Quant hedge funds are having a rough start to 2026. The first two weeks of January produced the worst 10-day stretch for systematic long-short equity managers since October 2025, driven not by a broader market meltdown but by crowded trades blowing up: their own crowded trades blowing up in their faces.
UBS estimated that US-focused quant funds dropped approximately 2.8% in the first two weeks of January 2026. Goldman Sachs prime brokerage data put the average loss for systematic managers at around 1% over the worst 10-day window, but individual firm numbers tell a sharper story.
## Who got hit, and how hard
Advertisement
Renaissance Technologies reported a loss of approximately 4% in the early days of January. Schonfeld’s quant strategies fell roughly 3.9%. Cubist was down around 2%. Qube, Man Group’s AHL division, Two Sigma, and Engineers Gate all felt the same headwinds.
The culprit was not a market-wide crash. The S&P 500 remained relatively buoyant during this period. What actually drove the losses was a combination of crowded positioning and a short squeeze in lower-quality stocks. Lower-quality, highly shorted equities surged, forcing funds that were short those positions to cover. That covering pressure drove prices even higher, which forced more covering.
## Context: 2025 was already a bruising year for systematic strategies
Quant funds spent much of 2025 underperforming, with a slow bleed of approximately 4.2% from June through July last year. October 2025 then delivered a sharper shock, particularly for Renaissance’s publicly available funds. When early January 2026 produced the worst 10-day performance since that October episode, it landed with added weight.
## What this means for investors watching systematic strategies
The core tension is that quant funds are most useful to institutional portfolios when they are uncorrelated to traditional equity beta. When quant funds lose money in a period when the S&P 500 is stable or rising, that uncorrelation argument gets harder to sustain. Crowded factor exposure is effectively a hidden beta: it looks like alpha until a lot of funds hit the exit simultaneously, at which point it behaves like a leveraged momentum trade that went wrong.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Stocks are comfortably higher on Tuesday, with the Nasdaq Composite Index (IXIC) up triple digits as chip stocks rally. All three major benchmarks are on track for strong quarterly gains, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) headed for its best first-half performance since 2021.
The small-cap Russell 2000 Index (RUT) has surged more than 21% in 2026 and is on pace for its strongest first half since 1991. Meanwhile, economic data released today showed May job openings totaled 7.59 million, topping expectations of 7.3 million, while June consumer confidence edged up to 91.2 but fell short of estimates.
Continue reading for more on today's market, including:
Solar giant joins Open Compute Project to set AI infrastructure rules. Air taxi stock flying on Toyota manufacturing venture. Plus, defense stock options pop after earnings; and two chemical names moving today.
Options traders are targeting AeroVironment Inc (NASDAQ:AVAV), after the company's strong fiscal fourth-quarter results. So far, the defense technology name has seen 21,000 calls and 18,000 puts exchanged, which is already nine times the average daily options volume. The weekly 7/2 150-strike put is the most popular, with new positions being sold-to-open here. At last glance, AVAV was up 17.3% at $163.10, extending a bounce off its June 25, 52-week low of $135.20 and grappling with its 50-day moving average. Year to date, the equity is down roughly 33%.
The New York Stock Exchange's (NYSE) Air Products and Chemicals Inc (NYSE:APD) is up 9.4% at $296.89, after news that the company will not proceed with the Louisiana Clean Energy (LCEC) Project due to expected financial returns not meeting strict criteria. Headed for its best daily percentage gain since a 9% pop in November, the shares are up 18% year to date.
Chemical stock Mosaic Co (NYSE:MOS) is down 6.4% at $21.00, after Morgan Stanley lowered its price target to $26 from $28, maintaining its "equal weight" rating. This comes after the White House announced a temporary suspension of antidumping and countervailing duties on certain phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco. Since the start of the year, MOS is down 11.8%.
PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Western Alliance Bank (NYSE: WAL) today announced that it has been named to the Forbes 2026 America's Best-in-State Banks List, ranking #1 in Arizona and standing as the only Arizona-based bank included. In its ninth year, the Forbes Best-In-State Banks list is among the industry's most prestigious recognitions. In partnership with market research firm Statista, Forbes surveyed 26,000 U.S. consumers and analyzed more than 1.2 million public online reviews collected bet.
[url="]Western Alliance Bank[/url] (NYSE: WAL) today announced that it has been named to the Forbes 2026 America's Best-in-State Banks List, ranking #1 in Ariz
Momentum investing revolves around the idea of following a stock's recent trend in either direction. In "long context," investors will be essentially be "buying high, but hoping to sell even higher." With this methodology, taking advantage of trends in a stock's price is key; once a stock establishes a course, it is more than likely to continue moving that way. The goal is that once a stock heads down a fixed path, it will lead to timely and profitable trades.
Even though momentum is a popular stock characteristic, it can be tough to define. Debate surrounding which are the best and worst metrics to focus on is lengthy, but the Zacks Momentum Style Score, part of the Zacks Style Scores, helps address this issue for us.
Below, we take a look at Fifth Third Bancorp (FITB - Free Report) , a company that currently holds a Momentum Style Score of B. We also talk about price change and earnings estimate revisions, two of the main aspects of the Momentum Style Score.
It's also important to note that Style Scores work as a complement to the Zacks Rank, our stock rating system that has an impressive track record of outperformance. Fifth Third Bancorp currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Our research shows that stocks rated Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and #2 (Buy) and Style Scores of "A or B" outperform the market over the following one-month period.
You can see the current list of Zacks #1 Rank Stocks here >>>
Set to Beat the Market? In order to see if FITB is a promising momentum pick, let's examine some Momentum Style elements to see if this company holds up.
Looking at a stock's short-term price activity is a great way to gauge if it has momentum, since this can reflect both the current interest in a stock and if buyers or sellers have the upper hand at the moment. It is also useful to compare a security to its industry, as this can help investors pinpoint the top companies in a particular area.
For FITB, shares are up 6.77% over the past week while the Zacks Banks - Major Regional industry is up 3.62% over the same time period. Shares are looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the monthly price change of 16.93% compares favorably with the industry's 7.92% performance as well.
Considering longer term price metrics, like performance over the last three months or year, can be advantageous as well. Shares of Fifth Third Bancorp have increased 19.39% over the past quarter, and have gained 38.05% in the last year. In comparison, the S&P 500 has only moved 17.14% and 21.85%, respectively.
Investors should also pay attention to FITB's average 20-day trading volume. Volume is a useful item in many ways, and the 20-day average establishes a good price-to-volume baseline; a rising stock with above average volume is generally a bullish sign, whereas a declining stock on above average volume is typically bearish. FITB is currently averaging 7,251,068 shares for the last 20 days.
Earnings OutlookThe Zacks Momentum Style Score also takes into account trends in estimate revisions, in addition to price changes. Please note that estimate revision trends remain at the core of Zacks Rank as well. A nice path here can help show promise, and we have recently been seeing that with FITB.
Over the past two months, 4 earnings estimates moved higher compared to none lower for the full year. These revisions helped boost FITB's consensus estimate, increasing from $4.09 to $4.12 in the past 60 days. Looking at the next fiscal year, 3 estimates have moved upwards while there have been no downward revisions in the same time period.
Bottom LineGiven these factors, it shouldn't be surprising that FITB is a #2 (Buy) stock and boasts a Momentum Score of B. If you're looking for a fresh pick that's set to soar in the near-term, make sure to keep Fifth Third Bancorp on your short list.
DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Energy Transfer LP (NYSE: ET) today announced that it plans to release earnings for the second quarter of 2026 on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, before the market opens. The company will also conduct a conference call on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 8:00 am Central Time/9:00 am Eastern Time to discuss quarterly results and provide a company update. The conference call will be broadcast live via an internet webcast, which can be accessed on Energy Transfer's website at energytra.
BALA CYNWYD, Pa., June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brodsky & Smith reminds investors of the following investigations. If you own shares and wish to discuss the investigation, contact Jason Brodsky ([email protected]) or Marc Ackerman ([email protected]) at 855-576-4847. There is no cost or financial obligation to you.
Investors with an interest in Technology Services stocks have likely encountered both SLB (SLB - Free Report) and Enpro (NPO - Free Report) . But which of these two companies is the best option for those looking for undervalued stocks? Let's take a closer look.
The best way to find great value stocks is to pair a strong Zacks Rank with an impressive grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system. The Zacks Rank favors stocks with strong earnings estimate revision trends, and our Style Scores highlight companies with specific traits.
Currently, SLB has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy), while Enpro has a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold). This system places an emphasis on companies that have seen positive earnings estimate revisions, so investors should feel comfortable knowing that SLB is likely seeing its earnings outlook improve to a greater extent. But this is only part of the picture for value investors.
Value investors also try to analyze a wide range of traditional figures and metrics to help determine whether a company is undervalued at its current share price levels.
The Style Score Value grade factors in a variety of key fundamental metrics, including the popular P/E ratio, P/S ratio, earnings yield, cash flow per share, and a number of other key stats that are commonly used by value investors.
SLB currently has a forward P/E ratio of 17.72, while NPO has a forward P/E of 40.76. We also note that SLB has a PEG ratio of 1.86. This figure is similar to the commonly-used P/E ratio, with the PEG ratio also factoring in a company's expected earnings growth rate. NPO currently has a PEG ratio of 2.72.
Another notable valuation metric for SLB is its P/B ratio of 2.54. Investors use the P/B ratio to look at a stock's market value versus its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. By comparison, NPO has a P/B of 5.04.
These metrics, and several others, help SLB earn a Value grade of A, while NPO has been given a Value grade of D.
SLB sticks out from NPO in both our Zacks Rank and Style Scores models, so value investors will likely feel that SLB is the better option right now.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Peabody Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: BTU) 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 Peabody Energy securities between October 14, 2024 and May 4, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/BTU.
Peabody Energy Case Details
The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose:
The true state of Centurion mine's commissioning challenges, including unanticipated electrical and mechanical problems, roof control deterioration, and floor softening that made the March 2026 longwall production deadline unachievable. That Defendants' repeated assurances that Centurion was "on time and on budget" and "ahead of schedule" were materially false and misleading. That the mine's production shortfalls would materially impact Peabody's full-year 2026 financial results, including an $80 million EBITDA impact in the first quarter alone. On March 30, 2026 and May 5, 2026, Peabody disclosed the true scope of Centurion's problems, slashing its full-year sales outlook from 3.5 million to 2.5 million tons and increasing cost guidance to $123–$133 per ton.
Following this news, BTU fell approximately 9.7% on March 30, 2026, and an additional 5.7% on May 5, 2026, declining from $39.50 to $25.00 per share, a cumulative decline of approximately 37%.
What's Next for Peabody Energy 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/BTU. 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 Peabody Energy you have until August 24, 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 Peabody Energy 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 Peabody Energy 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.
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- $BTU #Coal--Robbins LLP informs stockholders that a class action was filed on behalf of all investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Peabody Energy Corporation (NYSE: BTU) common stock between October 14, 2024 to May 4, 2026. Peabody Energy describes itself as a leading producer of metallurgic and thermal coat. The Company owns interests in 16 active coal mining operations in the United States and Australia. For more information, submit a form, email attorney Aaron Dumas, J.
Key Takeaways Leidos combines stronger earnings visibility, AI-driven contract wins and a discounted valuation.BigBear.ai's backlog rose to $281.9M, but losses and uneven revenue keep its outlook speculative.Leidos raised guidance after Q1 revenues hit $4.4B and won major defense, cyber and AI contracts. Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important in defense, intelligence and homeland security, driving demand for companies that can deliver mission-critical software and advanced technologies. BigBear.ai Holdings, Inc. (BBAI - Free Report) and Leidos Holdings (LDOS - Free Report) are two companies benefiting from this trend, though they operate at very different scales.
BigBear.ai is a specialized defense AI company focused on national security applications, while Leidos is a diversified government technology leader with expanding AI capabilities across defense, cyber and digital modernization. Let's dive deep and closely compare the fundamentals of the two stocks to determine which one is a better investment now.
The Case for BigBear.ai StockBigBear.ai continues to evolve into a pure-play defense and security AI company focused on high-value government missions. Although first-quarter 2026 revenues declined 1% year over year to $34.4 million, the quality of revenue improved substantially. Gross margin expanded 1,278 basis points to 34% as higher-margin generative AI offerings from the Ask Sage acquisition became a larger contributor to sales. The company reaffirmed its 2026 revenue guidance of $135-$165 million, signaling confidence despite an uncertain federal spending environment.
Management is increasingly executing on its strategy of becoming a mission-ready AI provider. During the quarter, BigBear.ai secured approximately $75 million of notable contract wins, including a classified $53 million intelligence award, new Ask Sage deployments with NASA, the Army Intelligence and Security Command and the Naval Research Laboratory, as well as airport security contracts at Chicago O'Hare and Dallas-Fort Worth. These wins helped backlog increase 14% sequentially to $281.9 million while supporting a gradual shift from lower-margin services toward recurring software revenue.
The balance sheet has also strengthened considerably. Following the conversion of most of its convertible notes, BigBear.ai ended the quarter with $431.5 million in cash and investments while significantly lowering future interest expense. This provides financial flexibility to invest in product development and pursue strategic growth initiatives.
Nevertheless, the investment case still carries meaningful risk. Revenue growth remains inconsistent, adjusted EBITDA remains negative and profitability is likely to take time. The company also remains highly dependent on the timing of government contract awards and the successful commercialization of Ask Sage. While BigBear.ai possesses considerable long-term AI potential, investors still need evidence that improving margins can translate into sustainable earnings growth.
