If you purchased or acquired Graphic Packaging securities between February 4, 2025 and February 2, 2026 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Bragar Eagel & Squire partner Brandon Walker or Melissa Fortunato directly at (212) 355-4648.
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NEW YORK, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
What’s Happening?
Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C., a nationally recognized stockholder rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Graphic Packaging Holding Company (“Graphic Packaging” or the “Company”) (NYSE: GPK) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Graphic Packaging securities between February 4, 2025 and February 2, 2026, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”).Investors have until July 6, 2026 to apply to the Court to be appointed as lead plaintiff in the lawsuit. What are the Allegation Details?
The lawsuit alleges that Defendants made false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose material adverse facts regarding Graphic Packaging’s business, operations, and prospects, including allegations that: (i) Graphic Packaging was experiencing significant inventory management issues, as well as significantly reduced demand and volumes and increased costs; (ii) Defendants downplayed the true scope and severity of the foregoing issues, which were likely to, and did, have a material negative impact on the Company’s business and financial results; (iii) Defendants likewise overstated the strength and sustainability of the Company’s business model and operations, as well as its ability to weather ongoing macroeconomic headwinds; and (iv) accordingly, the Company’s previously issued FY 2025 financial guidance was unreliable and/or unrealistic.
What are my Next Steps?
If you purchased or otherwise acquired Graphic Packaging shares and suffered a loss, are a long-term stockholder, have information, would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Brandon Walker or Melissa Fortunato by email at [email protected], telephone at (212) 355-4648, or by filling out this contact form. There is no cost or obligation to you.
About Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C.:
Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is a nationally recognized law firm with offices in New York, South Carolina, and California. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in securities, derivative, and commercial litigation as well as individuals in consumer protection and data privacy litigation. The firm has a nationwide practice and routinely handles cases in both federal and state courts. For more information about the firm, please visit www.bespc.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 2, 2026) - 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.
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Source: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arizona Public Service (APS) announced today it plans to convert two units at its Cholla Power Plant in Joseph City, Navajo County, Arizona to natural gas. The repurposed resource, with operations beginning in 2029, will help meet the state’s growing energy demand while maintaining reliable, affordable electric service for customers.
Originally commissioned in 1962, the Cholla Power Plant played a vital role in powering Arizona for decades, providing a critical power supply to the state. Beginning in the last decade, federal environmental mandates forced the phased retirement of the plant’s coal units, completed in March 2025. APS plans to convert two units at the site to natural gas, preserving its legacy in the state while leveraging existing transmission lines and infrastructure to support Arizona’s energy future.
“Cholla has been an important part of the communities of Joseph City, Holbrook, Navajo County and northeastern Arizona for decades and has been foundational to Arizona’s energy grid,” said Johnny Penrod, APS Vice President of Generation. “Repurposing the Cholla Power Plant for natural gas allows us to build on that legacy – supporting reliable, affordable energy for our customers while continuing to invest in the communities who have long supported this plant.”
Navajo County Supervisor Jason Whiting, who frequently met with APS leadership to advocate for Cholla to be converted to natural gas, expressed his appreciation for the company's decision. “I could not be more excited by this announcement," Whiting stated. "APS's decision to convert Cholla into a natural gas plant will strengthen our local economy, create jobs and support our schools. Even more importantly, it will help power our state with reliable, affordable energy.”
Supporting Arizona’s growth with a diverse energy mix
Arizona is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, and its energy needs are projected to rise significantly in the coming years. Transitioning the Cholla Power Plant to natural gas could:
Add approximately 380 megawatts (MW) of energy.Provide enough power to serve about 61,000 homes across Arizona.By repurposing an existing site, APS can provide customers with a cost-effective solution while strengthening reliability. Natural gas plays a key role by:
Its ability to provide around-the-clock power to meet customer needs at any time of the day.Responding quickly to changes in customer peak energy demand.Complementing renewable energy resources like solar and wind power and battery energy storage.The facility would further support APS’s diverse energy mix – which includes nuclear from the Palo Verde Generating Station, natural gas, coal, solar, wind and battery energy storage – ensuring top-tier, reliable service as Arizona continues to grow.
Renewed economic impact and community benefits
Repowering the Cholla site with natural gas is expected to provide meaningful economic benefits for Joseph City, Holbrook and surrounding communities by reinvigorating the plant’s presence in the region. The project will support hundreds of jobs during construction and, once in operation, is expected to provide several dozen permanent jobs to help run the facility. The plant will also provide meaningful tax revenue to the area and help stimulate new economic activity.
Looking ahead
Construction on the gas conversion is expected to begin in 2028 with a targeted in-service date in 2029. This project will need to go through formal permitting and planning processes and will include ongoing community outreach through open houses, newsletters and aps.com/chollaconversion.
APS serves 1.5 million homes and businesses in 11 of Arizona’s 15 counties and is a leader in safely delivering reliable, affordable electricity in the Southwest. With 140 years of experience serving Arizona, APS is the main subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW).
Key Takeaways PNW's capital plan aims to strengthen grid reliability and support long-term earnings growth. PNW plans nearly $7.95B in 2026-2028 investments across transmission, distribution and generation. PNW expects 4-6% retail sales growth in 2026, driven by manufacturing facilities and data centers. Pinnacle West Capital (PNW - Free Report) benefits from its strategic capital investment plan, which strengthens grid reliability, supports rising electricity demand and drives sustainable long-term earnings growth. These investments are aimed at improving system reliability, supporting customer growth and expanding the company's regulated asset base.
PNW aims to invest $2.6 billion in 2026 and nearly $7.95 billion during 2026-2028, allocating about $2.11 billion to transmission, $2.31 billion to distribution and $2.28 billion to generation infrastructure. These investments support a 7-9% rate base growth through 2028 and advance strategic transmission projects.
The company is witnessing strong growth in electricity demand, supported by sustained economic development across its service territory. Arizona continues to attract semiconductor manufacturers, large data centers and other large industrial customers that require 24x7 reliable power. The company expects retail electricity sales to grow 4-6% in 2026, driven primarily by expanding manufacturing facilities and data centers. It projects 5-7% annual weather-normalized sales growth through 2030. PNW is expanding its power infrastructure to meet growing demand and recover its investments through regulatory approvals.
The company continues to target 5-7% long-term EPS growth, supported by sustained infrastructure investment and increasing electricity demand. PNW's systematic capital allocation, expanding regulated rate base and constructive regulatory framework provide a solid foundation for future earnings growth.
Capital Investments Strengthening Regulated GrowthCapital investments strengthen regulated utility growth through grid modernization, transmission expansion, improved reliability and renewable integration. These investments expand the regulated asset base, support timely cost recovery and drive stable earnings and long-term growth.
FirstEnergy Corp. (FE - Free Report) expects to invest $36 billion over 2026-2030 to strengthen its regulated transmission and distribution business. The capital plan prioritizes grid modernization and infrastructure upgrades, supporting an estimated 10% compound annual rate base growth.
PPL Corporation (PPL - Free Report) plans to invest nearly $23 billion during 2026-2029, supporting an average annual rate base growth of 10.3%. These investments strengthen energy infrastructure, expand cleaner generation, improve reliability and maintain affordable electricity for customers.
PNW’s Earnings EstimatesThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates a decrease of 6.73% and an increase of 18.05%, respectively, year over year.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PNW’s Dividend YieldPNW currently offers a 3.42% dividend yield, exceeding the Electric Power industry 2.99% average over the past year.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PNW’s Stock Price PerformanceIn the past month, the company’s shares have risen 7% compared with the industry’s 3.3% growth.
A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Donaldson (DCI - Free Report) . Shares have added about 3.9% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.
Will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Donaldson due for a pullback? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at the most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important drivers.
Donaldson's Q3 Earnings & Revenues Top Estimates, Increase Y/YDonaldson reported third-quarter fiscal 2026 (ended April 30, 2026) adjusted earnings of $1.06 per share, which topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.05. The bottom line was up 7.1% on a year-over-year basis.
Revenue ResultsTotal revenues of $995.1 million surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $979 million. The top line increased 5.8% year over year.
Region-wise, Donaldson’s net sales in the United States/Canada increased 1.5% year over year to $427.1 million. Net sales increased 11.5% to $289.3 million in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Latin America generated net sales of $105.9 million, reflecting an increase of 4.4%. Also, net sales in the Asia Pacific improved 9.2% to $172.8 million.
Donaldson reports revenues under three segments, namely Mobile Solutions, Industrial Solutions and Life Sciences.
A brief snapshot of segmental sales is provided below.
The Mobile Solutions segment’s (accounting for 63.3% of net sales) sales were $629.9 million, indicating a year-over-year increase of 8.1%. Sales rose 8.8% in Off-Road and increased 5.2% in On-Road businesses during the quarter. Aftermarket sales improved 8.1% year over year.
Revenues generated from the Industrial Solutions segment (28.3%) were $281.7 million, down 0.6% year over year. Industrial Filtration Solutions' sales increased 2.3% year over year. Sales decline of 13.5% in the Aerospace and Defense businesses affected the results.
Revenues generated from the Life Sciences segment (8.4%) were $83.5 million, up 12.7% year over year. The results benefited from growth in new equipment volume in the Food & Beverage and Disk Drive businesses.
Donaldson’s Margin ProfileIn the fiscal third quarter, Donaldson’s cost of sales increased 7% year over year to $661.7 million. Gross profit increased 3.6% to $333.4 million. The gross margin of 33.5% declined 70 basis points due to operating inefficiencies associated with production shifts and costs related to footprint optimization initiatives. Selling, general and administrative expenses were $158.9 million, up 4.3% year over year.
Operating expenses were down 24% year over year to $178.1 million. Operating profit surged 77.7% to $155.3 million. The adjusted operating margin was 16.6%, up 30 bps year over year.
The adjusted effective tax rate was 23.8% compared with 22.1% in the year-ago quarter.
Balance Sheet & Cash FlowExiting the fiscal third quarter, Donaldson’s cash and cash equivalents were $204.1 million compared with $180.4 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025. Long-term debt was $591.6 million compared with $630.4 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025.
In the fiscal third quarter, the company generated net cash of $135.4 million from operating activities, indicating an increase of 54.4% year over year. Capital expenditure (net) totaled $23.8 million compared with $14.7 million in the year-ago fiscal quarter. Free cash flow increased 52.9% to $111.6 million.
It used $108.5 million to repurchase stocks and $104 million to pay out dividends during the first nine months of fiscal 2026.
Donaldson’s FY26 OutlookFor fiscal 2026 (ending July 2026), Donaldson expects adjusted earnings per share (EPS) to be in the range of $3.94-$4.01 compared with $3.68 in fiscal 2025. Organic sales are anticipated to increase 3-5% from the fiscal 2025 level.
On a segmental basis, Mobile Solutions’ sales are expected to increase 3.5-5.5% from the fiscal 2025 level. Industrial Solutions’ sales are envisioned to increase in the range of 0-2% from the year-ago figure. The company forecasts its Life Sciences segment’s sales to increase in the 9-11% range.
Interest expenses are predicted to be approximately $26 million, while other income is projected to be in the range of $17-$19 million. The effective tax rate is anticipated to be between 22% and 24%.
Capital expenditure is expected to be between $60 million and $75 million. Free cash flow conversion is anticipated to be in the range of 85-95%. Donaldson expects to repurchase 1.2% of its outstanding shares during the fiscal year.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?In the past month, investors have witnessed a downward trend in fresh estimates.
VGM ScoresAt this time, Donaldson has a average Growth Score of C, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with an F. However, the stock has a grade of C on the value side, putting it in the middle 20% for this investment strategy.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Notably, Donaldson has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.
MSC Industrial Direct Company, Inc. (NYSE:MSM) on Wednesday reported upbeat fiscal third-quarter 2026 results.
Adjusted earnings came in at $1.43 per share, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $1.26. Revenue increased 7.8% year over year to $1.047 billion, exceeding analysts’ expectations of $1.031 billion. Pricing contributed 720 basis points to growth, while volume added 50 basis points sequentially.
For the fiscal fourth quarter, MSC expects average daily sales growth of 6.5% to 8.5%, with June average daily sales projected to increase about 7%.
The company expects gross margin to decline 40 to 50 basis points sequentially because of normal seasonal trends. Adjusted operating margin is forecast to range between 10.0% and 10.8%, implying incremental operating margins in the mid-20% range.
MSC Industrial Direct shares rose 2.1% to trade at $125.90 on Thursday.
These analysts made changes to their price targets on MSC Industrial Direct following earnings announcement.
DA Davidson analyst Chris Dankert maintained the stock with a Buy and raised the price target from $145 to $150. Keybanc analyst Ken Newman maintained the stock with an Overweight rating and raised the price target from $132 to $145. Considering buying MSM stock? Here’s what analysts think:
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Key Takeaways MSC Industrial posted Q3 adjusted EPS of $1.43, rising 32.4% y/y and beating estimates.MSM's sales rose 7.8% on stronger average daily sales, price benefits and renewed volume growth.MSC Industrial expects Q4 average daily sales growth of 6.5-8.5% and an operating margin of 10-10.8%. MSC Industrial Direct Company, Inc. (MSM - Free Report) reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.43 for the third quarter of fiscal 2026, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.28 by 11.72%. The bottom line increased 32.4% from the year-ago quarter’s adjusted earnings of $1.08 per share.
Including one-time items, the company reported EPS of $1.44 compared with the year-ago quarter’s earnings of $1.02.
Net sales were $1.05 billion, surpassing the consensus estimate of $1.03 billion by 1.74%. Sales increased 7.8% year over year, driven by stronger average daily sales, price benefits and a return to volume growth. Average daily sales increased 7.8% year over year and came in above the company’s quarterly outlook range.
MSC Industrial’s Margins Expand Y/YThe cost of goods sold increased 7.5% year over year to $617 million. Gross profit moved up 8.2% to $430 million. The gross margin was 41.1% compared with the year-ago quarter’s 41%.
Operating expenses rose 3.6% year over year to $324 million in the fiscal third quarter. Adjusted operating income amounted to $111 million, up 27.5% from the prior-year quarter. The adjusted operating margin expanded 160 basis points to 10.6%, supported by higher sales, gross margin gains and savings from headcount actions taken over the past 12 months.
MSM’s Customer Channels Show Broad GainsCore and Other Customers grew 8% year over year, while Public Sector sales were also up 8%. National Accounts increased 7%, reflecting improvement in a channel that the company highlighted as showing notable progress.
Solutions-related sales also gained momentum. Sales to customers with an In-Plant program increased 16% and represented 21% of the total sales. Sales through vending machines rose 15% and accounted for 20% of sales, underscoring continued traction in MSC’s embedded customer solutions.
