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It has been about a month since the last earnings report for IQVIA Holdings (IQV - Free Report) . Shares have added about 5.6% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.

Will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is IQVIA due for a pullback? Well, first let's take a quick look at its latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent catalysts for IQVIA Holdings Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.

IQVIA Surpasses Q2 Earnings EstimatesIQVIA Holdings Inc. has reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $3.15 per share, rising 12.1% year over year and beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.02 by 4.3%. Revenues of $4.36 billion increased 8.7% and topped the consensus mark of $4.29 billion by 1.6%.

The quarter benefited from broad-based segment growth and strengthening demand indicators. R&D Solutions generated record net new bookings of $3.15 billion, up 19% year over year, producing a 1.22X book-to-bill ratio.

IQV's Commercial Solutions Gains MomentumCommercial Solutions revenues were $1.79 billion, increasing 8.6% on a reported basis and 8.4% at constant currency. The business contributed roughly 41% to the total quarterly revenues.

Growth reflected double-digit gains in patient solutions and commercial engagement services. Analytics and consulting delivered high-single-digit organic growth, while increased adoption of IQVIA’s artificial intelligence solutions also contributed to the segment’s accelerating organic growth.

IQVIA's R&D Bookings Signal Strong DemandResearch & Development Solutions revenues reached $2.58 billion, up 8.8% as reported and 8.6% at constant currency. Excluding reimbursed expenses, revenues advanced 6.7% on a reported basis.

Demand indicators strengthened considerably. Trailing-12-month net new bookings rose 13% to $11.3 billion, while contracted backlog stood at $34.2 billion. IQVIA expects $9.2 billion of that backlog to convert into revenues over the next 12 months, representing 7.5% year-over-year growth.

The strong bookings performance provides improved visibility into future clinical research revenues. It also supports management’s expectation for sustained business momentum through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027.

IQV's Adjusted Profitability Holds FirmAdjusted EBITDA increased 9.2% year over year to $994 million. The adjusted EBITDA margin was 22.8%, modestly above the prior-year level, as profit growth slightly outpaced revenue growth.

Adjusted net income increased to $527 million from $486 million. The improvement reflected stronger operating performance despite higher stock-based compensation, restructuring-related expenses and acquisition-related costs included in the company’s reconciliation.

GAAP net income attributable to IQVIA was $256 million, down from $266 million a year earlier. GAAP diluted earnings were $1.53 per share compared with $1.54 in the prior-year quarter.

IQVIA's Operating Costs Reflect InvestmentCost of revenues increased to $2.93 billion from $2.69 billion in the year-ago quarter. Selling, general and administrative expenses rose to $574 million from $509 million, while depreciation and amortization increased to $292 million.

Restructuring costs nearly doubled to $63 million from $32 million. As a result, GAAP income from operations remained unchanged at $506 million despite the higher revenue base.

Interest expenses increased to $197 million from $182 million. These cost pressures explain the contrast between the decline in GAAP net income and stronger growth in adjusted earnings and EBITDA.

IQVIA's Cash Flow Supports Share RepurchasesThe second-quarter operating cash flow climbed 26% year over year to $558 million. The free cash flow rose 23.3% to $360 million after $198 million of property, equipment and software spending.

For the first half, the operating cash flow totaled $1.18 billion and the free cash flow reached $851 million. IQVIA repurchased $398 million of common stock during the quarter, bringing first-half repurchases to $950 million.

IQV's Balance Sheet Remains LeveragedIQVIA ended June with $1.91 billion in cash and cash equivalents, and $16 billion in debt. Net debt was $14.09 billion, while the net leverage ratio stood at 3.59X trailing-12-month adjusted EBITDA.

The company had $2.82 billion remaining under its share-repurchase authorization. Its current portion of long-term debt was $2.29 billion compared with $1.84 billion at the end of 2025.

IQV Raises Its 2026 Financial OutlookIQVIA raised its 2026 revenue guidance to $17.28-$17.48 billion from $17.15-$17.35 billion.

The updated forecast assumes 200 basis points of contribution from acquisitions, up from 150 basis points previously. It also incorporates a foreign-exchange tailwind of approximately 20 basis points, down from the prior assumption of 100 basis points.

Adjusted EBITDA guidance increased to $4-$4.05 billion from $3.98-$4.03 billion. IQVIA also lifted adjusted diluted earnings guidance to $12.80-$13 from $12.65-$12.95, reflecting stronger expected organic revenue growth and revised acquisition and currency impacts.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?In the past month, investors have witnessed a upward trend in estimates review.

VGM ScoresAt this time, IQVIA has a average Growth Score of C, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with an F. However, the stock was allocated a grade of B on the value side, putting it in the second quintile for value investors.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. Notably, IQVIA has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.