The Case for LDOS StockLeidos offers investors a much more diversified and financially proven defense technology platform. First-quarter 2026 revenues increased 4% year over year to $4.4 billion, while non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) rose 5% to $3.13. Strong execution prompted management to raise its full-year revenues, earnings and operating cash flow guidance, reflecting confidence across its defense, intelligence, cyber and digital modernization businesses.
Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly important growth driver for Leidos. Under its NorthStar 2030 strategy, management continues investing across defense technology, mission software, cyber, managed health and digital infrastructure. During the quarter, Leidos secured an $869 million MACRO II contract for AI-enabled battlefield decision systems, more than $461 million of DISA cyber modernization awards, a $335 million NSA modernization contract and a $284 million SEC infrastructure modernization contract. These wins reinforce the company's leadership across mission-critical government technology programs.
Leidos is also strengthening its long-term growth profile through acquisitions and product expansion. The recently completed Entrust acquisition broadens its infrastructure capabilities, while management highlighted more than $9 billion of defense technology awards secured during the past 15 months, with another robust pipeline ahead. Combined with consistent profitability and healthy free cash flow generation, these initiatives position Leidos for steady long-term expansion.
The primary limitation is that Leidos' mature business model naturally delivers slower growth than emerging AI companies. Integration of acquisitions and dependence on government budget priorities also remain ongoing risks. However, these risks are considerably lower than those faced by smaller, less profitable AI companies.
Relative Market PerformanceNeither stock has rewarded investors this year despite growing defense AI spending. BigBear.ai shares have lost 33.3% year to date, while Leidos has plunged 44.4%. Both have underperformed the Zacks Computers - IT Services industry's 26.8% decline, as well as the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector's 12.8% gain and the S&P 500's 7.3% advance.
BBAI vs LDOS Price Performance (YTD)
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Among peers, Palantir Technologies (PLTR - Free Report) stock has lost 34.9% YTD. Meanwhile, CACI International (CACI - Free Report) stock has delivered comparatively stronger performance, diping 14.3% YTD, supported by resilient defense spending and consistent execution across intelligence and national security contracts. Relative to these peers, BigBear.ai remains a higher-risk turnaround story, while Leidos' recent weakness appears disconnected from its underlying operational strength.
Valuation Favors LeidosThe two companies also trade at vastly different valuations. BigBear.ai currently trades at 11.19X forward 12-month sales, roughly in line with the Zacks Computers - IT Services industry average of 11.3X. Investors continue assigning a premium multiple based on expectations for future AI-driven growth despite the company's ongoing losses.
Leidos trades at only 0.69X forward sales despite generating consistent profits, strong cash flows and industry-leading government relationships. The valuation reflects its mature profile rather than deteriorating business fundamentals.
BBAI vs LDOS Valuation (P/S F12M)
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Among peers, Palantir continues to command one of the richest valuation multiples at 29.87X in the software sector because of its rapid AI-driven expansion and premium growth outlook. CACI trades at 0.96X amid its stable defense business and predictable profitability. Compared with both peers, Leidos appears attractively valued, whereas BigBear.ai already reflects significant optimism regarding future execution.
Earnings Outlook Continues to ImproveAnalysts have become more constructive on both companies, although the quality of revisions differs. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for BigBear.ai's 2026 loss has improved to 25 cents per share from a loss of 35 cents. Analysts expect revenues to grow 13% this year, followed by another 13.7% increase in 2027. Losses are expected to narrow further to 19 cents per share in 2027, reflecting continued benefits from higher-margin AI software revenue.
BBAI Estimate
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Leidos has seen modest but positive estimate revisions. Over the past 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 EPS increased to $12.26 from $12.25. Earnings are expected to grow 2.3% this year and another 5.4% in 2027, while revenues are projected to increase 4.7% in 2026 and 4.8% in 2027. Although Leidos is unlikely to deliver explosive growth, its earnings trajectory remains significantly more predictable.
LDOS Estimate
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Which Stock Has Better Upside Potential?BigBear.ai offers investors exposure to one of the fastest-growing areas of defense spending. The company's expanding generative AI portfolio, improving backlog, strengthening balance sheet and transition toward higher-margin software create an attractive long-term growth story. However, persistent operating losses, uneven revenue growth and execution risks make the investment speculative at current levels. BBAI presently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
Leidos presents a more balanced investment opportunity. The company combines consistent earnings growth, expanding AI capabilities, rising guidance, strong contract momentum and one of the most attractive valuations among major government technology contractors. While its growth rate is more moderate than BigBear.ai's, its diversified business model, superior profitability and stronger earnings visibility make it the more compelling investment today.
Overall, Leidos appears to offer better upside potential. Its combination of improving fundamentals, discounted valuation, expanding AI-driven defense opportunities and substantially lower execution risk outweighs BigBear.ai's higher-growth but more uncertain outlook. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Key Takeaways Ulta Beauty grew its Rewards program to nearly 47 million members, up 4% year over year.ULTA launched Ulta AI to improve product discovery, personalization and the shopping experience.ULTA uses loyalty data to tailor offers, anticipate replenishment and improve cart conversion. Ulta Beauty, Inc. (ULTA - Free Report) continued to strengthen its personalization strategy through its Ulta Beauty Rewards loyalty program, which expanded to nearly 47 million members, representing 4% year-over-year growth in the first quarter of fiscal 2026. By leveraging customer data and insights, the company aims to deliver a more personalized shopping experience, improve customer engagement and strengthen loyalty through more relevant interactions across its retail and digital channels.
To further deepen customer engagement, the company continues to expand the use of artificial intelligence across its customer experience initiatives. During the quarter, it introduced Ulta AI, an online shopping agent designed to enhance product discovery, personalization and the overall shopping journey. Management indicated that initial customer response has been encouraging, reflecting the potential of the new feature to improve engagement. By integrating AI into the shopping experience, the company aims to deliver more personalized interactions while strengthening its digital capabilities and enhancing the overall customer experience.
The company is using loyalty data to better understand customer behavior, anticipate replenishment purchases and improve cart conversion, further enhancing the effectiveness of its personalized customer engagement strategy. By combining artificial intelligence with its rich first-party data from loyalty members, the company aims to tailor communications and promotional offers based on individual customer preferences.
This personalized approach enables the company to deliver different types of incentives, such as gifts with purchase, value-focused offers, percentage discounts or price-point promotions, to better match each customer's needs and shopping behavior.
Ulta Beauty is evolving its customer relationships from transactional interactions to individualized experiences. As these capabilities improve, Ulta Beauty aims to make shopping more personalized and strengthen customer engagement.
The Zacks Rundown for ULTAThe company’s shares have lost 3% in the past year compared with the industry’s 7.2% decline.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, ULTA trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 10.43, lower than the industry’s average of 14.74. ULTA currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ULTA’s current and next fiscal year earnings implies a year-over-year rise of 11.8% and 11.3%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks have been discussed below:
Five Below, Inc. (FIVE - Free Report) operates as a specialty value retailer in the United States. At present, Five Below sports a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FIVE’s current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies growth of 14.7% and 34.3%, respectively, from the year-ago figures. FIVE delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 70.1%, on average.
The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (EL - Free Report) manufactures, markets, and sells skin care, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products worldwide. At present, EL flaunts a Zacks Rank of 1.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EL’s current fiscal-year sales and earnings indicates growth of 4.5% and 59.6%, respectively, from the year-ago figures. EL delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 39.1%, on average.
Interparfums, Inc. (IPAR - Free Report) manufactures, markets, and distributes a range of fragrances and fragrance-related products in the United States and internationally. At present, the company carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy).
The consensus estimate for Interparfums’ current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies a decline of 0.1% and 8%, respectively, from the year-ago figures. IPAR delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 8%, on average.
This post may contain links from our sponsors and affiliates, and Flywheel Publishing may receive compensation for actions taken through them.
Volatility can lower the cost of entry into businesses that throw off real cash, even as investors recognize that a low share price alone is no guarantee of a bargain. Heading into the back half of 2026, three blue-chip names trading well below the $45 mark stand out for the same reason: predictable cash flows, defensive betas, and dividend yields that make Treasury bills look pedestrian. For retail investors scanning headlines and watching their screens flicker red and green, these are the kinds of stocks worth pulling up a chair for.
With that in mind, here are three stocks trading under $45 that combine cheap valuations, durable income, and entrenched competitive moats heading into a choppier market.
Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) Pfizer (NYSE:PFE | PFE Price Prediction) is the global pharmaceutical giant behind blockbusters across oncology, vaccines, primary care, and specialty medicines. At a recent $24.29, well under the $45 ceiling, the stock sits roughly mid-range of its 52-week band of $21.97 to $28.28, giving income-focused buyers an accessible entry into a mega-cap dividend payer.
The fundamentals make the case. Pfizer trades at a trailing P/E of 19 and a forward P/E of 8, with a dividend yield of 7.27% backed by a quarterly payout of $0.43 that has been raised every year for more than a decade. Wall Street’s average price target of $29.15 implies meaningful upside from current levels, with 11 buy or strong buy ratings against 15 holds and three sell-side bears. Q1 2026 results showed revenue of $14.45 billion, up 5.4% year over year, and adjusted EPS of $0.75, marking a fifth consecutive earnings beat.
The bull case rests on three pillars. First, the Vyndamax patent settlement extends U.S. exclusivity to June 2031, defusing the loudest patent cliff fears. Second, launched and acquired products grew 22% operationally in Q1, led by Padcev (+39%), Nurtec ODT (+41%), and Abrysvo (+37%). Third, CEO Albert Bourla pointed to roughly 20 pivotal study starts planned for 2026, including 10 obesity assets from the Metsera acquisition, saying the company is “particularly encouraged by what we’re seeing in oncology and obesity.”
The risk worth respecting is COVID-related revenue erosion, with Comirnaty down 59% and Paxlovid off 62%, plus a $1.5 billion loss-of-exclusivity headwind baked into 2026. Even Jim Cramer recently quipped on Mad Money that with Pfizer, “you’re just buying on that dividend yield.” For value and income investors, that may be exactly the point.
AT&T (NYSE: T) AT&T (NYSE:T) is the converged fiber and 5G wireless operator quietly executing one of the cleaner turnaround stories in large-cap telecom. Shares recently traded at $22.72, down 6.5% year to date, which has compressed the valuation to a level rarely seen in dominant U.S. infrastructure plays.
On the numbers, AT&T trades at a trailing P/E of 8 and a forward P/E of 10, with a dividend yield of 4.95% on a $0.2775 quarterly payout that has held steady since 2022. Analysts carry an average price target of $30.25 with 15 buy or strong buy ratings, 10 holds, and zero sell ratings. Q1 2026 brought revenue of $31.51 billion (+2.9% YoY) and adjusted EPS of $0.57, up 11.8% YoY, including the best Q1 ever for Advanced Connectivity internet net adds at 584,000.
The bull case is operational momentum colliding with capital returns. CEO John Stankey called out the “best first quarter ever for Advanced Connectivity internet customer net additions.” The closed Lumen Mass Markets fiber acquisition on February 2, 2026 pushed reach to 37 million-plus fiber locations, with a target of 60 million by 2030. Management reiterated free cash flow of $18 billion-plus in 2026, $19 billion-plus in 2027, and $21 billion-plus in 2028, and committed to $45 billion-plus in shareholder returns from 2026 through 2028, including roughly $8 billion in buybacks this year.
The risk: leverage. Net debt-to-EBITDA sits at 2.71x and rises toward 3.2x post-EchoStar and Lumen, and legacy wireline revenue is still declining 20%+. Reddit sentiment recently flipped, with r/wallstreetbets discussion turning bearish at scores of 33 to 38 on June 26-27 after running bullish earlier in the month on a congressional trade signal flagged on r/stockmarket. For investors who can stomach the leverage, the fiber flywheel and capital returns make the math interesting.
Kinder Morgan (NYSE: KMI) Kinder Morgan (NYSE:KMI) operates one of the largest natural gas pipeline, products pipeline, terminal, and CO2 networks in North America. Shares recently changed hands at $33.19, up 25.37% year to date and 143.8% over the past five years, but still comfortably under the $45 ceiling and within reach of retail-sized positions.
The setup is rare in midstream: real growth tied to secular demand. KMI trades at a trailing P/E of 22 and a forward P/E of 24, with a dividend yield of 3.56% on a $1.19 annualized payout (+2% YoY). Q1 2026 revenue rose to $4.83 billion (+13.5% YoY), adjusted EPS came in at $0.48 versus the $0.39 estimate, a 22.11% beat, and adjusted EBITDA expanded 18% to $2.54 billion. Wall Street’s average price target of $35.33 and 11 buy ratings to 12 holds and zero sells reflect the durability of the cash flow.
The bull case is direct exposure to two of the most-watched demand curves on the planet: LNG exports and U.S. data center power. Management noted long-term contracts to move 8 Bcf/d to LNG facilities today, growing to 12 Bcf/d by end of 2028, with roughly 70% of future data center power demand sitting in KMI-served states. The project backlog stands at $10.1 billion, with about 92% in natural gas, and Moody’s recently upgraded KMI to Baa1, putting all three agencies at BBB+. CEO Kim Dang attributed Q1 to “record-setting performance in our Natural Gas Pipelines business segment.”
The risk worth tracking is commodity and policy exposure: refined products volumes fell 2% and crude/condensate dropped 12%, and tariff or permitting timing can move the needle on the backlog. But with leverage at a manageable 3.6x net debt-to-EBITDA and natural gas demand projected to grow 17% through 2030, KMI looks like the cleanest pure-play infrastructure beneficiary on the list.
