Bank of America vkládá do Jio Credit Limited asi 1,9 miliardy USD za podíl až 49,9 %. Tím posílí svou přítomnost v Indii a získá přístup k digitální úvěrové platformě.
Key Takeaways BAC will invest $1.9 billion for up to a 49.9% stake in Jio Credit, expanding its footprint in India.BAC will gain equal board representation, combining its know-how with Jio Credit's digital lending platform.BAC gains exposure to Jio Credit's lending platform through its strategic investment in India. Bank of America Corporation (BAC - Free Report) is strengthening its presence in India by investing approximately $1.9 billion for up to a 49.9% stake in Jio Credit Limited (JCL), the lending subsidiary of Jio Financial Services (JFSL). The investment will provide BAC with exposure to India’s rapidly growing credit market while leveraging Jio Financial Services’ digital reach, customer base and local expertise.
The transaction will enable BAC to combine its global financial-services expertise, technology, governance and risk-management capabilities with Jio Credit’s digital-first lending platform. The partnership is expected to create long-term growth opportunities for BAC as Jio Credit expands its lending operations across India.
BAC’s strong digital capabilities, with 86% of relationship clients digitally active in the second quarter of 2026, could complement Jio Credit’s digital reach and local market expertise. With Jio Credit’s AUM reaching $3.2 billion (~INR30,667 crore) as of June 30, 2026, up 2.6x year over year, BAC will gain exposure to a rapidly scaling lending business while supporting its expansion into existing and new lending products. The partnership will also provide BAC with equal representation on Jio Credit’s board, giving it a direct role in the subsidiary’s strategic direction and governance.
Digitally Active Client Relationship
Image Source: Bank of America Corporation
The Jio Credit partnership aligns with Bank of America’s strategy of expanding its global franchise in high-growth markets. The company will be able to leverage an established local platform rather than building a comparable lending network organically. The combination of Jio’s local expertise and digital distribution with BAC’s technology, risk-management and governance capabilities is likely to provide the company with greater participation in India’s expanding consumer-credit market.
The transaction is unlikely to materially impact BAC’s near-term financial results. The investment’s long-term success will depend on Jio Credit’s ability to scale its loan book profitably, manage credit risks, and effectively deploy the additional capital.
Over the past year, shares of BAC have gained 34.6%, outperforming the industry’s 27.4% increase.
One-Year Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
At present, BAC carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 (Strong Buy) Rank stocks here.
Acquisition by Other Financial FirmsLast week, StoneX Group Inc. (SNEX - Free Report) agreed to acquire Banco Travelex S.A., Brazil’s first bank dedicated exclusively to FX operations. The deal is expected to strengthen SNEX’s payments and FX capabilities, expand its presence in Brazil, and support cross-selling across nearly 20,000 clients and approximately $6 billion in annual volume.
The acquisition will broaden StoneX’s local banking and payment capabilities while complementing its existing FX and international payments businesses. The deal comes as Payments operating revenues rose 7% year over year to $173.3 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2026, although an 8% decline in RPM indicates continued pressure on revenue capture.
Earlier this month, KeyCorp (KEY - Free Report) completed the acquisition of Clearwater Corporate Finance LLP (Clearwater UK), a U.K.-based middle-market investment banking advisory firm. The transaction expands KEY’s advisory business into Western Europe and strengthens its middle-market M&A capabilities.
The acquisition supports KeyCorp’s strategy of expanding its investment banking franchise and growing fee-based businesses. Management expects 2026 investment banking fees to grow at a mid-single-digit rate, with third-quarter fees projected to increase more than 20% sequentially, supported by improving deal activity and the Clearwater UK acquisition.
Disney plánuje během deseti let investovat 60 miliard USD do parků a zaměřuje se na fanoušky. Současně vrací do atrakcí oblíbené prvky, jako je yeti z Expedition Everest, Figment a Tomorrowland.
It's not everyday that a live crowd goes wild for an animatronic yeti.
But the audience at Disney's D23 Expo isn't just any old crowd, and its superfans are central to Disney's strategic parks investments — some $60 billion planned over a decade.
"We are bringing the yeti back to life," Thomas Mazloum, chairman of Disney Experiences, announced to 12,000 Disney parks fans Saturday night during the division's D23 showcase in Anaheim, California.
The repair he was referencing is within the Expedition Everest attraction at Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom theme park. Since 2006, the ride's yeti has been stationary. At the time the figure was unveiled it was the largest and most complex audio-animatronic that Walt Disney Imagineering had ever built. But after only a few months, it broke.
Its location within the finished ride made it difficult to fix, so Imagineers placed the machine in "B-mode," in which a strobe-light effect was used to give the illusion of movement. The broken animatronic has since become affectionately known as "Disco Yeti." Now, it's getting a second life.
Mazloum, who became parks chief after Josh D'Amaro was appointed as Disney CEO, announced the yeti repair — as well as the return of fan-favorite characters Dreamfinder and Figment to EPCOT in Florida and an overhaul of Tomorrowland in California — to some of Disney's most ardent fans on Saturday.
It's a signal of where the company plans to put its focus for the blockbuster Disney Experiences unit, made up of theme parks, cruise lines and consumer goods sales. As Disney expands its reach, it will need to lean on its most loyal attendees and biggest spenders to counter macroeconomic uncertainties and challenging travel trends.
"It may not sound like a big thing, but something like the Yeti or Figment or really being serious about Tomorrowland, they mean a lot to people because they grew up with these stories," Mazloum told CNBC.
"They're small, they're immediate, but they're meaningful," he added.
A balancing actFor Mazloum, the focus of his tenure as head of Disney's experiences division will be about balancing the company's massive expansion plans — new lands and area overhauls based on popular intellectual property — meant to attract the less frequent out-of-state and international visitors with more targeted updates and upgrades that annual passholders and more regular attendees want to see.
"Our job is to listen carefully and then find the way to harmonize the different needs and wants," he said.
"The simplest way to frame it is: I'm really focused on making sure we put our fans and the consumer and the guests into the center of our decision-making," he added.
Mazloum said these efforts are already paying off, touting the company's recent fiscal third-quarter earnings report in which the experiences division posted nearly $10 billion in revenue, a 10% jump from the same quarter a year prior and a quarterly record.
"I believe the results are at the end of doing something right at the beginning, and that is really putting the fans in the center of our attention," he said. "That's why, despite some, you know, other companies reporting different results, we're doing extremely well in Florida. We're doing very well here in California, because we've listened carefully and we've really responded to the right consumer at the right time."
Last month, rival Comcast reported lags in theme park attendance, particularly in Orlando, Florida. And yet, at Disney, domestic park attendance was up 3% and guest spending rose 4%.
The company attributed strong attendance to its Cool Kids Summer promotion, which features kid-focused character meet-and-greets, dance parties and air-conditioned hangout spots as well as free water park admission for hotel guests.
Disney also recently refreshed and reimagined park attractions like Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and the Muppets-themed Rock 'n' Roller Coaster.
Driving attendance with IPNext up is the refurbishment of the Carousel of Progress, which is expected to be completed in late spring 2027, and the opening of the Monsters, Inc.-themed Monstropolis land, also set for 2027.
In the meantime, Disney continues working on its Avengers Campus expansion, its new Villains Land, the retheming of Frontierland featuring the Cars franchise as well as the new Tropical Americas land, among other long-term projects.
Disney's portfolio of IP has been the bedrock of its theme parks since the very first location opened its doors, and that library of content has only grown in recent decades. The company has a vast well of stories and characters to tap into in order to entice parkgoers.
While these new lands and rethemed attractions are designed for all future Disney parkgoers, these additions predominantly act as a beacon to those that don't travel as often to the company's resorts and parks. They offer a fresh reason for out-of-state and international guests to book a trip.
"The percentage of people that go to Shanghai Disneyland just to go to Zootopia Land is very, very high," then-CEO Bob Iger said during the company's fiscal first-quarter earnings report in February.
Rewarding loyal parkgoersEqually important are the guests that frequent Disney's parks more often. These attendees have some of the strongest emotional attachment to the parks and more purchasing opportunities when it comes to merchandise and concessions.
These parkgoers enjoy the new marquee expansions, but it's not the only driver for their visits to the parks. Those who visit annually or several times during the year are deeply passionate about the live shows, character meet-and-greets, holiday food specials, seasonal festivals and parades and nighttime spectaculars that these parks provide.
On Saturday, Disney revealed the return of two fan-favorite nighttime spectaculars — Remember Dreams Come True, a fireworks show at Disneyland, and the original World of Color at California Adventure. The Magic Happens parade will also be making a comeback at Disneyland.
"This new set of announcements demonstrates that Disney is listening to what fans want," said Gavin Doyle, founder of MickeyVisit.com. "The reaction in the room was cheering and thunderous applause. People feel like Disney hears what they have been asking for."
Cigaretový byznys Altria ve 2. čtvrtletí klesl méně než trh: upravený objem spadl o 4,5 % proti odhadu 5 % v odvětví. Díky cenám vzrostl upravený provozní zisk o 2,4 % na 3,018 miliardy USD.
Key Takeaways Altria's adjusted cigarette volume fell 4.5% in Q2, compared with an estimated 5% decline for the industry.Basic gained retail share while Marlboro held 59.6% of the premium segment and edged up sequentially.Smokeable price realization reached 4.5%, helping lift adjusted operating companies income 2.4%. Altria Group, Inc.’s MO cigarette business is showing resilience despite continued pressure on U.S. smokers. In the second quarter of 2026, reported domestic cigarette shipment volume fell 3.2%. After adjusting for trade inventory movements, the decline was an estimated 4.5%, compared with an estimated 5% drop for the overall domestic cigarette industry. For the first half, Altria’s adjusted decline was about 4% compared with 5% for the industry.
The moderation was primarily tied to reduced cross-category movement between cigarettes and illicit-flavored disposable e-vapor products, even as inflation, elevated gas prices and other pressures continued to influence cigarette purchasing. The industry’s discount retail share rose 2.6 percentage points year over year in the second quarter. Against that backdrop, Basic’s retail share increased 2.3 points year over year and 0.3 points sequentially. Marlboro, meanwhile, held a 59.6% share of the premium segment, unchanged from a year earlier and up 0.1 point sequentially.
Pricing also helped offset volume pressure. Smokeable price realization was 4.5% in the quarter, supported by strong Marlboro pricing, while Marlboro’s retail price was about 7% higher year over year. Smokeable-products net revenues increased 0.7%, while revenues net of excise taxes rose 2%. Adjusted operating companies income advanced 2.4% to $3,018 million, with margin expanding 30 basis points to 64.8%, helped by higher pricing and higher refunds of taxes and duties on imported cigarettes. The combination of relatively better volume performance, stable premium-segment share and strong pricing helped Altria’s cigarette business limit the impact of continued industry-wide volume pressure.
Altria’s Cigarette Resilience Stands Out Against PeersPhilip Morris International Inc. (PM - Free Report) also showed resilience in its cigarette business, with international combustible cigarette volume increasing 1.1% in the second quarter of 2026. While Marlboro gained 0.3 percentage points to a record 11% share, Philip Morris’s cigarette category volume share remained stable at 25.3%. Philip Morris also delivered 10% pricing in international combustibles, supporting 9.8% net revenue growth.
Turning Point Brands, Inc. (TPB - Free Report) also showed strength in nicotine products as cigarette consumption shifts. In the second quarter of 2026, Turning Point Brands’ Modern Oral net sales jumped 128% year over year to $68.4 million, while gross sales rose 149%. Turning Point Brands’ Modern Oral business accounted for 48% of total revenues, up from 26% a year earlier, reflecting strong growth in nicotine pouches.
Altria’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Altria have fallen 10.9% in the past three months compared with the industry’s decline of 3.1%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, MO trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 11.37X, down from the industry’s average of 15.31X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for MO’s 2026 and 2027 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 4.6% and 3%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Altria 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 DAL will launch daily Austin-Paris service on March 27, 2027, using Airbus A330-900neo aircraft. DAL will offer up to 10 weekly Austin-Europe flights in peak summer, including Paris & Amsterdam. DAL expects about 30 Austin destinations and more than 70 peak-day departures by summer 2027. Delta Air Lines (DAL - Free Report) is strengthening its presence in Austin by launching its first-ever nonstop service between Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (“AUS”) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (“CDG”), starting March 27, 2027. The daily summer-season service will be operated on Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, giving Austin travelers direct access to Paris and one-stop connectivity to nearly 70 destinations across Europe, India and Africa through Delta’s joint venture with Air France-KLM.
The new Paris route is a positive development for Delta as it expands its international network from Austin and taps into growing travel demand in the region. The airline will offer up to 10 weekly nonstop flights between Austin and Europe during the peak summer period, including service to Paris and Amsterdam. This expanded connectivity will support passenger growth while strengthening Delta’s competitive position in the fast-growing Central Texas market.
Delta is also expanding its domestic and leisure network from Austin. The airline will launch daily nonstop service to San Diego in April 2027, extend Austin-Cancun service year-round and add a second daily Austin-San Jose flight. By summer 2027, Delta expects to serve about 30 destinations from Austin with more than 70 peak-day departures, indicating a significant increase in capacity and network reach.
Overall, the Austin expansion is likely to support Delta’s passenger revenues and network growth by adding new international connectivity while increasing domestic and leisure options. The airline’s continued investment in employees, airport facilities and future gate capacity further positions Austin as an important growth market, although the benefits will depend on sustained demand and the successful ramp-up of the new routes.
DAL’s Share Price PerformanceDAL’s shares have gained 46.3% over the past year compared with the Transportation - Airline industry’s 8.7% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
DAL’s Zacks RankDAL currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Stocks to ConsiderInvestors interested in the Zacks Transportation sector may consider Expeditors International of Washington, Inc. (EXPD - Free Report) and LATAM Airlines Group (LTM - Free Report) .
Expeditors currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
EXPD has an expected earnings growth rate of 28.6% for 2026. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 17.15%.
LATAM Airlines Group currently sports a Zacks Rank #1.
LTM has an expected earnings growth rate of 10.3% for the current year. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 97.9%.
GM po výsledcích za 2. čtvrtletí vzrostl o 14,4 %, zatímco Ford klesl o 3,0 %. Přesto článek favorizuje Ford díky Ford Pro, hybridům, levnějším EV a silné hotovostní pozici 43,4 miliardy USD.
Key Takeaways Ford is the preferred pick as Ford Pro, hybrids, affordable EVs and energy storage offer upside.General Motors has gained 14.4% since Q2 results, while Ford has fallen 3% despite stronger earnings.Ford offers more than 4% dividend yield, $43.4B liquidity and a raised 2026 FCF outlook of $6-$7B. U.S. legacy automakers Ford (F - Free Report) and General Motors (GM - Free Report) have moved in different directions since their second-quarter earnings reports. GM has gained 14.4% since reporting on July 21, while Ford is down 3% since its July 28 results. That divergence is notable because both automakers delivered stronger earnings and raised their full-year outlooks.
So, the question is not which company had the better quarter, but which one offers the more compelling opportunity from here. Both are navigating tariffs, uneven EV demand and high interest rates while trying to build businesses that extend beyond selling cars. Here's a closer look at the case for each.
The Case for General MotorsGM's biggest strength remains its North American truck and SUV business. Rather than using heavy discounts to drive sales, the company has maintained pricing discipline, keeping incentives below the industry average for more than three years. That approach is paying off. GM North America's adjusted EBIT margin recovered to 8.6% in the second quarter and 9.3% in the first half, putting the business back within management's 8%-10% target range.
Next-generation Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra models, higher full-size SUV capacity and greater U.S. production could support both revenues and margins in 2027. Management has already raised 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $12-$14 and expects 2027 results to exceed 2026.
General Motors has also built a stronger business in China, helped by restructuring and cost reductions. That helped China equity income more than double to $248 million in the first half from $116 million a year earlier. The company expects the business to remain profitable as it refreshes its lineup and streamlines operations.
GM is also building new revenue streams around its vehicles. OnStar and Super Cruise are expanding, with more than $3 billion of recognized and deferred revenues expected in 2026. It plans to add about 1 million subscribers and exceed 850,000 Super Cruise subscribers by year-end. GM Energy, GM Defense and GM Insurance provide additional avenues for growth. Meanwhile, strong cash generation has allowed GM to repurchase $2.8 billion of stock so far this year, with $3.5 billion remaining under the authorization.
The Case for FordFord’s truck and utility portfolio remains a major strength, while hybrids provide a useful middle ground as consumers remain divided between gas-powered and fully electric vehicles. The Maverick Hybrid posted record first-half sales, and the F-150 Hybrid led its full-size truck category.
Ford is also taking another shot at the mass-market EV opportunity with its upcoming Fathom electric pickup. Starting below $30,000 before destination and delivery charges, the vehicle could help Ford reach customers who have been priced out of many EVs. The company is working to make EV production more economical. Its new "assembly tree" manufacturing process is designed to simplify production and lower costs, potentially helping address the margin pressure seen with the F-150 Lightning.
Ford Pro is the company’s main earnings engine, supported by commercial vehicle leadership and recurring software and physical services. It generated $1.7 billion of EBIT at a 9.7% margin in the latest quarter, despite volume constraints, while paid Ford Pro Intelligence subscriptions surpassed 900,000. Management now expects 2026 Ford Pro EBIT of $7-$7.5 billion.
Ford Energy adds a new revenue stream by applying Ford’s battery manufacturing, service and monitoring capabilities to energy storage.Ford expects to reach 20 gigawatt-hours of annual capacity by late 2027. Financially, Ford ended the June quarter with $43.4 billion of liquidity, generated $2.1 billion of adjusted free cash flow and raised its 2026 FCF outlook to $6-$7 billion. Its attractive dividend yield of more than 4% adds to the stock’s appeal.
What Do Estimates for GM & F Say?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Ford’s 2026 and 2027 EPS implies year-over-year growth of 70% and 4%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The consensus mark for GM's 2026 and 2027 EPS calls for a year-over-year uptick of 25% and 11%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Valuation Check: GM & FGM shares currently trade at 0.4X forward earnings, above its five-year average of 0.32X. Ford’s forward-to-sales ratio of 0.32 is lower than that of GM.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Our TakeBoth Ford and GM look strong enough for investors seeking exposure to the auto industry, and both currently carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). But, if we have to pick one, Ford looks better at current levels. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
GM has received a stronger vote from investors since its latest results, leaving more room for Ford to benefit from a reassessment. Its Ford Pro business provides a solid earnings foundation, while affordable EVs, hybrids and energy storage offer multiple avenues for upside. Ford also offers the more attractive combination of income and valuation support. That makes it the more compelling choice between the two.
PepsiCo oživuje Lay’s, Tostitos a Gatorade novými vizuály a jasnějším sdělením, aby oslovila cenově citlivé spotřebitele. V Severní Americe jí ve druhém čtvrtletí roku 2026 organické tržby klesly o 0,5 % a organický objem nápojů o 4 %.
Key Takeaways PepsiCo is refreshing Lay's, Tostitos and Gatorade with new visuals and clearer messaging.PepsiCo is expanding protein, fiber, hydration, zero-sugar and alternative-oil offerings.PepsiCo saw North America organic revenues fall 0.5% in Q2, while beverage organic volume dropped 4%. PepsiCo Inc. (PEP - Free Report) is stepping up efforts to refresh its portfolio as changing consumer preferences and tighter household budgets reshape demand, particularly in North America. The company’s strategy combines brand restaging, product innovation, affordability initiatives and sharper marketing to reconnect with consumers.
A major element is modernizing established brands. PepsiCo is restaging Lay’s and Tostitos with new visuals and messaging centered on simple, quality ingredients, while a Quaker refresh is planned. Gatorade is also receiving simplified packaging and clearer communication around hydration benefits, alongside the gradual removal of artificial colors. Lay’s, meanwhile, is being repositioned across international markets with new visuals and an emphasis on no artificial flavors or colors.
The refresh extends beyond packaging. PepsiCo is expanding products aligned with protein, fiber, hydration, diverse ingredients and zero sugar. In foods, innovations include Doritos Protein, SunChips Fiber and products made with alternative oils. These moves appear to be gaining traction: PepsiCo Foods North America improved volume share and household penetration, while permissible offerings, such as Baked, Simply, SunChips, Siete and Quaker Rice Cakes, posted strong volume and revenue growth.
Still, winning consumers back may take time. North America organic revenues declined 0.5% in the second quarter of 2026 as category performance moderated, while beverage organic volume fell 4%. With consumer budgets under pressure, PepsiCo’s refresh looks directionally promising, but its success will depend on whether stronger brands, innovation and affordability can translate into sustained North American volume growth.
How Peer Brand Strategies at Keurig Dr Pepper & Coca-Cola Are EvolvingKeurig Dr Pepper Inc. (KDP - Free Report) and The Coca-Cola Company (KO - Free Report) are evolving their brand strategies by sharpening portfolio priorities, expanding into high-growth beverage categories and leveraging innovation to keep pace with shifting consumer preferences.
Keurig Dr Pepper is sharpening its brand playbook as consumers grow increasingly value-conscious. C4’s packaging refresh, featuring clearer benefit communication and bolder flavor cues, is already driving double-digit sales lift in select markets. Meanwhile, Keurig’s “Great Coffee Without the Grind” campaign helped brewer shipments return to growth. Yet, with U.S. Coffee volumes pressured by category softness and private-label shifts, sustained marketing, innovation and value investments remain critical to winning consumers back.
PepsiCo is refreshing key brands to reconnect with value-conscious consumers amid softer North American demand. Lay’s and Tostitos are getting new visuals and simpler-ingredient messaging, while Gatorade is being restaged with simplified packaging and sharper hydration claims. PepsiCo is pairing these moves with affordability initiatives and higher marketing investment. Early household-penetration gains in foods are encouraging, though subdued beverage volumes suggest a consumer comeback may remain gradual.
