Market Signal Briefing

Looking for a stock that has been consistently beating earnings estimates and might be well positioned to keep the streak alive in its next quarterly report? M&T Bank Corporation (MTB - Free Report) , which belongs to the Zacks Banks - Major Regional industry, could be a great candidate to consider.

When looking at the last two reports, this company has recorded a strong streak of surpassing earnings estimates. The company has topped estimates by 8.31%, on average, in the last two quarters.

For the most recent quarter, M&T Bank was expected to post earnings of $4.4 per share, but it reported $4.87 per share instead, representing a surprise of 10.68%. For the previous quarter, the consensus estimate was $4.04 per share, while it actually produced $4.28 per share, a surprise of 5.94%.

Price and EPS Surprise

With this earnings history in mind, recent estimates have been moving higher for M&T Bank. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the company is positive, which is a great sign of an earnings beat, especially when you combine this metric with its nice Zacks Rank.

Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

M&T Bank has an Earnings ESP of +0.54% at the moment, suggesting that analysts have grown bullish on its near-term earnings potential. When you combine this positive Earnings ESP with the stock's Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), it shows that another beat is possibly around the corner. The company's next earnings report is expected to be released on January 16, 2026.

Investors should note, however, that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss, but a negative value does reduce the predictive power of this metric.

Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, but that may not be the sole basis for their stocks moving higher. On the other hand, some stocks may hold their ground even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.

Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Looking for a stock that has been consistently beating earnings estimates and might be well positioned to keep the streak alive in its next quarterly report? MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc. (MCFT - Free Report) , which belongs to the Zacks Leisure and Recreation Products industry, could be a great candidate to consider.

This sport boats maker has an established record of topping earnings estimates, especially when looking at the previous two reports. The company boasts an average surprise for the past two quarters of 98.61%.

For the most recent quarter, MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc. was expected to post earnings of $0.16 per share, but it reported $0.28 per share instead, representing a surprise of 75.00%. For the previous quarter, the consensus estimate was $0.18 per share, while it actually produced $0.4 per share, a surprise of 122.22%.

Price and EPS Surprise

For MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc., estimates have been trending higher, thanks in part to this earnings surprise history. And when you look at the stock's positive Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction), it's a great indicator of a future earnings beat, especially when combined with its solid Zacks Rank.

Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc. has an Earnings ESP of +4.08% at the moment, suggesting that analysts have grown bullish on its near-term earnings potential. When you combine this positive Earnings ESP with the stock's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), it shows that another beat is possibly around the corner.

With the Earnings ESP metric, it's important to note that a negative value reduces its predictive power; however, a negative Earnings ESP does not indicate an earnings miss.

Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, though this is not the only reason why their shares gain. Additionally, some stocks may remain stable even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.

Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Looking for a stock that has been consistently beating earnings estimates and might be well positioned to keep the streak alive in its next quarterly report? Lincoln National (LNC - Free Report) , which belongs to the Zacks Insurance - Life Insurance industry, could be a great candidate to consider.

When looking at the last two reports, this insurance and retirement business has recorded a strong streak of surpassing earnings estimates. The company has topped estimates by 17.21%, on average, in the last two quarters.

For the last reported quarter, Lincoln National came out with earnings of $2.04 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.84 per share, representing a surprise of 10.87%. For the previous quarter, the company was expected to post earnings of $1.91 per share and it actually produced earnings of $2.36 per share, delivering a surprise of 23.56%.

Price and EPS Surprise

For Lincoln National, estimates have been trending higher, thanks in part to this earnings surprise history. And when you look at the stock's positive Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction), it's a great indicator of a future earnings beat, especially when combined with its solid Zacks Rank.

Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

Lincoln National currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.12%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner. We expect the company's next earnings report to be released on February 12, 2026.

Investors should note, however, that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss, but a negative value does reduce the predictive power of this metric.

Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, but that may not be the sole basis for their stocks moving higher. On the other hand, some stocks may hold their ground even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.

Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Looking for a stock that has been consistently beating earnings estimates and might be well positioned to keep the streak alive in its next quarterly report? Corning (GLW - Free Report) , which belongs to the Zacks Communication - Components industry, could be a great candidate to consider.

This specialty glass maker has an established record of topping earnings estimates, especially when looking at the previous two reports. The company boasts an average surprise for the past two quarters of 3.39%.

For the most recent quarter, Corning was expected to post earnings of $0.66 per share, but it reported $0.67 per share instead, representing a surprise of 1.52%. For the previous quarter, the consensus estimate was $0.57 per share, while it actually produced $0.6 per share, a surprise of 5.26%.

Price and EPS Surprise

Thanks in part to this history, there has been a favorable change in earnings estimates for Corning lately. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the stock is positive, which is a great indicator of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with its solid Zacks Rank.

Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

Corning currently has an Earnings ESP of +1.72%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner. We expect the company's next earnings report to be released on January 28, 2026.

With the Earnings ESP metric, it's important to note that a negative value reduces its predictive power; however, a negative Earnings ESP does not indicate an earnings miss.

Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, though this is not the only reason why their shares gain. Additionally, some stocks may remain stable even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.

Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Have you been searching for a stock that might be well-positioned to maintain its earnings-beat streak in its upcoming report? It is worth considering Capital One (COF - Free Report) , which belongs to the Zacks Financial - Consumer Loans industry.

This credit card issuer and bank has an established record of topping earnings estimates, especially when looking at the previous two reports. The company boasts an average surprise for the past two quarters of 42.37%.

For the most recent quarter, Capital One was expected to post earnings of $4.2 per share, but it reported $5.95 per share instead, representing a surprise of 41.67%. For the previous quarter, the consensus estimate was $3.83 per share, while it actually produced $5.48 per share, a surprise of 43.08%.

Price and EPS Surprise

With this earnings history in mind, recent estimates have been moving higher for Capital One. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the company is positive, which is a great sign of an earnings beat, especially when you combine this metric with its nice Zacks Rank.

Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

Capital One has an Earnings ESP of +2.07% at the moment, suggesting that analysts have grown bullish on its near-term earnings potential. When you combine this positive Earnings ESP with the stock's Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), it shows that another beat is possibly around the corner. The company's next earnings report is expected to be released on January 22, 2026.

When the Earnings ESP comes up negative, investors should note that this will reduce the predictive power of the metric. But, a negative value is not indicative of a stock's earnings miss.

Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, though this is not the only reason why their shares gain. Additionally, some stocks may remain stable even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.

Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

If you are looking for a stock that has a solid history of beating earnings estimates and is in a good position to maintain the trend in its next quarterly report, you should consider T. Rowe Price (TROW - Free Report) . This company, which is in the Zacks Financial - Investment Management industry, shows potential for another earnings beat.

When looking at the last two reports, this financial services firm has recorded a strong streak of surpassing earnings estimates. The company has topped estimates by 7.19%, on average, in the last two quarters.

For the last reported quarter, T. Rowe came out with earnings of $2.81 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.55 per share, representing a surprise of 10.20%. For the previous quarter, the company was expected to post earnings of $2.15 per share and it actually produced earnings of $2.24 per share, delivering a surprise of 4.19%.

Price and EPS Surprise

With this earnings history in mind, recent estimates have been moving higher for T. Rowe. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the company is positive, which is a great sign of an earnings beat, especially when you combine this metric with its nice Zacks Rank.

Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

T. Rowe has an Earnings ESP of +0.62% at the moment, suggesting that analysts have grown bullish on its near-term earnings potential. When you combine this positive Earnings ESP with the stock's Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), it shows that another beat is possibly around the corner. The company's next earnings report is expected to be released on February 4, 2026.

When the Earnings ESP comes up negative, investors should note that this will reduce the predictive power of the metric. But, a negative value is not indicative of a stock's earnings miss.

Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, but that may not be the sole basis for their stocks moving higher. On the other hand, some stocks may hold their ground even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.

Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Key Takeaways CLOV delivered 53% YoY growth in Medicare Advantage PPO membership during the 2026 AEP.CLOV retained over 95% of members by keeping plan benefits stable and expanding presence across core markets.CLOV expects GAAP net income profitability in 2026, supported by retention, CA use and SG&A efficiency. Clover Health Investments(CLOV - Free Report) has reported strong results from the 2026 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), delivering 53% year-over-year growth in Medicare Advantage PPO membership. After a strong enrollment period, the company is starting 2026 with total membership increasing to 153,000, reflecting growth in core markets where Clover Health has broad Clover Assistant (CA) coverage and an integrated Home Care model. As a result, Clover Health believes it will achieve full-year GAAP net income profitability in 2026.

Per management, the company is starting 2026 in a strong financial position to show the robustness of Clover Health’s model, with strong growth in new members, high retention of existing members, improving performance across member groups and continued benefits from the Clover Assistant. This disciplined growth approach, coupled with strong retention, positions the company to achieve GAAP net income profitability for the first time in 2026.

