Meta Platforms (META - 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.
Shares of this social media company have returned -14.5% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. The Zacks Internet - Software industry, to which Meta Platforms belongs, has lost 5.8% over this period. Now the key question is: Where could the stock be headed in the near term?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
Earnings Estimate RevisionsHere at Zacks, we prioritize appraising the change in the projection of a company's future earnings over anything else. That's because we believe the present value of its future stream of earnings is what determines the fair value for its stock.
Our analysis is essentially based on how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to take the latest business trends into account. When earnings estimates for a company go up, the fair value for its stock goes up as well. And when a stock's fair value is higher than its current market price, investors tend to buy the stock, resulting in its price moving upward. Because of this, empirical studies indicate a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price movements.
For the current quarter, Meta Platforms is expected to post earnings of $8.12 per share, indicating a change of -8.6% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed +0.5% over the last 30 days.
For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $29.57 points to a change of +25.9% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed +2%.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $33.78 indicates a change of +14.2% from what Meta Platforms is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -1.5%.
With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is a more conclusive indicator of a stock's near-term price performance, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Meta Platforms.
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.
In the case of Meta Platforms, the consensus sales estimate of $75.05 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +25.3%. The $255.63 billion and $311 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +27.2% and +21.7%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryMeta Platforms reported revenues of $64.6 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +26.1%. EPS of $7.4 for the same period compares with $7.25 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $63.41 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +1.88%. The EPS surprise was +13.5%.
Over the last four quarters, Meta Platforms surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time over this period.
ValuationWithout considering a stock's valuation, no investment decision can be efficient. In predicting a stock's future price performance, it's crucial to determine whether its current price correctly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
As part of the Zacks Style Scores system, the Zacks Value Style Score (which evaluates both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics) organizes stocks into five groups ranging from A to F (A is better than B; B is better than C; and so on), making it helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
Meta Platforms is graded C on this front, indicating that it is trading at par with 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 Meta Platforms. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Have you looked into how Tesla (TSLA - Free Report) performed internationally during the quarter ending September 2026? Considering the widespread global presence of this electric car maker, examining the trends in international revenues is essential for assessing its financial resilience and prospects for growth.
In the current era of a tightly interconnected global economy, the proficiency of a company to penetrate international markets significantly influences its financial health and trajectory of growth. For investors, the key is to grasp how reliant a company is on overseas markets, as this provides insights into the durability of its earnings, its ability to exploit different economic cycles, and its overall growth capabilities.
Being present in foreign markets serves as protection against local economic declines and helps benefit from more rapidly expanding economies. Yet, such expansion also introduces challenges related to currency fluctuations, geopolitical uncertainties and varied market behaviors.
Upon examining TSLA's recent quarterly performance, we noticed several interesting patterns in the revenue generated from its international segments, which are commonly analyzed and observed by Wall Street experts.
For the quarter, the company's total revenue amounted to $28.05 billion, experiencing a decline of 0.2% year over year. Next, we'll explore the breakdown of TSLA's international revenue to understand the importance of its overseas business operations.
Trends in TSLA's Revenue from International MarketsDuring the quarter, China contributed $5.21 billion in revenue, making up 18.6% of the total revenue. When compared to the consensus estimate of $5.68 billion, this meant a surprise of -8.25%. Looking back, China contributed $4.68 billion, or 16.6%, in the previous quarter, and $5.65 billion, or 20.1%, in the same quarter of the previous year.
Other International generated $10.34 billion in revenues for the company in the last quarter, constituting 36.9% of the total. This represented a surprise of +12.82% compared to the $9.17 billion projected by Wall Street analysts. Comparatively, in the previous quarter, Other International accounted for $10.35 billion (36.7%), and in the year-ago quarter, it contributed $7.84 billion (27.9%) to the total revenue.
Anticipated Revenues in Overseas MarketsFor the current fiscal quarter, it is anticipated by Wall Street analysts that Tesla will post revenues of $28.64 billion, which reflects an increase of 15% the same quarter in the previous year. The revenue contributions are expected to be 19.8% from China ($5.67 billion), and 32.4% from Other International ($9.27 billion).
For the full year, a total revenue of $106.35 billion is expected for the company, reflecting an increase of 12.2% from the year before. The revenues from China and Other International are expected to make up 19%, and 34.2% of this total, corresponding to $20.2 billion, and $36.32 billion, respectively.
In ConclusionTesla's leaning on foreign markets for its revenue stream presents a mix of chances and challenges. Therefore, a vigilant watch on its international revenue movements can greatly aid in projecting the company's future direction.
In an environment where global interconnections and geopolitical skirmishes are intensifying, Wall Street analysts keep a keen eye on these trends, particularly for firms with overseas operations, to adjust their earnings predictions. Moreover, a range of other aspects, including how a company fares in its home country, significantly affects these projections.
Here at Zacks, we put a great deal of emphasis on a company's changing earnings outlook, as empirical research has shown that's a powerful force driving a stock's near-term price performance. Quite naturally, the correlation is positive here -- an upward revision in earnings estimates drives the stock price higher.
With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool - the Zacks Rank - harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions and serves as an effective indicator of a stock's near-term price performance.
Tesla, bearing a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), is expected to mirror the broader market's movements in the near term. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Assessing Tesla's Stock Price Movement in Recent TimesThe stock delivered no returns over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's a decrease of 1.2%. In the same interval, the Zacks Auto-Tires-Trucks sector, to which Tesla belongs, has registered a decrease of 2%. Over the past three months, the company's shares saw an increase of 19.6%, while the S&P 500 increased by 2.5%. In comparison, the sector experienced a decline of 2.4% during this timeframe.
Analysts on Wall Street project that Amazon (AMZN - Free Report) will announce quarterly earnings of $2.01 per share in its forthcoming report, representing an increase of 3.1% year over year. Revenues are projected to reach $202.11 billion, increasing 12.2% from the same quarter last year.
Over the past 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been adjusted downward by 0.4% to its current level. This demonstrates the covering analysts' collective reassessment of their initial projections during this period.
Ahead of a company's earnings disclosure, it is crucial to give due consideration to changes in earnings estimates. These revisions serve as a noteworthy factor in predicting potential investor reactions to the stock. Numerous empirical studies consistently demonstrate a strong relationship between trends in earnings estimate revision and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While it's common for investors to rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates for assessing how the business may have performed during the quarter, exploring analysts' forecasts for key metrics can yield valuable insights.
Given this perspective, it's time to examine the average forecasts of specific Amazon metrics that are routinely monitored and predicted by Wall Street analysts.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Net Sales- AWS' reaching $45.42 billion. The estimate points to a change of +37.6% from the year-ago quarter.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Net Sales- North America' will reach $113.39 billion. The estimate points to a change of +6.7% from the year-ago quarter.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Net Sales- International' of $43.21 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +5.7%.
Analysts expect 'Net Sales- Advertising services' to come in at $20.87 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +17.9% year over year.
The consensus estimate for 'Net Sales- Online stores' stands at $69.56 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +3.2%.
Analysts forecast 'Net Sales- Subscription services' to reach $13.69 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +8.9% year over year.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Net Sales- Other' at $1.60 billion. The estimate points to a change of +13.2% from the year-ago quarter.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Net Sales- Third-party seller services' should arrive at $44.83 billion. The estimate points to a change of +5.5% from the year-ago quarter.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Net Sales- Physical stores' should come in at $5.74 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +2.9% from the prior-year quarter.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Subscription services - Y/Y Change' will reach 9.0%. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of 11.0%.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Online stores - Y/Y Change' will likely reach 3.4%. Compared to the current estimate, the company reported 10.0% in the same quarter of the previous year.
Analysts predict that the 'Third-party seller services - Y/Y Change' will reach 5.8%. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of 12.0%.
View all Key Company Metrics for Amazon here>>>
Over the past month, shares of Amazon have returned -0.7% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. Currently, AMZN carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), suggesting that its performance may align with the overall market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
AMD has surged 156% this year while NVIDIA still dwarfs it on margins and data center scale, and the distance between those two realities is exactly what will determine whether AMD stock breaks out or stalls from here.
The 24/7 Wall St. price target for AMD (NASDAQ:AMD | AMD Price Prediction) is $546.06 over the next 12 months. That means 1.23% upside from the most recent close of $539.43.
Metric Value Current Price $539.43 24/7 Wall St. Price Target $546.06 Upside/Downside 1.23% Recommendation HOLD Confidence Level 90% AMD gets a hold rating from our model with high confidence. After a huge 2026 run, the stock sits near fair value.
The gap with NVIDIA (NASDAQ:NVDA) in data center scale and margins is still wide, and how much of it AMD closes through the Helios and MI450 ramp will decide where the shares go next.
A 156% Rally Hits an October Air Pocket AMD shares fell 9.31% over the past week and 1.91% over the past month. They are still up 156.42% year to date, compared with 18.43% for NVIDIA. The stock trades about 18% below its 52-week high of $658.52 and about 187% off its low.
In the second quarter, revenue came in at $11.54 billion, up 50.11% and ahead of the $11.31 billion estimate. Non-GAAP EPS of $1.66 beat the $1.6107 consensus. Data Center revenue grew 107% to $6.72 billion, and management guided third-quarter revenue to about $13 billion.
Why Bulls See $689 Within Reach Management says Helios delivers “up to 15% more throughput at the same rack power and up to 30% more tokens per dollar than the competition.” Anchor commitments include OpenAI at 6 GW, Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) at up to 6 GW and Anthropic at up to 2 GW.
AMD expects Data Center revenue to more than double in 2027, and Lisa Su expects to “significantly exceed” the company’s $20 annual EPS target.
Wall Street agrees: 45 analysts rate the stock Buy or Strong Buy, and none rate it Sell. If the optimistic scenario plays out, our model points to $689.35.
What Could Drag AMD Toward $433 AMD trades at a trailing P/E of 201x. NVIDIA’s Data Center revenue of $89.02 billion is about 13x AMD’s. CFO Jean Hu said that data center AI gross margin is “slightly below corporate average” during the ramp, and Helios yields are still improving.
Gaming revenue fell 31%. Free cash flow slid 9.89%, though that reflects capex rising 186.52% to fund capacity for the ramp. The bear case is $433.06.
AMD vs. NVIDIA and Broadcom on Scale and Growth NVIDIA is the GPU target AMD is chasing. Its trailing P/E of 44x is about in line with AMD’s forward multiple of 43x, and it gets a 75% non-GAAP gross margin against AMD’s 56%.
Broadcom (NASDAQ:AVGO) vies for the same hyperscaler budgets with custom silicon. Its AI semiconductor revenue reached $16.70 billion, up 221%. Both rivals are growing faster today, which makes our target look reasonable.
Company Market Cap Latest-Quarter Revenue Growth AMD $895.27B 50.11% NVIDIA $5.33T 105.85% Broadcom $1.61T 85.5% AMD Price Prediction 2026-2030 I rate AMD a hold with a 24/7 Wall St. price target of $546.06 and 90% confidence. Valuation tips the scale: the 2027 ramp already looks largely priced in.
I would turn more constructive if fourth-quarter Helios shipments step up on schedule and gross margins hold at 56% or better. I would remain conservative if yields lag or customer build-outs slid into late 2027.
The 24/7 Wall St. price target model projects where AMD could trade, assuming current trends hold.
Year 24/7 Wall St. Price Target 2026 $557.08 2027 $546.06 2028 $559.92 2029 $601.18 2030 $598.86 AMD needs to keep executing on its roadmap for these projections to hold. The biggest swing factors are the MI500 launch, which could add upside, and tighter export controls, which could take it away.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
SummaryAdvanced Micro Devices receives a Strong Buy rating, with valuation now at 33x 2027 earnings, 22% below its high, despite an improved earnings outlook.Market concerns center on AI customer spending, but I see AMD’s EPYC server CPU business—forecasting a $220B market—as a major, underappreciated growth driver.Fourth-quarter guidance is key; a midpoint near $17B revenue and >70% server CPU growth outlook would reinforce the bullish thesis.Warrants tied to AI GPU deals could dilute shares by up to 19%, but dilution is offset by accretive revenue and profit from these major customer commitments.Getty Images
In September, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) started shipping its first complete AI server rack, called Helios, so you'd think the stock would have had a good October. But instead, it lost about a fifth of its value, and from what I can
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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
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Nokia uzavřela s L&T Technology Services pětiletou smlouvu na výzkum a vývoj infrastruktury pro umělou inteligenci v Indii; akcie v ranním obchodování vzrostly o 3 %.
Nokia just signed a five-year engineering deal that reaches deep into its AI infrastructure strategy, and the market responded fast. Whether that reaction holds depends on tensions Nokia flagged just last week.
A new India engineering partnership is pushing the AI infrastructure strategy at Nokia (NYSE:NOK | NOK Price Prediction) deeper into its technology base, and the network equipment maker is drawing buyers as a result. In morning trading, Nokia stock is up 3% to $8.35, a rebound that signals renewed appetite for the company’s AI-era network story. Stretching its engineering bench into India gives Nokia added resources for its fastest-growing business, which serves cloud and AI customers.
Meanwhile, Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) stock is up 1% to $10.77, a smaller advance that leaves Nokia stock leading the two large carrier equipment names. Both companies compete for the same operator contracts, so the gap between their moves stands out, as that gap tracks a company-specific catalyst at Nokia that Ericsson doesn’t share.
Measured against the major index funds, the jump in Nokia stock looks even stronger. The iShares U.S. Technology ETF (NYSEARCA:IYW) is up 0.4% to $250.90, a modest gain for the sector fund. Also, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (NYSEARCA:SPY) is up 0.5% to $763.46, leaving both funds well short of the move in Nokia stock.
India Engineering Deal Sparks Nokia Rally
Nokia signed a five-year contract, announced before U.S. markets opened, to support its engineering and research and development (R&D) work in India. L&T Technology Services is the partner, and it will set up a dedicated offshore development center along with an engineering team serving Nokia’s global technology operations. Work under the agreement spans next-generation wireless networks, intelligent automation, AI-driven operations and AI infrastructure, which lines up closely with the areas Nokia has tied to its growth plans.
This deal follows Nokia’s Q3 2026 results last week. Management highlighted AI and cloud customers as its fastest-growing business and pointed to quicker expansion in optical and data networking next year. Those same results showed supply constraints, higher restructuring costs and a lower cash conversion assumption, and Nokia stock fell sharply on the day they were released, yet against that background, the India contract signals that Nokia is still building engineering capacity to meet AI demand while it works through near-term friction.
Nokia’s AI Data Center Edge Sets It Apart From Ericsson
Nokia and Ericsson are the two large U.S.-listed suppliers of radio access and carrier transport equipment. Both sell to telecom operators whose overall spending Nokia expects to stay broadly flat.
Beyond carrier gear, Nokia sells optical and data networking equipment to cloud and AI data center customers, which management describes as the fastest-growing part of its business. Hyperscale build-outs give Nokia a growth path tied directly to AI infrastructure spending (we covered seven suppliers riding that same wave, from power to networking, in a free report here). Adding India-based engineers focused on AI infrastructure feeds that same engine.
Ericsson stock is trailing the advance in Nokia shares, leaving the carrier equipment gains led by the name with the clearer AI data center story. On the positive side, Ericsson stands as one of only two large U.S.-listed carrier equipment suppliers, which gives it scale with telecom operators. However, broadly flat operator spending remains a core risk for both companies.
What the India Deal Means for Nokia’s AI Push
This India agreement extends Nokia’s AI infrastructure push from its sales pipeline into its R&D base. A dedicated offshore team could help Nokia bring products to cloud and AI customers faster, which matters most if demand from those buyers keeps climbing. Extra engineering muscle won’t solve hardware shortages by itself, though.
Until supply eases, Nokia stock may stay sensitive to any update on restructuring or cash conversion. Investors weighing their NOK stock exposure should adjust their holdings carefully given those unresolved supply constraints.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Greg Abel zvýšil podíl akcií Alphabetu v portfoliu Berkshire Hathaway na 9,4 %; objem nevyřízených cloudových zakázek Alphabetu dosáhl 514 miliard USD, což představuje mezikvartální nárůst o 50 %.
Berkshire Hathaway (BRKA +0.33%) (BRKB +0.38%) CEO Greg Abel has made several significant changes to the $299 billion portfolio since he took over in January. The biggest change so far appears to be its concentration. The portfolio has shrunk to 29 stocks from 42 at the end of 2025, while assets have grown by 9%, from $274 billion to $299 billion.
The top five holdings made up around 70% of the portfolio at the end of 2025, when Warren Buffett stepped down as CEO. After the second quarter of 2026, the top five holdings were still right around 70%, 69% to be exact, but there is one notable difference.
Currently, Apple is the largest position at 22%, followed by American Express at 17.1%, Coca-Cola at 10.9%, Alphabet (GOOG +0.01%) (GOOGL +0.09%) at 9.4%, and Bank of America at 9.2%.
At the end of 2025, Apple was at 22.6%, American Express was at 20.5%, Bank of America was at 10.4%, Coca-Cola was at 10.2%, and Chevron was at 7.2%. Google's parent, Alphabet, accounted for just 2% of the portfolio and was the 10th-largest holding.
Aside from exiting more than a dozen positions, Abel's biggest move over the first two quarters has been piling assets into Alphabet. And when the third-quarter 13F comes out, I would not be shocked to see Abel boost his position in Alphabet even further.
Here's why Alphabet is a top buy in October.
A $514 billion backlog
Hedge fund managers were increasing their holdings of Alphabet stock in September, according to the latest Data Insights Crowding Report. The trend will likely continue in October mainly due to Alphabet's cheap valuation. The stock is trading at 16 times earnings. It hasn't been this cheap in at least 14 years going back to 2012, and probably longer.
But that is a bit misleading because the P/E was skewed lower in Q2 after Alphabet had a massive earnings gain of 335% year over year to $112 billion. About $98 billion of that came primarily from equity investments in Space Exploration Technologies and Anthropic.
GOOG Alphabet$317.31+$0.03 (+0.01%)
NASDAQ · As of 11:17 AM ET 10/26/26
But thes stock's forward P/E is still fairly low at 22, and it has a booming backlog of $514 billion within its cloud business, up 50% from the previous quarter. That's more than double the $240 billion backlog that Alphabet had at the end of 2025.
On the second-quarter earnings call, Alphabet CFO Anat Ashkenazi said the company expects to recognize just over 50% of the total cloud backlog as revenue over the next 24 months.
Apple to Alphabet
Alphabet presents an opportunity that Abel will likely not pass up like his predecessor, Buffett. Some 10 years ago, in the first quarter of 2016, Buffett bought Apple stock for the first time after its valuation sank with a price-to-earnings ratio of 10 -- its lowest in years at the time. Buffett kept loading up on Apple over the next several quarters, and by the end of 2017, it was Berkshire Hathaway's largest holding.
I expect to see a similar pattern here with Abel and Alphabet. Alphabet may not become Apple's largest holding, but the trajectory is similar. It has only been a year since Berkshire first added Alphabet to its portfolio in the third quarter of 2025. Just three quarters later, it's Berkshire's fourth-largest holding, and at this valuation, look for Abel to keep adding to the position.
It's not an apples-to-apples comparison (or Apple to Alphabet, as it were) given that Alphabet's low P/E ratio is skewed. But the speed at which Abel is adding Alphabet stock is reminiscent of how rapidly Buffett grew the Apple position.
The market is concerned about Alphabet's massive capital expenditures (capex), which it raised to $195 billion to $205 billion for fiscal 2026, up from the previous estimate of $180 billion to $190 billion. The increase is mostly due to an acceleration in capacity to meet surging demand. Alphabet expects capex spending to "increase significantly in 2027." This has drained Alphabet's free cash flow, which management anticipates will remain under pressure.