PEP’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of PepsiCo have lost 5.6% in the past three months against the industry’s rise of 3.4%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, PEP trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 15.93X, below the industry’s average of 19.66X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PEP’s 2026 and 2027 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 5.4% and 5.3%, respectively. The company’s EPS estimates for 2026 and 2027 have moved southward in the past 30 days.
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) shares are trading higher on Monday as the company has made a new discovery in its exploration program in Sub-Saharan Africa, signaling potential growth in its operations.
This positive news comes during a mixed market day, with the Energy sector gaining 0.56%, making it one of the top-performing sectors, while the broader S&P 500 is slightly down by 0.1%.
Discovery in Angola Drives Shares HigherChevron, through its subsidiary Cabinda Gulf Oil Company Ltd., confirmed an oil and gas condensate discovery at the 105-4X exploration well in Block 0 offshore Angola.
Block 0 is operated by CABGOC, which holds a 39.2% working interest, alongside Sonangol E&P (41%), TotalEnergies (10%) and Azule Energy (9.8%). The discovery strengthens Chevron’s Sub-Saharan Africa portfolio, where it produces about 300,000 boe/d net and continues expanding its resource base.
Drilled in the Lower Congo Basin, the well encountered a hydrocarbon column exceeding 600 meters (2,000 feet) in the Pinda reservoir, including more than 90 meters (300 feet) of net pay in high-quality reservoir rock.
Chevron will evaluate the discovery for potential development as a tie-back to nearby existing facilities, offering a capital-efficient route to production.
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CVX Technical Outlook: Momentum and Key Support LevelsThe stock is currently trading at $201.69, which is about 4.3% above its 20-day simple moving average (SMA) of $193.26. The moving average convergence divergence (MACD) is above its signal line, indicating that downside pressure is easing, suggesting improving momentum for the stock.
Key Resistance: $214.50 — Nearby level where rebounds can stall. Key Support: $186.00 — Nearby level where buyers previously stepped in. Chevron (CVX) Earnings Preview and Analyst Price TargetsChevron is slated to provide its next financial update on Oct. 30 (estimated).
EPS Estimate: $4.47 (Up from $1.85) Revenue Estimate: $56.23 billion (Up from $49.73 billion) Valuation: P/E of 19.2x (Indicates fair valuation) Analyst Consensus & Recent Actions: The stock carries a Buy rating with an average price forecast of $211.71. Recent analyst moves include:
Barclays: Equal-Weight (Lowers target to $208 on Aug. 17) TD Cowen: Hold (Raises target to $205 on Aug. 5) Bernstein: Market Perform (Raises Target to $209 on Aug. 3) How Chevron (CVX) Ranks On Value, Growth and MomentumBelow is the Benzinga Edge scorecard for Chevron, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses compared to the broader market:
Value: 81.18 — Stock is considered a strong value relative to peers. Growth: 67.85 — Indicates moderate growth potential. Momentum: 64.1 — Suggests a neutral momentum profile. The Verdict: Chevron’s Benzinga Edge signal reveals a balanced profile, with strong value metrics and moderate growth potential. This suggests that while the stock is well-positioned in terms of valuation, it may face challenges in accelerating growth momentum.
Top ETFs Holding Chevron (CVX) and Why It Matters iShares Core High Dividend ETF (NYSE:HDV): 5.93% Weight First Trust Morningstar Dividend Leaders Index Fund (NYSE:FDL): 7.90% Weight State Street SPDR S&P North American Natural Resources ETF (NYSE:NANR): 6.53% Weight Significance: Because Cheveron carries such a heavy weight in these funds, any significant inflows or outflows for these ETFs will likely force automatic buying or selling of the stock.
CVX Stock Price Today: Chevron Shares In FocusCVX Stock Price Activity: Chevron shares were up 1.39% at $202.79 at the time of publication on Monday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
Wells Fargo očekává v roce 2026 čistý úrokový výnos kolem 50 miliard USD, po 47,5 miliardy USD v roce 2025. V 1. pololetí 2026 vzrostl meziročně o 5,2 % na 24,4 miliardy USD.
Key Takeaways WFC targets approximately $50B in 2026 NII, up from $47.5B in 2025.Wells Fargo's NII rose 5.2% y/y to $24.4B in the first half of 2026, led by balance-sheet growth.CBL generated $15.3B in NII in the first half of 2026, accounting for 62.6% of WFC's total NII. Wells Fargo & Company (WFC - Free Report) expects its net interest income (NII) to reach approximately $50 billion in 2026, up from $47.5 billion in 2025. The outlook reflects continued balance-sheet expansion following the removal of the asset cap, along with a favorable loan and deposit mix and fixed-asset repricing.
Over the past three years (ended 2025), the company’s NII expanded at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.8%. The growth trend improved in the first half of 2026, with NII rising 5.2% year over year to $24.4 billion. Management expects stronger NII growth in the second half of 2026, supported by continued balance-sheet expansion and improving loan and deposit trends.
Consumer Banking and Lending (CBL) remains a key contributor to NII growth. The segment generated $15.3 billion of NII in the first half of 2026, accounting for 62.6% of Wells Fargo’s total NII. Growth in consumer lending, particularly auto and credit cards, is supporting earning-asset growth and driving the bank’s NII momentum.
The removal of WFC’s asset cap in June 2025 has further strengthened its ability to expand the balance sheet. With the restriction lifted and the final outstanding consent order closed in early 2026, the bank can pursue loan and deposit growth more aggressively. Management expects average loans to increase at a mid-single-digit rate in 2026, primarily driven by commercial, auto and credit card lending, while average deposits are projected to grow at a mid-single-digit rate across all operating segments. This balance-sheet expansion is expected to support NII by increasing earning assets and strengthening the funding base.
Overall, a stable interest-rate environment, combined with a favorable balance-sheet mix and fixed-asset repricing, is expected to support WFC’s NII growth through the remainder of 2026. With management expecting stronger growth in the second half, the bank remains on track to reach its approximately $50 billion NII target for 2026.
What Do WFC’s Peers Say About Their 2026 NII Expectations?The two peers of Wells Fargo are Citigroup Inc. (C - Free Report) and The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (PNC - Free Report) .
Citigroup’s NII increased at a three-year CAGR of 6.2% through 2025, with the uptrend continuing in the first half of 2026. The company continues to witness solid growth in loan and deposit balances. Management expects NII, excluding Markets, to increase 5-6% in 2026, supported by loan growth and stabilizing funding dynamics.
PNC’s NII has been a key contributor to top-line growth, increasing at a six-year CAGR of 6.3% through 2025. The uptrend continued in the first half of 2026, supported by commercial loan growth and a favorable deposit mix. Following strong second-quarter results, management raised its 2026 NII growth guidance to 15-15.5% from 14.5%, supported by robust loan growth, an improving deposit mix and continued repricing of fixed-rate assets.
WFC’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Wells Fargo have gained 14.7% in the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 27.4%.
Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, WFC trades at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 11.56X, below the industry’s average of 14.24X.
Price-to-Earnings F12M
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WFC’s 2026 and 2027 earnings implies year-over-year rallies of 15.5% and 9.5%, respectively. Estimates for both years have been revised upward over the past month.
Estimate Revision Trend
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
WFC currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Enbridge má backlog C$41 miliard a další příležitosti za asi C$50 miliard, které mají podpořit zhruba 5% průměrný roční růst po roce 2026. Akcie se ale obchodují za 23,1násobek forwardového zisku, nad svým pětiletým mediánem.
Key Takeaways Enbridge's C$41B backlog and C$50B opportunity set support about 5% annual post-2026 growth.ENB trades at 23.1X forward earnings, above its sub-industry, S&P 500 and five-year median.Enbridge's 5.1X debt-to-EBITDA and higher U.S. rates leave less room for project delays. Enbridge Inc. (ENB - Free Report) pairs long-term contracted infrastructure cash flows with a C$41 billion secured backlog and a 5.4% dividend yield. Management also sees about C$50 billion of organic opportunities through 2030, supporting a visible growth runway.
The trade-off is valuation. ENB trades above its sub-industry, the S&P 500 and its own five-year median on forward earnings, while leverage sits near the top of management's target range and higher U.S. interest rates remain a headwind. That puts execution, project timing and cash-flow conversion at the center of the hold-or-wait decision.
Enbridge’s Backlog Supports a 5% Growth PathEnbridge’s secured capital backlog totals C$41 billion, with projects scheduled through 2033. Management also identifies about C$50 billion of organic opportunities through 2030 and has sanctioned approximately C$9 billion of capital in 2026.
That pipeline underpins post-2026 expectations for about 5% average annual growth in adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), earnings per share and distributable cash flow per share. The growth case is visible, but realizing it depends on converting a large opportunity set into timely in-service assets.
Image Source: Enbridge
ENB’s Valuation Demands Consistent DeliveryAt 23.1X forward 12-month earnings, ENB trades above the Zacks sub-industry’s 20.5X multiple, the S&P 500’s 20.8X and its five-year median of 17.9X. The premium leaves less room for delays, weaker earnings or prolonged financing pressure.
Investors comparing pipeline exposure may also look at Kinder Morgan, Inc. (KMI - Free Report) , a large North American energy-infrastructure operator with extensive pipeline and storage assets. The Williams Companies, Inc. (WMB - Free Report) offers a more natural-gas-focused alternative spanning transmission, gathering, processing and storage.
Enbridge’s Cash Flow Supports Shareholder ReturnsSecond-quarter distributable cash flow rose 1.6% to C$2.95 billion, while distributable cash flow per share increased to C$1.35 from C$1.33. Lower maintenance capital helped offset higher interest expense.
Enbridge continues to fund the equity portion of its growth program internally. It returned C$4.2 billion through common-share dividends in the first half of 2026, supporting shareholder returns while the capital program advances.
ENB’s Balance Sheet Narrows the Margin for ErrorDebt-to-EBITDA was 5.1 times at the end of the second quarter, including about 0.1 times from foreign exchange. Adjusting for that effect, leverage was within management's 4.5-5.0 times target range.
Management expects leverage to remain near the upper end while construction spending is elevated, then decline as projects enter service and cash flows build. Higher U.S. interest rates remain a 2026 headwind, narrowing the cushion if project timing slips.
Enbridge’s Projects Need to Convert on ScheduleMainline Optimization Phase 1 is expected in 2027 and the Southern Illinois Connector in 2028. Together, the projects target 180,000 barrels per day of incremental egress, making their schedule important to the liquids-growth thesis.
Blackcomb began commissioning in the second quarter and is expected to reach full service by year-end 2026. Sequoia Solar is also scheduled for full service by year-end, giving Enbridge near-term opportunities to turn construction spending into operating contributions.
Enbridge’s Signals Favor a Balanced Valuation ViewEnbridge's risk-reward is balanced. Contracted cash flows, a visible backlog and a 5.4% yield support the case for patience, but the premium multiple, leverage near the top of the target range and financing costs raise the cost of execution mistakes.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Its Value Score of C, VGM Score of C and Growth Score of D are mixed, while the Momentum Score of A is the strongest style reading. Because Style Scores complement the Zacks Rank, the combination does not present a uniformly favorable buy signal despite solid momentum characteristics.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
BlackBerry čeká ve fiskálním roce 2027 asi 100 milionů USD provozního cash flow, což mu dává prostor pro další odkupy akcií. Ve čtvrtletí už odkoupil zpět 2,6 milionu akcií za zhruba 10 milionů USD.
Key Takeaways BB expects about $100 million in fiscal 2027 operating cash flow, boosting capital-allocation flexibility. BlackBerry bought back 2.6 million shares for about $10 million and authorized nearly 27 million more shares.QNX and Secure Communications momentum could strengthen BlackBerry's cash flows and support future buybacks. BlackBerry Limited (BB - Free Report) is experiencing an improving financial position, with stronger profitability and liquidity, offering greater flexibility to return capital to its shareholders.
With management expecting approximately $100 million of operating cash flow for fiscal 2027, the key question is whether stronger cash generation can pave the way for additional buybacks.
BB delivered strong first-quarter fiscal 2027 results, with quarterly revenues of $152.9 million, representing a 26% year-over-year increase. Adjusted EBITDA more than doubled to $36.3 million.
For the quarter ended on May 31, 2026, BlackBerry generated $4.6 million in operating cash flow, marking its first cash-positive fiscal first quarter in nine years (excluding special items related to patent sales) against usage of $18 million a year ago.
Free cash flow was $1.7 million for the quarter against an outflow of $18.9 million in the previous quarter. The company ended the quarter with $422.9 million in cash and investments.
This financial flexibility provides management with multiple options for capital allocation, including investments in growth opportunities, strategic initiatives and shareholder returns.
BlackBerry repurchased 2.6 million shares during the quarter for approximately $10 million. Since its launch in May last year, the company has bought back 18 million shares at an average price of $3.85 per share.
Encouraged by its financial position, management recently renewed and expanded the program, authorizing the repurchase of approximately 27 million additional shares.
With QNX benefiting from software-defined vehicle adoption, General Embedded Markets and Physical AI opportunities, and Secure Communications gaining momentum from government and digital sovereignty initiatives, BlackBerry appears positioned to generate stronger cash flows over time. If that trend continues, the company could have higher capacity to return capital to its shareholders through future buybacks while investing in long-term growth.
BlackBerry noted that 90% of incremental revenues are expected to flow through to adjusted EBITDA, highlighting the increasing operating leverage.
Let’s Look at Capital Allocation for CompetitorsWithin the cybersecurity space, BlackBerry competes with several giants, including CrowdStrike (CRWD - Free Report) . While BlackBerry’s focus remains on encrypted communications and sovereign-grade infrastructure, CRWD is a leading pure-play cybersecurity company. CrowdStrike is seeing strong adoption across cloud, identity and next-gen SIEM, with these newer categories exceeding $2 billion in ARR.
CrowdStrike generated $590.9 million in operating cash flow and $468.5 million in free cash flow in the fiscal first quarter. The company repurchased $176 million of shares and had approximately $1.3 billion remaining under its existing authorization. Management said the company would remain opportunistic in returning capital while continuing to invest in its growth opportunities. The company expects fiscal second quarter revenues to be between $1.436 billion and $1.442 billion.
Aptiv PLC (APTV - Free Report) is an automotive technology peer for BlackBerry's QNX business. The company repurchased $250 million worth of shares in the second quarter of 2026, bringing the year-to-date repurchases to $325 million. APTV intends to buy back a similar amount in the second half, which will bring the total repurchases for the year to more than $600 million.
2026 free cash flow is expected at $625-$725 million. Importantly, Aptiv added that it plans to use approximately 50% of expected free cash flow for regular share repurchases over the next few years, with 2026 repurchases expected to be materially above that level.
BB Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of BlackBerry have edged up 0.7% in the past month compared with the Internet-Software industry’s 5% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Regarding the price/book ratio, BB is trading at 6.95, higher than the industry’s multiple of 4.56.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BB earnings for fiscal 2027 has been revised downward over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
BlackBerry currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Pan American Silver ve 2. čtvrtletí zvýšila výnosy o 38,4 % na 1,12 miliardy USD, ale upravený zisk na akcii 73 centů zaostal za odhadem. Produkce stříbra vzrostla o 27 % na 6,47 milionu uncí.
Key Takeaways Pan American Silver's Q2 revenues rose 38.4% y/y on higher realized silver and gold prices.Silver output jumped 27%, helped by Juanicipio and higher grades at Cerro Moro.Cash flow and free cash flow rose, supporting a record $300M returned to shareholders. Pan American Silver Corp. (PAAS - Free Report) reported adjusted earnings of 73 cents per share for the second quarter of 2026, surging 69.8% year over year but missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 84 cents by 13.1%.
Including one-time items, Pan American Silver reported earnings of 72 cents in the quarter compared with the year-ago quarter’s earnings of 52 cents.
Pan American Silver’s revenues improved 38.4% year over year to $1.12 billion in the quarter under review. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.16 billion. The average realized silver price in the quarter skyrocketed 115.7% year over year to $70.97 per ounce. The average realized gold price increased 33.2% year over year to $4,402 per ounce.
Pan American Silver’s Q2 Silver Production Rises Y/YAttributable silver production reached 6.47 million ounces, at the high end of the company’s quarterly operating outlook. Production increased 27% year over year. The increase mainly reflected 1.74 million ounces from the acquired 44% interest in Juanicipio, while Cerro Moro benefited from higher grades due to mine sequencing.
Attributable gold production fell 7.2% to 165.9 thousand ounces. The figure came below the company’s quarterly operating outlook. Lower output at Shahuindo, Jacobina and El Peñon more than offset gains at Cerro Moro and the contribution from Juanicipio. Gold production came in below the company’s quarterly operating outlook.
Pan American Silver reported mine-operating earnings of $457 million in the quarter compared with $273 million in the prior-year quarter.
PAAS Faces Higher Gold Segment CostsThe Silver segment’s cash costs were $13.21 per ounce in the second quarter, down 9.9% from the year-ago period. The segment’s all-in sustaining costs (AISC) declined 9.5% year over year to $17.80 per ounce in the quarter. Low-AISC ounces from Juanicipio and stronger gold by-product credits at Cerro Moro helped offset higher royalties and operating costs at La Colorada, San Vicente and Huaron.
The Gold segment’s cash costs were $1,585 per ounce, reflecting a 20.8% increase from the year-ago quarter. The segment’s AISC costs amounted to $1,984 per ounce in the April-June period, representing a year-over-year increase of 23.2%. The increase reflected lower-grade mining and higher haulage, maintenance, labor, consumables and ground-support costs across operations including Jacobina, Minera Florida, Timmins and Shahuindo.
Pan American Silver’s Cash Flow Supports Shareholder ReturnsCash flow from operations increased to $320 million from $294 million despite $205 million of income taxes paid. The attributable free cash flow was $344 million compared with $234 million a year earlier, including Pan American’s 44% share of Juanicipio.
Pan American returned a record $300 million to shareholders during the quarter, including $224 million in share repurchases and $76 million in dividends. Cash and short-term investments totaled $1.8 billion at the quarter-end, including $97 million attributable to Juanicipio. In July, the company doubled its revolving credit facility to $1.5 billion, with a $750-million accordion feature.
PAAS Reaffirms 2026 OutlookPan American Silver reaffirmed its 2026 operating outlook for silver and gold production, base-metal production, segment AISC and sustaining capital. Silver production is projected at 25-27 million ounces, with silver segment AISC of $15.75-$18.25 per ounce.
The company expects gold production to finish at the low end of 700-750 thousand ounces and gold segment AISC at the high end of $1,700-$1,850 per ounce. Third-quarter gold production is expected to be 3-6 thousand ounces below the low end of 178.5 to 192.0 thousand ounces.
Pan American Silver Advances Key Growth ProjectsAt La Colorada Skarn, the company invested $20 million of project capital in the first half of 2026 and completed the first cut of the 588 Decline in early August. Engineering for the next phase, including material handling and ventilation infrastructure, is scheduled for board consideration in the second half.
At Jacobina, first-half project capital totaled $22 million as Pan American advanced plant and infrastructure improvements. The company also moved ahead with the first phase of the Timmins Camp Project, wherein the board approved a $146-million investment to extend the Bell Creek shaft and build exploration drifts.
PAAS Stock Price PerformanceShares of Pan American Silver have gained 51.1% in the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 77.6%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Pan American Silver’s Zacks RankPAAS’s Peer PerformancesEndeavour Silver Corporation (EXK - Free Report) reported adjusted earnings of 15 cents per share for the second quarter of 2026 against an adjusted loss of 3 cents incurred in the prior-year quarter. The bottom line met the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
Endeavour Silver’s revenues skyrocketed 149.4% to $212 million from $85 million in the second quarter of 2025. The top line beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $201 million.
First Majestic Silver Corp (AG - Free Report) posted earnings per share of 21 cents for second-quarter 2026, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 25 cents. AG posted earnings of 4 cents per share in the year-ago quarter.
First Majestic Silver’s revenues rose 57.2% year over year to $415 million in the quarter under review.
Buenaventura Mining Company (BVN - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings per share of 94 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 98 cents. BVN posted earnings of 40 cents per share in the year-ago quarter.
Buenaventura Mining’s revenues jumped 43.4% year over year to $529 million in the quarter under review. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $596 million.
Key Takeaways CNI has three hybrid locomotives in testing and plans two more conversions by the end of 2026. CNI's initial pilot delivered up to 50% better fuel efficiency, fewer engine failures and less idling. CNI's upgraded locomotives pair 2.8 MWh batteries with Tier 4 engines and boost horsepower to 3,800 HP Canadian National Railway (CNI - Free Report) continues to advance its hybrid locomotive development program, with three locomotives currently undergoing testing. It plans to convert two additional locomotives into hybrid-electric platforms with AC traction technology by the end of 2026. The initiative is aimed at improving fuel efficiency, reliability and operational performance while extending the useful life of existing yard locomotives and reducing emissions.
The program has already delivered encouraging results. During its initial hybrid locomotive pilot, CNI achieved up to a 50% improvement in fuel efficiency, along with fewer engine-related failures, higher horsepower and reduced idling. These improvements could help lower fuel consumption and operating costs while reducing noise and emissions in communities along CNI’s network.
The upgraded locomotives feature solid-state batteries, a larger 2.8 MWh battery system paired with an 800-horsepower Tier 4 engine, and increased total horsepower from 3,200 to 3,800 HP. The integration of AC traction motors into the existing DC motor frame also allows CNI to enhance locomotive performance while maintaining the same truck interface.
Overall, the hybrid locomotive program represents a positive step in CNI’s fleet modernization and sustainability efforts. The ability to repower existing locomotives rather than fully replace them could support capital efficiency while improving fuel economy, asset utilization and environmental performance. Continued testing under real-world operating conditions should help CNI further assess the technology’s potential for broader deployment across its North American network.
