should investors do if they purchased AeroVironment stock during the Class Period?
Investors who purchased AeroVironment (AVAV) stock between June 25, 2025 and March 10, 2026 and suffered losses should contact Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP immediately to discuss their legal rights. The deadline to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the AeroVironment securities class action is July 27, 2026. To speak directly with securities litigation partner Josh Wilson, call 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310), or visit www.faruqilaw.com/AVAV for more information.
Why should investors contact Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP?
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP has represented investors in securities litigation for decades and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for shareholders. Investors who purchased AeroVironment securities during the Class Period may contact the firm to discuss their legal rights, potential claims, and the lead plaintiff process at no cost or obligation.
Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7f60c456-51b6-4096-a862-d5d3beda6cc5
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Graphic Packaging Holding Company (NYSE: GPK) between February 4, 2025 and February 2, 2026, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important July 6, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Graphic Packaging securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Graphic Packaging class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=64523 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than July 6, 2026. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered billions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Graphic Packaging was experiencing, inter alia, significant inventory management issues, as well as significantly reduced demand and volumes and increased costs; (2) defendants downplayed the true scope and severity of the foregoing issues, which were likely to, and did, have a material negative impact on Graphic Packaging's business and financial results; (3) defendants likewise overstated the strength and sustainability of Graphic Packaging's business model and operations, as well as its ability to weather ongoing macroeconomic headwinds; (4) accordingly, Graphic Packaging's previously issued full year 2025 financial guidance was unreliable and/or unrealistic; and (5) as a result, defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the Graphic Packaging class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=64523 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
-------------------------------
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/303885
Source: The Rosen Law Firm PA
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NEW YORK, July 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Verra Mobility Corporation (NASDAQ: VRRM) and certain of its officers.
This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Verra securities between February 24, 2026 and May 26, 2026, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: bgandg.com/VRRM.
Verra Case Details
The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
Defendants misrepresented the nature and stability of Verra’s relationship with Avis Budget Group (“Avis”), including the likelihood of securing a contract extension; Defendants downplayed the risk that major rental car companies, including Avis, could replace Verra’s services with in-house solutions or alternative third-party providers; and as a result, Defendants’ statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. What's Next for Verra Investors?
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm’s site: bgandg.com/VRRM. or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in Verra you have until August 4, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to Verra Investors
We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys’ fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.
Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for Verra Securities Class Action?
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com
"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.
Contact Info
Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or Nathan Miller
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
917-590-0911 | [email protected]
Attorney advertising.
Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) and certain of its officers.
This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Calix securities between January 28, 2026 and April 21, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/CALX.
Calix Case Details
The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, defendants failed to disclose to investors:
the Company's first quarter margins had significantly benefited from advanced purchasing of memory components; that the Company's advanced supply of memory components was dwindling; that, as a result, the Company was experiencing negative margin pressure as it was forced to purchase memory components at rising market prices; and that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's margins, business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.What's Next for Calix Investors?
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/CALX, or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in Calix you have until July 27, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to Calix Investors
We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.
Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for Calix Securities Class Action?
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com
"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.
Attorney advertising.
Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/299460
Source: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
Ready to Announce with Confidence? Send us a message and a member of our TMX Newsfile team will contact you to discuss your needs.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In FS KKR Capital To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you purchased or acquired securities in FS KKR Capital between May 8, 2024 and February 25, 2026 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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NEW YORK, July 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against FS KKR Capital Corp. (“FS KKR Capital” or the “Company”) (NYSE: FSK) and reminds investors of the July 3, 2026 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (1) the Company overstated the effectiveness of its portfolio restructuring efforts for its nonaccrual companies; (2) the Company overstated the valuation of its portfolio investments and/or overstated the effectiveness of the Company’s portfolio valuation process; (3) the Company overstated the durability of its quarterly distribution strategy; and (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.
The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding FS KKR Capital’s conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.
To learn more about the FS KKR Capital Corp. class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/FSK or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Investors Regarding the FS KKR Capital Corp. Securities Class Action Lawsuit:
What is the FS KKR Capital securities fraud lawsuit about?
The FS KKR Capital securities fraud lawsuit is a federal securities class action alleging that FS KKR Capital Corp. (NYSE: FSK) and its executives made false and misleading statements to investors by overstating the effectiveness of its portfolio restructuring efforts for nonaccrual companies, overstating the valuation of its portfolio investments, and overstating the durability of its quarterly distribution strategy. As the truth emerged through a series of disclosures — including an August 6, 2025 report revealing a 6.2% decline in net asset value, a $474 million drop in total fair value of investments, and a loss per share of negative $0.75, followed by a February 25, 2026 announcement of further NAV deterioration, an additional $406 million decline in investment fair value, a dividend cut from $0.70 to $0.48 per share, and an acknowledgment that identified problem companies accounted for only 50% of net realized and unrealized losses — FSK's stock price dropped sharply, causing significant losses for investors.
Who may be eligible to participate in the FS KKR Capital class action lawsuit?
Investors who purchased or acquired FS KKR Capital Corp. (FSK) stock between May 8, 2024 and February 25, 2026 — the Class Period — and suffered financial losses may be eligible to participate in the FS KKR Capital securities class action. Participation as a class member does not require taking any affirmative legal action; eligible investors may recover losses simply by remaining members of the class. Whistleblowers, former FS KKR Capital employees, and others with relevant information about the Company's conduct are also encouraged to come forward.
What is a lead plaintiff, and how can I seek appointment in the FS KKR Capital lawsuit?
A lead plaintiff in the FS KKR Capital class action is a court-appointed investor — typically the one with the largest financial interest in the case — who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of all class members. Any FS KKR Capital investor who purchased FSK stock during the Class Period may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice. The deadline to seek lead plaintiff appointment is July 3, 2026. Importantly, choosing not to seek the lead plaintiff role does not affect an investor's ability to share in any recovery obtained for the class.
What should investors do if they purchased FS KKR Capital stock during the Class Period?
Investors who purchased FS KKR Capital Corp. (FSK) stock between May 8, 2024 and February 25, 2026 and suffered losses should contact Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP immediately to discuss their legal rights. The deadline to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the FS KKR Capital securities class action is July 3, 2026. To speak directly with securities litigation partner Josh Wilson, call 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310), or visit www.faruqilaw.com/FSK for more information.
Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7f60c456-51b6-4096-a862-d5d3beda6cc5
PANews news, July 5 — Token Unlocks data shows that tokens including PUMP, HYPE, APT and others will see large unlocks next week, specifically:
Pump.fun (PUMP) will unlock approximately 82.5 billion tokens on July 12 at 10:00 PM Beijing time, representing approximately 29.23% of the circulating supply and worth approximately $125 million;
Hyperliquid (HYPE) will unlock approximately 452,000 tokens on July 6 at 8:00 AM Beijing time, representing approximately 0.2% of the circulating supply and worth approximately $30.9 million;
Aptos (APT) will unlock approximately 11.31 million tokens on July 12 at 10:00 PM Beijing time, representing approximately 0.66% of the circulating supply and worth approximately $6.9 million;
RedStone (RED) will unlock approximately 40.85 million tokens on July 7 at midnight Beijing time, representing approximately 9.8% of the circulating supply and worth approximately $4.1 million;
Movement (MOVE) will unlock approximately 165 million tokens on July 9 at 8:00 PM Beijing time, representing approximately 4.29% of the circulating supply and worth approximately $2 million;
Linea (LINEA) will unlock approximately 1.08 billion tokens on July 10 at 7:00 PM Beijing time, representing approximately 3.63% of the circulating supply and worth approximately $2.7 million;
io.net (IO) will unlock approximately 13.29 million tokens on July 11 at 8:00 PM Beijing time, representing approximately 3.61% of the circulating supply and worth approximately $2.3 million.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 5, 2026) - Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Helen of Troy Limited (NASDAQ: HELE) and certain of its officers.
This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Helen of Troy securities between April 24, 2024 and October 8, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/HELE.
Helen of Troy Case Details
The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
Helen of Troy overstated the success and benefits of its Project Pegasus initiative, touting the "fuel" it was generating while downplaying issues such as "implementation hiccups" at its Tennessee distribution center and assuring investors that the project was progressing and delivering cost-saving efficiencies; in reality, Project Pegasus was not delivering the efficiencies Defendants claimed, as the Company lacked sufficient resources and budget to achieve its stated restructuring and cost-savings goals; and as a result, Defendants' statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.What's Next for Helen of Troy Investors?
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/HELE, or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in Helen of Troy you have until August 3, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to Helen of Troy Investors
We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.
Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for Helen of Troy Securities Class Action?
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com
"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.
Attorney advertising.
Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/300149
Source: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
Ready to Announce with Confidence? Send us a message and a member of our TMX Newsfile team will contact you to discuss your needs.
Kaspa ($KAS) has activated the Toccata hard fork, an upgrade that marks a fundamental shift for what has long been marketed as the fastest pure proof-of-work blockchain. The fork moves Kaspa well beyond its payments-layer origins, introducing programmability directly at the base layer without abandoning the BlockDAG architecture or proof-of-work consensus that define the network.
Covenants, native tokens, and ZK proofs land on Layer 1 The centrepiece of the upgrade is the addition of covenants, programmable rules attached directly to transactions. Previously, Kaspa's UTXO model only controlled who could spend coins. After Toccata, developers can create conditions that determine how and when coins are spent, opening the door for smart wallets, escrow services, time-locked vaults, and decentralised finance applications.
The hard fork also introduces native KRC-20 tokens and covenant programming via the SilverScript compiler, transforming Kaspa from a fast payments layer into a programmable proof-of-work Layer 1 that can support DeFi and NFTs directly on its base layer. Previously, KRC-20 tokens operated through inscription-style mechanisms, relying on off-chain indexing and external infrastructure, which introduced inefficiencies and limitations. Under the new regime, token creation, transfers, and atomic operations become part of consensus rules, giving users lower fees, trustless atomic swaps, and seamless integration without bridges or wrapped assets.
The third pillar is zero-knowledge infrastructure. The Toccata upgrade adds zero-knowledge proof verification opcodes at the protocol level, enabling native ZK proof verification on Layer 1. With ZK verification primitives, Kaspa can serve as a settlement layer for ZK rollups: Layer 2 solutions can perform heavy computation off-chain and submit only compact validity proofs to Layer 1.
Core developer Michael Sutton has described Toccata as the point where Kaspa's high-frequency monetary base layer meets programmability in two layered forms: native L1 covenant systems, and based ZK systems built on top of the same foundations.
Two EVM-compatible Layer 2s already building on top The Toccata upgrade is complemented by two distinct Layer 2 solutions, Kasplex and Igra, with independent testing showing that both achieve full EVM compatibility and significant cost advantages, positioning them as viable alternatives to Ethereum for developers. Kasplex operates as a traditional rollup offering immediate EVM compatibility and faster finality, while Igra operates as a decentralised rollup built directly on Kaspa's BlockDAG, offering L1-backed security and community-node processing from day one.
On the Layer 1 covenant path, developers can write covenant-based applications directly on Kaspa using the SilverScript compiler, implementing advanced UTXO-based workflows and programmable transaction constraints within Kaspa's scripting environment. For more complex applications, the ZK infrastructure introduced in Toccata enables developers to build ZK applications that inherit transaction ordering from Layer 1 while performing computation externally and submitting cryptographic proofs back to the chain, supporting rollups, canonical bridges, and other proof-based applications anchored to Kaspa's DAG.
The upgrade represents a decisive architectural bet: that bounded, UTXO-native programmability can attract serious developer activity without the global-state overhead that comes with a full virtual machine. Whether that gamble pays off will depend on how quickly the ecosystem around Toccata's new primitives matures.
Sources
Kaspa Covenants++ Toccata Hard Fork Outlook, Michael Sutton (Medium)
Kaspa Toccata Hard Fork Deep Dive, Gate Blog
Kaspa Official Developer Docs
Listen below or on the go via Apple Podcasts and Spotify
SpaceX exits quiet period and enters Nasdaq 100. (0:17) PepsiCo headlines light earnings calendar. (1:16) ‘Ghost ticketing’ investigation. (2:23)
SpaceX (SPCX) gets two major catalysts this week, and the options market suggests traders are expecting a solid—and possibly spectacular—move.
On Tuesday, the IPO quiet period ends, freeing analysts to publish ratings and price targets. The stock will also join the Nasdaq 100 (QQQ).
The July 10 options chain shows traders positioned for those twin catalysts, with the $180 and $190 calls attracting the strongest bullish interest.
