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NEW YORK, June 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Helen of Troy Limited (“Helen of Troy” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: HELE). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. 

The class action concerns whether Helen of Troy and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. 

You have until August 3, 2026, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Helen of Troy securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com.   

[Click here for information about joining the class action]  

On July 9, 2024, Helen of Troy announced its 2025 first quarter results, allegedly reflecting a 49% decrease in earnings per share year-over year and reducing its full year revenue outlook by more than 20%. 

On this news, Helen of Troy’s stock price fell nearly 28%.

Then, on July 10, 2025, Helen of Troy announced its 2026 first quarter results, allegedly reflecting a net sales decline of 11% year-over-year and a nearly 60% decline in adjusted earnings per share.  The Company also announced a $414.4 million goodwill impairment.  On this news, Helen of Troy’s stock price fell nearly 23%.

Finally, on October 9, 2025, Helen of Troy announced its 2026 second quarter results, allegedly revealing that quarterly sales were down 8.9% year-over-year, adjusted earnings per share fell 51%, and business disruptions and cost headwinds would continue throughout the remainder of the year. 

On this news, Helen of Troy’s stock price fell 25%.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com. 

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT: 
Danielle Peyton 
Pomerantz LLP 
[email protected] 
646-581-9980 ext. 7980 

Robbins LLP Urges HELE Stockholders Who Lost Money Investing in Helen of Troy Limited to Contact the Firm for Information About Leading the Cla

Time-Sensitive: Allegations Focus on Tennessee Distribution Center Failures and Misleading Operational Health Representations That Cost HELE Investors Over $38 Per Share

, /PRNewswire/ -- Levi & Korsinsky, LLP alerts investors in Helen of Troy Limited (NASDAQ: HELE) of a pending securities class action. Class Period: April 24, 2024 through October 8, 2025. Check if you can recover your investment losses or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. at [email protected] | (212) 363-7500.

Helen of Troy shares lost $24.68 per share in a single session, a 27.7% collapse, after the Company slashed its full-year revenue outlook by more than 20% and disclosed an "unusual number of internal and external challenges." The stock suffered additional collapses of 22.7% and 25% on July 10, 2025 and October 9, 2025 following additional related disclosures. The Court has set August 3, 2026 as the deadline to apply for lead plaintiff appointment.

The Alleged Tennessee Distribution Center Disruption

A securities class action asserts that Helen of Troy misled shareholders about the operational readiness and efficiency of its new Tennessee distribution center, a cornerstone of the Company's Project Pegasus restructuring program. While management publicly described "implementation hiccups" and assured investors that remediation was "substantially completed," the lawsuit claims these representations masked deeper structural problems. The action contends the facility never achieved its targeted labor efficiencies during the Class Period, undermining the savings and margin expansion that had been promised to the market.

What Management Allegedly Knew About Operational Shortfalls

As alleged in the complaint, the Company's leadership was aware that internal budget and resource constraints prevented the distribution center from reaching the efficiency levels management publicly projected. The lawsuit asserts that statements characterizing the Tennessee facility's challenges as temporary "hiccups" were materially misleading because the problems were systemic. The action claims that:

The Tennessee distribution center's automation system required remediation that took longer and cost more than disclosed Labor efficiency targets at the facility were not achievable within the timeframes communicated to investors The Company lacked sufficient budget and resources to execute the distribution center optimization it repeatedly touted Full-year revenue guidance was reduced by over 20% in part due to these undisclosed operational failures Adjusted earnings per share ultimately declined nearly 60% as internal challenges compounded A $414.4 million goodwill impairment was later recorded, reflecting the depth of operational deterioration Internal and External Challenges: The Phrase That Obscured the Truth

When the Company first acknowledged trouble on July 9, 2024, it attributed disappointing results to an "unusual number of internal and external challenges" without specifying that its flagship distribution investment was failing to deliver. The lawsuit contends this vague characterization allowed the Company to avoid disclosing the severity of its operational problems while continuing to assure investors that Project Pegasus was generating "fuel" for growth.

Speak with an attorney about recovering damages or call (212) 363-7500.

"Investors deserve transparency about material risks that could affect their investments. When a company represents that operational challenges are temporary while internal constraints prevent achievement of stated goals, shareholders are deprived of the information they need to make informed decisions." -- Joseph E. Levi, Esq.

WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY -- Ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report for seven consecutive years, Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation. With a team of over 70 professionals, the firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors.

Frequently Asked Questions About the HELE Lawsuit

Q: Who is eligible to join the HELE investor lawsuit? A: Investors who purchased HELE stock or securities between April 24, 2024 and October 8, 2025 and suffered financial losses may be eligible. Eligibility is based on purchase date and documented losses, not on whether you still hold the shares.

Q: How much did HELE stock drop? A: Shares fell approximately 27.7%, a decline of $24.68 per share, after the Company disclosed a revenue outlook reduction of over 20% and cited internal and external challenges. Investors who purchased shares during the class period at artificially inflated prices may be entitled to compensation.

Q: What do HELE investors need to do right now? A: Gather brokerage records including purchase dates, share quantities, and prices paid. Contact Levi & Korsinsky for a free, no-obligation evaluation at [email protected] or (212) 363-7500. No immediate action is required to remain eligible as a class member.

Q: What is a lead plaintiff and why does it matter? A: A lead plaintiff is the investor appointed by the court to represent the entire class. Lead plaintiffs are typically investors with the largest documented losses. Being appointed does not increase individual recovery but gives direct oversight of how the case is run.

Q: What if I already sold my HELE shares -- can I still recover losses? A: Yes. Eligibility is based on when you purchased, not whether you still hold them. Investors who bought during the class period and sold at a loss may still participate.

Q: What does it cost me to participate? A: Nothing. Securities class actions are handled on a pure contingency basis. No upfront fees, no retainer, no out-of-pocket costs.

Q: What if I missed the lead plaintiff deadline? A: The deadline applies only to investors seeking lead plaintiff appointment. Class members who miss it can still participate in any settlement or recovery.

CONTACT:
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
Joseph E. Levi, Esq.
Ed Korsinsky, Esq.
33 Whitehall Street, 27th Floor
New York, NY 10004
[email protected]
Tel: (212) 363-7500
Fax: (212) 363-7171

SOURCE Levi & Korsinsky, LLP

, /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Helen of Troy Limited ("Helen of Troy" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: HELE). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. 

The class action concerns whether Helen of Troy and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. 

You have until August 3, 2026, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Helen of Troy securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com.   

[Click here for information about joining the class action]  

On July 9, 2024, Helen of Troy announced its 2025 first quarter results, allegedly reflecting a 49% decrease in earnings per share year-over year and reducing its full year revenue outlook by more than 20%. 

On this news, Helen of Troy's stock price fell nearly 28%.

Then, on July 10, 2025, Helen of Troy announced its 2026 first quarter results, allegedly reflecting a net sales decline of 11% year-over-year and a nearly 60% decline in adjusted earnings per share.  The Company also announced a $414.4 million goodwill impairment.  On this news, Helen of Troy's stock price fell nearly 23%.

Finally, on October 9, 2025, Helen of Troy announced its 2026 second quarter results, allegedly revealing that quarterly sales were down 8.9% year-over-year, adjusted earnings per share fell 51%, and business disruptions and cost headwinds would continue throughout the remainder of the year. 

On this news, Helen of Troy's stock price fell 25%.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com. 

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.  

CONTACT:
Danielle Peyton
Pomerantz LLP
[email protected]
646-581-9980 ext. 7980  

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP

NEW YORK, June 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized investor-rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Helen of Troy Limited (NASDAQ: HELE) and certain of its officers.

This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Helen of Troy securities between April 24, 2024 and October 8, 2025, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: bgandg.com/HELE.

Helen of Troy Case Details

The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:

Helen of Troy overstated the success and benefits of its Project Pegasus initiative, touting the “fuel” it was generating while downplaying issues such as “implementation hiccups” at its Tennessee distribution center and assuring investors that the project was progressing and delivering cost-saving efficiencies;in reality, Project Pegasus was not delivering the efficiencies Defendants claimed, as the Company lacked sufficient resources and budget to achieve its stated restructuring and cost-savings goals; andas a result, Defendants’ statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. What's Next for Helen of Troy Investors?

A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm’s site: bgandg.com/HELE. or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 917-590-0911. If you suffered a loss in Helen of Troy you have until August 3, 2026, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.