CNI’s Share Price PerformanceCNI’s shares have gained 36.1% over the past year compared with the Transportation - Rail industry’s 32% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
CNI’s Zacks RankCNI currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Stocks to ConsiderInvestors interested in the Zacks Transportation sector may consider Expeditors International of Washington, Inc. (EXPD - Free Report) and LATAM Airlines Group (LTM - Free Report) .
Expeditors currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
EXPD has an expected earnings growth rate of 28.6% for 2026. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 17.15%.
LATAM Airlines Group currently sports a Zacks Rank #1.
LTM has an expected earnings growth rate of 10.3% for the current year. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 97.9%.
Fortinet uvedl, že výsledky za druhé čtvrtletí podpořila silná poptávka po hardwaru a SASE, přičemž Unified SASE vzrostl o 35 % a FortiSASE billings se více než zdvojnásobily. Produktové tržby stouply o 52 %.
Cybersecurity Stocks Are Holding Up as the AI Trade Starts to CrackFortinet NASDAQ: FTNT CFO Christiane Ohlgart said the cybersecurity company’s second-quarter performance was supported by broad-based global demand, accelerating hardware sales and growing adoption of secure networking and unified secure access service edge, or SASE, offerings.
Speaking at a fireside chat, Ohlgart described the quarter as “fantastic,” pointing to demand across geographies and multiple customer use cases. She said growth in FortiGate hardware was particularly strong as organizations expanded networks and sought to improve security for operational technology, software-defined wide-area networking, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
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Time to Sell? 3 Winners With Fading Technical Momentum“We see broad-based demand across all our geos,” Ohlgart said. “We continue to see good demand for multiple use cases,” including OT, SD-WAN improvements, AI infrastructure and AI-enabled networking.
Unified SASE Growth Reflects Hardware and Cloud Strategy Ohlgart said Fortinet is benefiting from its installed base of SD-WAN customers as it seeks to extend those relationships into cloud-delivered SASE services. The company reported that Unified SASE grew 35% and represented about one-quarter of sales, while FortiSASE billings more than doubled, according to the discussion.
As AI Data Breaches Become More Common, This Cybersecurity ETF Is SurgingThe CFO said Fortinet’s approach differs from a cloud-only SASE model by combining cloud security with hardware deployed at the network edge. This model is particularly relevant for customers seeking unified security for both in-network and remote users, she said.
Ohlgart also cited sovereign SASE as an opportunity, especially in Europe, where regulations and customer requirements around control of infrastructure are becoming more important. She said Fortinet’s sovereign SASE pipeline is still developing and is currently smaller than its hybrid opportunity pipeline, but could be supported by telecommunications providers that want to build sovereign environments for customers such as public-sector organizations.
Fortinet’s recently introduced SD-WAN and SASE bundle includes services intended to improve SD-WAN functionality and security, along with a limited SASE license intended to give customers a way to test the cloud platform. Ohlgart said the bundle is designed as a starting point for future SASE upselling rather than an immediate driver of a major jump in billings or annual recurring revenue.
About 90% of Fortinet’s security service edge customers are already within its installed base, Ohlgart said, underscoring the role of existing SD-WAN deployments in the company’s SASE expansion.
Hardware Demand Includes Larger Appliances Fortinet reported product revenue growth of 52%, its second consecutive quarter of acceleration. Ohlgart said the increase was clearly demand-driven and required unit growth, but also reflected customers choosing larger hardware appliances.
“Even if we normalize for price increases, we saw ASP increases for the hardware,” she said, referring to average selling prices. Customers are moving toward “a little bit bigger boxes,” a trend the company has observed since the fourth quarter, she added.
Ohlgart said AI is contributing to this demand, not only through security needs around AI deployments but also because customers expect increased network traffic and are upgrading their infrastructure for greater performance.
The company has also adjusted hardware prices in response to component costs, including memory. Ohlgart said the impact of price increases on billings growth was in the high-single-digit percentage range. While memory prices have stabilized, she said availability remains constrained in some cases, potentially requiring expedited purchasing for certain components. Fortinet evaluates pricing on a product-by-product basis while seeking to remain competitive, she said.
Security, Networking and OT Remain Key Areas Ohlgart said Fortinet’s secure-networking strategy is gaining traction as customers look to consolidate technology, reduce operating complexity and improve their security posture. Fortinet’s switches can be controlled by a FortiGate through its FortiLink technology, enabling security inspection at the entry point to a network, she said.
Customers are increasingly looking beyond the cost of outside technology vendors and considering the internal staffing costs associated with managing fragmented infrastructure, Ohlgart said. Consolidated systems can help organizations operate network and security functions with fewer resources.
Fortinet also reported that OT billings accelerated 55% year over year. Ohlgart said demand spans public-sector organizations, manufacturers and other customers as awareness rises around the security risks facing critical infrastructure and increasingly digitized systems, including electric-vehicle charging stations.
The company uses OT specialists to support its account managers and works with industry partners including Rockwell, Honeywell, Siemens and Schneider Electric, according to Ohlgart.
Addressing concerns around disclosed vulnerabilities, or CVEs, Ohlgart said Fortinet’s large installed base makes it a frequent target and a subject of competitor criticism. She said the company aims to identify vulnerabilities in its own code, disclose them transparently and issue patches quickly. Fortinet is also working on measures such as virtual patching through its intrusion prevention system engine to protect devices before customers apply patches, she said.
Services and Future Growth Ohlgart said service billings grew 26%, while total deferred revenue increased 17% and service revenue rose 14%. She explained that service revenue is largely recognized from the balance sheet, while service billings reflect current-quarter selling activity, including renewals, services attached to hardware and service-only transactions.
Fortinet reported remaining performance obligations of $7.7 billion, up 16% year over year, and current RPO growth of 12%. Ohlgart said average service duration was about 30 months in the second quarter.
Looking toward 2027, Ohlgart said Fortinet sees new markets as the larger potential contributor to growth, including opportunities within its existing customer base as well as markets where it competes against other vendors.
About Fortinet (NASDAQ:FTNT)Fortinet, Inc NASDAQ: FTNT is a multinational cybersecurity company that develops and delivers integrated security solutions for enterprise, service provider and government customers worldwide. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, the company was co‑founded by Ken Xie and Michael Xie. Ken Xie serves as chairman and chief executive officer, and the company operates through a global sales, channel and services organization to support customers across the Americas, EMEA and Asia‑Pacific.
Fortinet's product portfolio centers on network security appliances and software, with its FortiGate next‑generation firewalls and the FortiOS operating system forming a core platform.
This instant news alert was generated by narrative science technology and financial data from MarketBeat in order to provide readers with the fastest reporting and unbiased coverage. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected].
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Cameco ve 2. čtvrtletí meziročně snížila upravenou EBITDA o 42 % na 391 mil. CAD kvůli slabším prodejům uranu a nižším ziskům z Westinghouse. Tržby klesly o 7 % na 814 mil. CAD.
Key Takeaways Cameco's Q2 adjusted EBITDA fell 42% as uranium sales and Westinghouse earnings declined.Uranium sales volumes dropped 18%, while higher realized prices partly offset weaker deliveries.Westinghouse has 91 potential AP1000 reactor opportunities, offering significant upside for Cameco. Cameco Corporation’s (CCJ - Free Report) second-quarter 2026 results reflected a significant slowdown from the strong growth reported in the first quarter, with adjusted EBITDA falling 42% year over year to CAD 391 million ($282 million). This reversed the 44% increase to CAD 509 million reported in the first quarter. The decline primarily stemmed from lower uranium sales volumes and a sharp reduction in equity earnings from Westinghouse.
Cameco’s second-quarter revenues decreased 7% year over year to CAD 814 million ($588 million), as both its Uranium and Fuel Services segments reported weaker results.
Uranium revenues fell 7% to CAD 659 million ($469 million), as sales volumes declined 18% to 7.1 million pounds. The decrease reflected normal quarterly delivery timing and the company’s disciplined contracting strategy, which calls for lower planned deliveries in 2026. The impact was partly offset by a 15% increase in the average realized price to CAD 93.13 per pound, supported by market-priced contracts.
Segment costs increased around 3%, as a 26% rise in the average unit cost of sales was partly offset by lower sales volumes. Higher costs reflected increased purchased material expenses, product loan impacts and the Cigar Lake maintenance shutdown. Consequently, adjusted EBITDA declined 28% year over year to CAD 252 million ($181 million).
Fuel Services revenues declined 6% to CAD 152 million ($108 million), as an 18% drop in sales volumes more than offset higher realized prices. Costs increased 1%, with a 21% rise in the average unit cost of sales, driven by product and service mix, largely offset by lower volumes. Adjusted EBITDA fell 26% to CAD 42 million ($30 million).
Westinghouse was another drag in the quarter. Cameco’s share of Westinghouse’s adjusted EBITDA was $163 million in the second quarter of 2026, a 54% plunge year over year. The comparison was impacted by a $170 million increase in Cameco’s share of Westinghouse’s second-quarter 2025 revenues related to its participation in the construction of two nuclear reactors at the Dukovany power plant in the Czech Republic. The impact was partly offset by higher fuel volumes in Westinghouse’s core business and increased AP1000 project activity compared with the prior-year quarter.
For 2026, Cameco expects total revenues of CAD $3.32-$3.57 billion, implying a roughly 1% decline from 2025. Uranium deliveries are projected at 29-32 million pounds, while uranium revenues are expected at CAD $2.7-$2.9 billion, based on a higher realized price assumption of CAD $91-$96 per pound. At the midpoint, uranium revenues would decline about 2% year over year, primarily due to lower delivery volumes. Fuel Services revenues are projected at CAD $610-$650 million, implying roughly 12% growth.
Despite near-term weakness, Cameco’s longer-term outlook remains supported by firm uranium prices amid structurally tight supply and rising nuclear energy demand. Fuel Services should provide stable growth, while Westinghouse offers significant upside through its pipeline of 91 potential AP1000 reactor opportunities totaling 105 GWe globally. A potential Westinghouse IPO could further unlock shareholder value, strengthen financial flexibility and improve business visibility, providing an additional catalyst for Cameco investors.
CCJ’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesIn the past year, Cameco shares have gained 27.7% compared with the industry’s 7.5% growth. Uranium peers Energy Fuels (UUUU - Free Report) gained 43.5% while Centrus Energy (LEU - Free Report) rose 4.7%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
CCJ stock is trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 16.49 compared with the industry’s 5.13. Energy Fuels is trading higher at 19.67, while Centrus Energy is trading lower at 8.18.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Cameco’s earnings for 2026 of $1.27 per share indicates year-over-year growth of 23.3%. The same for 2027 implies growth of 69.4%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The consensus estimate for Cameco’s earnings for 2026 has moved down over the past 60 days, while the same for 2027 has moved up, as shown in the chart below.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
T. Rowe Price nasadila více než 130 AI řešení a k 30. červnu 2026 je používalo přes 70 % zaměstnanců. Firma chce AI využít ke zlepšení produktivity i výsledků pro klienty.
Key Takeaways T. Rowe Price is expanding AI across investment, distribution and enterprise operations to drive growth.More than 130 AI solutions were deployed by June 30, with employee adoption exceeding 70%.TROW aims to turn AI adoption into better client outcomes and stronger investment capabilities. T. Rowe Price Group (TROW - Free Report) is expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) across its investment, distribution and enterprise operations as it looks to boost productivity, enhance investment capabilities and support long-term growth.
In sync with this, last week, TROW announced AI leadership changes as it looks to expand the use of AI across the company. T. Rowe Price has dedicated teams focused on investment applications, distribution, engineering and risk management, while integrating AI into research, portfolio analysis, sales and client-service workflows.
Within its investment organization, the company created an Investment AI Solutions organization led by Vinit Agrawal to develop AI capabilities across asset classes. The unit will focus on agentic AI products, education, strategic partnerships and research to support investment professionals. TROW has also introduced Chat TRP, formerly known as Investor Copilot, and is exploring agentic AI, which can execute multistep tasks with greater autonomy. By combining these capabilities with proprietary research and institutional knowledge, TROW aims to improve the efficiency of investment professionals without compromising differentiated human judgment.
AI adoption is also gaining traction across distribution. TROW’s Global Distribution AI Strategy and Transformation team, led by Sal Dhanani, is focused on improving client experiences, sales effectiveness and employee capabilities, while T. Rowe Price Labs evaluates emerging technologies and helps scale promising applications. Dedicated AI risk and governance functions are intended to support responsible deployment and regulatory readiness.
During the second-quarter 2026 earnings call, management noted that TROW had deployed more than 130 AI solutions by the end of June 30, 2026, with adoption exceeding 70% of employees. The scale of deployment suggests that AI is increasingly becoming embedded in the company’s day-to-day operations rather than remaining confined to pilot programs.
From a financial standpoint, broader AI adoption could strengthen operating leverage. Automating repetitive tasks, accelerating research and data analysis, and enabling employees to focus on higher-value activities may improve productivity and help contain expense growth over time.
For TROW, however, widespread adoption alone will not determine success. The key will be translating AI use into measurable productivity gains, better client outcomes and stronger investment capabilities. If the company can do so while maintaining effective governance and investment discipline, AI could become a meaningful competitive advantage and an important component of TROW’s broader efficiency and growth strategy.
AI Adoption by Other Financial FirmsPagaya Technologies’ (PGY - Free Report) business fundamentally revolves around artificial intelligence (AI)-powered decisioning and underwriting, which helps partners (banks and fintech originators) approve and fund credit more efficiently than traditional models. PGY’s AI analyzes massive datasets to price risk and approve non-traditional credit that legacy systems might decline. This model increases approval rates and expands the total volume of credit that partners can offer to consumers.
Beyond its core underwriting platform, Pagaya is also expanding its broader AI capabilities to enhance risk management, automation, portfolio optimization, and data-driven decision-making across the credit ecosystem.
Robinhood Markets’ (HOOD - Free Report) Robinhood has rapidly expanded its adoption of artificial intelligence, making it a central part of both its internal operations and customer-facing products. In May 2026, Robinhood took its AI strategy further by launching agentic trading, allowing customers to connect AI agents that can analyze portfolios and place trades through dedicated accounts with safety controls.
Overall, HOOD’s AI adoption shows a shift from using AI mainly to improve efficiency toward making AI an integral part of investing and financial decision-making.
TROW Price Performance & Zacks RankOver the past year, shares of T. Rowe Price have gained 9.1% against the industry’s decline of 5.5%.
Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
DuPontův systém MemCor MBR byl vybrán pro rozšíření čistírny odpadních vod v Canbeře a zvýší kapacitu o přibližně 97 milionů litrů denně. Zařízení se bude vyrábět v Austrálii.
Key Takeaways DuPont's MemCor MBR system was selected for a major wastewater treatment upgrade in Canberra.The system will provide about 97 million liters per day of treatment capacity and will be made in Australia.DuPont says rising population and infrastructure investment are driving demand for scalable water solutions. DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (DD - Free Report) recently announced that its MemCor membrane bioreactor (“MBR”) system has been selected for the expansion of the treatment facility at the Lower Molonglo Water Quality Control Center (“LMWQCC”) in Canberra, Australia. The project will help the facility address rising wastewater treatment demand driven by population growth.
The LMWQCC, owned and operated by Icon Water, is the largest inland wastewater treatment facility in Australia and has been operational since the late 1970s. As part of its major upgrade in collaboration with Seymour Whyte and VINCI Construction Grands Projects, the facility will add a new secondary treatment process based on advanced membrane technology.
DuPont’s MemCor MBR system will provide a treatment capacity of approximately 97 million liters per day, enabling the facility to support Canberra’s requirements. The system will also be manufactured in Australia, highlighting DuPont’s ability to combine global technology with local expertise.
The selection strengthens DuPont’s position in the market, where demand for efficient and scalable solutions is increasing alongside population growth and infrastructure investment. MemCor MBR systems, along with MemPulse modules, have been deployed across hundreds of municipal and industrial installations worldwide, building a high reputation based on high reliability.
DuPont’s Water Solutions portfolio includes membranes, resins and complete treatment systems serving municipalities, desalination plants and industrial users across 112 countries. The project further demonstrates the company’s role in addressing growing global water-treatment needs.
DD’s shares have lost 33.4% over the past year against the industry’s 7.4% rise.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
DD’s Zacks Rank & Key PicksDD currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks in the Basic Materials space are Neo Performance Materials Inc. (NOPMF - Free Report) , Carpenter Technology Corporation (CRS - Free Report) and Avient Corporation (AVNT - Free Report) .
While NOPMF currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), CRS and AVNT carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) each. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NOPMF’s 2026 earnings is pinned at $1.48 per share, indicating a 202.04% year-over-year increase. NOPMF’s shares have gained 113.7% over the past year.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CRS’ fiscal 2027 earnings is pegged at $12.92 per share, indicating a rise of 20.07% year over year. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, with an average surprise of 8.39%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AVNT’s current-year earnings is pinned at $3.17 per share, indicating a 12.41% year-over-year increase. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, with an average surprise of 3.4%. AVNT’s shares have gained 29.5% over the past year.
Rivian letos klesá o 25 % a hlavní obavou je zánik regulačních kreditů v hodnotě 164 milionů USD ve druhé polovině roku 2026. Firma zároveň zvýšila výhled dodávek.
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Rivian (NASDAQ:RIVN | RIVN Price Prediction) stock is down 25% year to date (YTD) as of Friday’s close, a slide that stands out inside the electric vehicle cohort even as the broader autonomous and electric vehicle basket has climbed. Rivian shares are sliding again Monday afternoon, down 3% to $14.90.
The options market is priced for calm. Rivian’s worst peak-to-trough fall over the past year was 43%, and yet Rivian stock was up 27% over the past year through Friday’s close. The bigger tension inside the story is that management raised the delivery guide while loading the year into a single quarter of a first-time ramp.
The first-half margin picture leaned on a large slug of regulatory credit revenue that is now set to vanish. That’s the core of the bear case, and it belongs high in the story.
The Credits That Vanish CFO Claire McDonough confirmed on the July 30 call that Rivian booked “$164 million of regulatory credits that benefited our gross profit outlook in the first half.” Those credits largely disappear in the second half of 2026, and McDonough pointed to their absence as “the bigger driver” of a steeper second-half EBITDA loss.
Rivian’s 2026 adjusted EBITDA loss guide improved by $50 million at the midpoint, and the delivery outlook rose by 3,000 units. Some of that improvement itself leaned on second-quarter credits and a tariff refund booked inside cost of goods, so the H2 setup is less forgiving than the guide raise suggests.
The Back-Loaded Year Management now targets 65,000 to 70,000 vehicles for the year across R1, R2 and the commercial van, which implies 42,400 to 47,400 deliveries in the second half against roughly 22,600 delivered in the first half. Rivian delivered 12,194 vehicles in Q2 2026. COO Javier Varela stated the second shift at the Normal, Illinois plant will “not be expecting any material contribution to volumes” in the third quarter, with the lift arriving in the fourth.
The progress underneath is real. Rivian’s automotive gross loss narrowed from $62 million in Q1 2026 to $36 million in Q2, and cost of goods per vehicle fell roughly $5,000 from Q1 to Q2 once $100 million of R2 ramp cost is excluded. McDonough reiterated that Rivian expects R2 to “achieve a positive gross profit as part of our exit rate for 2026.”
The R2 Trim Problem and Factory Math R2 launched with a $58,000 Launch Edition, the priciest variant in the line, with premium and standard trims arriving “early 2027.” CEO RJ Scaringe stated conversion rates on the Launch Edition are running “meaningfully higher than what we expected,” and non-converters mostly cite the missing trims. The constraint is cost.
R2, R1 and the Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) delivery vans share the Normal plant, and Rivian’s trailing twelve month revenue sits at $5.9 billion. A plant-level margin flip against that base would be a step change rather than an increment.
Autonomy: Half the Price, Not Yet the Capability Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) stock was down 24% YTD through Friday’s close, and shares are trading down 0.6% to $340.37 Monday. Tesla remains the largest EV maker and the benchmark for autonomy software.
CNBC testing found Tesla’s FSD handled highway and city routes with little intervention, while Rivian’s Autonomy+ still requires driver input for some maneuvers and cannot change lanes on its own. Rivian prices Autonomy+ at $49.99 per month against Tesla’s FSD subscription at $99 per month, a genuine high-margin opportunity that is not yet proven recurring revenue.
Lucid (NASDAQ:LCID) stock was down 41% YTD through Friday’s close, a far steeper decline than Rivian’s. Lucid shares are down 0.2% to $6.21 Monday. The premium EV maker’s slide illustrates the broader stress on pure-play manufacturers.
The ETF Angle The Global X Autonomous & Electric Vehicles ETF (NASDAQ:DRIV) had gained 22% YTD through Friday’s close, in stark contrast to declines across all three pure-play EV makers.
The gains are coming from elsewhere in the supply chain, since a broad autonomous and electric vehicle basket holds far more than automakers themselves. The ETF is a narrow thematic fund with meaningful concentration risk, and it is not leveraged.
What to Watch Implied volatility on Rivian sits at 53, the sixth percentile of its trailing-year range, so the options market is priced for calm ahead of a high-stakes earnings report. Investors can watch for whether fourth-quarter deliveries land inside the 42,400 to 47,400 second-half range and whether the second shift adds volume on schedule.
The next markers are whether automotive gross profit turns positive exiting 2026 without regulatory credits, whether point-to-point driving launches this year, and whether Autonomy+ subscriptions begin converting into disclosed recurring revenue. The Q3 2026 earnings report will do most of the talking.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
YPF, Eni a XRG podaly žádost o schválení v rámci režimu RIGI pro projekt Argentina LNG, což je klíčový krok k finálnímu investičnímu rozhodnutí do konce roku 2026. Projekt počítá se dvěma jednotkami FLNG s kapacitou 12 MTPA.