SPCX closed at $162 on Thursday, with weekly options implying a move of about ±9% by Friday's expiration. The $180 and $190 calls represent gains of roughly 11% and 17%, respectively.
Downside positioning is relatively light, with little in the options chain pointing to strong bearish conviction.
Then there's the $330 call. On a stock trading at $162, 106,038 contracts changed hands despite carrying just 36,131 contracts of open interest. At about $0.20 each, they represent retail lottery tickets in their purest form—a wager that SpaceX more than doubles by Friday.
PepsiCo (PEP) headlines the earnings calendar on Thursday, with analysts expecting EPS of $2.21 on revenue of about $24B.
SA analyst Motti Sapir, who rates the stock a Hold, says PepsiCo needs to show "clear growth in North America for both drinks and snacks, real positive free cash flow, and proof it can control costs without losing ground to rivals" for the bulls to return.
But Kody's Dividends, which rates the stock a Buy, argues PepsiCo remains an attractive value and income play and "also looks like it can sustain respectable constant-currency core EPS growth in the years ahead."
Also on the earnings calendarm, Levi Strauss (LEVI) reports on Wednesday, while Delta Air Lines (DAL) reports on Friday.
Looking to the economy, the FOMC will release the minutes from its first meeting under Chairman Kevin Warsh on Wednesday.
Wells Fargo economists say they will be watching for "any signs of what could shift a divided Committee from a hold toward rate hikes."
"We will be looking at whether a majority of participants view the recent pickup in inflation as persistent enough to warrant additional tightening or as primarily a temporary supply shock," they said.
"We will also be interested in the extent to which Committee members view the labor market and the demand side of the economy as an inflationary problem."
In the news this weekend, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into allegations that StubHub (STUB) canceled or failed to deliver World Cup tickets in a practice known as "ghost ticketing."
Soccer fans across the country complained that their tickets were canceled days, or sometimes hours, before matches.
StubHub blamed the issue on "transfer problems" with FIFA's ticketing platform. But Paxton said consumers instead attribute the cancellations to "ghost ticketing," in which sellers collect payment for tickets they don't possess and later cancel the sale.
And starting Monday, Tesla (TSLA) will cap employees' spending on AI products at $200 a week.
The Information reported that the limit will not apply to xAI.
Earlier this year, Elon Musk said output per Tesla employee "is going to get nutty high" thanks to the company's internal use of AI and its Optimus humanoid robot program.
And it's a busy week for dividend investors.
On Monday, AI bellwether Micron (MU), GE Aerospace (GE), JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Cisco Systems (CSCO) all go ex-dividend.
Micron pays on July 21, GE on July 27, JPMorgan on July 31 and Cisco on July 22.
On Tuesday, Dollar General (DG) goes ex-dividend, with a July 21 payout.
The New York Times (NYT) goes ex-dividend on Wednesday and will pay shareholders on July 23.
Accenture (ACN) and Mastercard (MA) both go ex-dividend on Thursday.
Accenture pays on August 14, while Mastercard's payout is August 7.
On Friday, AT&T (T), Verizon (VZ), Marvell Technology (MRVL), Toll Brothers (TOL), Oracle (ORCL) and Lennar (LEN) all go ex-dividend.
AT&T pays out on August 3. Verizon pays out on August 3, with Marvell on July 30 and Toll Brothers, Lennar and Oracle on July 24.
Meta Platforms (META 4.80%) has been a jarring growth stock over the past year. It's down by 15% year to date, but its fundamentals continue to improve. The stock only trades at a price-to-earnings ratio of 20 and has solid growth rates already, so a single catalyst could result in a meaningful rally.
Reality Labs could be the catalyst. It's the AI hardware part of Meta Platforms' business that includes Quest headsets and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. Here's what investors should know.
Image source: Getty Images.
Meta Glasses can become a major hit Meta Glasses are an innovative technology that let you take pictures, speak with AI tools, make and receive calls, and type on virtual surfaces just by wearing them. You don't have to pull out a smartphone to do any of those things anymore.
Meta Platforms debuted Meta Glasses in June with prices starting at $224. Payment plans are available starting at $19 per month, which lasts for two years at 0% APR. These prices are well within the ballpark of what many people can pay, including the $19 monthly plan. This technology is no longer science fiction, and just as importantly, it's more accessible to the average consumer.
While Meta Platforms released smart glasses a few years ago that had a relatively muted reception, those smart glasses were technologically limited and had no AI capabilities. They just let you take pictures using your glasses instead of taking out your smartphone. They were pretty much cameras with no other features. These current AI glasses are far more advanced, which can help them generate more traction.
The company has a massive head start compared to competitors in this new industry. It controls 85% of the AI glasses industry and already has 3.56 billion daily active users on its family of apps, which is a 4% year-over-year increase. Meta Platforms can promote its AI Glasses to its vast user base to get quick momentum and preserve its comfortable lead over competitors.
Having control over a high-potential industry remains compelling. Grand View Research projects a 24.2% CAGR for the smart glasses market through 2033, but the research company also estimates that the smart glasses market is only worth $3.2 billion. If it gets anywhere close to the smartphone market's $556.4 billion total valuation, this early start will be massive.
The success of Meta's AI Glasses should make it much easier for the company to sell other consumer hardware, similar to how Apple sells iPhones and MacBooks. The AI Glasses segment may be a sleeping giant, and the stock's 20 P/E ratio leaves a lot of room for upside momentum if that proves to be the case.
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Meta Platforms is already delivering high growth rates Even though Meta Platforms' stock has been stuck in the mud for more than a year, it continues to gain market share in the online advertising industry. Revenue surged by 33% year over year in Q1, with operating income rising by 30%. Meta Platforms closed out the first quarter with a robust 41% operating profit margin, which makes the current valuation even more baffling.
Meta Platforms' vast amount of capital and high profits make it easier to invest heavily into projects like AI Glasses until they become profitable. AI Glasses can also give Meta Platforms' advertising revenue a boost by creating more ad impressions.
Meta AI Glasses don't have to make up a big portion of total revenue right now. Just an announcement in the upcoming Q2 earnings release that shows meaningful momentum in this segment, combined with results investors have become accustomed to, may be enough to trigger a rally.
Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA | TSLA Price Prediction) and BYD (OTC:BYDDF) sit at opposite poles of the electric vehicle world.