But during this once-in-a-generation AI boom, this is the cost of doing business for these hyperscalers to keep up with the insatiable demand. Amazon has made similar capex commitments, and it appears to be paying off. I'd expect Alphabet is making a similarly calculated move to meet demand.
Cadence uvedl sadu AI nástrojů Maestro pro návrh čipů, která je částečně postavena na Nvidia Nemotron; zákazníci ji mohou provozovat ve vlastních datových centrech.
Cadence Design Systems (CDNS.O) on Monday launched a portfolio of AI models tuned to help design computer chips, deepening its partnership with Nvidia (NVDA.O) and diverging from rival Synopsys's recent deal with OpenAI.
Both companies make software used to design computing chips — a process that involves arranging billions of transistors precisely to meet cost and performance targets — and are racing to have AI "agents" use those tools on behalf of human engineers to speed up the process.
The new suite, called Cadence Maestro, introduced on Monday, was built in part on Nvidia's open-weight Nemotron model and secured with Nvidia's OpenShell safety technology, the companies said.
Cadence said customers can run the models on its own cloud or any public cloud, or keep them entirely in-house behind their own firewalls and data centers.
They can also fine-tune the models on their own chip designs, and early results show up to 30% higher quality and up to five times better cost-efficiency versus general-purpose models, it added.
The Cadence approach contrasts with that of its largest competitor, Synopsys, which on September 30 said it would develop an AI model with OpenAI and share revenue with the ChatGPT maker. That model, GPT-Synopsys, will run on OpenAI-hosted infrastructure.
Paul Cunningham, a Cadence senior vice president, framed Maestro as model-agnostic, noting "there are more (AI) model providers out there than there are (chip design software) vendors."
When asked whether Cadence might strike its own deals with proprietary AI labs, Cunningham said both open- and closed-weight approaches are being "pursued equally," and that working with commercial labs is "part of the Maestro vision," though he declined to elaborate.
The first Maestro models reach select early-access customers in the fourth quarter, Cadence said.
NVIDIA ve 2. čtvrtletí fiskálního roku 2027 zvýšila tržby meziročně o 105,8 % na 96,22 miliardy USD; síťové technologie datových center vzrostly o 138 %.
NVIDIA just posted triple-digit revenue growth and Wall Street keeps raising its price targets, yet the stock is drifting lower. One upcoming catalyst could change that trajectory in a dramatic way.
The quarter NVIDIA (NASDAQ:NVDA | NVDA Price Prediction) just delivered would impress at a company one-tenth its size. Q2 fiscal 2027 revenue reached $96.22 billion, up 105.8% year over year. Data Center networking grew 138%, faster than compute.
Jensen Huang put it simply: “AI has reached its inflection point. It’s doing useful work. Its tokens are productive and profitable. Now, compute is revenue.”
Shares are up 18.43% year to date at $220.36, but they fell 3.57% over the past week. Even rumors of a big China chip purchase failed to lift the stock. That break leaves room for a bigger move. NVIDIA’s path to $400 by late 2027 depends on rising earnings and a market-level multiple.
Wall Street Sees 49% Upside as Estimates Keep Climbing
The average analyst target is $328.72, which implies 49% upside. Ratings lean heavily positive, led by 10 Strong Buys, 49 Buys, 2 Holds and 1 Sell.
For fiscal 2028, analysts project revenue of $692.2 billion, up from $411.7 billion this year, or 68% growth. They expect EPS to rise about 71% to $15.9146. Management guides to similar growth.
CFO Colette Kress said “customer forecasts point to our growth doubling next year,” but NVIDIA expects roughly 70% because supply is tight.
Path to $400 Requires Only a Market-Level Multiple
NVIDIA currently trades at about 14x fiscal 2028 earnings. At $400, that rises to about 25x. That is a small premium to the S&P 500’s forward multiple of roughly 21-23x, and it would buy earnings growing at 71%.
What Could Push NVIDIA to $400?
Rising estimates: 90 days ago, analysts expected fiscal 2028 EPS of $12.7636. Today the figure is $15.9146, about 25% higher, following 7 raised estimates and zero cuts in the past 30 days.
Beat run: NVIDIA has beaten estimates for 5 consecutive quarters. In Q2 it earned $2.22 against an expected $2.09.
Vera Rubin ramp: Management expects the fastest product ramp in company history. Rubin brings in $40 billion per gigawatt, compared with $25 billion for Blackwell.
Hyperscaler spending: Capex at the top five hyperscalers is expected to reach nearly $800 billion in 2026 and $1.3 trillion in 2027.
Supply relief and China: Huang said “the unconstrained number would be a lot higher.” The outlook includes no compute revenue from Chinese data centers, so any return there adds upside.
NVIDIA Has Topped This Gain Four Times Since 2016
Reaching $400 requires a gain of about 82%. NVIDIA has gone well beyond that before: shares rose 171% in 2024, 239% in 2023, 125% in 2021 and 224% in 2016.
With a market value of $5.33 trillion, repeating those returns is harder, but the stock has a track record of doing it.
$400 Is a Stretch, but the Math Holds Up
Hurdles remain: gross margin is expected to bottom at 71% to 72% in Q4, and days sales outstanding rose to 60 days. Reddit sentiment has also changed from bullish to neutral as concerns about AI financing grow.
Still, analysts already project 49% upside, and estimates are rising. NVIDIA trades at a forward multiple below the market’s. If Rubin ramps on schedule and supply eases, a 25x multiple on fiscal 2028 earnings would take the stock to $400.
That hyperscaler capex also has to be powered, cooled, and connected by someone, and we rounded up seven suppliers riding the same wave in a free report. Returns like this are rare, and this is how NVIDIA could deliver an outsized gain by 2027.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Almost every Wall Street analyst is pounding the table on Nvidia, yet a growing chorus of skeptics argues the entire AI spending boom rests on a foundation that has yet to deliver a single dollar of payoff outside of tech.
There are a couple of ways to look at it, but the picture is about the same. MarketBeat shows that 54 of the 55 analysts who cover Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA | NVDA Price Prediction) have a bullish call (“strong buy”, “buy”). Stock Analysis has the figure at 59 of 62 analysts. That is a range of over 95% to 98%. The news is either good or bad.
So many buy ratings are exceptional, as the stock continues its climb. At least a few analysts are skeptical. The average price target across all analysts is $325. The stock trades at $211 today. So, the assumption is that it can rise 54%. If the past means anything, the forecast is not crazy. Nvidia is up 725% in the last five years, but has done no better than the S&P 500 this year.
Nvidia’s stock price rests on two pillars. The first is 100% year-over-year revenue growth each quarter. In the most recently reported quarter, revenue was up 106% to $96 billion. On paper, by 2029, it should be the largest company in the US based on revenue, jumping ahead of Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN). It would not take much of a dent in that growth to drive off some investors.
Nvidia’s growth rests on one simple premise: Data center growth will stay on fire. Megatech companies like Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) will continue to have negative cash flow after decades of being positive. And Wall St. will need to fill in what these companies cannot. Skeptics have already argued that this is not sustainable. Apollo economist Torsten Slok notes, “Despite massive investments and widespread hype around artificial intelligence, the technology has delivered zero financial payoff to corporate America outside of tech.” In other words, the forecasts based on customer demand are deeply flawed. If this continues, presumably customer demand will dry up.
A major anxiety about Nvidia is that it sells the chips at the heart of AI’s technology success and growth rate, making it the arms merchant to the entire industry. Over and over again, critics and analysts say that Nvidia funds the demand for its own products by investing in its own chip customers. Nvidia’s balance sheet, and to an extent its revenue, is built on a house of cards.
And fulfilling AI demand may not be entirely driven by profitability. Depending on who is counting, communities that do not want data centers have delayed 200 of them this year. It has become a rallying point for some politicians, and there is no reason it will go away. By itself, this could slow AI growth.
A reader may say this analysis adds nothing new. It does not. It is, however, a juxtaposition of analysts’ wild optimism set next to what may be a less-than-perfect outcome.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Netflix očekává celoroční tržby ve výši 51,1 miliardy USD, tedy na spodní hranici svého výhledu, kvůli slabším příjmům z reklamy. V USA chce zvýšit angažovanost uživatelů.
Streaming giant Netflix (NFLX -2.57%) recently reported third-quarter earnings per share that was ahead of Wall Street consensus estimates -- while revenue came in line. However, investors came away disappointed after management said it expects full-year revenue of $51.1 billion, at the lower end of its outlook and slightly below consensus estimates.
Netflix attributed the softness to weaker ad revenue due to a slower-than-expected release of certain ad product capabilities. Still, the crux of the debate on Netflix, and likely overhang on the stock, concerns user engagement amid shifting consumer preferences.
During Netflix's third-quarter earnings call, Co-CEO Greg Peters told analysts, "We know that we can do better" when it comes to U.S. engagement. Should investors be worried?
Image source: Getty Images.
Adapting as content preferences shift
Netflix stock is now down over 47% in the past year, and a major reason for that decline is investor concerns about a shift in consumer viewing habits. Part of the shift can be attributed to short-form content on social media platforms and YouTube, while another concern is the disruption from artificial intelligence, as investors worry that the cost and barriers of creating content will come down.
During Netflix's earnings call, management was asked how engagement trends in the U.S. compare with those in other regions. Peters addressed this question, noting that overall subscriber retention remains healthy across all regions, despite price increases.
Peters also noted that engagement trends are strong in the Asia-Pacific region, Latin America, and Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). Specifically, Peters highlighted India, where total viewed hours grew 24% year over year.
In the U.S., Netflix's largest and most mature market, Peters was slightly more reserved, but framed the U.S. as an opportunity. "Our engagement is solid, and it will allow us to continue to grow as we have for the last several years, but we know that we can do better. And that better is our upside. It's our goal to go from very good to great on the performance of that slate," he said.
NFLX Netflix$64.16-$1.70 (-2.57%)
NASDAQ · As of 11:15 AM ET 10/26/26
This may have concerned investors worried that there is little room left to grow in the U.S.
But later in the call, when Netflix Co-President Ted Sarandos was discussing Netflix's EMEA strategy, he cited Netflix's performance in the Nordic countries as evidence that the company is still succeeding in mature markets. "The content slate is killing it there. And it's proof that when we have the right focus, make the right choices and deliver creatively, we can drive outsized impact on the business around the world," he said.
Peters also said management is very excited about Netflix's slate for the fourth quarter, including shows like East of Eden, which is already out, season 4 of The Diplomat, the final season of Emily in Paris, as well as movies such as Bad Day and The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth written by Quentin Tarantino.
Netflix will also have NFL Christmas Day games.
The threat of AI and short-form content is definitely the big overhang on the stock, in my opinion. Trying to assess whether Netflix's entire business model will be disrupted by AI is just about as difficult as assessing AI's impact on every other sector. But I would bet that Netflix ends up being OK and leveraging AI to complement its business rather than being totally disrupted by it.
Billionaire investor Bill Ackman and his team at Pershing Square USA bought the dip on Netflix earlier this year. Part of their thesis is that the market's concerns on the company "understate the cost of generating long-form, high-quality video, which remains among the most compute-intensive AI tasks."
So it remains to be seen whether the barrier to making high-quality content will actually come down, and I still think there will be demand for it even if viewers continue to gravitate toward short-form content. Given the company's immense resources and industry expertise, I am sure Netflix will continue to add diverse content as consumer preferences evolve and remain one of the dominant streaming platforms in the sector.
Netflix (NFLX - Free Report) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.
Over the past month, shares of this internet video service have returned -7.4%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. During this period, the Zacks Broadcast Radio and Television industry, which Netflix falls in, has lost 4.8%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
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.
Our analysis is essentially based on how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to take the latest business trends into account. When earnings estimates for a company go up, the fair value for its stock goes up as well. And when a stock's fair value is higher than its current market price, investors tend to buy the stock, resulting in its price moving upward. Because of this, empirical studies indicate a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price movements.
For the current quarter, Netflix is expected to post earnings of $0.68 per share, indicating a change of +21.4% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -9.1% over the last 30 days.
For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $3.59 points to a change of +41.9% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed -0.2%.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $3.75 indicates a change of +4.5% from what Netflix is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -2.1%.
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, Netflix 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 Netflix, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $13.46 billion indicates a year-over-year change of +11.7%. For the current and next fiscal years, $51.15 billion and $56.7 billion estimates indicate +13.2% and +10.9% changes, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryNetflix reported revenues of $12.87 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +11.8%. EPS of $0.87 for the same period compares with $0.59 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $12.87 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +0.05%. The EPS surprise was +6.1%.
Over the last four quarters, Netflix surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.
ValuationWithout considering a stock's valuation, no investment decision can be efficient. In predicting a stock's future price performance, it's crucial to determine whether its current price correctly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
As part of the Zacks Style Scores system, the Zacks Value Style Score (which evaluates both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics) organizes stocks into five groups ranging from A to F (A is better than B; B is better than C; and so on), making it helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
Netflix 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.
ConclusionThe 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 Netflix. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Netflix ve čtvrtletí dosáhl tržeb ve výši 12,87 miliardy USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 11,9 %; region EMEA přispěl 4,11 miliardy USD, tedy 31,9 % z celkových tržeb.
Have you evaluated the performance of Netflix's (NFLX - Free Report) international operations during the quarter that concluded in September 2026? Considering the extensive worldwide presence of this internet video service, analyzing the patterns in international revenues is crucial for understanding its financial resilience and potential for growth.
In the modern, closely-knit global economic landscape, the capacity of a business to access foreign markets is often a key determinant of its financial well-being and growth path. Investors now place great importance on grasping the extent of a company's dependence on international markets, as it sheds light on the firm's earnings stability, its skill in leveraging various economic cycles and its broad growth potential.
Presence in international markets can act as a hedge against domestic economic downturns and provide access to faster-growing economies. However, this diversification also brings complexities due to currency fluctuations, geopolitical risks and differing market dynamics.
While analyzing NFLX's performance for the last quarter, we found some intriguing trends in revenues from its overseas segments that Wall Street analysts commonly model and monitor.
The company's total revenue for the quarter amounted to $12.87 billion, showing rise of 11.9%. We will now explore the breakdown of NFLX's overseas revenue to assess the impact of its international operations.
A Dive into NFLX's International Revenue TrendsAsia-Pacific accounted for 11.9% of the company's total revenue during the quarter, translating to $1.54 billion. Revenues from this region represented a surprise of +0.15%, with Wall Street analysts collectively expecting $1.53 billion. When compared to the preceding quarter and the same quarter in the previous year, Asia-Pacific contributed $1.51 billion (12%) and $1.37 billion (11.9%) to the total revenue, respectively.
During the quarter, Latin America contributed $1.6 billion in revenue, making up 12.5% of the total revenue. When compared to the consensus estimate of $1.61 billion, this meant a surprise of -0.67%. Looking back, Latin America contributed $1.58 billion, or 12.6%, in the previous quarter, and $1.37 billion, or 11.9%, in the same quarter of the previous year.
Of the total revenue, $4.11 billion came from Europe, Middle East and Africa during the last fiscal quarter, accounting for 31.9%. This represented a surprise of -0.87% as analysts had expected the region to contribute $4.14 billion to the total revenue. In comparison, the region contributed $4.03 billion, or 32.1%, and $3.7 billion, or 32.1%, to total revenue in the previous and year-ago quarters, respectively.
Revenue Forecasts for the International MarketsThe current fiscal quarter's total revenue for Netflix, as projected by Wall Street analysts, is expected to reach $13.46 billion, reflecting an increase of 11.7% from the same quarter last year. The breakdown of this revenue by foreign region is as follows: Asia-Pacific is anticipated to contribute 12.1% or $1.63 billion, Latin America 12.2% or $1.64 billion and Europe, Middle East and Africa 32.1% or $4.32 billion.
For the entire year, the company's total revenue is forecasted to be $51.15 billion, which is an improvement of 13.2% from the previous year. The revenue contributions from different regions are expected as follows: Asia-Pacific will contribute 12% ($6.15 billion), Latin America 12.4% ($6.34 billion) and Europe, Middle East and Africa 32.2% ($16.49 billion) to the total revenue.
Final ThoughtsThe dependency of Netflix on global markets for its revenues presents a mix of potential gains and hazards. Thus, monitoring the trends in its overseas revenues can be a key indicator for predicting the firm's future performance.
In an environment where global interconnections and geopolitical skirmishes are intensifying, Wall Street analysts keep a keen eye on these trends, particularly for firms with overseas operations, to adjust their earnings predictions. Moreover, a range of other aspects, including how a company fares in its home country, significantly affects these projections.
At Zacks, a company's changing earnings outlook is given considerable attention due to its proven, strong influence on a stock's price performance in the near term. The connection here is straightforward and positive: when earnings estimates are revised upward, the stock price generally follows suit, increasing as well.
Boasting a remarkable track record that's been externally verified, the Zacks Rank, our unique stock rating system, leverages changes in earnings projections to function as a reliable gauge for predicting short-term stock price movements.
At the moment, Netflix has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), signifying that its performance may align with the overall market trend in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Netflix's Recent Stock Market PerformanceOver the past month, the stock has seen a decline of 7.4% in its value, whereas the Zacks S&P 500 composite has posted a decrease of 1.2%. The Zacks Consumer Discretionary sector, Netflix's industry group, has ascended 4.8% over the identical span. In the past three months, there's been a decline of 8.2% in the company's stock price, against a rise of 2.5% in the S&P 500 index. The broader sector has increased by 2.8% during this interval.
Analysts on Wall Street project that MasterCard (MA - Free Report) will announce quarterly earnings of $5.14 per share in its forthcoming report, representing an increase of 17.4% year over year. Revenues are projected to reach $9.63 billion, increasing 12% from the same quarter last year.
The current level reflects an upward revision of 0.1% in the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter over the past 30 days. This demonstrates how the analysts covering the stock have collectively reappraised their initial projections over this period.
Prior to a company's earnings release, it is of utmost importance to factor in any revisions made to the earnings projections. These revisions serve as a critical gauge for predicting potential investor behaviors with respect to the stock. Empirical studies consistently reveal a strong link between trends in earnings estimate revisions and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While investors typically rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates to gauge how the business may have fared during the quarter, examining analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics often helps gain a deeper insight.
In light of this perspective, let's dive into the average estimates of certain MasterCard metrics that are commonly tracked and forecasted by Wall Street analysts.
Analysts expect 'Net revenue by category- Payment network' to come in at $5.61 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +8.2%.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Net revenue by category- Value-added services and solutions' should come in at $4.04 billion. The estimate points to a change of +18.1% from the year-ago quarter.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Revenue- Transaction processing assessments' will reach $4.64 billion. The estimate points to a change of +10.6% from the year-ago quarter.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Revenue- Domestic assessments' should arrive at $3.15 billion. The estimate points to a change of +12.3% from the year-ago quarter.
Analysts predict that the 'Switched transactions' will reach 49.84 billion. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of 45.37 billion.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Purchase volume - All MasterCard Credit, Charge and Debit Programs - Worldwide' will likely reach $2492.87 billion. The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of $2280.00 billion.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Purchase volume - All MasterCard Credit, Charge and Debit Programs - APMEA' will reach $531.71 billion. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $484.00 billion in the same quarter last year.
Analysts forecast 'Purchase volume - All MasterCard Credit, Charge and Debit Programs - Canada' to reach $73.74 billion. Compared to the current estimate, the company reported $69.00 billion in the same quarter of the previous year.