CLOV Stock’s Trend Following the NewsFollowing the announcement, shares of Clover Health rallied 10.6% at yesterday’s closing. Over the past six months, the stock has lost 7% compared with the industry’s 16.6% decline, However, the S&P 500 has risen 13.7% during the same time frame.

In the long run, achieving full-year GAAP net income profitability would mark an important inflection point for Clover Health Investments. Membership growth and retention, improved cohort performance, operating leverage from SG&A efficiency and the scaling impact of Clover Assistant could drive margins and earnings. These dynamics position Clover Health to demonstrate the scalability of its technology-enabled MA model while laying the foundation for sustainable growth beyond.

CLOV currently has a market capitalization of $1.45 billion.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

More on the AEP Performance & Profitability OutlookClover Health expects multiple tailwinds to support profitability, including improvement in the performance of new members and continued strong results from returning members, alongside sustained membership growth. This outlook is supported by higher payments from its 4.0-star-rated PPO plans in 2026, a favorable CMS rate update and increased Part D subsidies, strong member retention, expanded use of the Clover Assistant by PCP and improved operating efficiency as SG&A costs decline with scale.

By maintaining stable plan benefits year over year, Clover Health retained more than 95% of its members during the enrollment period and built a stronger presence in local communities. This shows the durability of the company’s membership base and its plans to continue to offer strong value to members. CLOV saw intentional growth in its PPO plans, with new members switching from other Medicare Advantage plans within Clover’s core markets.

Clover Health’s 2026 AEP results underscore the effectiveness of its focused growth strategy. More than 97% of its Medicare Advantage members are enrolled in its main PPO plan. For the second consecutive year, this plan is ranked the number one PPO plan in the country based on HEDIS quality measures. Clover Health’s AI-enabled, industry-leading quality highlights the strong quality of care it provides and the solid financial performance of its model.

Industry Prospects Favoring MarketGoing by data provided by Precedence Research, the individual health insurance market is valued at $150.05 billion in 2025 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 6.43% through 2035. Factors like the changing landscape of healthcare and the need for protection against medical expenses, the integration of technology to enhance customer experiences through digital platforms, telehealth services and data-driven insights improving service efficiency and customer satisfaction influence market growth.

Other NewsCounterpart Health, a subsidiary of Clover Health, reported strong 2025 results, showing how its AI-powered Counterpart Assistant (CA) improves care quality and lowers costs. Adoption of the platform grew rapidly, with live third-party clinicians increasing by more than 450% year over year across multiple states.

Data showed that returning Clover members whose primary care physicians (PCPs) use CA achieved about a 1,500 basis point improvement in medical cost ratios compared to those without CA. Counterpart’s technology also supported the nation’s top-ranked PPO Medicare Advantage HEDIS quality scores for the second consecutive year.

Clinical studies released in 2025 showed earlier diagnosis of chronic diseases like COPD, fewer hospitalizations and readmissions for conditions such as heart failure and COPD and better outcomes in underserved communities. In addition, Counterpart expanded its platform with ambient scribing, natural-language search, proactive visit summaries and enterprise-level tools, positioning it as a full clinical operating system for value-based care.

CLOV’s Zacks Rank & Stocks to ConsiderCurrently, CLOV carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Some better-ranked stocks from the broader medical space are AtriCure (ATRC - Free Report) , Phibro Animal Health (PAHC - Free Report) and Omnicell (OMCL - Free Report) .

AtriCure, currently flaunting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), reported a third-quarter 2025 adjusted loss per share of 1 cent, 90.9% narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Revenues of $134.3 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.1%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

ATRC has an estimated earnings growth rate of 64.2% for 2025 compared with the industry’s 12.2% rise. The company beat earnings estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 67.06%.

Phibro Animal Health, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present, reported third-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 73 cents, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 23.7%. Revenues of $363.9 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.6%.

PAHC has an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 12.8% compared with the industry’s 13.9% rise. The company beat earnings estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 20.77%.

Omnicell, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 at present, reported third-quarter 2025 adjusted EPS of 51 cents, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 41.7%. Revenues of $311 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 5.6%.

OMCL has an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 9.4% compared with the industry’s 27.9% rise. The company beat earnings estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 38.65%.

Talen Energy Corporation (TLN) M&A Call January 15, 2026 8:30 AM EST

Company Participants

Sergio Castro - Vice President & Treasurer
Mark McFarland - CEO & Director
Terry Nutt - President
Cole Muller - Chief Financial Officer
Christopher Morice - Chief Commercial Officer

Conference Call Participants

Shahriar Pourreza - Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Research Division
Michael Sullivan - Wolfe Research, LLC
Agnieszka Storozynski - Seaport Research Partners
Alexandre Zimmermann - Morgan Stanley, Research Division
Julien Dumoulin-Smith - Jefferies LLC, Research Division
Craig Shere - Tuohy Brothers Investment Research, Inc.
Ross Fowler - BofA Securities, Research Division

Presentation

Operator

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by. Welcome to Talen Energy Business Update Call. [Operator Instructions] Please be advised that today's conference is being recorded. I would like now to turn the conference over to Sergio Castro, Vice President and Treasurer. Please go ahead.

Sergio Castro
Vice President & Treasurer

Thank you, Michelle. Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining Talen's conference call. Participating on today's call are Chief Executive Officer, Mac McFarland; President, Terry Nutt; and Chief Financial Officer, Cole Muller. We issued a press release this morning, along with the presentation, all of which can be found in the Investor Relations section of Talen's website, talenenergy.com, which provides additional information and which we will refer to on this call. Today, we are making some forward-looking statements based on current expectations and assumptions. Actual results could differ due to risk factors and other considerations described in our financial disclosures and other SEC filings.

With that, I will now turn the call over to Matt.

Mark McFarland
CEO & Director

Great. Thanks, Sergio. Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us on short notice. 2025 was an exciting time in the IPP space, and Talen was no exception. We expanded our nuclear relationship with Amazon to 2 gigawatts. FERC approved the RMR settlement for Brandon Shores

Key Takeaways UnitedHealth launched a six-month Rural Payment Acceleration Pilot for rural hospitals in select states.UNH plans to cut MA reimbursement timelines by about 50%, reducing payment cycles to under 15 days.UNH says faster MA payments can stabilize cash flow and reduce borrowing risks for rural providers. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH - Free Report) recently launched the Rural Payment Acceleration Pilot, a targeted initiative aimed at easing persistent cash-flow pressures faced by independent rural hospitals. This six-month program aims to speed up Medicare Advantage (MA) reimbursement timelines by about 50%, cutting down the average payment cycles from less than 30 days to under 15 days in select markets across Oklahoma, Idaho, Minnesota and Missouri.

For rural hospitals that often find themselves with tight budgets, the timing of payments can be just as important as the total amount they receive. Operating expenses such as staffing, medical supplies and facility maintenance are incurred upfront, while reimbursements arrive later. By speeding up the payment process, UNH is tackling a significant challenge that has long affected the cash flow of rural healthcare providers.

The initiative also showcases a wider strategic approach. By speeding up payments, it can help stabilize cash flow, reduce reliance on short-term borrowing and lower the risk of service disruptions, particularly important in communities where hospital closures can significantly limit access to care.

The pilot positions payment speed as a strategic lever rather than an administrative detail. If the program delivers measurable improvements in financial stability and continuity of care, faster MA payments might turn into a model that can be scaled up. In that case, UNH’s initiative may signal a more sustainable, payer-led approach to strengthening rural health systems.

How Are Competitors Faring?Some of UNH’s major competitors in the healthcare service provider space are Elevance Health, Inc. (ELV - Free Report) and Humana Inc. (HUM - Free Report) .

Elevance Health continues to expand its Medicare Advantage presence while emphasizing value-based care and digital care coordination through its Carelon platform. ELV focuses on whole-health models and localized networks that support performance in complex and underserved markets, including rural geographies.

To support continued growth in its Medicare Advantage business and expand healthcare services capabilities, Humana is prioritizing internal efficiency initiatives. HUM is focusing on cost discipline, productivity improvements and extracting greater returns from prior investments.

UnitedHealth’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of UNH have risen 14.5% over the past six months compared with the industry’s rise of 10.1%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, UnitedHealth trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 18.90, above the industry average of 15.74. UNH carries a Value Score of A.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UnitedHealth’s 2025 earnings is pegged at $16.30 per share, implying a 41.1% drop from the year-ago period.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

– Norwegian Aura™ Now Available to Book with First Voyages Setting Sail in May 2027 –

– NCL's Next Cutting-Edge Ship Will Homeport in Miami, Offering Seven-Day Caribbean Sailings with Calls to Great Stirrup Cay, the Brand's Newly Enhanced Private Island in the Bahamas –

– Ocean Heights™, an Open-Air Activities Complex, to Debut as the Hallmark Onboard Attraction Curated for Multi-Generational Families with the Most Slides of any NCL Ship, Thrilling Ropes Course, Overhanging Cabanas and More –

– Additional images available for media download here –

, /PRNewswire/ -- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today unveiled and opened for sale Norwegian Aura™, the longest and largest vessel in its fleet, which will homeport in Miami beginning in June 2027 following her debut in Europe in late May 2027.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/norwegian_cruise_line/9361351-en-norwegian-cruise-lines-largest-most-illuminating-ship-norwegian-aura 

Norwegian Aura™ Norwegian Cruise Line

Featuring a design 10% larger than its predecessors, Norwegian Aqua® and Norwegian Luna™, Norwegian Aura™ sets a new standard in size and scale for the NCL fleet and was designed to deliver curated experiences for families and guests of all ages.