The Bottom Line A share price under $45 does not, on its own, make a stock cheap or safe. What earns these three names a spot on a watch list right now is the combination of betas well below 1.0, durable dividend streams, and entrenched moats that historically hold up when the broader market gets choppy. Before adding any of them to a portfolio, readers should weigh their own time horizon, income needs, and tolerance for sector-specific risk, and do their own research on how each business fits the rest of their holdings.
Comcast Corp (NASDAQ:CMCSA) announced plans to split into two publicly traded companies through a spin-off of NBCUniversal, including Sky.
• What should traders watch with CMCSA?
The spin-off would leave Comcast as a more focused connectivity, broadband, wireless, business services and technology platform, according to BofA Securities.
The Comcast Analyst: Analyst Jessica Reif Ehrlich maintained a Buy rating and price target of $37.
The Comcast Thesis: The transaction is expected to be completed in around 12 months, with Mike Cavanaugh leading NBCUniversal and Michael Angelakis returning to lead Comcast, Ehrlich said in the note.
Check out other analyst stock ratings.
Among the biggest concerns facing Comcast’s stock had been that the company owned valuable businesses, "but investors were unwilling to pay for the full portfolio inside one structure," the analyst stated. The NBCU split addressed this, she noted.
"Management framed the transaction around industry leadership, sharper capital allocation, investment-grade balance sheets and enhanced strategic focus," Ehrlich wrote. The remaining Comcast would be "a cleaner, cash-generative connectivity company" with among the largest converged networks in the US, she further stated.
Next steps include:
Filing a Form 10 Financing arrangements Obtaining tax opinions Obtaining regulatory approvals Finalizing board approval Providing a detailed capital structure Framing dividend policies before closing Comcast will retain a stake of as much as a 19.9% in NBCUniversal for up to one year after the spin-off is executed, the analyst said.
The separation "clearly increases optionality over time," Ehrlich stated. While a combination of Comcast and Charter Communications would face regulatory scrutiny, after the NBCU separation, the company is a "more credible long-term consolidator or acquisition target," she noted.
The NBCU/Sky entity will have valuable assets but may need further consolidation to maximize its competitive position and equity value, Ehrlich believes.
CMCSA Price Action: Shares of Comcast had risen by 0.47% to $24.31 at the time of publication on Tuesday.
Photo by Daniel J. Macy via Shutterstock
Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs
The demand for application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) has been booming due to their deployment in data centers that handle artificial intelligence (AI) workloads. These ASICs are designed to perform a specific function, unlike general-purpose compute chips that handle multiple tasks.
The specific nature of these custom ASICs means they deliver better performance and higher power efficiency than general-purpose chips. Not surprisingly, shipments of custom ASICs are predicted to triple between 2024 and 2027, according to Counterpoint Research. Marvell Technology (MRVL +5.30%) and Broadcom (AVGO +0.80%) are the dominant players in custom ASICs, which helps explain their solid growth.
But if you have to buy one of these two AI stocks right now to capitalize on the ASIC boom, which one should you go for? Let's find out.
Image source: The Motley Fool.
Broadcom and Marvell Technology's growth will accelerate thanks to custom ASICs Broadcom is the bigger player in custom AI chips with an estimated market share of 70%. So, it is easy to see why its AI revenue is growing at a significantly stronger pace. Broadcom's AI semiconductor revenue shot up by 143% in the second quarter of fiscal 2026 to $10.8 billion. That was an improvement over the 106% year-over-year increase seen in fiscal Q1.
Today's Change
(
5.30
%) $
14.72
Current Price
$
292.47
The company is anticipating a much stronger increase of over 200% in its AI revenue this quarter to $16 billion. What's more, Broadcom has a $100 billion AI revenue forecast for fiscal 2027, suggesting that its strong market share in custom ASICs is going to power stronger growth next year. Marvell Technology, on the other hand, is anticipating a 20% increase in custom AI chip revenue this fiscal year, followed by an increase of more than 100% in the next fiscal year.
Marvell management estimates that its annual custom silicon revenue could exceed $10 billion by fiscal 2029. Broadcom, therefore, is way ahead of Marvell in this space. This is also evidenced by the financial performance of both companies. Broadcom reported a 48% increase in its consolidated revenue last quarter, along with a 54% year-over-year increase in earnings.
Marvell's growth was muted in comparison. Its revenue increased 28% year over year, while earnings per share jumped by 29%. Analysts expect Broadcom's stronger market position to translate into a higher earnings growth rate over Marvell. Specifically, Broadcom's earnings are projected to increase by 70% this fiscal year, followed by a 67% spike next year. Marvell's earnings are anticipated to jump by 42% this year, followed by a 52% increase next year.
So, Broadcom is looking like the better custom ASIC stock of the two by far.
The verdict Marvell stock has shot up by 209% this year, while Broadcom's returns have been poor at just 7%. However, this massive contrast in their stock market fortunes has made Marvell expensive.
Data by YCharts
The valuations explain why Broadcom's 12-month median price target of $525 suggests 41% upside from current levels, while Marvell's 12-month median price target of $240 points to a 14% slide. So, Broadcom's stronger prospects and cheaper valuation make it the better custom semiconductor stock to buy right now, as it may not be long before the market starts rewarding it for its phenomenal growth.
Just when you thought the Semiconductor/AI data center capital spending boom was slowing down, the South Korean government just announced a government/corporate plan to invest more than $1 trillion in semiconductor fabrication plants and AI data centers. That's great news for companies like Vertiv (VRT +8.23%), whose power systems infrastructure technology lies at the heart of the data center buildout. The news was enough to send Vertiv stock 7% higher by midday today.
What South Korea just announced The spending is driven by the corporate sector, which accounts for the bulk of it. Samsung and SK Hynix will invest about $518 billion in new semiconductor fabrication plants, while SK Group (parent of SK Hynix), GS Group, and Naver will invest about $356 billion in AI data centers. It's the latter that will interest Vertiv investors, given its direct exposure to AI data center spending.
Today's Change
(
8.23
%) $
25.26
Current Price
$
332.23
What it means to Vertiv Vertiv generates about 20% of its sales in Asia and has an active presence in South Korea. While Vertiv doesn't have formal partnerships with the three companies investing in the data centers, it's linked to Naver through Naver's partnership with Nvidia. In fact, Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, described Naver as being a key partner in the global AI ecosystem. Vertiv is one of the key stocks to buy for exposure to the AI data center boom.
Image source: Getty Images.
Given that Vertiv's power systems are embedded in Nvidia's architecture, Vertiv is likely to benefit from Nvidia's spending plans. Optimism on that front was enough to send the stock higher, and investors and analysts will likely start penciling in increased orders for Vertiv after this news flow.
Lee Samaha has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Nvidia and Vertiv. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Hyperscalers are building data centers, but the AI buildout can also be seen in factories. (Dreamstime)
Worries about artificial intelligence have rattled markets in waves over the past few years, including last week’s selloff. Still none of those have proven to be meaningful setbacks for tech, and the latest round appears to be much the same. That may not always be the case though.
Key Takeaways ATI shares have surged 72.3% YTD, outpacing industry growth on demand and earnings momentum.Aerospace demand is rising as aircraft production and next-gen jet engines lift advanced alloy needs.Capacity upgrades, cost cuts, supply-chain gains and cash flow support margins and shareholder returns. ATI Inc. (ATI - Free Report) shares have rallied 72.3% year to date. The company has also outperformed the Zacks Aerospace - Defense Equipment industry’s 11.2% growth over the same time frame. The rally has been driven by robust demand across ATI's key aerospace, defense and specialty energy markets, continued outperformance of earnings estimates and strategic investments that strengthened confidence in its long-term growth outlook.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Let’s take a look at the factors that are driving ATI stock.
Capacity Expansion & Robust Demand Strengthen ATI’s PositionATI's growth is being driven by strong demand across its core segments, aerospace, defense and specialty energy markets, supported by strategic investments in capacity expansions. Commercial aerospace remains the company's largest growth engine, with increasing production rates for both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft boosting demand for ATI's proprietary nickel-based superalloys, titanium products, forgings and specialty materials.
The growing adoption of next-generation jet engines further strengthens this opportunity, as these platforms require significantly higher content of advanced alloys per engine, enabling ATI to benefit from both higher aircraft build rates and increased material intensity. At the same time, increased global defense spending continues to support demand for ATI's titanium and advanced alloy products. The company's specialty energy business is also benefiting from rising investments in nuclear power and gas turbine infrastructure to meet growing electricity demand, particularly from AI-driven data centers.
ATI is further strengthening its competitive position through targeted investments in differentiated nickel alloy capabilities, including upgrades to its nickel melt system and additional vacuum induction melting capacity. These customer-supported projects expand high-margin aerospace capabilities. The company's technological leadership and pricing power in markets with limited qualified competitors and constrained industry supply help strengthen its position.
Other structural cost reductions, productivity improvements, supply-chain efficiencies, disciplined capital allocation and strong free cash flow generation have enabled debt reduction and substantial shareholder returns, while consistent earnings beats, upward estimate revisions and optimistic outlook reflect improving profitability and growing confidence.
ATI's growth momentum appears well supported by these drivers, strategic investments and operational improvements that position it to deliver sustained earnings growth, expanding margins and long-term shareholder value. Together, these drivers are likely to maintain their positive momentum over the coming quarters.
ATI’s Zacks Rank & Other Key PicksATI currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
Some other top-ranked stocks in the Basic Materials space are Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) , Dow Inc. (DOW - Free Report) and Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd. (ASM - Free Report) .
While NUE and DOW sport a Zacks Rank #1 each at present, ASM carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALB’s 2026 earnings is pinned at $12.98 per share, indicating a 1,743.04% year-over-year increase. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the trailing four quarters and missed one, with an average surprise of 74.5%. ALB’s shares have jumped 106.3% over the past year.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DOW’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $2.61 per share, indicating a rise of 377.66% year over year. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the trailing four quarters.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ASM’s current fiscal-year earnings is pinned at 34 cents per share, indicating a 17.24% year-over-year increase. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, with an average surprise of 125%. DOW’sshares have gained 80.6% over the past year.
Growth stocks are attractive to many investors, as above-average financial growth helps these stocks easily grab the market's attention and produce exceptional returns. But finding a great growth stock is not easy at all.
By their very nature, these stocks carry above-average risk and volatility. Moreover, if a company's growth story is over or nearing its end, betting on it could lead to significant loss.
However, it's pretty easy to find cutting-edge growth stocks with the help of the Zacks Growth Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which looks beyond the traditional growth attributes to analyze a company's real growth prospects.
Carpenter Technology (CRS - Free Report) is one such stock that our proprietary system currently recommends. The company not only has a favorable Growth Score, but also carries a top Zacks Rank.
Research shows that stocks carrying the best growth features consistently beat the market. And for stocks that have a combination of a Growth Score of A or B and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy), returns are even better.
While there are numerous reasons why the stock of this maker of stainless steels and special alloys is a great growth pick right now, we have highlighted three of the most important factors below:
Earnings GrowthArguably nothing is more important than earnings growth, as surging profit levels is what most investors are after. And for growth investors, double-digit earnings growth is definitely preferable, and often an indication of strong prospects (and stock price gains) for the company under consideration.
While the historical EPS growth rate for Carpenter is 138.7%, investors should actually focus on the projected growth. The company's EPS is expected to grow 41.2% this year, crushing the industry average, which calls for EPS growth of 39.9%.
Cash Flow GrowthCash is the lifeblood of any business, but higher-than-average cash flow growth is more beneficial and important for growth-oriented companies than for mature companies. That's because, high cash accumulation enables these companies to undertake new projects without raising expensive outside funds.
Right now, year-over-year cash flow growth for Carpenter is 33.8%, which is higher than many of its peers. In fact, the rate compares to the industry average of 13.1%.
While investors should actually consider the current cash flow growth, it's worth taking a look at the historical rate too for putting the current reading into proper perspective. The company's annualized cash flow growth rate has been 14.3% over the past 3-5 years versus the industry average of 12.5%.
Promising Earnings Estimate RevisionsSuperiority of a stock in terms of the metrics outlined above can be further validated by looking at the trend in earnings estimate revisions. A positive trend is of course favorable here. Empirical research shows that there is a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
There have been upward revisions in current-year earnings estimates for Carpenter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has surged 0.2% over the past month.
Bottom LineCarpenter has not only earned a Growth Score of A based on a number of factors, including the ones discussed above, but it also carries a Zacks Rank #2 because of the positive earnings estimate revisions.
You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
This combination positions Carpenter well for outperformance, so growth investors may want to bet on it.
Poised to end June on a bullish note, shares of Tenable (TENB +8.57%) are extending a climb that began with yesterday's 11% rise. With an analyst upwardly revising his price target on the cybersecurity stock, investors are finding a new reason to bid the stock higher.
As of 10:18 a.m ET, shares of Tenable are up 7%.
Image source: Getty Images.
One firm deems Tenable the leader in exposure management Maintaining an overweight rating, Brian Essex, an analyst at JPMorgan, hiked his price target on Tenable stock to $40 from $35.
Today's Change
(
8.57
%) $
2.87
Current Price
$
36.36
The firm also added Tenable stock to its Analyst Focus List. According to Thefly.com, Essex based his increasingly bullish outlook on the belief that threats from China will continue to drive demand for Tenable's cybersecurity solutions; moreover, Essex sees the company as the best-positioned exposure management vendor to address the escalating threats.
Based on yesterday's closing price of $33.49, Essex's $40 price target implies upside of 19.4%.
Yesterday, Tenable announced that it achieved Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) High and Impact Level (IL) 5 authorization from the U.S. government, making it eligible for federal cloud contracts with stringent security requirements.