The consensus estimate for 'Purchase volume - All MasterCard Credit, Charge and Debit Programs - Latin America' stands at $200.84 billion. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $169.00 billion in the same quarter last year.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Purchase volume - All MasterCard Credit, Charge and Debit Programs - Europe' reaching $881.81 billion. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of $806.00 billion.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Purchase volume - All MasterCard Credit, Charge and Debit Programs - United States' of $794.22 billion. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of $752.00 billion.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Gross dollar volume - All Mastercard Credit, Charge and Debit Programs - Worldwide' at $3011.99 billion. Compared to the current estimate, the company reported $2747.00 billion in the same quarter of the previous year.
View all Key Company Metrics for MasterCard here>>>
Shares of MasterCard have experienced a change of +9.9% in the past month compared to the -1.2% move of the Zacks S&P 500 composite. With a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), MA is expected to outperform the overall market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Key Takeaways Visa is poised for a fiscal Q4 earnings beat, with EPS projected to rise 15.1% and revenues to grow 12.7%.Higher payment volumes, cross-border demand and digital transactions could fuel Visa's Q4 revenue growth.Visa's 16.3% YTD stock gain and premium valuation favor holding shares over buying ahead of earnings.
Visa Inc. (V - Free Report) is set to report its fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 results on Oct. 27, 2026, after market close. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the to-be-reported quarter’s earnings is currently pegged at $3.43 per shareon revenues of $12.08 billion.
The estimate for fiscal fourth-quarter earnings has remained stable over the past 60 days. The bottom-line projection indicates a year-over-year increase of 15.1%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for quarterly revenues suggests year-over-year growth of 12.7%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
For fiscal 2026, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Visa’s revenues is pegged at $45.84 billion, implying a rise of 14.6% year over year. The consensus mark for EPS is pegged at $13.22, suggesting a jump of about 15.3% year over year.
The payments juggernaut has a robust history of surpassing earnings estimates. It beat estimates in each of the last four quarters, with the average being 2.8%. This is depicted in the graph below:
Q4 Earnings Whispers for VisaOur proven model predicts a likely earnings beat for the company this time around as well. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat. That is precisely the case here.
Visa has an Earnings ESP of +0.66% and a Zacks Rank #3. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Factors Shaping Visa’s Q4 ResultsVisa appears well positioned to deliver solid year-over-year growth in fiscal fourth-quarter results, supported by higher consumer spending, rising digital payment adoption and continued growth in cross-border transactions. The Zacks Consensus Estimate calls for a 7.5% increase in total Gross Dollar Volume from the year-ago quarter, while our model projects 7.7% growth.
As the company draws revenues as a set percentage of total transaction value every time a customer makes payments with a debit/credit card, higher spending means more revenue in the form of transaction processing fees. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for total processed transactions points to 9.6% year-over-year growth, slightly above our model's projection of 9.4%.
The consensus mark for total payment volumes indicates a 9.1% year-over-year increase. We expect the metric for U.S. operations alone to jump nearly 8% year over year. Similarly, our model predicts 15.6% year-over-year growth in Latin America and 11.2% in CEMEA.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for data processing revenues indicates 15% growth in the fiscal fourth quarter from the year-ago level of $5.39 billion. Similarly, the consensus mark for service revenues suggests 12.6% year-over-year growth, whereas we expect the metric to grow 13.3% from $4.6 billion.
Furthermore, the consensus estimate for international transaction revenues indicates 8.9% growth from a year ago. Continuous growth in cross-border volumes is expected to have supported the metric. The factors stated above are expected to have positioned Visa for an earnings beat. However, rising expenses and client incentives (a contra-revenue item) are likely to have partially offset the positive impact of higher volumes.
We expect adjusted total operating expenses for the quarter under review to increase 11.6% year over year due to increased Personnel, Professional Fees, Marketing, and Network and Processing expenses. Meanwhile, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for client incentives is pegged at $4.98 billion for the to-be-reported quarter.
Visa Price Performance & ValuationVisa's stock has gained 16.3% in the year-to-date period. It has outperformed the industry’s 4.2% fall andthe S&P 500’s increase of 10.6%. In comparison, its peers like Mastercard Incorporated (MA - Free Report) and American Express Company (AXP - Free Report) have increased 9.2% and declined 15.3%, respectively, during this time.
YTD Price Performance – V, MA, AXP, Industry & S&P 500 Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Now, let’s look at the value Visa offers investors at current levels.
The company’s valuation looks somewhat stretched compared with the industry average. Currently, Visa is trading at 26.97X forward 12-month earnings, above the industry’s average of 18.76X, and remains above its five-year median of 25.59X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
In comparison, Mastercard is trading at 27.84X forward 12-month earnings. American Express, on the other hand, is trading at 15.86X now.
How Should You Play Visa Ahead of Q4 Earnings?Visa enters its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings report with plenty working in its favor. Steady consumer spending, higher transaction volumes and cross-border demand should support revenue and earnings growth. Its record of topping estimates adds to that case.
The longer-term story is also taking shape. Visa is expanding stablecoin-linked payments and settlement, building tools for AI-driven shopping and growing its Value-Added Services business. These efforts offer new ways to earn revenue beyond traditional card transactions, without straying far from the network that underpins its business.
Still, expectations are not low. After outperforming the industry and broader market this year, Visa trades above both its industry average and its own five-year median valuation. Higher operating expenses and client incentives could limit how much stronger payment activity flows through to earnings. Competition from alternative payment networks and regulatory scrutiny also remain concerns.
For existing shareholders, the company's strong core business and newer growth opportunities support staying invested through the report. New investors, however, may want to avoid chasing the stock ahead of earnings, particularly with its valuation leaving little room for disappointment.
Walmart ve 2. čtvrtletí fiskálního roku 2027 zvýšil globální tržby z e-commerce o 23 % a zavádí nástroje pro nákupy prostřednictvím AI asistentů třetích stran.
Key Takeaways Walmart is expanding AI shopping through Agent Profiles and Agent Gateway to improve convenience.Walmart's global e-commerce sales rose 23% in Q2 fiscal 2027, while Marketplace sales surged 52%. Walmart's AI assistant Sparky saw usage jump 70%, with users spending 40% more per order than nonusers. Walmart Inc. (WMT - Free Report) continues to strengthen its digital retail business through investments in artificial intelligence (AI), automation and omnichannel capabilities. The retailer is increasingly using technology to simplify shopping, improve convenience and strengthen customer engagement. Its expanding AI capabilities could also help Walmart capitalize on evolving shopping preferences while creating additional opportunities for e-commerce growth.
Building on this strategy, Walmart recently announced Agent Profiles, Walmart Agent Gateway and dedicated operating rules for AI shopping agents. These initiatives are designed to enable customers to shop through third-party AI assistants while retaining control over purchases. Agent Profiles, expected to launch in November, will allow customers to set spending limits, authorize transactions and monitor purchases made by individual agents.
Meanwhile, Walmart Agent Gateway aims to streamline interactions between AI assistants and its shopping platform. The technology is being developed to help agents identify customers' preferred products without requiring access to their broader purchase histories. By simplifying routine purchases, these capabilities could encourage shopping frequency, improve convenience and strengthen customer loyalty.
Walmart's digital momentum provides a solid foundation for these initiatives. In second-quarter fiscal 2027, global e-commerce sales increased 23%, including 24% growth at Walmart U.S. Marketplace sales surged 52%, while global advertising revenues advanced 38%. Meanwhile, usage of its AI shopping assistant, Sparky, rose 70% year over year, with users spending 40% more per order than nonusers.
Walmart's growing AI ecosystem could further strengthen its competitive position by making product discovery and repeat purchases more convenient. Combined with its broad assortment, competitive pricing and fulfillment network, these capabilities may support sustained digital engagement and sales growth. However, the extent of the benefits will depend on customer adoption, effective execution and Walmart's ability to convert AI-driven shopping activity into profitable transactions.
What Do the Latest Metrics Say About Walmart?Walmart, which competes with Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST - Free Report) and Target Corporation (TGT - Free Report) , has seen its shares gain 14.8% over the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 13.5%. Costco shares have climbed 7.9%, while Target has surged 56.2% in the aforementioned period.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, Walmart's forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio stands at 38.29, higher than the industry’s 35.1. The company is trading at a premium to Target (with a forward 12-month P/E ratio of 15.75) while trading at a discount to Costco (43.55).
Walmart's stock is closing in on a $1 trillion market cap, and the company just dropped a three-event holiday sales calendar to get there. But a strategy built on aggressive price cuts carries a profit risk that could make or…
Walmart (NASDAQ:WMT | WMT Price Prediction) announced three holiday shopping events on Oct. 26, with its stock close to a $1 trillion market value. As of 10:25 a.m. ET, shares traded at $121.59. That was up 1.42% on the day, 10.01% over the past month and 9.83% year to date, for a market value of about $966.67 billion.
Investors may be counting on a strong holiday season to carry Walmart past $1 trillion. Available sources link the rally to other factors. TIKR attributes the move to investors paying a higher valuation multiple, and TipRanks linked the Oct. 22 gain to comments from an Oppenheimer analyst. That puts a lot of weight on the holidays, because a richer valuation needs profit growth to back it up.
Three Holiday Sales Built Around Lower Prices
Walmart’s holiday calendar, per its press release:
Early Black Friday Deals: Nov. 12 to 15
Black Friday: Nov. 23 to 29. Both Black Friday sales open online at 12:01 a.m. ET and in stores at 6 a.m. local time.
Cyber Monday: Nov. 30 to Dec. 2, online only
Walmart said Walmart+ members get early access to hot deal drops for the first 24 hours of each Black Friday sale. Walmart’s own research found that 60% of shoppers say gift prices affect how they feel about the season, and Walmart said 70% say lower prices would make holiday shopping easier. Walmart is also promoting its new Walmart+ and Sam’s Club Plus bundle at $120 a year. Walmart’s Top Toys list includes 25 toys priced under $25.
Julie Barber, chief merchandising officer for Walmart U.S., summed up the pitch: “It’s all about helping our customers save more, discover more and make more room for what matters.”
A Higher Multiple Drove the Rally
TIKR data shows Walmart closed at $119.89 on Oct. 23, up 15.4% from $103.92 on Sept. 30. Over that period, TIKR shows analysts’ next-12-months earnings estimate stayed at $3.00 a share. The forward price-to-earnings ratio, which measures what investors pay for each dollar of profit expected over the next year, rose from about 35 times to about 40 times, per TIKR. In other words, investors paid more for the same expected earnings. TIKR puts the Street’s mean price target at $127.48, about 6% above the Oct. 23 close.
Why Price Cuts Can Squeeze Profit
Walmart has been putting its gains back into prices. Management said Walmart qualified for about $2.9 billion in tariff refunds and is using much of that money to fund more than 11,000 rollbacks. CEO John Furner said, “We’re investing heavily in price because customers need us to and because we believe it drives market share gains over time.”
TIKR names the main risk: if Walmart keeps reinvesting in lower prices, earnings could fall short. Oppenheimer’s Rupesh Parikh rates the stock Perform. According to TIKR, citing TipRanks, he said the bundle strengthens Walmart’s value proposition but noted a near-term profit headwind.
Higher-margin businesses help cover that cost. In the second quarter of fiscal 2027, global advertising rose 38% and membership fee revenue grew 17%. Adjusted EPS came in at $0.81, beating the $0.74 estimate, according to Walmart’s earnings release filed with the SEC. Even so, the stock fell 9.15% on the day of that report.
Nov. 19 Falls Between the Two Black Friday Sales
Walmart’s next report is expected on Nov. 19, though the company has not made that date official. That falls between its two Black Friday sales. The report covers the fall quarter, and holiday-quarter results won’t come until early next year, so Nov. 19 will give investors their first look at Walmart’s holiday outlook.
Walmart forecast to adjusted EPS of $0.62 to $0.64 for the quarter, and TIKR puts the year-earlier figure at $0.62 and the consensus estimate at $0.64. TIKR says results at or above consensus, along with Walmart’s full-year range of $2.80 to $2.87 held or raised, would support the higher multiple. A result at the low end of guidance would mean a stock TIKR values near 40 times forward earnings had reported flat quarterly earnings.
What to Watch Before the Holidays
The Nov. 19 report, and any update to Walmart’s holiday outlook and full-year guidance
How deep Walmart’s holiday discounts go, and whether management says they are weighing on margins
Whether Walmart’s $120 bundle brings in new members, since membership fees help offset lower prices
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Reklamní platforma Roundel společnosti Target ve druhém čtvrtletí fiskálního roku 2026 zvýšila hrubou fakturaci téměř o 20 % a reklamní tržby vzrostly z 217 milionů USD na 279 milionů USD.
Key Takeaways TGT's Roundel gross billings surged nearly 20% in second-quarter fiscal 2026, boosting advertising revenues.Roundel helped drive 20.1% non-merchandise sales growth, supporting Target's gross margins and revenue mix.Target shares gained 8.9% in three months, outpacing the industry's 1% rise, while trading at a lower P/E.
Target Corporation's (TGT - Free Report) Roundel advertising business is gaining importance as the retailer continues to expand its higher-margin revenue streams. The platform's recent performance underscores the financial value of retail media, which provides an additional revenue opportunity alongside the company's core merchandise operations.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2026, Roundel's gross billings increased nearly 20% year over year, reflecting continued strength in Target's advertising operations. Reported advertising revenues, primarily associated with Roundel, reached $279 million, up from $217 million in the year-ago quarter. For the first six months of 2026, advertising revenues reached $525 million compared with $379 million in the prior-year period.
The momentum is particularly noteworthy because advertising represents a higher-margin revenue opportunity. Target indicated that continued growth in advertising and other non-merchandise sales supported its underlying gross margin performance during the quarter. This suggests that Roundel's expansion is contributing not only to revenue diversification but also to a more favorable business mix. Target reported 20.1% growth in non-merchandise sales during the quarter, citing Roundel advertising as one of the contributors.
Target is also investing in technology capabilities to strengthen its retail media business. These efforts reflect management's emphasis on developing advertising as an integral part of its broader retail operations. Roundel's continued expansion could make advertising an increasingly important component of Target's revenue mix.
How WMT & DG Are Scaling Retail Media Compared With TargetWalmart Inc. (WMT - Free Report) is scaling its retail media business rapidly, with global advertising growing 38% in second-quarter fiscal 2027 and Walmart U.S. advertising also up 38%. Walmart Connect, excluding VIZIO, advanced 43%, while advertising helped improve business mix and e-commerce economics. Walmart also strengthened the platform through its Vibe acquisition, aimed at expanding self-service tools and helping advertisers measure results against actual shopping behavior.
Dollar General Corporation (DG - Free Report) is similarly developing DG Media Network as a profit lever. Dollar General said the network reached $170 million in annual volume at the end of last year and is expected to grow meaningfully. Dollar General is expanding advertiser opportunities across stores, its app and website while increasing digital engagement. Dollar General also identifies DG Media Network growth among the initiatives expected to support gross margin expansion.
How Does Target Stack Up Against Its Industry?Target has seen its shares rally 8.9% over the past three months compared with the industry’s rise of 1%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
What Does Target’s Current Valuation Suggest?From a valuation standpoint, Target's forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio stands at 15.75, lower than the industry’s 28.91. However, the stock is trading above its 12-month median level of 15.01.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
What Do Earnings Estimates Signal for Target?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Target’s current fiscal-year sales and earnings per share implies year-over-year growth of 5.1% and 37.8%, respectively. For the next fiscal year, the consensus estimate indicates a 3.1% rise in sales but a decline of 9.5% in earnings per share.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Target’s Investment CaseTarget’s improving sales momentum, growing digital capabilities and expanding higher-margin businesses, including Roundel, strengthen its investment appeal. Continued investments in merchandising, technology and customer experience support sustainable growth and profitability. The stock’s attractive valuation relative to the industry, coupled with encouraging earnings expectations and improving business fundamentals, presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking long-term growth. Target currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Verizon vykázal za čtvrtletí zisk na akcii (EPS) ve výši 1,31 USD, čímž překonal odhad 1,27 USD, zatímco tržby ve výši 34,31 miliardy USD zaostaly za konsensem o 1,43 %.
Verizon Communications (VZ - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $1.31 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.27 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.21 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +3.15%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this largest U.S. cellphone carrier would post earnings of $1.27 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.3, delivering a surprise of +2.36%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates four times.
Verizon, which belongs to the Zacks Wireless National industry, posted revenues of $34.31 billion for the quarter ended September 2026, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.43%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $33.82 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates just once over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Verizon shares have added about 9.7% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 11.4%.
What's Next for Verizon?While Verizon has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Verizon was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $1.15 on $37.27 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $5.03 on $140.96 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Wireless National is currently in the top 42% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Another stock from the same industry, ATN International (ATNI - Free Report) , has yet to report results for the quarter ended September 2026. The results are expected to be released on November 4.
This provider of telecommunications services is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.19 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +5.6%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
ATN International's revenues are expected to be $184.9 million, up 1% from the year-ago quarter.
Colgate-Palmolive před zveřejněním hospodářských výsledků čelí riziku: tržby v Severní Americe klesaly čtyři čtvrtletí po sobě, zatímco akcie od začátku roku vzrostly o 21,87 %.
Colgate-Palmolive heads into earnings with a 21% rally behind it, a demanding valuation, and a North American business that has shrunk for four straight quarters. Something has to give, and Friday's report may reveal whether the safe-haven story still holds.
Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE:CL | CL Price Prediction) reports third-quarter results on Friday, Oct. 30. The stock has rose 21.87% year to date. That rally puts a premium price on a business that is still struggling to grow in the U.S.
Strong Beats, a Weak Home Market and a Rich Multiple
Last quarter, Colgate posted Base Business EPS of $0.99, beating the $0.95 consensus, on revenue of $5.36B (+4.9% YoY). Gross margin expanded 140 bps to 61.5% even as advertising rose 15% to $777M. Management raised its Base Business EPS growth outlook to mid-single digits and lifted gross margin guidance to roughly flat.
North America was the problem. Net sales fell 3.0%, the fourth straight quarterly decline, with volume down 3.9%. Shares slid 1.56% the day after the report despite the beat.
Momentum has since returned. CL gained 10.05% over the past month and trades around 24x the full-year 2026 EPS consensus. That is a demanding multiple for a company guiding to 1% to 4% organic growth.
Wall Street Expects Modest Q3 Growth
Metric
Consensus
Year-Ago Actual
Implied YoY Growth
Q3 2026 EPS
$0.9253
$0.91
1.7%
Q3 2026 Revenue
$5.33B
$5.13B
4.0%
FY 2026 EPS
$3.8668
$3.69
4.8%
FY 2026 Revenue
$21.40B
$20.38B
5.0%
Colgate has beaten EPS estimates six straight quarters.
U.S. Recovery and Oil Costs Will Test the Premium
North America is my first focus. On the Q2 call, management said consumption was about flat while shipments fell 3% as retailers cut inventory and Colgate lost some share. Management promised “surgical actions by category and channel”, more advertising and fixes to select price spreads, but warned it “won’t be a linear improvement.”
Margins are the hidden risk. Management called Q3 largely locked in but expected cost of goods and tariffs to peak in the back half, highlighting Q4 risk with oil “more in the $90 range.” WTI crude hit $107.89 per barrel on Oct. 20. You should listen closely for any change to the fourth-quarter gross margin outlook.
Mix matters too. Management expects a more volume-driven second half after pricing carried the first half, and it does not expect the same Latin American FX benefit. Hill’s faces a about flat U.S. pet category plus a 200 basis point volume drag from private label exits.
Analysts are already reducing. The FY2026 EPS consensus saw three downward revisions and zero upward revisions over the past 30 days.
A Defensive Premium Now Requires U.S. Proof
Colgate’s 63 consecutive years of dividend increases and its 41.3% global toothpaste share explain why investors treat it as a safe haven. At about 24x earnings, the stock prices in steady execution. If the U.S. shows sequential improvement and margin guidance holds against higher oil, the premium looks earned. If costs rose while North America keeps contracting, this earnings report could expose how much of the rally rests on reputation.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Analytici očekávají, že Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings ve 3. čtvrtletí vykáže zisk 0,91 USD na ředěnou akcii, což představuje meziroční pokles o 24,2 %, při tržbách 2,87 miliardy USD.