Norwegian Aura™ features signature hull art, designed by international artist Rosie Woods, that was inspired by celestial light and bioluminescent seas to create a modern interpretation of how light interacts with water.

Norwegian Aura™ will boast more slides than any NCL ship with its premier attraction - the all-new Ocean Heights™. The open-air activity complex is an innovative, multi-generational hub of entertainment featuring a variety of slides, a thrilling 82-foot Aura Ropes Course, a 25-foot Rock Climbing Wall and more.

Ocean Heights™, Norwegian Aura’s all-new multi-generational open-air activity complex will feature an outdoor bar perfect for guests to enjoy their favorite beverages.

Norwegian Aura’s Ocean Heights™ will feature an amusement park-style outdoor area, the Aura Midway, where friends and families will enjoy a variety of carnival games.

Guests will soak up the sun on board Norwegian Aura™, featuring the largest pool deck in the NCL fleet with expansive seating and lounging space as well as three infinity hot tubs.

Norwegian Aura™ will offer an expanded Vibe Beach Club, the signature NCL adults-only outdoor lounge area, making it the largest in NCL’s fleet.

Norwegian Aura’s all new Ocean Heights™ is a multi-level, open-air environment designed to transition seamlessly from fun by day to a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere at night, creating a lively space for the whole family.

Norwegian Aura’s inaugural season will sail seven-day Caribbean voyages with visits to Great Stirrup Cay, the Company’s private island in the Bahamas, which recently debuted a new pier as well as the Great Life Lagoon - a 1.4 acre pool area complete with swim-up bars, lounge seating and a kid’s splash zone.

The all-new Norwegian Aura™ features 36 suites, including the Aft-Facing Suite with Large Balcony, accommodating up to four guests - perfect for family getaways.

Norwegian Aura™ will boast 159 suites within the keycard access-only complex, The Haven by Norwegian™, including the Haven Three-Bedroom Duplex Suite with Large Balcony. Amenities include a 24-hour butler and concierge service, priority embarkation and disembarkation and much more.

The all-new Norwegian Aura™ will feature an array of balcony staterooms that will accommodate up to two and four guests with select connecting rooms to allow families to travel together in comfort and ease. Setting a new standard in size and scale for NCL's fleet, Norwegian Aura will be almost 1,130 feet long, 169,000 gross tons and will accommodate 3,840 guests at double occupancy. Norwegian Aura will be 10% larger than her predecessors Norwegian Aqua® and Norwegian Luna™ and has been thoughtfully designed to deliver curated, family-focused experiences, complemented with reimagined guest favorites. At the center of the action is the all-new Ocean Heights, an open-air activities complex that shifts from fun by day to a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere at night, creating a lively space for the whole family.

Offering seven-day cruises to the Caribbean, each of Norwegian Aura's voyages in the region will visit either Harvest Caye, NCL's resort-style destination in Belize, or Great Stirrup Cay, the Company's private island in the Bahamas, which recently received several enhancements.  As of late 2025, all-new guest experiences opened on Great Stirrup Cay, including the Great Life Lagoon – a sprawling pool area with swim-up bars, premium loungers and a dedicated kids' splash area – as well as Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only area with a private bar and premium lounge seating. Later in 2026, ahead of Norwegian Aura's 2027 sailings, the island will debut the nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark with 19 waterslides, industry-first cliffside jumps and a dynamic river, as well as new adventure excursions.

"We are proud to introduce the newest, and largest, addition to our fleet, Norwegian Aura," said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. "Norwegian Aura represents the evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line and the celebration of bringing together families, friends and travelers from around the world. With brilliance and connection at her core, the ship was created to give all guests the freedom to vacation their very own way – offering the chance to exhale, connect and effortlessly escape into the moment. We look forward to this next milestone and can't wait for guests to experience all that Norwegian Aura has to offer."

Norwegian Aura is currently being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri with interior designs across the ship created by world-class architects such as AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design and Studio Dado.

Norwegian Aura's stand-out features and itineraries include:

OCEAN HEIGHTS: MULTI-GENERATIONAL FUN AND ADVENTURE
Spanning decks 18 to 21, the first-in-the-fleet Ocean Heights will be the ultimate hub for fun, action and relaxation for the whole family. The sprawling activity zone will combine brand-new attractions for NCL with reimagined favorites, transforming from day to night using immersive lighting and LED projections.

Norwegian Aura will boast the most slides of any NCL ship, with five located in the sweeping open-air complex, Ocean Heights. Eclipse Racers are the Brand's first dueling mat racer waterslides, stretching over 400 feet for an exciting head-to-head competition for illuminating wet-and-wild fun in tubular slides. For more thrills, guests can head over to the Aura Free Fall, a drop-in body waterslide where the floor opens up below and plunges guests down 250 feet of exhilarating twists and turns. The Wave is a lotus waterslide, a pendulum-style raft attraction that accommodates groups of up to four guests to ride together through 300 feet of pure fun. Lastly, the returning guest favorite, The Drop, is the Prima Class signature dry slide that rushes guests down 10 decks – from deck 18 to eight.

Designed for adventure seekers, Ocean Heights will also feature an 82-foot Aura Ropes Course complete with exhilarating challenges paired with breathtaking top-deck ocean views. Additional experiences include a 25-foot Rock Climbing Wall; Aura Midway, an amusement park-style outdoor area where guests will enjoy a variety of carnival-like games; a nine-hole mini golf course; NCL's first-ever overhanging private cabanas overlooking Vibe Beach Club; and a bar for guests to sip on their favorite beverages.

OCEAN BOULEVARD: CATERS TO ALL – FROM HOT TUBS TO KID AND TEEN HUBS
Located on deck eight, Ocean Boulevard is the signature Prima Class outdoor promenade that wraps around the entirety of the ship and provides guests opportunities to relax while enjoying endless water views. Aboard Norwegian Aura, the area has been extended by 11% compared to Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, offering additional space, more seating, as well as debuting activities and amenities, including new hot tubs and a brand-new bar. An expanded Infinity Beach will provide the ultimate hub for relaxation with luxe day beds and wading pools, perfect for afternoon siestas.  

Additionally, Ocean Boulevard will feature dedicated activities for children and teenagers flanked on either side of the forward end of the ship. Located port side, Adventure Alley is designed for kids aged six to 10 and offers stimulating crawl spaces and twisting tunnels in an imaginative seascape setting overlooking the ocean; while starboard side, the Teen Hangout provides an exclusive retreat for teenagers to relax, socialize and capture memories at the striking wave and surf photo wall. Lastly, for younger guests aged two to six, Little Explorer's Cove playground is situated at the bow and features a playhouse with two slides and more.

NEXT-LEVEL POOLSIDE AND SUNDECK EXPERIENCES
Guests aboard Norwegian Aura will enjoy more ways than ever to relax, refresh, and soak up the sun in the ship's expanded and enhanced spaces. Over 20% larger than Norwegian Aqua's and Norwegian Luna's pool decks, that of Norwegian Aura's will be the largest in the NCL fleet with more seating capacity, an additional infinity hot tub, a larger LED entertainment screen and extra open lounge areas to ensure every guest enjoys the heart of the ship in comfort.

The adventure continues on the top decks with Norwegian Aura's Kids' Aqua Park, with splash pad and interactive water features within proximity to Ocean Heights on deck 18. Nearby are two family-fun waterslides – the Party Slide, a wide and shallow slide perfect for families and friends to enjoy together, and the Infinity Loop, a figure-eight slide that wraps around the Party Slide. On deck 19, guests will enjoy outdoor lawn games and seating at Horizon Park.

Vibe Beach Club, NCL's exclusive adults-only retreat, will be 15% larger than those found aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, providing increased seating, infinity hot tubs, expanded decompressing areas and a waterfall feature. With additional sun loungers, daybeds and a bar as its focal point, Vibe Beach Club will provide the ultimate setting for relaxation at sea.