Key Takeaways YPF, Eni and XRG seek RIGI approval as the Argentina LNG project moves toward a 2026 FID.Two FLNG units could provide 12 MTPA capacity, linking Vaca Muerta gas to global LNG markets.The integrated project spans gas production, transportation, processing and offshore LNG exports. YPF Sociedad Anónima (YPF - Free Report) is advancing its Argentina LNG project with Eni S.p.A. (E - Free Report) and XRG, creating a potentially significant long-term growth opportunity by leveraging the world-class gas resources of the Vaca Muerta formation. The consortium has submitted an application to join Argentina’s Large Investment Incentive Regime ("RIGI"), marking an important step toward the development of a large-scale liquefied natural gas ("LNG"") export platform. For YPF, the project could expand its role from domestic energy production toward international LNG markets, creating an additional avenue for growth and value creation.
The RIGI application is an important milestone on the path toward a final investment decision (FID), targeted for the end of 2026. Securing the required investment incentives could help support the development of the capital-intensive infrastructure needed for the project. For YPF investors, progress toward FID would provide greater visibility into the company's plans to monetize Vaca Muerta's substantial gas resources and develop a new export-oriented business.
12-MTPA LNG Capacity Could Unlock Vaca Muerta ValueThe Argentina LNG project is designed as an integrated LNG value chain, covering upstream gas production, transportation, processing and export infrastructure. The project includes two floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) units with combined liquefaction capacity of 12 million tonnes per year (MTPA), which are planned to be located offshore in Río Negro province. This integrated approach could allow YPF to capture value across multiple stages of the gas-to-LNG chain rather than relying solely on domestic gas sales.
For YPF, the planned 12-MTPA capacity represents an opportunity to convert Vaca Muerta's abundant gas resources into a globally traded commodity. Expanding LNG export capacity could also provide access to international markets and potentially diversify YPF's revenue sources. The project therefore has the potential to become an important long-term growth platform if development proceeds as planned.
Eni & XRG Strengthen YPF's LNG Growth StrategyThe partnership with Eni and XRG is another important element of the project. Eni brings complementary capabilities in energy development and LNG, while XRG adds its own resources and expertise to the consortium. The combination of YPF, Eni and XRG could strengthen the project's ability to develop an integrated LNG value chain and connect Argentina's gas resources with international markets.
For YPF, working alongside Eni and XRG also provides an opportunity to combine distinct capabilities rather than developing the entire project independently. Such collaboration could support the development of upstream production, gas transportation, processing and offshore liquefaction infrastructure.
Argentina LNG Project Could Diversify YPF's Earnings BaseArgentina LNG project could provide YPF with a new source of long-term growth by opening an export outlet for Vaca Muerta gas. The project's integrated structure and planned 12-MTPA capacity could increase the commercial value of the company's upstream resources while expanding its exposure to international LNG demand. Successful development would strengthen YPF's business model, elevate its standing in global gas trade and enhance its investor appeal.
Zacks Rank & Key PicksYPF and Eni currently carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks in the energy sector are Valero Energy Corporation (VLO - Free Report) and HF Sinclair Corporation (DINO - Free Report) . Valero and HF Sinclair currently sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) each. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks Rank #1 stocks here.
Valero operates 14 global refineries with a daily refinery throughput capacity of 3 million barrels. The refiner’s ethanol operations are spread across 12 U.S. ethanol plants. During the second quarter of 2026, VLO recorded strong gains in its ethanol sector. Margins expanded to $1.15 per gallon from 52 cents. Operating income rose to 75 cents per gallon compared with 13 cents a year earlier.
HF Sinclair is an independent refiner producing gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, renewable diesel, lubricants and specialty products. In second-quarter 2026, DINO’s adjusted EBITDA increased to $1.5 billion from $665 million a year earlier, driven by stronger refining margins, higher volumes and solid execution. Meanwhile, the company’s renewable fuels adjusted EBITDA rose to $123 million against a $2 million loss reported a year ago due to increased renewable identification number prices, improved Producer’s Tax Credit benefits and higher volumes.
Berkshire Hathaway, Druckenmiller, Klarman, Tepper i Loeb ve stejném čtvrtletí nakupovali Alphabet. Firma zároveň vykázala EPS 9,11 USD a tržby 119,80 miliardy USD, meziročně o 24,2 % více.
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Between August 13 and 14, 2026, Q2 2026 13F filings landed and told a rare story: Stanley Druckenmiller, Seth Klarman, David Tepper, Dan Loeb, and Berkshire Hathaway all moved into Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL | GOOGL Price Prediction) in the same quarter. Consensus buys of that magnitude across value, macro, and event-driven billionaires almost never happen simultaneously in a single mega-cap name.
The filings, which report positions as of June 30, 2026, show the following.
Berkshire Hathaway added 24,541,369 GOOGL shares to reach 78,791,167 shares, a position valued at $28,157,599,351, and also added 23,603,218 GOOG shares to reach 27,188,433, valued at $9,606,489,032, together roughly 0.93% of the company. Druckenmiller’s Duquesne Family Office opened a brand new GOOGL position of 336,300 shares worth $120,184,000. Klarman’s Baupost Group added 190,800 GOOG shares to reach 1,371,931 shares valued at $484,744,000. Tepper’s Appaloosa added 117,300 GOOG shares to reach 1,850,000, valued at $653,660,500. Loeb’s Third Point took GOOGL from 175,000 to 1,025,000 shares, adding 850,000 shares valued at $366,304,250, and opened positions in two additional Alphabet share classes. It’s worth emphasizing that Buffett is now the Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway and day-to-day CEO duties fall to Greg Abel. However, recent reporting from The Wall Street Journal shows that Buffett pushed for an outsized addition of Alphabet during the quarter.
The Thesis ‘Smart Money’ Is Backing Alphabet trades at a trailing P/E of 17 against a PEG of 0.969, and shares sit at $345.90, down 6.75% over the past month even after a 70.93% one-year run. Q2 earnings were the catalyst: EPS of $9.11 against a $3.04 estimate, revenue of $119.80 billion up 24.2% year over year, and Google Cloud accelerating to 82% growth at $24.77 billion. Sundar Pichai noted “nearly 90% of the Fortune 100 using” Gemini Enterprise, and Gemini models now process 22 billion API tokens per minute.
For value-oriented investors like Klarman and Tepper, this is a Mag 7 franchise trading at a cyclical trough multiple while cloud reaccelerates. For Druckenmiller, a macro allocator opening a new position, the thesis reads as an AI infrastructure call.
The Other Side Retail Investors Should Weigh ‘Smart money’ bought a company that has been visibly bleeding senior AI talent. In June, five top Google AI researchers left in seven days, and Jim Cramer called Noam Shazeer’s jump to OpenAI “a coup.” Then in August, a key AI architect quit, reigniting fears Gemini is losing ground to OpenAI and Anthropic. Cash costs are climbing too: Q2 free cash flow turned negative at $5.86 billion, long-term debt rose from $46.5 billion to $98.2 billion, and the buyback was suspended.
Against all this news, Alphabet has badly underperformed Mag 7 peers across the past month like Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT). Remember that 13-F filing are a snapshot in time. Reports of recent buys were just released, but only cover positions on June 30th. While Berkshire is unlikely to have reduced its Alphabet holdings, it will be interesting whether other names on this list that trade more frequently (such as Tepper and Druckenmiller) reduce or increase their position in Alphabet as the stock trails peers across what’s generally be a rally for AI stocks in recent weeks.
Is It Worth Following? 13F filings are point-in-time snapshots disclosed roughly 45 days later, so none of these funds necessarily hold these positions today, and share counts, not dollar values, are the only reliable signal of activity. That said, the coincidence of Druckenmiller, Klarman, Tepper, Loeb, and Berkshire buying the same name at 15x forward earnings is a legitimate flag for a retirement investor.
The thesis is defensible: cheapest Mag 7 multiple, accelerating cloud, and Waymo optionality. The risk is equally clear: talent flight and a CapEx cycle that has already erased free cash flow. Follow it as a research prompt for your own diligence.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Lumentum oznámil ve fiskálním 4. čtvrtletí meziroční růst tržeb o 109 % na něco přes 1 miliardu USD a upravený zisk na akcii (EPS) 3,23 USD. Akcie po výsledcích druhý den vyskočily o více než 13 %.
Shares of Micron Technology and Sandisk have clocked phenomenal returns over the past year, primarily due to the mission-critical role of the memory chips produced by them for running artificial intelligence (AI) workloads in data centers.
Faster memory chips and larger storage help solve a key bottleneck in AI data centers by enabling the rapid transport of large volumes of data to data center accelerators. As a result, accelerator chips, such as graphics cards and custom processors, don't have to sit idle and waste energy. However, a closer look at the AI infrastructure ecosystem makes it clear that memory isn't the only bottleneck impeding accelerator performance.
Image source: Getty Images.
Meet the fast-growing company winning big from the next big AI bottleneck The rapid transport of data has created an incredible demand for optical networking components, which use light to quickly transmit massive amounts of data over long distances via fiber-optic cables. Investment banking and brokerage firm Rosenblatt Securities estimates that optical component companies could increase production capacity by 12x between 2025 and 2030.
However, even that won't be enough to meet the booming demand for optical components. Rosenblatt predicts that supply will trail demand by 50% in 2030 despite the massive increase in production through the end of the decade. This explains why optical and photonics components supplier Lumentum Holdings (LITE +6.81%) has been experiencing incredible growth in revenue and earnings.
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The company released its fiscal 2026 fourth-quarter results (for the three months ended June 27) on Aug. 11, and its shares popped more than 13% the following day. Lumentum easily crushed analysts' expectations, and its guidance makes it clear that the company's red-hot growth momentum is sustainable.
Lumentum's revenue shot up by 109% year over year to just over $1 billion in fiscal Q4, exceeding the $988 million consensus estimate. Its bottom-line growth, however, was the icing on the cake. Lumentum's non-GAAP operating margin increased by 21.6 percentage points year over year in fiscal Q4 to 36.6%. As a result, the company's adjusted earnings per share rose almost 3.7x year over year to $3.23, exceeding the consensus estimate of $2.97.
Lumentum expects its revenue in the current quarter to increase at a stronger pace of 134% year over year to $1.25 billion. The company anticipates adjusted earnings per share to jump from $1.10 in the year-ago period to $4.20 per share in the current quarter, which would be an improvement over the growth it clocked last quarter.
Investors can expect Lumentum's earnings to continue growing at such healthy rates over the long run amid the ongoing supply crunch in optical components. An important point worth noting is that Goldman Sachs expects the optical networking market's revenue to increase by a whopping 9x to $154 billion by 2028.
This should pave the way for robust top-line growth at Lumentum in the long run, while supply constraints should ensure that its margins continue to rise, fueling further earnings growth.
Lumentum stock can keep soaring despite jumping substantially this year Lumentum stock has clocked impressive gains of 140% in 2026, as of this writing. However, the company's terrific earnings growth potential suggests this AI stock is poised for further upside. Lumentum's non-GAAP earnings per share increased by just over 4x in fiscal 2026 to $8.67. The following chart shows that Lumentum's earnings are on track to grow impressively over the next three years.
Data by YCharts
Specifically, Lumentum's earnings are projected to increase by 5.3x in just three years (from fiscal 2026 levels). That translates into a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 74%, which is much higher than the 30% and 14% earnings growth that S&P 500 companies are expected to deliver over the next two years.
Lumentum trades at 42 times forward earnings, which is double the forward earnings multiple of the S&P 500 index. However, that valuation is justified by its outstanding growth. Assuming it continues to trade at 43 times earnings after three years and its earnings per share reach $45.98, in line with the consensus estimates shown in the chart above, its stock price could jump to $1,977.
That suggests potential upside of 113% over the next three years, which is why investors looking to add a growth stock can still buy Lumentum, as it could continue to skyrocket due to favorable demand-supply dynamics in the optical components space.
NVIDIA podpoří až 105 miliard USD financování datového centra OpenAI v Ohiu a investuje 1,5 miliardy USD do SB Energy. AEP Ohio má dodat elektřinu pro areál.
, a regulated utility and electricity-transmission operator, traded almost flat at $125.46 Monday morning as the AI infrastructure race pushed deeper into the power sector. NVIDIA
NVDA +0.44% 95
agreed to backstop up to $105 billion of financing obligations tied to OpenAI's massive Ohio data center project while investing $1.5 billion in SB Energy, the SoftBank-backed developer behind the campus.
The big winner from the AI boom may not just be chipmakers. Utilities are becoming the backbone of the next growth cycle. AEP Ohio is positioned to supply electricity for the Pike County project, which could eventually require 4.25 gigawatts of initial capacity with expansion options beyond that. The company is also supporting a $4.2 billion transmission upgrade program, while SB Energy has committed to covering those infrastructure costs instead of shifting the burden onto existing customers.
The valuation story remains more balanced. AEP traded at $125.41 versus its GF Value™ of $114.89, placing the stock approximately 9.16% above its estimated intrinsic value. Investors are clearly giving AEP credit for its role in powering the AI expansion, but the earnings impact is still a future event. Electricity is not expected to begin flowing to the site until 2029, meaning regulatory approvals, construction execution and demand growth will determine whether this becomes a major earnings catalyst or simply a long-term infrastructure bet.
The AI race needs more than GPUs. It needs power, transmission lines and companies capable of delivering electricity at massive scale. AEP is now sitting directly in the middle of that opportunity.
United Rentals uvedla, že více než 90 % současného růstu je organického, přesto M&A zůstává součástí dlouhodobé strategie. Ve 2. čtvrtletí tržby z pronájmu stouply meziročně o 12,7 % na rekordních 3,85 miliardy USD.
Key Takeaways United Rentals says 90% of current growth is organic, with M&A still part of its longer-term strategy.URI's Q2 rental revenues rose 12.7% to a record $3.85B, while specialty rental revenues jumped 24.8%.URI has nearly $3B of liquidity and 1.8x net leverage, providing financial flexibility to pursue deals. United Rentals, Inc.’s (URI - Free Report) growth story is currently being powered overwhelmingly by organic expansion, but mergers and acquisitions remain an important component of its longer-term strategy. Management noted on the second-quarter earnings call that roughly 90%+ of the company’s current growth is organic. At the same time, CEO Matthew Flannery described the acquisition pipeline as robust and said URI continues to evaluate opportunities of different sizes, particularly those that can add products or strengthen specialty offerings.
The strength of the organic business was evident in the second quarter of 2026. Rental revenues increased 12.7% year over year to a quarterly record of $3.85 billion, supported by a 7.1% increase in average fleet size and 3.4% fleet productivity. Specialty rental revenues climbed 24.8% to $1.43 billion, compared with 6.6% growth in General Rentals. Specialty could also remain a focus for future acquisitions. The business accounted for roughly 37% of United Rentals’ total revenues in 2025, up from 16% in 2015, while specialty revenues recorded a 20.2% CAGR over the 2015-2025 period.
Still, strong organic growth does not make acquisitions irrelevant. M&A has historically helped United Rentals broaden both its geographic reach and product portfolio. The company cited the 2024 acquisition of Yak as an example of expanding adjacent specialty offerings, while the acquisition of Ahern Rentals in 2022 strengthened its core rental operations. URI continues to characterize strategic acquisitions as a way to expand the business and support its broader strategic objectives. With net leverage at 1.8x and nearly $3 billion of liquidity, URI has ample financial flexibility to pursue deals.
Overall, M&A looks more like an accelerator than a necessity. Strong organic growth gives URI room to remain selective, while targeted acquisitions could still enhance its specialty portfolio and strengthen its one-stop-shop strategy.
United Rentals, Gibraltar and Masco: Who Has the Better Growth Mix?United Rentals appears to have the strongest organic growth profile compared with Gibraltar Industries, Inc. (ROCK - Free Report) and Masco Corporation (MAS - Free Report) . URI management said more than 90% of its current growth is organic, while maintaining a robust M&A pipeline focused partly on adding products and strengthening specialty offerings.
Gibraltar’s recent growth is more acquisition-assisted. Second-quarter 2026 sales surged 64.6% to $510 million following the OmniMax acquisition, while companywide organic growth was 5%. The combination is producing benefits, with management raising its 2026 synergy commitment to $29.4 million of executed savings. However, Gibraltar ended the quarter at 3.9x net leverage and has made debt reduction its priority over the next 12-18 months, potentially limiting near-term acquisition flexibility.
Masco presents a more balanced capital-allocation picture. Second-quarter 2026 sales declined 3%, although underlying sales were roughly flat excluding targeted strategic investments. The company ended the quarter with 2.1x gross debt-to-EBITDA and $1.5 billion of liquidity, and now expects to deploy about $1 billion toward share repurchases or acquisitions in 2026.
Overall, URI appears least dependent on M&A to sustain growth. Gibraltar is focused on extracting value from OmniMax and deleveraging, while Masco retains acquisition capacity but is also prioritizing organic investments and shareholder returns. For URI, selective deals could complement an already strong organic growth engine rather than create it.
URI Stock’s Price Performance & Valuation TrendShares of this Connecticut-based equipment rental company climbed 42.6% in the year-to-date (YTD) period, outperforming the Zacks Building Products - Miscellaneous industry, the broader Zacks Construction sector and the S&P 500 Index.
URI YTD Share Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
URI Valuation
URI stock is currently trading at a premium compared with the industry peers, with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 21.75, as the trend lines suggest below.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Earnings Estimate Trend of URIURI’s earnings estimates for 2026 and 2027 have moved upward over the past 30 days to $48.55 and $55.71 per share, respectively. The revised estimates for 2026 and 2027 imply year-over-year improvement of 9.6% and 15.4%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
URI’s Zacks RankUnited Rentals currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Vicor zvýšil výhled na více než 600 milionů USD tržeb v roce 2026 po růstu tržeb v 1. pololetí o 35 % na 256,3 milionu USD. Backlog vzrostl na zhruba 380 milionů USD, meziročně o 145 %.
Key Takeaways Vicor shares have surged 114.2% YTD as stronger demand, backlog growth and AI prospects lift sentiment.VICR's backlog hit about $380M, up 145% y/y, while 1H revenues rose 35%.Vicor targets more than $600M in 2026 revenues as royalties rise and Gen2 VPD development advances. Vicor (VICR - Free Report) shares are trading at a premium, as suggested by a Value Score of F. In terms of the trailing 12-month EV/Sales, VICR is trading at 21.88X, higher than the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector’s 8.44X. VICR is trading at a higher multiple compared with peers, including Monolithic Power Systems’ (MPWR - Free Report) 20.62X, Analog Devices’ (ADI - Free Report) 15.19X and Texas Instruments’ (TXN - Free Report) 13.43X.
Vicor’s Shares Trade at a Premium
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Is Vicor worth buying at current prices? Let us dig deep to find out.
VICR Shares Ride on AI ProspectsYear to date (YTD), Vicor shares have outperformed the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector, as well as Monolithic Power Systems, Analog Devices and Texas Instruments. Vicor returned a whopping 114.2% YTD while the broader sector, Monolithic Power Systems, Analog Devices and Texas Instruments have returned 18.9%, 54.7%, 43.6% and 61.1%, respectively.
Vicor Stock’s Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
VICR’s sharp YTD appreciation has been supported by a combination of stronger operating momentum, rapidly improving demand visibility and increased confidence in its AI-related power-delivery opportunity. On a year-over-year basis, first-half 2026 revenues increased 35% to $256.3 million.
More importantly for investor sentiment, backlog reached roughly $380 million, up 26% sequentially and 145% year over year, while book-to-bill remained above 1. Vicor attributed the backlog strength largely to rising product demand rather than the new license agreement, highlighting strength across high-performance computing, automatic test equipment, industrial, and aerospace and defense markets.
The new licensing agreement materially strengthened the recurring royalty narrative. In the second quarter of 2026, royalty revenues reached $30.4 million compared with $10.4 million in the year-ago quarter, with the latest agreement expected to contribute $5 million in third-quarter 2026 and $10 million per quarter for the subsequent four quarters.
Vicor consequently raised its outlook to more than $600 million of 2026 revenues and expects nearly 10% sequential revenue growth in third-quarter 2026, reinforcing expectations that the current demand upcycle has further room to run.
VICR’s Prospects Ride on AI-Related DemandVicor benefits from its exposure to the increasing power-density requirements of AI accelerators and high-performance computing systems. The company believes that first-generation vertical power delivery solutions are increasingly constrained by insufficient current density and current gain, while Vicor’s second-generation VPD architecture is targeting current densities of up to 5 amps/mm² with current gain above 40.
The company has completed an initial 3 amps/mm² chipset for its lead customer, and is developing demonstration systems for additional customers and expects to push beyond 4 amps/mm² around late 2026 or early 2027. VICR expects engagement with additional hyperscalers and OEMs through 2026, with some programs potentially evolving into production ramps around late third-quarter 2027 or fourth-quarter 2027.
A second structural driver is the combination of product sales and IP licensing, which could increase revenue scale and margin potential. Vicor has set long-term objectives of $2.5 billion in revenues, a 70% gross margin and a 40% operating margin compared with its previous targets of $1 billion and 65%, with management describing licensing and power-module sales as mutually reinforcing businesses. Vicor already has multiple OEM licensees and one hyperscaler licensee, while management expects licensing income to expand materially over time as OEMs and hyperscalers increasingly address Vicor’s IP portfolio.
Capacity expansion is another important enabler. Demand is already absorbing additional capacity at Vicor’s first vertically integrated ChiP fab, and management said that the facility is approaching full utilization. Vicor is therefore pursuing a second fab; management indicated that the initial phase would roughly double capacity, while potential sites could ultimately accommodate two to three times the capacity of the first fab. This expansion is critical to achieving the $2.5-billion revenue objective and should provide room to support AI customers as Gen2 VPD adoption develops.
Vicor’s 2026 Earnings Estimate Revision Shows Rising TrendThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings is pegged at $3.12 per share, up 6.1% over the past 30 days, suggesting 19.54% growth from the 2025 reported figure.