The upcoming report from Norwegian Cruise Line (NCLH - Free Report) is expected to reveal quarterly earnings of $0.91 per share, indicating a decline of 24.2% compared to the year-ago period. Analysts forecast revenues of $2.87 billion, representing a decline of 2.2% year over year.
Over the last 30 days, there has been a downward revision of 7% in the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter, leading to its current level. This signifies the covering analysts' collective reconsideration of their initial forecasts over the course of this timeframe.
Before a company reveals its earnings, it is vital to take into account any changes in earnings projections. These revisions play a pivotal role in predicting the possible reactions of investors toward the stock. Multiple empirical studies have consistently shown a strong association between trends in earnings estimates and the short-term price movements of a stock.
While investors usually depend on consensus earnings and revenue estimates to assess the business performance for the quarter, delving into analysts' forecasts for certain key metrics often provides a more comprehensive understanding.
With that in mind, let's delve into the average projections of some Norwegian Cruise Line metrics that are commonly tracked and projected by analysts on Wall Street.
Analysts expect 'Revenue- Onboard and other' to come in at $884.41 million. The estimate points to a change of -0.4% from the year-ago quarter.
Analysts predict that the 'Revenue- Passenger ticket' will reach $1.98 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -3.6%.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Passenger Cruise Days' should arrive at 7062 thousands of days. Compared to the current estimate, the company reported 6828 thousands of days in the same quarter of the previous year.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Capacity Days' will reach 6796 thousands of days. The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of 6418 thousands of days.
Analysts forecast 'Net Yield' to reach $313.17 . The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of $341.89 .
The consensus among analysts is that 'Occupancy percentage' will reach 103.9%. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 106.4% in the same quarter last year.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Fuel price per metric ton, net of hedges' should come in at $791.47 . The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of $744.00 .
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Net Cruise Cost per Capacity Day' reaching $185.86 . The estimate compares to the year-ago value of $186.03 .
The average prediction of analysts places 'Gross Cruise Cost per Capacity Day' at $295.04 . The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of $301.95 .
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Net Cruise Cost Excluding Fuel' will likely reach $1062.98 . The estimate compares to the year-ago value of $1017.97 .
The consensus estimate for 'Total Passengers carried' stands at 915,799 . Compared to the current estimate, the company reported 803,268 in the same quarter of the previous year.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Adjusted Net Cruise Cost Excluding Fuel' of $1.04 billion. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $998.99 million in the same quarter last year.
View all Key Company Metrics for Norwegian Cruise Line here>>>
Shares of Norwegian Cruise Line have experienced a change of +3.4% in the past month compared to the -1.2% move of the Zacks S&P 500 composite. With a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), NCLH is expected to mirror the overall market performance in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) could have another catalyst to reclaim the $100 level as rising demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure supports its server processor business, according to RBC Capital.
The investment bank reiterated its ‘Sector Perform’ rating on the semiconductor giant, maintaining a $100 price target.
As of press time, Intel shares were trading at $86.96, leaving the price target approximately 15% above that level.
INTC one-week stock price chart. Source: Finbold
RBC expects Intel to deliver another earnings beat and raise its outlook, supported by robust demand for agentic AI, which refers to AI systems capable of carrying out tasks with limited human intervention.
Impact on Intel revenue
The firm anticipates that this demand will support at least a 5% revenue beat and a 3% to 5% increase in guidance. Double-digit growth in server CPU volumes is also expected to continue into 2027, with a favorable product mix and average selling prices potentially providing additional support.
The server CPU opportunity is particularly important as AI infrastructure spending expands beyond graphics processing units (GPUs). CPUs remain essential for coordinating workloads, managing data and supporting the broader computing infrastructure used to operate AI systems.
Despite the positive outlook for server processors, supply availability remains a key uncertainty. RBC also highlighted weak PC demand as an overhang, reflecting the risk that softness in Intel’s traditional computing business could offset gains elsewhere.
Improved Panther Lake CPU availability could boost yields on Intel’s 18A process, while advances in foundry operations and packaging could strengthen its competitive position. RBC expects EMIB-T advanced packaging to generate $3 billion to $5 billion in 2028.
Wall Street is mainly bullish on INTC stock
Meanwhile, broader analyst sentiment toward INTC shares is more positive. According to TradingView forecasts, the average one-year price target stands at $119.85, implying approximately 37.82% upside from the stock’s current price.
The forecast range extends from $80 to $200, highlighting the substantial uncertainty surrounding Intel’s longer-term prospects.
The analyst-rating distribution leans toward a ‘Buy’ consensus, with 14 ‘Strong Buy’ ratings, five ‘Buy’ ratings, 32 ‘Hold’ ratings, and one’ Strong Sell’ rating among 52 analysts.
Intel is scheduled to report third-quarter results on October 29, with investors watching for stronger AI-driven revenue and easing supply constraints.
The company reported second-quarter revenue of $16.1 billion, up 25% year over year, while Data Center and AI revenue surged 59% to $6.3 billion, supporting RBC’s growth outlook.
However, Intel raised its 2026 capital expenditure forecast to $20 billion from $18 billion to meet AI demand, increasing investment costs. Its foundry business also faces challenges, with just $293 million of its $5.8 billion in second-quarter revenue coming from external customers.
Síla serverového segmentu Intelu, kde průměrná prodejní cena vzrostla oproti předchozímu roku o 48 % a tržby o 61 %, může ve třetím čtvrtletí vyvážit slabší trh s PC.
SummaryIntel Corporation maintains a Buy rating, with conviction rising as the stock trades near $87 ahead of Q3 earnings.Recent INTC stock volatility was driven by sector sentiment and competitive headlines, not by changes in Intel’s fundamentals or earnings outlook.Server segment strength—48% ASP growth and 61% revenue gain—offsets PC weakness; volume growth is the next key lever.14A process milestone and customer traction are critical forward catalysts, while PC market softness poses near-term risk for INTC shareholders. JHVEPhoto/iStock Editorial via Getty Images
Intel Corporation (INTC) shares have been on quite a ride over the past month, even though the company has been pretty quiet. When I last wrote about Intel on Sept. 10, the stock was
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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Wall Street fears AI will destroy Adobe, and that panic has sliced nearly 25% off the stock this year. But the company's own financials tell a completely different story about who actually profits when AI goes mainstream.
Adobe (NASDAQ:ADBE | ADBE Price Prediction) keeps slipping, and every new leg down broadens the gap between its share price and its fundamentals. The stock has fallen 24.62% year to date to $263.82. The loudest Reddit post on the name carries the title “ADOBE is cooked.” The crowd thinks AI will commoditize Adobe. I think Adobe is the company getting paid for AI, and I think the margins prove it.
AI Already Pays Adobe’s Bills
Adobe’s AI-first ending ARR topped $650 million, growing more than 150% year over year. Monthly active users passed 1 billion, up more than 20%. Creative freemium users crossed 100 million, up more than 70%, and Firefly ARR grew 40% quarter over quarter. Adobe keeps adding users, then routes them toward paid credits and premium levels. Total ARR reached $27.5 billion, up 11.2%.
Margins Expanding Faster Than Revenue
Third-quarter revenue rose 12.89% to $6.76B, and free cash flow grew 14.68% to $2.438B on just $85M of capex. Management targets a full-year non-GAAP operating margin of approximately 45%. In fiscal 2025, operating income grew 29.15% on 10.53% revenue growth. Non-GAAP EPS of $6.13 topped the $6.09 estimate for a fifth consecutive beat, and Adobe raised fiscal 2026 non-GAAP EPS guidance to $24.45 to $24.50.
Buybacks Do My Compounding
Adobe pays no dividend, so for a retirement portfolio the buyback serves as my income engine. The company retired roughly 8.1M, 8.5M and 9.5M shares across the first three quarters, with $24.55 billion still authorized. Every share I hold claims a bigger slice each quarter. At today’s price, Adobe trades near 11 times the fiscal 2026 consensus EPS of $24.476 and about 10 times the fiscal 2027 estimate.
How Adobe Stacks Up Against Microsoft and Autodesk
The obvious AI story belongs to Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), and it spent $115.95 billion on capex in its latest fiscal year to fund it. Its fourth-quarter free cash flow fell 23.19%, and the stock trades at about 29 times earnings. Adobe’s light-capex model converts AI demand more directly into cash.
Autodesk (NASDAQ:ADSK) grows faster, with revenue up 16.05% last quarter. It guides to a non-GAAP operating margin of ~39%, though, below Adobe’s target. Adobe offers the wider margin.
Real Risk I Track Every Quarter
Adobe deliberately drives users into its freemium model before monetizing them, and RPO grew only 8%. Leadership also changes: Anil Chakravarthy becomes CEO on December 1, ending Shantanu Narayen’s 29 years at the helm. A conversion miss under a new chief would hurt. The risk looks contained. The internal successor knows the business, guidance rose about $50 million at the midpoint, and analysts posted 27 upward fiscal 2026 EPS revisions against 3 downward over 30 days.
Catalysts Investors Should Track Next
Adobe MAX arrives in November, and the Topaz Labs deal should close in Q4. The consensus calls for fiscal 2027 EPS of $27.5076. A business with 45% margins, a billion users and a shrinking share count keeps getting cheaper while it gets better, and investors should watch whether that trend holds.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Cisco očekává ve stávajícím čtvrtletí zisk na akcii (EPS) ve výši 1,33 USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 33 %, a tržby ve výši 18,09 miliardy USD, meziročně o 21,5 % více.
Cisco Systems (CSCO - Free Report) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.
Over the past month, shares of this seller of routers, switches, software and services have returned -0.2%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. During this period, the Zacks Computer - Networking industry, which Cisco falls in, has lost 1.6%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
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.
Our analysis is essentially based on how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to take the latest business trends into account. When earnings estimates for a company go up, the fair value for its stock goes up as well. And when a stock's fair value is higher than its current market price, investors tend to buy the stock, resulting in its price moving upward. Because of this, empirical studies indicate a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price movements.
Cisco is expected to post earnings of $1.33 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +33%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed +0.8%.
The consensus earnings estimate of $5.11 for the current fiscal year indicates a year-over-year change of +18%. This estimate has changed +0.1% over the last 30 days.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $5.59 indicates a change of +9.4% from what Cisco is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has remained unchanged.
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, Cisco is rated Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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.
In the case of Cisco, the consensus sales estimate of $18.09 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +21.5%. The $73.03 billion and $77.87 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +15.3% and +6.6%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryCisco reported revenues of $17.25 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +17.6%. EPS of $1.22 for the same period compares with $0.99 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $16.85 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +2.36%. The EPS surprise was +4.27%.
The company beat consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time 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.
Cisco is graded F 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 Cisco. However, its Zacks Rank #2 does suggest that it may outperform the broader market in the near term.
Akcie IBM za uplynulý měsíc vzrostly o 12,4 %, zatímco index S&P 500 klesl o 1,2 %. Konsenzuální odhad očekává celoroční EPS ve výši 12,41 USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 7,1 %.
IBM (IBM - 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 technology and consulting company have returned +12.4%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. During this period, the Zacks Computer - Integrated Systems industry, which IBM falls in, has lost 18.5%. 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.
Revisions to Earnings EstimatesHere at Zacks, we prioritize appraising the change in the projection of a company's future earnings over anything else. That's because we believe the present value of its future stream of earnings is what determines the fair value for its stock.
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.
IBM is expected to post earnings of $4.63 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +2.4%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed +0.7%.
The consensus earnings estimate of $12.41 for the current fiscal year indicates a year-over-year change of +7.1%. This estimate has changed +0.7% over the last 30 days.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $13.24 indicates a change of +6.7% from what IBM is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed +0.1%.
With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is a more conclusive indicator of a stock's near-term price performance, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for IBM.
The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Projected Revenue GrowthEven 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 IBM, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $20.38 billion indicates a year-over-year change of +3.5%. For the current and next fiscal years, $70.51 billion and $73.31 billion estimates indicate +4.4% and +4% changes, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryIBM reported revenues of $17.1 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +4.7%. EPS of $2.95 for the same period compares with $2.65 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $16.87 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +1.37%. The EPS surprise was +2.43%.
Over the last four quarters, IBM surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.
ValuationWithout considering a stock's valuation, no investment decision can be efficient. In predicting a stock's future price performance, it's crucial to determine whether its current price correctly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
As part of the Zacks Style Scores system, the Zacks Value Style Score (which evaluates both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics) organizes stocks into five groups ranging from A to F (A is better than B; B is better than C; and so on), making it helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
IBM 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.
ConclusionThe 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 IBM. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Phillips 66 těží z flexibility při zpracování ropy; každé rozšíření rozpětí mezi WTI a WCS o 1 USD za barel zvýší odhadovanou roční EBITDA o 140 milionů USD.
Key Takeaways PSX can process light, medium and heavy crude grades to capture feedstock discounts across markets.PSX benefits from Canadian and Venezuelan crude supplies and optimized sourcing to boost refining margins.Every $1 widening in the WTI/WCS differential adds an estimated $140 million to Phillips 66's annual EBITDA.
Phillips 66’s (PSX - Free Report) refining system benefits from a flexible crude slate that enables the company to process a wide range of light, medium and heavy crude grades. Its refineries hold a peer-leading position in bottoms upgrading capacity, supporting greater use of medium and heavy barrels while retaining the flexibility to shift toward lighter crude when economics favor that mix. This flexibility gives PSX more options to capture favorable feedstock discounts across changing crude markets. The company sources low-cost hydrocarbons from the United States, Canada and Latin America and converts them into higher-value refined products.
PSX’s commercial network strengthens the advantage by optimizing crude sourcing across its refining system. Management highlighted the company's ability to replace costlier international crude with cheaper domestic grades at its U.S. refineries while marketing higher-priced barrels elsewhere, thereby strengthening refining margins. Phillips 66 has expanded its exposure to advantaged Canadian and Venezuelan crude supplies, providing additional opportunities when heavy crude differentials widen.
Please note that every $1-per-barrel widening in the West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”)/Western Canadian Select (“WCS”) differential adds an estimated $140 million to PSX’s annual EBITDA, highlighting the earnings leverage from discounted heavy crude. This feedstock flexibility complements improving refinery utilization, clean product yields and cost discipline, with crude utilization reaching 96% and realized refining margin at $24.08 per barrel in the second quarter of 2026. Therefore, Phillips 66’s ability to switch among crude grades, source advantaged barrels and optimize flows across its integrated network strengthens its refining margins and supports more resilient downstream earnings.
Flexible Feedstocks Aid Refining Margin for MPC & VLOAmong Phillips 66’s refining peers, Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC - Free Report) benefits from a highly flexible refining network that provides access to abundant, advantaged North American crude. MPC highlights the flexibility of its refining system as a key margin driver, while the Garyville Feedstock Optimization project is designed to improve the feedstock slate and raise crude throughput by 30,000 barrels per day by year-end 2027. For MPC, this combination of complex refining assets and feedstock optimization strengthens its ability to capture favorable crude differentials and lift refining economics.
Valero Energy Corporation (VLO - Free Report) operates a large refining network with 14 refineries and nearly 3 million barrels per day of throughput capacity, giving it significant flexibility in feedstock selection and product optimization. VLO processes a broad range of feedstocks, including heavy sour crude at its Port Arthur refinery, giving the company exposure to discounted crude grades when market spreads are favorable. This flexibility, combined with extensive pipelines, storage and dock infrastructure, helps VLO direct advantaged feedstocks across its system and support stronger margin capture.
Together, MPC and VLO demonstrate that feedstock flexibility and access to discounted crude grades remain key competitive advantages for complex U.S. refiners.
PSX’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesPhillips 66 shares have gained 109.1% over the past year compared with the industry’s 128.7% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, PSX trades at a trailing 12-month enterprise-value-to-EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) of 12.46X. This is above the broader industry average of 6.38X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PSX's 2026 earnings has seen upward revisions over the past seven days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PSX currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Analytici očekávají, že Caterpillar vykáže čtvrtletní zisk ve výši 7,12 USD na akcii, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 43,8 %, a tržby ve výši 20,58 miliardy USD, meziročně vyšší o 16,7 %.
In its upcoming report, Caterpillar (CAT - Free Report) is predicted by Wall Street analysts to post quarterly earnings of $7.12 per share, reflecting an increase of 43.8% compared to the same period last year. Revenues are forecasted to be $20.58 billion, representing a year-over-year increase of 16.7%.
Over the past 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been adjusted upward by 3.5% to its current level. This demonstrates the covering analysts' collective reassessment of their initial projections during this period.
Before a company announces its earnings, it is essential to take into account any changes made to earnings estimates. This is a valuable factor in predicting the potential reactions of investors toward the stock. Empirical research has consistently shown a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While it's common for investors to rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates for assessing how the business may have performed during the quarter, exploring analysts' forecasts for key metrics can yield valuable insights.
In light of this perspective, let's dive into the average estimates of certain Caterpillar metrics that are commonly tracked and forecasted by Wall Street analysts.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Total sales and revenues- Machinery, Power & Energy- All Other Segments' will reach $70.45 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -3.5%.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Total sales and revenues- Machinery, Power & Energy- Construction Industries' will likely reach $7.84 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +16% from the prior-year quarter.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Inter-segment sales and revenue- Machinery, Power & Energy- Power & Energy' at $1.42 billion. The estimate points to a change of +6.3% from the year-ago quarter.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Total sales and revenues- Machinery, Power & Energy- Power & Energy' should come in at $8.58 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +2.2%.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Sales and Revenues- Asia/Pacific- Machinery, Power & Energy- Total' of $3.06 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +9.8%.
Analysts forecast 'Sales and Revenues- Asia/Pacific- Machinery, Power & Energy- All Other Segments' to reach $2.94 million. The estimate suggests a change of -2% year over year.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Sales and Revenues- Latin America- Machinery, Power & Energy- Total' should arrive at $1.93 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +9.7%.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Sales and Revenues- North America- Machinery, Power & Energy- Total' reaching $10.76 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +18.9% from the prior-year quarter.
Analysts expect 'Sales Volume - Machinery, Power & Energy - Power & Energy' to come in at $713.92 million. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $870.00 million in the same quarter last year.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Price Realization - Machinery, Power & Energy - Power & Energy' will reach $213.86 million. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $132.00 million in the same quarter last year.
Analysts predict that the 'Sales Volume - Machinery, Power & Energy - Construction Industries' will reach $746.10 million. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $568.00 million in the same quarter last year.
The consensus estimate for 'Sales Volume - Machinery, Power & Energy - Resource Industries' stands at $417.26 million. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of $138.00 million.
View all Key Company Metrics for Caterpillar here>>>
Shares of Caterpillar have demonstrated returns of -16.4% over the past month compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. With a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), CAT is expected to beat the overall market performance in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Chord Energy v předběžných výsledcích za třetí čtvrtletí překonala produkční výhled s produkcí 290 500 až 290 900 barelů ropného ekvivalentu (BOE) denně, zatímco kapitálové výdaje byly v souladu s očekáváním.
Chord Energy NASDAQ: CHRD may not be a household name, but the oil producer has delivered impressive returns to shareholders in 2026.
CHRD shares have rallied more than 70% year to date, supported by higher oil prices and strong cash generation. But after such a substantial gain, can the company continue delivering attractive returns to investors?
Chord Energy Corporation (CHRD) Price Chart for Monday, October, 26, 2026
The company's preliminary third-quarter results, released Oct. 19, showed production exceeding guidance while capital spending remained within expectations. With full third-quarter earnings scheduled for Nov. 4, investors will soon get a clearer picture of whether that operating strength can support continued shareholder returns.