No Cost to Helen of Troy Investors

We, Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC, represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys’ fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.

Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC for Helen of Troy Securities Class Action?

Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. More at www.bgandg.com

"Our practice centers on restoring investor capital and ensuring corporate accountability, which serves to uphold the essential integrity of the marketplace," said Peretz Bronstein, Founding Partner of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.

Contact Info

Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or Nathan Miller
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
917-590-0911 | [email protected]

Attorney advertising.
Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

NEW YORK, June 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of Helen of Troy Limited (NASDAQ: HELE).

Shareholders who purchased shares of HELE during the class period listed are encouraged to contact the firm regarding possible lead plaintiff appointment. Appointment as lead plaintiff is not required to partake in any recovery.

CONTACT US HERE:

https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/helen-of-troy-limited-loss-submission-form/?id=188957&from=3

CLASS PERIOD: April 24, 2024 to October 8, 2025

ALLEGATIONS: According to the filed complaint, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that evidence suggests that given the importance of project pegasus to the Company’s business model and finances, the external macroeconomic conditions during the class period, and the Company’s internal budget and resource constraints, at the time these statements were made, defendants knew or should have known that project pegasus would not, and was not on track to, realize the savings, efficiency, or effectiveness that Helen of Troy consistently touted.

DEADLINE: August 3, 2026 Shareholders should not delay in registering for this class action. Register your information here: https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/helen-of-troy-limited-loss-submission-form/?id=188957&from=3

NEXT STEPS FOR SHAREHOLDERS: Once you register as a shareholder who purchased shares of HELE during the timeframe listed above, you will be enrolled in a portfolio monitoring software to provide you with status updates throughout the lifecycle of the case. The deadline to seek to be a lead plaintiff is August 3, 2026. There is no cost or obligation to you to participate in this case.

WHY GROSS LAW FIRM? The Gross Law Firm is a nationally recognized class action law firm, and our mission is to protect the rights of all investors who have suffered as a result of deceit, fraud, and illegal business practices. The Gross Law Firm is committed to ensuring that companies adhere to responsible business practices and engage in good corporate citizenship. The firm seeks recovery on behalf of investors who incurred losses when false and/or misleading statements or the omission of material information by a company lead to artificial inflation of the company's stock. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:
The Gross Law Firm
15 West 38th Street, 12th floor
New York, NY, 10018
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (646) 453-8903

Douglas Emmett is rated a Hold due to high leverage and weak FFO trends despite strong leasing momentum. DEI's portfolio is concentrated in affluent Los Angeles and Honolulu markets, offering niche specialization but significant geographic risk. Dividend coverage remains solid with a 1.3x AFFO coverage and ~6% yield, but dividend growth and operating cash flow trends could be better.

How do you choose between a fast-growing payment processor and an established industry titan? Deciding whether to buy Shift4 Payments (FOUR +0.95%) or PayPal (PYPL +1.01%) depends on your appetite for growth versus stability.

Shift4 Payments focuses on providing specialized commerce technology for the hospitality and entertainment sectors. PayPal provides a massive digital wallet ecosystem used by millions of consumers for daily transactions. You should compare them to see which better balances revenue growth and bottom-line profitability in your portfolio.

The case for Shift4 PaymentsShift4 Payments provides integrated commerce solutions and payment processing for merchants in specialized industries, such as hospitality and entertainment. The company has aggressively expanded its presence among tech stocks by completing the acquisition of Bambora North America in March 2026 and integrating the Global Blue business. It also maintains a strategic partnership with xAI to incorporate artificial intelligence into its customer service operations, thereby enhancing merchant support. No single customer accounts for more than 10% of revenue, which helps diversify its merchant and software partner network.

In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $4.2 billion, a 25.5% increase from the prior year. Net income for the period was approximately $119 million. This performance led to a net margin of roughly 2.8%.

As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is 3.2x. This ratio measures total debt relative to shareholder equity, showing that Shift4 Payments uses significant leverage to fund its operations. The current ratio, which measures the ability to cover short-term obligations, is 1.7x, while free cash flow reached nearly $499 million.

The case for PayPalPayPal operates a global network that connects 439 million active accounts with merchants for cross-border and domestic transactions. Its ecosystem includes popular brands like Venmo and Xoom, as well as its own stablecoin and various payment funding sources. The platform remains technology-agnostic to support bank accounts, credit cards, and buy now, pay later solutions for millions of users.

In FY 2025, revenue reached roughly $33.2 billion, up 4.3% from the prior year. Net income for the fiscal year was approximately $5.2 billion. This allowed the company to achieve a healthy net margin of nearly 15.8%.

As of the December 2025 balance sheet, the company maintains a debt-to-equity ratio of approximately 0.5x. The current ratio is 1.3x, indicating the business has more than enough assets to cover its short-term liabilities. Free cash flow was robust at nearly $5.6 billion for the year, which equals cash from operations minus capital expenditures.

Risk profile comparisonShift4 Payments faces intense competition from other industry players, such as Adyen and Block, which could hurt its ability to retain key merchant partners. The company also carries significant debt that could limit its capital flexibility to fund new strategic opportunities during economic downturns. Additionally, its reliance on complex IT systems and emerging AI tools makes it a target for cyberattacks and for increasing global regulations, such as the EU AI Act.

PayPal operates in a heavily regulated industry and remains subject to significant legal scrutiny regarding consumer protection. Despite the dismissal of some securities fraud class actions in May 2026, the company continues to face competition from Visa and Mastercard, as well as other fintech firms. Any disruptions at third-party banks or cloud infrastructure providers could also interrupt its transaction processing capabilities.

Valuation comparisonBased on the Forward P/E and P/S ratio, Shift4 Payments appears to be priced more attractively relative to its future earnings estimates than PayPal.

MetricShift4 PaymentsPayPalSector BenchmarkForward P/E6.5x8.2x37.6xP/S ratio0.9x1.2xSector benchmark uses the SPDR XLK sector ETF.
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.

Right out of the gates, I want to be fair and say that I own both PayPal and Shift4 Payments, but I have owned the former for much longer -- and it hasn’t been a great ride. While I love PayPal’s powerful brand, massive user base, and incredible free cash flow generation, the company’s growth story seems to be nearing its latter chapters.

While rumors swirl about a potential sale or spinoff of its faster-growing Venmo business -- a move that may create some value for shareholders -- it isn’t the type of transaction that really gets me excited about a stock. I just don’t know what the next move is for PayPal, other than a lot of share buybacks. These repurchases are fine, but not enough on their own to move the needle meaningfully -- even at PayPal’s deeply discounted price. For these reasons, I have stopped adding to my PayPal position and have just been letting it sit in the “penalty box,” so to speak, waiting for positive developments.

Meanwhile, I have been adding Shift4 Payments fairly frequently over the last year or so, as the stock slid by more than 50%. While neither PayPal nor Shift4 have been a stellar investment since their market debuts, Shift4’s steady sales growth, paired with a forward P/E of 6.5, makes it very enticing in my opinion.

That said, Shift4 adds an additional layer of risk as a serial acquirer. The company loves to grow through M&A and has quickly grown to become the No. 2 payment provider in U.S. restaurants (only trailing Toast), the No. 1 provider in U.S. hospitality, sports, and entertainment, and the No. 1 payments firm for luxury brands globally.

This leadership position, paired with management’s (so-far) keen ability to make and integrate shrewd acquisitions, makes Shift4’s growth story very appealing, especially at just 6.5 times forward earnings. Just growing sales and adjusted EBITDA by 34% and 43%, respectively, in 2025, Shift4 Payments offers multibagger potential that PayPal may no longer have, if it can continue to stick the landing on its numerous acquisitions. Said another way, I’ll take my chances with Shift4’s medium-risk, high-reward potential versus PayPal’s medium-risk, medium-reward outlook, in my opinion.

e.l.f. Beauty (ELF - Free Report) has recently been on Zacks.com's list of the most searched stocks. Therefore, you might want to consider some of the key factors that could influence the stock's performance in the near future.

Over the past month, shares of this cosmetics company have returned +16.6%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +2.1% change. During this period, the Zacks Cosmetics industry, which e.l.f. Beauty falls in, has gained 11.5%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?

Although media reports or rumors about a significant change in a company's business prospects usually cause its stock to trend and lead to an immediate price change, there are always certain fundamental factors that ultimately drive the buy-and-hold decision.

Earnings Estimate RevisionsRather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings.