The consensus mark for third-quarter 2026 earnings is pegged at 71 cents per share, down by four cents over the past 30 days and indicating 12.7% growth from the figure reported in the year-ago quarter.
ConclusionVicor’s premium valuation leaves limited room for execution missteps, but the company’s improving fundamentals and expanding AI opportunity provide meaningful support for the stock. Robust backlog growth, rising royalty revenues, strengthening demand across high-performance computing markets and continued progress with its next-generation VPD technology position Vicor well for sustained growth.
Although the stock’s strong YTD rally and elevated valuation may warrant some near-term caution, Vicor’s growing exposure to AI infrastructure, expanding licensing opportunity and planned capacity additions strengthen its long-term growth prospects. Investors willing to tolerate valuation-related volatility may consider VICR an attractive stock to hold for continued participation in the AI-driven power-delivery opportunity.
Vicor currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Na Bloom Energy byla podána hromadná žaloba kvůli údajným nepravdivým a zavádějícím tvrzením o skandiu získávaném přes prostředníky z Číny. Žaloba tvrdí, že firma podcenila svou závislost na čínském skandiu.
NEW YORK, Aug. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE: BE) 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 Bloom Energy securities between February 27, 2026 and July 8, 2026, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: bgandg.com/BE.
Bloom Energy Case Details
The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:
that Bloom Energy obtained scandium through intermediaries who sourced the metal from China;that, as a result, the Company understated the extent to which it relied on scandium from China; andthat, 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 Bloom 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/BE. 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 Bloom Energy you have until September 28, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.
No Cost to Bloom 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 Bloom 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]
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Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Key Takeaways RLI's decentralized model enables specialized risk selection and pricing while adapting to market conditions. RLI delivered $59.9 million of underwriting income and an 85.6 combined ratio in Q2 2026. RLI's underwriting profits support dividends, share repurchases and investment income from insurance float. RLI Corp.’s (RLI - Free Report) decentralized underwriting model supports strong underwriting profitability by giving individual business units significant autonomy to assess risks, price policies and select accounts based on specialized expertise. This approach enables RLI to respond quickly to changing market conditions while maintaining disciplined risk selection rather than pursuing premium growth at the expense of margins. The model has contributed to a long track record of underwriting profitability, with RLI recording its 30th consecutive year of underwriting income in 2025, generating $264.2 million of underwriting income at an 83.6 combined ratio.
The momentum continued in 2026, with RLI producing $59.9 million of underwriting income and an 85.6 combined ratio in the second quarter, supported by strong margins in its Property and Surety businesses.
Underwriting profit is a core earnings driver and competitive advantage for RLI because it allows the company to generate profits directly from its insurance operations, rather than relying primarily on investment income.
Profitable underwriting allows RLI to earn money from premiums while retaining the premiums and reserves for investment, creating a dual earnings engine of underwriting income plus investment income. RLI specifically identifies these as two of the ways it generates shareholder returns.
Strong underwriting earnings increase financial flexibility, supporting regular dividends, special dividends and share repurchases. In 2025, RLI returned $184 million through a $2-per-share special dividend, while its strong financial performance helped drive a 33% increase in book value per share.
Underwriting profit enables RLI to compound earnings, strengthen capital, generate investment income from insurance float and return more capital to shareholders. Its long record of sub-100% combined ratios makes underwriting profitability a particularly important differentiator for RLI.
What About Its Peers?The Travelers Companies’ (TRV - Free Report) underwriting income is one of the most important earnings drivers. It allows the company to generate profit from its core P&C insurance operations while also producing investment income from the premiums and reserves it holds. Higher underwriting profitability contributes to stronger core income and cash generation, which gives Travelers greater capacity to pay dividends and repurchase shares.
Chubb Limited’s (CB - Free Report) profitable underwriting directly increases its earnings. Chubb Limited benefits from both underwriting income and investment income. Consistent underwriting profits increase the amount of capital Chubb Limited can retain within the business. This supports balance-sheet strength, business expansion and investments in technology, data and AI.
RLI’s Price PerformanceShares of RLI have lost 4.6% in the past year against the industry.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
RLI’s Expensive ValuationThe stock is overvalued compared with its industry. It is currently trading at a price-to-book ratio of 3.34, above the industry average of 1.42.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Estimate Movement for RLIThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for RLI’s fourth-quarter 2026 has moved up 4.5% in the past 30 days. The same for the full-year 2026 EPS has moved up 4.7% in the past 30 days.
The consensus estimate for RLI’s 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates year-over-year decreases. The consensus estimate for RLI’s 2026 and 2027 revenues indicates year-over-year increases.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
RLI stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Western Midstream zvýšil upravený výhled na rok 2026: upravený EBITDA 2,75–2,95 mld. USD a volný cash flow 1,1–1,3 mld. USD. Tahounem byly rekordní výsledky za 2. čtvrtletí a první příspěvek Brazos Delaware.
Key Takeaways Western Midstream posted record second-quarter EBITDA of $736.5 million, up 19% year over year.Brazos lifted Delaware Basin gas throughput to a record 2,140 MMcf/d and added growth potential.Western Midstream raised 2026 EBITDA guidance to $2.75-$2.95 billion and free cash flow to $1.1-$1.3 billion. Western Midstream Partners, LP (WES - Free Report) raised its 2026 financial outlook after a second quarter that produced record adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), higher throughput and the first contribution from Brazos Delaware. The stronger results point to a higher earnings base as the acquired assets are integrated.
The question is whether that momentum can outweigh rising expenses, elevated capital spending and commodity-linked variability through the rest of the year.
WES Delivers Record Second-Quarter EBITDASecond-quarter adjusted EBITDA increased 19% to a quarterly record of $736.5 million. The performance reflected record Delaware Basin natural-gas and produced-water throughput, roughly two-and-a-half weeks of Brazos contribution and benefits from fixed-recovery processing contracts at higher commodity prices.
Revenues increased 30% to $1.22 billion from $942.3 million a year earlier. Earnings reached 99 cents per unit. Both revenues and earnings exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate, reinforcing the strength of the quarter.
WES Gets an Early Lift From Brazos DelawareThe June 2026 Brazos Delaware acquisition helped push Delaware Basin natural-gas throughput to a record 2,140 MMcf/d, up 5% sequentially. Brazos added about 460 MMcf/d of processing capacity and expanded WES' dedicated acreage in the basin to more than 1.4 million acres.
Management expects Brazos to contribute approximately $100 million of adjusted EBITDA in the second half of 2026. WES also sees $15-$20 million of potential cost synergies as it connects the Brazos system with its legacy network and reduces general, administrative, operating and maintenance costs.
WES Organic Projects Extend Its Growth RunwayWES is advancing two major organic projects that could support additional Delaware Basin growth into 2027. North Loving II is expected to add 300 MMcf/d of cryogenic processing capacity, lifting WES’ total Delaware Basin processing capacity to about 3.1 Bcf/d when it enters service in early second-quarter 2027. The Pathfinder Pipeline, expected online in the first quarter of 2027, is designed to transport roughly 800 MBbls/d of produced water and is supported by firm gathering, transportation and disposal commitments from Occidental. With Pathfinder’s project cost estimated at $300-$350 million, these investments add processing and water-handling capacity that can complement the earnings contribution from Brazos and support WES’ multi-year growth outlook.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
WES Raises Its 2026 Cash-Flow OutlookWES lifted its 2026 Adjusted EBITDA guidance to $2.75-$2.95 billion. The $2.85 billion midpoint is $250 million above the original outlook and represents a 15% increase from full-year 2025 Adjusted EBITDA.
Distributable cash flow guidance increased to $2.05-$2.25 billion, while free cash flow guidance rose to $1.1-$1.3 billion. Each midpoint increased by $200 million, reflecting Brazos, first-half commodity strength and higher expected customer activity in the Delaware and Powder River basins.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
WES Earnings Estimates Signal Continued GrowthThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for WES’ 2026 earnings is pegged at $3.58 per unit, implying 20.1% growth from $2.98 in 2025. For the third quarter, the consensus estimate stands at 87 cents per unit, unchanged from the year-ago period, while the most recent consensus is higher at 89 cents. Fourth-quarter earnings are expected at 86 cents per unit, up 83% from 47 cents a year earlier, with the most recent consensus also at 89 cents. The estimate range of 80-92 cents for the third quarter and 79-92 cents for the fourth quarter indicates some uncertainty around the pace of near-term earnings improvement. Looking into 2027, the Zacks Consensus Estimate calls for earnings of $3.79 per unit, representing another 6% increase from the 2026 estimate. These projections support the raised outlook while leaving execution, commodity conditions and Brazos integration as key factors in determining whether WES can sustain its earnings momentum.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
WES Still Faces Costs and Commodity RisksThe higher outlook comes with a heavier cost base. Second-quarter total operating expenses rose to $714.95 million from $524.06 million a year earlier, while operation and maintenance expense increased to $285.35 million from $224.63 million. WES also expects 2026 capital spending near the high end of its $850 million-$1 billion range.
Commodity-linked processing economics remain another variable. Negative Waha natural-gas pricing caused some customer curtailments during the quarter, although those curtailments had ended by quarter-end. Lower commodity prices could reduce fixed-recovery processing benefits, while delays or cost overruns on the Brazos integration, Pathfinder pipeline or North Loving II project could limit upside.
Permian activity is also attracting capital from peers. Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (EPD - Free Report) reported a 14% increase in Permian natural-gas processing inlet volumes in the second quarter. MPLX LP (MPLX - Free Report) is investing in Permian sour-gas treating and natural-gas and NGL infrastructure, underscoring continued competition for basin growth.
WES Momentum Supports the Raised OutlookWES' raised guidance is supported by record operating performance, early Brazos contributions and higher expected second-half customer activity. The main test is whether those gains can offset the larger expense base and sustain cash-flow growth as commodity conditions normalize.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks Rank #1 stocks here.
It has a Momentum Score of A. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings has moved 3.8% higher over the past four weeks, consistent with positive estimate revisions. A Growth Score of D and VGM Score of D temper that momentum, while a Value Score of C is more neutral. The mix favors near-term earnings momentum, but sustained fundamental improvement still depends on execution and cash-flow delivery.
Northern Oil and Gas ve 2. čtvrtletí vykázala upravený EPS 1,13 USD, nad odhady, ale meziročně klesl z 1,37 USD. Produkce vzrostla o 9 % na 145 659 Boe/d.
Key Takeaways Northern Oil and Gas posted Q2 adjusted EPS of $1.13, beating estimates despite a year-over-year decline.Production rose 9% to 145,659 Boe/d, led by a 35% increase in natural gas and NGL volumes.Northern Oil and Gas repurchased 2.95 million shares and raised its buyback authorization to $243 million. Northern Oil and Gas, Inc. (NOG - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings per share of $1.13, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.02. The outperformance reflects strong natural gas production. However, the bottom line declined from the year-ago adjusted profit of $1.37 due to weaker natural gas prices.
The Minnetonka, MN-based oil and gas exploration and production company reported oil and gas sales of $671 million, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $546 million. Moreover, the top line increased from the year-ago figure of $574 million, driven by higher oil price realization.
On June 1, the company closed the Duvernay Light Oil Joint Development for total consideration of $262.1 million. During the quarter, NOG completed 30 ground game transactions, adding over 2,300 net acres and an additional 6.2 net wells for $44.7 million, which was inclusive of associated development costs.
During the second quarter, Northern Oil and Gas repurchased 2.95 million shares of common stock at an average price of $20.37, including commissions and increased the share repurchase authorization program to about $243 million.
NOG’s Q2 Production DetailsThe second-quarter production increased 9% year over year to 145,659 barrels of oil equivalent per day (Boe/d). Additionally, the figure beat our estimate of 143,105 Boe/d.
While oil volume totaled 68,275 Bopd (an 11% decrease year over year), natural gas (and natural gas liquids) amounted to 464,330 thousand cubic feet per day (a 35% increase). Our model estimate for oil volume and natural gas production was pegged at 71,300 Bopd and 415,800 thousand cubic feet per day, respectively.
The average sales price for crude was $90.02 per barrel, indicating a 54% increase from the prior-year quarter’s level of $58.37. Moreover, the figure beat our expectation of $69.40 per barrel.
The average realized natural gas price was $2.64 per thousand cubic feet compared with $2.89 in the year-earlier period. Our model estimate for the same was pinned at $2.32 per thousand cubic feet.
NOG’s Costs & ExpensesTotal operating expenses in the quarter decreased to $392.7 million from $530.6 million in the year-ago period. This was mainly on account of a reduction in production expenses, legal settlement expense, depletion, depreciation, amortization and accretion expenses, impairment of oil and gas assets expenses, and other expenses. The metric was below our estimate of $400.1 million.
Capital Expenditures of NOGThe company reported capital expenditures of $195.8 million for the second quarter, excluding non-budgeted acquisitions and other unplanned items. Of this total, $151 million was dedicated to drilling and completion activities on organic assets, while $44.7 million was allocated to Ground Game efforts, including associated development costs.
During the second quarter, NOG placed 12.7 net wells into production.
NOG’s Financial PositionThis Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company’s free cash flow for the quarter totaled $159 million.
As of June 30, 2026, Northern Oil and Gas had $47.6 million in cash and cash equivalents. The company had a long-term debt of $2.7 billion, with a debt-to-capitalization of 57.7%.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Important Energy Earnings at a GlanceWhile we have discussed NOG’s second-quarter results in detail, let us take a look at three other key reports in the energy space.
U.S. energy operator APA Corporation (APA - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.89 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.85. The bottom line rose from the year-ago adjusted profit of 87 cents. The outperformance was primarily driven by higher realized oil prices and lower year-over-year expenses.
Revenues of $2.4 billion were down 8.2% from the year-ago quarter’s sales and missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.5%, caused by a decrease in natural gas revenues.
As of June 30, APA had $444 million in cash and cash equivalents and $3.7 billion in long-term debt, representing a debt-to-capitalization of 34.8%.
Magnolia Oil & Gas Corporation (MGY - Free Report) reported a second-quarter 2026 net profit of 99 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 90 cents. The bottom line more than doubled from the year-ago quarter’s 43 cents. This outperformance can be attributed to higher oil and NGL prices and growth in overall production volumes.
The oil and gas exploration and production company’s total revenues were $479 million, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $440 million. The top line also increased 50.2% from $319 million recorded in the year-ago period, driven by higher revenues from oil and natural gas liquids (NGL).
As of June 30, 2026, Magnolia had cash and cash equivalents of $295.9 million. The company had long-term debt of $393.6 million, reflecting a debt-to-capitalization of 15.5%.
Permian Resources Corporation (PR - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 69 cents per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 56 cents by 23.2%. The bottom line also increased significantly from the year-ago quarter’s adjusted earnings of 27 cents. This outperformance was primarily driven by higher oil and NGL price realizations.
The company’s oil and gas sales of $1.86 billion beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.64 billion by 13.3%. Revenues also increased from the year-ago quarter’s $1.2 billion, aided by a higher year-over-year contribution from oil sales, NGL sales and purchased gas sales during the quarter.
As of June 30, 2026, PR had $131.7 million in cash and cash equivalents. The company had a long-term debt of approximately $3 billion, reflecting a debt-to-capitalization of 20%.
Enterprise Products Partners se obchoduje na 11,07x EV/EBITDA, pod průměrem odvětví 11,29x. Zároveň má téměř 90 % dlouhodobých smluv s možností zvyšovat poplatky při inflaci.
Key Takeaways EPD trades at 11.07x EV/EBITDA, below the industry average and midstream peers.Nearly 90% of EPD's long-term contracts can raise fees during inflation, supporting cash flows.EPD has $6.5B in key projects ahead, but excess LPG export capacity could pressure fees. Enterprise Products Partners LP (EPD - Free Report) is trading at a trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA multiple of 11.07x, which is lower than the broader industry average of 11.29x. Enbridge Inc. (ENB - Free Report) and Kinder Morgan Inc. (KMI - Free Report) , two other midstream majors, are valued higher at 15.48x and 13.98x, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Since EPD is undervalued, should investors buy the stock immediately? Before deciding, it’s better to analyze EPD’s overall business environment, even though the partnership generates stable fee-based revenues like ENB and KMI.
EPD’s Inflation-Resilient Contracts & Growth ProjectsEnterprise Products' pipeline network spans more than 50,000 miles, transporting oil, natural gas and other commodities. The partnership also has more than 300 million barrels of liquid storage capacity, generating stable cash flows. Importantly, EPD’s business model is inflation-protected because almost 90% of its long-term contracts include a provision for increasing fees when the business environment becomes inflationary. This is how the midstream energy player is able to safeguard its cash flow generation in all business scenarios.
EPD is also expected to generate incremental cash flow from its $6.5 billion in key capital projects, which are yet to come online.
Image Source: Enterprise Products Partners LP
EPD’s Attractive Capital Return FrameworkDue to the resilience of its business model, the partnership has been able to return capital to unitholders on an ongoing basis. Since its IPO, Enterprise Products has returned $65 billion to unitholders through both repurchases and distributions. EPD has increased distributions for 28 consecutive years. Thus, the partnership has become successful in keeping cash flow steady across all business cycles.
Is Now the Right Time to Invest in the Stock?Following the positive developments, EPD has risen 24.1% over the past year, marginally underperforming the industry’s 24.8%. Over the same time frame, Enbridge and Kinder Morgan have gained 9.1% and 25.1%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
On the flip side, the partnership, on its latest earnings call, noted that too much LPG export capacity may come online before demand catches up, which could push export fees lower. However, EPD is partly protected because about 90% of its LPG export capacity is already contracted.
Thus, despite being undervalued and with all the positive developments in place, it is wise not to bet on EPD right away. But those who have already invested can retain the stock, which currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Zakladatel BitMart Sheldon Lee tvrdí, že napadený účet šířil falešná tvrzení o zmrazených fondech. Uživatelé ale dál žádají zveřejnění peněženek, aktiv a závazků.
The pressure on BitMart is shifting from a narrow social media dispute to a test of how centralized exchanges handle demands for basic financial disclosure.
At the center of the disagreement is a Chinese-language X account that, according to the original report, made claims about blocked funds and unpaid employees. BitMart founder Sheldon Lee responded by saying the account was hacked. Users, however, are not satisfied with that explanation. They are asking the exchange to disclose wallets, assets, and liabilities.
The difference between those two positions is significant. A hacked account can explain why a particular claim spread online. It cannot, on its own, show whether customer funds are unencumbered or whether the exchange is solvent.
What the hacked-account response leaves unanswered Lee’s statement appears aimed at stopping the spread of information rather than answering the substantive demand. That is a familiar pattern in centralized exchange disputes: address the messenger, not the message. The problem is that the message here is not a single accusation. It is a request for information that would make the exchange’s position verifiable.
If BitMart disclosed wallet addresses and a liability breakdown, the market could check whether the platform holds enough to cover customer balances. Until that happens, the exchange is asking users to trust its word while leaving the actual ledger closed.
Proof of reserves has a blind spot After the collapse of FTX, many exchanges rushed to publish proof-of-reserves or third-party attestations. But proof of reserves is typically only one side of the balance sheet. It can confirm that assets exist in certain wallets, yet it often says little about liabilities, the use of customer funds, or whether those assets can be accessed when users withdraw.
That blind spot is particularly relevant for BitMart, which has operated across multiple jurisdictions and maintained a broad retail user base. For traders, the practical question is not whether a social account was compromised, but whether their balances are fully backed and redeemable on demand.
The exchange has not publicly committed to publishing a full asset and liability reconciliation. That leaves users reliant on the same kind of partial information that has caused problems at other venues in previous cycles.
Information asymmetry is the real risk Centralized exchanges hold customer funds and control the data about those funds. Users can see their own balances, but they cannot see how the exchange manages them. That imbalance becomes acute when rumors or withdrawals start. Even if a rumor is false, the absence of clear disclosure can make it harder for an exchange to restore confidence.
In this case, the source of the claims may be compromised, but the demand for disclosure is separate. BitMart could address the underlying issue by publishing verifiable wallet addresses and a liability snapshot. The market has seen repeated examples where platforms resisted that step until liquidity problems became unmanageable.
The wider market context The regulatory environment adds another layer. In Washington, the banking sector is trying to reshape a major crypto market bill just days before a Senate vote, a fight covered in BlockchainReporter’s reporting on the Senate fight. That legislative process could eventually create clearer standards for how platforms report reserves and customer assets, but it offers no immediate remedy for BitMart users.
At the same time, institutional crypto markets continue to move toward tokenized real-world assets and live settlement, as tracked in the latest tokenization roundup. That institutional progress does not automatically translate into better custody disclosure at retail-facing exchanges.
Network-level activity also remains strong. Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Polygon still lead developer activity, according to BlockchainReporter’s developer activity ranking. But active developer ecosystems do not protect users from centralized custody risks.
For BitMart, the unresolved question is simple: can users verify what the exchange holds and what it owes? Until the company publishes that information, a hacked-account explanation will not close the trust gap.
AUTHOR
Tokoni Uti is a Lagos-based writer with several years of experience. Her work has appeared in the Huffington Post, the Los Angeles Free Press and the San Diego Free press among others. She is a graduate of Bowen University.
Natera podporuje studii fáze 1 Kupando u pokročilých kožních nádorů v Německu a její test Latitude bude sledovat ctDNA v několika časových bodech. Cílem je vyhodnotit molekulární odpověď na léčbu KUP-101.
Key Takeaways Natera is supporting Kupando's Phase 1 skin cancer trial with its Latitude tissue-free MRD test.Latitude will track ctDNA at multiple timepoints to assess molecular response to KUP-101 treatment.The trial will enroll patients with advanced skin cancers at activated clinical sites in Germany. Natera (NTRA - Free Report) recently announced a collaboration with Kupando Therapeutics to support a Phase 1 clinical trial evaluating circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) dynamics in patients with advanced skin cancers. The collaboration will use Natera’s Latitude tissue-free molecular residual disease (MRD) test to monitor treatment response to KUP-101, Kupando’s investigational immunotherapy targeting innate immune activation.