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Higher Oil Prices Drive Strong EarningsHigher oil prices have helped fuel Chord's earnings growth so far this year, with crude recently fluctuating around $100 per barrel.
That strength was evident in Chord's second-quarter 2026 results, released Aug. 5, which were strong on nearly every metric that matters to an oil-and-gas producer.
Total revenues reached $2.17 billion. Net income swung to $525.2 million from a loss of $389.9 million a year earlier, and earnings per share (EPS) of $6.44 more than tripled from $1.79 in the second quarter of 2025. Adjusted EBITDA reached $923.5 million, while adjusted net income totaled $361.7 million
The improvement was driven by a combination of higher realized oil prices and production growth. The company said it realized $93.99 per barrel of oil before hedges, compared with $61.62 a year ago and $70.05 from the first quarter.
Total output reached 286,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day, with crude oil making up the majority of that production.
Free Cash Flow Fuels Shareholder ReturnsChord Energy Today
$157.51 -0.62 (-0.39%)
As of 11:28 AM Eastern
This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.
$84.25▼
$159.963.30%
10.53
$174.54
Chord's preliminary third-quarter results suggest its cash-generation momentum has continued. The company reported production of 290,500 to 290,900 barrels of oil equivalent per day, exceeding its previous guidance range of 277,700 to 284,000. Capital spending remained within expectations, helping adjusted free cash flow exceed management's projections.
That performance builds on a strong second quarter, when Chord generated $414.1 million of adjusted free cash flow and repurchased more than $147 million of its shares. Together with its $1.30-per-share base dividend, the buybacks brought total shareholder returns to 54% of second-quarter adjusted free cash flow.
Management previously said it expected to increase shareholder returns to 75% of adjusted free cash flow in the third quarter. In line with that strategy, Chord repurchased $205 million of its shares during Q3, followed by another $44.3 million during the fourth quarter (through Oct. 19), demonstrating its continued commitment to returning cash to shareholders.
For the full year, management previously guided to adjusted EBITDA of roughly $3 billion and adjusted free cash flow of about $1.3 billion.
Asset Sale Sharpens Focus on Williston BasinChord operates primarily in the Williston Basin in North Dakota and Montana, where it holds a substantial portfolio of oil-producing assets. The company has spent the past year sharpening its focus on those operations.
In September, Chord announced an agreement to sell its entire non-operated position in the Marcellus shale to POSCO International for $550 million, with an expected close in the fourth quarter of 2026.
The divestiture would concentrate Chord's operations exclusively in the Williston Basin while strengthening its balance sheet and giving management greater flexibility in allocating capital.
Even After Chord's Rally, Analysts See 10% UpsideChord Energy Stock Forecast Today12-Month Stock Price Forecast:
$174.54
10.38% Upside
Moderate Buy
Based on 17 Analyst Ratings
Current Price$158.13High Forecast$197.00Average Forecast$174.54Low Forecast$128.00Chord Energy Stock Forecast Details
Although rated a consensus Moderate Buy by analysts, recommendations are strongly weighted to Buy. Of the 17 analysts following the stock, 14 rate the company a Buy, including two at a Strong Buy. Only three analysts recommend a Hold.
With an average price target of $174.54, the upside sits at about 10%. The highest price target is $197, while the lowest is $128.
After such a substantial rally, investors should consider how much of Chord's strong operating performance is already reflected in its share price. The stock could be vulnerable if oil prices retreat or the upcoming earnings report fails to meet expectations.
Oil Price Volatility Threatens Future ReturnsDespite Chord's strong operating performance, the central risk here is that its earnings and shareholder returns remain highly sensitive to oil prices.
Chord's full-year financial guidance, issued with its second-quarter results, assumed West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude prices of $75 per barrel for the second half of 2026. A sustained decline in oil prices could reduce free cash flow and limit the amount available for share repurchases and dividends.
The company also carries meaningful exposure to international oil policy, global demand growth, and the possibility that U.S. shale production growth outpaces demand. A further risk is the rising cost of doing business in the basin, with management noting an expected increase in lease operating expenses.
And while the Marcellus sale simplifies the story, it also reduces the company's natural-gas diversification, leaving it more dependent on oil prices and production from the Williston Basin.
Can Chord Keep Rewarding Shareholders?For income investors comfortable with oil-price volatility, Chord offers dividend income alongside the potential for additional returns through share repurchases. The shares have already had a strong year, but the cash-return story remains intact.
Chord's stronger-than-expected production and disciplined capital spending support its ability to continue generating cash for shareholders. However, after a rally of more than 70% this year, investors must consider how much of that strength is already reflected in the stock price.
That consideration is particularly important for oil producers, which can experience sharp swings in profitability during commodity downturns, making shareholder returns less certain.
The upcoming earnings report will provide an important test of Chord's investment case, particularly whether stronger production is translating into enough free cash flow to support continued dividends and buybacks. For investors considering a position, the key question is whether the potential returns justify the risks of oil price volatility after such a substantial rally.
Should You Invest $1,000 in Chord Energy Right Now?Before you consider Chord Energy, you'll want to hear this.
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Genuine Parts vykázala čtvrtletní tržby ve výši 6,52 miliardy USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 4,2 %. Tržby v Evropě dosáhly 1,04 miliardy USD, tedy o 4,1 % méně, než očekávali analytici.
Have you evaluated the performance of Genuine Parts' (GPC - Free Report) international operations for the quarter ending September 2026? Given the extensive global presence of this auto and industrial parts distributor, analyzing the patterns in international revenues is crucial for understanding its financial strength and potential for growth.
In today's increasingly interconnected global economy, a company's ability to tap into international markets can be a pivotal factor in shaping its overall financial health and growth trajectory. For investors, understanding a company's reliance on overseas markets has become increasingly crucial, as it offers insights into the company's sustainability of earnings, ability to tap into diverse economic cycles and overall growth potential.
International market involvement serves as insurance against economic downturns at home and enables engagement with economies that are growing more quickly. Still, this move toward diversification is not without its challenges, as it involves navigating through the fluctuations of currencies, geopolitical threats, and the distinctive nature of various markets.
While analyzing GPC's performance for the last quarter, we found some intriguing trends in revenues from its overseas segments that Wall Street analysts commonly model and monitor.
For the quarter, the company's total revenue amounted to $6.52 billion, experiencing an increase of 4.2% year over year. Next, we'll explore the breakdown of GPC's international revenue to understand the importance of its overseas business operations.
Decoding GPC's International Revenue TrendsAustralasia generated $680.57 million in revenues for the company in the last quarter, constituting 10.4% of the total. This represented a surprise of +2.46% compared to the $664.23 million projected by Wall Street analysts. Comparatively, in the previous quarter, Australasia accounted for $654.14 million (10%), and in the year-ago quarter, it contributed $623.34 million (10%) to the total revenue.
During the quarter, Europe contributed $1.04 billion in revenue, making up 16% of the total revenue. When compared to the consensus estimate of $1.08 billion, this meant a surprise of -4.1%. Looking back, Europe contributed $1.08 billion, or 16.5%, in the previous quarter, and $1.02 billion, or 16.3%, in the same quarter of the previous year.
International Revenue PredictionsThe current fiscal quarter's total revenue for Genuine Parts, as projected by Wall Street analysts, is expected to reach $6.22 billion, reflecting an increase of 3.5% from the same quarter last year. The breakdown of this revenue by foreign region is as follows: Australasia is anticipated to contribute 10% or $621.5 million, and Europe 16.5% or $1.02 billion.
For the full year, the company is expected to generate $25.52 billion in total revenue, up 5% from the previous year. Revenues from Australasia and Europe are expected to constitute 10.1% ($2.57 billion), and 16.8% ($4.28 billion) of the total, respectively.
Closing RemarksThe dependency of Genuine Parts on global markets for its revenues presents a mix of potential gains and hazards. Thus, monitoring the trends in its overseas revenues can be a key indicator for predicting the firm's future performance.
In an era of growing international ties and escalating geopolitical disputes, financial analysts on Wall Street pay keen attention to these developments to fine-tune their earnings estimations for businesses operating across borders. It's important to note, however, that a range of additional variables, like a company's local market status, also play a crucial role in shaping these forecasts.
Here at Zacks, we put a great deal of emphasis on a company's changing earnings outlook, as empirical research has shown that's a powerful force driving a stock's near-term price performance. Quite naturally, the correlation is positive here -- an upward revision in earnings estimates drives the stock price higher.
The Zacks Rank, our proprietary stock rating tool, comes with an externally validated impressive track record. It effectively utilizes shifts in earnings projections to act as a dependable barometer for forecasting short-term stock price trends.
At the moment, Genuine Parts has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell), signifying that it may underperform the overall market trend in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Examining the Latest Trends in Genuine Parts' Stock ValueThe stock has witnessed a decline of 5.1% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's a decrease of 1.2%. In the same interval, the Zacks Retail-Wholesale sector, to which Genuine Parts belongs, has registered an increase of 2.3%. Over the past three months, the company's shares saw a decrease of 1.1%, while the S&P 500 increased by 2.5%. In comparison, the sector experienced an increase of 1.1% during this timeframe.
Have you looked into how Dover Corporation (DOV - Free Report) performed internationally during the quarter ending September 2026? Considering the widespread global presence of this company, examining the trends in international revenues is essential for assessing its financial resilience and prospects for growth.
In today's increasingly interconnected global economy, a company's ability to tap into international markets can be a pivotal factor in shaping its overall financial health and growth trajectory. For investors, understanding a company's reliance on overseas markets has become increasingly crucial, as it offers insights into the company's sustainability of earnings, ability to tap into diverse economic cycles and overall growth potential.
Being present in foreign markets serves as protection against local economic declines and helps benefit from more rapidly expanding economies. Yet, such expansion also introduces challenges related to currency fluctuations, geopolitical uncertainties and varied market behaviors.
While analyzing DOV's performance for the last quarter, we found some intriguing trends in revenues from its overseas segments that Wall Street analysts commonly model and monitor.
The company's total revenue for the quarter amounted to $2.23 billion, showing rise of 7.5%. We will now explore the breakdown of DOV's overseas revenue to assess the impact of its international operations.
A Look into DOV's International Revenue StreamsAsia generated $260.14 million in revenues for the company in the last quarter, constituting 11.7% of the total. This represented a surprise of +6.44% compared to the $244.4 million projected by Wall Street analysts. Comparatively, in the previous quarter, Asia accounted for $243.87 million (11.1%), and in the year-ago quarter, it contributed $222.1 million (10.7%) to the total revenue.
Of the total revenue, $447.32 million came from Europe during the last fiscal quarter, accounting for 20%. This represented a surprise of -7% as analysts had expected the region to contribute $480.97 million to the total revenue. In comparison, the region contributed $458.21 million, or 20.9%, and $464.23 million, or 22.3%, to total revenue in the previous and year-ago quarters, respectively.
During the quarter, Other International contributed $83.79 million in revenue, making up 3.8% of the total revenue. When compared to the consensus estimate of $97.69 million, this meant a surprise of -14.23%. Looking back, Other International contributed $88.31 million, or 4%, in the previous quarter, and $83.47 million, or 4%, in the same quarter of the previous year.
Other Americas accounted for 7.6% of the company's total revenue during the quarter, translating to $170.12 million. Revenues from this region represented a surprise of -10.79%, with Wall Street analysts collectively expecting $190.69 million. When compared to the preceding quarter and the same quarter in the previous year, Other Americas contributed $182.24 million (8.3%) and $182.03 million (8.8%) to the total revenue, respectively.
International Revenue PredictionsIt is projected by analysts on Wall Street that Dover will post revenues of $2.22 billion for the ongoing fiscal quarter, an increase of 5.9% from the year-ago quarter. The expected contributions from Asia, Europe, Other International and Other Americas to this revenue are 11.1%, 21.6%, 3.9%, and 8.6%, translating into $247.45 million, $479.79 million, $87.33 million, and $190.77 million, respectively.
For the full year, the company is projected to achieve a total revenue of $8.66 billion, which signifies a rise of 7% from the last year. The share of this revenue from various regions is expected to be: Asia at 11% ($951.8 million), Europe at 21.6% ($1.87 billion), Other International at 3.9% ($340.91 million), and Other Americas at 8.5% ($733.28 million).
Concluding RemarksDover's leaning on foreign markets for its revenue stream presents a mix of chances and challenges. Therefore, a vigilant watch on its international revenue movements can greatly aid in projecting the company's future direction.
In an environment where global interconnections and geopolitical skirmishes are intensifying, Wall Street analysts keep a keen eye on these trends, particularly for firms with overseas operations, to adjust their earnings predictions. Moreover, a range of other aspects, including how a company fares in its home country, significantly affects these projections.
Emphasizing a company's shifting earnings prospects is a key aspect of our approach at Zacks, especially since research has proven its substantial influence on a stock's price in the short run. This correlation is positively aligned, meaning that improved earnings projections tend to boost the stock's price.
Our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, with its externally validated exceptional track record, harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions to serve as a dependable measure for anticipating the short-term price trends of stocks.
At the moment, Dover has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), signifying that its performance may align with the overall market trend in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Assessing Dover Corporation's Stock Price Movement in Recent TimesThe stock has increased by 3.8% over the past month compared to the 1.2% fall of the Zacks S&P 500 composite. Meanwhile, the Zacks Industrial Products sector, which includes Dover,has decreased 5.4% during this time frame. Over the past three months, the company's shares have experienced a loss of 2.7% relative to the S&P 500's 2.5% increase. Throughout this period, the sector overall has witnessed a 6.1% decrease.
Key Takeaways Agnico Eagle reports Q3 results on Oct. 28, after the closing bell, following four straight earnings beats.Higher realized gold prices are expected to boost results, with Q3 sales estimated at $3.53 billion.Barnat pit disruptions may weigh on third-quarter output, while rising costs pressure profitability. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (AEM - Free Report) is slated to report third-quarter 2026 results after the closing bell on Oct. 28.
AEM beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in each of the last four quarters, with the average being roughly 9.9%. Its third-quarter results are expected to reflect the benefits of higher realized gold prices amid cost and production headwinds.
AEM’s shares have gained 12.1% in a year, underperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry’s 13.8% rise.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Let’s see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
What do AEM’s Revenue Estimates Indicate?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AEM’s third-quarter consolidated sales is currently pegged at $3,533.3 million, calling for an increase of 16.1% from the year-ago quarter’s tally.
Factors Shaping AEM’s Q3 ResultsThe benefits of higher realized gold prices are expected to reflect on the company’s third-quarter performance. However, the pricing tailwind is likely to have been weaker in the third quarter compared with the second quarter.
Although gold prices have retreated sharply from their January 2026 peak, they remain at supportive levels. Gold came under renewed pressure after reaching a more than three-month high near $4,650 per ounce in late August 2026. Bullion prices fell toward $4,300 an ounce following the U.S. Federal Reserve’s interest rate hike, its first in more than three years, and expectations of another increase before the year-end. A stronger U.S. dollar and inflation worries stemming from an uptick in oil prices amid concerns over supply disruptions put pressure on gold in September.
Bullion closed the third quarter at around $4,150 per ounce, roughly 8% higher year over year. Our estimate for the realized gold price for the third quarter for AEM is pegged at $4,314 per ounce, indicating a 24.1% year-over-year increase.
Meanwhile, Agnico Eagle saw less production in the first half of 2026 due to lower grades and throughput across certain mines. Production also fell in the second quarter, impacted by reduced production from Canadian Malartic. Barnat pit wall movement is a key near-term operational risk. A rock mass movement at the Barnat open pit at Canadian Malartic involved roughly one million tons of material. Mining was suspended at the pit, with a resumption anticipated in the fourth quarter. The event is projected to reduce gold production at Canadian Malartic by 60,000-80,000 ounces in the second half of 2026, and is likely to have impacted the third-quarter output.
Higher production costs are likely to have weighed on AEM’s profitability. Its all-in-sustaining costs (AISC) — a critical cost metric for miners — were $1,459 per ounce in the second quarter, marking a roughly 14% year-over-year rise, impacted by higher total cash costs and an uptick in sustaining capital expenditures. Total cash costs per ounce for gold were $1,054, 14% higher than $925 a year ago. Total cash costs rose due to increased royalty costs, higher labor and energy costs and lower production. While Agnico Eagle is taking action to control costs, the inflationary pressure is likely to have continued in the third quarter, weighing on its overall financial performance.
Our estimate for AISC on a by-product basis stands at $1,467 per ounce for the third quarter, which indicates a 6.8% year-over-year increase.
What Our Model Unveils for AEM StockOur proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for Agnico Eagle this season. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. But that’s not the case here.
Earnings ESP: Earnings ESP for AEM is -0.21%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the third quarter is currently pinned at $2.44. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: AEM currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
Basic Materials Stocks That Warrant a LookHere are some companies in the basic materials space you may want to consider, as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (FCX - Free Report) , scheduled to release earnings on Oct. 27, has an Earnings ESP of +0.63% and carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The consensus estimate for FCX’s earnings for the third quarter is currently pegged at 80 cents.
DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (DD - Free Report) , scheduled to release earnings on Nov. 3, has an Earnings ESP of +1.35%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DD’s earnings for the third quarter is currently pegged at $1.86. DD currently carries a Zacks Rank #3.
Huntsman Corporation (HUN - Free Report) , slated to release earnings on Nov. 2, has an Earnings ESP of +36.14% and carries a Zacks Rank #3 at present.
The consensus mark for HUN’s third-quarter earnings is currently pegged at 7 cents.
Kinross Gold zveřejní hospodářské výsledky za 3. čtvrtletí 28. října; konsenzus očekává tržby ve výši 2,0806 mld. USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 15,5 %.
Key Takeaways KGC reports Q3 results on Oct. 28, after the closing bell, following four straight earnings beats.Higher gold prices and strong output at Tasiast and Paracatu are likely to lift quarterly performance.Higher fuel, royalty and labor costs may pressure Kinross Gold's third-quarter margins.
Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC - Free Report) is slated to report third-quarter 2026 results after the closing bell on Oct. 28.
KGC beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in each of the trailing four quarters. In this timeframe, it delivered an earnings surprise of 11.7%, on average. The benefits of higher gold prices and strong production are expected to reflect on its third-quarter performance amid cost headwinds.
KGC’s shares have declined 2% in a year, underperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry’s 13.7% rise.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Let’s see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
What do KGC’s Revenue Estimates Indicate?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KGC’s third-quarter consolidated sales is currently pegged at $2,080.6 million, calling for an increase of 15.5% from the year-ago quarter’s tally.
Factors Shaping KGC’s Q3 ResultsHigher gold prices are likely to have supported the company’s performance in the third quarter. Although gold prices have retreated sharply from their January 2026 peak, they remain at supportive levels. Gold came under renewed pressure after reaching a more than three-month high near $4,650 per ounce in late August 2026. Bullion prices fell toward $4,300 an ounce following the U.S. Federal Reserve’s interest rate hike, its first in more than three years, and expectations of another increase before the year-end.
A stronger U.S. dollar and inflation worries stemming from an uptick in oil prices amid concerns over supply disruptions put pressure on gold in September. Bullion closed the third quarter at around $4,150 per ounce, roughly 8% higher year over year.
The strength in gold prices is expected to have allowed KGC to maintain strong margin performance in the September quarter. Our estimate for the third-quarter average realized gold price per ounce for KGC is pegged at $4,138, suggesting a 19.6% rise from the prior-year quarter.
Meanwhile, Tasiast and Paracatu remain the anchor assets in Kinross’ portfolio and continue to provide lower-cost production. They remain the key contributors to KGC's cash flow generation and account for more than half of its production. Both Tasiast and Paracatu are expected to have delivered solid production performance in the third quarter.