Tesla just posted a sharp Q1 margin rebound while pouring cash into robotics and autonomy. BYD, the world’s largest new energy vehicle maker by volume, keeps flooding global markets with affordable EVs and plug-in hybrids. The businesses barely resemble each other anymore, which is exactly why this quarter is worth comparing.
Margin Recovery Lifts Tesla. Volume and Vertical Integration Anchor BYD. Tesla’s Q1 2026 print was a genuine turnaround quarter. Revenue hit $22.387 billion, up 15.78% year over year, and automotive gross margin snapped back to 21.1% from 16.2%. Operating income jumped 135.84% to $941 million. That is a real profitability inflection after a brutal 2025, when full year net income fell 46.79%.
The mix tells the story. Services and other revenue climbed 42% as FSD active subscriptions reached 1.28 million, up 51% year over year. Software is finally showing up in the P&L. Energy revenue slipped 12%, a rare soft spot after a record 2025.
BYD’s business runs on a different engine. It builds Blade Battery cells in-house, sells across the Dynasty, Ocean, Denza, Yangwang, and Fang Cheng Bao brands, and pushes hard into Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Chairman Wang Chuanfu has kept the company obsessively focused on cost per vehicle and battery supply, not autonomy software.
Robotaxi Bet vs. Sub-$15,000 EV Bet Lens Tesla BYD Core bet FSD, Robotaxi, Optimus Affordable EVs and PHEVs at scale Vertical edge Custom AI silicon with SpaceX fab Blade Battery and in-house electronics Key vulnerability Autonomy timelines slipping China tariffs in EU and US Tesla’s $1.95 billion R&D quarter, unsupervised Robotaxi launches in Dallas and Houston, and Optimus lines designed for 1 million robots per year in Fremont point to a software and robotics endgame. Prediction markets are less convinced. Polymarket traders put only a 0.1 probability on an Optimus release by year-end and just 0.22 on a California Robotaxi launch by December 31.
BYD is taking a different path, undercutting legacy automakers on sticker price and betting anti-involution policy support flagged by Morningstar will consolidate share toward Chinese EV conglomerates such as BYD and Geely.
Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and Tesla didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
Deliveries, Tariffs, and Whether Software Revenue Compounds I will be watching Tesla’s Q2 delivery cadence, the Cybercab pilot ramp at Gigafactory Texas, and whether FSD subscriber growth keeps compounding above 50%.
For BYD, tariff outcomes in Europe and export volumes into ASEAN and Brazil are the swing factors. You should also keep an eye on battery pack capacity, which Tesla flagged as its limiting factor on vehicle production.
Why I Lean Toward BYD on Value, Tesla on Optionality Tesla trades at a forward P/E of 217 with a $421.16 analyst target against a current $393.45. The stock is down 12.51% year to date after a 7.49% single-day drop.
BYD shares sit at $10.20, off 34.3% over one year. If I want optionality on autonomy and robotics, Tesla is the vehicle, and I accept the multiple.
In case I want an operationally excellent, cash-generative automaker at a beaten-down price, BYD looks more interesting to me. If input costs and tariff policy stay volatile, I would rather wait than force either position.
Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and Tesla didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
I keep buying Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG | GOOG Price Prediction) because every quarter it hands me a new reason to. This is the one AI position where the receipts arrive on schedule, the moat is visible in the numbers, and the price still lets me add without holding my nose. I am compounding into a business that is now printing cash on a scale most companies will never approach.
Google owns the front door to the internet and is turning that traffic into an AI toll road while the rest of the industry is still building on-ramps.
When Sundar Pichai said on the Q1 call, “We are genuinely differentiated. We’re unique in the market because of our vertically optimized AI stack”, I read it as a description of the income statement. Custom TPUs, Gemini models, Cloud, Search, YouTube, Android, Waymo. One company, one stack, one cash engine.
The numbers that keep my finger on the buy button Q1 2026 EPS came in at $5.11 against a $2.63 consensus, a 94.10% beat and the fourth consecutive EPS beat. Revenue hit $109.90 billion, up 21.8% year over year, with operating income at $39.70 billion and a 36.1% operating margin. Full year 2025 revenue crossed $402.84 billion for the first time. Return on equity sits at 38.9%.
Google Cloud revenue grew 63% year over year to $20.03 billion, and backlog nearly doubled quarter on quarter to over $460 billion. Cloud operating margin expanded from 17.8% a year ago to 32.9%.
Gemini is running at 16 billion tokens per minute through the API, up from 10 billion the prior quarter, and GenAI product revenue grew nearly 800% year over year. This is enterprise money landing.
Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and Google didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
Alphabet raised its quarterly dividend 5% to $0.22 per share, sits on $38.06 billion in cash against $478.75 billion in shareholders’ equity, and trades at a trailing P/E of 27 and a forward P/E of 25. Fifty-eight buy ratings, zero sells.
The stock is up 98.71% over the past year and 13.65% year to date, and I am still adding.
The risk I am not glossing over The real concern is capital intensity. CapEx more than doubled year over year to $35.67 billion in Q1, and management now guides 2026 CapEx to $180 billion to $190 billion, with 2027 expected to increase further. Free cash flow fell 46.63% year over year to $10.12 billion. If AI demand cools before those data centers are paid for, the return on that spend gets ugly.
That $460 billion Cloud backlog is a signed answer to the demand question. CFO Anat Ashkenazi called it “unprecedented internal and external demand for AI compute resources”, and Pichai flatly said the company is “compute constrained”. When customers are lined up and you cannot ship fast enough, spending is a moat.
Search revenue still grew 19% to $60.40 billion, paid subscriptions crossed 350 million, and Waymo is doing over 500,000 fully autonomous rides per week. I own a search company, a cloud company, an AI lab, a video platform, and a robotaxi operator inside one ticker at a market multiple. That is why I cannot stop buying.
Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and Google didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
Despite a growing number of headwinds, the S&P 500 (^GSPC +0.00%) has continued its march higher in 2026. The benchmark index was up 9.6% through the first half of the year, even amid an ongoing war in Iran that sent oil prices spiking. While we expected the Fed to lower interest rates in 2026, it's now more likely we'll see one or two interest rate hikes before the end of the year. Meanwhile, stock valuations have climbed to their highest level in history, outside the dot-com bubble, according to certain measures.