MSC Industrial’s Cash & Debt PositionMSM had cash and cash equivalents of $74 million at the end of the fiscal third quarter of 2026 compared with $56 million at the end of fiscal 2025. It generated cash flow from operating activities of $225.5 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2026 compared with $253.5 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2025.
The company’s long-term debt was $90 million at the end of the reported quarter, down from $169 million at the end of fiscal 2025.
MSM’s Outlook Signals MomentumFor the fourth quarter of fiscal 2026, MSC Industrial expects average daily year-over-year sales growth of 6.5-8.5%. The mid-point assumes July and August average daily sales improving around 8% year over year, implying volume improvement.
The company expects an adjusted operating margin of 10-10.8% in the fiscal fourth quarter.
MSC Industrial Stock’s Price PerformanceThe company’s shares have gained 43% in the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 5.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MSM’s Zacks RankMSM currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Industrial Services Stocks Awaiting ResultsW.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW - Free Report) is expected to release second-quarter 2026 results soon.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Grainger’s earnings per share is pegged at $11.16 for the second quarter, implying growth of 11.9% from the year-ago reported figure. The consensus estimate for Grainger’s total sales is pinned at $4.94 billion, indicating a year-over-year increase of 8.5%.
Hudson Technologies, Inc. (HDSN - Free Report) is anticipated to release second-quarter 2026 results soon.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Hudson’s earnings per share is pegged at 17 cents for the second quarter, implying a decline of 26% from the year-ago reported figure. The consensus estimate for Hudson Industrial’s total sales is pinned at $73.7 million, indicating a year-over-year increase of 1.1%.
SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc. (SITE - Free Report) is expected to release second-quarter 2026 results soon.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SiteOne Landscape Supply’s earnings per share is pegged at $3.39 for the fiscal second quarter. The company reported earnings of $2.86 in the year-ago quarter. The consensus estimate for SiteOne Landscape Supply’s total sales is pinned at $1.55 billion, indicating a year-over-year increase of 5.9%.
MSC Industrial (MSM - Free Report) could be a solid choice for investors given its recent upgrade to a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). This rating change essentially reflects an upward trend in earnings estimates -- one of the most powerful forces impacting stock prices.
The sole determinant of the Zacks rating is a company's changing earnings picture. The Zacks Consensus Estimate -- the consensus of EPS estimates from the sell-side analysts covering the stock -- for the current and following years is tracked by the system.
Individual investors often find it hard to make decisions based on rating upgrades by Wall Street analysts, since these are mostly driven by subjective factors that are hard to see and measure in real time. In these situations, the Zacks rating system comes in handy because of the power of a changing earnings picture in determining near-term stock price movements.
Therefore, the Zacks rating upgrade for MSC Industrial basically reflects positivity about its earnings outlook that could translate into buying pressure and an increase in its stock price.
Most Powerful Force Impacting Stock PricesThe change in a company's future earnings potential, as reflected in earnings estimate revisions, and the near-term price movement of its stock are proven to be strongly correlated. That's partly because of the influence of institutional investors that use earnings and earnings estimates for calculating the fair value of a company's shares. An increase or decrease in earnings estimates in their valuation models simply results in higher or lower fair value for a stock, and institutional investors typically buy or sell it. Their bulk investment action then leads to price movement for the stock.
For MSC Industrial, rising earnings estimates and the consequent rating upgrade fundamentally mean an improvement in the company's underlying business. And investors' appreciation of this improving business trend should push the stock higher.
Harnessing the Power of Earnings Estimate RevisionsAs empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock movements, tracking such revisions for making an investment decision could be truly rewarding. Here is where the tried-and-tested Zacks Rank stock-rating system plays an important role, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions.
The Zacks Rank stock-rating system, which uses four factors related to earnings estimates to classify stocks into five groups, ranging from Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record, with Zacks Rank #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Earnings Estimate Revisions for MSC IndustrialFor the fiscal year ending August 2026, this distributor of industrial tools and supplies is expected to earn $4.37 per share, which is unchanged compared with the year-ago reported number.
Analysts have been steadily raising their estimates for MSC Industrial. Over the past three months, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company has increased 1.1%.
Bottom LineUnlike the overly optimistic Wall Street analysts whose rating systems tend to be weighted toward favorable recommendations, the Zacks rating system maintains an equal proportion of "buy" and "sell" ratings for its entire universe of more than 4,000 stocks at any point in time. Irrespective of market conditions, only the top 5% of the Zacks-covered stocks get a "Strong Buy" rating and the next 15% get a "Buy" rating. So, the placement of a stock in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks indicates its superior earnings estimate revision feature, making it a solid candidate for producing market-beating returns in the near term.
You can learn more about the Zacks Rank here >>>
The upgrade of MSC Industrial to a Zacks Rank #2 positions it in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks in terms of estimate revisions, implying that the stock might move higher in the near term.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 2, 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.
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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.
Key Takeaways Darden is expanding digital reach while keeping value central to support guest traffic.DRI's broader brand mix reduces reliance on Olive Garden across revenue growth.Darden expects roughly 3% inflation, with pricing below inflation potentially limiting margins. Darden Restaurants (DRI - Free Report) is showing how full-service restaurant operators are adapting to a more selective consumer. Its fiscal 2026 performance benefited from same-restaurant sales gains, brand-level execution and ongoing investments in delivery and development.
The stock story is not only about growth. Darden is also managing a cost environment where pricing decisions, menu value and traffic protection remain central to the margin outlook.
Darden Shows How Value Still Wins TrafficOlive Garden remains a useful example of how value can support traffic without leaning heavily on broad discounting. The brand’s lighter portion offerings and protein-forward menu additions have expanded guest choice while preserving the affordability message that has long been part of the concept.
Management has also kept pricing below inflation to protect value perception. That approach may limit near-term margin expansion, but it supports the traffic base that full-service restaurants need when consumers are more careful with discretionary spending.
DRI Digital Efforts Broaden the Customer MixDigital convenience is becoming a more visible part of Darden’s operating story. Olive Garden’s partnership with Uber Direct continues to generate incremental orders and attract younger, higher-income customers, giving the brand another way to reach guests outside the dining room.
Yard House is also seeing encouraging early delivery results. That matters because full-service dining has historically been more dependent on in-restaurant occasions than quick-service peers, making digital access a useful way to broaden demand.
Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG - Free Report) remains an important restaurant peer for investors focused on digital ordering and consumer convenience. Restaurant Brands International Inc. (QSR - Free Report) , with brands such as Burger King, Tim Hortons, Popeyes and Firehouse Subs, gives investors another comparison point for scale and brand reach across the broader restaurant space.
Darden Uses Brand Variety to Spread RiskDarden’s portfolio is becoming less dependent on Olive Garden than it was several years ago. Olive Garden represented about 42% of fiscal 2026 sales compared with 50% in fiscal 2019, while other concepts are taking on a larger role in revenue growth.
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, Chuy’s and the fine dining brands give Darden multiple demand lanes. That variety can help spread risk when consumer behavior shifts by occasion, price point or dining format.
The company’s reporting structure also reflects this broader mix. In fiscal 2026, Olive Garden accounted for 42.3% of revenues, LongHorn Steakhouse represented 25.9%, Fine Dining contributed 10.4% and Other Business made up 21.3%.
DRI Highlights the Inflation Squeeze on MarginsCost pressure remains the clearest counterweight to Darden’s growth trends. Management expects total inflation of roughly 3% in fiscal 2027, with beef inflation the highest early in the year before moderating later.
That backdrop creates a trade-off. Darden can protect traffic by holding pricing below inflation, but doing so may keep restaurant margins from expanding as quickly as investors would prefer.
The company’s full-service model also remains tied to discretionary spending. If employment, inflation, fuel prices or consumer confidence weaken, traffic and comparable sales could face pressure even with strong brand execution.
Darden Ratings Reflect Growth Over MomentumDarden’s current stock signals fit a company with better operating trends than price momentum. The stock carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), which points to a more balanced near-term setup rather than a clear buy signal. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
The Style Scores add useful context. DRI has a VGM Score of B and a Growth Score of A, supporting the view that earnings growth and operating execution remain relative strengths.
The Value Score of C and Momentum Score of D are more cautious. For investors, that mix suggests Darden’s digital gains, menu work and portfolio diversification are promising trends, but stronger estimate support or price action may be needed before the stock becomes a more decisive market favorite.
Key Takeaways Darden grew fiscal 2026 earnings and sales, supported by same-restaurant gains and 43 net new restaurants.DRI returned about $1.4B to shareholders while funding expansion and reducing long-term debt.Darden expects about 3% inflation as pricing below inflation may limit margin expansion. Darden Restaurants (DRI - Free Report) presents a balanced investment debate after fiscal 2026 results. Earnings grew, revenues increased and the company kept returning cash to shareholders while investing in new restaurants.
The counterpoint is clear. Estimate revisions, softer momentum indicators, cost inflation and consumer spending sensitivity keep the buy case from becoming automatic.
DRI Earnings Growth Supports the Bull CaseDarden’s fiscal 2026 adjusted earnings per share rose to $10.64 from $9.55 in fiscal 2025. Fourth-quarter adjusted earnings per share increased 22.8% year over year to $3.66, giving investors a clear earnings growth base to evaluate.
Sales also moved higher. Total fiscal 2026 sales increased to $13.21 billion from $12.08 billion, supported by same-restaurant sales growth, an extra operating week and contributions from 43 net new restaurants.
The strength was not limited to one metric. Blended same-restaurant sales rose 4.5% for fiscal 2026, with Olive Garden up 4% and LongHorn Steakhouse up 7.2%. That mix gives Darden a firmer foundation than a pure cost-cutting earnings story.
Darden Valuation Looks More Reasonable NowDRI trades at 17.6X forward 12-month earnings. That sits below the Zacks sub-industry multiple of 22.83X, the sector multiple of 22.59X and the S&P 500’s 20.8X, making valuation a more constructive part of the investment case.
The multiple is close to Darden’s five-year median of 17.53X and below the five-year high of 22.86X. That does not make the stock cheap in isolation, but it suggests the valuation reset has reduced the risk of paying peak multiples for steady growth.
Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG - Free Report) remains a relevant fast-casual comparison for investors weighing restaurant growth and valuation trade-offs. Restaurant Brands International (QSR - Free Report) offers another peer reference, with a franchised restaurant model that differs from Darden’s company-owned full-service portfolio.
DRI Returns Cash While Funding ExpansionCapital allocation strengthens Darden’s investment profile. The company returned approximately $1.4 billion to shareholders in fiscal 2026 through dividends and share repurchases while continuing to fund restaurant development.
Darden also raised its quarterly dividend 8% to $1.62 per share and authorized a new $1.5 billion share repurchase program. Long-term debt declined to $1.64 billion at fiscal 2026-end from $2.13 billion at the end of fiscal 2025.
That balance matters because the company is not choosing between growth and shareholder returns. Fiscal 2027 guidance calls for 75 to 80 new restaurant openings and capital spending of approximately $875 million, keeping expansion active alongside cash returns.
Darden Has Reasons for Investor CautionThe caution case starts with revenue expectations. Fourth-quarter sales of $3.72 billion missed the consensus mark of $3.74 billion, even though sales increased 13.7% year over year.
Estimate trends are also not fully supportive. The current fiscal-year earnings estimate showed a negative 1% change over the past four weeks, which limits the case for a more aggressive near-term view.
Costs remain another issue. Management expects roughly 3% total inflation in fiscal 2027, with beef inflation highest early in the year. Darden is pricing below inflation to protect its value proposition, a strategy that can support traffic but may constrain margin expansion.
DRI Ratings Point to a Wait-and-See ViewThe bottom line is that DRI looks fundamentally steady, but not decisively attractive enough to remove the debate. Earnings growth, cash generation, restaurant expansion and a more reasonable valuation support the stock, while sales misses, estimate pressure and inflation risk keep expectations measured.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). That rank lines up with a wait-and-see stance rather than a clear buy signal, especially when near-term estimate revisions have not strengthened. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Darden has a VGM Score of B, supported by a Growth Score of A. Those scores point to favorable growth characteristics within the Zacks Style Scores framework.
The Value Score of C and Momentum Score of D keep the overall signal mixed. For investors, that combination suggests DRI has solid earnings support, but stronger estimate trends or better price momentum would make the investment case more convincing.
Key Takeaways Darden enters fiscal 2027 with broader growth beyond Olive Garden and positive same-restaurant sales.DRI plans 75-80 openings and about $875M in capital spending for units, technology and supply chain.Darden expects about 3% inflation as pricing below inflation may keep margin expansion constrained. Darden Restaurants (DRI - Free Report) enters fiscal 2027 with a balanced investment setup. The company is still benefiting from positive same-restaurant sales, steady development activity and rising contributions from brands beyond Olive Garden.
The offset is clear. Inflation, cautious consumer spending and limited international scale leave investors weighing operating execution against margin and demand risks.
Darden Brands Drive a More Balanced StoryOlive Garden remains the anchor of Darden’s business, accounting for 42.3% of fiscal 2026 revenues. That size gives the company a major traffic and earnings base in casual dining, supported by a familiar brand and broad value positioning.
The portfolio is becoming less dependent on one chain. Olive Garden represented about 50% of sales in fiscal 2019, while LongHorn Steakhouse, Fine Dining and Other Business now carry a larger share of revenues. That shift gives Darden more ways to grow earnings across different dining occasions and consumer groups.
DRI Finds Momentum in LongHorn and Olive GardenLongHorn Steakhouse is one of Darden’s clearest growth drivers. Same-restaurant sales rose 7.2% in fiscal 2026 and accelerated to 9.5% in the fourth quarter, supported by food quality, service execution and a value proposition that is not built mainly on promotions.
Olive Garden continues to support the broader story through menu innovation, affordability and guest traffic. Lighter portion offerings and protein-forward items have widened customer choice while keeping the brand focused on value, even though the newer menu created a modest check mix headwind.
Darden Pushes Digital and New Unit GrowthDigital initiatives are adding another layer to the long-term case. Olive Garden’s Uber Direct partnership is generating incremental orders and attracting younger and higher-income customers, while Yard House is seeing encouraging early delivery results.
Restaurant development remains central to growth. Darden opened 71 restaurants in fiscal 2026 and expects 75-80 openings in fiscal 2027. The company also plans about $875 million in capital spending, reflecting continued investment in new units, technology and supply-chain capabilities.
Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG - Free Report) offers investors another restaurant growth benchmark, particularly for traffic, digital access and unit development comparisons. Restaurant Brands International Inc. (QSR - Free Report) provides a different reference point, with a franchised, multi-brand model that contrasts with Darden’s company-owned restaurant base.
DRI Still Faces Margin and Demand PressureCost pressure remains the main limit on the margin story. Darden expects total inflation of about 3% in fiscal 2027, with beef inflation likely highest in the first quarter before easing later in the year.