THE HAVEN BY NORWEGIAN® OFFERS ELEVATED EXCELLENCE AT SEA
Norwegian Aura will boast 1,976 staterooms ranging from studios to suites, of which 159 make up the keycard access-only complex, The Haven by Norwegian. The luxury offering aboard Norwegian Aura will include 30% more suites than previous Prima Class ships and the most in the fleet. Designed by renowned Italian designer Piero Lissoni, The Haven suites blend sophisticated design with sweeping sea views and are crafted for optimal privacy and convenience with exclusive private elevator access. The Haven complex features a dedicated sundeck complete with a panoramic infinity pool, two hot tubs and an outdoor sauna and cold room. It also offers the dedicated The Haven bar and lounge, and The Haven Restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Notably, Studio DADO, longtime partners of Norwegian Cruise Line, designed the private lounge, restaurant and outdoor deck to emulate a tranquil oasis that immerses guests into the world's natural beauty with earth tones, a lush canopy of trees and delicate finishes.

Beyond luxury accommodations and spaces, guests staying in The Haven will enjoy unmatched service and amenities, including 24-hour butler and concierge service, priority embarkation and disembarkation, exclusive invitations to onboard events, priority onboard reservations and much more.

BRILLIANTLY DESIGNED HULL ART
Signature to the NCL fleet, Norwegian Aura will feature a standout hull art design created by international artist Rosie Woods, known for her large-scale murals and collaborations with global brands. Woods' work is defined by flowing, light-driven forms that explore movement, energy and illumination. Her design for the vessel draws inspiration from celestial light and bioluminescent seas, creating a modern interpretation of how light interacts with water.

Reflecting on her work for Norwegian Aura, Rosie Woods said, "I'm thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, who has been known for showcasing beautiful, cutting-edge hull art designs. I'm so excited to see my large-scale piece of artwork come to life, sail across the seas and illuminate day and night."

FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN TO MIAMI
Prior to homeporting in Miami for her inaugural season in June 2027, Norwegian Aura will sail a seven-day Mediterranean voyage from Trieste, Italy to Barcelona, Spain on May 21, 2027 with calls to Valletta, Malta; as well as Salerno and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Following her 14-day transatlantic voyage, she will commence her season of Caribbean cruises from Miami. From June 2027 through October 2027, Norwegian Aura will sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean voyages with calls to quintessential island destinations, including Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and the Brand's newly enhanced private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. In winter 2027/28, Norwegian Aura will offer seven-day Western Caribbean voyages taking guests to lush, tropical destinations like Roatan (Islas de la Bahia), Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; as well as Harvest Caye, NCL's resort-style private destination off the Belizean coast.

For images and b-roll of Norwegian Aura, visit the press kit here.

For more information about the Company's award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

About Norwegian Cruise Line
As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line® has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 59 years. Its tagline, "It's Different Out Here," reflects the emotional connection guests experience aboard and pays tribute to the company's history of pioneering the cruise experience. Most notably, NCL revolutionized the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, the company continues to deliver curated, effortless experiences that cater to every type of traveler – from seasoned cruisers to families of every size. With award-winning entertainment, globally inspired dining and thoughtfully designed accommodations, including solo staterooms, Club Balcony Suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept, NCL ensures every guest enjoys a seamless and personalized journey that allows them to enjoy the moment and connect with those who matter most. To further deliver guests with more value, the company's signature Free at Sea™ package provides added benefits and inclusions such as unlimited open bar; specialty dining credits; high-speed Wi-Fi; shore excursions credits; and with select sailings guests can enjoy free airfare as well as third and fourth guests sail free (terms and conditions apply). NCL guests sailing to the Caribbean can also enjoy exclusive experiences at Harvest Caye, the company's resort destination in Belize, along with new and enhanced experiences at Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's expanded private island in the Bahamas. NCL sails to nearly 350 of the world's most desirable destinations with its fleet of 20 contemporary ships.

For additional nformation or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com. For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. To learn more, visit www.nclhltd.com.

SOURCE Norwegian Cruise Line

Key Takeaways RIO's Pilbara iron ore production rose to 84.1M tons despite earlier weather disruptions.Gudai-Darri achieved record quarterly output at 51M tpa, boosting shipments and efficiency.Major projects like Rhodes Ridge and Simandou advance, supporting RIO's long-term growth. Rio Tinto Group (RIO - Free Report) reported solid growth in iron ore production in the third quarter of 2025. During the quarter, Pilbara iron ore shipments reached 84.3 million tons, increasing 6% from the previous quarter. The company’s total Pilbara iron ore production stood at 84.1 million tons, reflecting robust output despite weather-related disruptions earlier in the year.

The robust performance was primarily supported by Rio Tinto’s Pilbara operations in Western Australia. The Gudai-Darri project achieved its highest-ever quarterly production in the third quarter, operating at a run rate of 51 million tons per annum, while shipments rose on a sequential basis despite planned maintenance and infrastructure works. The successful rollout of the new Pilbara Blend product strategy also contributed to improved product mix, with lower SP10 volumes as planned.

Also, several major growth projects of the company are progressing. In December 2025, RIO’s Rhodes Ridge joint venture approved a $191 million feasibility study to develop one of the world’s major undeveloped iron ore deposits in Western Australia, aiming for an initial annual production of 40-50 million tons. The study is expected to conclude in 2029. In October 2025, at the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea, the first ore was loaded and transported, marking the start of commissioning across the mine, rail and port infrastructure.

The strong quarterly performance, supported by record output at the Gudai-Darri facility and improved system efficiency across the Pilbara, highlights Rio Tinto’s operational strength in iron ore. Major growth projects, such as Rhodes Ridge and Simandou, are advancing steadily, positioning the company well for long-term growth.

Snapshot of RIO’s PeersAmong its major peers, Vale S.A.’s (VALE - Free Report) Iron Solutions segment generated net operating revenues of around $8.42 billion in the third quarter of 2025, which marked 5.7% growth from last year’s comparable quarter. Vale’s total iron ore shipments were up 5% from the year-ago quarter. Vale’s average realized iron ore fines price increased 4% year over year to $94.40 per ton.

Its other peer, BHP Group Limited (BHP - Free Report) , produced a record 263 Mt of iron ore in fiscal 2025. This came within BHP Group’s guidance of 255-265.5 Mt and was up 1% year over year. Production at BHP Group’s Western Australia Iron Ore was a record of 257 Mt (290 Mt on a 100% basis).

RIO's Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Rio Tinto have gained 43.8% in the past six months compared with the industry’s growth of 27.3%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, RIO is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 12.13X, below the industry’s average of 17.56X. Rio Tinto carries a Value Score of B.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RIO’s 2026 earnings has been on the rise over the past 60 days.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Rio Tinto currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Key Takeaways AG trades at a forward P/E far above the silver mining industry and peers, raising valuation concerns.First Majestic faces rising costs, higher debt, and ongoing taxation and regulatory challenges in Mexico.AG posted record Q3 production and cash flow, supported by higher silver output and stronger prices. The precious metals mining First Majestic Silver Corp. (AG - Free Report) is currently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 55.84X compared with the Zacks Mining - Silver industry’s 20.03X. With a Value Score of F, AG stock may not present a compelling value proposition at these levels.

The current valuation is above its five-year median of 29.91X. In comparison with the AG’s valuation, its peers Hecla Mining Company (HL - Free Report) and Pan American Silver Corp. (PAAS - Free Report) are trading at 41.03X and 15.25X, respectively. The company’s premium valuation compared with the broader industry and peers raises concerns.

Valuation Remains an Overhang for First Majestic
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

AG Stock’s Price PerformanceIn the past three months, First Majestic stock has gained 29.4% compared with the industry’s 36.1% growth. In comparison, the S&P 500 has returned 6.4% in the same period. The company has also underperformed its key rivals like Hecla Mining and Pan American Silver. Over the same time frame, Hecla Mining and Pan American Silver have returned 56.2% and 33.5%, respectively.

AG’s 3-Month Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Ongoing Challenges Faced by AGFirst Majestic has been dealing with the adverse impacts of the high cost of sales and operating expenses. In the first nine months of 2025, its cost of sales surged 52.8% year over year to $390 million, while general and administrative expenses increased 27.3% to $35.9 million. The company has been incurring high costs and expenses related to an increase in production, labor, and other selling costs, along with a rise in integration costs associated with its acquisitions, such as Gatos Silver.

Also, the company has been grappling with long-running issues in Mexico, primarily related to a major tax conflict with the Mexican government. The company currently owns     four operating mines in the country that includes the likes of Santa    Elena Silver/Gold mine, Los Gatos Silver mine, San Dimas Silver/Gold mine, and La Encantada Silver mine. However, the ongoing legal and regulatory issues present a financial and operational risk to these sites despite their healthy production performances.

Rise in long-term debt remains a concern for AG. Exiting the third quarter of 2025, the company’s overall consolidated indebtedness was $216.8 million. The figure reflects an increase of 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. Although the current liquidity level safeguards the company from immediate financial risks, a further rise in debt might affect its margins and profitability going forward.