Management stated that Natera is pleased to support Kupando’s development of its first-in-class approach to innate immune activation. Latitude’s ability to evaluate ctDNA dynamics across diverse solid tumors can provide molecular insights into treatment response, potentially supporting the clinical development of KUP-101 in difficult-to-treat cancers.
Likely Trend of NTRA Stock Following the NewsShares of NTRA have declined 1.9% since the announcement on Wednesday. Year to date, shares of the company have gained 35.3% compared with the industry’s 0.6% growth and the S&P 500’s 13.2% rise.
The collaboration with Kupando Therapeutics could positively impact Natera by expanding the use of its Latitude MRD testing in early-stage clinical research. Incorporating Latitude into a Phase I trial provides an opportunity to demonstrate the assay’s ability to track ctDNA dynamics across multiple advanced skin cancers and potentially broader solid tumor types. Successful results could strengthen Natera’s position in the growing MRD and precision oncology market, support additional biopharma partnerships, and increase adoption of its testing platform in clinical trials.
NTRA currently has a market capitalization of $44.67 billion.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
More on the NewsThe collaboration follows the successful dosing of the first patient in Kupando’s Phase 1 trial. Following the initial dosing, Kupando’s safety committee approved continued enrollment across activated clinical sites, including leading oncology centers in Germany. The trial will generate serial molecular data to help characterize patient response to KUP-101 during treatment.
Under the collaboration, Latitude testing will be conducted at multiple timepoints during the trial to evaluate changes in ctDNA following KUP-101 treatment. The study is being conducted at activated clinical sites in Germany and will enroll patients with advanced tumors across multiple skin cancer types.
KUP-101 is designed to activate the innate immune system and induce trained immunity, offering a potentially tissue-agnostic approach across several solid tumor types. The investigational therapy is being evaluated both as a standalone treatment and in combination with other agents. By incorporating Latitude MRD testing into the trial, Kupando aims to better characterize the molecular activity of KUP-101 and generate data that may inform future clinical development.
Industry Prospects Favoring the MarketGoing by the data provided by Precedence Research, the minimal residual disease testing market was valued at $1.70 billion in 2025 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 12% through 2034.
Factors like the demand for highly sensitive technologies like next-generation sequencing and digital PCR, which accurately detect minimal residual cancer cells to guide treatment decisions and predict patient outcomes, are boosting the market’s growth.
Other NewsNatera announced that its MRD test, Signatera, received certification as a Class C device under the European Union’s In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR) for use across multiple types of cancer. Signatera is certified to be used in adjuvant and surveillance settings across a broad range of cancers, including gastrointestinal, genitourinary, breast, skin, gynecological, head and neck, non-small cell lung cancer, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphomas and pan-cancer immunotherapy monitoring.
Natera partnered with Aveta Biomics to support AVTA 30-01, a global Phase 3 registrational trial of its oral immunotherapy, APG-157, in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Natera’s Signatera test will be integrated into the AVTA 30-01 Phase 3 study to assess MRD and treatment response during neoadjuvant, induction, adjuvant and follow-up care.
Natera partnered with Eledon Pharmaceuticals to integrate its Prospera kidney transplant assessment test into Eledon’s planned Phase 3 clinical trial of tegoprubart, an investigational therapy designed to prevent organ rejection in kidney transplantation.
NTRA’s Zacks Rank & Key PicksNatera currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks from the broader medical space are Globus Medical (GMED - Free Report) , West Pharmaceutical (WST - Free Report) and The Cooper Companies (COO - Free Report) .
Globus Medical, currently sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), reported a second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.34, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 19.6%. Revenues of $789.6 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.4%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
GMED has an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 12.4%. The company’s earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 27.9%.
West Pharmaceutical, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present, reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted EPS of $2.37, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 13.9%. Revenues of $872.3 million surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4.2%.
WST has an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 16%. WST’s earnings surpassed estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 17.4%.
The Cooper Companies, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 at present, reported a second-quarter fiscal 2026 adjusted EPS of $1.21, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 10%. Revenues of $1.08 billion beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.6%.
COO has an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 8.3%. COO’s earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 5.8%.
NEW YORK & NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Former Attorney General of Louisiana Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq. and the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC (“KSF”) are investigating the proposed sale of Arcosa, Inc. (NYSE: ACA) to CRH (NYSE: CRH). Under the terms of the proposed transaction, shareholders of Arcosa will receive $150.00 in cash for each share of Arcosa that they own. KSF is seeking to determine whether this consideration and the process that led to it are adequate, or whether the consideration undervalues the Company.
If you believe that this transaction undervalues the Company and/or if you would like to discuss your legal rights regarding the proposed sale, you may, without obligation or cost to you, e-mail or call KSF Managing Partner Lewis S. Kahn ([email protected]) toll free at any time at 833-538-3612, or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-aca/ to learn more.
To learn more about KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General, visit www.ksfcounsel.com.
Helmerich & Payne ve 3. fiskálním čtvrtletí 2026 vykázal upravenou ztrátu 11 centů na akcii, zatímco tržby dosáhly 1 miliardy USD a překonaly odhady. Tržby v Severní Americe klesly meziročně o 5 %, zatímco offshore vzrostly o 7,8 %.
Key Takeaways Helmerich & Payne posted an adjusted Q3 loss of 11 cents per share as revenues reached $1 billion.North America Solutions revenues fell 5% year over year, while Offshore Solutions revenues rose 7.8%.HP expects Q4 North America direct margin of $245M-$255M, supported by 145-151 average active rigs. Helmerich & Payne, Inc. (HP - Free Report) reported a third-quarter fiscal 2026 adjusted net loss of 11 cents per share, in sharp contrast with the Zacks Consensus Estimate of adjusted net income of 11 cents. Moreover, the bottom line decreased considerably from the year-ago quarter’s reported profit of 22 cents. This was primarily due to an adjustment made for a gain of $115 million related to the sale of Utica Square and lower-than-expected performance of the company's North America Solutions segment.
Operating revenues of $1 billion beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $988 million. Sales from Drilling Services beat the consensus mark by 4.4%. However, the figure decreased by $6 million from the year-ago quarter’s level. This was primarily caused by lower year-over-year revenues from the North America Solutions and International Solutions segments.
The company distributed approximately $25 million to its shareholders as part of its ongoing dividend program.
HP’s Q3 Segmental PerformanceNorth America Solutions: Operating revenues of $562.9 million were down 5% year over year, with 142 average active rigs. The top line beat our model projection of $546.1 million.
Operating profit totaled $140.3 million compared with $157.6 million in the prior-year period. The reported figure also beat our model estimate of $113.1 million.
International Solutions: Operating revenues of $250.1 million decreased 5.9% from the year-ago quarter’s level of $265.8 million. However, the top line beat our projection of $234.9 million.
Operating loss reached $54.4 million, compared with the prior-year period loss of $166.5 million. The figure was below our projected loss of $93 million.
Offshore Solutions: Revenues of $174.4 million increased 7.8% from the year-ago quarter’s level of $161.8 million. The top line beat our projection of $157.5 million.
Operating profit totaled $16.8 million compared with $8.8 million in the year-ago quarter. The figure beat our estimate of $11 million.
HP’s Financial Position
As of June 30, 2026, this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company spent $200.2 million on capital programs. HP had $204.4 million in cash and cash equivalents, while the long-term debt totaled $1.8 billion (debt-to-capitalization of 41%).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
HP’s Guidance for Q4 & FY26Helmerich & Payne’s fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 outlook points to continued strength in North America, more variable international performance and stable offshore operations. For North America Solutions, the company expects direct margin of $245 million to $255 million, with an average of 145 to 151 active rigs, compared with a fiscal-year average rig range of 140 to 144. International Solutions is expected to generate direct margin of $25 million to $45 million on 60 to 70 average rigs, compared with a fiscal-year average rig range of 60 to 66. Offshore Solutions is projected to deliver direct margin of $26 million to $30 million in the fiscal fourth quarter, while full-year direct margin is expected at $113 million to $117 million, supported by 30 to 35 average rigs/management contracts. The “Other” segment is expected to contribute up to $5 million of direct margin.
For the full fiscal 2026, HP expects gross capital expenditures of $270 million to $310 million, depreciation of approximately $700 million, research and development expense of about $28 million, Selling, general & administrative expenses of $265 million to $285 million, cash taxes of $150 million to $180 million, and interest expense of roughly $100 million. Overall, the outlook implies a relatively constructive finish to fiscal 2026, led by higher North American activity and margins.
Important Earnings at a GlanceWhile we have discussed HP’s fiscal third-quarter results in detail, let us take a look at three other key reports in this space.
U.S. energy operator APA Corporation (APA - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.89 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.85. The bottom line rose from the year-ago adjusted profit of 87 cents. The outperformance was primarily driven by higher realized oil prices and lower year-over-year expenses.
Revenues of $2.4 billion were down 8.2% from the year-ago quarter’s sales and missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.5%, caused by a decrease in natural gas revenues.
As of June 30, APA had $444 million in cash and cash equivalents and $3.7 billion in long-term debt, representing a debt-to-capitalization of 34.8%.
Magnolia Oil & Gas Corporation (MGY - Free Report) reported a second-quarter 2026 net profit of 99 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 90 cents. The bottom line more than doubled from the year-ago quarter’s 43 cents. This outperformance can be attributed to higher oil and NGL prices and growth in overall production volumes.
The oil and gas exploration and production company’s total revenues were $479 million, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $440 million. The top line also increased 50.2% from $319 million recorded in the year-ago period, driven by higher revenues from oil and natural gas liquids (NGL).
As of June 30, 2026, Magnolia had cash and cash equivalents of $295.9 million. The company had long-term debt of $393.6 million, reflecting a debt-to-capitalization of 15.5%.
Permian Resources Corporation (PR - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 69 cents per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 56 cents by 23.2%. The bottom line also increased significantly from the year-ago quarter’s adjusted earnings of 27 cents. This outperformance was primarily driven by higher oil and NGL price realizations.
The company’s oil and gas sales of $1.86 billion beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.64 billion by 13.3%. Revenues also increased from the year-ago quarter’s $1.2 billion, aided by a higher year-over-year contribution from oil sales, NGL sales and purchased gas sales during the quarter.
As of June 30, 2026, PR had $131.7 million in cash and cash equivalents. The company had a long-term debt of approximately $3 billion, reflecting a debt-to-capitalization of 20%.
Tenet Healthcare ve 2. čtvrtletí zvýšil hospital adjusted EBITDA o 22,3 % na 762 mil. USD a marži na 18 % z 15,6 %. Firma čeká pro rok 2026 hospital adjusted EBITDA ve výši 2,67–2,81 mld. USD.
Key Takeaways Tenet Healthcare's hospital adjusted admissions rose 2.6%, while revenue per admission increased 3.3%.Hospital adjusted EBITDA jumped 22.3% to $762 million, lifting the margin to 18% from 15.6%.Management expects $2.67-$2.81 billion in 2026 Hospital adjusted EBITDA despite exchange revenue pressure. Tenet Healthcare Corporation’s (THC - Free Report) second-quarter 2026 results show why its Hospital Operations segment remains an important earnings driver. Despite pressure from weaker exchange enrollment, the segment delivered stronger volumes, better revenue per patient and meaningful margin improvement, giving investors a reason to remain optimistic about the earnings outlook.
Hospital adjusted admissions increased 2.6% year over year, while revenue per adjusted admission rose 3.3%. This combination is encouraging because THC is benefiting from both healthy patient demand and a better mix of services. The improvement in revenue per admission reflects its focus on higher-acuity care, while stronger commercial revenues are helping support top-line growth.
The hospital segment is translating this momentum into stronger profitability. Hospital adjusted EBITDA jumped 22.3% to $762 million, significantly faster than revenue growth, while the margin expanded to 18% from 15.6% a year ago. This suggests its cost-management efforts are helping convert operational growth into stronger profits.
However, exchange weakness remains a caution. Exchange revenues fell 17% in the second quarter of 2026 and are expected to remain under pressure. Still, continued volume growth, better acuity and cost discipline should help offset some of that weakness. The company’s $2.67-$2.81 billion 2026 Hospital adjusted EBITDA guidance signals confidence in continued underlying improvement, positioning the segment as a potential near-term tailwind for THC’s earnings.
Peer PerformanceTenet is not the only one benefiting from healthy demand for hospital care. Healthcare peers, including Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS - Free Report) and HCA Healthcare, Inc. (HCA - Free Report) , also reported solid hospital volume and revenue growth in the second quarter of 2026.
Universal Health delivered strong hospital performance, with acute-care adjusted admissions rising 2.9%. UHS’ net revenue per adjusted admission increased 3.0%, while same-facility acute-care revenues grew 8.2%, reflecting continued strength across its hospital operations.
HCA Healthcare posted solid hospital growth in the second quarter of 2026, with same-facility equivalent admissions increasing 2.7%. HCA’s revenue per equivalent admission also rose 6.4%, pointing to healthy demand and a favorable patient mix.
THC’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Tenet Healthcare have gained 56.4% over the past year compared with the industry's 28% growth over the same period.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, THC trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 13.43X, up from the industry average of 11.28X. THC carries a Value Scoreof A.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for THC’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $20.16 per share, implying a 20.1% jump from the year-ago period’s level.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
THC currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Cirrus Logic vykázala rekordní 1Q: upravený zisk na akcii (EPS) vzrostl o 21,9 % a tržby o 12,9 % na zhruba 460 milionů USD. Výhled na 2Q ale počítá s tržbami 510–570 milionů USD, tedy se středem výhledu 540 milionů USD, což implikuje meziroční pokles o 4 %.
Key Takeaways Cirrus Logic posted record Q1 results, with adjusted EPS up 21.9% and revenues rising 12.9%.HPMS revenues climbed to $210.7 million, or 46% of sales, as new camera, power and battery products advance.Q2's $540 million revenue midpoint implies a 4% yearly decline as spending rises and PC growth is delayed. Cirrus Logic, Inc. (CRUS - Free Report) delivered record fiscal first-quarter results, but its next-quarter outlook makes the post-earnings picture less straightforward. Smartphone demand and high-performance mixed-signal momentum remain supportive.
The counterweight is a fiscal second-quarter revenue midpoint that implies a year-over-year decline, alongside higher operating expenses and delayed PC growth. Investors must weigh those pressures against an expanding product pipeline.
Cirrus Logic's Q1 Beat Sets a High BarFiscal first-quarter adjusted earnings reached $1.84 per share, up 21.9% year over year and above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.45. Revenues increased 12.9% to about $460 million, supported by higher smartphone component sales.
Demand remained strong for custom boosted amplifiers and smart codecs. Cirrus expects those products to ship across multiple future smartphone generations, supporting its core audio business while research and development resources move toward newer applications.
CRUS HPMS Growth Broadens the Smartphone StoryHigh-Performance Mixed-Signal revenues climbed to $210.7 million from $167.2 million a year earlier and represented 46% of quarterly sales. Development remains active across a next-generation camera controller, a smart power integrated circuit for 3D sensing and additional battery and power products.
Texas Instruments Incorporated (TXN - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 revenue growth of 23%, led by industrial, data center and automotive demand. Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI - Free Report) posted 37% fiscal second-quarter revenue growth across all end markets. Those results provide broader mixed-signal demand context as Cirrus works to expand beyond its mobile concentration.
Cirrus Logic's Q2 Outlook Turns MixedFor the fiscal second quarter, Cirrus expects revenues of $510-$570 million. The $540 million midpoint implies 17% sequential growth but a 4% year-over-year decline, creating a tougher comparison after the June-quarter performance.
The outlook will test whether higher smartphone content and newer products can produce sustained growth beyond seasonal improvement. Weaker fiscal 2027 PC expectations also reduce one near-term diversification driver.
CRUS Spending and Wafer Benefits Shape MarginsGAAP gross margin is projected at 52%-54%. The range includes a temporary benefit from favorably priced wafers purchased under prior agreements with GlobalFoundries, with that tranche expected to largely sell through during the quarter.
Non-GAAP operating expenses are expected at $140-$146 million, up from $135.4 million in the first quarter. Full-year operating expenses are also expected to rise as Cirrus increases research and development investment.
Cirrus Logic's PC Delays Shift Growth to 2027Management lowered fiscal 2027 PC revenue expectations because of constrained supply of a key industry platform, memory and component shortages and delayed model introductions. The company characterized those issues as timing-related rather than a change in the underlying opportunity.
Customer interest in Cirrus' low-power smart codec for AI-enabled PCs remained strong, with multiple designs targeted for calendar 2027. Several customers also announced PCs based on NVIDIA's RTX Spark platform that are expected to ship later in 2026 with Cirrus amplifiers and codecs.
CRUS Signals Temper the Post-Earnings ReadThe earnings beat and HPMS expansion support the longer-term product story, but the fiscal second-quarter year-over-year decline, higher spending and delayed PC growth keep the near-term setup cautious. New content will need to translate into steadier growth.
CRUS currently carries a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). It has a Growth Score of B, Momentum Score of B and VGM Score of B, while its Value Score is C. The B scores indicate favorable characteristics in several styles, but Style Scores complement the Zacks Rank. With the Rank at #5, the near-term signal remains unfavorable despite the strong first-quarter results. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Sterling Infrastructure zvýšila podepsaný backlog o 116 % na 4,3 miliardy USD a očekává, že tržby segmentu E-Infrastructure v roce 2026 vzrostou o více než 100 %.
Key Takeaways Sterling's signed backlog jumped 116% to $4.3 billion, while combined backlog rose 150%.More than 92% of E-Infrastructure backlog is tied to mission-critical data centers and semiconductor projects.Sterling expects E-Infrastructure revenues to grow more than 100% in 2026. Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL - Free Report) has built a larger base of contracted work as demand for data centers, semiconductor facilities and other mission-critical infrastructure remains strong. The expanding backlog could provide support for revenue growth while giving Sterling greater exposure to infrastructure markets with strong demand.
At June 30, 2026, signed backlog increased 116% year over year to $4.3 billion, while combined backlog rose 150% to $5.6 billion. The second-quarter book-to-burn ratio was 1.4x for signed backlog and 1.3x for combined backlog. Sterling also had more than $1.4 billion in high-probability future-phase opportunities. Combined with signed backlog and unsigned awards, the total addressable pool of work exceeded $7 billion.
The composition of this backlog adds to its growth potential. More than 92% of E-Infrastructure signed backlog was tied to mission-critical projects, including data centers, manufacturing facilities and semiconductor campuses. Data center projects are becoming larger, lasting longer and expanding into additional markets. Existing projects are also gaining new phases as customers expand properties, creating potential work beyond current backlog figures. Some projects could extend for five to eight years or longer.
Sterling expects E-Infrastructure revenues to rise more than 100% in 2026, while the legacy site development business is expected to grow around 70% or higher. A larger contracted work base, combined with future-phase opportunities, gives Sterling a solid foundation to convert infrastructure demand into revenues as capacity expands.
Sterling and Its Key Infrastructure CompetitorsSterling competes closely with MasTec, Inc. (MTZ - Free Report) and Quanta Services (PWR - Free Report) across electrical, mechanical and infrastructure construction. Both companies maintain sizable order books, providing visibility into future revenues and reflecting strong demand across key end markets.
MasTec reported a record backlog of $21.4 billion in the second quarter, up 30% year over year and 5% sequentially. The company recorded a book-to-bill ratio of 1.2x, led by Pipeline Infrastructure and Clean Energy & Infrastructure. Power Delivery, Pipeline Infrastructure and Clean Energy & Infrastructure benefited from demand for grid modernization, power generation, renewables, natural gas and data centers. Clean Energy & Infrastructure revenues increased 43%, while segment backlog rose $500 million sequentially with a 1.3x book-to-bill ratio.
Quanta reported a record backlog of approximately $53.4 billion in the second quarter, up about 49% year over year from $35.8 billion. The backlog reflects demand across utility, generation and technology load center markets. Larger programs and multiyear commitments are also emerging across these markets, which could support revenues over an extended period. Recent acquisitions have added capabilities in electrical, mechanical, civil and fabrication services, further expanding the company’s addressable market.
Sterling, MasTec and Quanta offer strong revenue visibility through sizable order books. STRL benefits from demand across data centers and other mission-critical infrastructure, while MasTec has diversified exposure to power, renewables and data centers. Quanta’s backlog is supported by utility, generation and technology load center projects.
STRL Stock’s Price Performance & Valuation TrendShares of this Texas-based infrastructure services provider climbed 40.4% in the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Engineering - R and D Services industry, the broader Construction sector and the S&P 500 Index.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
STRL stock is currently trading at a discount compared with its industry peers, with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 24.36, as shown in the chart below.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Earnings Estimate Revision for STRLSTRL’s earnings estimates for 2026 and 2027 have moved upward in the past 30 days to $20.03 and $25.83 per share, respectively. The estimated figures for 2026 and 2027 imply year-over-year growth of 84.1% and 29%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Sterling currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
UMB Financial, Hancock Whitney a East West Bancorp v pátek vystoupily na nová 52týdenní maxima. UMBF těžil z růstu úvěrů, vkladů a poplatkových výnosů, EWBC zvýšil výhled růstu čistého úrokového výnosu (NII) na 7–9 % pro rok 2026.
Key Takeaways UMB Financial hit a new high as loan, deposit and fee-income growth support its expansion.Hancock Whitney's growth strategy targets Florida and Texas while supporting modest NIM expansion.East West Bancorp raised its 2026 NII growth outlook to 7-9% amid robust loan growth. Investors often view a fresh 52-week high as a sign of strong price momentum. When a stock reaches a new yearly peak, it can indicate sustained investor confidence and attract additional market participants looking to capitalize on the upward trend.