Rather than placing too much emphasis on an analyst's higher price target, investors would be better served by evaluating Tenable on its fundamentals. Growing both revenue and free cash flow at strong clips over the past several years, Tenable is on a solid financial footing.
With Tenable stock now trading at 16.6 times forward earnings, today seems like a great time for investors investigating cybersecurity stocks to consider starting a position.
JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Scott Levine has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Investors interested in Diversified Operations stocks are likely familiar with Marubeni Corp. (MARUY - Free Report) and ITT (ITT - Free Report) . But which of these two companies is the best option for those looking for undervalued stocks? Let's take a closer look.
There are plenty of strategies for discovering value stocks, but we have found that pairing a strong Zacks Rank with an impressive grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system produces the best returns. The Zacks Rank favors stocks with strong earnings estimate revision trends, and our Style Scores highlight companies with specific traits.
Marubeni Corp. has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy), while ITT has a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold) right now. This system places an emphasis on companies that have seen positive earnings estimate revisions, so investors should feel comfortable knowing that MARUY is likely seeing its earnings outlook improve to a greater extent. But this is just one piece of the puzzle for value investors.
Value investors also try to analyze a wide range of traditional figures and metrics to help determine whether a company is undervalued at its current share price levels.
The Style Score Value grade factors in a variety of key fundamental metrics, including the popular P/E ratio, P/S ratio, earnings yield, cash flow per share, and a number of other key stats that are commonly used by value investors.
MARUY currently has a forward P/E ratio of 12.31, while ITT has a forward P/E of 24.08. We also note that MARUY has a PEG ratio of 1.62. This figure is similar to the commonly-used P/E ratio, with the PEG ratio also factoring in a company's expected earnings growth rate. ITT currently has a PEG ratio of 1.79.
Another notable valuation metric for MARUY is its P/B ratio of 1.62. The P/B ratio is used to compare a stock's market value with its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. For comparison, ITT has a P/B of 3.59.
These metrics, and several others, help MARUY earn a Value grade of B, while ITT has been given a Value grade of D.
MARUY is currently sporting an improving earnings outlook, which makes it stick out in our Zacks Rank model. And, based on the above valuation metrics, we feel that MARUY is likely the superior value option right now.
Key Takeaways Quanta and MasTec posted record Q1 results, raised 2026 guidance and reported record backlogs.MasTec leads on near-term earnings growth, with 2026 EPS expected to rise 35.9% on 22.5% revenue growth.Quanta stands out for its $48.5B backlog, integrated model and more durable long-term visibility. The U.S. infrastructure spending cycle remains firmly intact, supported by accelerating investments in electric grid modernization, data centers, AI infrastructure, broadband expansion and energy projects. As utilities, hyperscalers and governments increase capital expenditures, engineering and construction companies with diversified capabilities are positioned to benefit from years of sustained demand. Quanta Services (PWR - Free Report) and MasTec (MTZ - Free Report) stand out as two of the industry's strongest players.
Both delivered exceptional first-quarter 2026 results, raised full-year guidance and highlighted record backlogs, reflecting robust customer demand across multiple end markets. Yet, despite serving similar markets, their growth strategies, profitability drivers and valuation profiles differ meaningfully.
Let's dive deep and closely compare the fundamentals of the two stocks to determine which one is a better investment now.
The Case for Quanta StockQuanta continues to strengthen its position as the premier provider of mission-critical infrastructure solutions by capitalizing on long-duration investments in electric transmission, grid modernization, renewable energy, communications, and rapidly expanding data center infrastructure. The company reported record first-quarter revenues of $7.87 billion, up 26% year over year, while adjusted earnings per share (EPS) jumped to $2.68 from $1.78. Total backlog reached an all-time high of $48.5 billion, providing excellent revenue visibility. Encouraged by strong execution and improving visibility, management raised substantially all full-year financial guidance.
Perhaps the biggest differentiator for Quanta is its integrated solutions model. Rather than serving only as an engineering contractor, the company increasingly provides customers with comprehensive infrastructure solutions, including engineering, procurement, manufacturing, fabrication, logistics and construction. This integrated approach has made Quanta an indispensable partner for utilities and hyperscale customers that require execution certainty on increasingly complex projects.
AI-driven electricity demand is emerging as another major growth catalyst. Management believes utilities could effectively double in size over time as power demand from AI data centers accelerates. To support this opportunity, Quanta is investing $500-$700 million to double transformer manufacturing capacity while significantly expanding its fabrication and supply-chain capabilities. The company believes these investments position it to benefit from an estimated $2.4 trillion addressable market through 2030.
Quanta also benefits from exceptional operational discipline. Management continues targeting 15%-20% annual adjusted EPS growth through 2030 while simultaneously expanding margins and maintaining an investment-grade balance sheet. The company's diversified exposure across electric infrastructure, communications, renewable energy and large-load facilities reduces dependence on any single end market.
Challenges remain. Quanta trades at a premium valuation, raising expectations for flawless execution. Large fixed-price infrastructure projects always carry execution risks, while permitting delays, supply-chain disruptions, labor shortages and higher project costs could affect project timing. Nevertheless, Quanta's scale, vertical integration and longstanding customer relationships help mitigate many of these risks.
The Case for MasTec StockMasTec has emerged as one of the fastest-growing infrastructure contractors, benefiting from accelerating investments across communications, power delivery, pipeline infrastructure and clean energy. First-quarter revenues surged 34% year over year to a record $3.83 billion, while adjusted EBITDA increased 73% and adjusted EPS jumped 174%. The company also reported a record 18-month backlog of $20.3 billion and raised its full-year 2026 guidance.
One of MasTec's biggest strengths is its broad exposure to multiple high-growth infrastructure themes. AI is boosting demand for data center construction, fiber connectivity and electric transmission simultaneously. Management highlighted growing opportunities in turnkey data center construction, utility transmission projects and telecom interconnectivity as AI workloads continue expanding. Power Delivery backlog reached record levels after posting a 1.6x book-to-bill ratio, while Clean Energy and Infrastructure backlog continued growing at an impressive pace.
Pipeline Infrastructure has become another important growth engine. Revenues nearly doubled year over year as growing LNG exports and rising natural gas-fired generation support long-term pipeline investments. Management also noted that project visibility remains stronger than reflected in the reported backlog because many awards are still under negotiation.
Operational execution has improved significantly as well. Margin expansion across Power Delivery, Pipeline Infrastructure and Clean Energy demonstrates improving project selection, better productivity and greater operating leverage. Customers increasingly prefer MasTec for alliance agreements, sole-source contracts and turnkey infrastructure delivery, strengthening future growth prospects.
However, MasTec faces its own challenges. Pipeline activity remains somewhat dependent on regulatory approvals and customer timing. Communications margins continue facing pressure from certain legacy businesses, while acquisitions and expansion into new markets create integration risks. Compared with Quanta, MasTec also has relatively greater exposure to project timing within pipeline and renewable energy markets, making quarterly results somewhat more cyclical.
PWR vs MTZ: Market Momentum Favors Both Infrastructure LeadersBoth stocks have dramatically outperformed the broader market in 2026. MasTec has gained an impressive 97.4% year to date (YTD), while Quanta has climbed 69.2%. These gains far exceed the Zacks Construction sector's 17.8% advance and the S&P 500's 7.3% rise, reflecting investors' confidence in AI-driven infrastructure spending.
PWR vs MTZ Price Performance (YTD)
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Among other infrastructure peers, Comfort Systems USA (FIX - Free Report) and EMCOR Group (EME - Free Report) have also benefited from data center and electrification investments, reinforcing the industry's favorable backdrop, gaining 108.8% and 33.1% YTD, respectively. However, MasTec's stronger share price appreciation suggests investors are rewarding its faster earnings acceleration, while Quanta continues attracting premium-quality investors because of its superior execution consistency and long-duration growth profile.
PWR vs MTZ: Premium Multiples Reflect Strong Growth ExpectationsNeither stock appears inexpensive. Quanta trades at 46.89X forward 12-month earnings, while MasTec trades at 41.03X. Both command substantial premiums over the Zacks Construction sector average of 22.22X.
PWR vs MTZ Valuation (P/E F12M)
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Compared with EMCOR (26.2X) and Comfort Systems (40.9X), both companies also trade at elevated valuations because investors expect sustained earnings growth from AI infrastructure, grid modernization and power demand.
Although MasTec offers the lower multiple, Quanta arguably deserves its premium due to its larger backlog, integrated business model, stronger balance sheet, expanding manufacturing capabilities and exceptional long-term visibility.
Earnings Revisions Continue Moving HigherAnalysts have become increasingly optimistic about both companies following their first-quarter results. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Quanta's 2026 EPS increased to $14.03 from $13.16. Earnings are expected to grow 30.5% on 22.1% revenue growth this year, followed by another 17.3% EPS increase on 12.5% revenue growth in 2027.
PWR EPS Estimate Revision
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MasTec's earnings revisions have also moved higher. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 EPS increased to $8.90 from $8.56 during the past 60 days, implying 35.9% annual growth on 22.5% revenue growth. For 2027, analysts expect another impressive 35.3% EPS increase alongside 11.1% revenue growth.
MasTec clearly enjoys the faster near-term earnings growth outlook. However, Quanta's earnings trajectory appears more balanced and supported by longer-duration opportunities, making its growth profile arguably more sustainable.
MTZ EPS Estimate Revision
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Which Stock Looks Like the Better Buy?Both companies remain exceptionally well-positioned to benefit from the multiyear infrastructure investment cycle fueled by AI, electrification, grid modernization and energy security. MasTec offers faster earnings growth, strong operational momentum and broader exposure to several rapidly expanding infrastructure markets. Its lower valuation also provides some relative appeal.
However, Quanta, sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), stands out because of its unmatched execution capabilities, record $48.5 billion backlog, vertically integrated operating model, expanding manufacturing footprint and superior long-term visibility. Its investments in transformer manufacturing, fabrication capacity and integrated supply-chain solutions further strengthen its competitive advantage as customers increasingly prioritize execution certainty on complex infrastructure projects. MasTec currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Overall, Quanta appears better positioned to deliver more durable long-term shareholder returns, making it the more attractive infrastructure stock for investors seeking a combination of growth, execution consistency and earnings visibility.
Key Takeaways ARCB shares have rallied sharply, shifting the question to whether execution can meet expectations.ArcBest's earnings estimates point higher, with 2026 EPS seen at $5.87 and 2027 EPS at $8.51. ARCB trades at 0.7X forward sales, with low leverage and shareholder returns supporting the thesis. ArcBest Corporation (ARCB - Free Report) is no longer a simple recovery story. Shares have already surged, and investors now have to decide whether earnings momentum can justify the higher bar.
The answer is balanced. ARCB still has estimate support, a reasonable sales-based valuation and financial flexibility, but freight demand and inflation risks can still interrupt the rebound.
ARCB Rally Has Raised the BarARCB shares have risen 45.6% in the past three months and 93.6% over the past year, surpassing the Zacks Transportation-Truck industry and the broader Zacks Transportation sector over both periods.
A rally of that size changes the setup. The question is less about whether ArcBest is recovering and more about whether execution can keep pace with expectations.
ArcBest Estimates Still Point HigherThe bullish case still has support from earnings data. ArcBest delivered an 18.5% earnings surprise in the last reported quarter, while its Earnings ESP stands at +14.36%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings has moved 11% higher in the past four weeks. Earnings are expected to rise to $5.87 per share in 2026 and $8.51 in 2027, suggesting a meaningful rebound if pricing discipline, productivity gains and Asset-Light improvement continue.
See how the Zacks Consensus Estimate for ARCB’s earnings has been revised over the past 90 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ARCB Valuation Still Looks ReasonableThe valuation argument is not just about the stock’s recent gain. ARCB trades at 0.7X forward 12-month sales, below 2.67X for the Zacks sub-industry, 1.49X for the Zacks Transportation sector and 4.99X for the S&P 500.
That discount leaves room for upside if earnings estimates keep moving higher. The $168 price target is based on 0.81X forward sales, which still implies a valuation below broader market levels.
Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL - Free Report) remains a useful LTL benchmark because it is a leading less-than-truckload carrier. XPO, Inc. (XPO - Free Report) is another relevant comparison, given its large North American asset-based LTL platform.
ArcBest Balance Sheet Supports the ThesisArcBest’s balance sheet adds support to the investment case. The company has low leverage, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10.
It exited the March quarter with $86.4 million in cash and short-term investments. ArcBest also returned more than $10 million to shareholders through buybacks and dividends during the quarter, while continuing to fund high-return projects.
ARCB Risks Could Cap Near-Term UpsideRisks have not disappeared. End markets remain soft, and a heavier shipment mix has pressured billed revenue per hundredweight even as weight per shipment improved.
Cost inflation is another concern. Wage, fuel and depreciation pressures weighed on operating performance, while Asset-Light margins remain sensitive to purchased transportation costs, which were roughly 86% of revenues in the March quarter.
Why ArcBest’s Signals Still Lean PositiveThe bottom line: ARCB still looks attractive, but not risk-free. The rally has raised expectations, yet estimate revisions, valuation and balance sheet strength still support the case for remaining upside.
ArcBest currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), along with a VGM Score of B, Value Score of C, Growth Score of C and Momentum Score of B. The rank points to favorable near-term earnings-revision trends, while the B-rated VGM and Momentum profiles support the view that the stock’s setup remains constructive after a sharp move higher.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
AeroVironment (NASDAQ:AVAV) shares surged about 15% in early trading following the company’s fiscal fourth-quarter results, as investors reacted to stronger-than-expected revenue and earnings, alongside a sharply higher backlog and upbeat defense demand outlook.