We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.

e.l.f. Beauty is expected to post earnings of $0.73 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -18%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -28.8%.

For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $3.3 points to a change of +5.4% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed -1.4%.

For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $3.56 indicates a change of +7.7% from what e.l.f. Beauty is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -7.7%.

Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, e.l.f. Beauty is rated Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Revenue Growth ForecastEven though a company's earnings growth is arguably the best indicator of its financial health, nothing much happens if it cannot raise its revenues. It's almost impossible for a company to grow its earnings without growing its revenue for long periods. Therefore, knowing a company's potential revenue growth is crucial.

For e.l.f. Beauty, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $424.39 million indicates a year-over-year change of +20%. For the current and next fiscal years, $1.86 billion and $1.98 billion estimates indicate +13.5% and +6.9% changes, respectively.

Last Reported Results and Surprise Historye.l.f. Beauty reported revenues of $449.29 million in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +35.1%. EPS of $0.32 for the same period compares with $0.78 a year ago.

Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $425.82 million, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +5.51%. The EPS surprise was +10.34%.

The company beat consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.

ValuationNo investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance.

Comparing the current value of a company's valuation multiples, such as its price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), to its own historical values helps ascertain whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, whereas comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of how reasonable its stock price is.

The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an A is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.

e.l.f. Beauty is graded D on this front, indicating that it is trading at a premium to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.

Bottom LineThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about e.l.f. Beauty. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.

e.l.f. Beauty stock is showing exceptional strength. What’s fueling ELF momentum? What Is Driving e.l.f. Beauty’s Growth?Rhode continues to be a key growth driver: In the fiscal fourth quarter, adjusted EPS came in at 32 cents versus 29 cents expected, while revenue was $449.29 million versus $422.93 million expected and up 35.07% year over year. The company said the Rhode acquisition contributed about 34 percentage points to overall growth, with U.S. net sales up 26% and international revenue up 75% in the quarter.

Per the company, Early market testing of hair styling products yielded a 96% positive sentiment and revealed that 65% of buyers were entirely new to the e.l.f. ecosystem, signaling that this new category, joining e.l.f. Cosmetics and e.l.f. SKIN, is primed to act as a significant incremental revenue driver moving forward.

Critical Price Levels To Watch For ELF StockMomentum is improving: MACD is above its signal line and the histogram is positive, which points to fading downside pressure versus the prior downswing. Simply put, when MACD is above the signal line, it suggests the recent push higher is gaining traction even if the longer-term trend hasn't fully flipped.

From a structure standpoint, the death cross that formed in December 2025 (50-day SMA below the 200-day SMA) is still a headwind for longer-term trend investors, and the stock remains down 45.97% over the past 12 months. Key timing markers also matter here: a recent swing low formed in June and a swing high in April, so traders will be watching whether this bounce can turn into a higher-high sequence.

Key Resistance: $71.00 — a nearby round-number area that can cap rebounds if sellers defend the recent overhead zone Key Support: $58.00 — near a prior buyer-defense area and close to the 50-day moving-average region ($59.66) What Is e.l.f. Beauty’s Business Model?e.l.f. Beauty is a multi-brand beauty company that sells inclusive, accessible, clean, vegan, and cruelty-free cosmetics and skin care products, with a mission built around value and broad consumer reach. It offers everything from eyeliner and mascara to foundation, moisturizers, cleansers, and beauty tools through stores and e-commerce channels.

That business mix matters for the current setup because the Rhode acquisition is helping diversify the portfolio beyond core cosmetics and into prestige skincare, which can change how investors think about the company's growth runway. In fiscal 2026, the company pointed to e.l.f. Cosmetics reaching $1.8 billion in global retail sales, while Rhode delivered over $500 million in global retail sales and about $390 million in net sales.

e.l.f. Beauty Benzinga Edge Scorecard BreakdownBelow is the Benzinga Edge scorecard for e.l.f. Beauty, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses compared to the broader market:

The Verdict: e.l.f. Beauty’s Benzinga Edge signal reveals a quality-tilted profile weighed down by weak value and weak factor-based growth and momentum readings. For longer-term bulls, the setup argues for patience and confirmation (especially versus the 100-day/200-day trend), because premium valuation can amplify volatility if the next guidance update disappoints.

ELF Stock Price Movement UpdateELF Stock Price Activity: e.l.f. Beauty shares were up 6.53% at $68.17 at the time of publication on Tuesday, according to Benzinga Pro data.

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Companies within the Zacks Cosmetics industry are benefiting from continued demand for skincare, makeup, fragrance and personal care products, driven by consumers' growing focus on self-care, wellness and beauty routines. Innovation remains a key growth catalyst, with companies investing in science-backed formulations, clean beauty offerings and digital technologies to enhance customer engagement and expand their market reach.

At the same time, companies are navigating a cautious spending environment, elevated input costs and ongoing supply-chain uncertainties. To drive growth and remain competitive, industry players such as The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. (EL - Free Report) , e.l.f. Beauty, Inc. (ELF - Free Report) , Helen of Troy Limited (HELE - Free Report) and Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc. (NUS - Free Report) are focusing on omnichannel expansion, product innovation and operational efficiencies.

About the Industry The Zacks Cosmetics industry includes companies that provide beauty and personal care products. Players in the industry manufacture, distribute, sell and market skincare, fragrance, makeup and hair care products. Many firms in the market sell products via sales representatives, whereas some do the same through retailers, independent and chain drug stores and pharmacies, upscale perfumeries, department stores and beauty salons. These companies also operate through retailer websites, third-party distributors and in-flight and duty-free shops. Some products offered by industry participants include moisturizers, serums, toners and cleansers under skincare; perfume sprays, candles and soaps under fragrance; lipsticks, mascaras, powders, eye shadows, foundation and nail polishes under makeup; and shampoos, conditioners and hair color products under hair care.

Trends Shaping the Future of the Cosmetics Industry Innovation and Digitalization Driving Growth: Innovation and digitalization remain key growth drivers in the beauty and skincare market. Consumers are increasingly seeking differentiated products that combine advanced technology with science-backed formulations, prompting companies to continuously innovate and expand their offerings. Rising demand for clean, organic and wellness-focused beauty products is further supporting industry growth. Enhancing e-commerce capabilities remains a major focus, with virtual try-ons, seamless digital payment solutions and data-driven marketing helping brands improve customer engagement. In addition, strategic acquisitions and partnerships are enabling companies to broaden product portfolios and strengthen their competitive positioning.

Strong Demand for Skincare & Makeup: Demand for skincare and makeup products continues to support growth across the cosmetics industry. Consumers remain focused on self-care, wellness and personalized beauty solutions, driving interest in skincare products and daily beauty routines. Makeup demand also remains healthy, supported by product innovation, social media influence and evolving consumer preferences. In addition, fragrance and haircare categories are experiencing solid momentum, fueled by premiumization trends and new product launches. These trends are expected to continue creating growth opportunities for cosmetics companies.

Challenging Economic Conditions: The cosmetics industry continues to face challenges amid an uncertain macroeconomic environment. Ongoing trade tensions, cautious consumer spending and uneven retail inventory trends are influencing demand across several markets. While beauty products have generally demonstrated resilience, consumers remain value conscious and are increasingly selective in their discretionary purchases. At the same time, companies are facing higher costs for ingredients, packaging materials, logistics and promotional activities, which may pressure profit margins. Additionally, evolving trade policies and potential supply-chain disruptions could further increase costs and affect pricing strategies, creating a challenging and competitive operating environment.

Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Bright Prospects The Zacks Cosmetics industry is housed within the broader Zacks Consumer Staples sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #107, which places it in the top 43% of more than 247 Zacks industries.

The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates solid near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than two to one.

The industry’s position in the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries leads to a positive aggregate earnings outlook for the constituent companies. Since the beginning of April 2026, the industry’s consensus estimate for current financial-year earnings has increased 17%.

Before we present a few stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio, let’s look at the industry’s recent stock market performance and valuation picture.

Industry vs. Broader Market The Zacks Cosmetics industry has underperformed the S&P 500 composite and the broader Zacks Consumer Staples sector over the past year.

The industry has moved down 3.2% over this period, against the S&P 500 and the broader sector’s increase of 29.9% and 0.2%, respectively.

One-Year Price Performance

Industry's Current Valuation Based on the forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E), which is commonly used to value consumer staples stocks, the industry is currently trading at 20.19X compared with the S&P 500’s 21.76X and the sector’s 16.91X.