Management’s choice to price below inflation is strategically consistent with protecting value perception and traffic. The trade-off is that margin expansion could remain constrained if commodity or labor costs stay elevated.
Demand risk also matters. Full-service restaurants depend on discretionary spending, and cautious consumer sentiment can pressure traffic if employment, fuel prices or overall confidence weaken.
Darden’s relatively small international presence is another constraint. Franchise partners are opening more restaurants outside North America, but the company still depends heavily on a mature domestic market.
Darden Signals a Mixed Stock SetupDarden’s stock setup reflects a company with good execution but not a clean all-clear signal. Same-restaurant sales growth, LongHorn’s momentum, Olive Garden’s scale and new restaurant development support the earnings growth case, while inflation and demand sensitivity keep the risk side relevant.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). That rank points to a more neutral near-term earnings-revision backdrop rather than a decisive buy signal. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Darden has a VGM Score of B, supported by a Growth Score of A, a Value Score of C and a Momentum Score of D. The Growth Score lines up with a company still expanding sales and earnings, while the Value and Momentum readings suggest less support from valuation upside or recent price trends.
For investors, that combination fits a balanced view. DRI has credible operating drivers and a diversified brand base, but cost pressures and weaker momentum keep the stock in hold territory for now.
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz reminds investors of the upcoming July 6, 2026 deadline to participate as a lead plaintiff in the securities fraud class action lawsuit filed on behalf of investors who acquired FS KKR Capital Corp. (“FS KKR Capital” or the “Company”) (NYSE: FSK) securities between May 8, 2024 and February 25, 2026, inclusive (the “Class Period”).
IF YOU ARE AN INVESTOR WHO LOST MONEY ON FS KKR CAPITAL CORP. (FSK), CLICK HERE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE SECURITIES FRAUD LAWSUIT.
What Happened?
On August 6, 2025, after the market closed, the Company reported second quarter 2025 earnings, revealing that the Company’s net asset value had declined to $21.93 per share, down $1.44, or 6.2% from the prior quarter, and the total fair value of investments fell $474 million, to $13,648 million. Moreover, the Company reported earnings (loss) per share of negative $0.75, down $1.18 or 274.4% from the prior quarter, and a total net realized and unrealized loss per share of negative $1.36, down $1.12 or 466.7% from the prior quarter. Further, investments on non-accrual status rose to 3.0% and 5.3% of the total investment portfolio at fair value and amortized cost, respectively, compared to 2.1% and 3.5% in the prior quarter.
However, the Company maintained that its “operating results and corresponding net asset value” were merely “impacted by company specific issues affecting four portfolio companies, each of which have been discussed on prior earnings calls.”
On this news, share prices fell $1.66 or 8.20% to close at $18.58 per share on August 7, 2025, on unusually heavy trading volume.
Then, on February 25, 2026, after the market closed, the Company announced fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings, revealing net asset value had continued to decline to $20.89, down $1.10 or 5% from prior quarter, and the total fair value of investments fell another $406 million, to $13,009 million. Moreover, the Company reported earnings (loss) per share of negative $0.41, down $1.17 or 153.9% from the prior quarter, and a total net realized and unrealized loss per share of negative $0.89, down $1.08 or 568.421% from the prior quarter. Further, investments on non-accrual status again rose to 3.4% and 5.5% of the total investment portfolio at fair value and amortized cost, respectively, compared to 2.9% and 5.0% in the prior quarter. The Company also “acknowledge[d] specific challenges” with additional companies and cut its dividend to $0.48 per share (previously $0.70).
In the accompanying earnings call, the Company’s Chief Investment Officer was forced to acknowledge that its “recent underperformance reflects challenges in certain legacy investments” in addition to those previously discussed. Further, challenges ran much deeper, as the Company revealed issues with the identified companies only accounted for “50% of net realized and unrealized losses.”
On this news, the Company’s stock price fell $2.03 or 15.24%, to close at $11.29 per share on February 26, 2026, on unusually heavy trading volume.
What Is The Lawsuit About?
The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (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.
If you purchased or otherwise acquired FS KKR Capital securities between May 8, 2024 and February 25, 2026, the deadline to seek appointment as the lead plaintiff in the securities fraud class action is July 6, 2026.
Contact Us To Participate or Learn More:
If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact us:
Frank R. Cruz
The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz,
2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 800,
Century City, California 90067
Email us at: [email protected]
Call us at: 310-914-5007
Visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com
Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/FRC_LAW
If you inquire by email, please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased.
To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.
, /PRNewswire/ -- National plaintiffs' law firm Berger Montague PC announces a class action lawsuit against FS KKR Capital Corp. (NYSE: FSK) ("FS KKR" or the "Company") on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired FS KKR securities during the period from May 8, 2024 through February 25, 2026 (the "Class Period").
Investor Deadline: Investors who purchased or acquired FS KKR securities during the Class Period may, no later than July 6, 2026, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class. To learn your rights, CLICK HERE.
FS KKR, headquartered in Phila., PA, is a private credit firm that makes loans to other businesses and earns revenue from interest income on debt investments, as well as other fees and dividends.
The suit alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that the Company: (1) overstated the effectiveness of its portfolio restructuring efforts for its nonaccrual companies; (2) overstated the valuation of its portfolio investments and/or the effectiveness of the Company's portfolio valuation process; and (3) overstated the durability of its quarterly distribution strategy.
If you are an FS KKR investor and would like to learn more about this action, CLICK HERE or please contact Berger Montague: Andrew Abramowitz at [email protected] or (215) 875-3015, or Caitlin Adorni at [email protected] or (267) 764-4865.
About Berger Montague
Berger Montague is one of the nation's preeminent law firms focusing on complex civil litigation, class actions, and mass torts in federal and state courts throughout the United States. With more than $2.4 billion in 2025 post-trial judgments alone, the Firm is a leader in the fields of complex litigation, antitrust, consumer protection, defective products, environmental law, employment law, securities, and whistleblower cases, among many other practice areas. For over 55 years, Berger Montague has played leading roles in precedent-setting cases and has recovered over $50 billion for its clients and the classes they have represented. Berger Montague is headquartered in Philadelphia and has offices in Chicago; Malvern, PA; Minneapolis; San Diego; San Francisco; Toronto, Canada; Washington, D.C., and Wilmington, DE.
For more information or to discuss your rights, please contact:
Andrew Abramowitz
Berger Montague
(215) 875-3015
[email protected]
Stock market volatility is heating up, as investors digest cooler-than-anticipated nonfarm payrolls for June. A total of 57,000 jobs were added, notably below expectations of 115,000 while unemployment fell to 4.2%.The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) is up triple digits as rate-hike worries ease, earlier tapping a fresh record high. The S&P 500 Index (SPX) sits flat, however, while the Nasdaq Composite Index (IXIC) pivots into the red thanks to weakness among semiconductors, memory stocks, and Tesla (TSLA). All three indexes are pacing for healthy weekly wins.
Continue reading for more on today's market, including:
Analyst: software stock still hasn't hit its top. 16 stocks ripe for a July short squeeze. Plus, Incyte options pop; two of the best and worst NYSE performers today.
Options traders are surrounding Incyte Corp (NYSE:INCY) today, continuing its recent run higher on the back of several drug approvals and a government settlement that secured funding of $246 million. INCY earlier tapped a roughly nine-year peak of $118.69 and is up 19% for 2026. So far 7,551 puts have crossed the tape, 80 times the average intraday rate. Most popular are the September 100 and 110 puts, where opening activity is present.
Healthcare giant Tenet Healthcare Corp (NYSE:THC) is near the top of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), last seen up 7.2% at $205, after Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated its "overweight" rating and $245 price target, citing undervaluation. Today's surge has the shares breaking above the $200 level, its year-to-date breakeven mark, and the 120-day moving average.
Fabrinet (NYSE:FN) is pacing the bottom of the NYSE, last seen down 6.8% at $510.02, extending its pullback from its mid-May highs. FN has struggled amid AI data center profit taking, with the tech pullback pressuring the shares back to levels not seen since early April. FN remains 12% higher for 2026.
Whether it's through stocks, bonds, ETFs, or other types of securities, all investors love seeing their portfolios score big returns. But when you're an income investor, your primary focus is generating consistent cash flow from each of your liquid investments.
While cash flow can come from bond interest or interest from other types of investments, income investors hone in on dividends. A dividend is that coveted distribution of a company's earnings paid out to shareholders, and investors often view it by its dividend yield, a metric that measures the dividend as a percent of the current stock price. Many academic studies show that dividends make up large portions of long-term returns, and in many cases, dividend contributions surpass one-third of total returns.
Based in Redwood City, Equinix (EQIX - Free Report) is in the Finance sector, and so far this year, shares have seen a price change of 32.3%. Currently paying a dividend of $5.16 per share, the company has a dividend yield of 2.04%. In comparison, the REIT and Equity Trust - Retail industry's yield is 3.74%, while the S&P 500's yield is 1.4%.
Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $20.64 is up 10% from last year. Over the last 5 years, Equinix has increased its dividend 5 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 13.62%. Looking ahead, future dividend growth will be dependent on earnings growth and payout ratio, which is the proportion of a company's annual earnings per share that it pays out as a dividend. Equinix's current payout ratio is 52%, meaning it paid out 52% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.
EQIX is expecting earnings to expand this fiscal year as well. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $42.93 per share, representing a year-over-year earnings growth rate of 12.00%.
Investors like dividends for many reasons; they greatly improve stock investing profits, decrease overall portfolio risk, and carry tax advantages, among others. It's important to keep in mind that not all companies provide a quarterly payout.
High-growth firms or tech start-ups, for example, rarely provide their shareholders a dividend, while larger, more established companies that have more secure profits are often seen as the best dividend options. During periods of rising interest rates, income investors must be mindful that high-yielding stocks tend to struggle. That said, they can take comfort from the fact that EQIX is not only an attractive dividend play, but is also a compelling investment opportunity with a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).
Have you been searching for a stock that might be well-positioned to maintain its earnings-beat streak in its upcoming report? It is worth considering Trane Technologies (TT - Free Report) , which belongs to the Zacks Technology Services industry.
This manufacturer has seen a nice streak of beating earnings estimates, especially when looking at the previous two reports. The average surprise for the last two quarters was 2.69%.
For the last reported quarter, Trane Technologies came out with earnings of $2.63 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.53 per share, representing a surprise of 3.95%. For the previous quarter, the company was expected to post earnings of $2.82 per share and it actually produced earnings of $2.86 per share, delivering a surprise of 1.42%.
Price and EPS Surprise
With this earnings history in mind, recent estimates have been moving higher for Trane Technologies. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the company is positive, which is a great sign of an earnings beat, especially when you combine this metric with its nice Zacks Rank.
Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Trane Technologies currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.60%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner.
Investors should note, however, that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss, but a negative value does reduce the predictive power of this metric.
Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, but that may not be the sole basis for their stocks moving higher. On the other hand, some stocks may hold their ground even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.
Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Key HighlightsCaliberCos Advances Digital Real Estate Investment PlatformChainlink Technology Enables Regulatory Compliance FrameworkMarket Responds Positively to CaliberCos Blockchain IntegrationGet 3 Free Stock Ebooks CWD shares jumped 83% following CaliberCos’ blockchain tokenization announcement.
The company revealed plans to tokenize real estate investment funds using advanced technology.
Chainlink’s infrastructure will enable regulatory compliance for tokenized offerings.
The initiative aims to enhance accessibility in private real estate markets through blockchain.
Investors responded enthusiastically to Caliber’s integration of blockchain into its operations.
Shares of CaliberCos Inc. (CWD) rocketed 83.47% to reach $1.1850 following the company’s disclosure of an advanced real estate tokenization initiative. The stock experienced significant early trading activity before settling around $1.18, retaining the majority of its intraday gains. This dramatic price movement came after Caliber revealed its intention to leverage Chainlink’s technology infrastructure for creating compliant digital real estate investment vehicles.
CaliberCos Inc., CWD
CaliberCos Advances Digital Real Estate Investment Platform Caliber announced its upcoming phase will concentrate on integrating tokenization technology directly into its real estate investment operations. As a manager of alternative property assets, the firm intends to transform how private fund ownership functions. The initiative seeks to enhance financing mechanisms, administrative processes, market accessibility, and transparency through distributed ledger technology.
According to the company, modern tokenization challenges extend well beyond simply generating digital securities. Critical hurdles include regulatory adherence, distribution networks, investor qualification procedures, advisor integration systems, and meeting stringent market regulations. Consequently, Caliber intends to seamlessly integrate its tokenized offerings with established wealth management infrastructure and fund administration workflows.
This approach represents a fundamental transition from merely holding digital assets to actively deploying them operationally. While Caliber currently maintains holdings of LINK, the native token of Chainlink’s ecosystem, the company now seeks to implement Chainlink-powered solutions to facilitate real estate fund tokenization within its operational framework.
Chainlink Technology Enables Regulatory Compliance Framework Caliber intends to deploy Chainlink’s Automated Compliance Engine to facilitate regulated operations for its tokenized investment products. This integrated system creates connections between identity verification providers, digital wallets, risk management platforms, issuers, and distribution networks. Consequently, it enables streamlined investor verification processes, automated compliance enforcement, comprehensive audit documentation, and digital distribution capabilities.
Regulatory compliance represents a significant obstacle for tokenizing private investment funds. Fund managers must authenticate qualified participants, track all activities, and preserve detailed documentation. Chainlink’s technological framework addresses these requirements through automated, reusable compliance mechanisms.
According to Caliber, the emphasis remains squarely on genuine investment vehicles and established fund architectures. The organization expects tokenization to deliver more transparent valuations, broader market access, and streamlined administrative operations. Additionally, the system should facilitate custody solutions, enhanced reporting capabilities, liquidity mechanisms, and compliant asset transfers.
Market Responds Positively to CaliberCos Blockchain Integration CWD experienced substantial gains as investors recognized Caliber’s integration of blockchain technology into its fundamental real estate operations. Rather than pursuing tokenization as an isolated technology experiment, the company plans comprehensive implementation across carefully selected private property investments.
Caliber indicated its implementation strategy will commence with properties ideally suited for tokenization. One notable example includes the company’s investment in a major indoor Pickleball and Padel complex in the United States. According to Caliber, such ventures could demonstrate tangible investor advantages through enhanced ownership structures and superior administrative capabilities.
Regarding public market positioning, Caliber presents CWD as a real estate asset management company leveraging blockchain infrastructure for operational advantages. The firm’s LINK holdings provide supplementary exposure to the Chainlink ecosystem. However, Caliber emphasized that blockchain adoption does not eliminate fundamental investment risks, though it may enhance operational efficiency for fund management.