Kinross, however, is expected to have faced headwinds from higher production costs in the quarter to be reported. Its attributable production cost of sales was $1,336 per gold equivalent ounce in the second quarter, up from $1,074 a year ago, while the first-half figure rose to $1,358 from $1,056 in the prior-year period. The increase reflected higher fuel, royalty and labor costs. It saw second-quarter attributable all-in-sustaining costs (AISC) of $1,821 per ounce, marking a 22% increase from the year-ago quarter. AISC is expected to have been adversely impacted by cost inflation from elevated crude oil prices in the September quarter.
What Our Model Unveils for KGC StockOur proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for Kinross this season. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. But that’s not the case here.
Earnings ESP: Earnings ESP for KGC is -3.73%. The Most Accurate Estimate is pegged at 45 cents, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate is pinned at 47 cents. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: KGC currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
Basic Materials Stocks That Warrant a LookHere are some companies in the basic materials space you may want to consider, as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (FCX - Free Report) , scheduled to release earnings on Oct. 27, has an Earnings ESP of +0.63% and carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The consensus estimate for FCX’s earnings for the third quarter is currently pegged at 80 cents.
DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (DD - Free Report) , scheduled to release earnings on Nov. 3, has an Earnings ESP of +1.35%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DD’s earnings for the third quarter is currently pegged at $1.86. DD currently carries a Zacks Rank #3.
Huntsman Corporation (HUN - Free Report) , slated to release earnings on Nov. 2, has an Earnings ESP of +36.14% and carries a Zacks Rank #3 at present.
The consensus mark for HUN’s third-quarter earnings is currently pegged at 7 cents.
T-Mobile v listopadu spustí tarify T-Mix, v jejichž rámci zákazníci získají „Picks“ na telefon nebo služby, jako jsou Netflix či ESPN, a budou je moci měnit každých 90 dní.
T-Mobile’s new T-Mix plans let customers spend “Picks” on perks or a new phone. (Photo by appshunter.io on Unsplash) T-Mobile is introducing new wireless plans that change how customers get perks and phone deals, giving them a set number of “Picks” to spend on a new phone or an expanded menu of extras that they can swap out every 90 days.
The company says it will be the only carrier that lets customers choose which benefits come with their plan. Instead of fixed bundles of extras plus a discount on a new phone for each line, customers get a single allowance to spend on options ranging from Netflix and ESPN to Xbox Game Pass, Google’s Gemini AI and Delta SkyMiles.
One catch is that phones and perks come out of the same pool of Picks, so a family that wants a new phone on every line may have little left to put toward extras.
Allan Samson, T-Mobile’s chief marketing officer, says Picks are “essentially a form of currency.” (T-Mobile Photo) The plans, called T-Mix, will be available in November. Existing customers can switch or keep their current plans, said Allan Samson, T-Mobile’s chief marketing officer.
The move comes as T-Mobile’s customer growth slows and new rivals emerge, including SpaceX, a current T-Mobile partner that is reportedly planning a wireless service of its own. T-Mobile’s stock is down about 26% this year, including a drop of nearly 8% on Friday after a report on SpaceX’s wireless plans.
The Bellevue, Wash.-based company has relied for years on “Un-carrier” moves — splashy changes that defy industry conventions — to capture consumer attention.
Samson described T-Mix as the latest of those moves, aimed at what the company’s research identified as a top customer complaint: paying for extras they don’t use. Picks are “essentially a form of currency,” he said. “You can use them for anything you want.”
A subscription hub: With the new plans, T-Mobile is adding a much larger menu of subscriptions in an attempt to turn its plans into a hub for streaming, music, gaming and AI services.
Along with longtime perks such as Netflix, Hulu and Apple TV, the new options include ESPN’s Unlimited streaming service, Xbox Game Pass, YouTube Premium, Apple Music and Google’s Gemini AI subscriptions.
The company says people spend far more on subscriptions than they realize. In T-Mobile’s research, customers estimated spending about $90 a month, Samson said. A separate study by C+R Research puts average spending at $219.
A big part of the idea is to consolidate that spending and let customers move among services more freely, picking up a streaming service for a new show, for example, or adding satellite coverage for a summer trip, then dropping it afterward.
Customers can make those changes every 90 days in the T-Life app. T-Mobile texts them when a 10-day change window opens, and their choices roll over if they do nothing. T-Mobile handles the switch between services in its plans, although the fine print notes that customers may need to initially cancel existing subscriptions on their own to avoid paying twice.
T-Mobile buys subscriptions below retail prices through deals it negotiates with streaming services and other partners. That lets T-Mobile include the services in its plans for less than it would cost customers to subscribe on their own.
Phones vs. perks: For consumers, one trade-off for the newfound flexibility is that phones and perks now draw from the same finite supply.
Customers who hold on to their phones or choose less-expensive models can put that value toward streaming and other extras, but a family that wants a new phone on every line may not have enough Picks to cover them.
Whether consumers end up getting more or less for their money depends largely on how many lines they have and how often they buy new phones. Smaller accounts that keep their phones are likely to come out ahead. Larger families that upgrade every line may pay more and get less, because T-Mobile is also dropping its long-standing free third line.
Samson estimated that accounts with one or two lines will pay $5 to $10 a month less than on T-Mobile’s current plans, while a five-line account might pay $10 to $15 more. Across all of its customers, he said, pricing is roughly the same.
T-Mobile says a family of three on its Loaded plan, which costs $200 a month ($2,400 a year) with AutoPay before taxes and fees, gets more than $4,320 a year in plan features and benefits, based on its own valuation.
The math behind the Picks: Customers choose from three plans, with base prices for customers on AutoPay, before taxes and fees:
Standard: $55 a month for one line, with one Pick. It’s the basic plan, with limits on high-priority data and video quality. More: $75 a month, with two Picks, unlimited high-priority data and 4K video. Loaded: $95 a month, with three Picks and the largest allowances for hotspot use and international data. Adding lines adds Picks, and Picks apply to the whole account, so one Netflix subscription covers the family. Unused Picks don’t accumulate from one quarter to the next.
Most extras cost one or two Picks. Ad-free Netflix costs three, and ESPN Unlimited costs four. Phones cost Picks, too: two for an iPhone and three for an iPhone Pro, Samson said, tied up for the three-year payment plan. A four-line account on the More plan gets seven Picks, not enough for a new iPhone on every line.
T-Mobile’s three T-Mix plans, with prices, data allowances and what each perk costs in Picks. Click to enlarge. (T-Mobile Graphic) No price guarantee: The terms say T-Mobile may change the benefits and the number of Picks each one requires at any time, with changes taking effect the following quarter. Customers who change a partner benefit outside a change window may have to pay a fee. Once a year, customers will also be asked to reselect their benefits.
The launch comes less than a week after New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a settlement with T-Mobile over its 2017 “Price Guarantee” plans, which promised customers the carrier would “never change the price you pay.”
T-Mobile raised prices on those plans by about $5 a line in 2024. It agreed to offer refunds and other options that the attorney general’s office expects to provide more than $38 million in value, and to freeze prices for affected customers until at least 2029.
Asked about price protections, Samson said T-Mix plans don’t come with a guarantee. T-Mobile can control its network costs, he said, but not what partners such as Apple and Xbox charge, although it has multiyear deals in place.
“We didn’t want to be disingenuous,” he said, adding that partner prices are set for the next couple of years but “I can’t tell you what’s going to happen in 2030.”
The Un-carrier playbook: T-Mobile launched its Un-carrier campaign in 2013 by dropping two-year contracts. Samson said the company makes an Un-carrier move only when it sees a big customer pain point and believes it has something unique to offer.
T-Mobile has been testing T-Mix since Oct. 1 in 37 stores in Kansas City. Only about 70% of Picks were chosen in the store at the time of purchase, Samson said, in part because families wanted to go home and decide together, and some customers were saving Picks for phones coming out later.
Details of the plans leaked in recent weeks, first reported by The Mobile Report and later by PhoneArena.
Verizon lets customers add discounted streaming bundles to its plans for an extra monthly charge. Samson said the difference with T-Mix is that the benefits are included in the plan price.
Upholding the company’s tradition of jabbing at rivals, he described one competitor’s approach as “naked connectivity.” The other, he said, will “throw you a nice phone and then leave you alone. And every now and then, there’s a rate increase.”
The plans are also one of the first major consumer moves under CEO Srini Gopalan, who succeeded Mike Sievert in the role last November.
T-Mobile’s account growth has slowed this year. In the second quarter, it added a net 277,000 postpaid accounts (households and businesses that pay a monthly bill rather than prepaying for service). That was down 13% from 318,000 a year earlier.
The company reports third-quarter results Wednesday, two days after Verizon.
SpaceX is also reportedly seeking cell sites to build a rival wireless network, even though T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service runs on SpaceX’s Starlink.
Samson, who joined Sprint in 2016 and stayed on after its 2020 merger with T-Mobile, became CMO earlier this year. He previously ran the company’s broadband business and was CMO of T-Mobile for Business. He said T-Mix has been his pet project since taking his current role, starting with interviews with hundreds of consumers.
Samson said it’s too early to say how T-Mix will affect the business. “Ask me in six months once I have about six months under my wings nationwide,” he said, “and then we’ll have some actuals to report.”
Clorox očekává za čtvrtletí zisk na akcii (EPS) ve výši 0,97 USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 14,1 %, a tržby ve výši 1,87 miliardy USD, meziročně vyšší o 31 %.
Wall Street expects a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when Clorox (CLX - Free Report) reports results for the quarter ended September 2026. While this widely-known consensus outlook is important in gauging the company's earnings picture, a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.
The earnings report, which is expected to be released on November 2, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis consumer products maker is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.97 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +14.1%.
Revenues are expected to be $1.87 billion, up 31% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 1.79% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts may not always get reflected in the aggregate change.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Clorox?For Clorox, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +4.31%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #4.
So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Clorox will beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Clorox would post earnings of $1.64 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.66, delivering a surprise of +1.22%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates three times.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Clorox doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
An Industry Player's Expected ResultsAmong the stocks in the Zacks Consumer Products - Staples industry, Church & Dwight (CHD - Free Report) , is soon expected to post earnings of $0.9 per share for the quarter ended September 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +11.1%. This quarter's revenue is expected to be $1.58 billion, down 0.2% from the year-ago quarter.
Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for Church & Dwight has been revised 0.2% down to the current level. Nevertheless, the company now has an Earnings ESP of +0.06%, reflecting a higher Most Accurate Estimate.
When combined with a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold), this Earnings ESP indicates that Church & Dwight will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
Wall Street analysts forecast that Gilead Sciences (GILD - Free Report) will report quarterly earnings of $2.17 per share in its upcoming release, pointing to a year-over-year decline of 12.2%. It is anticipated that revenues will amount to $7.81 billion, exhibiting an increase of 0.6% compared to the year-ago quarter.
The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has undergone a downward revision of 1.7% in the past 30 days, bringing it to its present level. This represents how the covering analysts, as a whole, have reassessed their initial estimates during this timeframe.
Before a company reveals its earnings, it is vital to take into account any changes in earnings projections. These revisions play a pivotal role in predicting the possible reactions of investors toward the stock. Multiple empirical studies have consistently shown a strong association between trends in earnings estimates and the short-term price movements of a stock.
While investors typically use consensus earnings and revenue estimates as indicators of quarterly business performance, exploring analysts' projections for specific key metrics can offer valuable insights.
In light of this perspective, let's dive into the average estimates of certain Gilead metrics that are commonly tracked and forecasted by Wall Street analysts.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Product Sales- HIV- Odefsey- Total' should come in at $202.57 million. The estimate suggests a change of -26.9% year over year.
Analysts expect 'Total product sales- Total' to come in at $7.75 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +5.6% year over year.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Revenues- Royalty contract and other revenues' should arrive at $62.02 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -85.4%.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Product Sales- Liver Disease- Vemlidy- Total' reaching $252.48 million. The estimate points to a change of -9.8% from the year-ago quarter.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Product Sales- HIV- Genvoya- U.S.' at $249.96 million. The estimate suggests a change of -22.6% year over year.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Total product sales- U.S.' will reach $5.74 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +8.9% from the prior-year quarter.
The consensus estimate for 'Product Sales- HIV- Odefsey- U.S.' stands at $162.41 million. The estimate indicates a change of -21.2% from the prior-year quarter.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Product Sales- Liver Disease- Vemlidy- U.S.' will reach $118.92 million. The estimate indicates a change of -12.6% from the prior-year quarter.
Analysts predict that the 'Product Sales- Oncology- Cell Therapy- Yescarta- U.S.' will reach $103.23 million. The estimate suggests a change of -16.1% year over year.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Product Sales- HIV- Biktarvy- U.S.' will likely reach $3.12 billion. The estimate points to a change of +6.3% from the year-ago quarter.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Product Sales- HIV- Symtuza-Revenue share- U.S.' of $97.34 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +2.5%.
Analysts forecast 'Product Sales- Veklury- U.S.' to reach $34.23 million. The estimate suggests a change of -75.6% year over year.
View all Key Company Metrics for Gilead here>>>
Over the past month, Gilead shares have recorded returns of +3.4% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. Based on its Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), GILD will likely exhibit a performance that aligns with the overall market in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Akcie StoneCo během dne klesly o 30,5 % poté, co Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva vyhrál brazilské prezidentské volby se ziskem 51,8 % hlasů oproti 48,2 % hlasů pro Bolsonara.
What goes up must come down -- and boy, oh, boy is StoneCo (STNE -29.40%) stock ever coming down fast today!
Shares of the Brazilian e-commerce software companytook off like a rocket earlier this month after conservative candidate Flávio Bolsonaro outpolled incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva 47.3% to 44.8% in the first round of voting in Brazil's presidential election. But the more important run-off election wrapped up last night, and Lula pulled off an upset, winning 51.8% of votes cast to Bolsonaro's 48.2%.
Investors are furious, and they're taking out their ire on every Brazil-related stock they can find. StoneCo stock is down 30.5% as of 10:15 a.m. ET.
Image source: Getty Images.
Election Brazil 2026This news gets worse -- because the election may not even be over. Bolsonaro is refusing to concede defeat and is challenging the election results, alleging abuse of power to suppress voting in key Bolsonaro-leaning districts. While this raises the slight chance that conservatives may still win, the opposite result still seems likely, and various South American heads of state have already made their calls to congratulate the incumbent on his victory.
STNE StoneCo$8.11-$3.38 (-29.40%)
NASDAQ · As of 11:03 AM ET 10/26/26
What does any of this have to do with StoneCo?Although incorporated in the Cayman Islands, StoneCo is a Brazilian company. Investors had hoped a change in administration might help shore up Brazilian finances, lower debt and tax costs, and generally improve the business climate. That could still happen under a Lula administration -- which will now last into 2030 -- but investors don't seem optimistic.
Keep fingers crossed, though. It wouldn't take much improvement -- by anyone -- to turn this stock into a buy. StoneCo stock costs a cheap 4.2 times earnings, and Wall Street analysts expect it to grow earnings more than 16% annually over the next five years.
Rich Smith has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Analytici očekávají, že Bristol Myers Squibb vykáže čtvrtletní zisk na akcii ve výši 1,28 USD, což je meziročně o 21,5 % méně, při tržbách 12,56 miliardy USD (+2,7 %).
The upcoming report from Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY - Free Report) is expected to reveal quarterly earnings of $1.28 per share, indicating a decline of 21.5% compared to the year-ago period. Analysts forecast revenues of $12.56 billion, representing an increase of 2.7% year over year.
The current level reflects a downward revision of 0.7% in the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter over the past 30 days. This demonstrates how the analysts covering the stock have collectively reappraised their initial projections over this period.
Before a company announces its earnings, it is essential to take into account any changes made to earnings estimates. This is a valuable factor in predicting the potential reactions of investors toward the stock. Empirical research has consistently shown a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While investors typically rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates to gauge how the business may have fared during the quarter, examining analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics often helps gain a deeper insight.
With that in mind, let's delve into the average projections of some Bristol Myers metrics that are commonly tracked and projected by analysts on Wall Street.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Net Sales- Zeposia' at $165.48 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +2.8%.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Net Sales- Orencia' will reach $981.41 million. The estimate indicates a change of +1.8% from the prior-year quarter.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Net Sales- Eliquis' will likely reach $4.59 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +22.6%.
Analysts expect 'Net Sales- Yervoy' to come in at $755.79 million. The estimate suggests a change of +2.3% year over year.
Analysts forecast 'Net Sales- Abraxane- U.S.' to reach $9.24 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -61.5%.
Analysts predict that the 'Net Sales- Opdivo- U.S.' will reach $1.29 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -11.2%.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Net Sales- Pomalyst/Imnovid- U.S.' reaching $73.30 million. The estimate indicates a change of -87.7% from the prior-year quarter.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Net Sales- Pomalyst/Imnovid- International' should arrive at $44.90 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -43.2%.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Net Sales- Revlimid- U.S.' of $164.08 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -66.2%.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Net Sales- Revlimid- International' should come in at $53.05 million. The estimate points to a change of -40.4% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus estimate for 'Net Sales- Reblozyl- U.S.' stands at $592.45 million. The estimate indicates a change of +19.9% from the prior-year quarter.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Net Sales- Reblozyl- International' will reach $146.61 million. The estimate points to a change of +21.2% from the year-ago quarter.
View all Key Company Metrics for Bristol Myers here>>>
Over the past month, Bristol Myers shares have recorded returns of -2.2% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. Based on its Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), BMY will likely exhibit a performance that aligns with the overall market in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Analytici očekávají, že Pinterest vykáže čtvrtletní zisk ve výši 0,50 USD na akcii, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 31,6 %, při tržbách ve výši 1,2 miliardy USD, které by měly meziročně vzrůst o 14,5 %.
Analysts on Wall Street project that Pinterest (PINS - Free Report) will announce quarterly earnings of $0.50 per share in its forthcoming report, representing an increase of 31.6% year over year. Revenues are projected to reach $1.2 billion, increasing 14.5% from the same quarter last year.
The current level reflects no revision in the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter over the past 30 days. This demonstrates how the analysts covering the stock have collectively reappraised their initial projections over this period.
Ahead of a company's earnings disclosure, it is crucial to give due consideration to changes in earnings estimates. These revisions serve as a noteworthy factor in predicting potential investor reactions to the stock. Numerous empirical studies consistently demonstrate a strong relationship between trends in earnings estimate revision and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While it's common for investors to rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates for assessing how the business may have performed during the quarter, exploring analysts' forecasts for key metrics can yield valuable insights.
That said, let's delve into the average estimates of some Pinterest metrics that Wall Street analysts commonly model and monitor.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Geographic Revenue- Europe' should arrive at $215.64 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +11.7%.
Analysts expect 'Geographic Revenue- Rest of World' to come in at $108.15 million. The estimate indicates a change of +54.5% from the prior-year quarter.
Analysts predict that the 'Geographic Revenue- U.S. and Canada' will reach $875.97 million. The estimate indicates a change of +11.5% from the prior-year quarter.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Monthly Active Users - Global' will likely reach 653 . Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 600 in the same quarter last year.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Monthly Active Users - Rest of World' at 385 . The estimate compares to the year-ago value of 347 .
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Monthly Active Users - U.S. and Canada' should come in at 107 . The estimate compares to the year-ago value of 103 .
The consensus among analysts is that 'Monthly Active Users - Europe' will reach 160 . Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 150 in the same quarter last year.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'ARPU - U.S. and Canada' of $8.36 . The estimate compares to the year-ago value of $7.64 .