In the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 40.47X and as low as 20.19X, with the median being 28.81X, as the chart below shows.

Price-to-Earnings Ratio (Past Five Years)

4 Cosmetic Stocks Worth Considering The Estee Lauder Companies: This Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company manufactures and markets skincare, makeup, fragrance and hair care products through a portfolio of premium beauty brands. The company is focused on restoring profitability and driving long-term growth through its Profit Recovery and Growth Plan. EL’s “Beauty Reimagined” strategy is aimed at strengthening its position as a consumer-centric prestige beauty company by enhancing innovation, expanding across high-growth markets and digital channels, and improving operational efficiency. With a strong online presence, continued product innovation and investments in technology and data capabilities, the company remains focused on increasing agility, streamlining operations and supporting sustainable long-term growth. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EL’s current fiscal-year earnings per share (EPS) has remained unchanged in the past 30 days at $2.41. The stock has gained 17.1% in the past year.

Price and Consensus: EL

Helen of Troy: This provider of consumer products across the Beauty, Housewares and Health & Home segments carries a Zacks Rank #2. Helen of Troy focuses on strengthening its leadership brands through strategic investments in innovation, marketing and consumer engagement. The company is pursuing initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, improve supply-chain capabilities and support long-term growth. Through a data-driven and consumer-centric approach, it aims to strengthen brand fundamentals and drive market share gains. Helen of Troy is also expanding its international presence while investing in digital and e-commerce capabilities, positioning the business to capitalize on evolving consumer trends and create sustainable long-term value.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Helen of Troy’s current fiscal-year EPS has remained unchanged in the past 30 days at $3.44. The stock has risen 8.4% in the past year.

Price and Consensus: HELE

Nu Skin: This Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company develops and distributes a broad portfolio of beauty, personal care and wellness products. Nu Skin is focused on expanding its global presence through innovation, digital capabilities and customer engagement initiatives. The company continues to strengthen its brand portfolio with science-based products while leveraging technology to enhance personalized beauty and wellness solutions. Nu Skin is also pursuing opportunities in emerging markets through localized products and tailored business strategies designed to meet evolving consumer preferences. Supported by its direct-selling model, product innovation and ongoing investments in technology and operational efficiency, the company remains focused on driving long-term sustainable growth.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NUS’ current fiscal-year EPS has remained unchanged at $1.00 in the past 30 days. Shares of Nu Skin have declined 35% in the past year.

Price and Consensus: NUS

e.l.f. Beauty: This Zacks Rank #3 company offers a broad range of cosmetics and skincare products with a strong focus on delivering high-quality beauty products at accessible price points. e.l.f. Beauty has built a differentiated position through its value-driven proposition, combining affordability with innovation and strong consumer engagement. The company continues to support growth through digital capabilities, community-led marketing and a portfolio of complementary beauty brands. The company is also expanding its international presence, broadening distribution and strengthening reach across key markets. With a focus on inclusivity, product innovation and brand-building, e.l.f. Beauty remains well positioned to capitalize on long-term opportunities in the global beauty industry.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ELF’s current fiscal-year EPS moved down 8.6% in the past 30 days to $3.30. e.l.f. Beauty’s stock has fallen 46.7% in the past year.

Price and Consensus: ELF

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ROSWELL, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc. (the “Company” or “SiteOne”) (NYSE: SITE), extends a reminder to investors, analysts, and other stakeholders that it will host its 2026 Investor Day on June 23-24, 2026.

The formal presentation will begin at 8:00 a.m. ET on June 24 and will provide a comprehensive update on SiteOne’s performance, strategic priorities, and long-term initiatives, including additional detail on market opportunities, growth strategy, and the Company’s operating model.

Webcast Information

A live webcast of the formal presentation, along with related materials, will be available through the Investor Relations section of the SiteOne website at https://investors.siteone.com, or via the direct event link at SiteOne 2026 Investor Day.

A replay of the webcast and presentation materials will be made available following the event.

For additional information, please contact the SiteOne Investor Relations team at [email protected].

About SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc.

SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc. (NYSE: SITE), is the largest and only nation-wide full product line wholesale distributor of landscape supplies in the United States and has an established presence in Canada. Its customers are primarily residential and commercial landscape professionals who specialize in the design, installation and maintenance of lawns, gardens, golf courses and other outdoor spaces. https://www.siteone.com/

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Doximity (DOCS - Free Report) ended the recent trading session at $20.89, demonstrating a +1.02% change from the preceding day's closing price. The stock outpaced the S&P 500's daily loss of 0.57%. Meanwhile, the Dow experienced a rise of 0.64%, and the technology-dominated Nasdaq saw a decrease of 1.15%.

The stock of medical social networking site has risen by 5.62% in the past month, leading the Medical sector's gain of 4.28% and the S&P 500's gain of 2.14%.

Analysts and investors alike will be keeping a close eye on the performance of Doximity in its upcoming earnings disclosure. The company's upcoming EPS is projected at $0.29, signifying a 19.44% drop compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Alongside, our most recent consensus estimate is anticipating revenue of $151.7 million, indicating a 3.97% upward movement from the same quarter last year.

For the entire fiscal year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates are projecting earnings of $1.39 per share and a revenue of $670.18 million, representing changes of -8.55% and +3.93%, respectively, from the prior year.

Any recent changes to analyst estimates for Doximity should also be noted by investors. These revisions help to show the ever-changing nature of near-term business trends. Hence, positive alterations in estimates signify analyst optimism regarding the business and profitability.

Our research shows that these estimate changes are directly correlated with near-term stock prices. To capitalize on this, we've crafted the Zacks Rank, a unique model that incorporates these estimate changes and offers a practical rating system.

Ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), the Zacks Rank system has a proven, outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks returning an average of +25% annually since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has remained steady. At present, Doximity boasts a Zacks Rank of #5 (Strong Sell).

From a valuation perspective, Doximity is currently exchanging hands at a Forward P/E ratio of 14.89. This represents a discount compared to its industry average Forward P/E of 24.48.

It is also worth noting that DOCS currently has a PEG ratio of 2.12. The PEG ratio is akin to the commonly utilized P/E ratio, but this measure also incorporates the company's anticipated earnings growth rate. DOCS's industry had an average PEG ratio of 1.89 as of yesterday's close.

The Medical Info Systems industry is part of the Medical sector. Currently, this industry holds a Zacks Industry Rank of 173, positioning it in the bottom 30% of all 250+ industries.

The strength of our individual industry groups is measured by the Zacks Industry Rank, which is calculated based on the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within these groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.

To follow DOCS in the coming trading sessions, be sure to utilize Zacks.com.

Urban Outfitters NASDAQ: URBN was identified through one of MarketBeat's premier stock analysis tools. 

Urban Outfitters Today

URBN

Urban Outfitters

$76.42 0.00 (0.00%)

As of 06/18/2026 04:00 PM Eastern

52-Week Range$59.53▼

$84.35P/E Ratio14.67

Price Target$87.18

The Golden Crossovers screen highlights stocks whose moving averages indicate a potential shift in market momentum. A Golden Cross occurs when a stock's short-term moving average rises above its longer-term moving average—a technical signal that many investors interpret as the beginning of a sustained upward trend.

Urban Outfitters has been in the midst of this signal for years. Emerging in 2023, the original Golden Cross was unusual in that it involved not two but three critical exponential moving averages (EMAs), resulting in a sustained uptrend. The story as of mid-2026 is that the trend is intact and the market is rebounding in a textbook trend-following entry, with its own Golden Cross. This time, the cross is only two EMAs, but no less strong, given the price action preceding it and the forces that underlie it.

Get Urban Outfitters alerts:

Urban Outfitters Accelerates in Q1: Momentum BuildsUrban Outfitters had a solid Q1 earnings report, outperforming on both the top and bottom lines, driven by strength across brands and channels. Revenue of $1.48 billion grew by more than 11%, accelerating sequentially and year over year, setting a company record. The strength was underpinned by digital and Nuuly, the company’s fashion rental business. Nuuly is surprisingly strong, enabling consumers to rent apparel at a fixed monthly rate. The benefits to Urban Outfitters are a growing, visible, recurring revenue stream and higher margins.

Margin and profitability are central to URBN’s stock price outlook. The company is widening margins as revenue growth accelerates, driving better-than-expected profitability and cash flow. Outperformance was logged in earnings, but the critical details were cash flow, free cash flow, and the capital returns they enable. Free cash flow allowed a 5% year-over-year reduction in average Q1 share count and is expected to remain solid in upcoming quarters.