AeroVironment (NASDAQ:AVAV) reported Q4 revenue of $641.6 million, a 133% increase from $275.1 million a year earlier and well above Wall Street expectations of about $558 million.
The company attributed the jump to higher product and service revenue, as well as contributions from recent acquisitions, including BlueHalo and Empirical Systems Aerospace.
Adjusted non-GAAP earnings per diluted share came in at $1.84, compared with consensus estimates of $1.47. Net income for the quarter rose to $63.2 million, or $1.25 per diluted share, compared with $16.7 million, or $0.59 per diluted share, in the prior-year period.
AeroVironment (NASDAQ:AVAV) also reported total annual bookings of $2.7 billion, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.4 for fiscal 2026. Funded backlog increased to $1.2 billion, up 65% year-over-year, which the company said reflects sustained demand across its autonomous systems and defense technology portfolio.
“Fiscal 2026 marked a transformational year for AV, which included the completion of our largest acquisition, meaningful investments toward diversifying our portfolio in critical areas aligned to our customer’s highest priorities, and the strongest financial performance in our history,” AeroVironment CEO Wahid Nawabi said in a statement.
“We are confident our proven ability to deliver at speed will continue to drive opportunities for AV across our global customer base.”
Investors also appeared to be weighing broader sector tailwinds, including proposed increases in U.S. Department of Defense spending, particularly around drone and autonomous systems programs extending into 2027.
NEW YORK, June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) 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 AeroVironment securities between June 25, 2025 and March 10, 2026, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: bgandg.com/AVAV.
AeroVironment Case Details
The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company’s business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, the Complaint alleges that Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
(1) AeroVironment understated the likelihood that it would imminently face competition from other vendors for the work it performed in connection with the SCAR program and the U.S. Space Force’s ongoing efforts to modernize the SCN;
(2) accordingly, Defendants overstated AeroVironment’s business and financial prospects; and
(3) as a result, Defendants’ public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
What's Next for AeroVironment 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/AVAV. 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 AeroVironment 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 AeroVironment 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 AeroVironment 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.
AVAV stock is soaring after the print. See the chart and price action here. AeroVironment delivered a decisive double beat in the fourth quarter, posting revenue of about $641.6 million against consensus near $558.8 million, and adjusted earnings per share of $1.84 versus estimates in the mid‑$1.40s.
Top‑line grew 133% year‑over‑year, driven by surging product sales and a step‑change in services, while full‑year revenue pushed to roughly $1.98 billion on the back of acquisitions and strong organic demand.
Management highlighted a funded backlog of approximately $1.2 billion and annual bookings of $2.7 billion with a book‑to‑bill ratio of 1.4, underscoring durable demand from defense customers layering in multi‑year commitments.
Despite softer fiscal 2027 EPS guidance relative to Street expectations, AeroVironment’s outlook for $2.13 billion to $2.23 billion in revenue signals that elevated activity levels in loitering munitions, tactical drones and related systems should persist.
AeroVironment stock was up 17.39% at $163.17 in Tuesday’s afternoon trading, according to Benzinga Pro data.
Halo Effect Across Drone StocksThe size and quality of Avironment’s beat is sending a powerful signal across the drone and small‑cap defense space, where liquidity is often thin and sentiment drives outsized moves.
The Trump administration’s push to expand Pentagon spending on drones, autonomy and munitions, alongside tighter rules on non‑compliant foreign hardware, reinforces a narrative that these names could see years of elevated demand.
In the near term, AeroVironment’s print validates drones as a growth engine rather than a niche, and that validation spreads to the sector names tethered to the same structural defense and AI themes.
Photo: Pavlow / Shutterstock
This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs
Famed investor Jim Cramer is urging investors to “be careful” on AeroVironment AVAV shares even though the drone specialist posted a strong Q4 release late on Jun. 29.
The company reported an exciting $1.84 a share of earnings for its fourth quarter as revenue more than doubled year-over-year to a record $642 million – both ahead of Street estimates.
Investors are cheering AeroVironment stock also because the defense-tech contractor ended its Q4 with $1.2 billion funded backlog – up a whopping 65%.
That said, the firm’s share price remains down nearly 60% versus its year-to-date high.
Jim Cramer recommends caution mostly because of the bearish narrative surrounding AVAV shares.
“The short sellers in this thing are so powerful,” he said on CNBC, adding they’re fully convinced that AeroVironment “paid too much” for BlueHalo.
According to him, AVAV is currently trading near a bottom, and a strong Q4 print could help keep it in the “green”, but warned the possibility of significant short-term volatility due to a coordinated assault by institutional bears remains on the table.
All in all, the former hedge fund manager favours being on guard because the “lies that have been told about this company and shading of the truth” are extraordinary.
Beyond the short-seller concern, there are “technical vulnerabilities” that warrant taking profit in AeroVironment shares at current levels.
For starters, the company is currently going for a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of about 37x, which makes it more expensive to own than the best-of-breed AI stocks, including Nvidia at about 22x only.
This premium valuation leaves almost zero margin for operational error, especially within a capital-intensive aerospace sector.
Moreover, despite the post-earnings rally, AVAV sits firmly below its key moving averages (MAs), reinforcing that the broader downtrend remains intact.
And it’s not like AeroVironment currently pays a dividend to incentivize ownership despite these technical sell signals.
Wall Street remains bullish on AeroVironmentThe final factor complicating AeroVironment's operational runway is the rapidly shifting economic landscape of modern drone warfare.
The company has historically focused on engineering complex, premium-tier, super expensive unmanned aerial vehicles.
But recent data – including from the Ukraine war – proves modern combat favours cheap, disposable, mass-produced first-person view drones over “high-margin”, bespoke military hardware.
As Cramer succinctly summarized in his closing remarks, “if they had cheaper drones, it would help.”
Simply put, until management successfully expands its product line to include cost-effective, high-volume alternatives that can actively compete with cheap international models, AVAV stock risks losing structural market share.
That said, Wall Street continues to rate AeroVironment at “Strong Buy”, with the mean price target of about $295, signaling massive further upside in it over the next 12 months.
Key Takeaways PFG benefits from strength in retirement, asset management and group benefits businesses.Assets under management rose 7% to $770 billion, supported by strong investment sales and inflowsPrincipal Financial supports growth through acquisitions, while returning capital via buybacks and dividends. Shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG - Free Report) have gained 36.6% in the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 1.3%. Its share closed at $108.51 on Monday, near its 52-week high of $112.45, reflecting strong investor confidence.
Continued growth in its retirement business, expanding assets under management and a robust capital position should drive further price appreciation.
Shares of some of its peers include CNO Financial Group, Inc. (CNO - Free Report) , Radian Group Inc. (RDN - Free Report) , and MetLife, Inc. (MET - Free Report) , have gained 35.1%, 5% and 6.9%, respectively, in the past year.
1-Year Price Performance: PFG, CNO, MET, RDN & Industry
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PFG’s ValuationPrincipal Financial shares are trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings of 11.08X, higher than the industry average of 9.12X, reflecting investor confidence. However, it currently carries a Value Score of A.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Shares of CNO Financial, MetLife and Radian Group are currently trading at a price-to-earnings value of 11.15X, 8.19 and 7.21X, respectively, in the past year.
PFG’s Encouraging Growth ProjectionThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for Principal Financial’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates a year-over-year increase of 13.3%. The consensus estimate for revenues is pegged at $16.38 billion, implying a year-over-year improvement of 2%.
The consensus estimate for 2027 EPS and revenues indicates an increase of 9.1% and 7.3%, respectively, from the corresponding 2026 estimates.
The expected long-term earnings growth is pegged at 10.7%.
Optimistic Analyst Sentiment on PFGFour analysts covering the stock have raised estimates for 2026, with no downward revisions, while three out of four analysts have increased estimates for 2027 over the past 60 days. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 has moved 0.6% and 0.5% north, respectively, over the same time period.
PFG’s Key TailwindsPrincipal Financial continues to benefit from its strength and leadership in retirement and long-term savings, group benefits and protection in the United States and retirement and long-term savings in Latin America and Asia. Continued growth in fee, spread, and risk businesses boosts the company’s long-term prospects. The company leverages a favorable market position in the retirement industry and remains optimistic about the momentum across retirement platforms. PFG estimates solid revenue growth and margin expansion across all its segments over the long term.
Principal Financial’s assets under management (AUM) are driven by solid results across its three asset management and asset accumulation segments. Total company-managed AUM was $770 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2026, increasing 7% year over year. Principal Financial’s record investment sales, strong international net inflows, expanding private market strategies, extensive distribution footprint and active ETFs continue to support AUM growth.
The Specialty Benefits Insurance business should continue to gain from record sales, strong retention, improved dental pricing, solid disability performance and better group life results. Lower loss ratios and expanding margins are expected to support underwriting profitability through 2026.
Management utilizes a significant portion of its operating earnings for mergers and acquisitions and intends to continue doing so. Acquisitions, such as MetLife's Afore business, Internos and RobustWealth, have helped the company expand its fee-based businesses and global footprint. Integration of the Wells Fargo Institutional Retirement and Trust business, along with strategic investment and initiatives, has expanded Principal Financial’s retirement offerings. Principal Financial looks forward to further leveraging the relationship to capitalize on its global retirement and asset management expertise through the partnership.
PFG boasts a strong capital position, supported by sufficient cash generation and liquidity. The company ended the first quarter of 2026 with $1.45 billion of excess and available capital. For 2026, PFG remains well-positioned to deliver on its enterprise long-term financial targets, with 9-12% growth in EPS and 75-85% free capital flow conversion. The robust capital position also supports disciplined capital deployment. The company returned $375 million to shareholders in the first quarter, including $200 million through share repurchases.
Risks for PFGPFG’s expenses have been increasing due to a rise in benefits, claims and settlement expenses, as well as operating expenses, weighing on margin expansion.
Principal Financial has been growing inorganically through acquisitions, increasing its debt obligation risks associated with successful integration.
Final Take on PFGPrincipal Financial should benefit from robust retirement business growth, fee-based revenue sources, growth in specialty benefits, strategic buyouts, and a strong capital position. However, escalating costs and dilution from acquisitions are concerns.
The board raised the second-quarter dividend by 8% to 82 cents per share, and the stock offers a dividend yield of 3%, above the industry average of 2.5%.
Coupled with the AUM growth, impressive dividend history, optimistic analyst sentiment, and favorable growth projections, PFG should continue to benefit over the long term. The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
BALA CYNWYD, Pa., June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brodsky & Smith reminds investors of the following investigations. If you own shares and wish to discuss the investigation, contact Jason Brodsky ([email protected]) or Marc Ackerman ([email protected]) at 855-576-4847. There is no cost or financial obligation to you.
LOS ANGELES, June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP reminds investors of the upcoming July 6, 2026 deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in the class action filed on behalf of investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Graphic Packaging Holding Company (“Graphic Packaging” or the “Company”) (NYSE: GPK) securities between February 4, 2025 and February 2, 2026, inclusive (the “Class Period”).
IF YOU SUFFERED A LOSS ON YOUR GRAPHIC PACKAGING INVESTMENTS, CLICK HERE TO INQUIRE ABOUT POTENTIALLY PURSUING CLAIMS TO RECOVER YOUR LOSS UNDER THE FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS.
What Happened?
On May 1, 2025, Graphic Packaging released its first quarter 2025 financial results, reporting non-GAAP EPS of $0.51, missing consensus estimates by $0.07, and revenue of $2.12 billion, representing a 6.2% year-over-year decline, and missing consensus estimates by $10 million. Further, the Company significantly lowered its previously issued 2025 guidance due to “an expectation of a 2% volume decline and $80 million of input cost inflation at the midpoint”, as well as “higher macroeconomic and consumer spending uncertainty.”
On this news, Graphic Packaging’s stock price fell $3.94, or 15.6%, to close at $21.37 per share on May 1, 2025, thereby injuring investors.
Then, on December 8, 2025, Graphic Packaging disclosed that it planned to “accelerate certain inventory reduction plans into the fourth quarter that were originally planned for 2026”, and that “[p]roduction curtailment is expected to impact fourth quarter operating results by $15 million.” The Company also further lowered its 2025 guidance. The same day, the Company also announced that its President and CEO had “mutually agreed with [its] Board of Directors to step down from his role.”
On this news, Graphic Packaging’s stock price fell $1.35, or 8.7%, to close at $14.23 per share on December 9, 2025.
Then, on February 3, 2026, Graphic Packaging released its fourth quarter and full year 2025 financial results, missing consensus estimates due to lower volumes, increased costs, and inventory reduction.
On this news, Graphic Packaging’s stock price fell $2.36, or 16%, to close at $12.42 per share on February 3, 2026, thereby injuring investors further.
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 that: (1) Graphic Packaging was experiencing, inter alia, significant inventory management issues, as well as significantly reduced demand and volumes and increased costs; (2) Defendants downplayed the true scope and severity of the foregoing issues, which were likely to, and did, have a material negative impact on the Company’s business and financial results; (3) 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; (4) accordingly, the Company’s previously issued FY 2025 financial guidance was unreliable and/or unrealistic; and (5) as a result, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.
If you purchased or otherwise acquired Graphic Packaging securities during the Class Period, you may move the Court no later than July 6, 2026 to request appointment as lead plaintiff in this putative class action lawsuit.
Contact Us To Participate or Learn More:
If you wish to learn more about this action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact us:
Charles Linehan, Esq.,
Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP,
1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100,
Los Angeles California 90067
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 310-201-9150,
Toll-Free: 888-773-9224
Visit our website at www.glancylaw.com.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.
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.