But the biggest warning signal that the bull market may be closer to the end than the start is coming from three companies: Space Exploration Technologies (SPCX +2.69%), better known as SpaceX, Alphabet (GOOG 0.37%) (GOOGL 0.23%), Google's parent company, and SK Hynix, one of the leading memory chipmakers.
Here's what investors need to know.
Image source: Getty Images.
Setting new records on Wall Street The above three companies all made history in recent weeks.
Alphabet issued $85 billion worth of stock on June 2, the largest public equity raise in Wall Street history. SpaceX outdid Alphabet with its initial public offering on June 12, which ultimately raised $86 billion after the underwriters exercised their option to buy additional shares, making it the biggest IPO in history. SK Hynix, a Korean company, is set to list American depository receipts on the Nasdaq in a few weeks, raising up to $29 billion. That would be a record amount for an ADR. These companies are seeking substantial capital from investors. And not only are they receiving it, but they're getting even more than they initially asked for. Alphabet initially planned to raise $80 billion, and SpaceX's IPO was meant to raise $75 billion. Combined, the three companies will raise about $200 billion.
$200 billion in cash doesn't just appear out of nowhere. Investors have to sell other assets to put up that money. Most likely, they're selling other securities, which will put pressure on the rest of the stock market. With more giant IPOs coming down the pipeline and more SpaceX shares entering the market post-lockup, there's still a huge amount of money that will shift in the market.
But these equity raises may signal something that could have a much bigger impact on long-term stock returns from here.
Why are these companies using equity to raise capital? It's worth noting that all three companies are well-positioned to raise capital in the bond market rather than the stock market. Alphabet and SK Hynix, in particular, are immensely profitable companies with strong balance sheets that could take on more debt at relatively low interest rates.
To be sure, Alphabet added $31 billion in long-term debt to its balance sheet in the first quarter, but ultimately raised much more using equity. Even the unprofitable SpaceX has had no challenges raising capital via the bond market. It recently issued $25 billion in debt, more than its original plan to raise $20 billion from the market, after receiving $90 billion worth of orders.
The fact that these companies are tapping their equity for cash suggests they see the stock market as willing to pay premium prices for equity right now. That's certainly true, as the equity risk premium (the difference between the earnings yield and the yield on Treasury bonds) has shrunk to nearly nothing. In other words, it may be cheaper for these businesses to give up a portion of future earnings than to take on debt at their current valuations. After all, they can retire shares through buybacks in the future when their cash needs aren't as substantial.
But everyday investors should heed the warning that these companies are sending. Stocks are expensive right now, and it's a seller's market. That doesn't mean a market crash is imminent, but it does mean investors need to carefully consider a business's long-term value creation relative to its current market price and its cost of capital.
NEW YORK, July 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) and certain of its officers.
This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Microsoft securities between May 1, 2025 and January 28, 2026, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: bgandg.com/MSFT.
Microsoft Case Details
The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements because they failed to disclose that:
(1) Microsoft’s Copilot family of products had experienced significant brand positioning, user experience, usage, data siloing, computational capacity, organizational, and interoperability problems;
(2) Microsoft’s flagship proprietary AI model ranked well below competitors on a number of benchmark tests;
(3) Microsoft needed to increase by billions of dollars its capital expenditures and divert graphics processing unit (“GPU”) and central processing unit (“CPU”) capacity away from fulfilling demand for its profitable Azure services in order to improve the competitive positioning of its critical Copilot family of products and increase its AI-related research and development (“R&D”); and
(4) as a result of the above, Microsoft had failed to convert a significant percentage of its commercial Microsoft 365 users to paid Copilot subscriptions and Microsoft’s Copilot offerings had lost market share to rival products, a trend that was increasing.
What's Next for Microsoft Investors?
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm’s site: bgandg.com/MSFT. or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in Microsoft you have until August 11, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to Microsoft Investors
We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys’ fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.
Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for Microsoft Securities Class Action?
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com
"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.
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Contact Info
Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or Nathan Miller
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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Artificial intelligence has become the defining investment story of this decade. Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA | NVDA Price Prediction), Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG), and a handful of other technology giants are on pace to spend well over $1 trillion building the infrastructure needed to power AI, from advanced semiconductors and data centers to power grids and networking equipment.
Wall Street has largely viewed that spending as inevitable. As long as AI adoption keeps accelerating, investors assume the money will continue flowing. But the world’s central banks appear increasingly uncomfortable with exactly how that expansion is being financed.
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) — the “central bank for central banks” — used its latest Annual Economic Report to warn about concentrated AI investment, growing leverage, opaque financing arrangements, and expanding links between traditional banks and private credit markets. While the report never explicitly says regulators want to slow artificial intelligence, many of its recommendations would do precisely that by making the capital fueling the AI boom significantly more expensive — and potentially much harder to obtain.
For investors, that’s a risk the market may be dramatically underestimating.
AI Doesn’t Just Run on Chips. It Runs on Credit. The AI revolution is often portrayed as being financed by cash-rich technology companies. That’s only part of the story.
Even companies generating tens of billions of dollars in annual free cash flow are borrowing aggressively because AI infrastructure spending is occurring faster than internally generated cash can support. Corporate bond issuance has surged while banks have become critical financiers of everything from semiconductor fabrication plants and hyperscale data centers to power infrastructure and cloud expansion.
The current AI buildout isn’t simply a technology boom. It’s a credit boom. That distinction matters because credit cycles have a long history of ending far more abruptly than technology cycles.
Banks would lose much of their ability to use proprietary internal models that often classify large corporate loans as relatively safe. Instead, regulators would require standardized risk calculations, stricter operational risk requirements, tougher market-risk rules under the Fundamental Review of the Trading Book, expanded recognition of unrealized losses, and higher capital requirements for globally systemic banks.
Every one of those changes points in the same direction. Banks would need to commit considerably more capital to support large, complex technology loans. That doesn’t eliminate financing, but it makes it substantially more difficult and expensive.
The Risk Is Bigger Than Higher Borrowing Costs Many investors assume that higher financing costs simply slow growth. The BIS report suggests something more dangerous.
Today’s AI investment boom depends on a continuous flow of capital. Companies are spending enormous sums today based on expectations that tomorrow’s AI revenues will justify the investment. If financing becomes more restrictive, companies may begin delaying projects, scaling back data center construction, or prioritizing only their highest-return initiatives.