U.S. bank stocks have been gaining momentum amid an increasingly supportive macroeconomic backdrop, helping UMB Financial Corporation (UMBF - Free Report) , Hancock Whitney Corporation (HWC - Free Report) and East West Bancorp, Inc. (EWBC - Free Report) hit fresh 52-week highs on Friday.
What Cheered Investors?The rally reflects a combination of company-specific strength and improving sentiment toward the broader economy. Recent inflation data have offered some reassurance on the price front. The Consumer Price Index rose just 0.1% in July, whereas annual inflation moderated to 3.4% from 3.5% in June. The easing in underlying inflationary pressures has helped temper concerns about another near-term rate hike.
Meanwhile, the broader economy continues to expand. The U.S. real GDP grew at an annualized rate of 1.5% in the second quarter of 2026, following 2.1% growth in the first quarter, with consumer spending and investment contributing to the expansion. Continued economic growth is generally conducive to healthy loan demand and credit performance, providing another supportive backdrop for lenders.
At its July meeting, the Federal Reserve kept the interest rate steady at 3.50-3.75%, noting that economic activity continued to expand at a solid pace even as inflation remained above its 2% objective. Against this backdrop, moderating inflation, coupled with continued economic growth, has strengthened expectations that policymakers can afford to keep rates steady rather than tighten monetary policy further.
Despite the softer inflation data, longer-term Treasury yields remain elevated. This, alongside relatively stable short-term policy rates, can support asset yields and provide opportunities for banks to improve spreads as funding costs stabilize or reprice more slowly. This, in turn, could offer support to net interest income (NIM) and margins, although the impacts will vary depending on individual banks' balance-sheet and deposit mixes. Together, easing underlying inflation, a steady Fed policy stance, elevated longer-term rates and continued economic expansion have helped improve investor sentiment toward the banking sector.
Against such a constructive industry backdrop, banks like UMBF, HWC and EWBC are worth keeping on the radar. Each of the three stocks has gained more than 30% over the past year.
Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
With these stocks trading at fresh 52-week highs, the key question is whether they still have room to run. Let us take a closer look at their fundamentals and growth prospects.
UMBF, HWC & EWBC in FocusUMBF Financial provides banking services and asset servicing in the United States. Its banking subsidiary — UMB Bank, National Association — offers banking, asset management, trust, credit card and cash-management services to commercial, retail, government and correspondent-bank customers.
The company continues to benefit from revenue strength, aided by rising loan and deposit balances, along with diversified fee income. In January 2025, the Heartland Financial USA acquisition added $9.8 billion in loans and $14.3 billion in deposits. Management noted that loan and deposit pipelines remain broad-based across markets, which, along with continued realization of integration synergies, is expected to support balance sheet growth going forward. Stabilizing funding costs and healthy loan demand are expected to support net interest income expansion.
UMB Financial has been shifting its business mix toward fee-based revenues to reduce its dependence on spread income. Management noted that pipelines remain active across fund services, corporate trust and private wealth, which is expected to support continued growth in fee-based income.
UMBF enjoys a solid liquidity position. Its cash and interest-bearing due from banks is $6.4 billion and debt (comprising short-term and long-term debt) is $4.1 billion.
At present, UMBF Financial carries a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold). The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings indicates growth of 16.4% and 4.6% for 2026 and 2027, respectively. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Earnings Estimates
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UMBF hit a 52-week high, touching $152.48 before closing the session at $152.04 on Friday.
Hancock Whitney is a bank and financial holding company. It operates through 182 full-service bank branches and 226 automated teller machines across Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Florida and Texas.
HWC remains focused on a multi-year strategy that combines organic investment with targeted acquisitions. The company’s organic plan includes adding revenue-generating associates (already hired 42 net new bankers in the first half of 2026 against a full-year goal of 50) and expanding in Florida and Texas. In May, the company agreed to acquire OFB Bancshares, Inc., broadening its presence in Orlando, Jacksonville and the Florida Panhandle. Hancock Whitney plans to combine OFB’s local relationships with its broader platform and expanded private banking and fee-income capabilities, supported by the 2025 Sabal Trust acquisition. These initiatives should support sustained revenue growth and deepen full-relationship banking across higher-growth markets.
Higher securities yields, asset repricing and the acquired deposit base should help the company’s NIM, although the benefit from lower rates on maturing certificates of deposit is expected to diminish. Assuming a flat-rate environment, management expects modest NIM expansion in the second half of 2026.
HWC maintains a decent liquidity profile. As of June 30, 2026, Hancock Whitney had total debt of $1.76 billion (most of which consisted of short-term borrowings). At the end of the second quarter of 2026, the company had $29.6 billion in deposits, with non-interest-bearing balances representing 35% of the total deposits, while brokered deposits were at zero.
At present, HWC carries a Zacks Rank of 3. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings indicates growth of 12.6% and 12.3% for 2026 and 2027, respectively.
Earnings Estimates
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Hancock Whitney hit a 52-week high, touching $80.13 before closing the session at $79.78 on Friday.
East West Bancorp is the bank holding company for East West Bank. Incorporated in 1998, the company serves as a financial bridge between the United States and China by providing various consumer and commercial banking services to the Asian-American community.
East West Bancorp is focused on its organic growth strategy. Supported by continued loan growth and deposit repricing, the company’s NII is expected to continue to improve. Down-rate protection hedge programs, rising interest-earning assets and a continued focus on acquiring low-cost deposits are expected to offer support. Robust loan growth and hedge programs are expected to aid East West Bancorp’s revenues. Assuming flat rates, management has raised its NII outlook to 7-9% year-over-year growth in 2026 (up from the prior stated 6-8% rally). The company expects period-end loans to increase 6-8% this year.
East West Bancorp’s non-interest income has been consistently improving over the past few years. As management expects steady growth in deposits and loans through sustained client acquisition, the company’s fee income is likely to get a boost via deposit account fees and lending fees.
The company has a solid balance sheet position. As of June 30, 2026, it had total debt (comprising Federal Home Loan Bank advances and long-term debt and finance lease liabilities) of $3.03 billion, while cash and cash equivalents were $5.10 billion.
At present, EWBC carries a Zacks Rank of 3. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings indicates growth of 11.8% and 6.5% for 2026 and 2027, respectively.
Earnings Estimates
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EWBC hit a 52-week high, touching $137.31 before closing the session at $136.60 on Friday.
SoundHound ve 2. čtvrtletí zvýšil tržby o 45 % na rekordních 61,9 mil. USD a zúžil non-GAAP čistou ztrátu na 9 mil. USD z 11,9 mil. USD. Zároveň zvedl výhled tržeb pro rok 2026 na 230–260 mil. USD.
Key Takeaways SoundHound posted record Q2 revenues of $61.9M, up 45%, while non-GAAP net loss narrowed 24%.OASYS sped pilot-to-deployment conversions, including an eight-figure commitment in under 90 days.SoundHound had $203M in cash, no debt and raised 2026 revenue guidance to $230M-$260M. SoundHound AI, Inc. (SOUN - Free Report) showed progress toward profitable growth in second-quarter 2026 as strong revenue gains were accompanied by improving margins and narrower losses. Revenues jumped 45% year over year to a record $61.9 million, while non-GAAP net loss narrowed 24% to $9 million from $11.9 million. Non-GAAP loss per share improved to 2 cents from 3 cents.
The improvement reflects both operating momentum and cost discipline. Adjusted EBITDA loss narrowed 33% year over year to $9.6 million. GAAP gross margin expanded 610 basis points to 45.1%, although non-GAAP gross margin remained unchanged at 58.4%.
OASYS is central to SoundHound’s path toward scale. The agentic AI platform is helping convert pilots into large implementations faster, including an eight-figure commitment signed less than 90 days after the initial demo. Management continued investing in growth while maintaining spending discipline.
SoundHound is also moving more workloads onto its proprietary technology. Its SMB customers are now entirely on the company’s own model stack. Management expects its Polaris speech model, specialized LLMs and speech synthesis technology to improve quality while lowering costs and supporting higher margins over time.
Still, profitability has not arrived. SoundHound used nearly $60 million in operating cash during the first half of 2026, up from $43.7 million a year earlier. Yet, with $203 million in cash, no debt and 2026 revenue guidance raised to $230-$260 million, stronger scale and cost efficiencies provide a clearer path toward profitable growth.
SoundHound Faces Profitable AI RivalsSoundHound competes with Five9 (FIVN - Free Report) and NICE (NICE - Free Report) in conversational AI, customer engagement and AI-powered contact-center automation. Both provide important profitability benchmarks as SoundHound works to turn rapid revenue growth into sustainable earnings.
Five9’s second-quarter 2026 revenues increased 10% year over year to $312.4 million, while adjusted EBITDA reached $70.1 million, representing a 22.4% margin. Five9 generated $42.1 million in operating cash flow and posted non-GAAP net income of $53.5 million. Subscription revenues grew 14%, while management noted that AI revenues accelerated even faster.
NICE generated second-quarter 2026 revenues of $782.3 million, up 7.6%, while cloud revenues advanced 12.6% to $609 million. NICE delivered non-GAAP operating income of $198 million, a 25.3% margin, and $122.7 million in operating cash flow. Its AI and self-service ARR surged 52% to $362 million.
Against these profitable rivals, SoundHound’s narrowing $9.6 million adjusted EBITDA loss shows progress, but Five9 and NICE demonstrate the profitability and cash generation SoundHound still needs to achieve as OASYS scales.
SOUN’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesSoundHound’s shares have lost 25.4% year to date (YTD), underperforming the industry, as shown below.
SOUN’s YTD Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, SOUN trades at a forward price-to-sales (P/S) multiple of 12.7, slightly above the industry’s average.
SOUN’s P/S Ratio (Forward 12-Month) vs. Industry
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Over the past 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for SoundHound’s 2026 and 2027 loss per share has narrowed to 16 cents and 13 cents, respectively, as shown below. The expected loss for 2026 remains wider than the previous year’s loss of 13 cents per share.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
SOUN currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Investors of social media company Reddit (RDDT -5.27%) received great news last week: it will be joining the S&P 500 index on Aug. 18. The index includes the top companies on U.S. markets. For a stock to make it onto the index, it's a sign of its size, success, and profitability.
Shares of Reddit jumped on the news last week. However, on a year-to-date basis, they're still down 23%. At around $178, they're also roughly 37% below their 52-week high of $282.95. Could this news send them soaring back to those levels?
Image source: Getty Images.
Why Reddit's stock could rally further on this news It's a big deal for a stock to be added to the S&P 500. Many funds track the index, and when a stock is added to it, they have to buy it to ensure they match its composition. Thus, there will be new purchases of the stock, potentially lifting its share price in the process.
Many investors buy S&P 500 index funds as a way to gain exposure to the overall market, as it gives them diversification across many sectors. Stocks that get added to the index usually experience increases in their share prices afterward. Reddit, which has been having a lackluster year in 2026, may have more room to rise higher in the near term.
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Is Reddit's stock a good buy right now? At around $34 billion in market cap, Reddit isn't fairly large when it comes to the tech sector. The company is, however, experiencing tremendous growth and may grow significantly more over the years.
In its most recent quarter, which went up until the end of June, it grew its revenue by an impressive 61%, totaling $805 million. And it generated a strong profit of $253 million, which was 31% of its top line.
At more than 41 times earnings, its valuation isn't terribly cheap, but for the growth it's experiencing and potential it possesses to become much larger in the future, it may be justifiable. Although millions of users rely on chatbots for answers these days, there are concerns about their trustworthiness and reliability, and Reddit's online communities may offer more value for people seeking balanced options. That's why I'm not concerned about the business, as it may remain a popular destination for users.
While the social media stock may not surge back to its 52-week high right away, as that would involve a significant rally, it can be a great buy for investors today, as it has plenty of upside in both the short term and over the long haul.
Alto Ingredients ve 2. čtvrtletí prodal o 2,2 milionu galonů méně exportního obnovitelného paliva kvůli vyšším přepravním nákladům a dostupnosti lodí. Výnosy z exportu přesto vzrostly o 800 tisíc USD.
Key Takeaways Alto Ingredients' renewable fuel export gallons fell 2.2 million due to freight costs and vessel availability.Export revenues rose $800,000 as Alto Ingredients' gallons commanded a higher premium than a year earlier.Strong U.S. ethanol markets helped Alto Ingredients shift its product mix toward domestic fuel-grade sales. Alto Ingredients, Inc.’s (ALTO - Free Report) renewable fuel exports faced pressure in the second quarter of 2026 as geopolitical disruption in the Middle East affected shipping economics between the United States and Europe. Although European demand remained robust, higher freight costs and reduced certainty around vessel availability from the Gulf Coast compressed the U.S.-to-Europe arbitrage. This made Brazilian exports more competitive in Europe and contributed to lower renewable fuel export volumes compared with the year-ago quarter.
The impact was visible in Alto Ingredients’ sales mix. Renewable fuel export gallons declined 2.2 million from the prior-year period because of freight costs and availability. However, export revenues increased $800,000, as the gallons sold commanded a significantly higher premium to domestic renewable fuel than a year earlier.
The export disruption did not prevent Alto Ingredients from placing its renewable fuel production. Strong domestic ethanol markets allowed the company to shift its product mix toward U.S. fuel-grade ethanol sales. Total renewable fuel gallons sold were 65 million in the second quarter, down from 66.8 million a year earlier, while total gallons sold, including specialty alcohol, increased to 88.5 million from 86.7 million.
Export conditions therefore remain an important variable for Alto Ingredients’ renewable fuel business, with freight costs, vessel availability and competition from Brazil affecting the economics of U.S. shipments to Europe.
What Do the Latest Metrics Say About Alto Ingredients?Alto Ingredients, which competes with Green Plains Inc. (GPRE - Free Report) and Aemetis, Inc. (AMTX - Free Report) , has seen its shares decline 24.1% over the past month, underperforming the industry’s 2.9% growth. During the same period, shares of Green Plains have declined 7.4%, while Aemetis has gained 21.2%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, Alto Ingredients’ forward price-to-sales ratio of 0.33 is lower than the industry’s average of 3.32. The company is also trading at a discount to Green Plains (with a forward price-to-sales ratio of 0.57) and Aemetis (0.39).
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Alto Ingredients’ 2026 and 2027 earnings per share has declined 27.8% and 66.3% to 39 cents and 28 cents, respectively, in the past 30 days.
GE Vernova zakončila 2. čtvrtletí s backlogem 176 miliard USD, když organické objednávky vyskočily o 88 % na 24,2 miliardy USD. Tržby vzrostly o 22 % na 11,1 miliardy USD.
Key Takeaways GE Vernova's backlog reached $176 billion as orders surged 88% organically to $24.2 billion.Gas backlog and slot reservations rose to 116 GW, while data-center orders topped $5 billion year to date.GE Vernova's Q2 revenues grew 22%, while adjusted EBITDA rose 62% and free cash flow reached $5.1 billion. GE Vernova Inc. (GEV - Free Report) has entered into latter half of 2026 with a robust backlog that strengthens its revenue outlook. As electricity consumption continues to rise, growing demand for the company’s power-generation and grid technologies is translating into a stronger order pipeline and greater visibility into future business performance.
The company ended the second quarter of 2026 with a $176-billion backlog, up $13 billion sequentially, while orders increased 88% organically to $24.2 billion. Power and Electrification led the gains, reflecting accelerating demand for generation and grid infrastructure.
The strength of GE Vernova’s Power business is particularly notable. Gas equipment backlog and slot reservation agreements increased from 100 gigawatt (GW) to 116 GW, and management expects at least 125 GW by year-end. Electrification continues to benefit from grid investment and data-center demand, with data-center orders exceeding $5 billion year to date.
The company’s backlog expansion is already being accompanied by stronger financial results. GE Vernova generated $11.1 billion of revenues in the second quarter, up 22% year over year, while adjusted EBITDA increased 62% to $1.25 billion. Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 11.3% from 8.5% a year earlier. Free cash flow reached $5.1 billion in the quarter compared with just $194 million in the second quarter of 2025.
With electricity consumption, grid investment and generation requirements creating structural opportunities across its portfolio, the company’s growing backlog could remain one of its most important drivers of revenue and earnings growth over the next several years.
Companies Benefiting From the TrendThe broader industry is experiencing a similar investment cycle. U.S. utilities are increasing capital spending as data centers, industrial activity and electrification drive electricity demand.
Southern Company (SO - Free Report) : The company is positioned to benefit from rising electricity demand in its service territories and continued investment in generation and grid infrastructure.
Entergy Corporation (ETR - Free Report) : Its service territories include areas experiencing industrial and data-center-related load growth, creating opportunities for additional generation and grid investment.
Earnings Estimates for GEVThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates an increase of 74.11% and that for 2027 EPS implies a decline of 21.2% year over year.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
GEV Stock Trading at a PremiumGEV is trading at a premium relative to the industry, with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings of 39.79X compared with the industry average of 25.39X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
GEV Stock’s Price PerformanceIn the past six months, the company’s shares have risen 30% against the industry’s 4.2% decline.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
GEV’s Zacks RankThe company currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
GE Vernova (GEV +2.11%), which was spun off from General Electric (GE +0.50%) two years ago, posted some impressive numbers in its second-quarter earnings report in late July. Its revenue rose 22% year over year to $11.1 billion, beating analysts' estimates by $330 million, while its total orders surged 88% organically to $24.2 billion.
Within that total, GE Vernova's Power and Electrification orders surged 134% and 66% organically. The AI boom drove more utilities to purchase the Power segment's gas turbines and the Electrification segment's grid equipment.
Image source: Getty Images.
However, the Wind segment -- which sells onshore and offshore wind turbines -- posted a 40% decline in its organic orders. Let's see why nobody seems to be worried about that steep drop.
Why is GE Vernova's Wind business declining? GE Vernova's Wind segment only accounted for 5% of its total orders in the second quarter. That's down from 13% of its total orders in 2025. A combination of operational, macroeconomic, and demand-related challenges caused that decline.
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It experienced significant quality-control issues, including high-profile turbine failures at its Vineyard Wind and Dogger Bank projects. At the same time, soaring inflation and persistent supply chain bottlenecks compressed the margins of its onshore and offshore projects.
Since many of those projects were locked into fixed-price contracts, it couldn't simply adjust its prices to offset the pressure. Instead, it downsized its offshore business and refused to bid on higher-risk projects -- but that cautious approach reduced its orders and revenue.
The Wind Segment also remains a dead weight on GE Vernova's bottom line. In the first half of 2026, it posted a negative adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) margin of 19%, compared to a negative 7% in the first half of 2025.
Why isn't anyone worried about the Wind segment? GE Vernova isn't fretting over the Wind segment's decline because its Power and Electrification segments, which are riding high on AI tailwinds, can easily offset its sluggish growth and widening losses. In the first half of 2026, its Power and Electrification segments posted positive adjusted EBITDA margins of 17.6% and 18.2%, respectively, compared to their adjusted EBITDA margins of 14.1% and 13%, respectively, in the first half of 2025.
Instead of spending too much time trying to turn around its Wind business, GE Vernova is allocating more of its capital toward the Power and Electrification segments. So while investors should keep an eye on that weak link, they shouldn't consider it a red flag for the stock.
Oklo dokončila stavbu pilotního reaktoru Groves One za 229 dní letos v červnu, což CEO označil za „rekordní rychlost“ pro budoucí komerční nasazení v USA. Společnost ale stále čeká na první komerční reaktory v Idahu v roce 2027.
Oklo (OKLO -0.56%), a developer of microreactors, completed its construction of Groves One, its pilot isotope-production reactor, in just 229 days this June. CEO Jacob DeWitte subsequently claimed Oklo would build its reactors at a "world record speed" in the U.S. to serve the soaring energy demands of the AI boom and American manufacturing.
Oklo's deployment of Groves One wasn't the fastest in history, since a few small reactors were deployed even faster during the early Atomic Age and Cold War. Still, it marked the fastest U.S. non-military reactor build under modern environmental and Department of Energy (DOE) regulations. Let's see why that's a bright green flag for Oklo's investors.
Image source: Getty Images.
The first major step toward its first commercial deployments Oklo's Aurora microreactor is tiny compared to a conventional nuclear reactor. It generates just 1.5 MWe, but it can be connected to more microreactors to generate up to 75 MWe per "Powerhouse" plant. That's not much power compared to a conventional nuclear power plant, which typically generates more than 1,000 MWe. Still, Oklo's smaller plants are well-suited for rapid deployments in remote and off-grid areas.
The Aurora runs on metallic uranium fuel pellets, which are denser, have higher thermal resistance, and are cheaper to fabricate than the uranium dioxide fuel pellets used in traditional reactors. By processing its pellets in a closed loop, its reactors can last for a decade without refueling. Conventional reactors are refueled in stages every two years.
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Oklo's microreactors sound like a game changer for the nuclear energy market, but they haven't been commercially deployed yet. It plans to start generating meaningful revenue after it deploys its first commercial reactors in Idaho in 2027, but it needs to pass a few crucial tests first.
Last month, Oklo received a Startup Authorization (to load nuclear fuel and start testing) from the DOE following a safety and operation readiness review. On Aug. 5, the Groves Isotope Test Reactor achieved criticality (a controlled, self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction) for the first time.
But is Oklo's stock worth buying today? Oklo's progress is encouraging, but it wasn't flawless. It actually missed the DOE's initial target for achieving criticality by July 4, while four other microreactor developers -- Antares, Valar Atomics, Deployable Energy, and Aalo Atomics -- met that deadline.
Assuming Oklo successfully deploys its first commercial reactors, analysts expect Oklo's revenue to surge from nothing in 2025 to $55 million in 2028. But with a market cap of $8.3 billion, it's already valued at 149 times its 2028 sales. It's also expected to stay unprofitable, and its share count has risen by more than 50% since its public debut in May 2024. Those issues make Oklo's stock a bit too hot to handle in this volatile market.