Oliver Dale
Editor-in-Chief of Blockonomi and founder of Kooc Media, A UK-Based Online Media Company. Believer in Open-Source Software, Blockchain Technology & a Free and Fair Internet for all. His writing has been quoted by Nasdaq, Dow Jones, Investopedia, The New Yorker, Forbes, Techcrunch & More. Contact [email protected]
Chainlink attracted renewed whale interest after four large wallets accumulated 512,595 LINK worth approximately $3.78 million within four days.
The largest wallet acquired 120,675 LINK, while the remaining addresses accumulated 251,735 LINK, 113,068 LINK, and 27,116 LINK, respectively.
This buying activity emerged while Chainlink [LINK] traded near the lower end of its broader range, suggesting that large holders viewed current prices as attractive accumulation levels.
However, price had not immediately reflected that confidence before the recent breakout.
Even so, the steady purchases reduced concerns about large-scale distribution and instead reinforced the view that large investors had positioned themselves ahead of a potential trend reversal.
Long traders continue backing the recovery Binance’s top traders maintained a strong bullish bias despite the recent correction.
Long accounts represented 70.39% of positions, while short accounts accounted for 29.61%, producing a Long/Short Ratio of 2.38.
Those figures showed that experienced market participants continued favoring higher prices even before LINK completed its technical breakout.
However, leveraged positioning alone never guarantees sustained gains because sentiment could change quickly around major resistance levels.
Despite that, the persistent dominance of long accounts aligned with the whale accumulation narrative.
If buying pressure continued increasing, leveraged bulls would likely remain in control as the market attempted to extend the breakout.
Source: CoinGlass Whale-sized orders overshadow retail participation Spot market activity revealed a clear difference between institutional and retail behavior.
The Spot Average Order Size indicator identified Big Whale Orders, confirming that larger transactions dominated recent exchange activity.
Meanwhile, the Spot Retail Activity Through Trading Frequency Surge indicator remained Neutral, showing that smaller investors had not aggressively returned to the market.
This combination suggests that recent buying activity mainly originated from larger participants rather than speculative retail demand.
However, broader retail participation often strengthened sustained rallies after institutional accumulation emerged.
Until that shift occurs, LINK’s recovery would likely continue depending on whale demand to maintain upward pressure.
Source: CryptoQuant LINK escapes its downtrend as bulls eye $8.30 LINK confirmed a breakout above its multi-week descending channel after closing above the upper trendline and trading around $7.47.
The move marked the first decisive break from the structure that had guided lower highs since early May, indicating that bearish control had weakened.
The token also reclaimed the $7.18 support, which now serves as the first level that buyers need to defend if the breakout is to remain valid.
Meanwhile, the RSI climbed to 41.79 from deeply oversold levels, showing that buying strength improved without entering overbought territory, leaving room for further upside.
If LINK holds above the broken trendline, buyers could drive the token toward the $8.30 resistance, with $9.50 emerging as the next major upside target after a successful breakout above that level.
However, if price falls back below the channel and loses $7.18, the breakout would likely prove false and expose LINK to another decline toward the recent lows.
Source: TradingView Final Summary Whale accumulation and large spot orders have continued supporting LINK’s improving market structure. LINK has broken above its descending channel, while $8.30 remains the next major resistance.
Not financial or tax advice. PANews content is strictly educational and informational and is not investment advice, financial advice, tax advice, legal advice, or a solicitation to buy or sell any digital asset, security, or financial product. Do your own research and consult qualified advisers.
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Standard Chartered has launched a new service that gives eligible institutional clients access to USDC minting and redemption through its own banking platform.
Summary
Standard Chartered now lets eligible institutions access USDC minting and redemption without direct Circle accounts globally. The service starts through DIFC operations and may expand to more markets after approvals. Circle said the partnership supports institutional use cases across settlement, treasury, liquidity management, and payments. The product was developed with Circle, the issuer of USDC. Meanwhile, the bank said the setup lets clients use one onboarding and service experience instead of opening direct accounts with Circle. It connects fiat banking, custody, digital asset infrastructure, and public blockchain networks inside one bank-led offering.
The service starts through Standard Chartered’s DIFC operations in Dubai. The bank plans to expand it into other markets, subject to local approvals and market readiness.
Standard Chartered offers USDC access through one bank platform The Standard Chartered and Circle launch makes the bank the first Global Systemically Important Bank licensed to offer institutional clients integrated USDC minting and redemption access. Circle said clients can use the service without holding direct Circle accounts.
The product targets use cases such as onchain settlement, treasury operations, and liquidity management. It also gives Standard Chartered a path to support payment-related use cases in the future as stablecoin infrastructure becomes part of institutional workflows.
Roberto Hoornweg, Chief Executive Officer for Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Chartered, said, “Digital assets are becoming an increasingly important component of global financial infrastructure.” He added that clients want the same trust and governance standards that support traditional markets.
Circle links USDC to regulated banking channels Circle Chief Commercial Officer Kash Razzaghi said financial institutions want trusted access to stablecoins and blockchain-based markets. He said integrating Circle’s infrastructure into Standard Chartered’s platform can help institutions use USDC across payments, settlement, and treasury operations.
The launch follows other bank-linked USDC moves. As previously reported, BNY unlocked USDC minting and redemption for clients, allowing them to convert U.S. dollars into USDC and redeem the stablecoin back into dollars from within its platform.
Circle has also been widening its institutional payment network. Crypto.news reported that Circle Payments Network launched for banks, giving banks and fintechs a managed USDC settlement option without requiring them to manage custody systems or blockchain operations directly.
UAE role grows in stablecoin infrastructure Standard Chartered said the launch reinforces the UAE’s role as a hub for regulated digital asset activity. The service begins in DIFC, where many global banks and digital asset firms already serve institutional clients across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
The UAE has also moved to build local stablecoin rules and products. Moreover, the UAE unveiled its first central bank-approved stablecoin, creating a locally regulated dollar-backed token that competes with USDC in certain institutional use cases.
Standard Chartered has also expanded digital asset payment rails in the region. Previously, Singapore Gulf Bank tapped Standard Chartered to improve cross-border settlement and multi-currency payment services across Middle East and Asia corridors.
Stablecoin competition keeps rising The bank-led USDC service comes as competition around stablecoin access grows. As crypto.news reported, Circle shares fell 17.5% after Russell Growth removals and the launch of Open USD, a rival stablecoin backed by a large group of partners.
Banks and fintechs are also building more stablecoin infrastructure directly. Checker raised $8 million to help banks and fintechs launch stablecoin products through a single API.
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TL;DR Standard Chartered has become the first G-SIB to offer institutional clients direct USDC minting and redemption services. The new solution allows eligible clients to access USDC without opening a separate account with Circle. Initially launching through the bank’s DIFC operations, the service supports settlement, treasury, and liquidity management. The partnership underscores growing institutional demand for regulated stablecoin infrastructure despite rising competition in the sector. Standard Chartered, currently at the fore front of the stablecoin adoption campaign, has introduced a new service that enables institutional clients to mint and redeem USDC directly through the bank, marking a significant step in the integration of traditional banking with digital assets.
Developed in partnership with Circle Internet Group, the issuer of USDC, the offering makes Standard Chartered the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) to provide institutional access to USDC minting and redemption through a single banking relationship.
Unlike existing arrangements, eligible clients will not need to open separate accounts with Circle. Instead, they can access USDC minting and redemption through Standard Chartered’s institutional platform, allowing them to move between fiat currencies and blockchain-based assets within a unified banking environment.
Circle 🤝 Standard Chartered@StanChart has launched institutional USDC minting and redemption through DIFC, becoming the first G-SIB to offer institutional access to USDC through a regulated banking channel.
A major milestone for institutional stablecoin adoption.… pic.twitter.com/SufjFOqjyk
— Circle (@circle) July 2, 2026
The service will initially be available through the bank’s Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) operations, with plans to expand into additional markets as regulatory approvals are secured.
New Service Aims to Bridge Traditional Banking and Digital Assets Standard Chartered said the new capability is designed to simplify how institutions interact with regulated stablecoins by combining banking services, custody, and digital asset infrastructure into a single offering.
The bank expects the solution to support a wide range of institutional activities, including on-chain settlement, treasury operations, and liquidity management, while also laying the foundation for future payment-related use cases. By embedding USDC access into its existing institutional banking platform, Standard Chartered aims to provide clients with the governance, compliance, and risk management standards associated with a global financial institution.
The launch also reflects growing demand among corporations and financial institutions for regulated stablecoin infrastructure capable of supporting cross-border transactions and digital asset operations. Starting in the UAE further reinforces the country’s position as an emerging hub for regulated blockchain and digital asset innovation.
Partnership Highlights Stablecoin Adoption Despite Growing Competition The partnership, just barely a month after another one with CoinMENA, represents another milestone for Circle as it continues expanding the reach of USDC through established financial institutions. Bringing a global systemically important bank into its ecosystem could strengthen USDC’s position among institutional users seeking regulated access to stablecoins.
The announcement also comes just hours after renewed attention on Circle’s competitive position in the stablecoin market. As earlier reported, Circle’s shares recovered modestly after a sharp selloff triggered by the launch of the OpenUSD consortium, an initiative backed by more than 140 organizations, including major financial and technology companies such as Stripe, Coinbase, Visa, Mastercard, and BlackRock.
While some analysts have warned that increasing competition could pressure USDC’s market position over time, Standard Chartered’s decision to integrate USDC into its institutional banking services signals that demand for regulated stablecoin infrastructure continues to grow.
Key HighlightsPre-Market Rally Follows USDC Service AnnouncementMajor Bank Pioneers Institutional Stablecoin InfrastructureInstitutional Appetite Drives CRCL MomentumGet 3 Free Stock Ebooks CRCL shares advance following Standard Chartered’s institutional USDC launch.
Global bank introduces direct USDC creation and redemption services.
Development reinforces Circle’s position in regulated digital currency markets.
Initial deployment begins in DIFC with expansion plans underway.
Partnership expands Circle’s footprint among institutional investors.
Shares of Circle Internet Group (CRCL) climbed 3.81% to reach $64.38 during pre-market hours following Standard Chartered’s introduction of institutional-grade USDC services. This advance came after CRCL closed the prior session at $61.95, representing a 1.09% decline. The development establishes a connection between a leading international financial institution and Circle’s regulated digital dollar platform.
Circle Internet Group, CRCL
Pre-Market Rally Follows USDC Service Announcement Circle Internet Group equity experienced upward momentum ahead of market open after Standard Chartered unveiled its USDC creation and redemption platform. This offering leverages Circle’s existing framework while focusing on corporate and institutional participants. The partnership enhances Circle’s standing within the regulated digital currency ecosystem.
Circle 🤝 Standard Chartered@StanChart has launched institutional USDC minting and redemption through DIFC, becoming the first G-SIB to offer institutional access to USDC through a regulated banking channel.
A major milestone for institutional stablecoin adoption.… pic.twitter.com/SufjFOqjyk
— Circle (@circle) July 2, 2026
This new functionality enables organizations to obtain USDC via Standard Chartered’s established client onboarding and servicing infrastructure. Consequently, institutional participants can bypass the need for direct Circle relationships. This arrangement introduces a banking intermediary between traditional currency systems and distributed ledger settlement mechanisms.
Circle produces USDC through licensed operating entities, maintaining its status as a leading dollar-backed digital currency. Applications include cross-border transactions, financial settlement, corporate treasury operations, and capital management. Banking collaborations of this nature can accelerate mainstream institutional adoption.
Major Bank Pioneers Institutional Stablecoin Infrastructure Standard Chartered achieved a milestone as the inaugural licensed Global Systemically Important Bank offering this type of USDC service architecture. Operations will commence through the bank’s Dubai International Financial Centre presence. This deployment reinforces the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to regulated cryptocurrency infrastructure.
The platform integrates traditional banking capabilities with custody solutions, digital asset technology, and public blockchain networks. Organizations gain unified access for moving between fiat currency and stablecoins. This arrangement enables businesses to coordinate blockchain-based settlement and treasury functions with enhanced oversight.
Standard Chartered intends to broaden this service across additional jurisdictions following regulatory clearance and operational preparation. Bank executives positioned this deployment as an initial step within a comprehensive stablecoin strategy. Such moves reflect increasing appetite for compliant digital asset infrastructure.
Institutional Appetite Drives CRCL Momentum Circle stands to gain from growing corporate and institutional interest in stablecoins and blockchain settlement systems. USDC availability through an established international bank may unlock additional enterprise applications. This integration embeds Circle more firmly within conventional financial architecture.
The announcement arrives as financial institutions and corporations evaluate stablecoins for payment processing and treasury optimization. Organizations seek operational efficiency and transaction transparency while maintaining regulatory compliance and risk management protocols. Standard Chartered’s approach satisfies these requirements through its supervised banking structure.
CRCL’s pre-market appreciation underscored this enhanced institutional positioning. Shares recovered from the previous session’s weakness and early trading pressure. Nevertheless, the fundamental narrative centers on Circle’s deepening integration with regulated banking infrastructure.
Oliver Dale
Editor-in-Chief of Blockonomi and founder of Kooc Media, A UK-Based Online Media Company. Believer in Open-Source Software, Blockchain Technology & a Free and Fair Internet for all. His writing has been quoted by Nasdaq, Dow Jones, Investopedia, The New Yorker, Forbes, Techcrunch & More. Contact [email protected]
Circle’s USDC is well on its way to a massive growth in institutional usage following the launch of a new offering by Standard Chartered.
In a major partnership update, the bank revealed that it will now allow eligible institutional clients to directly mint and redeem the USDC stablecoin.
Standard Chartered Backs USDC For Institutional Clients It marks the first time that a Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) is offering the institutional minting and redemption of USDC under a single onboarding process. Under the Circle-Standard Chartered partnership, clients aren’t required to hold direct accounts with Circle for USDC minting and redemption.
Standard Chartered will initially roll out the USDC offering in its Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Interestingly, this move aims to integrate traditional banking, digital asset infrastructure, and blockchain connectivity on a single platform.
Moreover, Standard Chartered also plans to expand the product into other markets as it gets regulatory approvals.
Circle 🤝 Standard Chartered@StanChart has launched institutional USDC minting and redemption through DIFC, becoming the first G-SIB to offer institutional access to USDC through a regulated banking channel.
A major milestone for institutional stablecoin adoption.… pic.twitter.com/SufjFOqjyk
— Circle (@circle) July 2, 2026
The infrastructure is intended for institutional applications such as on-chain settlement, treasury management and liquidity operations. Further, in later stages, it eyes adding payment applications for Circle’s USDC. After this announcement, the CRCL stock price gained 4.25% to $64.58 in pre-market trading on Thursday.
Institutional investors are seeking trusted digital asset infrastructure, said Roberto Hoornweg, the Chief Executive Officer of Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Chartered. In the official release, he said, “Digital assets are becoming an increasingly important component of global financial infrastructure, and institutional clients are seeking the same levels of trust and governance that underpin traditional markets.”