That wouldn’t just affect hyperscalers. Chipmakers, networking companies, equipment suppliers, utilities, construction firms, and countless AI startups all depend on that spending pipeline remaining intact.
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The risk is reflexive. Less financing leads to slower capital spending. Slower spending weakens revenue growth across the AI ecosystem. Lower growth compresses stock valuations, making raising new capital even more difficult. That leads to further spending reductions, creating a self-reinforcing cycle that can accelerate surprisingly quickly.
Markets often assume trends continue indefinitely — until they don’t.
Private Credit Isn’t the Safety Valve Investors Think Many bulls argue private credit can simply replace traditional bank lending if Basel III limits bank financing. The BIS appears to have anticipated that argument.
Its report repeatedly warns that risk migrating from regulated banks into private credit doesn’t reduce systemic risk — it merely hides it. Private credit funds have become major lenders to technology companies precisely because they operate with fewer regulatory constraints. But that freedom comes with vulnerabilities.
The sector has experienced rising defaults, increasing use of payment-in-kind financing that allows troubled borrowers to defer cash interest payments, growing redemption pressure from investors, and significant concentration in technology lending.
The BIS argues that allowing AI financing to migrate wholesale into shadow banking simply creates a different kind of financial instability. Its long-term solution is to extend tougher oversight to private credit as well through leverage limits, enhanced reporting requirements, and stricter collateral standards.
In other words, regulators don’t just want to tighten bank lending. They want to tighten the entire credit ecosystem supporting speculative investment.
Key Takeaway Investors ignore the big picture at their own peril. Artificial intelligence is a transformative technology, but one that still requires capital.
Railroads transformed America despite repeated financial panics. The internet revolution survived the dot-com bust. Revolutionary technologies often outlive the speculative bubbles built around them. That’s why investors should distinguish between AI’s long-term future and today’s financing model.
Current valuations assume years of uninterrupted capital spending and virtually unlimited access to financing. The BIS is signaling that the era of easy money and lightly regulated credit may be coming to an end.
If global regulators successfully restrict both bank lending and private credit while central banks keep interest rates elevated, they won’t necessarily kill artificial intelligence. But they could dismantle the financial engine powering today’s AI spending boom.
And if that engine stalls, investors may discover that the biggest risk to AI stocks wasn’t competition or slowing demand. It was credit all along.
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The financial plumbing of the global economy is undergoing a rewrite. For the better part of a decade, the issuance of stablecoins, digital dollars living on blockchain networks, was largely monopolized by crypto-native firms. Traditional payment processors appeared to be watching from the sidelines, occasionally announcing small-scale pilot programs. That dynamic was shattered this week.
The launch of Open USD by a 140-member consortium marks the aggressive institutional capture of decentralized payment infrastructure. By redistributing reserve interest directly to network partners, traditional financial processors are weaponizing shared-yield tokenomics against early market entrants. Legacy networks are successfully scaling the digital dollar while actively dismantling the proprietary moats of pure-play crypto issuers.
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The GENIUS Act and the Green Light for Legacy CapitalTo understand the magnitude of this shift, look back to the July 2025 passage of the GENIUS Act. This regulatory framework provided the federal compliance structure that traditional finance demanded.
Visa Today
V
Visa
$361.31 -0.82 (-0.23%)
As of 07/2/2026 03:59 PM Eastern
This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.
52-Week Range$293.89▼
$362.13Dividend Yield0.74%
P/E Ratio31.47
Price Target$397.96
Legacy players like Visa Inc. NYSE: V and Mastercard NYSE: MA have never ignored the blockchain space. They were waiting for the legal green light to deploy capital at scale without risking entrenched legacy businesses.
With regulatory clarity secured, the broader fintech ecosystem moved rapidly. Stripe laid the operational groundwork by acquiring the stablecoin platform Bridge for $1.1 billion, placing seasoned operators at the helm of a new standard.
The result is the Open Standard consortium, a massive alliance featuring Visa, Stripe, BlackRock NYSE: BLK, Alphabet NASDAQ: GOOGL, and Coinbase NASDAQ: COIN. This is not a defensive maneuver by traditional finance. It is an aggressive, calculated infrastructure upgrade designed to own the rails of cross-border money movement.
Tokenomics 2.0: Siphoning the Crypto YieldLet us take a moment to unpack the structural evolution introduced by Open USD, as it directly attacks the core business model of first-generation stablecoins. When an institution mints a legacy stablecoin, they hand over fiat currency, and the issuer deposits those funds into short-term U.S. Treasuries. The issuer then keeps the yield generated by those reserves. When interest rates are high, this model prints exceptional cash flow.
Open USD operates on a shared-yield architecture. Instead of hoarding treasury interest at the issuer level, the Open Standard consortium redistributes that yield back to the network partners who facilitate transactions. They also eliminated minting and redemption fees. This creates a zero-friction, yield-generating asset for enterprise partners, instantly rendering proprietary, closed-loop stablecoin models uncompetitive.
A Leaky Moat: Circle's Margin Compression CrisisCircle Internet Group Today
CRCL
Circle Internet Group
$64.56 -0.06 (-0.10%)
As of 07/2/2026 03:59 PM Eastern
This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.
52-Week Range$49.90▼
$262.97Price Target$117.38
This architectural shift presents an existential threat to companies heavily reliant on the legacy model. Circle Internet Group NYSE: CRCL generates roughly 99% of revenue from the interest earned on the reserves backing the USDC stablecoin. When the core product is commoditized by a consortium offering better economics to distributors, the resulting margin compression is rapid and severe.
The most glaring signal of this structural vulnerability is the defection of primary ecosystem partners. Coinbase previously served as a massive distribution hub for USDC. In 2024 alone, Coinbase extracted $908 million from Circle in distribution and revenue-sharing agreements.
With the launch of Open USD, Coinbase has joined the Open Standard alliance. The economic incentive is clear. Rather than taking a negotiated cut from a third-party issuer like Circle, exchange networks and payment processors can utilize Open USD to internalize the reserve yields directly. This supply chain defection forces Circle into an impossible corner. To retain enterprise distributors, Circle must either slash fees to zero or give up reserve yield. Both options eviscerate profitability.