Contact Us:
Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP,
1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Charles Linehan
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 310-201-9150
Toll-Free: 888-773-9224
Visit our website at: www.glancylaw.com.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - June 30, 2026) - Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Graphic Packaging Holding Company (NYSE: GPK) 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 Graphic Packaging securities between February 4, 2025 and February 2, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/GPK.
Graphic Packaging Case Details
The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, the Complaint alleges that Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
Graphic Packaging was experiencing, among other things, significant inventory management issues, as well as significantly reduced demand and volumes and increased costs; 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; 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; accordingly, the Company's previously issued FY 2025 financial guidance was unreliable and/or unrealistic; and as a result, Defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.What's Next for Graphic Packaging 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/GPK, 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 Graphic Packaging you have until July 6, 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 Graphic Packaging 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 Graphic Packaging 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/296744
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.
For many crypto companies operating in Europe, the July 1 deadline is about licensing, market access and whether they can keep serving EU users.
How often has a crypto project operating in Europe had to ask the same question: are we actually compliant?
MiCA - the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation - is meant to make that answer clearer. It creates a common framework for stablecoins, exchanges, custodians and other crypto service providers across Europe.
July 1 is a key transition point. In jurisdictions that used the maximum grace period, existing crypto-asset service providers may need MiCA authorization to continue operating in the EU market after that date, depending on their specific activities and business model.
For centralized crypto companies, this creates a clearer path. For DeFi, the picture is less complete: MiCA is built around identifiable intermediaries, not decentralized protocols. That makes July 1 less of an endpoint and more of a starting point for Europe’s next crypto phase.
What MiCA is trying to doMiCA is the EU’s attempt to create a single crypto rulebook across member states.
Before MiCA, crypto regulation in Europe was fragmented. One country could have a licensing regime for custody. Another could rely mainly on anti-money laundering registration. A third could take a different approach again. That made life complicated for crypto businesses and users.
MiCA changes that by setting common rules for crypto-asset issuers and centralized service providers across the EU. The goal is to create legal clarity, improve consumer protection and make it easier for authorized companies to operate across the single market.
In practice, MiCA affects several groups:
crypto exchanges;custodians;brokers and trading platforms;crypto asset issuers;stablecoin issuers;companies providing crypto transfer, execution or advisory services.For crypto projects, the message is clear: if you want regulated access to the EU market as an identifiable service provider, understanding where you fit under MiCA is an important starting point.".
For DeFi projects, the message is more complicated. MiCA can affect teams, interfaces and service providers around DeFi, but it does not yet give decentralized infrastructure a dedicated rulebook that reflects how DeFi actually works.
Why July 1 mattersMiCA did not hit the whole industry at once. Rules for asset-referenced tokens and e-money tokens, including stablecoins, began applying earlier. The broader rules for crypto-asset service providers - CASPs - became applicable later, with transition periods for companies that were already operating under national regimes.
Some EU member states allowed existing providers to keep operating during a transition period while they applied for MiCA authorization. In several jurisdictions, the maximum transition period runs until July 1, 2026. That is why the date matters.
It is the point where the old patchwork model gives way to the new MiCA framework for many centralized providers. If a company has relied on national registration or a temporary permission, it may no longer be enough.
For users, that could mean changes in available platforms, assets or services. For crypto companies, it means market access becomes more closely tied to licensing status. For DeFi, however, July 1 does not resolve the central question: how should regulation apply to systems that are not built around a single intermediary?
The biggest change is that compliance becomes part of product strategy. Under MiCA, crypto projects can no longer treat EU access as an afterthought. If they serve European users, list assets for European customers or provide crypto services in the EU, they need to understand whether they are acting as a regulated provider. That can affect several areas.
LicensingCrypto-asset service providers need authorization to operate under MiCA.
This applies to activities such as custody, exchange, execution, placement, transfer services and operating a trading platform. The exact implications depend on the business model, but the direction is clear: many centralized service providers now need a license, not just a registration.
Once authorized, a CASP can use MiCA's passporting mechanism to offer services across the EU, subject to applicable notification procedures. That is one of the main benefits of the framework. The cost is higher compliance. The reward is broader regulated market access.
For centralized players, this is the part MiCA gets right. It offers a clearer route into the regulated European market.
For decentralized systems, the route is less clear. DeFi protocols do not always fit neatly into categories built for intermediaries that custody assets, operate platforms or provide services through a legal entity.
Stablecoin supportStablecoins have been one of the most sensitive areas under MiCA.
For exchanges, wallets and apps, this raises a practical question: which stablecoins can be offered to EU users?
MiCA creates stricter rules for issuers of e-money tokens and asset-referenced tokens. That means platforms may need to review stablecoin listings, issuer status, redemption arrangements and user access.
This does not make stablecoins less important. If anything, it makes compliant stablecoin infrastructure more important. Stablecoins remain one of the clearest bridges between traditional finance and crypto, but their role in Europe is becoming more regulated.
Token listingsMiCA also affects how crypto assets are offered and marketed.
Projects may need clearer white papers, risk disclosures and information for users. Trading platforms may need listing procedures and more structured controls around the assets they make available.
This matters especially for new tokens, RWAs and emerging asset categories.
The market is moving toward more documentation, more due diligence and more accountability.
For centralized platforms, that can be a workable path.
For DeFi, the question is how to protect users without forcing decentralized protocols into rules designed for centralized gatekeepers.
Operations and governanceMiCA is not only about getting a license. It also pushes crypto companies toward stronger operational standards. That can include governance, complaints handling, conflict management, custody safeguards, outsourcing controls and business continuity.
For younger crypto projects, this can feel heavy. But for institutional adoption, it can also be useful. Banks, asset managers and fintechs are more likely to work with crypto infrastructure when rules are clearer.
The challenge is to make sure the next stage of regulation also fits DeFi, where users interact with protocols, wallets, smart contracts and liquidity networks in a very different way.
A stronger market, but a tougher oneMiCA creates costs. Licensing takes time. Legal reviews become more important. Some projects may stop serving EU users if the compliance burden is too high. Smaller players may struggle more than larger platforms.
But MiCA also creates opportunity. A single EU framework can make the market easier to scale for companies that meet the requirements. Instead of navigating 27 different national approaches, authorized providers can build with a clearer route to cross-border operations.
For institutions, that matters. Banks and asset managers are unlikely to adopt crypto infrastructure at scale if the rules are unclear. MiCA does not solve every problem, but it gives European crypto markets a more defined regulatory foundation.
That can help bring more serious builders into the space. Still, the market will only be stronger if the next phase includes DeFi. Centralized crypto services now have a clearer path. DeFi still needs one.
The next phase: rules for DeFi“MiCA goes fully live on July 1st - and it gets one half of crypto right,” commented Orest Gavryliak, 1inch Chief Legal Officer. “Centralized players finally have a clearer way to operate inside a regulated framework, which the market has been waiting for. But MiCA is built around identifiable intermediaries. In its current form it wasn't designed for DeFi, and it doesn't work for it.”
“We see July as the start of Europe's crypto journey - not the end - and we're hopeful Europe follows the direction the US is taking with the CLARITY Act, giving DeFi a framework it can actually operate within,” he added. “We want to help build that next stage: working with regulators on the rules that actually apply to DeFi, for the users, the projects and the regulators themselves.”
Building a compliant solution? Consider APIs available on 1inch Business.
Disclaimer: This content is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, tax or investment advice.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - June 30, 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.
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/300543
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.
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- $CALX #calix--Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) today announced that Tipmont REMC is advancing their successful eight-year partnership with Calix to deploy Calix Agent Workforce™ Cloud on the AI-native Calix One™ platform. As Tipmont expands into new residential and small business markets, they are focused on strengthening go-to-market execution and streamlining member onboarding and retention in a competitive landscape. With Calix One, they will unify marketing, operations, and sup.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - June 30, 2026) - Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against FS KKR Capital Corp. (NYSE: FSK) 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 FS KKR Capital securities between May 8, 2024 and February 25, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/FSK.
FS KKR Capital Case Details
The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that:
the Company overstated the effectiveness of its portfolio restructuring efforts for its nonaccrual companies; the Company overstated the valuation of its portfolio investments and/or overstated the effectiveness of the Company's portfolio valuation process; the Company overstated the durability of its quarterly distribution strategy; and 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.What's Next for FS KKR Capital 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/FSK, 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 FS KKR Capital you have until July 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 FS KKR Capital 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 FS KKR Capital 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/296009
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.
LOS ANGELES, June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP reminds investors of the upcoming July 6, 2026 deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in the class action filed on behalf of investors who purchased or otherwise 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 SUFFERED A LOSS ON YOUR FS KKR CAPITAL INVESTMENTS, CLICK HERE TO INQUIRE ABOUT POTENTIALLY PURSUING CLAIMS TO RECOVER YOUR LOSS UNDER THE FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS.
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 securities during the Class Period, you may move the Court no later than July 6, 2026 to request appointment as lead plaintiff in this putative class action lawsuit.
Contact Us To Participate or Learn More:
If you wish to learn more about this action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact us:
Charles Linehan, Esq.,
Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP,
1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100,
Los Angeles California 90067
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 310-201-9150,
Toll-Free: 888-773-9224
Visit our website at www.glancylaw.com.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.
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.
Contact Us:
Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP,
1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Charles Linehan
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 310-201-9150
Toll-Free: 888-773-9224
Visit our website at: www.glancylaw.com.
RESTON, Va., June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, today announced that it has been named the 2025 AMER Distributor of the Year by Equinix (Nasdaq: EQIX), the world's digital infrastructure company®, for the second year in a row. The award was announced on May 19, 2026, and highlights the significant impact Carahsoft has had in expanding Equinix’s reach in the Public Sector.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by Equinix as the 2025 AMER Distributor of the Year for the second consecutive year,” said Evan Slack, Sales Director overseeing the Equinix Team at Carahsoft. “This award reflects the strength of our collaboration with Equinix and the continued dedication of our reseller partners, who play a critical role in delivering innovative digital infrastructure solutions to the Public Sector. Together, we are helping Government agencies modernize their IT environments, strengthen connectivity and support emerging technologies through scalable, secure and reliable solutions.”
As Equinix’s Public Sector distributor since 2022, Carahsoft has played a key role in expanding Equinix’s reach across the Public Sector, streamlining access for customers through contract vehicles while equipping partners with additional sales and solution resources, go-to-market capabilities and enhanced support. In 2025, the partnership achieved new milestones through increased marketing engagement, partner-focused campaigns and collaborative events designed to accelerate Public Sector adoption of Equinix solutions. Carahsoft also hosted Equinix’s first onsite partner event, bringing together 45 partners and supporting successful marketing initiatives throughout the year that generated significant digital transformation value for Public Sector customers and revenue for partners.
“We are proud to recognize Carahsoft as the 2025 AMER Distributor of the Year,” said Kevin Thames, VP, AMER Channel Sales, Equinix. “This honor reflects their strong execution, customer focus and alignment with our shared go-to-market priorities. Carahsoft’s expertise has helped accelerate Public Sector growth and expand access to secure, scalable, infrastructure across the entire AI continuum from multicloud to private AI. We look forward to continuing our momentum together.”
Equinix’s solutions are available through Carahsoft’s NASPO ValuePoint Master Agreement #AR2472, TIPS Contract #220105, OMNIA Partners Contract #R240303 and E&I Contract #EI00063~2021MA. For more information, contact the Carahsoft Team at (571) 662-4600 or [email protected]; or explore Equinix’s solutions here.
About Carahsoft’s AI Portfolio
Carahsoft’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Portfolio includes leading and emerging technology vendors who are enabling Government agencies and systems integrators to harness the power of AI and ultimately meet mission needs; from creating efficiencies within agencies to bolstering national security and defense. Supported by dedicated AI product specialists and an extensive ecosystem of resellers, integrators and service providers, we help organizations identify the right technology for unique environments and provide access to technology solutions through our broad portfolio of contract vehicles. Our AI portfolio spans solutions for AI Infrastructure, Generative and Agentic AI, Autonomous Systems & Robotics and more. Learn more about Carahsoft’s AI Solutions for Government here.
About Carahsoft
Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator® for our vendor partners, we deliver solutions for Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Customer Experience and Engagement, Open Source and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Visit us at www.carahsoft.com.
Investors in Elanco Animal Health Incorporated (ELAN - 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 $17.00 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 Elanco Animal Health share, but what is the fundamental picture for the company? Currently, Elanco Animal Health is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) in the Medical - Outpatient and Home Healthcare Industry that ranks in the Top 27% of our Zacks Industry Rank. Over the last 60 days, no analyst has increased his estimate for the current quarter, while six have revised their estimates downward. The net effect has taken our Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current quarter to move from 30 cents per share to 27 cents per share in the same time period.
Given the way analysts feel about Elanco Animal Health right now, this huge implied volatility could mean there’s a trade developing. Often times, options traders look for options with high levels of implied volatility to sell premium. This is a strategy many seasoned traders use because it captures decay. At expiration, the hope for these traders is that the underlying stock does not move as much as originally expected.
Key Takeaways MTDR's San Mateo will buy Cardinal Midstream Partners' operating subsidiaries for $752 million in cash.The deal adds a 320 MMcf/day plant, 145 miles of pipelines and nine customers to San Mateo.San Mateo's processing capacity will top 1 Bcf/day, with its gathering system exceeding 800 miles. Matador Resources (MTDR - Free Report) recently announced that its majority-owned midstream joint venture, San Mateo Midstream, LLC, has signed an agreement to purchase the operating subsidiaries of Cardinal Midstream Partners for a total consideration of $752 million in cash. Cardinal Midstream Partners is a portfolio company of EnCap Flatrock Midstream.