Urban Outfitters’ balance sheet reflects its strength and cash flow. Q1 highlights include a slight reduction in cash and equivalents, offset by increases in inventory, current and property. Liabilities also increased but only marginally, leaving equity up despite the aggressive buybacks. Equity increased by more than 800 basis points, putting total liabilities well below 1X and the business in fortress-like condition. Looking ahead, unencumbered free cash flow will likely be focused toward additional buybacks.

URBN: Near-term Headwinds Provide Volatility in Early 2026Robust as Urban Outfitters’ business and capital return outlook are, there are risks for investors to be aware of. The technical risk is a resistance point at $80. The market has failed to cross the level twice, once in Q4 2025 and then again at year’s end/New Year 2026, and may fail to do so again. In this scenario, URBN stock is range-bound, with a top near $80 and a bottom near $60, and is likely to continue moving sideways until later in the year. However, analysts indicate a move to new highs, so a more bullish result is likely.

Analysts' mixed response to URBN’s Q1 release is another risk, but one with less-than-bearish implications. The four analyst revisions MarketBeat tracked following the report include a reaffirmed target below consensus and a reduced target. However, one price target reduction to $100 merely lowered the high end, still forecasting nearly 30% of upside and a fresh all-time high. A move to the $87.18 consensus, which is trending higher in 2026, would also sufficient to set a fresh all-time high.

Institutional activity also aligns with URBN’s volatility in 2026. While the group bought throughout 2025, pushing price action to record levels, they reverted to selling in Q1 2026, helping cap gains. Early indications suggest they reverted to accumulation in Q2, helping to support prices and limit downside risk. The likely outcome is that this group continues to buy on dips but may not chase price action to new highs until a new catalyst emerges.

Short-sellers are likewise a risk to near-term price action. MarketBeat data reveals a moderately high 12% short interest as of early June, sufficient to limit upside in the absence of a strong bullish catalyst. The risk is that they sell into the market, capping gains at the $80 level. Catalysts for short-covering would include sustained strength, accelerating growth, margin gains, buybacks, and a move in URBN stock above $80.

Urban to $100: An Easy Move Once Fresh Highs Are SetUrban’s move to $100 is all but assured; the signs suggest it is only a matter of time as growth, cash flow, capital returns, and sell-side sentiment strengthen. Technical indications suggest $100 is a base-case target; the existing range is worth $20, and $20 projected from $80 is $100. The Bull Case scenario suggests this market can advance by more than 30% in the near to mid-term and then continue rallying.

Should You Invest $1,000 in Urban Outfitters Right Now?Before you consider Urban Outfitters, you'll want to hear this.

MarketBeat keeps track of Wall Street's top-rated and best performing research analysts and the stocks they recommend to their clients on a daily basis. MarketBeat has identified the five stocks that top analysts are quietly whispering to their clients to buy now before the broader market catches on... and Urban Outfitters wasn't on the list.

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Enter your email address and we’ll send you MarketBeat’s list of ten stocks set to soar in Summer 2026, despite the threat of tariffs and what's happening in Iran. These ten stocks are incredibly resilient and are likely to thrive in any economic environment.

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HubSpot Inc (NYSE:HUBS) stock saw a sharp surge in momentum score, jumping from 18.21 to 32.09  on a week-over-week basis.

A momentum score is a metric that evaluates how strongly a stock is trending by analyzing recent price movements and trading volume, helping indicate the strength and direction of its current trend.

HubSpot Expands Equity PlanAt its annual meeting held on Monday, investors voted in favor of adding 2.3 million shares to HubSpot's 2024 Stock Option and Incentive Plan, as reported by Investing.com

The move expands the company's ability to compensate employees with equity but also raises potential dilution concerns for existing shareholders.

Shareholders also re-elected five directors—Mike Berry, Claire Hughes Johnson, Yamini Rangan, Clara Shih and Jay Simons to the board for one-year terms.

The company confirmed that investors approved several additional proposals, including the ratification of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as its independent auditor for fiscal year 2026 and an advisory vote approving executive compensation.

A key governance change also passed, allowing shareholders who own at least 10% of HubSpot's outstanding shares to call a special meeting.

The proposal gives large investors greater leverage to push for corporate action between annual meetings.

Benzinga's Edge Stock Rankings provide a detailed view of HubSpot Inc's price structure, showing that its short-, medium-, and long-term trends have all shifted into negative territory based on the latest data.

HubSpot In AI Software WatchlistIn a post on X, Chief Market Strategist FuturumEquities Shay Boloor highlighted HubSpot as a key software company to watch, noting its role in unifying marketing, sales, and customer service into a single growth platform.

Price ActionHubSpot Inc. closed at $176.71 on Wednesday, down 3.36%, with pre-market trading up 1.13% on Thursday at the time of writing.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

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New commitment expands long-standing strategic partnership and builds on the success of two prior aircraft leasing portfolios

NEW YORK & SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KKR, a leading global investment firm, and Altavair, a leader in commercial aviation leasing and financing, today announced that KKR is making a $1.4 billion equity commitment to continue expanding its global portfolio of leased commercial aircraft in partnership with Altavair. The latest commitment builds on two prior aircraft leasing portfolios created in partnership with Altavair. The investment will primarily come from KKR’s Infrastructure and Asset-Based Finance strategies.

“Nearly a decade of strategic partnership with Altavair has deepened our conviction in the attractiveness of aircraft leasing, which we believe is poised to grow even further as demand for air travel continues to rise and airlines seek more liquidity and fleet flexibility,” said Brandon Freiman, Partner and Head of North American Infrastructure at KKR.

KKR-managed funds have committed more than $8 billion to aircraft leasing and lending transactions since KKR formed a strategic partnership with Altavair in 2018. Over that time, KKR and Altavair have acquired 188 commercial aircraft and engine assets through a variety of transactions, including lessor trades, airline-direct new and used sale leasebacks, passenger-to-freight conversions, and structured transactions, and in the process have leased aircraft and engines to 67 leading airline and cargo operators around the world.

“We are pleased to deepen our long-standing relationship with Altavair and strengthen our commitment to the aviation sector through our Asset-Based Finance strategy,” said Daniel Pietrzak, Partner and Global Head of Private Credit at KKR. “The success of our strategic partnership is a testament to the power of combining our patient, long-term capital with Altavair’s deep industry expertise and differentiated sourcing capabilities.”

“Our strategic partnership with KKR has grown stronger over the past eight years, and this latest commitment reflects the trust we have built together,” said Steve Rimmer, CEO of Altavair. “KKR’s expertise, and long-term capital have helped build Altavair into the platform it is today. As airlines face significant fleet funding needs in the coming years, this expanded commitment positions us to be an even stronger partner and supporter across the aviation ecosystem.”

KKR has invested more than $12 billion of capital in the aviation sector since 2015. Investments include Altavair, AV AirFinance, Atlantic Aviation, KKR DVB Aviation Capital, K2 Aviation, and others.

About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

About Altavair
Altavair is an aviation asset manager focusing on the acquisition of new and used commercial aircraft for leasing to domestic and international passenger airlines and cargo operators. Since its inception in 2003, Altavair has completed over $14.5 billion in commercial aircraft lease transactions with over 80 airline customers in 50 countries representing over 300 individual Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Altavair maintains offices in Seattle, Dublin, London, and Singapore. For more information, please visit www.altavair.com.

More News From KKR

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Trading information for KKR & Co is displayed on a screen on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, U.S., August 23, 2018. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab

CompaniesNEW YORK, June 17 (Reuters) - Private equity firm KKR (KKR.N), opens new tab on Wednesday disclosed a $1.4 billion fresh bet on aircraft leasing with partner Altavair, as persistent ​supply shortfalls at Airbus (AIR.PA), opens new tab and Boeing (BA.N), opens new tab keep plane availability tight.

Leasing companies ‌and private equity firms have been playing a bigger role in funding aircraft purchases as airlines face rising costs and recovering travel demand amid limited aircraft supply.

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Airlines now lease - ​or rent - rather than own about half of the global fleet, ​with KKR having invested more than $12 billion in aviation since ⁠2015.

Altavair focuses on acquiring new and used commercial aircraft and leasing them ​to passenger and cargo airlines worldwide.

Most of the capital is still free to ​be allocated, which will happen over the next four years, a person close to the transaction said.