$20 Billion Buybacks and Unstoppable MarginsCircle Internet Group Stock Forecast Today12-Month Stock Price Forecast:
$117.38
81.82% Upside
Hold
Based on 24 Analyst Ratings
Current Price$64.56High Forecast$190.00Average Forecast$117.38Low Forecast$55.00Circle Internet Group Stock Forecast Details
The market is already pricing in the collapse of the proprietary stablecoin moat. Shares of Circle Internet Group have faced severe downward pressure, currently trading near $62 after dropping nearly 21% since the start of the year. Circle recently reported quarterly earnings that reflect the strain, with earnings per share (EPS) missing estimates by 6 cents and net margins languishing at negative 2.76%.
Institutional sentiment is rapidly souring on the pure-play crypto issuer. Short interest in Circle rose to 45.4% month over month, now representing 10.06% of the public float.
A short squeeze requires an underlying bullish catalyst, but the structural degradation of the business model provides exactly the opposite. Internal confidence appears equally shaken. Insiders have executed zero open-market purchases over the last six months, instead heavily distributing shares, dumping over $158 million in stock over the past 90 days. Wall Street analysts are aggressively revising valuation models, with Compass Point aggressively slashing its price target on Circle from $97 down to $55.
As capital flees the vulnerable pure-play issuers, it is rotating heavily into the legacy networks, leading the Open USD charge. Visa is one of the primary beneficiaries of this institutional capture. Visa is currently trading near $351 and boasts a market capitalization exceeding $630 billion.
Visa is demonstrating exactly how to leverage an entrenched market position to capture new technology. Integrating Open USD into globally ubiquitous payment rails neutralizes the threat that decentralized finance will disrupt cross-border revenue.
Visa Stock Forecast Today12-Month Stock Price Forecast:
$397.96
10.14% Upside
Buy
Based on 26 Analyst Ratings
Current Price$361.31High Forecast$450.00Average Forecast$397.96Low Forecast$350.00Visa Stock Forecast Details
The fundamentals backing Visa are pristine. Visa recently posted $3.31 EPS, easily beating consensus estimates of $3.10, driven by a 17.1% year-over-year revenue expansion. Profitability metrics remain exceptional, featuring a 51.68% net margin and a massive 65.00% return on equity. A forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 26.84 is entirely reasonable for a network poised to capture the next generation of digital payments.
Analysts are taking note of the expanded moat. Piper Sandler recently upgraded Visa from overweight to a strong buy, citing confidence in its cross-border transaction strategy and resilient consumer discretionary spending.
While Circle faces insider distribution, the Visa board is signaling confidence in the current valuation and future cash flows. Visa recently initiated a $20 billion share repurchase program. This authorization acts as a massive macro tailwind for Visa, providing structural support to the share price while management executes the digital asset expansion. Share buybacks of this magnitude tell you exactly how Visa leadership views its own strategic positioning.
Plugging the Leaks in Your Crypto PortfolioThe era of digital assets existing in a silo outside the traditional financial system is over. The 140-member consortium behind Open USD proves that legacy payment processors possess both the capital and the strategic foresight to absorb disruptive technologies. By weaponizing shared-yield economics, Visa and other legacy giants are capturing the multi-trillion-dollar stablecoin market while systematically dismantling the business models of early crypto-native pioneers.
Investors navigating the shifting payments sector might consider evaluating the durability of revenue streams. Portfolios heavily weighted toward single-product crypto firms reliant on proprietary yield models face significant structural risk. Conversely, adding exposure to entrenched, highly profitable networks executing large volume share repurchases offers a compelling way to capture the upside of the digital dollar's global expansion.
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Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX | SBUX Price Prediction) and Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG) just delivered two of the most instructive turnaround updates in restaurants.
Starbucks posted its clearest inflection yet under Brian Niccol. Chipotle, still working through a full year of negative comps, leaned harder on unit growth and menu innovation. Same sector, two very different scoreboards.
Coffee Traffic Comes Back. Burrito Traffic Still Hasn’t. Starbucks’ Q2 FY2026 report showed global comparable store sales up 6.2%, with transactions up 3.8% and ticket up 2.3%. North America comps ran 7.1%, driven by real foot traffic rather than pricing. Revenue landed at $9.53 billion, up 8.79% year over year, and non-GAAP EPS of $0.50 beat the $0.44 estimate.
Niccol called it plainly: “Our second quarter marked the turn in our turnaround as our Back to Starbucks plan drove both top and bottom line growth.”
Chipotle’s Q4 2025 print told a rougher story. Comparable restaurant sales fell 2.5% on a 3.2% transaction decline, and restaurant-level operating margin compressed to 23.4% from 24.8%. EPS of $0.25 squeaked past the $0.24 consensus, but 2025 was Chipotle’s first full year of negative comp sales.
CEO Scott Boatwright framed it as resilience, pointing to “the early success of our high-protein menu and benefits from our high-efficiency equipment package.”
Back to Starbucks vs. Recipe for Growth The strategic playbooks diverge more than the branding suggests. Starbucks is defending traffic with a reimagined three-tier Rewards program (Green, Gold, Reserve), a restructured China joint venture where Boyu Capital holds 60%, and plans for 600 to 650 net new coffeehouses in FY26.
Chipotle is buying growth with concrete: 334 openings in 2025 and 350 to 370 planned for 2026, roughly 80% with a Chipotlane.
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Lens Starbucks Chipotle Comp trend +6.2% global -2.5% Traffic +3.8% transactions -3.2% transactions Growth engine Rewards, China JV, ticket mix New units, high-protein menu, AI Capital return $0.62 quarterly dividend $2.43B buybacks in 2025 FY26 comp guide ≥5% Approximately flat Valuations reflect the mood. Starbucks trades at a P/E of 79, priced like the turnaround is confirmed. Chipotle sits at 32, with a forward multiple of 30, cheaper but attached to shrinking traffic. Consumer spending on Food Services keeps rising, hitting $1,538.3 billion in May 2026, so this is not a macro problem. It is a share problem.
The Next Test Is Whether Chipotle Can Fix Traffic Watch three things. First, whether Starbucks holds North America transaction momentum against a 170 bps margin contraction from labor investments, tariffs, and coffee pricing.
Second, whether Chipotle’s high-protein menu and equipment rollout can flip transactions positive after four straight negative quarters.
Third, capital allocation. Starbucks is protecting its 64th consecutive quarter of dividends despite negative shareholders’ equity of $8.5 billion. Chipotle is buying back stock aggressively, with $1.7 billion remaining on the authorization.