Acquisition to Expand Midstream InfrastructureThe assets included in the deal consist of a processing plant with an inlet capacity of up to 320 million cubic feet (MMcf) per day of natural gas in Loving County, TX, along with 145 miles of high-pressure and low-pressure natural gas gathering pipelines in West Texas and southern Eddy County. The Cardinal plant complex spans approximately 75 acres and has excess natural gas and natural gas liquids takeaway connections to support future processing capacity expansion.
These midstream assets complement and expand the San Mateo unit’s existing midstream network and enable it to transport natural gas across the northern Delaware Basin in southeast New Mexico and West Texas more efficiently. Moreover, the transaction will add Cardinal’s nine natural gas gathering and processing customers to San Mateo’s customer base, thereby increasing throughput volumes and boosting revenues from third-party customers.
After the closing of this acquisition, San Mateo's total natural gas processing capacity will exceed 1 billion cubic feet per day, while its gathering system will expand to more than 800 miles. The acquisition is expected to be closed by July 31, 2026.
Funding Structure for the AcquisitionMatador has highlighted that the deal is not expected to materially impact its cash position. The company intends to fund any cash contribution related to the deal using distributions from San Mateo and may also use proceeds from a drop-down to San Mateo or from the sale of a part of wholly-owned midstream assets.
San Mateo plans to fund the acquisition partly using a new term loan of up to $650 million under its existing credit facility. For the remaining part, the joint venture will use a combination of its existing cash reserves, borrowings under its existing credit facility and capital contributions from its partners. San Mateo is a midstream joint venture owned by Matador Resources and Five Point Infrastructure.
Acquisition Expected to Drive Operational & Financial BenefitsThe acquisition is expected to provide several operational and financial benefits for San Mateo. The combined natural gas gathering and processing network will enhance the flow of natural gas and reduce the risk of bottlenecks. Moreover, these assets are expected to be financially accretive to San Mateo in terms of adjusted EBITDA and cash flows almost immediately. The company has also highlighted that the Cardinal assets are expected to generate up to $110 million in annual adjusted EBITDA by 2028, provided the Cardinal plant complex is fully utilized.
Strengthening the Delaware Basin Midstream FootprintThe acquisition is expected to significantly strengthen Matador’s midstream footprint. For San Mateo, the transaction will expand gathering and processing infrastructure in the Delaware Basin, a productive oil and gas basin in the United States. The increased processing capacity, pipeline network and new third-party customer relationships should help the company support higher throughput volumes and increase its midstream revenues over the long-term.
MTDR’s Zacks Rank and Key PicksMTDR currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks from the energy sector are Valero Energy (VLO - Free Report) , W&T Offshore (WTI - Free Report) and FuelCell Energy (FCEL - Free Report) . While Valero Energy currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), W&T Offshore and FuelCell Energy carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) each at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks Rank #1 stocks here.
Valero Energy is a leading refining player with a robust network of 14 refineries located across the United States, Canada and Peru. The company has a combined high-complexity throughput capacity of 3 million barrels per day, which distinguishes it among other independent refiners. Valero’s refineries have a combined Nelson Complexity Index of 11.5, which implies that they can process a wide variety of feedstock and convert it into higher-value products and shift product yields according to market conditions.
W&T Offshore benefits from its prolific Gulf of America assets, which offer low-decline rates, strong permeability and significant untapped reserves. The company’s properties include around 457,700 gross acres on the conventional Shelf, 5,600 gross acres in Alabama State Waters and about 141,900 gross acres in the Deepwater region. Its GoA discoveries should boost future production prospects and are expected to enhance revenues.
FuelCell Energy is a clean energy company that offers scalable, reliable, low-carbon power solutions. It produces power using flexible fuel sources such as biogas, natural gas and hydrogen. The company’s proprietary molten carbonate fuel cell systems generate electricity through an electrochemical process instead of burning fuel, reducing carbon emissions and minimizing the environmental impact of power generation. FCEL is anticipated to play a crucial role in the energy transition by enabling industries and communities to shift to low-carbon alternatives.
Top national homebuilder will offer one-story, single-family homes from the $300s near Lake Havasu recreation
, /PRNewswire/ -- Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS)—a top national homebuilder, industry leader in online home sales, and featured on America's Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek—announced that DL Ranch, a new community by the Company's Century Complete brand, is coming soon to Lake Havasu City, AZ, offering one-story single-family homes from the $300s designed for modern living.
Learn more about DL Ranch and join the Interest List at www.CenturyCommunities.com/DLRanchAZ.
Gilbert Plan Exterior Rendering | New Homes in Lake Havasu City, AZ | DL Ranch by Century Complete
Verbena Plan Exterior Rendering | New Construction Homes in Lake Havasu City, AZ | DL Ranch by Century Complete "DL Ranch is designed to meet the need for attainable new-construction housing in the Lake Havasu City area while giving buyers an opportunity to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle that makes this market so appealing," said Regional President Paul Zetah. "We encourage homebuyers to join the interest list now for updates on homesites, floor plans and savings opportunities as we get closer to launch."
Located just north of Lake Havasu City, the community is well positioned for buyers seeking a new home near boating, hiking, golfing and off-road recreation along the Colorado River corridor. Buyers will be able to choose from several one-story floor plans at DL Ranch, offering 1,290 to 1,815 square feet, 3 to 4 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms. Modern layouts and open kitchens anchor each plan, which also feature quartz countertops, LG® stainless-steel appliances, Kohler® water fixtures, luxury vinyl plank flooring, spacious primary suites with walk-in closets, and covered patios.
DL RANCH | LAKE HAVASU CITY, AZ
Coming soon from the low $300s
Modern, one-story floor plans 1,290 to 1,815 square feet, 3 to 4 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms Quartz countertops, LG® stainless-steel appliances, Kohler® water fixtures, luxury vinyl plank flooring, primary suites with walk-in closets, and covered patios 2-bay attached garages Convenient proximity to recreation at Lake Havasu Easy access to Kingman and Bullhead City Location
E. Heights Boulevard and Rancho Vista Drive
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404
520.213.8607
VISIT OUR SALES STUDIO
While our state-of-the-art online homebuying process allows you to buy on your terms—24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year—we also offer in-person assistance from local experts at our Sales Studio.
Bullhead City Studio
3699 Highway 95, Suite 330, Unit #DOL
Bullhead City, AZ 86442
520.213.8607
THE FREEDOM OF ONLINE HOMEBUYING
Century Complete is proud to feature its industry-first online homebuying experience on all available homes in Arizona, allowing homebuyers to easily find their best fit and purchase when they're ready—all while continuing to work with their local real estate agent of choice. Homebuyers can further streamline the homebuying process by financing online with Century Complete's affiliate lender, Inspire Home Loans®.
How it works:
Shop homes at CenturyCommunities.com Click "Buy Now" on any available home Fill out a quick Buy Online form Electronically submit an initial earnest money deposit Electronically sign a purchase contract via DocuSign® Learn more about the Buy Online experience at www.CenturyCommunities.com/online-homebuying.
About Century Communities
Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS) is one of the nation's largest homebuilders and a recognized industry leader in online home sales. Newsweek has named the Company one of America's Most Trustworthy Companies for four consecutive years. Century Communities has also been designated as one of U.S. News & World Report's Best Companies to Work For (2025–2026). Through its Century Communities and Century Complete brands, Century's mission is to build attractive, high-quality homes at affordable prices to provide its valued customers with A HOME FOR EVERY DREAM®. Century is engaged in all aspects of homebuilding — including the acquisition, entitlement and development of land, along with the construction, innovative marketing and sale of quality homes designed to appeal to a wide range of homebuyers. The Company operates in 16 states and over 45 markets across the U.S., and also offers mortgage, title, insurance brokerage, and escrow services in select markets through its Inspire Home Loans, Parkway Title, IHL Home Insurance Agency, and IHL Escrow subsidiaries. To learn more about Century Communities, please visit www.centurycommunities.com.
Momentum investing is all about the idea of following a stock's recent trend, which can be in either direction. In the "long context," investors will essentially be "buying high, but hoping to sell even higher." And for investors following this methodology, taking advantage of trends in a stock's price is key; once a stock establishes a course, it is more than likely to continue moving in that direction. The goal is that once a stock heads down a fixed path, it will lead to timely and profitable trades.
While many investors like to look for momentum in stocks, this can be very tough to define. There is a lot of debate surrounding which metrics are the best to focus on and which are poor quality indicators of future performance. The Zacks Momentum Style Score, part of the Zacks Style Scores, helps address this issue for us.
Below, we take a look at Lamar Advertising (LAMR - Free Report) , a company that currently holds a Momentum Style Score of B. We also talk about price change and earnings estimate revisions, two of the main aspects of the Momentum Style Score.
It's also important to note that Style Scores work as a complement to the Zacks Rank, our stock rating system that has an impressive track record of outperformance. Lamar Advertising currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Our research shows that stocks rated Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and #2 (Buy) and Style Scores of "A or B" outperform the market over the following one-month period.
You can see the current list of Zacks #1 Rank Stocks here >>>
Set to Beat the Market? In order to see if LAMR is a promising momentum pick, let's examine some Momentum Style elements to see if this outdoor and transit advertising company holds up.
A good momentum benchmark for a stock is to look at its short-term price activity, as this can reflect both current interest and if buyers or sellers currently have the upper hand. It is also useful to compare a security to its industry, as this can help investors pinpoint the top companies in a particular area.
For LAMR, shares are up 4.31% over the past week while the Zacks REIT and Equity Trust - Other industry is up 3.44% over the same time period. Shares are looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the monthly price change of 3.93% compares favorably with the industry's 5.95% performance as well.
While any stock can see its price increase, it takes a real winner to consistently beat the market. That is why looking at longer term price metrics -- such as performance over the past three months or year -- can be useful as well. Over the past quarter, shares of Lamar Advertising have risen 21.99%, and are up 28.86% in the last year. In comparison, the S&P 500 has only moved 17.14% and 21.85%, respectively.
Investors should also take note of LAMR's average 20-day trading volume. Volume is a useful item in many ways, and the 20-day average establishes a good price-to-volume baseline; a rising stock with above average volume is generally a bullish sign, whereas a declining stock on above average volume is typically bearish. Right now LAMR is averaging 655,874 shares for the last 20 days..
Earnings OutlookThe Zacks Momentum Style Score encompasses many things, including estimate revisions and a stock's price movement. Investors should note that earnings estimates are also significant to the Zacks Rank, and a nice path here can be promising. We have recently been noticing this with LAMR.
Over the past two months, 2 earnings estimates moved higher compared to none lower for the full year. These revisions helped boost LAMR's consensus estimate, increasing from $8.23 to $8.41 in the past 60 days. Looking at the next fiscal year, 2 estimates have moved upwards while there have been no downward revisions in the same time period.
Bottom LineGiven these factors, it shouldn't be surprising that LAMR is a #2 (Buy) stock and boasts a Momentum Score of B. If you're looking for a fresh pick that's set to soar in the near-term, make sure to keep Lamar Advertising on your short list.
Experienced leader introduces Pinnacle brand to Orlando during Synovus merger transition
ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pinnacle Financial Partners, which merged with Synovus Bank earlier this year, named Michael McClanahan as Orlando regional president, effective June 29.
McClanahan’s role is instrumental in building the Pinnacle brand and growing its market share in communities long served by Synovus, further strengthening the firm’s presence in Central Florida as it continues its merger transition.
With more than 40 years of Orlando-based banking leadership experience, McClanahan will mentor and build a local team focused on delivering relationship-driven financial services to companies, entrepreneurs, individuals and families across Central Florida.
“Mike has spent his career in this market, building trust with clients who expect clear guidance and consistent follow-through,” said Scott Keith, Pinnacle’s state head of Greater Florida. “He knows how to grow a bank, and he’s done it by putting experienced people around the table and staying close to clients. His exceptional leadership will translate directly into better outcomes for the people we serve.”
In Central Florida and the Orlando area, McClanahan will lead more than 100 team members in the firm’s 10 offices, including nine full-service locations. Synovus first entered the Orlando market in 2008.
“Pinnacle has built a reputation for putting experienced bankers in a position to really take care of clients, and that’s what drew me here,” McClanahan said. “I’ve spent my career in Orlando, and as the region continues to grow and become more complex, clients need a partner who can keep up with that. We have tremendous opportunity to build something meaningful by bringing together local knowledge, strong relationships and a team that knows how to deliver when it matters.”
Before joining Pinnacle, McClanahan served as Central Florida market president at BankUnited, where he led teams and built long-standing client relationships for more than a decade. Prior to that, he served as an executive vice president at CNLBank and as founder, president and CEO of Orange Bank of Florida, giving him experience across commercial banking, strategic planning and growth leadership. McClanahan earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida State University and has remained active in the Central Florida business community throughout his career.
McClanahan’s addition reflects the firm’s continued focus on attracting top talent with the experience and relationships to support long-term growth for clients and shareholders. His long-standing ties in Orlando position him to bring both experienced bankers and their established client relationships to Pinnacle as the firm expands in the region.
With McClanahan’s leadership and an experienced team already in place, Pinnacle is in a strong position to build deeper relationships and serve clients across one of the state’s most dynamic regions. Orlando continues to be one of Florida’s strongest growth markets as more people and businesses choose Central Florida. That growth creates real opportunity for Pinnacle, especially as clients look for a banking partner that knows the local community and can bring more resources to the table as their needs change.
Pinnacle’s merger with Synovus, which closed in January 2026, brought together two relationship-focused financial firms with a shared commitment to serving clients and communities across the Southeast. The transition to the Pinnacle brand in Orlando and Florida will continue through the first quarter of 2027 as the integration is completed.