The collaboration follows Standard Chartered bagging its MiCA license via its Luxembourg branch just days before the EU transition deadline in July.
Boost For USDC In Dubai Region Meanwhile, as Standard Chartered continues to roll out access to the USDC, Circle is also making moves to counter competition from Open USD (OUSD). For context, the rival stablecoin OUSD was introduced by the Open Standard consortium on June 30.
OUSD’s consortium consists of over 140 companies. These include Visa, Mastercard, BlackRock, BNY, Standard Chartered, Google, Shopify, Coinbase, Ripple, and Solana.
However, Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire dismissed concerns related to OUSD. On Wednesday, July 1, he stated that the market share of USDC is based on years of ecosystem building. On X, he wrote, “Stablecoin networks are platform and network effect businesses that are established over a long period of time.”
USDC’s developer ecosystem, its liquidity and regulatory quality in the European Union and Japan were among its competitive advantages, he added.
Other Articles... Meanwhile, the Standard Chartered partnership can boost in the Dubai region. The launch is expected to strengthen USDC’s institutional presence in Dubai. It eyes giving eligible clients in the DIFC direct access to minting and redemption through a global bank.
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It also reinforces Dubai’s position as a leading hub for regulated digital asset activity. Recently, VARA made a milestone by issuing 50th license, hence, continuing to seal Dubai’s status as a global crypto hub.
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Standard Chartered and USDC issuer Circle have developed a system that lets institutional clients mint and redeem the USDC stablecoin through a bank-led onboarding process.
Standard Chartered said Thursday it is the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) to offer such services for USDC, bringing stablecoin access into the same risk, compliance and governance frameworks used in traditional banking. Clients will be able to mint and redeem the US dollar-backed stablecoin directly through StanChart's platform instead of opening separate accounts with Circle.
“By embedding USDC access directly within Standard Chartered’s institutional offering, Standard Chartered will bring together banking, custody, and digital asset services within one integrated offering,” the announcement said. The initial rollout will be through the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
The collaboration comes as stablecoin infrastructure is increasingly integrated into traditional banking systems, as issuers and financial institutions compete to control how digital assets such as USDC are distributed and accessed.
Source: Circle on X.com
The capability supports institutional use cases such as onchain settlement, treasury, and liquidity management, while also providing the infrastructure to support payment-related use cases in the future.
Initial rollout via Dubai International Financial CentreWhile the service is initially rolling out through Standard Chartered’s operations in the DIFC, the bank said it intends to expand the capability to other markets, depending on regulatory approval and demand from clients.
Source: Standard Chartered
Roberto Hoornweg, CEO of corporate and investment banking at StanChart, said the goal is to bring traditional banking standards into crypto markets as demand for regulated infrastructure increases.
“Ultimately, this is about enabling broader institutional participation in digital asset markets through the frameworks, controls and regulatory oversight that have long supported confidence in global financial markets,” he said.
The news came in the wake of Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire's statement defending USDC’s network effects against new stablecoin entrants like Open USD (OUSD), pointing to growing competition over distribution, liquidity and revenue models in the stablecoin market.
“With OUSD, we work closely with many of the founding members, and we expect that those same members will remain large USDC partners and customers,” he said on Wednesday.
Magazine: Crypto wanted to overthrow banks, now it’s becoming them in stablecoin fight
Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.
Standard Chartered and USDC issuer Circle have developed a system that lets institutional clients mint and redeem the USDC stablecoin through a bank-led onboarding process.
Standard Chartered said Thursday it is the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) to offer such services for USDC, bringing stablecoin access into the same risk, compliance and governance frameworks used in traditional banking. Clients will be able to mint and redeem the US dollar-backed stablecoin directly through StanChart's platform instead of opening separate accounts with Circle.
“By embedding USDC access directly within Standard Chartered’s institutional offering, Standard Chartered will bring together banking, custody, and digital asset services within one integrated offering,” the announcement said. The initial rollout will be through the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
The collaboration comes as stablecoin infrastructure is increasingly integrated into traditional banking systems, as issuers and financial institutions compete to control how digital assets such as USDC are distributed and accessed.
Source: Circle on X.com
The capability supports institutional use cases such as onchain settlement, treasury, and liquidity management, while also providing the infrastructure to support payment-related use cases in the future.
Initial rollout via Dubai International Financial CentreWhile the service is initially rolling out through Standard Chartered’s operations in the DIFC, the bank said it intends to expand the capability to other markets, depending on regulatory approval and demand from clients.
Source: Standard Chartered
Roberto Hoornweg, CEO of corporate and investment banking at StanChart, said the goal is to bring traditional banking standards into crypto markets as demand for regulated infrastructure increases.
“Ultimately, this is about enabling broader institutional participation in digital asset markets through the frameworks, controls and regulatory oversight that have long supported confidence in global financial markets,” he said.
The news came in the wake of Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire's statement defending USDC’s network effects against new stablecoin entrants like Open USD (OUSD), pointing to growing competition over distribution, liquidity and revenue models in the stablecoin market.
“With OUSD, we work closely with many of the founding members, and we expect that those same members will remain large USDC partners and customers,” he said on Wednesday.
Magazine: Crypto wanted to overthrow banks, now it’s becoming them in stablecoin fight
Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.
2 July 2026 | 15:20 Standard Chartered has integrated stablecoin access directly into its banking infrastructure through a partnership with Circle, announced on July 2, 2026.
Key Takeaways Standard Chartered launched institutional USDC minting and redemption with Circle. Clients access USDC through the bank, without holding direct Circle accounts. It combines fiat banking, custody, and blockchain settlement in one regulated flow. The rollout starts in the UAE through Standard Chartered’s DIFC operations. What Was Launched The core of the announcement is access. Eligible institutional clients can now mint and redeem USDC through a single onboarding and service experience within Standard Chartered’s existing institutional banking setup. According to Circle, this makes Standard Chartered the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) licensed to offer institutional clients access to USDC minting and redemption through a single onboarding and service experience, without requiring clients to hold direct accounts with Circle.
That qualifier matters, other large banks have been moving into USDC custody and settlement, so the distinction here is the specific licensed, bank-led minting-and-redemption model delivered without a direct Circle relationship, not simply “a bank touching USDC first.”
How It Works The capability connects three layers that usually sit apart: fiat banking, digital asset infrastructure and public blockchain networks within a single, bank-led solution. In practice, that lets institutions convert dollars to USDC and back, and use the stablecoin for on-chain work, inside one regulated environment with the bank’s compliance and custody wrapped around it.
The stated use cases are institutional plumbing rather than trading: on-chain settlement, treasury, and liquidity management, while providing the infrastructure to support payment-related use cases in the future. The pitch is that institutions get USDC access delivered through the risk, compliance, and governance standards they already expect from a major international bank.
Circle 🤝 Standard Chartered@StanChart has launched institutional USDC minting and redemption through DIFC, becoming the first G-SIB to offer institutional access to USDC through a regulated banking channel.
A major milestone for institutional stablecoin adoption.… pic.twitter.com/SufjFOqjyk
— Circle (@circle) July 2, 2026
Where It Starts The rollout is geographically staged. It’s initially available to eligible clients through Standard Chartered’s DIFC operations, based in the UAE, which the bank frames as the first phase of a broader global stablecoin proposition. Standard Chartered says it intends to expand the capability into additional markets, subject to regulatory approvals and market readiness. The UAE launch also reinforces the country’s positioning as a hub for regulated digital-asset activity.
Roberto Hoornweg, CEO of Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Chartered, framed it as extending traditional standards into a new segment:
Digital assets are becoming an increasingly important component of global financial infrastructure, and institutional clients are seeking the same levels of trust and governance that underpin traditional markets.
Kash Razzaghi, Chief Commercial Officer at Circle, tied it to institutional demand:
Financial institutions are increasingly looking for trusted ways to access stablecoins and participate in blockchain-enabled financial markets.
The significance is structural, not speculative. USDC is fully backed 1:1 by cash and short-term US Treasuries, minted when fiat is deposited and burned on redemption, so it behaves as a demand-driven digital dollar, not an inflationary asset. What changes here is who controls the on-ramp: a G-SIB is now a direct gateway to minting and redeeming those digital dollars.
That pushes stablecoins further from being trading instruments toward being settlement infrastructure. It deepens USDC’s positioning as regulated, bank-integrated digital cash, applies competitive pressure to other stablecoins, and lays groundwork for tokenized treasury, payment, and liquidity systems running on-chain. It also fits a clear 2026 pattern: major banks, from custody players to G-SIBs, racing to build regulated USDC infrastructure as institutional demand for on-chain dollars grows. This is one of the more concrete steps in stablecoins becoming, in effect, regulated financial plumbing.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Consult a professional before making investment decisions.
Author
Alexander Zdravkov is a market analyst and crypto journalist with interests in economics, broader financial markets and digital assets. His journey into crypto began more than four years ago, driven by a fascination with the rapid evolution of blockchain technology and the transformative potential of decentralized finance. He began analyzing market cycles and identifying emerging trends before they reach the mainstream. He holds a degree in International Relations - a background that helped shape his broader perspective on global economics, geopolitics, and the interconnected nature of modern financial markets. Whether covering the latest developments in the crypto sector or exploring broader macroeconomic themes, Alexander focuses on giving readers context rather than simply repeating headlines. During his career, he has authored more than 5,000 articles covering cryptocurrencies, traditional finance, and global market developments. His work spans everything from Bitcoin and altcoins to macroeconomic trends influencing risk assets worldwide.
The custody and settlement plumbing of institutional crypto just got a meaningful upgrade. Standard Chartered has partnered with Circle to let its institutional clients mint and redeem USDC directly through the bank’s existing channels—without the friction of opening and maintaining separate accounts with the stablecoin issuer. The arrangement, detailed in the original report, makes Standard Chartered the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) to offer this capability under a single onboarding experience.
The service launches via Standard Chartered’s operations in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a jurisdiction that has been building crypto-specific regulatory clarity under the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). The bank intends to bridge fiat banking, digital asset infrastructure, and public blockchains—specifically targeting treasury, on-chain settlement, and liquidity management. In practical terms, a corporate client can now convert fiat into USDC and back through its relationship with Standard Chartered, with the bank handling the issuance and redemption processes behind the scenes.
A Banking Gateway to USDC Liquidity Until now, institutional access to dollar-backed stablecoins typically required a direct relationship with the issuer or a third-party crypto exchange that supported mint and burn flows. For many large financial firms, that setup introduced counterparty concentration risk and operational complexity. By absorbing those functions, Standard Chartered positions itself as a regulated conduit between traditional fiat rails and on-chain capital. The move parallels how prime brokerages aggregate market access for hedge funds, but here the product is a stablecoin rather than a security.
Standard Chartered isn’t just adding a menu item. The bank has been quietly building a digital asset custody and tokenization stack, including through its Zodia Custody venture and partnerships with enterprise blockchain networks. Adding USDC mint/redemption turns its DIFC hub into a multi-rail settlement node, something that could appeal to trade finance desks and cross-border payment operations. The timing also coincides with a broader reassessment of corporate treasury strategies, where stablecoins are increasingly used to net intraday settlement risk across time zones. This appetite has been visible in surging institutional staking demand and funding flows into on-chain yield vehicles.
Implications for Stablecoin Market Structure The partnership subtly shifts the stablecoin power dynamic. Circle’s USDC has long sought to differentiate itself from USDT through regulatory compliance and transparent reserves. By embedding USDC mint/redemption inside a G-SIB, Circle moves the stablecoin closer to mainstream banking infrastructure—potentially eroding the network-effect advantage that Tether enjoys among offshore market makers. Institutions that once hesitated to touch any stablecoin due to perceived regulatory risk may now see a bank-wrapped path.
That said, the arrangement is limited to eligible clients and currently runs through one financial free zone. It is not a universal banking license to issue stablecoins across all markets. Yet the signal is loud: a systemically important bank is comfortable enough with the liability structure and compliance framework to act as a direct on/off-ramp. This comes against the backdrop of a fractious regulatory environment in the U.S., where some major lenders have actively pushed back on crypto legislation even while others explore stablecoin products under clearer foreign frameworks. The DIFC route allows Standard Chartered to test the model with a pragmatic regulator, providing a template other G-SIBs may watch closely.
The stablecoin integration also feeds into the larger real-world asset (RWA) tokenization narrative. When a bank can convert fiat into a regulated stablecoin and then move that token to a settlement blockchain, it effectively creates a high-speed bridge to on-chain treasury instruments and tokenized obligations. With on-chain RWA value crossing $20 billion, the missing piece for many institutional participants has been a seamless fiat-to-stablecoin leg. Standard Chartered is now offering exactly that.
What Remains Uncertain A few unknowns will define how significant this launch becomes. First, the scope of eligible clients has not been disclosed. If it is limited to a small set of DIFC-domiciled corporates, the immediate volume may not move markets. If the bank plans a phased rollout to larger institutional clients across its Asian, African, and Middle Eastern corridors, the flow-through to USDC market capitalization could be material over time.
Second, Standard Chartered’s own risk appetite will be tested. Acting as a mint/redemption gateway means the bank must manage intraday liquidity across fiat and digital rails, handle blockchain transaction monitoring, and maintain reserves that satisfy Circle’s attestation requirements. Any operational misstep could damage confidence in the model. Third, competitors are unlikely to stand still. Other custody banks and payment processors already run stablecoin access programs, though none have the G-SIB label. A rapid response from a European or Asian peer would validate the category—or turn it into a niche experiment confined to a single institution.
For now, the practical outcome is tangible: a regulated, systemically important bank has turned stablecoin access into a relationship product. That is a structural evolution, not just a headline partnership.
AUTHOR
Max delves deep into the cryptocurrency realm, with a passion for altcoins and NFTs. Convinced of crypto's transformative potential, he envisions a decentralized financial future. Max's background in the financial sector grants him unique insights into global monetary systems. In his leisure, Max embraces the thrill of adventures and is an avid sports enthusiast, finding balance and rejuvenation away from work.
In brief Standard Chartered has become the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) to offer institutional clients direct access to mint and redeem USDC. The service, launching first through the bank's Dubai (DIFC) operations, targets uses like on-chain settlement, treasury, and liquidity management, with payment features planned later. The launch is the first phase of a broader global stablecoin strategy, with Standard Chartered planning to expand to other markets pending regulatory approval. Standard Chartered announced Wednesday that it has launched a service allowing institutional clients to mint and redeem USDC, the stablecoin issued by Circle Internet Group, directly through the bank rather than opening separate accounts with the crypto firm.
The bank said the launch makes it the first Global Systemically Important Bank licensed to offer institutional clients integrated access to USDC minting and redemption through a single onboarding and service experience, without requiring clients to hold direct accounts with Circle.