First Majestic also operates in the highly competitive silver and gold markets, comprising well-recognised precious metals mining companies. One of its peers, Hecla Mining, is a leading low-cost U.S. silver producer with operating mines in Alaska and Idaho, and is a growing gold producer with an operating mine in Quebec, Canada. It’s another peer, Pan American Silver, which is a well-known explorer, developer, and operator of silver, gold, zinc, lead, and copper mines across Canada, Mexico, and several countries in South America.

What’s Aiding First Majestic?AG’s total production reached 7.7 million silver-equivalent (AgEq) ounces in third-quarter 2025. The figure includes a record 3.9 million silver ounces and 35,681 gold ounces. It also includes 13.9 million pounds of zinc and 7.7 million pounds of lead. The AgEq ounces produced marked a solid 39% year-over-year increase, attributed to a 96% surge in silver production.

First Majestic achieved a record quarterly free cash flow in the third quarter. The company’s cash flow surged 67.5% year over year to $98.8 million, with liquidity reaching $682 million. AG reported a record working capital of $542.4 million.

Also, silver prices have increased significantly over the past year, supported by strong safe-haven demand, geopolitical tensions and escalating trade conflicts. Silver has benefited from resilient industrial demand and mounting supply deficits. Demand for solar energy, electronics and electrification now accounts for more than half of global silver demand.

Earnings Estimate RevisionsThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for First Majestic’s 2025 earnings has been stable at 25 cents per share over the past 60 days. The consensus mark for 2026 earnings decreased 2.9% to 34 cents per share.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Final Take on AGFirst Majestic’s market leadership position, diversified assets and strong liquidity position provide it with a competitive advantage to leverage the long-term demand prospects in silver and gold markets. However, AG has been facing several challenges, including taxation issues in Mexico and rising operational expenses.

The downward estimate revision activity in earnings and expensive valuation warrants a cautious approach for existing investors. Potential investors should consider waiting for clearer signs of recovery before investing in this Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) stock.

You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Key Takeaways WTW targets margin improvement, cash flow strength and sustainable revenue growth across core areas. Strong performance in Health, Wealth & Career and Risk & Broking continues to lift WTW's top line. Strategic acquisitions and a solid balance sheet support WTW's capital deployment and expansion. Shares of Willis Towers Watson Public Limited Company (WTW - Free Report) have gained 4.7% in the past year, outperforming its industry’s decline of 24.6%.

The insurer has a market capitalization of $32.01 billion. The average volume of shares traded in the last three months was 0.6 million.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Willis Towers’ bottom line surpassed earnings estimates in three of the last four quarters and missed in one, the average being 2.39%.

WTW Shares are AffordableWTW shares are trading at a discount compared with the Zacks Brokerage Insurance industry. Its forward price-to-earnings multiple of 16.96X is lower than the industry average of 17.64X, the Finance sector’s 17.22X and the Zacks S&P 500 Composite’s 23.51X.

Shares of other insurers like Aon plc. (AON - Free Report) and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG - Free Report) are trading at a multiple higher than the industry average, while Brown & Brown, Inc. (BRO - Free Report) is trading at a discount.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

WTW Trading Above 50-Day and 200-Day Moving AveragesShares of WTW closed at $328.19 on Thursday, and the stock is trading above the 50-day and 200-day simple moving averages (SMA) of $324.65 and $321.14, respectively, indicating solid upward momentum. SMA is a widely used technical analysis tool to predict future price trends by analyzing historical price data.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

WTW’s Growth Projection EncouragesThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for Willis Towers’ 2026 earnings per share and revenues indicates an increase of 13.9% and 5.9%, respectively, from the corresponding 2025 estimates.

Average Target Price for WTW Suggests UpsideBased on short-term price targets offered by 20 analysts, the Zacks average price target is $369.30 per share. The average suggests a potential 12.79% upside from the last closing price.

Factors Impacting WTWWillis Towers’ growth strategy encompasses a focus on improving operating margins, increasing free cash flow conversion and driving sustainable revenue growth. Focus on core opportunities with the highest growth and return, which include gaining market share in Risk and Broking and Individual Marketplace, should spur long-term growth and return more value to shareholders.

Well-performing Health, Wealth & Career and Risk & Broking segments, driven by solid customer retention levels, growing new business and geographic diversification, continue to fuel the top line. Most of the company's operating regions experienced revenue growth for 15 straight quarters.

Strategic acquisitions have expanded its geographical footprint in the last few years in countries like Italy, Canada, the United Kingdom and France, as well as ramped up its product portfolio.

Willis Towers has been improving its liquidity while maintaining a solid balance sheet. A solid balance sheet and steady cash flow are expected to help the company engage in capital deployment for buybacks, dividend payouts, debt repayments, acquisitions and investments that drive and support growth.

Distribution of WealthBanking on its capital position, WTW distributes wealth to shareholders in the form of dividend hikes and share repurchases. Its dividend has witnessed a six-year CAGR (2019-2025) of 5.7%. The insurer continues to expect to allocate approximately $1.5 billion to share repurchases in 2025.

HeadwindsDespite the upside potential, Willis Towers’ expenses have been rising over the last several quarters. Higher salaries and benefits, other operating expenses, transaction and transformation, and increased consulting and compensation costs related to the Transformation program result in the contraction of margins. Willis Towers estimates to deliver an expansion in margin over the long term.

WTW’s trailing 12-month ROE of 21.4% is weak when compared with the industry average of 24.8%, reflecting its inefficiency in using shareholders' funds.

ConclusionWillis Towers boasts a strong product portfolio and has a solid track record of strategic acquisitions, as well as favorable growth estimates. The Health, Wealth & Career and Risk & Broking segments should continue to witness significant growth from increases in most lines of business. A robust capital position over the years reflects its financial flexibility.

Given the escalating expenses and poor return on equity, it is better to stay cautious about this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Jason Goldberg, analyst at Barclays, joins 'Money Movers' to discuss bank earnings, public policy, and more.

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The new 175-room independent hotel from Marcus Hotels & Resorts offers direct connectivity to the Baird Center

MILWAUKEE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company and division of Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), today announced the opening of The Marc Hotel, an independent 175-room hotel in downtown Milwaukee. Centrally located in the heart of the city, The Marc Hotel is connected to the Baird Center via a climate-controlled skywalk and located just steps from the city’s premier corporate offices, sports and entertainment venues, vibrant dining destinations, and nearby Marquette University.

“Driven by Marcus Hotels & Resorts longstanding commitment to excellence, The Marc Hotel’s prime location, well-appointed rooms, convenient workspaces, and adjacent restaurants and amenities will offer convention and other guests the comfort and convenience they crave,” said Michael Evans, president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts. “This is one of the busiest and most vibrant areas of the city, and we are pleased to offer our guests yet another compelling option to make the most out of their stay in Milwaukee.”

The hotel features 175 guest rooms and suites and a connected, covered parking garage structure, as well as seamless access to the neighboring Hilton Milwaukee’s dining experiences and more than 34,000 square feet of meeting and event space.

Whether staying for a night or an extended visit, The Marc Hotel offers everything guests need to feel at home. Standard rooms and suites include high-thread-count linens, ample lighting, a large workstation, complimentary Wi-Fi as well as a mini refrigerator and coffee maker. Bathrooms feature marble countertops and mirrors with built-in lighting.

The Marc Hotel takes over the former west wing of Hilton Milwaukee. Its name is a nod to Marcus Corporation’s history. In 1972, the former Schroeder Hotel was purchased by the company and renamed the Marc Plaza Hotel. Though it received a new name in 1995 under the Hilton flag, the Marc legacy returns 30 years later as the west wing reopens as The Marc Hotel.

To celebrate the hotel’s grand opening, until the end of February guests can enjoy 20% off a stay by booking this special opening offer here. To learn more about The Marc Hotel, please visit www.marchotelmilwaukee.com.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts

With The Marc Hotel, Marcus Hotels & Resorts will own and/or manage 17 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill®, The Studio Kitchen & Cocktails, Milwaukee ChopHouse®, Miller Time® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Marcus Corporation

Headquartered in Milwaukee, Marcus Corporation is a leader in the lodging and entertainment industries, with significant company-owned real estate assets. In addition to its lodging division, its theatre division, Marcus Theatres®, is the fourth largest theatre circuit in the U.S. and currently owns or operates 985 screens at 78 locations in 17 states under the Marcus Theatres, Movie Tavern® by Marcus and BistroPlex® brands. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.marcuscorp.com.

More News From The Marcus Corporation

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Key Takeaways SCHW to report Q4 results on Jan. 21, with earnings and revenues expected to rise y/y.Higher trading revenues and NIR are projected, with NIR seen up 23.7% y/y.Asset management fees are likely to grow on strong equity markets, while expenses to stay elevated. Charles Schwab (SCHW - Free Report) is slated to report fourth-quarter and 2025 results on Jan. 21, before market open. The company’s quarterly earnings and revenues are expected to have increased on a year-over-year basis.