Why I Lean Toward Starbucks Today, But Keep Chipotle on the Bench I lean Starbucks right now. The data actually supports the story Niccol is telling, and shares are up 25.36% year to date at $104.27. That said, a 79 P/E leaves little room for a stumble, and insiders have been net sellers.
Chipotle looks more interesting for turnaround investors comfortable with volatility. The stock is down 37.66% over the past year to $35.39, yet analysts still carry a $42.88 target and 26 buy or strong-buy ratings. If Boatwright gets transactions positive by mid-2026, that gap closes fast. Until then, I want to see one clean quarter of positive traffic before I would step in.
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After years of decline, Intel (INTC 5.61%) appears to be on track for a dramatic comeback. Under the leadership of Lip-Bu Tan, investors are becoming increasingly confident that Intel can remain a player in the semiconductor industry.
Nonetheless, Intel stock has risen by about 425% over the past year, taking its stock price and valuation to elevated levels. Thus, the question for investors is whether that stock price growth will undermine the chip stock's performance over the next five years.
Image source: The Motley Fool.
The Intel comeback Without question, Intel had been on the decline since the early part of the last decade. Innovation began to slow after the retirement and passing of its founders. That created openings for its longtime rival Advanced Micro Devices to overtake it technically and for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) to surpass it as a manufacturer.
Moreover, even when the previous CEO Pat Gelsinger attempted to make it a market leader in central processing units (CPUs) and third-party manufacturing, Nvidia's development of AI accelerators appeared to push it further behind.
Fortunately, Tan, the CEO who transformed Cadence Design Systems, appears poised to make Intel more competitive. As previously mentioned, Intel has mastered the 18A manufacturing process, which can produce chips as small as 1.8 nanometers (nms), allowing it to pioneer next-generation AI processors.
With that, he has begun to transform Intel into a company that could compete in manufacturing with TSMC on some levels, helping to reassert America's relevance in chip manufacturing.
Additionally, CPUs have become increasingly critical in data centers for managing workflows for CPUs. With Tan revamping Intel's business, this development bodes well for the company, particularly since Grand View Research projects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29% for the AI chip market through 2030.
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Intel by the numbers Unfortunately, even after Intel's massive AI rally, the aforementioned stock gains appear largely based on speculation. Its $13.6 billion in revenue for the first quarter of 2026 was up 7% year over year. That improved over the 4% revenue decline in 2025 but is a far cry from the massive revenue growth of Nvidia and TSMC.
Moreover, its $3.7 billion net loss in Q1 follows its $0.6 billion net loss in 2025. Also, even though growth should improve, analysts forecast 11% revenue growth in 2026, with only a marginal improvement projected in 2027. Thus, it will likely take years to match the growth rate of competitors, if it gets there at all.
Furthermore, Intel has no price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio on a GAAP basis. Still, even after its considerable stock gains, Intel's 11 price-to-sales (P/S) ratio lags its largest competitors. That indicates that investors should probably not sell Intel stock on valuation concerns.
INTC PS Ratio data by YCharts.
Still, as previously mentioned, much of the stock gains are likely tied to speculation. Hence, with Intel's comparatively modest revenue growth, the lower sales multiple does not necessarily reflect a discount when considering its peers' revenue growth.
Ultimately, it is probably too early to tell where Intel will be over the next five years, but I think the stock will outperform the market over that time frame.
Admittedly, five-year projections on stock prices are speculative by their nature. This is especially true for Intel, since the recent financials and near-term projections point to considerably more modest growth than its nearest competitors are likely to report.
Nonetheless, Tan has earned a reputation for orchestrating turnarounds in his industry, and the breakthrough with the 18A process technology confirms that success. That advancement also serves as a tangible indication that Intel can better compete with AMD in the CPU market and with TSMC in manufacturing. That means investors should expect accelerated revenue growth if Grand View's projected CAGR is any indication.
When it comes to individual investors, Intel probably remains too speculative for the risk-averse. However, with an appetite for risk, one has an excellent chance of outperforming the market with Intel stock over the next five years despite the recent run-up in the stock price.
Shares in Intel Corporation (INTC 5.61%) soared by 21.8% in June, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. There are probably two reasons for the increase, and both speak to the business's longer-term growth potential.
Intel and Apple make an agreement? While its important to note that neither company has confirmed reaching an agreement, in mid-June President Trump announced that Apple (AAPL +4.88%) amd Intel had reached an agreement that they would design and manufacture chips in the U.S. The deal, if confirmed, would be good news for Intel's foundry business as it tries to build scale and better compete with market leader Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM 2.15%).
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A deal would also be in line with the Trump administration's determination to encourage domestic manufacturing, and particularly with key technology providers like Apple. For example, the administration invested and entered into a public-private partnership with rare-earth company MP Materials in July of last year, which was closely followed by a $500 million long-term supply agreement for rare earth magnets between MP Materials and Apple. Given that the Trump administration also invested in Intel in 2025 (acquiring 10% of the company), it's reasonable to expect more pressure for an Apple/Intel deal.
Intel's core business has growth prospects Intel's core business of making central processing units (CPUs) is often seen as secondary to the AI data center build-out, as graphics processing units (GPUs) from Nvidia and others have grabbed attention. GPUs are specialized for building and training large language models (LLMs) and are therefore essential to the buildout of AI infrastructure. Meanwhile, CPUs are used relatively more for inference, such as the AI applications that agents actually run.
Image source: Getty Images.
Indeed, Intel CFO David Zinsner noted on the April earnings call that the GPU-to-CPU ratio in training solutions was up to 8:1, but could drop to 3:1 in inference. He expounded on those remarks in June at a Bank of America technology conference, stating, "the ratio of CPUs to GPUs is growing meaningfully as we get from training to inference, inference to agentic and multiagent and reinforced learning. So it's just going to drive a lot of CPU requirements."
As the market's recognition of the longer-term growth potential in inference AI spending crystallizes, Intel's role in CPU manufacturing will likely be better recognized.
Where next for Intel An Apple deal would be good news, and its confirmation would probably be good news for the stock. Meanwhile, the ongoing recognition of the growing importance of inference spending should also create upside potential for the stock.
Bank of America is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Lee Samaha has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple, Intel, MP Materials, Nvidia, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.