About Pinnacle Financial Partners
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. (“Pinnacle”) is a $123 billion asset regional bank which provides a full range of banking, investment, trust, mortgage and insurance products and services for commercial and consumer clients who want a comprehensive relationship with their financial institution. The firm joined forces with Synovus Financial Corp. in 2026, bringing together more than 160 years of combined banking service. Pinnacle is the largest bank headquartered in Tennessee and the largest bank holding company headquartered in Georgia. The firm is No. 1 in deposit market share* in the Nashville MSA and No. 4 in the Atlanta MSA with offices in Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Kentucky, Virginia and Maryland.
Pinnacle is an employer of choice for financial services professionals. The firm is No. 12 in the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® in 2026, its 10th consecutive appearance. Pinnacle was also recognized by American Banker as No. 4 among America’s Best Banks to Work For in 2025, its 13th consecutive year on the list, and No. 1 among banks with more than $10 billion in assets. Learn more about Pinnacle at PNFP.com.
Key Takeaways ACM secured eight lots on Scotland Excel's four-year engineering consultancy framework.AECOM will provide transportation, water, environmental, project and commercial management services.ACM's award expands its U.K. framework portfolio alongside recent major infrastructure appointments. AECOM (ACM - Free Report) has secured eight lots on Scotland Excel's Engineering and Technical Consultancy Framework, expanding its role in providing engineering and technical consultancy services to Scotland's local government sector.
The four-year framework offers a collaborative procurement route for 32 Scottish councils and associate members seeking design and construction consultancy expertise. Under the appointment, AECOM will deliver transportation, water, environmental design, project management and commercial management services. The latest award represents a broader role in the second-generation framework and reflects an expansion in the company's service coverage.
AECOM Adds to Growing U.K. Framework PortfolioThe expanded appointment allows AECOM to support local authorities across a wider range of engineering and technical consultancy requirements through its local teams backed by integrated expertise across the United Kingdom. The broader scope of awarded lots positions the company to participate in projects spanning multiple infrastructure and development priorities over the framework's four-year term.
The award also adds to AECOM's growing portfolio of framework appointments in the United Kingdom. Recent selections, including the preferred bidder role for Scottish Water's Enterprise Alliance and expanded positions on the country's AMP8 water framework, indicate continued opportunities for the company to participate in large-scale engineering and consultancy programs across the region.
AECOM's Expanding Pipeline Supports Long-Term VisibilityAECOM continues to build long-term revenue visibility through a combination of record backlog, a growing pipeline and sustained demand across several infrastructure markets. The company is seeing favorable opportunities in transportation, water, energy, defense, data centers and power infrastructure, while strong funding levels and consistent win rates continue to support future project activity.
In the second quarter of fiscal 2026, backlog increased 8% year over year to a record $26.2 billion, supported by a design book-to-burn ratio of 1.2x. The company also continued to build its pipeline across both the Americas and International markets, providing greater visibility into future project activity. Supported by record backlog, a growing pipeline and favorable funding trends, AECOM raised its full-year fiscal 2026 guidance for the second time this year and expects adjusted EPS and adjusted EBITDA to increase 14% and 7%, respectively, at the midpoint of the updated outlook.
ACM’s Price PerformanceAECOM stock has declined 28.1% in the year-to-date period, significantly underperforming the Zacks Engineering - R and D Services industry’s 38.9% growth. The near-term outlook remains challenged by macroeconomic uncertainty, inflationary pressures and temporary disruptions related to the prolonged U.S. federal government shutdown.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
However, ACM’s long-term growth outlook remains compelling, supported by strong demand across its core end markets, including transportation, water, environmental services, energy and advanced facilities.
ACM’s Zacks Rank & Key PicksAECOM currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Here are some better-ranked stocks from the Construction sector:
JACOBS SOLUTNS (J - Free Report) carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. The company delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 4%, on average. J stock has declined 6.6% year to date. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 (Strong Buy) Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for JACOBS fiscal 2026 sales and earnings per share (EPS) indicates growth of 17.6% and 18.1%, respectively, from the prior-year levels.
Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL - Free Report) sports a Zacks Rank of 1 at present. The company delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 32.5%, on average. STRL stock has jumped 170.3% year to date.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Sterling’s 2026 sales and EPS indicates growth of 59.2% and 78.8%, respectively, from the prior-year levels.
Quanta Services, Inc. (PWR - Free Report) flaunts a Zacks Rank of 1 at present. The company delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 10.2%, on average. PWR stock has climbed 69.1% year to date.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Quanta’s 2026 sales and EPS indicates growth of 22.1% and 30.7%, respectively, from the prior-year levels.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - June 30, 2026) - Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE: BMI) 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 Badger Meter securities between April 18, 2024 and April 16, 2026, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/BMI.
Badger Meter Case Details
The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
the Company's reported strong financial results did not reflect "ongoing favorable industry trends," "secular growth drivers," or "solid operating execution," as represented, but were instead unsustainable; Defendants' statements touting "strong" demand, "robust order pacing," and a "strong bid pipeline" overstated the true state of the Company's demand environment and ability to generate continued sales and earnings growth; and contrary to Defendants' claims that the Company possessed a "long runway" for growth, the Company's growth prospects were materially overstated, such that Defendants lacked a reasonable basis for their positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and future prospects.What's Next for Badger Meter 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/BMI, 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 Badger Meter 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 Badger Meter 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 Badger Meter 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/300220
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.
Survey: 88% of enterprises plan to adopt stablecoins within the next year, with cross-border payment costs reduced by an average of 35%.
Payment infrastructure company Cybrid has released a new survey report indicating stablecoins are rapidly gaining traction in enterprise payment scenarios. The survey found that 42% of participating enterprises already use stablecoins for cross-border payments, while 88% said they are likely or very likely to adopt stablecoins within the next 12 months—only 2% of firms stated they will continue to rely entirely on traditional payment systems. According to the report, enterprises using stablecoins save an average of 35% on cross-border payment costs, with firms processing over $100 million in monthly payments achieving an average cost reduction of 47%. Payroll and contractor payments represent the most prominent use case, followed by supplier payments, customer payments, investment and revenue management, and treasury management, among others. Additionally, 71% of respondents identified a clear regulatory framework as the primary factor driving further mainstream adoption of stablecoins, outranking considerations such as infrastructure provider credibility and system integration. The survey was conducted from April to May this year, covering 468 senior executives from tech, financial services, and e-commerce sectors in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
53 minutes ago
FalconX secures EU MiCA license, allowing it to offer compliant crypto services to institutional clients in Europe.
Institutional digital asset broker FalconX announced it has obtained the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license issued by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), enabling it to provide compliant digital asset trading, custody, liquidity and related institutional services across the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). FalconX stated that this license allows it to operate across EU member states under a unified regulatory framework, eliminating the need for individual country-specific licenses. Currently, the firm serves over 2,000 institutional clients worldwide, including asset management firms, hedge funds, banks and family offices, with cumulative transaction volumes exceeding $2.5 trillion and over $8 billion in institutional financing disbursed. FalconX noted that as the MiCA regulatory framework is fully implemented, institutional clients’ demand for compliant trading, custody and liquidity services continues to grow, and regulatory credentials are becoming a key competitive advantage in Europe’s digital asset market.
53 minutes ago
Guo Wengui sentenced to 30 years in prison in connection with a fraud case involving over $1 billion.
A US court has sentenced Miles Guo (also known as Ho Wan Kwok) to 30 years in prison. In 2024, a jury convicted Guo on multiple charges including racketeering, fraud, and money laundering, with his formal sentencing now issued. Prosecutors stated that Guo defrauded over $1 billion from global victims through a series of related scam schemes spanning five years. Notably, in 2021, he promoted the cryptocurrency project Himalaya Coin (H-Coin), claiming the tokens were backed by 20% gold reserves and promising to cover all investors’ losses, raising approximately $500 million in total. Additionally, the court previously ordered the forfeiture of nearly $900 million in Guo’s illegal proceeds, as well as his luxury mansion in New Jersey and multiple high-end vehicles. Guo had close ties to Steve Bannon, a former senior advisor to US President Donald Trump; Bannon was arrested in 2020 aboard Guo’s yacht.
53 minutes ago
The first-half 2026 funding rankings have been released, with Kalshi and Polymarket raising a combined $1.8 billion.
According to statistics, the 14 largest global funding rounds in the first half of 2026 raised a total of $4.3 billion, with prediction markets, AI, and payment sectors drawing the most investor interest. Specifically, prediction market platform Kalshi topped the list with a $1.2 billion funding round, while Polymarket secured $600 million—together, the two raised $1.8 billion, accounting for over 40% of the total capital of the top 14 rounds. In the AI space, Replit, Exa AI, and OpenRouter closed funding rounds of $400 million, $250 million, and $113 million respectively. For blockchain projects, Canton Network, Arc, and Morpho raised $355 million, $222 million, and $175 million respectively. Meanwhile, payment, RWA, infrastructure, and compliance projects including Rain, Slash, Goldcom, Alpaca, and Elliptic also featured on the list.
53 minutes ago
Open Standard launches stablecoin Open USD, with over 140 institutions including Visa, BlackRock, and Coinbase participating.
Open Standard has announced the launch of Open USD (OUSD), a new stablecoin for global fund flows, noting that over 140 enterprises have joined its ecosystem, including financial, payment, and crypto industry players such as Visa, Stripe, Mastercard, American Express, BlackRock, BNY, DBS, Coinbase, OKX, MetaMask, Aave, Ripple, Fireblocks, Solana, and Polygon. According to the introduction, Open USD follows three core design principles: supporting zero-cost, large-scale minting and redemption for enterprises; returning all reserve asset yields to partners after deducting a small management fee; and being governed by a board of directors composed of independent firm Open Standard and its partners, rather than controlled by a single issuer. Open Standard states that Open USD will officially launch later this year, with the goal of building an open, low-cost, high-throughput stablecoin infrastructure with a sharing economy mechanism to meet the needs of the internet economy and global enterprise-level payments.
53 minutes ago
Pump.fun is discontinuing support for its tokenized agent issuance feature, stating it will focus on optimizing retail user trading experience.
Pump.fun announced it will immediately cease support for its Tokenized Agent token issuance feature. The feature will no longer be available for new token launches, though projects that have already activated it will remain unaffected. The platform noted that over recent months, consistent community feedback has pointed out that excessive issuance options have sparked unnecessary user vs. user (PVP) competition. Moving forward, Pump.fun will prioritize issuance models and product features that explicitly enhance retail trading experiences.
Twilio (TWLO +2.32%) has enjoyed a strong start to the year but now finds itself in a 20% correction. Many companies use Twilio's platform to communicate with customers via text, video, artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, and other capabilities. It's natural for stocks to take breathers after long runs, but a high P/E ratio offers some reason for concern.
Image source: Getty Images.
Twilio is a good company but a bad stock Twilio has good fundamentals, but it's hard to justify a stock with a P/E ratio hovering near 300. The company delivered 20% year-over-year revenue growth in the first quarter. Those sales come from a solid foundation, which includes more than 400,000 customers and 68% of Fortune 500 companies.
Today's Change
(
2.32
%) $
4.62
Current Price
$
203.39
However, growth investors aren't concerned only with the current foundation. They want revenue acceleration and enticing long-term growth prospects. If those are good, investors can more easily justify a stock that is trading near a 300 P/E ratio, but that isn't the case for Twilio.
The company anticipates only 15.5% to 16.5% year-over-year revenue growth in Q2 and 14% to 15% year-over-year revenue growth in full-year 2026. These aren't exciting numbers, especially when investors can choose from AI stocks that are delivering substantial growth rates well above the 14% to 15% growth rate Twilio expects to deliver throughout the year.
The agentic AI angle is worth monitoring Not everyone feels bearish about Twilio. Goldman Sachs gave it a $300 price target and cited Twilio's positioning in agentic AI infrastructure.
Twilio's list of top customer wins from its Q1 presentation includes several cases of agentic AI translating into more customer engagement, which bodes well for the bullish narrative. Twilio has formed the backbone for some customers' voice AI infrastructure, customer service chatbots, and AI agents for sales. Twilio CEO Khozema Shipchandler even touted the company as a "foundational infrastructure layer in the era of AI," demonstrating that it wants to capitalize on the opportunity.
However, the impact of agentic AI did not show up in guidance, which is a red flag. Leaders in the AI chip and memory cycle have regularly pounded the table with compelling guidance that shows growth rates much higher than Wall Street expected.
This isn't the first time investors got caught up in Twilio, thinking it could be a superstar stock. The company soared from $80 per share to over $400 per share in less than a year during the pandemic. Then the bubble burst, and Twilio is still down by roughly 60% from all-time highs.
Twilio's full-year guidance suggests that investors are overestimating the opportunity and may get burned again by the stock, especially if a short-term rally takes shape. If Twilio projected accelerated revenue growth rates for Q2 and beyond or had a more reasonable valuation, it would be easier to buy shares. However, neither of those is the case.
Investors interested in Building Products - Miscellaneous stocks are likely familiar with Jacobs Solutions (J) and Masco (MAS). But which of these two companies is the best option for those looking for undervalued stocks?
Investors looking for stocks in the Waste Removal Services sector might want to consider either Pentair plc (PNR) or Zurn Water (ZWS). But which of these two stocks presents investors with the better value opportunity right now?
Investors looking for stocks in the Computers - IT Services sector might want to consider either Roper Technologies (ROP) or Jack Henry (JKHY). But which of these two companies is the best option for those looking for undervalued stocks?