NexGen Energy jedná s BHP o financování projektu Rook I a chce během příštích devíti měsíců získat 1 miliardu USD na financování. Firma zároveň uvedla, že s BHP vede velmi otevřený technický dialog.
Item 1 of 4 Potential uranium processing site of NexGen Rook mine at Athabasca Basin, Canada, August 13, 2026. REUTERS/Divya Rajagopal
[1/4]Potential uranium processing site of NexGen Rook mine at Athabasca Basin, Canada, August 13, 2026. REUTERS/Divya Rajagopal Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
SummaryCompaniesNexGen aims to secure funding within nine months via prepayment, debt and project equityBHP examined a possible NexGen acquisition last year, two sources told ReutersRook I is targeted to start production by 2030 in the Athabasca basinATHABASCA BASIN, Saskatchewan/MELBOURNE, Aug 17 (Reuters) - Canadian uranium miner NexGen Energy is sharing information and "talking regularly" with mining giant BHP, about its Rook I mining project in Saskatchewan, CEO Leigh Curyer told Reuters when asked about a potential equity stake.
NexGen put the first shovel in the ground to kick off construction of what is slated to be one of the world's largest uranium mines on Thursday and will look to raise $1 billion in capital in the next nine months. The miner is considering financing options of prepayment agreements with utility companies, debt finance and direct equity in the project.
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Asked if the company was talking to BHP about a potential equity partnership, Curyer said in an interview NexGen has an open dialogue and noted BHP has purchased a large parcel of land near the Rook project in the Athabasca basin.
“We always speak to them. We have a very open dialogue in terms of technical information," Curyer told Reuters. He said BHP wants to put more weighting in their portfolio in politically stable countries. "Let's see where the future goes."
Under previous CEO Mike Henry, BHP's business development team ran the ruler over NexGen last year, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.
BHP's incoming CEO Brandon Craig, who took the helm of the world's largest miner on July 1, also plans to take a "really good look" at uranium but acknowledged that "scale was hard," according to an investor who declined to be named due to company policy. BHP declined to comment.
Soaring demand for AI is driving a massive build-out of power-hungry data centres, in turn boosting the need for new generation capacity, including nuclear plants, while governments also look to diversify their energy sources in the wake of the Iran war.
BHP already produces around 5% of global uranium supply, as a byproduct at its Olympic Dam copper operations in South Australia, where it has previously ruled out further expansion. In the Athabasca region alone besides NexGen, at least two more miners such as Denison and Paladin are advancing their uranium mine construction.
BHP has a growing foothold in the region.
In Saskatchewan, BHP is building the world's largest potash mine.
Canada's Athabasca basin has the world's largest known deposit of uranium and of the highest grade, according to the country's natural resources ministry. It is home to companies such as Cameco and Orano Mining who make up the bulk of the uranium export.
NexGen's Rook mine is expected to come into production by 2030. Its market capitalisation has doubled to C$9.68 billion over the past year, which has led some investors to suggest it may now look too expensive for BHP.
Rook I, located deep inside Athabasca and surrounding the Patterson lake, is aiming to be one of the world's largest uranium producers. Canadian investor and actor Kevin O'Leary who MCd the ground-breaking ceremony on Thursday, called the project a "great energy story."
Broker Canaccord expects demand for uranium to triple by 2035 from 2025 levels, it said in a note in April.
Divya Rajagopal in Athabasca, Saskatchewan, Melanie Burton in Australia. Editing by Caroline Stauffer and Chizu Nomiyama
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Tržní sázky dál dávají Paramount Skydance 74% šanci na převzetí Warner Bros. Discovery do července 2027, ale spor s 12 státními žalobci zvyšuje riziko, že transakce padne.
Prediction markets traders still see Paramount Skydance as likely to succeed in its bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, but a battle in court with 12 state attorneys general is increasing the chances that the merger falls through.
Traders on prediction market platform Kalshi think that there's a 74% likelihood that Paramount will acquire Warner Bros. by July 2027, while there are 22% odds that a deal doesn't go through by that date.
Before California and 11 other states sued to block the merger on July 13, odds Paramount would succeed in acquiring the company were over 80%. However, the likelihood the merger would be successful fell to as low as 66% on July 24 when Paramount announced it would delay the acquisition to 2027.
On Kalshi, speculators are asked in the market who will successfully take over Warner Bros. before July 2027, and contracts are resolved from news reports, official press releases and or government filings.
Meanwhile, on platform Polymarket, odds are a similar 23% that no acquisition succeeds by June 30, 2027. The contracts on Polymarket are resolved using a consensus of reporting.
The merger's termination date is March 4, 2027, and that date automatically extends to June 4, 2027 if only regulatory obstacles remain.
A federal judge set a March 2027 trial date for the states' lawsuit. Paramount said before the date was announced that it wouldn't complete the acquisition until court rules on the states' claims or until June 1, 2027, whichever comes first. If the deal doesn't close by Sept. 30, Paramount will owe 25 cents per share, per quarter to Warner Bros. shareholders until the transaction is finalized.
Last week, the Directors Guild of America and International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees wrote a letter to California Attorney General Rob Bonta — who has taken the lead in the states' case against the merger — and Paramount CEO David Ellison, calling on them to negotiate a solution or push to move the start date of the trial earlier to avoid prolonged uncertainty.
Disclosure: CNBC and Kalshi have a commercial relationship that includes customer acquisition and a minority investment.
Astera Labs v pondělí posílila po zvýšení doporučení od Northland Capital Markets z Market Perform na Outperform a po lepších výsledcích za 2. čtvrtletí i silném výhledu na 3. čtvrtletí.
Astera Labs Inc. (NASDAQ:ALAB) stock climbed Monday after Northland Capital Markets upgraded the semiconductor company from Market Perform to Outperform and set a $350 price forecast.
The upgrade gave investors a fresh reason to buy the stock. Astera Labs also outpaced the broader technology sector. The Nasdaq gained 0.25%, while the S&P 500 fell 0.10%. The technology sector rose 0.41%.
Strong Second-Quarter ResultsThe upgrade follows the company’s better-than-expected second-quarter results on Aug. 5.
It reported adjusted earnings of 80 cents per share, beating the Street estimate of 69 cents. Revenue reached $392.4 million, topping the $360.72 million consensus estimate.
Third-Quarter Outlook Tops EstimatesThe semiconductor company also issued a strong third-quarter outlook. It expects adjusted earnings of $1.16 to $1.21 per share. That compares with the Street estimate of 81 cents.
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Astera Labs forecast revenue of $540 million to $560 million. Analysts had expected $416.53 million.
Astera Labs Technical AnalysisALAB remains in a longer-term uptrend. The stock trades 53.2% above its 200-day simple moving average of $216.62 and 17.9% above its 100-day SMA of $281.56.
Shares are also 6% above the 20-day SMA of $313.17. However, the stock remains 6.4% below its 50-day SMA of $354.51. A move above that level could strengthen the intermediate trend.
The relative strength index stands at 50.60, signaling neutral momentum.
The moving-average picture remains mixed. The 20-day SMA is below the 50-day SMA, pointing to near-term pressure. However, the 50-day SMA remains above the 200-day SMA after a golden cross in May, supporting the longer-term bullish trend.
Immediate resistance sits near $342.50, while support is around $289.50.
ALAB Stock Price Activity: Astera Labs shares were up 5.34% at $338.78 at the time of publication Monday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
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Key Takeaways Uber and Pony AI plan to deploy more than 2,000 robotaxis across Europe, including Zagreb.The partnership combines Pony AI's Level 4 technology with Uber's global mobility platform.Uber's partnership model supports robotaxi expansion without developing or owning every vehicle. Uber Technologies (UBER - Free Report) and Chinese company Pony AI (PONY - Free Report) have expanded their strategic partnership, with plans to deploy more than 2,000 Pony AI robotaxis across Europe. The collaboration will extend beyond the forthcoming commercial service on Uber’s platform in Zagreb to four additional European cities. Rollout details will be disclosed in phases, while the broader agreement also covers planned deployments in the Middle East.
The agreement provides a clearer route to commercial scale for PONY’s joint-deployment model, which combines Level 4 autonomous-driving technology, a major mobility platform and daily fleet management. Technology providers, platform operators and fleet partners can work together within each market, with some participants potentially performing multiple roles. Vehicle ownership and financing arrangements may vary by location.
Pony AI will contribute its Level 4 technology and the passenger-experience and operational expertise gained from several large-scale robotaxi deployments. Uber will provide access to customers through its global mobility platform, including booking, payments and customer support, alongside the expanding network of human drivers. Established local partners selected for individual markets may manage everyday fleet operations.
The Chinese company already runs paid, fully driverless robotaxi services across the country’s four tier-one cities. The company has achieved citywide break-even unit economics in several markets, supporting the commercial viability of its model at scale.
The expanded collaboration advances Pony AI’s growth strategy by complementing its entry into new markets with regional-scale fleet deployments. The companies began working together in May 2025, when they announced plans to introduce Pony.ai robotaxis to Uber’s platform internationally. In 2026, they partnered with Croatian mobility company Verne to launch Europe’s first commercial robotaxi service in Zagreb, with it acting as the local fleet owner and operator. Uber’s global head of autonomous mobility and delivery, Sarfraz Maredia, indicated that the collaboration was intended to create a repeatable commercial model capable of expanding rapidly and reliably between cities.
For Uber, the development could substantially accelerate the robotaxi push without the requirement to develop autonomous driving technology or to own and operate every vehicle itself. Integrating PONY’s proven system with Uber’s customer base, booking infrastructure and local operating network gives the platform a potentially repeatable, asset-flexible approach to entering multiple markets. The planned fleet of more than 2,000 vehicles would also help Uber move beyond isolated trials, increase the availability of autonomous rides and strengthen its position as a central marketplace connecting passengers with both human-driven and driverless vehicles.
Uber aims to gain a stronghold in the robotaxi market through strategic partnerships. By adopting this approach, Uber has avoided the massive R&D costs of developing autonomous systems in-house. In 2020, Uber sold the self-driving division but retained its focus on becoming the ultimate ride-hailing super app.
In line with its partnership-driven strategy, Uber, in collaboration with another Chinese company, WeRide (WRD - Free Report) , announced earlier this year plans to introduce commercial robotaxi services in the Greater Zurich Region. This move represents their second joint deployment in Europe, coming just weeks after the announcement of a similar initiative in Madrid.
Since December 2024, WeRide and Uber have introduced robotaxi services across several Middle Eastern markets, including fully driverless commercial operations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as well as public services in Riyadh. These deployments provide an operational foundation for their European expansion.
UBER’s Share Price Performance, Valuation and EstimatesShares of UBER have gained in low single digits (% wise) over the past three months. Despite the not-so-impressive performance, UBER’s shares have outperformed the Zacks Internet-Services industry over the same time frame.
3-Month Price ComparisonImage Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, UBER trades at a 12-month forward price-to-sales of 2.44X. UBER trades at a discount compared with its industry.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
See how the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Uber’s earnings has been revised over the past 90 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
UBER's Zacks RankUBER currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Pershing Square dál drží Amazon jako čtvrtou největší pozici a čeká, že zisky firmy porostou o více než 20 % ročně díky AI a e-commerce. AWS v posledním čtvrtletí zrychlil růst tržeb na 37 % meziročně.
Bill Ackman's Pershing Square Capital Management started selling Alphabet (GOOG -0.66%) (GOOGL -0.73%) in the fourth quarter of 2025 while continuing to hold a large stake in Amazon (AMZN -0.82%) and other tech stocks. Ackman also bought a new position in Microsoft. In a post on X dated May 16, 2026, Ackman explained that he sold the Alphabet position to free up cash for Microsoft. But he also apparently sees better prospects in Amazon.
Pershing Square's mid-year update to investors reiterated its expectation that Amazon will grow its earnings at more than 20% annually, driven by opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI) and continued e-commerce growth.
While Pershing Square trimmed its Amazon position in Q2, the position still accounts for about 10% of the firm's reported assets on its SEC Form 13F, making it the fourth-largest holding. Bill Ackman's thesis behind the investment continues to play out almost exactly as he predicted when he originally bought the stock in April 2025.
Bill Ackman of Pershing Square Capital. Image source: Getty Images.
Amazon is performing as expected Pershing Square's investment case for Amazon is centered on the company's two growth engines: Amazon Web Services (AWS) and e-commerce. At the time of the initial investment, Ackman expected rising demand for artificial intelligence (AI) tools on AWS to potentially reaccelerate growth. And that's exactly what happened.
AWS reported 17% year-over-year revenue growth in Q2 2025 when Ackman initially bought the stock. In the most recent quarter, growth accelerated to 37% -- its fastest pace in more than four years.
Amazon's total revenue rose 20% year over year in the second quarter, while operating income jumped 43% to $27 billion. That also supports Ackman's view that the retail business has room for margin expansion.
Amazon has been investing in robotics and tightening inventory management to lift retail profitability -- and those improvements are showing up in operating income growth. Over time, operating profits could continue to climb, aided by advertising momentum and ongoing warehouse automation.
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260.50
Ackman expects Amazon to deliver high double-digit earnings growth Amazon stock has been weighed down by aggressive increases in capital spending to support the data center build-out. As a result of this spending, Amazon's free cash flow dipped to negative $8.8 billion in the second quarter.
Pershing Square sold about a quarter of its Amazon stake in Q2, but that doesn't appear to reflect a bearish view on the stock. Ackman's current view on Amazon was revealed in the firm's mid-year update released in August, in which it expressed belief that the market is underestimating Amazon's resilience and "significant growth runway." Ackman expects new data center capacity to be absorbed by AI inference workloads and earn attractive returns over time.
The firm likely sold some of its Amazon position to make room for other new positions in Visa, Mastercard, S&P Global, and Netflix. But this doesn't mean Ackman has turned bearish on the cloud computing leader.
Ackman still sees Amazon compounding earnings at over 20% annually, which is consistent with the Wall Street consensus. The stock trades around 22x forward earnings, which is not expensive for this level of earnings growth, and could support market-beating gains assuming Amazon delivers on those expectations.
John Ballard has positions in Amazon. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Mastercard, Microsoft, Netflix, S&P Global, and Visa. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Tiger Global snížil podíl v NVIDIA, Microsoft a Alphabet a přidal AMD. AMD ve 2. čtvrtletí zvýšila tržby o 50 % na 11,5 miliardy USD, z toho segment datacenter o 107 % na 6,7 miliardy USD.
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AMD (NASDAQ: AMD | AMD Price Prediction) trades at $514.39, with the setup looking balanced. The AI accelerator thesis is real, but the stock already reflects most of it. Chase Coleman’s Tiger Global cut NVIDIA (NASDAQ:NVDA), Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL) while adding AMD and SpaceX reframes AMD as the marginal AI trade instead of the incumbent bet.
AMD chases Nvidia in accelerators while gaining share in server CPUs. Shares are up 140.19% year to date and 184.27% over the past year, powered by a Data Center segment that now represents 58% of total revenue, up from 42% a year ago. Tiger Global’s swap into AMD out of mega-cap incumbents signals that AMD’s forward risk/reward beats stocks already priced for perfection.
Why the Bulls Are Piling In Q2 was a genuine inflection. Revenue hit $11.5 billion, up 50% year over year, with Data Center revenue of $6.7 billion, up 107%. Non-GAAP gross margin expanded to 56%, and Q3 guidance points to roughly $13 billion in revenue, up 41% at the midpoint.
The catalyst list is stacked. AMD announced a strategic partnership with Anthropic to deploy up to 2 gigawatts of MI450 series GPUs in Helios, plus expanded Microsoft deployment of Helios on Azure. Lisa Su told investors AMD now expects data center segment revenue to more than double year-over-year in 2027, and to significantly exceed our $20 annual EPS target within our strategic timeframe.
Sell-side agrees: 41 of 51 analysts rate the stock Buy or Strong Buy, with a $612.84 target price.
Why the Bears Say the Ramp Is in the Price Valuation is extreme. AMD trades at a trailing P/E near 132 and a forward P/E of 69, with a price-to-sales ratio of 20. Return on equity sits at just 10.2%, thin for a hypergrowth story.
Nvidia’s Data Center revenue dwarfs AMD’s entire company. China export controls, a Gaming segment down 31% year over year, and free cash flow pressure from surging capex compound the challenge. The bear case: the H2 execution bar is unforgiving.
Why Patience May Be the Smarter Trade AMD beat Q2 by 3.06% yet fell 7.04% on the day. Shares are off 2.79% over the past month even after a 6.42% weekly bounce. Options positioning is neutral, with a full-chain put/call ratio of 0.59.
The Helios ramp is the swing factor. Initial shipments begin Q3 2026, ramping through Q4 into 2027. Investors need one clean quarter of execution before rerating higher.
The Numbers Behind the Verdict AMD trades at $514.39 against an average analyst target of $612.84, implying meaningful upside if targets hold. Coverage is broad, with 51 analysts tracking the name and sentiment overwhelmingly positive.
AMD’s 140.19% year-to-date gain outpaces Nvidia’s advance year to date. AMD has already done the catch-up trade Tiger Global was buying.
The Verdict on AMD at $514 At $514.39, the risk/reward on AMD looks balanced.
The bull case requires flawless execution. Helios shipments must ramp on schedule in Q4, Data Center margins must hold at 56%, and Anthropic gigawatt deployments must convert on time in H1 2027. Any slip resets the stock quickly, as the Q2 earnings-day drawdown showed.
AMD’s customer list, which includes OpenAI, Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META), Anthropic, and Microsoft, blunts the bear case for a short. Server CPU share gains continue, embedded is recovering with more than $18 billion of new design wins tracking this year, and MI450 pull runs ahead of internal forecasts.
Investors are watching the Q3 report against the $13 billion guide, confirmation on Helios shipments, and whether valuation resets closer to the forward multiple. A stock up 184% in a year leaves little room for execution slippage.
The story remains intact; the next quarter will help set the price.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Nvidia čeká na výsledky za 2. fiskální čtvrtletí fiskálního roku 2027; klíčová bude hrubá marže kolem 75 %. Poptávka po AI dál podporuje víceleté zakázky a odolnost tržeb.
SummaryNvidia Corporation remains a Strong Buy as demand shifts from intentions to signed obligations, with $91B July quarter revenue and 75% gross margin guidance.Hyperscaler and sovereign AI demand drive robust, multi-year committed backlogs, reducing reliance on the top four customers and supporting revenue durability.Rubin chip shipments begin Q3 2026, pulling forward revenue and mitigating typical product transition risks due to persistent supply constraints.Margin stability is pivotal; holding mid-70s gross margins amid rising input costs and flat operating leverage underpins the near-term bull case. wellesenterprises/iStock Editorial via Getty Images
Nvidia Corporation (NVDA) is set to report second-quarter fiscal 2027 earnings release on August 26, and judging by the noise around it, a good number of us are expecting it to deliver some kind
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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of GOOGL, META, MSFT, AMZN either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Netflix v pondělí oslabil o 2,14 % na 76,49 USD, protože trh dál tlačí slabší výhled pro 3. čtvrtletí i celý rok. Tržby za 3. čtvrtletí mají činit 12,86 miliardy USD, což je pod odhadem Wall Street 13,01 miliardy USD.
Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) stock traded lower on Monday as structural headwinds from its second-quarter guidance continued to depress the share price. The decline comes despite a brief lift last Thursday following disclosures from Pershing Square Capital Management.
The Nasdaq is up 0.14% while the S&P 500 has shed 0.15% and Communication Services is down 0.7%.
• Netflix stock is facing resistance. Why is NFLX stock retreating?
Pershing Square Discloses New PositionBillionaire investor Bill Ackman re-entered Netflix, acquiring 3.15 million shares. The new position makes up 4.9% of Pershing Square’s portfolio. Ackman previously exited Netflix in 2022 with a $400 million loss after purchasing over $1 billion in stock at $400 per share and selling at $225 per share.
Pershing Square stated that “Netflix has since effectively won the streaming wars” and noted the stock’s “current valuation multiple represents a substantial discount.”
Second-Quarter Revenue Misses EstimatesOn July 16, Netflix reported second-quarter revenue of $12.56 billion, missing the Street consensus estimate of $12.59 billion despite rising 13% year-over-year. UCAN revenue hit $5.43 billion (+10%), EMEA reached $4.03 billion (+14%), LATAM generated $1.58 billion (+21%) and APAC totaled $1.51 billion (+16%).
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Earnings per share came in at 80 cents, beating the Street estimate of 79 cents. View hours grew 2% year-over-year in the first half of 2026. Live programming accounted for 5% of 2026 content spend and 1% of view hours, while ad-related revenue remains on track to top $3 billion for 2026.
Soft Guidance Triggers PressureMarket sentiment remains tied to conservative forward guidance. Netflix projects third-quarter revenue of $12.86 billion (12% year-over-year growth), falling below Street estimates of $13.01 billion.
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Expected third-quarter earnings of 82 cents per share also lag behind the Street consensus of 84 cents. Additionally, Netflix narrowed its full-year revenue outlook to $51 billion–$51.40 billion from $50.70 billion–$51.70 billion, compared to the Street estimate of $51.41 billion.
NetFlix Technical Levels to WatchFrom a trend perspective, Netflix is trying to stabilize in the short term, trading above its 20-day SMA ($73.25) and 50-day SMA ($74.75), but it remains 7.9% below its 100-day SMA ($83.54) and 13.6% below its 200-day SMA ($89.04). That "short-term bounce inside a longer-term downtrend" setup often creates choppy tape, especially with the 20-day SMA still below the 50-day SMA (a bearish alignment).
Key Resistance: $78.50 Key Support: $71 NFLX Stock Price Activity: Netflix shares were down 2.14% at $76.49 at the time of publication on Monday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
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