The designation places Standard Chartered, one of roughly 30 banks worldwide deemed critical enough to the global financial system to face heightened regulatory scrutiny, at the forefront of banks moving to fold stablecoins into mainstream institutional finance.
The service, developed with Circle, is designed to let institutions move value across traditional and digital financial ecosystems with greater speed and transparency by connecting fiat banking, digital asset infrastructure and public blockchain networks within a single, bank-led solution. Standard Chartered said the offering is aimed at uses including on-chain settlement, treasury operations and liquidity management, with payment applications planned for later.
“Financial institutions are increasingly looking for trusted ways to access stablecoins and participate in blockchain-enabled financial markets,” said Circle Chief Commercial Officer Kash Razzaghi, in a statement. “By integrating Circle’s regulated stablecoin infrastructure into Standard Chartered’s global banking platform, we are helping institutions access new opportunities to use USDC across payments, settlement and treasury operations while maintaining the compliance, governance, and risk management standards they expect.”
The rollout begins in the bank's Dubai International Financial Center operations, part of what Standard Chartered described as the first phase of a broader global stablecoin strategy it intends to extend to other markets pending regulatory clearance.
The announcement comes as banks worldwide race to build stablecoin infrastructure following a wave of regulatory clarity in major markets—including last year’s GENIUS Act signing in the U.S.—with traditional lenders increasingly positioning themselves as intermediaries between conventional finance and blockchain-based assets.
Circle (CRCL) stock popped soon after markets opened Thursday, rising to a recent price of $67.75—a more than 9% gain on the day, per data from Yahoo Finance.
CRCL shares fell earlier this week following the announcement of Open USD, a rival, upcoming stablecoin with backing from more than 140 major crypto and financial industry firms—including Circle's close ally, Coinbase. Shares remain down about 33% over the last month amid a broader crypto market swoon.
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In brief Standard Chartered has become the first Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) to offer institutional clients direct access to mint and redeem USDC. The service, launching first through the bank's Dubai (DIFC) operations, targets uses like on-chain settlement, treasury, and liquidity management, with payment features planned later. The launch is the first phase of a broader global stablecoin strategy, with Standard Chartered planning to expand to other markets pending regulatory approval. Standard Chartered announced Wednesday that it has launched a service allowing institutional clients to mint and redeem USDC, the stablecoin issued by Circle Internet Group, directly through the bank rather than opening separate accounts with the crypto firm.
The bank said the launch makes it the first Global Systemically Important Bank licensed to offer institutional clients integrated access to USDC minting and redemption through a single onboarding and service experience, without requiring clients to hold direct accounts with Circle.
The designation places Standard Chartered, one of roughly 30 banks worldwide deemed critical enough to the global financial system to face heightened regulatory scrutiny, at the forefront of banks moving to fold stablecoins into mainstream institutional finance.
The service, developed with Circle, is designed to let institutions move value across traditional and digital financial ecosystems with greater speed and transparency by connecting fiat banking, digital asset infrastructure and public blockchain networks within a single, bank-led solution. Standard Chartered said the offering is aimed at uses including on-chain settlement, treasury operations and liquidity management, with payment applications planned for later.
“Financial institutions are increasingly looking for trusted ways to access stablecoins and participate in blockchain-enabled financial markets,” said Circle Chief Commercial Officer Kash Razzaghi, in a statement. “By integrating Circle’s regulated stablecoin infrastructure into Standard Chartered’s global banking platform, we are helping institutions access new opportunities to use USDC across payments, settlement and treasury operations while maintaining the compliance, governance, and risk management standards they expect.”
The rollout begins in the bank's Dubai International Financial Center operations, part of what Standard Chartered described as the first phase of a broader global stablecoin strategy it intends to extend to other markets pending regulatory clearance.
The announcement comes as banks worldwide race to build stablecoin infrastructure following a wave of regulatory clarity in major markets—including last year’s GENIUS Act signing in the U.S.—with traditional lenders increasingly positioning themselves as intermediaries between conventional finance and blockchain-based assets.
Circle (CRCL) stock popped soon after markets opened Thursday, rising to a recent price of $67.75—a more than 9% gain on the day, per data from Yahoo Finance.
CRCL shares fell earlier this week following the announcement of Open USD, a rival, upcoming stablecoin with backing from more than 140 major crypto and financial industry firms—including Circle's close ally, Coinbase. Shares remain down about 33% over the last month amid a broader crypto market swoon.
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Grass, a Solana-based DePIN protocol monetizing contributor’s unused bandwidth, has once again come under fire from disgruntled farmers.
With Grass opting to distribute nearly $3M to Season 2 participants in $USDC, crypto traders and investors are torn over the role and necessity of the protocol’s native token, $GRASS.
Investors and farmers alike now eagerly await next week’s Tokenholder call, in which Grass is expected to communicate more information about its recent revenue growth.
Grass Farmers Disappointed by Season 2 Rewards The Grass Foundation has unveiled its Stage 2 rewards checker, allowing network contributors to see what they’ve earned in exchange for sharing their unused bandwidth to power Grass’ web-crawling data sales to AI labs.
Estimates suggest that Grass is distributing just under $3M USDC to users, who ran the DePIN protocol’s browser extension on the devices in exchange for points throughout Stage 2, which ran from October 2024 to June 2026.
As is often the case in incentive campaigns with no capital requirement, contributors are seething over their allocations. Thousands of frustrated users expressed their complaints on Grass’ social media accounts, with many threatening to delete and uninstall the application.
This is not the first time that Grass contributors have been left disappointed by reward allocations. Users voiced similar concerns during the $GRASS TGE in 2024, which saw thousands of network contributors slandering the protocol for exploiting users.
Analysts Argue over Role of $GRASS Token Furious farmers aside, yesterday’s Grass Foundation announcement sparked fresh debate between crypto analysts and investors over the role of tokens. Where typically, most DePIN networks distribute rewards in the protocol’s native token, Grass instead chose to reward its contributors in $USDC.
According to Grass co-founder Andrej Radonjic, contributors have been paid out in $USDC because the DePIN protocol has reached profitability. Radonjic asserts this places Grass in “the unusual position of being able to compensate contributors directly from the revenue the network generates.”
While some investors proclaimed that $USDC payouts will reduce sell pressure on $GRASS itself, detractors are arguing that the token now serves no effective purpose.
With $GRASS no longer being used to incentivize network participation, concerns are mounting over the role and utility of the token. Despite having strong revenue figures, which have been independently verified under NDA by Messari and EV3 Ventures, Grass has not announced any means of token value accrual outside $350,000 in buybacks executed in December 2025.
On the side of the fence, advocates claim that Grass is heading into what was previously uncharted territory for the majority of for DePIN protocols.
Contributors Seek Answers in Upcoming Tokenholder Call With the crypto community divided on the role of the $GRASS token, all eyes now turn to the protocol’s upcoming token holder call, scheduled for July 7th. The raging debate over the common dual equity-token has been exacerbated this week, with Venice announcing a $65M Series A round led by Dragonfly. Critics argue that the raise dilutes and devalues the product’s native token, enriching equity holders at the expense of tokenholders.
For $GRASS, supporters and critics alike are eager to learn more about potential $GRASS utility, as well as confirmation of the network’s financials. Estimates based on recent growth and previous quarterly records suggest that Grass could be on track to generate between $50-$100M in annual revenue, which tokenholders are desperately hoping will begin flowing to protocol’s native asset.
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Institutions will be able to combine custody, banking and stablecoin services through a single onboarding process.
Standard Chartered has become the first global systematically important bank (G-SIB) to let institutional clients mint and redeem USDC directly through its banking platform, the lender has said.
The service removes the need for eligible clients to open separate accounts with Circle, the issuer of USDC, giving them a single onboarding process for both traditional banking and stablecoin access.
Standard Chartered Brings USDC Services Into Its Banking Platform The new service, announced on July 2, has been developed in collaboration with Circle and will let institutional clients that qualify to mint and redeem USDC through Standard Chartered’s operations in the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC). According to the bank, clients will be able to access banking, custody and digital asset services through one integrated platform while using USDC for on-chain settlement and treasury management.
Initially, the offering will be available only through the bank’s DIFC business. However, Standard Chartered said it plans to expand it to more markets once it receives regulatory approvals.
“Digital assets are becoming an increasingly important component of global financial infrastructure, and institutional clients are seeking the same levels of trust and governance that underpin traditional markets,” said Roberto Hoornweg, Standard Chartered’s chief of corporate and investment banking.
Furthermore, he noted that the launch is meant to support wider institutional participation in crypto markets through established compliance and risk management standards.
Crypto market watchers viewed the announcement as another sign that the stablecoin infrastructure is moving further into regulated finance, with Spot On Chain’s Hupzy writing on X that placing a G-SIB directly into the USDC minting process will remove a major operational hurdle for institutions that in the past relied on exchanges or over-the-counter desks to get stablecoins. According to the analyst, the arrangement has the potential to increase the use of USDC among institutions, deepening on-chain liquidity in the process.
Stablecoin Competition Growing Standard Chartered’s announcement came just a day after the introduction of OpenUSD, a new stablecoin backed by more than 140 companies, including Visa, Mastercard, Stripe, Coinbase, Ripple, and BlackRock. The project, designed around collaborative governance and revenue sharing, has added another competitor to the race to build institutional stablecoin infrastructure.
You may also like: Can Circle Defend Its Stablecoin Lead Against OpenUSD? Experts Weigh In Ripple’s OpenUSD Move: Payment Infrastructure Push or XRP Value Catalyst? What is OpenUSD (OUSD)? Visa, BlackRock, Coinbase, and 140+ Firms Fuel Buzz Around New Stablecoin The bank has already been expanding its presence in regulated digital assets, including in April this year, when it was among the first groups to get a Hong Kong stablecoin issuer license, allowing it to mint Hong Kong dollar-backed stablecoins for cross-border payments.
It has been about a month since the last earnings report for GitLab Inc. (GTLB - Free Report) . Shares have added about 1.9% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.
But investors have to be wondering, will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Gitlab due for a pullback? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at the latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important drivers.
Gitlab Q1 Earnings Beat Estimate, Revenues Up Y/YGitLab delivered first-quarter fiscal 2027 non-GAAP earnings of 23 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 20 cents by 15%.
Total revenues were $264.2 million, topping the consensus mark of $254 million by 4.04%. The top line increased 23% year over year, supported by solid demand for GitLab’s DevSecOps platform.
GitLab’s Q1 Top-Line DetailsSubscriptions, self-managed and SaaS revenues (90.6% of total revenues) increased 18% year over year to $239.3 million, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 3.16%. License, self-managed and other revenues (9.4% of total revenues) rose 25% year over year to $24.9 million.
GitLab’s revenue growth was supported by continued strength in enterprise adoption and customer expansion metrics. Customers with more than $5,000 of ARR increased to 10,831 (up 7% year over year), while customers with more than $100,000 of ARR rose to 1,519 (up 18%). Dollar-Based Net Retention Rate was 117%.
Contracted demand also improved. Total RPO grew 18% year over year to $1.1 billion, while current RPO increased 24% year over year to $724.1 million.
GitLab’s Operating DetailsOn a non-GAAP basis, research & development expenses increased 13.1% year over year to $57.9 million. Sales and marketing expenses were up 19.2% year over year to $101.9 million. General and administrative expenses increased 11.7% year over year to $34.3 million in the reported quarter.
Profitability improved year over year. GitLab reported non-GAAP operating income of $37.5 million compared with $26.1 million a year ago. The non-GAAP operating margin expanded to14.2% from 12.2%. Non-GAAP gross margin was 87.7% in the first quarter of fiscal 2027.
GitLab’s Balance Sheet & Cash FlowAs of April 30, 2026, cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments were $1.36 billion compared with $1.25 billion as of Jan. 31, 2026.
In the reported quarter, the company generated cash flow from operations of $149.2 million compared with $45.7 million in the previous quarter.
Adjusted free cash flow was $146.7 million as of April 30, 2026, compared with $41.7 million as of Jan. 31, 2026.
GitLab Offers Q2 & FY27 GuidanceFor the second quarter of fiscal 2027, GitLab expects revenues between $272 million and $274 million.
Non-GAAP operating income is expected to be in the range of $30-$32 million for the fiscal second quarter.
Non-GAAP earnings for the fiscal second quarter are expected to be between 17 cents and 18 cents per share.
For fiscal 2027, GitLab raised revenue guidance to between $1.112 billion and $1.118 billion.
Non-GAAP operating income is expected to be in the range of $135-$141 million for fiscal 2027.
Non-GAAP earnings are expected to be between 79 cents and 82 cents per share.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?Since the earnings release, investors have witnessed a downward trend in estimates revision.
The consensus estimate has shifted 26.32% due to these changes.
VGM ScoresCurrently, Gitlab has a strong Growth Score of A, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with an F. Following the exact same course, the stock was allocated a grade of F on the value side, putting it in the lowest quintile for this investment strategy.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Notably, Gitlab has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). We expect an above average return from the stock in the next few months.
Performance of an Industry PlayerGitlab belongs to the Zacks Internet - Software industry. Another stock from the same industry, Snowflake Inc. (SNOW - Free Report) , has gained 8.3% over the past month. More than a month has passed since the company reported results for the quarter ended April 2026.
Snowflake reported revenues of $1.39 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +33.5%. EPS of $0.39 for the same period compares with $0.24 a year ago.
Snowflake is expected to post earnings of $0.45 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +28.6%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged.
Snowflake has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) based on the overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions. Additionally, the stock has a VGM Score of D.
Teradyne stock gains 38% in three months as AI demand boosts semiconductor testing, acquisitions expand capabilities, and a strong Q2 guidance supports growth.
Investors in Darling Ingredients Inc. (DAR - Free Report) need to pay close attention to the stock based on moves in the options market lately. That is because the July 17, 2026 $35 Call had some of the highest implied volatility of all equity options today.
What is Implied Volatility?Implied volatility shows how much movement the market is expecting in the future. Options with high levels of implied volatility suggest that investors in the underlying stocks are expecting a big move in one direction or the other. It could also mean there is an event coming up soon that may cause a big rally or a huge sell-off. However, implied volatility is only one piece of the puzzle when putting together an options trading strategy.
What do the Analysts Think?Clearly, options traders are pricing in a big move for Darling Ingredients shares, but what is the fundamental picture for the company? Currently, Darling Ingredients is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) in the Food – Miscellaneous industry that ranks in the Bottom 20% of our Zacks Industry Rank. Over the last 60 days, no analyst increased the earnings estimates for the to-be-reported quarter, while one has dropped the estimates. The net effect has taken our Zacks Consensus Estimate for the to-be-reported quarter from $1.24 per share to $1.26 in that period.