KKR plans to source aircraft directly from airlines seeking to free up cash, as ​well as from manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing and through secondary ​market transactions.

These deals typically involve buying aircraft and leasing them back to carriers under multi-year ‌contracts, ⁠allowing airlines to raise cash while continuing to operate their fleets.

The firm is focusing on long-term leases with established airlines and cargo operators rather than distressed or bankruptcy situations, such as those involving Spirit Airlines, which ceased operations in May ​after failing to ​secure support for ⁠a government bailout plan, the person said.

Since 2018, KKR and Altavair have acquired 188 aircraft and engine assets and ​leased them to 67 airline and cargo customers globally.

Fuel price ​volatility ⁠and geopolitical tensions have limited near-term impact on such investments, as leases typically run for five to 10 years and provide predictable cash flows, the person said.

KKR has previously ⁠backed ​fleet transactions including a 2020 deal with Etihad Airways, which saw ​it acquire Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 aircraft and lease them back to the airline as ​part of its fleet transition strategy.

Reporting by Sabrina Valle; Editing by Stephen Coates

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab

NY-based correspondent reporting on some of the largest deals in Healthcare and Industrials. Previously based in Houston, covering global operations of U.S. oil majors. Sabrina has a two-decade career in Business reporting, with a strong background in source-based enterprise and investigations. She previously worked at Bloomberg, Washington Post and has been based in Rio and D.C. covering large corporations, including finance, corruption and geopolitics.

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Report is one of the most comprehensive, multi-year MSP outcomes analyses available in the industry

DELRAY BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tower MSA Partners, an industry-leading provider of Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) compliance and Medicare Set-Aside (MSA) services, today released the first-of-its-kind Workers’ Compensation Medicare Secondary Payer Outcomes & Regulatory Insights Report to serve as a benchmark for industry stakeholders evaluating their MSP strategy.

“MSP is no longer a technical compliance exercise – it is a lever that can be pulled to materially influence claim closure."

Share The comprehensive report was created utilizing a wide range of aggregated, anonymized performance metrics from 2022–2025 that combine clinical engagement, disciplined allocation methodology, CMS alignment controls, pharmacy mitigation strategy, and conditional payment resolution.

Loaded with impressive, quantifiable statistics and data, the report demonstrates that clients can experience significant MSA-related cost savings when a strong MSP strategy is in place. For instance, the report highlights that Tower’s services, including physician follow-up and pharmacy optimization, produced an average 47% reduction in MSA amounts in 2025, with annual reductions ranging from 33–64% from 2022 to 2025.

“Between 2022 and 2025, Tower MSA Partners delivered measurable, repeatable reductions in Medicare-related settlement exposure for workers’ compensation programs even when CMS MSA approval is required,” said Tower Chief Compliance Officer Daniel Anders. “This report demonstrates that MSP strategy can lead to significant benefits such as better control over allocated medications, quicker CMS MSA approval times, and an overall lower allocation for future medical care.”

Other key Tower outcomes in the report include:

Total MSA-related cost savings: Clinical interventions generated more than $9 million in savings in 2025 and approximately $9–12 million annually across the 2022–2025 period Lower CMS-approved MSAs versus CMS averages: Tower’s MSA preparation, mitigation and submission process resulted in CMS-approved MSAs that were 23% lower than the average CMS-approved MSA across all MSAs submitted to CMS Pharmacy and opioid outcomes: In 2025, 60% of CMS-approved Tower MSAs had $0 in Rx and 86% had $0 in opioids, with similarly high levels across 2022–2025 Process efficiency and appeals: MSA preparation turnaround time was consistently three days from receipt of complete documentation in 2022–2025, and CMS re-review appeals yielded success rates of 63–72% early in the period and 41–45% in 2024–2025 The 16-page report is broken down into five meticulously detailed sections: (1) Regulatory & Market Overview; (2) Tower Outcomes & Key Metrics; (3) Strategic Implications for Workers’ Compensation Programs; (4) Methodology; and (5) Next Steps for Workers’ Compensation Programs.

“This report essentially serves as a roadmap for the workers’ compensation industry,” said Anders. “MSP is no longer a technical compliance exercise – it is a lever that can be pulled to materially influence claim closure. We are honored to provide the entire industry with this tool, and we look forward to partnering with industry professionals who want to begin experiencing the benefits of a disciplined MSP framework.”

ABOUT TOWER MSA PARTNERS

Tower MSA Partners is an industry-leading provider of Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) compliance and Medicare Set-Aside (MSA) services. The company partners with insurers, self-insured employers, third-party administrators (TPAs), and attorneys to reduce claim costs, mitigate risks, and expedite workers' compensation and liability settlements.

Tower uses a proprietary MSP Automation Suite technology platform to help claims teams navigate complicated government regulations. Core service areas include CMS-compliant MSA allocations and cost-reduction strategies; resolving conditional payment demands and Medicare Advantage plan liens; assisting clients with mandatory CMS Section 111 reporting; and working to settle stagnant legacy claims.

To learn more, visit towermsa.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

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Here are two stocks with buy rank and strong value characteristics for investors to consider today, June 18:

Murphy USA Inc. MUSA: This retail fuel marketing company carries a Zacks Rank #1, and has witnessed the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increasing by 26.7% over the last 60 days.

Murphy has a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 17.64 compared with 29.50 for the industry. The company possesses a Value Scoreof B.

Paycom Software, Inc. PAYC: This cloud-based human capital management company carries a Zacks Rank #1, and has witnessed the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increasing by 2.8% over the last 60 days.

Paycom Software has a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 12.11 compared with 190.60 for the industry. The company possesses a Value Score of A.

See the full list of top ranked stocks here.

Learn more about the Value score and how it is calculated here.

Stocks hitting their 52-week high and delivering consistent performances offer attractive opportunities to investors while building a portfolio. This is because stocks near that level are perceived to be winners. However, stocks touching a new 52-week high are often predisposed to profit-taking, resulting in pullbacks and trend reversals.

Given the high price, investors often wonder if the stock is overpriced. While the speculations are not absolutely baseless, all stocks hitting a 52-week high are not necessarily overpriced.

Investors might lose out on top gainers in an attempt to avoid the steep prices.

 Stocks such as Murphy USA (MUSA - Free Report) , DaVita (DVA - Free Report) , Hewlett Packard (HPE - Free Report) and Vishay Intertechnology (VSH - Free Report) are expected to maintain their momentum and keep scaling new highs. Extensive information on a stock is necessary to understand whether or not there is scope for upside.

Here, we discuss a strategy to find the right stocks. The strategy borrows from the basics of momentum investing. This technique bets on “buy high, sell higher.”

We ran a screen to zero in on 52-week high stocks (trading near the high level) that hold tremendous upside potential. The screen includes parameters to shortlist stocks with strong earnings growth expectations, sturdy value metrics and price momentum.

Moreover, the screen filters stocks that are relatively undervalued compared to their peers in terms of earnings as well as sales, ensuring the continuation of their rally for some time.

Current Price/52 Week High >= .11: This is the ratio between the current price and the highest price at which the stock has traded in the past 52 weeks. A value greater than 0.11 implies that the stock is trading within 20% of its 52-week high range.

% Change Price – 4 Weeks > 0: It ensures that the stock price has moved north over the past four weeks.

% Change Price – 12 Weeks > 0: This metric guarantees a continued upward price momentum for the stock over the past three months as well.

Price/Sales <= XIndMed: The lower, the better.

P/E using F(1) Estimate <= XIndMed: This metric measures the amount an investor puts into a company to obtain one dollar of earnings. It narrows down the list of stocks to those that are undervalued compared to the industry.

1-Year EPS Growth F(1)/F(0) >= XIndMed: This helps choose stocks that have higher growth rates than the industry. This is a meaningful indicator, as decent earnings growth adds to investor optimism.

Zacks Rank <=2: No screening is complete without the Zacks Rank, which has proved its worth since its inception. It is a fundamental truth that stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or #2 (Buy) have always managed to brave adversities and beat the market average. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Current Price >= 8: This parameter will help screen stocks that are trading at $8 or higher.

Volume – 20 days (shares) >= 100000: The inclusion of this metric ensures that there is a substantial volume of shares, so trading is easier.