Schwab’s third-quarter 2025 earnings outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Results benefited from solid performance of the asset management business and higher trading revenues. Higher net interest revenues (NIR) and solid brokerage account numbers were other positives.

The company has an impressive earnings surprise history. Its earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing four quarters, the average beat being 6.6%.

Before we take a look at what our quantitative model predicts, let us check the factors that are likely to have impacted Schwab’s fourth-quarter performance.

Major Factors Likely to Impact Schwab’s Q4 EarningsTrading Revenues: Client activity and market volatility were solid in the fourth quarter. Major factors that impacted trading business in the quarter included the longest U.S. government shutdown in history, a dip in consumer sentiment, easing monetary policy and a dominant AI-theme. In October and November, SCHW’s core net new assets witnessed strong year-over-year growth. Further, the number of new brokerage accounts opened grew in the first two months of the quarter.

Thus, Schwab is expected to have witnessed a rise in trading revenues in the to-be-reported quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for trading revenues is pegged at $1.03 billion, which suggests a 17.6% increase from the prior-year quarter.

NIR: The consensus estimate for SCHW’s average interest-earning assets for the to-be-reported quarter is $434 billion, indicating a year-over-year rise of 1.9%.

In the quarter, the Fed lowered interest rates twice, which, along with the September rate cut, lowered interest rates to 3.50-3.75%. While this is likely to have hurt SCHW’s NIR and net interest margin (NIM) to some extent, a solid lending scenario and stabilizing funding/deposit costs are expected to have offered the much-needed support.

The company’s continued focus on repaying high-cost bank supplemental funding balances is expected to have further supported growth.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NIR is pegged at $3.13 billion, indicating a rally of 23.7% from the prior-year quarter’s actual.

Management expects fourth-quarter NIM to expand toward the 2.80% level.

Asset Management & Administration Fees: Led by robust equity market performance, Schwab is likely to have recorded a rise in asset management and administration fees. In October and November, Schwab’s client assets receiving ongoing advisory services grew from the prior-year periods. The consensus estimate for asset management and administration fees for the to-be-reported quarter is pegged at $1.70 billion, which implies year-over-year growth of 12.5%.

Expenses: Schwab’s operating expenses have been elevated in the past few quarters. Due to persistent regulatory spending and strategic acquisitions, marketing and advertising, and efforts to enhance business efficiency, expenses are likely to have increased in the to-be-reported quarter. Also, the company’s plan to expand its branch network and hire for branch-related positions is expected to have led to higher expenses.

Management expects expenses for 2025 to rise 5.25% or a little higher.

Key Q4 Development for SCHWIn November, Schwab announced an agreement to acquire Forge Global Holdings, Inc. for $660 million in cash. The deal is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.

Per the agreement, Schwab will pay $45 per share in cash for each share of Forge Global.

Following the close, Schwab will begin offering Forge Global’s products to select ultra-high-net-worth clients, introduce ’40 Act funds to broaden private-market access and continue enhancing the integrated platform. In the near term, the company plans to extend access to more than 1 million retail clients and registered investment advisers, with further expansion to all qualified investors and enhanced stock-plan and proprietary solutions over the medium term.

The move aligns with Schwab’s strategy to offer private market capabilities to retail and advisor clients, leveraging its comprehensive suite of wealth, advisory and investment management solutions, to address the complex needs of investors.

What the Zacks Model Reveals for SchwabAccording to our quantitative model, the chances of Schwab beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings this time are high. This is because it has the right combination of the two key ingredients — a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better.

You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.

Earnings ESP: The Earnings ESP for Schwab is +4.81%.

Zacks Rank: The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3.

Earnings & Sales Estimates for SCHWIn the past seven days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for fourth-quarter earnings has been unchanged at $1.34 per share. The estimate indicates a 32.7% rise from the year-ago quarter.

For 2025, the earnings estimate is pegged at $4.83, indicating a year-over-year rise of 48.6%.

The consensus estimate for quarterly sales is pegged at $6.24 billion, which suggests a 17.2% jump from the prior-year quarter. The full-year sales estimate of $23.83 billion indicates a rise of 21.5%.

Finance Stocks Worth Betting onHere are a couple of finance stocks that you may want to consider, as these too have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat in their upcoming releases, per our model:

Truist Financial (TFC - Free Report) is scheduled to announce fourth-quarter 2025 results on Jan. 21. The company carries a Zacks Rank #3 at present and has an Earnings ESP of +0.88%.

Quarterly earnings estimates for Truist have been unchanged at $1.09 per share over the past week.

The Earnings ESP for Regions Financial (RF - Free Report) is +0.36% and it carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. The company is slated to report fourth-quarter 2025 results on Jan. 16. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Over the past seven days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Regions Financial’s quarterly earnings has been unchanged at 61 cents per share.

Key Takeaways Intel is expanding AI PCs to bring fast, on-device AI to everyday personal and work tasks.INTC's Core Ultra and Panther Lake chips boost AI, graphics, and efficiency with 18A tech.Intel is partnering with HP, Microsoft, CrawlQ.ai, and NVIDIA to expand AI tools and future PC products. Intel Corporation (INTC - Free Report) is focusing on expanding its presence in the artificial intelligence (AI) market by driving innovation and adoption through its next-generation AI PCs, which bring powerful on-device AI capabilities to everyday computing. It combines powerful hardware and a growing software network to add AI to everyday apps, making computers easier and faster for everyone.

Intel’s AI-powered PCs feature powerful processors, including CPUs, GPUs, and dedicated AI engines, that enable fast on-device AI tasks. They also offer enhanced productivity, creativity, security, and intelligent assistance across everyday applications for both personal and professional use. Core Ultra processors help AI PCs speed up tasks like writing, creating, editing, and organizing, boost gaming and keep data secure without needing constant Internet access.

The company has launched Panther Lake processors, branded as Intel Core Ultra Series 3 for AI PCs, for faster AI performance, improved graphics, and greater efficiency using advanced 18A process technology. The company is also adding power-saving features like SmartPower HDR for longer battery life and better hardware-software optimization to make AI tasks faster and more efficient.

Intel has collaborated with various companies like HP, Microsoft and CrawlQ.ai to enhance performance, integrate smarter tools and expand AI capabilities in AI PCs. The company has secured an investment from NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA - Free Report) , whereby the two companies will jointly develop future AI infrastructure and PC products.

How Are Rivals Performing?Intel faces competition from Qualcomm Incorporated (QCOM - Free Report) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD - Free Report) . Qualcomm entered the AI PC market with its Snapdragon X chip, a 4nm 8-core processor with graphics and a neural processing unit delivering 45 TOPS, designed to power Microsoft’s AI-focused Copilot+ PCs. It also offers developer tools like the Qualcomm AI Hub to help software makers optimize AI models for Snapdragon-powered computers.

AMD is expanding in the AI PC market with its Ryzen AI processors and Radeon GPUs, which provide fast on-device AI, better graphics, and improved performance for work and gaming. It has teamed up with PC makers to sell AI-powered computers and provide tools and platforms to make AI work better on its devices.

INTC’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of Intel have surged 147.1% over the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 33.7%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Going by the price/book ratio, the company's shares currently trade at 1.99 book value, lower than 32.17 of the industry average.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

INTC’s earnings estimates for 2025 have increased 6.3% to 34 cents per share, while those for 2026 have declined 1.7% to 58 cents over the past 60 days.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Intel stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Morgan Stanley (MS) Q4 2025 Earnings Call January 15, 2026 8:30 AM EST

Company Participants

Ted Pick - CEO & Chairman of the Board
Sharon Yeshaya - Executive VP & CFO

Conference Call Participants

Glenn Schorr - Evercore ISI Institutional Equities, Research Division
Daniel Fannon - Jefferies LLC, Research Division
Brennan Hawken - BMO Capital Markets Equity Research
Devin Ryan - Citizens JMP Securities, LLC, Research Division
Michael Mayo - Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Research Division
Steven Chubak - Wolfe Research, LLC
L. Erika Penala - UBS Investment Bank, Research Division
Gerard Cassidy - RBC Capital Markets, Research Division
Christopher McGratty - Keefe, Bruyette, & Woods, Inc., Research Division

Presentation

Operator

Good morning. Welcome to Morgan Stanley's Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Earnings Call. On behalf of Morgan Stanley, I will begin the call with the following information and disclaimer. This call is being recorded. During today's presentation, we will refer to our earnings release, financial supplement and strategic update, copies of which are available at morganstanley.com.

Today's presentation may include forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. Please refer to our notices regarding forward-looking statements and non-GAAP measures that appear in the earnings release and strategic update. Within the strategic update, certain reported information has been adjusted as noted. These adjustments were made to provide a transparent and comparative view of our operating performance. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP adjusted operating performance metrics are included in the notes to the presentation or the earnings release. This presentation may not be duplicated or reproduced without our consent.