Given the way analysts feel about Darling Ingredients right now, this huge implied volatility could mean there’s a trade developing. Oftentimes, options traders look for options with high levels of implied volatility to sell premium. This is a strategy many seasoned traders use because it captures decay. At expiration, the hope for these traders is that the underlying stock does not move as much as originally expected.
Investors looking for stocks in the Chemical - Diversified sector might want to consider either Eastman Chemical (EMN) or Innospec (IOSP). But which of these two stocks presents investors with the better value opportunity right now?
If you are looking for a stock that has a solid history of beating earnings estimates and is in a good position to maintain the trend in its next quarterly report, you should consider Arch Capital Group (ACGL - Free Report) . This company, which is in the Zacks Insurance - Property and Casualty industry, shows potential for another earnings beat.
This property and casualty insurer has an established record of topping earnings estimates, especially when looking at the previous two reports. The company boasts an average surprise for the past two quarters of 10.86%.
For the last reported quarter, Arch Capital came out with earnings of $2.5 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.45 per share, representing a surprise of 2.04%. For the previous quarter, the company was expected to post earnings of $2.49 per share and it actually produced earnings of $2.98 per share, delivering a surprise of 19.68%.
Price and EPS Surprise
For Arch Capital, estimates have been trending higher, thanks in part to this earnings surprise history. And when you look at the stock's positive Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction), it's a great indicator of a future earnings beat, especially when combined with its solid Zacks Rank.
Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Arch Capital currently has an Earnings ESP of +9.02%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner. We expect the company's next earnings report to be released on July 28, 2026.
When the Earnings ESP comes up negative, investors should note that this will reduce the predictive power of the metric. But, a negative value is not indicative of a stock's earnings miss.
Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, though this is not the only reason why their shares gain. Additionally, some stocks may remain stable even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.
Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
AI infrastructure and data center investments remain key growth drivers for the Zacks Building Products – Heavy Construction industry in 2026, supported by rising demand for cloud computing, AI workloads, fiber connectivity and utility upgrades. Strong federal and state funding for transportation, water and energy infrastructure, along with investments in grid modernization, power transmission, natural gas and industrial projects, is further expanding the industry's multiyear project pipeline and improving revenue visibility. Within this favorable backdrop, companies such as EMCOR Group, Inc. (EME - Free Report) , MasTec (MTZ - Free Report) , Dycom Industries (DY - Free Report) and Tutor Perini Corporation (TPC - Free Report) are well positioned, benefiting from diversified capabilities, technical expertise and disciplined execution.
However, persistent skilled labor shortages continue to constrain project execution, increase wage costs and intensify competition for qualified workers. At the same time, larger and more complex projects, inflationary pressures, evolving project scopes, permitting delays and funding uncertainties are placing greater pressure on margins, making disciplined bidding, cost control and execution increasingly important for sustaining profitability.
Industry Description The Zacks Building Products - Heavy Construction industry consists of mechanical and electrical construction, industrial and energy infrastructure, as well as building service providers. This industry comprises heavy civil construction companies that specialize in the building and reconstruction of transportation projects, including highways, roads, bridges, airfields, ports and light rail. The companies serve commercial, industrial, utility and institutional clients. The industry players are engaged in the engineering, construction and maintenance of communications infrastructure, oil and natural gas pipelines, as well as processing facilities for energy and utility industries. These firms are also engaged in mining and dredging services in the United States and internationally.
4 Trends Shaping the Future of the Heavy Construction Industry AI Infrastructure & Data Center Demand Drive Growth: AI infrastructure remains one of the strongest tailwinds for the U.S. Heavy Construction industry in 2026. Rapid growth in cloud computing, AI workloads and digital transformation is fueling demand for data centers, which require large-scale site work, electrical systems, mechanical systems, cooling infrastructure, fiber connectivity and utility upgrades. These projects are also expanding opportunities across adjacent areas such as grid connections, substations, concrete work and long-haul fiber networks. Rising demand for low-latency connectivity between data centers is further supporting telecom and fiber construction. Given the multiyear nature of these investments, contractors with scale, skilled labor and complex project execution capabilities are likely to benefit from strong backlog visibility and sustained bidding activity.
Infrastructure, Power & Energy Spending Stay Strong: Public infrastructure and energy-related construction remain major growth drivers for 2026. Federal and state spending continues to support highways, bridges, transit systems, airports, ports, water and wastewater projects. At the same time, rising electricity demand is driving investment in transmission lines, substations, grid hardening and reliability upgrades. Energy security needs are also supporting natural gas, LNG, power generation and industrial infrastructure projects. These trends are creating a broad-based construction pipeline beyond data centers. Large public and energy projects typically span several years, giving the industry better revenue visibility. The combination of aging infrastructure, electrification, industrial reshoring and energy demand should keep project activity elevated through 2026.
Labor Shortages Remain a Key Constraint: Skilled labor availability remains one of the biggest headwinds for the U.S. heavy construction industry in 2026. Demand is rising across data centers, utilities, transportation, energy and public infrastructure at the same time, increasing competition for qualified workers. Large, complex projects require experienced electricians, mechanical workers, civil crews, project managers and safety professionals. A tight labor market can limit how quickly contractors scale, delay project schedules and raise wage costs. Companies are investing more in training, recruitment and workforce development, but labor supply remains a structural issue. This is especially important as customers seek execution certainty on multiyear projects and may prefer contractors that can reliably secure skilled crews.
Project Complexity, Costs & Timing Pressure Margins: Despite strong demand, margin pressure remains a key industry headwind. Heavy construction projects are becoming larger and more complex, especially in AI infrastructure, power, transit and public works. These projects often involve evolving designs, changing scopes, tight schedules and coordination across several trades. Contract mix can also affect profitability, as cost-plus, construction management and early-stage design projects may carry lower margins than traditional fixed-price work. Inflation in materials, equipment and subcontractor costs further increases the need for disciplined bidding and contract management. Permitting delays, funding approvals and customer timing decisions can also shift revenue recognition. As a result, execution discipline remains critical to converting strong demand into profitable growth.
Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Bright Prospects The Zacks Building Products - Heavy Construction industry is a nine-stock group within the broader Zacks Construction sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #38, which places it in the top 15% of more than 250 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates bullish near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
The industry’s positioning in the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is a result of a higher earnings outlook for the constituent companies in aggregate. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are gradually gaining confidence in this group’s earnings growth potential. Since April 2026, the industry’s earnings estimates for 2027 have increased to $11.26 per share from $11.06.
Before highlighting a few stocks worth considering for your portfolio, let’s first review the industry’s recent stock market performance and valuation trends.
Industry Outperforms Sector & the S&P 500 The Zacks Building Products - Heavy Construction industry has performed better than the broader Zacks Construction sector and the Zacks S&P 500 Composite over the past year.
Stocks in this industry have collectively gained 79% compared with the broader sector’s 22.8% rise. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 has jumped 22.9% in the said period.
One-Year Price Performance
Industry's Current Valuation On the basis of the forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio, which is a commonly used multiple for valuing heavy construction stocks, the industry is currently trading at 27.74X versus the S&P 500’s 21.13X and the sector’s 22.34X.
Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 28.44X, as low as 12.90X and at a median of 17.61X, as the chart below shows.
Industry’s P/E Ratio (Forward 12-Month) Versus S&P 500
Industry’s P/E Ratio (Forward 12-Month) Versus Sector
4 Heavy Construction Stocks to Buy Now Here, we have discussed four stocks from the industry that have solid growth potential.
MasTec: Based in Coral Gables, FL, this is a leading infrastructure construction company operating mainly throughout North America. MasTec's growth outlook is supported by strong, long-duration infrastructure investment across multiple end markets. The company expects sustained demand from AI-driven data center construction and connectivity, electric grid modernization, power transmission, broadband expansion under the BEAD program, renewable energy, gas-fired power generation and natural gas pipeline infrastructure. Record backlog, improving book-to-bill ratios and growing customer preference for turnkey project execution provide strong revenue visibility. Management also highlighted increasing opportunities in data center construction management, strategic acquisitions and expanding self-perform capabilities, positioning MasTec for sustained growth through 2026, 2027 and beyond.
MasTec, currently carrying a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), has gained 130.7% over the past year. Earnings estimates for 2026 have increased to $8.90 from $8.60 per share over the past 60 days. Earnings for 2026 are expected to grow 35.9% from a year ago. MTZ surpassed earnings estimates in all the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 15.4%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Price and Consensus: MTZ
Dycom: Headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, this is a specialty contracting firm operating in the telecom industry. Dycom's growth outlook remains strong, supported by accelerating investments in digital infrastructure and fiber connectivity. The company continues to benefit from expanding fiber-to-the-home deployments, rising long-haul and middle-mile fiber builds, and robust data center construction driven by hyperscale demand. Management highlighted record backlog growth, longer-duration customer contracts that improve revenue visibility and geographic expansion across communications markets. The acquisition of National Technology Integrators further strengthens Dycom's data center and low-voltage capabilities while creating cross-selling opportunities. Additionally, the gradual rollout of the BEAD broadband program is expected to provide incremental growth from calendar 2027 onward, reinforcing the company's multiyear growth trajectory.
Dycom, currently carrying a Zacks Rank #1, has gained 90.4% over the past year. Earnings estimates for fiscal 2027 have increased to $16.35 per share from $15.94 per share over the past 30 days. The estimated value for fiscal 2027 is expected to increase 36.6% from the previous year. DY surpassed earnings estimates in all the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 25%. Again, it carries an impressive VGM Score of B.
Price and Consensus: DY
EMCOR: Based in Norwalk, CT, EMCOR provides electrical and mechanical construction and related services in the United States and the United Kingdom. EMCOR has been gaining from sustained demand across mission-critical infrastructure markets and a record remaining performance obligation backlog that provides solid revenue visibility. The company continues to benefit from robust investments in AI-driven data centers, cloud infrastructure, healthcare, institutional facilities, water and wastewater projects, manufacturing and industrial construction, as well as the recovery in warehousing and logistics. Management also expects long-term growth from geographic expansion, disciplined acquisitions, expanded prefabrication capabilities, workforce development and increasing higher-margin service and maintenance work, while maintaining disciplined project execution and contract management.
EMCOR, currently carrying a Zacks Rank #1, has gained 48.5% over the past year. Earnings estimates for 2026 have increased to $29.37 per share from $28.99 per share over the past 30 days. Earnings for 2026 are expected to grow 13.5% from a year ago. EMCOR surpassed earnings estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and missed on one occasion, with the average surprise being 10.4%.
Price and Consensus: EME
Tutor Perini: Based in Sylmar, CA, this company is a construction company serving public and private clients. Tutor Perini has been benefiting from its record $19.8 billion backlog (as of first-quarter 2026), including nine recently secured mega projects that provide multi-year revenue visibility. Management expects double-digit revenue growth in 2026 and even stronger earnings in 2027 as these higher-margin projects ramp up. The company also sees a robust pipeline of large bidding opportunities across transportation, healthcare, military infrastructure, hospitality and gaming projects in the United States and the Indo-Pacific region. Incremental work on existing contracts, favorable macroeconomic tailwinds, disciplined bidding for higher-margin projects and strong public and private infrastructure funding further strengthen its long-term growth prospects.
Tutor Perini, currently carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), has gained 67.5% over the past year. Earnings estimates for 2026 have risen to $5.18 from $4.72 per share over the past 60 days. Earnings for 2026 are expected to grow 20.8% from a year ago. TPC surpassed earnings estimates in all the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 107.4%. Again, it carries an impressive VGM Score of A.
• FactSet Research Systems stock is moving in positive territory. What’s pushing FDS stock higher?
The FactSet Research Systems Analyst: Analyst Ashish Sabadra reiterated a Sector Perform rating and price target of $240.
The FactSet Research Systems Thesis: The company’s third-quarter organic ASV grew $35.4 million sequentially, exceeding consensus of $30 million, with the growth rate accelerating to 7.1% year-over-year, from 6.7% in the previous quarter, Sabadra said in the note.
Check out other analyst stock ratings.
The company delivered strong beats on revenues and earnings, while margins missed estimates, he added.
The company has entered the "early innings: in AI monetization, highlighting that around 10% of its ASV growth in the third quarter came "directly from discrete AI SKUs, compared to almost no contribution from last year," the analyst wrote.
He noted that:
Around 90% of FactSet Research Systems’ top 50 clients are using four or more AI products. These clients are witnessing 50% faster ASV growth than the broader base. Regarding the company’s MCP (Model Context Protocol, which allows AI models and LLMs to directly connect to external tools and data systems) clients, the analyst stated that:
There were around 450 MCP clients under contract or trial at quarter-end, which grew to over 550 post-quarter. About 20 of the top 100 are using MCP on a paid basis. Around 25% of MCP users adopted full Workstation contracts to better leverage the company’s full analytics and technology stack environment. Sabadra further said that management’s 2026 guidance implies fourth-quarter performance of:
Sequential ASV growth of around $50-$80 million Total revenue growth of around 2%-5% year-on-year to $608-$628 million Total adjusted operating margin of 30.7%-36.8% Adjusted earnings of $3.75-$4.25 per share FDS Price Action: Shares of FactSet Research Systems had risen by 1.69% to $249.69 at the time of publication on Thursday.
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FactSet Research Systems Inc. (NYSE:FDS) on Wednesday posted third-quarter earnings and revenue that topped Wall Street estimates.
The company posted third-quarter revenue of $622.9 million, up 6.4% year over year and ahead of the analyst consensus estimate of $618.3 million. Adjusted earnings came in at $4.53 per share, topping expectations of $4.46.
FactSet reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 adjusted EPS guidance of $17.25 to $17.75, compared with the analyst consensus estimate of $17.71.
The company also maintained its revenue outlook of $2.45 billion to $2.47 billion, versus the Street estimate of $2.463 billion. FactSet also reiterated its forecast for organic ASV growth of $130 million to $160 million and an adjusted operating margin of 34% to 35.5%.
FactSet Research shares rose 1.7% to trade at $249.67 on Thursday.
These analysts made changes to their price targets on FactSet Research following earnings announcement.
Considering buying FDS stock? Here’s what analysts think:
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Zcash is at $422. Up 6% today. One of the strongest coins in the top 20.
And it is not alone. Monero is green. Bitcoin Cash is up 9% on the week. The privacy corner of crypto, ignored for months, just woke up.
But before anyone gets carried away, ZEC has a complicated story this year and one big test coming this month. Let me give you both sides, fast.
The move Zcash just did something technically meaningful: it crossed back above its 200-day moving average near $380 (live ZEC price on CoinGecko). That average is the line that separates coins in long-term downtrends from coins with a pulse. Reclaiming it after weeks below is the first structural positive ZEC has printed in a while.
The chart now projects a possible double-bottom, the pattern you get when sellers fail to make a new low twice. Momentum is turning: bearish pressure is fading, the RSI is ticking up, and the MACD is setting up for a bullish crossover. Textbook early-recovery signals.