Here are our four picks out of the 22 stocks, each carrying a Zacks Rank #1, that made it through the screen:

Murphy USA's recent company disclosures point to a fuel-and-convenience retailer gaining steady momentum. April's first-quarter results showed fuel contribution strengthening to 35 cents per gallon and merchandise contribution dollars rising 7.3%. Management reaffirmed plans to open 45 to 55 new stores in 2026, with six already in service and 18 more under construction. In May, the board lifted the quarterly dividend to 64 cents per share, a 28% increase from a year earlier, and the company priced $500 million of senior notes carrying investment-grade ratings to refinance outstanding 2027 debt, extending maturities to 2034. That increased dividend was paid to shareholders on June 1, underscoring a disciplined, shareholder-friendly capital framework alongside continued investment in store growth and ongoing reinvestment programs.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings has moved 26.6% north to $32.32 per share in the past 60 days. MUSA surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 16.56%.

DaVita is set to enter the second half of 2026 on an encouraging footing. Management raised full-year guidance, lifting expected adjusted operating income to $2.15–$2.25 billion and adjusted EPS to $14.1–$15.2, alongside a $1–$1.25 billion free cash flow target. First-quarter revenues reached $3.42 billion, with U.S. dialysis treatment volumes and per-treatment reimbursement both improving year over year. The company served roughly 296,300 patients across 3,262 centers worldwide as of March 31, 2026, reflecting steady international expansion. Capital discipline remains a tailwind: DaVita repurchased 3 million shares in the first quarter, followed by another 2.0 million shares through early May, signaling continued confidence from leadership. With raised guidance, disciplined execution, and ongoing investment in integrated kidney care, DaVita looks well-positioned for steady near-term progress.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings has moved 6.4% north to $15.07 per share in the past 60 days. DVA’s earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate thrice in the trailing four quarters while missing the same once, the average surprise being 2.4%.

Hewlett Packard is gaining fundamental ground across its key business segments. Its April announcement expanded the ProLiant edge portfolio for AI and mission-critical workloads, broadening addressable use cases. By May, the company completed its H3C divestiture, receiving roughly $1.36 billion in proceeds and strengthening balance-sheet flexibility. Its second-quarter results in June showed record revenues, expanding margins and free cash flow well ahead of plan, prompting management to raise full-year revenues, EPS, and free-cash-flow guidance, alongside a new fiscal 2027 growth framework. Networking revenues surged on Juniper integration, while Cloud & AI margins improved meaningfully. With a steady dividend, disciplined cost execution and AI-networking momentum highlighted at Discover 2026, HPE's fundamentals point to a constructive near-term trajectory.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s fiscal 2026 earnings has moved 41.5% north to $3.41 per share in the past 60 days. HPE surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 15.97%.

Vishay Intertechnology enters the back half of 2026 with genuine operational momentum. First-quarter revenues reached $839.2 million with gross margin expanding to 21.0%. A 1.34 book-to-bill ratio—1.47 for semiconductors—signals demand outpacing shipments. Management guided second-quarter revenues to $875–905 million with gross margin near 22%, implying continued sequential improvement as the "Vishay 3.0" capacity investments mature. Its board reaffirmed a 10-cent quarterly dividend, which underscores balance-sheet discipline. Product momentum remains robust. April through June brought new FRED Pt rectifiers, automotive-grade optocouplers, high-current inductors, and a 200 A power module targeting EVs, solar inverters, and aerospace applications, which broadened Vishay's addressable end-markets. With a backlog of 5.7 months and rising lead-time competitiveness, its fundamentals point toward a constructive near-term setup.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings has increased by 47.1% to 75 cents per share in the past 60 days. VSH’s earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate twice in the trailing four quarters, while missing the same twice, the average negative surprise being 108.33%.

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (ASTS - Free Report) closed at $82.25 in the latest trading session, marking a -6.08% move from the prior day. This change lagged the S&P 500's daily loss of 0.57%. Elsewhere, the Dow saw an upswing of 0.64%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq depreciated by 1.15%.

Prior to today's trading, shares of the company had gained 0.85% lagged the Computer and Technology sector's gain of 2.85% and the S&P 500's gain of 2.14%.

The investment community will be paying close attention to the earnings performance of AST SpaceMobile, Inc. in its upcoming release. It is anticipated that the company will report an EPS of -$0.28, marking a 31.71% rise compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Meanwhile, the latest consensus estimate predicts the revenue to be $34.32 million, indicating a 2858.28% increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year.

For the entire fiscal year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates are projecting earnings of -$1.47 per share and a revenue of $164.76 million, representing changes of -9.7% and +132.32%, respectively, from the prior year.

It's also important for investors to be aware of any recent modifications to analyst estimates for AST SpaceMobile, Inc. These revisions help to show the ever-changing nature of near-term business trends. As a result, upbeat changes in estimates indicate analysts' favorable outlook on the business health and profitability.

Research indicates that these estimate revisions are directly correlated with near-term share price momentum. To utilize this, we have created the Zacks Rank, a proprietary model that integrates these estimate changes and provides a functional rating system.

Ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), the Zacks Rank system has a proven, outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks returning an average of +25% annually since 1988. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has remained unchanged. AST SpaceMobile, Inc. is currently sporting a Zacks Rank of #4 (Sell).

The Wireless Equipment industry is part of the Computer and Technology sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 213, putting it in the bottom 13% of all 250+ industries.

The Zacks Industry Rank assesses the strength of our separate industry groups by calculating the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks contained within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.

Make sure to utilize Zacks.com to follow all of these stock-moving metrics, and more, in the coming trading sessions.

BlueBird satellites are the largest commercial communications arrays ever deployed in low Earth orbit, measuring approximately 2,400 square feet, for government and commercial use

BlueBird satellites are designed to enable peak data speeds of nearly 200 Mbps directly to standard smartphones, enabling voice, broadband data, and video from space

BlueBird satellites through BlueBird 37 in production, while BlueBirds 11, 12, and 13 are in final preparations for shipment to Cape Canaveral

MIDLAND, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (“AST SpaceMobile”) (NASDAQ: ASTS), the company building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by everyday smartphones, designed for both commercial and government applications, today announced the successful orbital launch of its BlueBirds 8, 9, and 10 satellites.

The BlueBird 8, 9, 10 mission lifted off at 2:39 EDT on Wednesday, June 17, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, marking another important milestone in AST SpaceMobile’s continued network deployment enabling true space-based cellular broadband connectivity directly to everyday smartphones.

BlueBirds 8, 9, and 10 satellites are the largest commercial communications arrays ever deployed in low Earth orbit, measuring approximately 2,400 square feet. Their expansive antenna arrays enable direct, reliable connectivity to standard smartphones, with high power generation in orbit. The result is more targeted coverage, reduced interference, increased capacity, and seamless cellular broadband experience. These next-generation satellites are designed to deliver nearly double the peak data speeds of the company's initial Block 1 BlueBird satellites, which recently achieved peak download speeds of 98.9 Mbps directly to standard smartphones, supporting voice, broadband data, and video applications from space.

“BlueBirds 8, 9, and 10 represent the continued execution of a vision once considered impossible: space-based cellular broadband to everyone, everywhere” said Abel Avellan, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of AST SpaceMobile. “Our team has built a new class of space-based cellular broadband technology that connects seamlessly to everyday smartphones. This is a fundamental transformation of how the world connects. We invented this market, and we are executing and advancing our network to make global, space-based cellular broadband a reality.”

“This first stacked launch is just the beginning,” Avellan added. “BlueBirds 11, 12, and 13 will ship shortly for our next launch, while next-generation BlueBird satellites through BlueBird 37 are already in active production and assembly Our focus is firmly on execution: scaling launch cadence, manufacturing, and preparing for commercial service.”

Each launch advances the company’s goal of delivering seamless, space-based cellular broadband integrated with terrestrial mobile networks, leveraging a flexible spectrum strategy across both partner and AST SpaceMobile spectrum, together with standard 4G and 5G devices.

BlueBird satellites are assembled, integrated, and tested at AST SpaceMobile’s facilities in Midland Texas, reflecting the company’s commitment to U.S.-based innovation and manufacturing. AST SpaceMobile now operates over 500,000 square feet of manufacturing and operations facilities worldwide, supported by a 2,250+ workforce, and a technology platform backed by over 3,900 patents and patent-pending claims.

As the constellation grows, the company progresses toward initial service activation and continuous coverage across key markets including the United States, Canada, Europe, Saudi Arabia, and Japan, in collaboration with leading mobile network operators AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Rakuten, Bell, Telus, and stc Group, as well as the U.S. Government and other strategic markets.