I will now turn the call over to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ted Pick. Ted, you may proceed.

Ted Pick
CEO & Chairman of the Board

Good morning, and thank you for joining us. In 2025, the U.S. economy proved resilient as

Transaction in Own Shares   

15 January, 2026

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Shell plc (the ‘Company’) announces that on 15 January, 2026 it purchased the following number of Shares for cancellation.

Aggregated information on Shares purchased according to trading venue:

Date of purchaseNumber of Shares purchasedHighest price paidLowest price paid Volume weighted average price paid per shareVenueCurrency15/01/2026658,36927.540027.000027.3406LSEGBP15/01/2026----Chi-X (CXE)
GBP15/01/2026----BATS (BXE)
GBP15/01/2026650,89331.815031.265031.6014XAMSEUR15/01/2026----CBOE DXEEUR15/01/2026----TQEXEUR These share purchases form part of the on- and off-market limbs of the Company's existing share buy-back programme previously announced on 30 October 2025.

In respect of this programme, Merrill Lynch International will make trading decisions in relation to the securities independently of the Company for a period from 30 October 2025 up to and including 30 January 2026.

The on-market limb will be effected within certain pre-set parameters and in accordance with the Company’s general authority to repurchase shares on-market. The off-market limb will be effected in accordance with the Company’s general authority to repurchase shares off-market pursuant to the off-market buyback contract approved by its shareholders and the pre-set parameters set out therein. The programme will be conducted in accordance with Chapter 9 of the UK Listing Rules and Article 5 of the Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014/EU dealing with buy-back programmes (“EU MAR”) and EU MAR as “onshored” into UK law from the end of the Brexit transition period (at 11:00 pm on 31 December 2020) through the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (as amended by the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020), and as amended, supplemented, restated, novated, substituted or replaced by the Financial Services Act, 2021 and relevant statutory instruments (including, The Market Abuse (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations (SI 2019/310)), from time to time (“UK MAR”) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 (the “EU MAR Delegated Regulation”) and the EU MAR Delegated Regulation as “onshored” into UK law from the end of the Brexit transition period (at 11:00 pm on 31 December 2020) through the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (as amended by the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020), and as amended, supplemented, restated, novated, substituted or replaced by the Financial Services Act, 2021 and relevant statutory instruments (including, The Market Abuse (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations (SI 2019/310)), from time to time.

In accordance with EU MAR and UK MAR, a breakdown of the individual trades made by Merrill Lynch International on behalf of the Company as a part of the buy-back programme is detailed below.

Enquiries

Media: International +44 (0) 207 934 5550; U.S. and Canada: https://www.shell.us/about-us/news-and-insights/media/submit-an-inquiry.html

2026.01.15 Shell RNS (with fills)

Tesla Today

$442.98 +3.78 (+0.86%)

As of 12:23 PM Eastern

This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.

52-Week Range$214.25▼

$498.83P/E Ratio294.91

Price Target$410.20

Shares of Tesla Inc. NASDAQ: TSLA are heading into their upcoming earnings report with tension building across multiple fronts. It ended 2025 and began 2026 with a seven-day losing streak that saw the stock test and hold its rising support line. Luckily for the bulls, this has formed what looks like another higher low in a rally that has been in place since before last summer. From a technical perspective, that’s a good thing. From a sentiment perspective, however, it has only sharpened what was already a stark divide.

On one side of that divide are analysts who believe Tesla’s best days are behind it, at least for now. On the other hand, there are those who remain convinced that the market is still underestimating the company’s long-term potential, and the path of least resistance continues to point higher. Let’s take a closer look at both arguments below. 

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The Bear Case: Pressure Is Mounting For starters, the bearish argument has gained a bit of momentum this month already, and that makes it harder to ignore. This week has seen the team at Wells Fargo reiterate its Underweight rating on Tesla, while giving the stock a fresh $130 price target. Considering shares are currently trading around $450, that implies some pretty dramatic downside from current levels, about 70% to be exact. Wells Fargo’s bearish stance reflects growing concern that several key metrics are moving in the wrong direction at the same time.

Production and deliveries, for example, have been declining, as has market share in some key regions, while competition across the EV landscape continues to intensify. Chinese manufacturers in particular have been aggressive on pricing and scale, putting pressure on Tesla’s volumes and margins. 

Against that backdrop, skeptics argue that Tesla’s current valuation leaves zero margin for error. With a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio hovering around 300, its highest in nearly five years, anything less than a perfect report in two weeks’ time could trigger a serious re-pricing.

And the kicker is, their argument kind of makes sense. A company that’s been facing slowing growth and rising competition for as long as Tesla has, while trading at an increasingly juicy premium, should be approached with caution.

The Bull Case: Tesla Is More Than an EV Company Tesla Stock Forecast Today12-Month Stock Price Forecast:
$410.20
-7.52% Downside

Hold
Based on 44 Analyst Ratings

Current Price$443.57High Forecast$600.00Average Forecast$410.20Low Forecast$25.28Tesla Stock Forecast Details

However, the bullish camp sees the situation very differently. Providing some counterweight to Wells Fargo’s uber-negative stance, the teams at Piper Sandler and New Street Research both assigned Overweight ratings last week, assigning price targets of $500 and $600, respectively. Those targets point to a potential upside of 35% and underscore the belief that Tesla’s story cannot be reduced to quarterly delivery numbers.

The bulls argue that Tesla has been steadily diversifying beyond pure vehicle sales into areas such as robotics, sustainable energy, and full self-driving software. These initiatives carry the potential for higher-margin, recurring revenue streams that are not yet fully reflected in the stock.

That broader vision and ability to consistently pivot successfully is why Tesla has long defied even the most airtight bearish arguments. Time and again, the company has found ways to reframe its narrative and unlock new growth drivers just as skepticism appears to be peaking. For believers, the recent pullback is not so much a warning sign, but another opportunity to load up ahead of a major catalyst. 

A Stock on the Front Foot, With Little Room for Error What makes this earnings setup particularly nuanced is the timing. Tesla is not limping into earnings from a position of weakness. Instead, the stock is very much in an uptrend, momentum has stabilized after the recent selloff, and buyers have been quick to step in at a technically important level. That puts Tesla on the front foot heading into the report.

But that position cuts both ways. Sure, strong results could reinforce the bullish case and validate the argument that the latest dip was just another buying opportunity. Anything less than perfect, however, would make it much harder to defend the current valuation and could embolden skeptics who have been waiting for proof that fundamentals are finally catching up with sentiment.

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

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TGT climbs 22% in three months, but slower demand and uneven store traffic keep the company's outlook mixed.

Key Takeaways WHR is offsetting soft U.S. housing demand with aggressive product renewals that drove retail and share gains.WHR's SDA business posted double-digit revenue growth via new products and a growing DTC channel.Whirlpool is investing for recovery, citing U.S. home undersupply, aging stock and a $300M laundry expansion. Whirlpool Corporation (WHR - Free Report) is navigating the slowdown in U.S. housing demand by leaning on innovation, market share gains and structural advantages rather than waiting for a macro rebound. Management acknowledged that elevated mortgage rates continue to suppress housing-related demand, limiting near-term benefits from the housing cycle. As a result, the company is focused on actions it can control, including product refreshes, cost discipline and competitive positioning, to sustain performance.

A central pillar of Whirlpool’s response is its aggressive product renewal in North America. In 2025, more than 30% of its major domestic appliance portfolio transitioned to new products compared with less than 10% in a normal year. These launches have already delivered substantial retail flooring gains and encouraging early sell-through, helping Whirlpool post market share gains in North American major appliances, even in a soft demand environment. Premium offerings such as the redesigned KitchenAid suite are also strengthening Whirlpool’s position with builders and trade partners.

Whirlpool is also benefiting from diversification within its portfolio. Its global small domestic appliance (SDA) business posted double-digit revenue growth and robust margins, supported by new products and a growing direct-to-consumer channel that is less sensitive to housing cycles. This segment is providing a meaningful offset to housing-driven weakness in major appliances.

Whirlpool is positioning for an eventual housing recovery. Management highlighted a significant undersupply of U.S. homes and an aging housing stock as long-term demand drivers once interest rates ease. Combined with its predominantly U.S.-based manufacturing footprint and continued investments, including a $300 million expansion in U.S. laundry facilities, Whirlpool believes it is well-positioned to emerge stronger when housing demand normalizes.

WHR’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesWhirlpool’s shares have lost 11.4% in the past six months compared with the industry’s 10.8% decline.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, WHR trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 12.28X compared with the industry’s average of 10.43X.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WHR’s 2025 indicates a year-over-year decline of 45.6%, while that for 2026 EPS suggests year-over-year growth of 3.8%. The company’s EPS estimate for 2025 has been unchanged, while the EPS estimate for 2026 has been northbound in the past 30 days. Whirlpool currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

Solid Picks in WHR’s Broader SectorWe have highlighted three other top-ranked stocks from the Consumer Discretionary sector, namely G-III Apparel Group (GIII - Free Report) , Guess? Inc. (GES - Free Report) and Steven Madden (SHOO - Free Report) .