View all Key Company Metrics for Pinterest here>>>
Over the past month, shares of Pinterest have returned +18.1% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. Currently, PINS carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell), suggesting that it may underperform the overall market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Roku očekává za dané čtvrtletí EPS ve výši 0,55 USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 243,8 %, a tržby ve výši 1,41 miliardy USD, meziročně vyšší o 16,5 %.
Roku (ROKU - Free Report) is expected to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended September 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook gives a good sense of the company's earnings picture, but how the actual results compare to these estimates is a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price.
The earnings report, which is expected to be released on November 2, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call will mostly determine the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations, it's worth having a handicapping insight into the odds of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis video streaming company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.55 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +243.8%.
Revenues are expected to be $1.41 billion, up 16.5% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 1.42% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Roku?For Roku, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -8.00%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #1.
So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Roku will beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?While calculating estimates for a company's future earnings, analysts often consider to what extent it has been able to match past consensus estimates. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Roku would post earnings of $0.61 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.18, delivering a surprise of +93.44%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates four times.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Roku doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
An Industry Player's Expected ResultsAnother stock from the Zacks Broadcast Radio and Television industry, Sirius XM (SIRI - Free Report) , is soon expected to post earnings of $0.76 per share for the quarter ended September 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -9.5%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $2.16 billion, down 0% from the year-ago quarter.
Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for Sirius XM has been revised 0.5% up to the current level. Nevertheless, the company now has an Earnings ESP of +7.66%, reflecting a higher Most Accurate Estimate.
When combined with a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold), this Earnings ESP indicates that Sirius XM will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
On Sept. 30, Micron Technology (MU +3.43%) reported a monster fiscal fourth-quarter earnings report. The company set records across revenue, profitability, and cash generation. Ordinarily, blowout earnings results give investors plenty of reasons to celebrate.
However, Micron stock has been moving in the opposite direction over the last month. As of market close on Oct. 22, shares declined roughly 20% since Micron reported earnings and were trading nearly 29% below their all-time high.
What's important to understand is that Micron's sell-off isn't a reflection of a deteriorating business. Rather, investors are concerned about the sustainability of artificial intelligence (AI) spending, elevated valuations, and the likelihood that the memory industry's unusually high profitability won't last forever. Here's what smart investors need to know.
MU Micron Technology$907.64+$30.09 (+3.43%)
NASDAQ · As of 11:05 AM ET 10/26/26
Micron's earnings report was a blowout
For the fiscal fourth quarter (period ended Sept. 3), Micron generated $54.2 billion in revenue, representing nearly 380% growth year over year and a 31% increase sequentially. Profitability was even more impressive. The company's gross margin reached 87%, compared with 45% in the prior-year period. Meanwhile, earnings per share (EPS) surged to $32.87, compared with just $2.83 a year earlier.
The company's Core Data Center unit generated $18 billion in revenue, up from $1.6 billion last year. Moreover, the Cloud Memory segment contributed another $16.3 billion, nearly 4x bigger than the fourth quarter of 2025.
Micron also produced nearly $44 billion in operating cash flow and $33 billion in adjusted free cash flow, underscoring that earnings growth is translating into robust cash generation. Management expects the momentum to continue. For fiscal Q1 2027, Micron guided for $61.5 billion in revenue and EPS of $37.84. So, why are investors selling the stock like there's no tomorrow?
Image source: Getty Images.
3 reasons Micron stock is cratering
The first explanation behind Micron's sell-off is that the company is not alone. Over the last month, there has been a broader sell-off among semiconductor stocks. The iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX +2.95%) has declined 15% since Micron reported earnings. This demonstrates that weakness in the chip market extends beyond Micron itself.
SOXX data by YCharts
Second, investors are increasingly concerned about the cost and sustainability of AI capital expenditures (capex). Hyperscalers such as Amazon, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Meta Platforms are budgeting hundreds of billions of dollars annually to data centers and advanced processors.
These investments require substantial financing beyond organic cash flow generation. Bond yields are elevated as companies increasingly tap the debt markets, making investors question how long AI infrastructure spending can realistically continue to accelerate.
Recent developments have reinforced some of these concerns. For instance, Tesla recently reduced its projected 2026 capex by 20%, from more than $25 billion to roughly $20 billion. Although this decision doesn't establish a broader framework for hyperscaler spending trends, it illustrates how some of the most ambitious AI developers are forced to balance infrastructure investments with financial discipline.
The third concern is the most obvious: investors remain wary of the durability of the memory supercycle given the industry's cyclical nature. If demand eventually exceeds today's scarce supply of high-bandwidth memory (HBM), average selling prices will normalize and profit margins will erode.
Micron stock: Buy the dip or value trap?
At approximately $887 per share, Micron trades at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 7. That's a modest valuation for a company experiencing Micron's level of revenue and profit growth supported by secular demand for its infrastructure.
Against this backdrop, I think Micron is a compelling opportunity to buy the dip rather than a value trap. At 7 times forward earnings, I think investors have already priced in considerable downside risk into Micron stock. For this reason, I see Micron as a compelling AI stock to buy and hold.
Adam Spatacco has positions in Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft, and Tesla. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Meta Platforms, Micron Technology, Microsoft, Tesla, and iShares Trust-iShares Semiconductor ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (ISRG - Free Report) is one of the stocks most watched by Zacks.com visitors lately. So, it might be a good idea to review some of the factors that might affect the near-term performance of the stock.
Over the past month, shares of this company have returned +11.6%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. During this period, the Zacks Medical - Instruments industry, which Intuitive Surgical falls in, has gained 4.2%. 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.
Our analysis is essentially based on how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to take the latest business trends into account. When earnings estimates for a company go up, the fair value for its stock goes up as well. And when a stock's fair value is higher than its current market price, investors tend to buy the stock, resulting in its price moving upward. Because of this, empirical studies indicate a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price movements.
Intuitive Surgical is expected to post earnings of $2.97 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +17.4%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed +5%.
For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $11.24 points to a change of +25.9% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed +5.7%.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $12.35 indicates a change of +9.9% from what Intuitive Surgical is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed +3.2%.
With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is a more conclusive indicator of a stock's near-term price performance, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for Intuitive Surgical.
The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Revenue Growth ForecastWhile earnings growth is arguably the most superior indicator of a company's financial health, nothing happens as such if a business isn't able to grow its revenues. After all, it's nearly impossible for a company to increase its earnings for an extended period without increasing its revenues. So, it's important to know a company's potential revenue growth.
In the case of Intuitive Surgical, the consensus sales estimate of $3.23 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +12.7%. The $11.89 billion and $13.26 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +18.2% and +11.5%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryIntuitive Surgical reported revenues of $3.05 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +21.7%. EPS of $3 for the same period compares with $2.4 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.88 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +5.84%. The EPS surprise was +14.94%.
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.
Intuitive Surgical 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 Intuitive Surgical. However, its Zacks Rank #2 does suggest that it may outperform the broader market in the near term.
AMC Entertainment má hodnocení Zacks Rank #2 („k nákupu“); konsenzuální odhad pro letošní rok počítá se ztrátou 0,08 USD na akcii, což je o 91,7 % méně než loni.
AMC Entertainment (AMC - Free Report) is one of the stocks most watched by Zacks.com visitors lately. So, it might be a good idea to review some of the factors that might affect the near-term performance of the stock.
Over the past month, shares of this movie theater operator have returned -1.4%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. During this period, the Zacks Leisure and Recreation Services industry, which AMC Entertainment falls in, has gained 9.6%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
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.
For the current quarter, AMC Entertainment is expected to post earnings of $0.10 per share, indicating a change of +147.6% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -73.3% over the last 30 days.
For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of -$0.08 points to a change of +91.7% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed +71.3%.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $0.06 indicates a change of +175% from what AMC Entertainment is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -278.6%.
With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is a more conclusive indicator of a stock's near-term price performance, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for AMC Entertainment.
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.
In the case of AMC Entertainment, the consensus sales estimate of $1.64 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +26.1%. The $5.76 billion and $5.82 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +18.8% and +1%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryAMC Entertainment reported revenues of $1.6 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +14.2%. EPS of $0.14 for the same period compares with $0 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.51 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +5.78%. The EPS surprise was +1300%.
Over the last four quarters, AMC Entertainment surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time 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.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
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.
AMC Entertainment is graded B on this front, indicating that it is trading at a discount 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 AMC Entertainment. However, its Zacks Rank #2 does suggest that it may outperform the broader market in the near term.
Regeneron ve výsledcích za třetí čtvrtletí poprvé zaúčtuje celý svůj podíl na zisku z Dupixentu poté, co společnosti Sanofi uhradila nevyrovnaný vývojový zůstatek.
Regeneron reports earnings on Oct. 30, and a quiet accounting change tied to its Sanofi partnership may finally reveal what Dupixent is actually worth to the bottom line. Most of Wall Street has barely noticed.
Regeneron (NASDAQ:REGN | REGN Price Prediction) reports third-quarter results on Oct. 30. Regeneron books its full share of Dupixent profits from Sanofi (NASDAQ:SNY) for the first time this quarter. I think that change matters more than the market is giving it credit for.
Dupixent’s Billion-Dollar Profit Drag Is Gone
Last quarter, Regeneron posted non-GAAP EPS of $14.29 against an $8.00 consensus. Revenue rose 16.73% to $4.29 billion, and global Dupixent sales reached $6.00 billion, up 38%.
On the conference call, management said Regeneron has fully returned the Sanofi development balance, which stood at about $3.1 billion when the agreement was amended in 2022. Repayments cut reported collaboration revenue by roughly $930 million in 2025 and $530 million in the first half of this year. Management expects collaboration revenue to step up beginning in the third quarter.
Since then, the two partners announced an expanded alliance worth up to $8 billion. The deal brings four long-acting antibodies and settles prior litigation between the companies. Shares trade near $815, up 42.28% over the past year.
Analysts Already Expect a Sharp Step-Up
Metric
Consensus
Prior-Year Actual
Implied YoY Growth
The quarterly EPS estimate stood at $13.2058 90 days ago, so analysts have partly priced in the Sanofi change.
Collaboration Margins and Eylea HD Will Set the Tone
My first focus is the size of the collaboration step-up. Management expects second-half Dupixent growth to remain strong but moderate against harder comparisons. That means the jump in Regeneron’s share needs to come from the cleaner profit split, and the quarter will reveal the extent of it.
Eylea HD is the second test. U.S. sales hit $596 million last quarter, up 52%, and passed legacy Eylea for the first time. Management guided to sequential HD demand growth in the low to mid-teens, while legacy Eylea demand falls by a similar rate. You should look for any update on the prefilled syringe, which management hopes to get approved before the end of the year.
Margins matter too. Limerick production returned to normal by the end of the second quarter, and Regeneron raised GAAP gross margin guidance to 78%-79%. Launch plans for cemdisiran also deserve attention ahead of its November 2026 FDA target action date. Drug-pricing policy remains a risk that could weigh on top-selling biologics.
First Clean Look at Dupixent’s True Earnings Power
For years, repayment of the development balance hid how much Dupixent actually adds to Regeneron’s earnings. This quarter gives investors the first clear read on that number. If Eylea HD continues outpacing the decline in legacy Eylea, Regeneron enters 2027 with its growth engine running at full strength. That is the setup I’ll be measuring against the upcoming results.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Abbott představil test Oncodetect pro detekci reziduální nádorové DNA během léčby i po ní; sleduje až 5 000 variant specifických pro jednotlivé pacienty.
Powered by whole-genome sequencing and MAESTRO* technology, the next-generation Oncodetect test takes a distinct approach to MRD, tracking up to 5,000 patient-specific variants with a limit of detection below one part per million under high-end inputs 1, 2, 3The next-generation Oncodetect test builds on more than 20 years of trusted leadership in using genomic information to personalize cancer care Modeling estimates more than 3 million U.S. patients with solid tumors could potentially benefit from MRD testing†, /PRNewswire/ -- For many people with cancer, completing treatment can bring a new uncertainty: Is my cancer really gone?
Even after treatment, small amounts of cancer may remain in the body at levels that can be difficult to detect. Molecular residual disease (MRD) testing looks for traces of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in the blood, providing additional information that can help physicians understand recurrence risk, monitor treatment response, and inform decisions about what comes next.4,5
To help address this need, Abbott (NYSE: ABT) today announced the commercial availability of its next-generation Oncodetect® MRD test, a personalized, tumor-informed, whole-genome sequencing test designed to provide molecular insights during and after cancer treatment.1,2
For more than 20 years, the Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score® test has helped physicians use genomic information to personalize breast cancer treatment and is recognized as a standard of care in early-stage breast cancer.6 The next-generation Oncodetect test builds on that foundation, expanding Abbott's ability to provide molecular insights across the cancer care continuum. Abbott's broad cancer diagnostics portfolio spans cancer screening, hereditary cancer testing, genomic profiling, recurrence risk assessment, and MRD testing.
The personalized test uses a sample of each patient's tumor to identify its unique DNA markers, then looks for those same signals in the blood. At the heart of the next-generation Oncodetect test is MAESTRO, a technology developed at the Gerstner Center for Cancer Diagnostics at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and enhanced by Abbott. Combined with whole-genome sequencing, this approach expands variant discovery from up to 200 variants in the first-generation test up to as many as 5,000 patient-specific variants.1,5 MAESTRO technology enriches tumor DNA from blood up to 1,000-fold before sequencing, making cancer signals easier to detect.1,2 Together, these advances achieve a 30-fold improvement in limit of detection to below one part per million.‡,3,7,8 This ultrasensitive performance is designed to identify residual disease when ctDNA levels are especially low, including in early-stage disease and post-treatment settings.9,10
Importantly, MAESTRO enables cost-efficient sequencing, allowing Abbott to offer the whole-genome Oncodetect test to all new patients from day one, rather than reserving the technology for select cases.
"For many people affected by cancer, finishing treatment does not mean the uncertainty ends," said Maimah Karmo, a triple-negative breast cancer survivor and president of the Tigerlily Foundation, a national women's health and oncology patient advocacy organization. "Waiting for the next scan and wondering whether cancer may return can take an emotional toll. New tools that give care teams more information about recurrence risk can support more meaningful conversations about what comes next."
Designed to detect when disease is hardest to find
MRD tests differ in how they identify and track tumor-specific DNA. The next-generation Oncodetect test takes a distinct approach, combining broad whole-genome variant tracking with MAESTRO technology that enriches tumor DNA from blood to create many opportunities to detect ctDNA when very little is present.
Broad variant tracking: Whole-genome sequencing tracks up to 5,000 patient-specific variants, expanding opportunities to detect residual disease at critical clinical decision points.1,2Tumor DNA enrichment: MAESTRO enriches tumor DNA detection up to ~1,000-fold 1,2Ultrasensitive detection: A limit of detection below one part per million‡, while maintaining >99% analytical specificity.3,7,8 This ultrasensitive performance is designed to identify residual disease when ctDNA levels are especially low, including in early-stage cancers, low-shedding cancers such as prostate, lung, kidney, and HR+ breast, and post-treatment settings.9-11
Building the evidence behind next-generation MRD
Clinical studies are evaluating the performance of the next-generation Oncodetect test across multiple solid tumors. In patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer, longitudinal testing detected ctDNA before recurrence in all 14 patients who experienced recurrence, achieving 100% sensitivity.12 In the PARTNER triple-negative breast cancer study, the next-generation test identified 90% of patients who later experienced distant recurrence within five years from a single post-surgery blood draw, a three-fold improvement over the first-generation test.13
New Beta-CORRECT data presented at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) congress showed a 30% absolute improvement in sensitivity for recurrence within two years with the next-generation Oncodetect test, compared with the first-generation test, at a single post-surgical time point in patients with stage II–IV colorectal cancer.14
"We've spent decades getting better at treating cancer once we find it. The next chapter is about understanding what may be happening at the molecular level during and after treatment," said Dr. Rick Baehner, divisional vice president, chief medical officer, precision oncology, Abbott's cancer diagnostics business. "MRD represents an important evolution in precision oncology, helping move cancer care beyond waiting for signs of recurrence toward more informed decisions throughout a patient's care. Our next-generation Oncodetect test reflects that evolution, bringing together whole-genome sequencing and MAESTRO technology to help detect residual disease when the molecular signal is extremely low."
Advancing MRD in cancer care
Abbott's precision oncology tests are fully integrated into leading electronic health record systems, making it easier for physicians to order tests and access results within their existing clinical workflows.
Abbott continues to build clinical evidence for MRD testing through more than 20 ongoing studies evaluating the next-generation Oncodetect test across tumor types, academic collaborations, and real-world research. The company is also working to broaden patient access through payor coverage and international expansion.
Frequently asked questions
Who is MRD testing for and how does it work?
The Oncodetect test is available for patients with solid tumors and must be ordered by a healthcare provider. The personalized, tumor-informed test uses a sample of the patient's tumor, typically from a patient's biopsy or surgery, to identify DNA changes unique to their cancer to create a molecular "fingerprint." A blood sample is then collected and tested for those same tumor-specific signals, with additional blood draws over time providing a molecular view of how disease may be changing.
What is the next-generation Oncodetect test?
The next-generation Oncodetect test is a tumor-informed molecular residual disease (MRD) blood test designed to detect extremely low levels of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) during and after cancer treatment. Powered by whole-genome sequencing and MAESTRO technology, the test has a low limit of detection below one part per million,‡ while maintaining >99% analytical specificity. 1-3,8
How does the next-generation Oncodetect test improve on the first-generation Oncodetect test?
The next-generation Oncodetect test moves from whole-exome to whole-genome sequencing, significantly expanding the number of tumor-specific signals it can track and improving its ability to detect extremely low levels of ctDNA. Key advancements include:
More opportunities to detect residual disease: Tracks up to 5,000 patient-specific variants, compared with up to 200 with the first-generation test.1,5Greater sensitivity: A low limit of detection below one part per million‡, a 30-fold improvement over the first-generation test.3,7,8Deeper detection: MAESTRO technology enriches tumor signals up to ~1,000-fold, helping identify ctDNA when extremely low amounts are present.1Why does detecting ctDNA at low levels matter?
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is genomic material shed by tumors into the bloodstream. ctDNA positivity in patients who have received treatment is strongly prognostic of cancer recurrence, even at very low levels.13 Detecting ctDNA at low levels can help identify patients at higher risk of recurrence and provide information to support treatment and surveillance decisions.5
About the Oncodetect® test
The next-generation Oncodetect test is a whole-genome sequencing-based tumor-informed molecular residual disease (MRD) test designed to provide a personalized approach to detecting and monitoring residual cancer in patients with solid tumors. The test analyzes circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) shed into the bloodstream by tumors, offering insights into changes in ctDNA levels over time. This quantitative assessment of ctDNA (measured as MTM/mL) helps healthcare providers better understand a patient's MRD status and make informed treatment decisions.
The Oncodetect® test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by Genomic Health, Inc. Performance characteristics may not apply in tumor types not included in this test's clinical validation. The test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The test is performed at Genomic Health Inc. The Genomic Health Inc. lab performing this test is certified under CLIA regulations and qualified to perform high-complexity clinical laboratory testing.
About Abbott
Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 122,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.
Connect with us at abbott.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
*MAESTRO = minor allele enriched sequencing through recognition oligonucleotides
MAESTRO was developed by researchers at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. Abbott enhanced the technology for use in the next-generation Oncodetect test.
† Internal estimate for addressable patient populations based on solid tumors amenable to MRD testing.