The gate above is $454, the 50-day average. Clear that, and analysts see room toward $520. Below, $356 is the support that has to hold, guarding the round $300.
Why privacy, why now The rotation makes sense if you think about it. The market is rebounding, Bitcoin just reclaimed $60,000, and traders hunting for laggards with a narrative landed on privacy coins, a sector that spent months out of favor while everyone chased AI tokens and Solana.
Zcash is the most recognizable name in that sector, sitting in the top 20 with an $8 billion-class market cap earlier this year. When privacy sentiment turns, ZEC is where the money goes first. Add Monero and Bitcoin Cash both green this week, and you have a genuine sector move, not a one-coin squeeze.
Now the part you need to know Here is the honest half, because ZEC’s 2026 has been rough. In early June, developers disclosed a four-year-old vulnerability in Zcash’s shielded pool. It was patched within days and no exploitation was confirmed. But the disclosure alone crushed trust and helped crash the price around 40%. That is the hole ZEC is still climbing out of.
There is also whale behavior to watch. Reports through late June flagged large holders closing positions and reducing risk, the kind of selling that has capped every bounce attempt so far. A failed rebound near $543 earlier this cycle is the scar tissue.
Which brings us to the test.
The July test: Ironwood Zcash’s answer to the trust problem is an upgrade called Ironwood, targeted for late July. Its whole purpose is restoring confidence: formal verification and independent audits designed to prove the supply integrity that June’s scare called into question.
That makes the next few weeks unusually binary for ZEC. If Ironwood ships clean and the audits land well, the trust discount baked into the price has a real reason to close, and the technical setup gets its fundamental fuel. If it slips or disappoints, the rally loses its floor. Few coins have a single catalyst this clearly dated and this clearly decisive. Mark it.
The levels Up: $454 is the gate. Clear it and $520 is the target.
Down: $356 must hold. Below it, $300, then $251.
Bottom line Zcash at $422 is leading a genuine privacy-coin revival, reclaiming its 200-day average with a double-bottom setting up and momentum turning. The sector rotation is real, and ZEC is its flagship.
But this is a high-risk chart with a trust wound from June’s vulnerability scare and whales still selling bounces. Everything funnels into late July: the Ironwood upgrade either restores the confidence this rally needs, or it does not. Watch $454 above, $356 below, and that upgrade date above all. Privacy woke up. Whether it stays awake is a July question.
FAQ What is the Zcash price today?
Zcash is trading near $422 on July 2, 2026, up about 6% on the day, one of the strongest performers in the top 20 as privacy coins lead the market rebound.
Why is Zcash going up?
ZEC reclaimed its 200-day moving average as traders rotate into privacy coins, a sector out of favor for months. Monero and Bitcoin Cash are also green, making it a genuine sector move. A double-bottom pattern and improving momentum support the technical case.
What is the Ironwood upgrade?
Ironwood is Zcash’s late-July upgrade aimed at restoring trust after a June vulnerability disclosure, using formal verification and independent audits to prove supply integrity. It is the decisive catalyst for whether ZEC’s rally holds.
What happened to Zcash in June?
Developers disclosed and patched a four-year-old vulnerability in Zcash’s shielded pool. No exploitation was confirmed, but the disclosure damaged trust and contributed to a roughly 40% price crash that ZEC is still recovering from.
What are the key Zcash levels?
The gate above is $454, the 50-day average; clearing it targets $520. Support is $356, which guards the round $300 level, with $251 below that. Whale selling has capped previous bounce attempts.
This is not investment advice. Zcash is highly volatile and carries elevated risk after its June security scare. Always do your own research.
AUTHOR
Farhan Karim is a technology writer and content strategist with 15+ years of experience writing thousands of articles, blogs, whitepapers, and ebooks on Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, and other tech niches. His expertise in content strategy, SEO, and a keen eye on the ever-evolving tech space have led him to work with companies like Pepsi, Huawei, Arab News, and now Blockchain Reporter.
Dream Finders Homes (DFH +0.24%) 10% owner W. Radford “Rad” Lovett II disclosed the indirect sale of 56,590 shares through the W. Radford Lovett II GST Exempt Trust on June 24, 2026, as reported in the SEC Form 4 filing.
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Transaction summaryMetricValueContextShares sold (indirect)56,590Shares sold by the W. Radford Lovett II GST Exempt TrustTransaction value~$943,000Approximate value based on weighted average purchase price ($16.67)Post-transaction shares (direct)22,349Directly held shares after transaction completionPost-transaction shares (indirect)3,190,883Indirectly held shares after transaction completionPost-transaction value (all ownership)$52.67 millionApproximate value of holdings after transactionTransaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average purchase price ($16.67).
Key questionsWhat proportion of the insider’s indirect stake was affected in this transaction?
The 56,590 shares sold represent 1.74% of Lovett’s indirect holdings, minimizing the impact on overall ownership structure.Did the insider’s direct ownership change as a result of this filing?
No direct shares were sold; Lovett’s direct holdings remain at 22,349 shares, with the transaction routed entirely through the trust.How does the transaction size compare to the insider’s historical sale cadence?
This sale of 56,590 shares is below the historical average sell size of approximately 60,483 shares.Does Lovett maintain a meaningful position after this transaction?
Lovett continues to hold 3,190,883 shares indirectly and 22,349 shares directly after the transaction.Company overviewMetricValueRevenue (TTM)$4,220.8 millionNet income (TTM)$217.2 millionDividend yieldn/a1-year price change(33%)* 1-year performance calculated using June 24, 2026 as the reference date.
Company snapshotOffers single-family homes across a range of price points, mortgage origination, and insurance agency services, with revenue primarily from home sales and related financial services.Operates an integrated model combining homebuilding, mortgage brokerage, and title/escrow services to generate multiple revenue streams per customer transaction.Targets first-time and move-up homebuyers in major U.S. metropolitan markets, leveraging both internal sales teams and independent brokers.Dream Finders Homes is a national residential construction company focused on designing, building, and selling single-family homes in high-growth U.S. markets. The company leverages a vertically integrated business model, offering mortgage and insurance services alongside home sales to capture a greater share of customer spend.
What this transaction means for investorsThere are multiple reasons an insider like Lovett sells shares, some of which have nothing to do with their outlook on the company’s stock price, such as having to pay a large personal expense or doing reasonable diversification of their portfolio. However, when a significant insider like Lovett sells, investors should take notice.
Since the spring of 2024, Lovett has sold down his Dream Finders stake by 35% through this latest filing, from nearly 5 million shares. Others may disagree about what Lovett’s selling indicates, but this is bearish for Dream Finder stock. As a person who owns 10% or more of the company’s equity, Lovett presumably knows the business inside and out.
Mitigating the bearishness of the sales is the fact that he is the only insider to have sold since October, and that studies show insider selling is predictive of a price decline less than half the time. Nevertheless, DFH is down one-third over the past year, and by two-thirds since Lovett started his sales in March 2024. That was right around when DFH stock hit its all-time high.
Investors should balance many pieces of data when deciding whether to invest in or continue holding a stock. In the case of Dream Finders, weigh Lovett’s sales in your calculations.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Dream Finders Homes. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Key Takeaways ARM is expanding beyond chip licensing with the AGI CPU to target AI infrastructure workloads.Arm is seeing broader adoption across hyperscalers, with support from NVIDIA, Google, and other partners.ARM trades at 57.93X forward sales, reflecting high expectations despite strong AI growth prospects. Arm Holdings plc (ARM - Free Report) shares have surged 118% over the past year, outperforming the semiconductor industry's impressive 83% gain.
The stock has benefited from growing investor optimism surrounding artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and next-generation semiconductor infrastructure. While much of the AI rally has centered on GPU leaders, ARM is steadily strengthening its position as the foundational architecture powering a growing share of AI-enabled devices and data centers. Its expanding software ecosystem, deepening partnerships with hyperscalers and ambitious push into AI infrastructure continue to reinforce the company's long-term growth story.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ARM's Expanding Ecosystem Creates a Powerful Competitive MoatARM has built one of the semiconductor industry's strongest competitive advantages through a deeply interconnected ecosystem linking software developers and hardware manufacturers. This two-sided network has evolved into a durable competitive moat that becomes stronger as adoption continues to expand.
The company's architecture has become the preferred standard for device manufacturers because of its broad compatibility with leading operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows and Linux. This extensive software support gives hardware manufacturers confidence that Arm-based processors will seamlessly run widely used applications, developer tools, and enterprise software across multiple computing environments.
The benefits extend equally to software developers. As more hardware companies adopt Arm's architecture, developers gain immediate access to an enormous installed base of devices, creating greater incentives to optimize applications for Arm-powered systems. Every additional hardware partner strengthens the software ecosystem, while broader software compatibility attracts even more hardware manufacturers.
This self-reinforcing cycle has helped ARM establish an exceptionally strong competitive position. The company's intellectual property now powers nearly every smartphone globally, creating significant barriers for competitors seeking to challenge its dominance in mobile CPU architecture.
AI Infrastructure Opens a New Growth AvenueWhile Arm Holdings has traditionally been known for licensing its processor designs, the company is increasingly expanding its presence across AI infrastructure. Its newly introduced Arm AGI CPU has been specifically designed to address the emerging era of agentic artificial intelligence, where autonomous AI agents continuously process and execute increasingly complex workloads.
The Arm AGI CPU is positioned as a highly efficient alternative to conventional x86 processors. According to the company, the processor delivers superior rack-level performance while improving overall infrastructure efficiency. The architecture is also designed to reduce capital expenditures for customers while enabling more efficient scaling of AI workloads across cloud and enterprise environments.
This initiative represents a strategic evolution beyond ARM's traditional licensing model. Rather than serving solely as a processor architecture provider, the company is increasingly positioning itself as a core infrastructure platform supporting the next generation of AI-powered data centers.
Cloud Leaders Continue Expanding ARM AdoptionMomentum behind Arm Holdings' architecture continues to accelerate among leading hyperscale cloud providers and AI infrastructure companies. NVIDIA (NVDA - Free Report) has further expanded its collaboration with ARM by integrating Arm-based CPUs into next-generation AI systems while introducing its Vera CPU platform to improve utilization and performance across AI clusters. NVIDIA continues to demonstrate growing confidence in ARM's processor architecture as AI infrastructure becomes increasingly complex.
Meanwhile, Alphabet (GOOGL - Free Report) is significantly deepening its own Arm strategy. Through Google, Alphabet plans to integrate custom Axion CPUs into future Tensor Processing Unit systems, replacing legacy x86 host processors with Arm-based designs to improve efficiency and AI training economics. The continued commitment from Alphabet further validates Arm's expanding importance within hyperscale cloud infrastructure.
Beyond NVIDIA and Alphabet, major technology companies, including AWS, Microsoft, Oracle, Samsung, Micron and SK Hynix, continue broadening support for the wider Arm ecosystem, reinforcing its position as an industry standard.
Strong Customer Demand Supports Long-Term GrowthCustomer demand for the Arm AGI CPU has already exceeded the company's initial launch expectations. Interest has been particularly strong among cloud service providers, telecommunications companies, and enterprise AI customers seeking more efficient computing architectures for increasingly demanding workloads.
Arm Holdings also noted that Arm-based processors now account for approximately half of CPU deployments across major hyperscale cloud providers, highlighting the company's growing influence within modern cloud infrastructure. As enterprises continue accelerating investments in artificial intelligence, Arm appears well-positioned to capture a larger share of future infrastructure spending.
The company's expanding ecosystem, dominant mobile presence, and increasing adoption across AI infrastructure collectively strengthen its long-term outlook. Backed by growing commitments from industry leaders such as NVIDIA and Alphabet, Arm Holdings is steadily evolving from a mobile processor leader into one of the foundational technology providers powering the next generation of global AI computing infrastructure.
We are expecting 21% sales growth and 19% increase in EPS for ARM in the current fiscal year, suggesting a steadier growth trajectory as it continues to scale its licensing model and invest in AI-enabled chip innovation.
ARM’s Premium Valuation Could Limit Near-Term UpsideDespite the company’s impressive execution, valuation remains one of the biggest concerns surrounding the stock.
ARM currently trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 55.09X, far above the semiconductor industry average of approximately 9.51X. The stock also carries a Value Score of F, highlighting its premium valuation relative to peers.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Such elevated pricing suggests investors are already anticipating substantial long-term growth fueled by artificial intelligence adoption, expanding royalty streams and broader deployment of ARM architecture in advanced computing systems.
However, the semiconductor industry remains highly cyclical. If smartphone demand rebounds more slowly than anticipated or hyperscaler spending begins to moderate, market sentiment could deteriorate quickly. In these situations, expensive semiconductor stocks often experience amplified downside volatility.
As a result, even continued operational strength may not fully protect ARM shares if broader macroeconomic or industry conditions weaken. The current valuation leaves limited room for execution missteps or slower-than-expected growth.
ARM Stock Appears Worth HoldingArm Holdings continues to strengthen its long-term investment case through its dominant processor ecosystem, expanding role in artificial intelligence infrastructure, and growing adoption among leading cloud providers. Its architecture remains deeply embedded across mobile computing while new AI initiatives create meaningful opportunities beyond its traditional licensing business. However, much of this optimism already appears reflected in the stock's premium valuation, leaving limited room for disappointment if industry demand softens or growth moderates. Given its outstanding fundamentals but elevated valuation, ARM appears best suited as a Hold, with investors waiting for a more attractive entry point before adding to positions.
ARM carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
LOS ANGELES, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, reminds investors of a class action lawsuit against Helen of Troy Limited (“Helen of Troy” or “the Company”) (NASDAQ: HELE) for violations of §§10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Investors who purchased the Company’s securities between April 24, 2024 and October 8, 2025, inclusive (the “Class Period”), are encouraged to contact the firm before August 3, 2026.
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected].
The class, in this case, has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.
According to the Complaint, the Company made false and misleading statements to the market. Helen of Troy misled investors about the success of its Project Pegasus restructuring program. The Company touted the “fuel” produced by Project Pegasus, despite what it called “implementation hiccups.” The Company continued to tout its restructuring effort, telling shareholders, "despite the delayed savings related to our Tennessee distribution center, Project Pegasus continues to move forward. We have made good progress on the cost of goods sold work streams, implementing multiple projects that reduce costs and simplify our supplier base." Based on these facts, the Company’s public statements were false and materially misleading throughout the class period. When the market learned the truth about Helen of Troy, investors suffered damages.
Join the case to recover your losses
The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.
CONTACT:
The Schall Law Firm
Brian Schall, Esq.,
www.schallfirm.com
Office: 310-301-3335 [email protected]
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 2, 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/300032
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.
NEW YORK, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 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.
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.