G-III Apparel is a designer, manufacturer and distributor of apparel and accessories under licensed brands, owned brands and private label brands. GIII carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for G-III Apparel’s fiscal 2025 sales and earnings indicates declines of 6.3% and 34.8%, respectively, from the year-ago period’s reported figures. GIII has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 64.5%, on average.

Guess designs, markets, distributes and licenses casual apparel and accessories for men, women and children as per the American lifestyle and European fashion sensibilities. GES has a Zacks Rank #2 at present.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Guess’s fiscal 2025 sales indicates growth of 8%, while the EPS estimate suggests a decline of 13.8% from the year-ago period’s reported figures. GES has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 45%, on average.

Steven Madden designs, sources, markets and sells fashion-forward branded and private-label footwear, accessories, handbags and apparel for women, men and children across the world. SHOO currently has a Zacks Rank #2.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Steven Madden’s 2025 sales indicates growth of 11%, while the EPS estimate suggests a decline of 37.1% from the year-ago period’s reported figures. SHOO has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 3.3%, on average.

Stock market performance in 2025 surprised to the upside as this bull market continued to impress the masses. The themes we saw last year appear to be carrying over into the new year, a positive sign that this multi-year rally still has legs.

Inflation measures have come down markedly from their 2022 peaks. This week’s release of the December CPI report showed headline inflation rose 0.3% over the prior month and 2.7% on an annual basis, with both figures matching expectations.

On a “core” basis, which strips out volatile food and energy components, consumer prices rose 0.2% over the previous month and 2.6% year-over-year. The 2.6% increase in core prices matched the climb from November and equates to the slowest annual pace of inflation dating back to March 2021.

A weakening U.S. dollar continues to boost the corporate earnings picture, a trend that looks likely to linger in the year ahead. Treasury yields have come down decidedly from their highs as well. Put together, these bullish tailwinds enhance the probability of further strength ahead for stocks.

Markets on Edge Despite Strong Start to 2026Still, there are always reasons that critics can point to as to why stocks can’t possibly continue higher. Early in 2026, we have concerns regarding the recent U.S. military strike and capture of Venezuelan President Maduro, which has global implications.

Another negative headline arrived this past weekend after U.S. prosecutors opened a criminal investigation into the Federal Reserve, specifically Fed Chair Powell’s testimony as it relates to recent building renovations.

In related news, credit card companies saw their stocks suffer this week after President Trump proposed limiting credit card fees to 10%. While it’s unclear how this would be implemented without approval from Congress, the change would be a huge hit to companies like Capital One that have major credit card businesses.

And in the coming weeks, we’re also expected to receive an update from the Supreme Court on the legality of Trump’s tariffs, which sent shockwaves through financial markets early last year.

But as we know, stocks climb a wall of worry. The earnings outlook continues to progress favorably, with the U.S. consumer proving healthy and resilient.

Stocks to Watch as Nasdaq Attempts BreakoutSemiconductor stocks were trading higher Thursday morning after KeyBanc Capital upgraded two big players in Intel (INTC - Free Report) and AMD (AMD - Free Report) earlier in the week. Analysts at KeyBanc cited robust data center demand along with tightening memory supply spanning the entire semiconductor space.

Both AMD and Intel staged impressive recoveries in 2025, fueled by the relentless AI infrastructure buildout. But fresh developments—ranging from Trump administration support to Nvidia's strategic investment—add compelling layers to their stories. These updates reinforce why both remain attractive, even after strong 2025 gains.

AMD has been the standout performer, with shares rising nearly 80% in 2025, closing the year strongly amid MI300 accelerator ramps and data center dominance. The company's focus on high-performance computing paid dividends as AI server revenue surged, contributing to robust earnings growth.

Image Source: StockCharts

AMD CEO Lisa Su's CES keynote earlier this month underscored AI's transformative scale. She described demand as "going through the roof," predicting over 5 billion active AI users in the next five years. Notably, Su emphasized AI isn't displacing jobs but reshaping hiring toward AI-skilled roles, with AMD continuing robust recruitment. Her vision of "AI everywhere, for everyone" highlighted partnerships and platforms like Ryzen AI Halo for local deployment.

Meanwhile, Intel's narrative has shifted dramatically under the Trump administration's focus on domestic chip manufacturing. Last August, a historic deal granted the U.S. government a roughly 10% equity stake in Intel in exchange for $8.9 billion in funding, tied to expanded U.S. fabrication and national security priorities. President Trump has since highlighted this as a success, noting the stake's value has grown to "tens of billions" amid share appreciation.

Intel, long overshadowed, engineered a remarkable turnaround, more than doubling from around $20 per share to nearly $50 —bolstered by foundry progress, cost disciplines, and emerging AI PC traction with Core Ultra processors.

Image Source: StockCharts

Adding intrigue, Nvidia finalized a $5 billion stake in Intel in late December 2025 (that was announced in September), acquiring about a 4% ownership stake. This alliance aims at joint AI infrastructure development, providing Intel capital for foundry expansion while aligning incentives. It's a vote of confidence from the AI leader, potentially easing competitive tensions and opening co-development opportunities.

Bottom LineThe AI server market remains in the early innings, with multi-year hyperscaler expansions providing visibility.

In my experience, cycles like this reward patience. These developments—policy backing for Intel, Nvidia's endorsement, and Su's confident outlook—highlight shared AI server tailwinds amid sold-out capacity. Both stocks offer balanced exposure to U.S. semiconductor resilience.

After a brief reprieve, crypto returned to selling off during U.S. market hours on Thursday.

Key NotesBNB Foundation sent 1,371,703.66 BNB to a burn address on Jan.15, which marks the first quarterly burn of 2026.The remaining total supply stands at 136.36 million BNB with a target reduction goal of 100 million tokens.A separate gas fee burning protocol has destroyed roughly 281,000 BNB since its launch. BNB Chain has completed its 34th quarterly token burn, which destroyed approximately 1.37 million BNB worth $1.29 billion. The event marks the network’s first scheduled supply reduction of 2026.

The burn removed 1,371,703.66 BNB BNB $937.6 24h volatility: 0.7% Market cap: $127.77 B Vol. 24h: $1.88 B from circulation, according to the official BNB Chain announcement. The destruction reduced the total circulating supply to 136,361,367 BNB.

The 34th quarterly $BNB token burn has been completed directly on BNB Smart Chain (BSC).

1.37M #BNB has been burned 🔥

View the details of the burn below 👇https://t.co/QKSVBhHK0T pic.twitter.com/dpvm8e4TDu

— BNB Chain (@BNBCHAIN) January 15, 2026

Blockchain records confirm the tokens were sent to a designated burn address that permanently removes them from circulation. The burn transaction was processed on Jan. 15 at approximately 08:43 UTC.

BscScan transaction record showing 1,371,703.6655 BNB ($1.29 billion) sent to the null address (0x000…dEaD) on Jan. 15, 2026. | Source: BscScan

Supply Reduction Mechanism BNB Chain operates an Auto-Burn system designed to reduce the total supply to 100 million tokens over time. The system calculates burn amounts based on the token’s price and network activity during each quarter. Recent network upgrades have increased block production frequency, and the Auto-Burn formula parameters have been adjusted accordingly.

The network also runs a gas fee burning protocol that destroys a portion of transaction fees in real time. Since its introduction, roughly 281,000 BNB have been destroyed through this method. The BNB Smart Chain does not create new tokens, which means the supply only decreases over time.

Recent Network Activity The burn arrived one day after BNB Chain completed its Fermi hard fork, as previously reported by Coinspeaker. That upgrade reduced block production time to 0.45 seconds.

BNB/USDT hourly chart showing price action on Jan. 15, 2026 | Source: TradingView

Market reaction was initially muted. BNB declined from $942 to $938 in the three hours following the on-chain transaction. After BNB Chain posted its official announcement, the price recovered from a session low of $937 to a high of $945. BNB currently trades near $939 with a market capitalization of approximately $128.78 billion.

The token reached an all-time high of $1,369.99 in October 2025 and remains roughly 31% below that peak. Trading volume over the past 24 hours totaled $1.89 billion.

Disclaimer: Coinspeaker is committed to providing unbiased and transparent reporting. This article aims to deliver accurate and timely information but should not be taken as financial or investment advice. Since market conditions can change rapidly, we encourage you to verify information on your own and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content.

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As a Web3 marketing strategist and former CMO of DuckDAO, Zoran Spirkovski translates complex crypto concepts into compelling narratives that drive growth. With a background in crypto journalism, he excels in developing go-to-market strategies for DeFi, L2, and GameFi projects.

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