‡ Under high-end inputs
Tsvetanova B, et al. Association for Molecular Pathology 2025 Annual Meeting Abstracts. J Mol Diagn. 2025;27 Suppl:S113.Gydush G, Nguyen E, Bae JH, et al. Massively parallel enrichment of low-frequency alleles enables duplex sequencing at low depth. Nat Biomed Eng. 2022;6:257–266. doi:10.1038/s41551-022-00855-9.Abbott Cancer Diagnostics. LoD and Precision Results from MRD v2 AV. Internal presentation. August 3, 2026.Kotani, D., Oki, E., Nakamura, Y. et al. Molecular residual disease and efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer. Nat Med 29, 127-134 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-022-02115-4Diergaarde B, Young G, Hall DW, et al. Circulating Tumor DNA as a Marker of Recurrence Risk in Stage III Colorectal Cancer: The α-CORRECT Study. J Surg Oncol. 2025;132(1):175-186. doi:10.1002/jso.27989Exact Sciences. Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score® Test Surpasses 2 Million Patients Worldwide. February 3, 2026.LoBello J, et al. Poster 2025. Exact Sciences Corporation; Madison, WI. Abbott Cancer Diagnostics. Oncodetect v2 Analytical Specificity. Internal presentation. August 25, 2026.Boukouris, A.E., Michaelidou, K., Joosse, S.A. et al. A comprehensive overview of minimal residual disease in the management of early-stage and locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. npj Precis. Onc. 9, 178 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41698-025-00984-9Hashimoto T, Nakamura Y, Oki E, et al. Bridging horizons beyond CIRCULATE-Japan: a new paradigm in molecular residual disease detection via whole genome sequencing-based circulating tumor DNA assay. Int J Clin Oncol. 2024;29(5):495-511. doi:10.1007/s10147-024-02493-4Bettegowda C, Sausen M, Lear y RJ, et al. Detection of circulating tumor DNA in early- and late-stage human malignancies. Sci Transl Med. 2014;6(224):224ra24.Rhoades J, Patel A, Xiong K, Blewett T, Li R, Walsh L, Crnjac A, Ratty JH, Limbo O, Hannigan A, Remland J, Brais L, Jain P, Sridhar S, Gilligan K, Carnes M, Shin KY, Catalano P, Wiener D, Papke DJ Jr, Ramesh A, Fu Y, Garces J, Mazloom A, Costa GL, Hu J, Makrigiorgos GM, Culver BP, Adalsteinsson VA, Enzinger P, Mamon H. Ultrasensitive circulating tumor DNA analysis improves detection of molecular residual disease in locally advanced esophageal cancer. Clin Cancer Res. 2026. In press.Dooley A, et al. Evaluation of whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing tumor-informed circulating tumor DNA MRD assays in patients with early triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) with or without olaparib: A prospective sub-study of the PARTNER trial. Poster presented at: American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting; May 29–June 2, 2026; Chicago, IL. J Clin Oncol. 2026;44(16_suppl):570. DOI:10.1200/JCO.2026.44.16_suppl.570.Hashimoto, T. et al. Validation of the ultrasensitive tumor-informed WGS MAESTRO MRD assay in β-CORRECT. Poster 4426P presented at ESMO 2026; October 23-27, 2026; Madrid, Spain.
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Tržby společnosti Texas Instruments meziročně vzrostly o 27,7 % na 6,06 miliardy USD, přičemž tržby v Číně ve výši 1,39 miliardy USD překonaly očekávání.
Have you assessed how the international operations of Texas Instruments (TXN - Free Report) performed in the quarter ended September 2026? For this chipmaker, possessing an expansive global footprint, parsing the trends of international revenues could be critical to gauge its financial resilience and growth prospects.
In today's increasingly interconnected global economy, a company's ability to tap into international markets can be a pivotal factor in shaping its overall financial health and growth trajectory. For investors, understanding a company's reliance on overseas markets has become increasingly crucial, as it offers insights into the company's sustainability of earnings, ability to tap into diverse economic cycles and overall growth potential.
Being present in foreign markets serves as protection against local economic declines and helps benefit from more rapidly expanding economies. Yet, such expansion also introduces challenges related to currency fluctuations, geopolitical uncertainties and varied market behaviors.
While delving into TXN's performance for the past quarter, we observed some fascinating trends in the revenue from its foreign segments that are commonly modeled and observed by analysts on Wall Street.
The recent quarter saw the company's total revenue reaching $6.06 billion, marking an improvement of 27.7% from the prior-year quarter. Next, we'll examine the breakdown of TXN's revenue from abroad to comprehend the significance of its international presence.
A Look into TXN's International Revenue StreamsOf the total revenue, $104 million came from Rest of World during the last fiscal quarter, accounting for 1.7%. This represented a surprise of -5.62% as analysts had expected the region to contribute $110.19 million to the total revenue. In comparison, the region contributed $98 million, or 1.8%, and $74 million, or 1.6%, to total revenue in the previous and year-ago quarters, respectively.
During the quarter, Europe, Middle East and Africa contributed $1.21 billion in revenue, making up 19.9% of the total revenue. When compared to the consensus estimate of $1.24 billion, this meant a surprise of -2.52%. Looking back, Europe, Middle East and Africa contributed $1.08 billion, or 19.7%, in the previous quarter, and $972 million, or 20.5%, in the same quarter of the previous year.
Japan generated $369 million in revenues for the company in the last quarter, constituting 6.1% of the total. This represented a surprise of -0.87% compared to the $372.23 million projected by Wall Street analysts. Comparatively, in the previous quarter, Japan accounted for $330 million (6%), and in the year-ago quarter, it contributed $313 million (6.6%) to the total revenue.
Rest of Asia accounted for 10.5% of the company's total revenue during the quarter, translating to $635 million. Revenues from this region represented a surprise of -1.4%, with Wall Street analysts collectively expecting $644 million. When compared to the preceding quarter and the same quarter in the previous year, Rest of Asia contributed $606 million (11.1%) and $505 million (10.7%) to the total revenue, respectively.
During the quarter, China contributed $1.39 billion in revenue, making up 23% of the total revenue. When compared to the consensus estimate of $1.28 billion, this meant a surprise of +8.77%. Looking back, China contributed $1.22 billion, or 22.4%, in the previous quarter, and $1.02 billion, or 21.5%, in the same quarter of the previous year.
Projected Revenues in Foreign MarketsIt is projected by analysts on Wall Street that Texas Instruments will post revenues of $6.09 billion for the ongoing fiscal quarter, an increase of 37.7% from the year-ago quarter. The expected contributions from Rest of World, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Japan, Rest of Asia and China to this revenue are 1.6%, 17.8%, 5.3%, 9.3%, and 18.4%, translating into $100.02 million, $1.09 billion, $320.74 million, $564.85 million, and $1.12 billion, respectively.
For the full year, a total revenue of $22.26 billion is expected for the company, reflecting an increase of 25.9% from the year before. The revenues from Rest of World, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Japan, Rest of Asia and China are expected to make up 1.8%, 20.1%, 5.9%, 10.6%, and 20.9% of this total, corresponding to $399.21 million, $4.47 billion, $1.31 billion, $2.37 billion, and $4.65 billion, respectively.
In ConclusionRelying on global markets for revenues presents both prospects and challenges for Texas Instruments. Therefore, scrutinizing its international revenue trends is key to effectively forecasting the company's future outlook.
With the increasing intricacies of global interdependence and geopolitical strife, Wall Street analysts meticulously observe these patterns, especially for companies with an international footprint, to tweak their forecasts of earnings. Importantly, several additional factors, such as a company's domestic market status, also impact these earnings forecasts.
Emphasizing a company's shifting earnings prospects is a key aspect of our approach at Zacks, especially since research has proven its substantial influence on a stock's price in the short run. This correlation is positively aligned, meaning that improved earnings projections tend to boost the stock's price.
The Zacks Rank, our proprietary stock rating tool, comes with an externally validated impressive track record. It effectively utilizes shifts in earnings projections to act as a dependable barometer for forecasting short-term stock price trends.
Texas Instruments currently has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), indicating that it could outperform the broader market in the near term. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Reviewing Texas Instruments' Recent Stock Price TrendsOver the preceding four weeks, the stock's value has appreciated by 2.4%, against a downturn of 1.2% in the Zacks S&P 500 composite. In parallel, the Zacks Computer and Technology sector, which counts Texas Instruments among its entities, has depreciated by 7.7%. Over the past three months, the company's shares have seen an increase of 3.3% versus the S&P 500's 2.5% increase. The sector overall has witnessed an increase of 0.3% over the same period.
In its upcoming report, Anheuser-Busch Inbev (BUD - Free Report) is predicted by Wall Street analysts to post quarterly earnings of $1.14 per share, reflecting an increase of 15.2% compared to the same period last year. Revenues are forecasted to be $16.24 billion, representing a year-over-year increase of 7.3%.
The current level reflects an upward revision of 0.7% in the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter over the past 30 days. This demonstrates how the analysts covering the stock have collectively reappraised their initial projections over this period.
Before a company announces its earnings, it is essential to take into account any changes made to earnings estimates. This is a valuable factor in predicting the potential reactions of investors toward the stock. Empirical research has consistently shown a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While investors typically use consensus earnings and revenue estimates as indicators of quarterly business performance, exploring analysts' projections for specific key metrics can offer valuable insights.
Given this perspective, it's time to examine the average forecasts of specific Anheuser-Busch Inbev metrics that are routinely monitored and predicted by Wall Street analysts.
Analysts expect 'Revenue- Global Export & Holding Companies' to come in at $195.04 million. The estimate indicates a change of +5.4% from the prior-year quarter.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Revenue- Middle Americas' will reach $4.97 billion. The estimate points to a change of +15% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus estimate for 'Revenue- North America' stands at $3.78 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +0.5% from the prior-year quarter.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Revenue- Asia Pacific' of $1.46 billion. The estimate points to a change of -4.6% from the year-ago quarter.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Revenue- EMEA' at $2.63 billion. The estimate points to a change of +4.3% from the year-ago quarter.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Volume in Hectoliters - Middle America' should come in at 38377 thousands of hectoliters. Compared to the current estimate, the company reported 36915 thousands of hectoliters in the same quarter of the previous year.
Analysts predict that the 'Volume in Hectoliters - South America' will reach 38264 thousands of hectoliters. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 36922 thousands of hectoliters in the same quarter last year.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Volume in Hectoliters - EMEA' will likely reach 24166 thousands of hectoliters. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 24149 thousands of hectoliters in the same quarter last year.
Analysts forecast 'AB InBev Worldwide - Total Volume' to reach 142191 thousands of hectoliters. The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of 142319 thousands of hectoliters.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Volume in Hectoliters - Global Export and Holding Companies' reaching 126 thousands of hectoliters. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 136 thousands of hectoliters in the same quarter last year.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Volume in Hectoliters - North America' will reach 21150 thousands of hectoliters. The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of 21896 thousands of hectoliters.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Volume in Hectoliters - Asia Pacific' should arrive at 20108 thousands of hectoliters. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 22301 thousands of hectoliters in the same quarter last year.
View all Key Company Metrics for Anheuser-Busch Inbev here>>>
Anheuser-Busch Inbev shares have witnessed a change of +8% in the past month, in contrast to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% move. With a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), BUD is expected closely follow the overall market performance in the near term. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
The market expects Estee Lauder (EL - Free Report) to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended September 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.
The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on November 2. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis beauty products company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.52 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +62.5%.
Revenues are expected to be $3.65 billion, up 4.8% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 0.08% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts may not always get reflected in the aggregate change.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Estee Lauder?For Estee Lauder, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +3.75%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #2.
So, this combination indicates that Estee Lauder will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?While calculating estimates for a company's future earnings, analysts often consider to what extent it has been able to match past consensus estimates. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Estee Lauder would post earnings of $0.32 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.39, delivering a surprise of +21.88%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates four times.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Estee Lauder appears a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
Stryker by měl za čtvrtletí vykázat zisk na akcii (EPS) ve výši 3,56 USD, což představuje meziroční nárůst o 11,6 %, při tržbách 6,58 miliardy USD (+8,6 %).
The upcoming report from Stryker (SYK - Free Report) is expected to reveal quarterly earnings of $3.56 per share, indicating an increase of 11.6% compared to the year-ago period. Analysts forecast revenues of $6.58 billion, representing an increase of 8.6% year over year.
The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has undergone a downward revision of 0.6% in the past 30 days, bringing it to its present level. This represents how the covering analysts, as a whole, have reassessed their initial estimates during this timeframe.
Prior to a company's earnings announcement, it is crucial to consider revisions to earnings estimates. This serves as a significant indicator for predicting potential investor actions regarding the stock. Empirical research has consistently demonstrated a robust correlation between trends in earnings estimate revision and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While investors typically rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates to gauge how the business may have fared during the quarter, examining analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics often helps gain a deeper insight.
In light of this perspective, let's dive into the average estimates of certain Stryker metrics that are commonly tracked and forecasted by Wall Street analysts.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Net Sales by Geography- Orthopaedics' will likely reach $2.88 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +28% from the prior-year quarter.
Analysts forecast 'Net Sales by Business- MedSurg and Neurotechnology' to reach $3.70 billion. The estimate suggests a change of -2.7% year over year.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Net Sales by Business- MedSurg and Neurotechnology- Medical' reaching $1.13 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +14.4%.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Net Sales by Geography- Orthopaedics- Knees' should come in at $647.78 million. The estimate suggests a change of +3.2% year over year.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Net Sales by Geography- Orthopaedics- Trauma and Extremities' should arrive at $1.09 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +13.1%.
Analysts expect 'Net Sales by Business- MedSurg and Neurotechnology- Instruments' to come in at $1.04 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +36.6% year over year.
Analysts predict that the 'Net Sales by Business- MedSurg and Neurotechnology- Endoscopy' will reach $1.02 billion. The estimate indicates a change of +13.9% from the prior-year quarter.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Net Sales by Geography- Orthopaedics- Hips' at $459.46 million. The estimate suggests a change of +0.5% year over year.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Net Sales by Geography- International' will reach $1.73 billion. The estimate points to a change of +16.4% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Net Sales by Geography- United States' will reach $4.85 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +6.1% year over year.
View all Key Company Metrics for Stryker here>>>
Over the past month, Stryker shares have recorded returns of +12.8% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.2% change. Based on its Zacks Rank #4 (Sell), SYK will likely underperform the overall market in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Key Takeaways CVS Health's Q3 EPS is projected to rise 1.3% to $1.62, while revenues are expected to grow 2.1%.CVS Aetna's margin recovery and Government business strength may help offset elevated medical costs.CVS' $20 billion tech investment drives digital growth, while 340B pressures threaten performance. CVS Health (CVS - Free Report) is scheduled to report third-quarter 2026 results on Nov. 4, before the market opens.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s third-quarter earnings per share (EPS) suggests a 1.3% increase year over year to $1.62. The estimate has remained unchanged in the past 60 days. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for third-quarter revenues currently stands at $105.04 billion, calling for 2.1% growth year over year.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
CVS Health has a solid earnings surprise history. Its bottom line surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average beat being 20.5%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Q3 Earnings Whispers for CVSPer our proven model, a stock with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold), along with a positive Earnings ESP, has a higher chance of beating estimates, which is not the case here.
Earnings ESP: CVS Health has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks Rank #1 stocks here.
What May Have Influenced CVS Health’s Q3 Performance?Health Care BenefitsHealth Care Benefits revenues are likely to have benefited from strength in the Government business in the third quarter of 2026. However, the benefit may have been partly offset by CVS Health’s exit from the individual exchange business in 2026. At the end of the second quarter, medical membership declined by roughly 700,000 members year over year, primarily due to the exit, partly offset by growth in commercial fee-based membership. The trend is expected to have been carried into the third quarter as well. Elevated medical cost utilization trends are likely to have persisted in the quarter across all products, weighing on the overall performance.
Aetna’s continued margin recovery is likely to have supported the segment, building on more than $2 billion in adjusted operating income improvement earlier this year. The Medicare business may have delivered a robust performance, as the company continues to experience pockets of favorability due to strong medical cost management and disciplined pricing. Contributions from the Medicaid and Commercial businesses may also have supported overall revenues.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the Health Care Benefits segment's revenues indicates a 4.6% year-over-year decrease.
Health ServicesSimilar to the past quarters, revenues in this segment are expected to have benefited from pharmacy drug mix and brand inflation. However, continued pharmacy client price improvements may have restricted the full extent of growth. Adjusted operating income in the segment is expected to have benefited from improved purchasing economics and pharmacy drug mix.
CVS has continued to execute its operational plans for the health care delivery business, including slowing the pace of new Oak Street Health clinic openings, investing in technology, bringing in new leadership and pursuing fair and equitable contracts with payer clients. These initiatives may have continued to support the segment’s third-quarter performance. In the second quarter, Health Services revenues grew nearly 23% year over year, primarily driven by Oak Street Health.
Meanwhile, the Caremark pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) faced pressure in its 340B business in a dynamic program environment. The business also experienced a pull-forward of value previously expected in the second half of the year. Excluding this timing benefit, underlying performance was in line with expectations, supported by strength across the broader Caremark business, including higher specialty generic penetration rates, which offset 340B-related pressure. These dynamics may have persisted in the third quarter, weighing on the segment’s revenues.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Health Services’ net revenues implies a 5% increase year over year.
Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness This segment is also expected to have delivered a solid performance in the third quarter of 2026, supported by pharmacy drug mix, brand inflation and higher prescription volume, including contributions from the Rite Aid transaction. However, factors like regulatory-related price reductions on select drugs, the impact of recent generic drug introductions and pharmacy reimbursement pressure are likely to have weighed on performance.
Increased pharmacy prescription volumes on a 30-day equivalent basis are likely to have supported same-store sales growth, although these benefits may have been partly offset by the abovementioned headwinds.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate expects Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness revenues to decline 1.9% year over year.
CVS Investment Consideration: Two Factors to NoteRapid Digital Growth: CVS Health’s $20 billion technology investment over the next decade entered the deployment phase in 2026. In July, the company began the targeted launch of Health100, including Haio, its AI-powered health assistant, with broader access planned later in the year. Aetna also launched the second generation of Claims Assist Manager, an AI-enabled claims advisor that management expects to reduce processing time by more than 20% for complex claims requiring manual review. CVS is also using technology to improve provider connectivity and data sharing in Health Care Delivery, including AI and analytics that can analyze more than one billion pages of clinical records.
Near-Term Earnings Pressure: CVS Health expects its Pharmacy Services business to face continued headwinds in 2027 as market dynamics in the 340B business persist. Caremark is also expected to see membership declines next year on two factors. As the company transitions toward a pricing model grounded in the lowest net cost, it is taking a measured approach to client renewals and the selling season to ensure that existing agreements reflect appropriate underwriting risk and contracting structures. Industry dynamics are already affecting legacy contracts. Product actions and market exit by certain health plan customers are expected to put further pressure on Caremark membership.
CVS: Price Performance & ValuationOver the past six months, CVS shares have rallied 19.3%, trailing its industry’s 21.4% growth but outperforming the 14.6% rise of the broader Medical sector. The stock has also fared better than two key peers, UnitedHealth Group (UNH - Free Report) and The Cigna Group (CI - Free Report) . During the same period, UNH shares have returned 17.9%, while CI has gained 8.7%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
CVS is trading at a forward 12-month Price/Earnings (P/E) of 11.10X, lower than its 11.14X historical median and the industry average of 16.22X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ConclusionCVS Health’s upcoming third-quarter 2026 results are expected to reflect mixed trends across its segments, with continued Aetna margin recovery, improvements in the health care delivery business and strength in the Government business supporting performance. The company’s history of surpassing earnings expectations fuels optimism for another beat. Despite slightly underperforming its industry, CVS has outpaced the broader sector and key peers. Given CVS Health’s favorable valuation and growing digital investments, current shareholders may consider holding their positions. However, prospective investors may want to wait for a more favorable entry point as CVS navigates 340B-related pressure.