AST SpaceMobile has agreements with nearly 60 mobile network operators globally representing more than 3 billion subscribers combined, together with strategic partnerships with AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Rakuten, Google, Bell, Telus, stc Group, and American Tower.

About AST SpaceMobile

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio, and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to enable 4G and 5G space-based cellular broadband to every device, everywhere, for today’s nearly 6 billion mobile subscribers globally. For more information, follow AST SpaceMobile on YouTube, X (Formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and Facebook. Watch this video for an overview of the SpaceMobile mission.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains “forward-looking statements” that are not historical facts, and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results of AST SpaceMobile to differ materially from those expected and projected. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the words “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “potential,” “projects,” “predicts,” “continue,” or “should,” or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results. Most of these factors are outside AST SpaceMobile’s control and are difficult to predict.

Factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (i) expectations regarding AST SpaceMobile’s strategies and future financial performance, including AST’s future business plans or objectives, expected functionality of the SpaceMobile Service, anticipated timing of the launch of the Block 2 BlueBird satellites, anticipated demand and acceptance of mobile satellite services, prospective performance and commercial opportunities and competitors, the timing of obtaining regulatory approvals, ability to finance its research and development activities, commercial partnership acquisition and retention, products and services, pricing, marketing plans, operating expenses, market trends, revenues, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and AST SpaceMobile’s ability to invest in growth initiatives; (ii) the negotiation of definitive agreements with mobile network operators relating to the SpaceMobile Service that would supersede preliminary agreements and memoranda of understanding and the ability to enter into commercial agreements with other parties or government entities; (iii) the ability of AST SpaceMobile to grow and manage growth profitably and retain its key employees and AST SpaceMobile’s responses to actions of its competitors and its ability to effectively compete; (iv) changes in applicable laws or regulations; (v) the possibility that AST SpaceMobile may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; (vi) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against AST SpaceMobile; and (vii) other risks and uncertainties indicated in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including those in the Risk Factors section of AST SpaceMobile’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 2, 2026, its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2026 filed with the SEC on May 11, 2026 and the future reports that it may file from time to time with the SEC.

AST SpaceMobile cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. AST SpaceMobile cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. For information identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the Risk Factors in AST SpaceMobile’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 2, 2026, its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2026 filed with the SEC on May 11, 2026 and the future reports that it may file from time to time with the SEC. AST SpaceMobile’s securities filings can be accessed on the EDGAR section of the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Except as expressly required by applicable securities law, AST SpaceMobile disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

More News From AST SpaceMobile, Inc.

Stock futures are little changed Wednesday morning, with Dow Jones Industrial  Average (DJI) and S&P 500 (SPX) futures hovering near the flatline, after the blue-chip index closed at another record high in the previous session. Nasdaq-100 (IXIC) futures are up triple digits, pointing to a stronger open for tech and semiconductor stocks. 

Investors are weighing higher oil prices after President Donald Trump signaled a final agreement with Iran has yet to be reached, and would "go right back to dropping bombs” if the agreement doesn't meet his standards. Attention now turns to the Federal Reserve’s latest interest rate decision at 2:00 p.m., and new Chairman Kevin Warsh’s first post-meeting press conference. Investors are expecting rates to remain unchanged. 

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

Faltering homebuilding stock rebounds before earnings.  Senior Quantitative Analyst Rocky White compares SPCX's historical debut among others.  Plus, INTC rebounds, streaming favorite turned LION away, ASTS' satellite launch.

5 Things You Need to Know Today The Cboe Options Exchange saw more than 2.4 million call contracts and 1.4 million put contracts traded on Tuesday. The single-session equity put/call ratio rose to 0.59, while the 21-day moving average remained at 0.59.  Chipmaker Intel Corp (NASDAQ:INTC) is up 2.7% ahead of the open, as the company enters the initial production of its chip manufacturing segment. Intel stock is not far off its May 11 record high of $132.75, and is up 217% in 2026. Lionsgate Studios Corp (NYSE:LION) has shed 5.5% in premarket trading after Netflix (NFLX) squashed rumors about acquiring the media conglomerate. Shares reached an all-time high of $16.70 yesterday, though today's pullback has LION poised to snap a five-day win streak.  Jumping off its successful BlueBird trio satellite launch, AST SpaceMobile (NYSE:ASTS) shares are 6% higher before the open, with optimism that the company will continue to build its cellular broadband network in space. Carrying a 27% month-to-date deficit, ASTS is looking to rebound off the $80 level and add to its 96% year-over-year gain.  Investors are tuning in to more than the Fed interest rate decision this week. 

Kospi Leads Asian Markets Higher Asian markets closed mostly higher on Wednesday. China's State Council issued a new five-year employment plan, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining labor market stability, while the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) announced it was deepening control over short-term money markets. The South Korean Kospi led the regional gains with a 1.6% rise, while Japan’s Nikkei jumped 0.7%, and China’s Shanghai Composite tacked on 0.4%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was the only loser, shedding 0.7%.

European markets are trading with caution today. London’s FTSE 100 was last seen down 0.03%, while the German DAX falls 0.1%, and the French CAC 40 rises 0.1%.

AST SpaceMobile ASTS shares moved higher on Wednesday after the company successfully launched three of its largest communications satellites aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

The launch marked an important milestone in its effort to build a space-based cellular broadband network.

The launch sent BlueBird 8, 9, and 10 into orbit from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 2:39 a.m. EDT.

Investors welcomed the development following a setback earlier this year when a previous satellite mission was lost after a failed launch involving Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket.

AST SpaceMobile shares gained 4% in trading following the successful deployment, while SpaceX shares moved lower, taking a breather after its blistering rally.

The latest satellites are the largest and most advanced spacecraft deployed by AST SpaceMobile to date.

Each satellite features an antenna array spanning approximately 2,400 square feet, making it among the largest commercial communications arrays placed into low Earth orbit.

The company said the Block 2 BlueBird satellites are designed to deliver peak data speeds of nearly 200 Mbps directly to standard smartphones.

That represents a significant improvement from the 98.9 Mbps peak download speeds achieved by the company's first-generation Block 1 satellites.

AST SpaceMobile is developing a satellite network capable of connecting directly to existing 4G and 5G smartphones without requiring users to purchase specialized satellite hardware.

The company believes the technology will support voice calls, broadband internet access, and video services through space-based connectivity.

The launch increases AST SpaceMobile's total satellite count in orbit to nine.

However, investors are expected to closely monitor the next phase of the mission, as confirmation that the satellites have successfully unfolded and are operating correctly may take several weeks.

The mission also highlights SpaceX's dominant position in the commercial launch industry.

While SpaceX provided launch services for AST SpaceMobile, the companies are simultaneously competing in the rapidly developing direct-to-device satellite communications market.

SpaceX's Starlink Mobile initiative aims to provide broadband-quality smartphone connectivity from space and is targeting commercial availability by the end of next year.

Despite the competitive dynamic, AST SpaceMobile continues to rely on SpaceX's Falcon 9 launch capabilities as it builds its satellite constellation.

The successful launch also helps ease concerns that emerged following the failed Blue Origin mission in April, which raised questions about AST SpaceMobile's ability to reach its goal of placing at least 45 satellites into orbit by the end of the year.

AST SpaceMobile said BlueBirds 11, 12, and 13 are already being prepared for shipment to Cape Canaveral ahead of future launches.

The company also confirmed that next-generation satellites through BlueBird 37 are currently in production and assembly at its facilities in Midland, Texas.

AST SpaceMobile operates more than 500,000 square feet of manufacturing and operations facilities worldwide and employs over 2,250 people.

The company said it holds more than 3,900 patents and patent-pending claims.

The company has agreements with nearly 60 mobile network operators representing more than 3 billion subscribers globally, including partnerships with AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Rakuten, Google, Bell, Telus, stc Group, and American Tower.

Founder, Chairman, and CEO Abel Avellan said the launch represents "the continued execution of a vision once considered impossible: space-based cellular broadband to everyone, everywhere."

As AST SpaceMobile continues expanding its constellation and preparing for commercial service, investors remain focused on whether the company can successfully scale deployment and deliver direct-to-smartphone connectivity at a global level.

AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) rose 5.08% intraday after confirming the successful orbital launch of BlueBirds 8, 9, and 10, aboard a SpaceX (SPCX) Falcon 9 from Cape C