Performance of an Industry PlayerIQVIA is part of the Zacks Medical - Instruments industry. Over the past month, Edwards Lifesciences (EW - Free Report) , a stock from the same industry, has gained 5.9%. The company reported its results for the quarter ended June 2026 more than a month ago.

Edwards Lifesciences reported revenues of $1.74 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +13.6%. EPS of $0.78 for the same period compares with $0.67 a year ago.

For the current quarter, Edwards Lifesciences is expected to post earnings of $0.73 per share, indicating a change of +9% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged over the last 30 days.

Edwards Lifesciences has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) based on the overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions. Additionally, the stock has a VGM Score of B.

Bank of America Corp DE lowered its stake in Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE:CPK – Free Report) by 5.9% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 62,535 shares of the utilities provider’s stock after selling 3,938 shares during the period. Bank of America Corp DE owned 0.26% of Chesapeake Utilities worth $7,903,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in CPK. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Chesapeake Utilities by 94.7% in the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 222 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $27,000 after acquiring an additional 108 shares during the period. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Chesapeake Utilities by 292.9% during the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 220 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $28,000 after buying an additional 164 shares in the last quarter. Entrust Financial LLC bought a new position in Chesapeake Utilities during the 4th quarter valued at $37,000. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC grew its holdings in Chesapeake Utilities by 66.1% during the third quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 274 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $37,000 after acquiring an additional 109 shares during the period. Finally, Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. lifted its stake in Chesapeake Utilities by 133.0% during the fourth quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. now owns 487 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $61,000 after purchasing an additional 278 shares during the last quarter. 83.11% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Chesapeake Utilities Stock Performance CPK opened at $135.34 on Wednesday. Chesapeake Utilities Corporation has a 1 year low of $118.88 and a 1 year high of $140.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.79, a current ratio of 0.32 and a quick ratio of 0.28. The business’s 50-day moving average price is $130.41 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $128.93. The company has a market capitalization of $3.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.59 and a beta of 0.68.

Chesapeake Utilities (NYSE:CPK – Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 6th. The utilities provider reported $1.05 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.07 by ($0.02). The company had revenue of $201.90 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $198.91 million. Chesapeake Utilities had a return on equity of 9.34% and a net margin of 15.12%.The firm’s revenue for the quarter was up 4.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.04 EPS. Chesapeake Utilities has set its FY 2026 guidance at 7.750-8.000 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Chesapeake Utilities Corporation will post 6.42 EPS for the current fiscal year. Chesapeake Utilities Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, October 5th. Investors of record on Monday, September 14th will be paid a $0.735 dividend. This represents a $2.94 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, September 14th. Chesapeake Utilities’s payout ratio is 46.89%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research analysts have commented on CPK shares. Wells Fargo & Company raised their target price on shares of Chesapeake Utilities from $132.00 to $134.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a report on Monday, August 10th. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Chesapeake Utilities from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a research note on Friday, July 10th. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded Chesapeake Utilities from a “hold” rating to a “sell” rating in a research report on Saturday, August 1st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $138.00.

Read Our Latest Research Report on CPK

Chesapeake Utilities Profile (Free Report)

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE: CPK) is a diversified energy services holding company headquartered in Dover, Delaware. Through its operating subsidiaries, the company engages in natural gas distribution, transmission and storage; propane distribution; wholesale propane supply; and contract compression and natural gas liquids processing. Its core mission is to provide safe, reliable and cost-effective energy solutions to residential, commercial and industrial customers across multiple U.S.

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It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Entergy (ETR - Free Report) . Shares have lost about 1.4% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.

Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Entergy due for a breakout? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at the latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important drivers.

Entergy Q2 Earnings Beat Estimates, Sales Improve Year Over Year

Entergy Corporation reported second-quarter 2026 earnings of $1.03 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 94 cents by 9.6%. However, the bottom line decreased 1.9% from the year-ago quarter’s figure of $1.05.

ETR’s Total RevenuesRevenues rose 5.9% year over year to $3.52 billion but missed the consensus mark of $3.53 billion by 0.08%. Results benefited from regulatory actions, construction-related returns and higher retail demand. Industrial sales volume jumped 9.9%.

Entergy’s Segmental PerformanceThe Utility business generated earnings of $626 million, up from $599 million in the prior-year quarter. Earnings were $1.34 per share in both periods, as growth in total income was offset by a higher diluted share count.

The Parent & Other segment reported a loss of $143 million, wider than the $131 million loss in the prior-year quarter. The loss per share was 31 cents compared with 29 cents a year ago, primarily due to higher interest expense.

Entergy's Retail Sales Gain on Industrial DemandTotal retail electricity sales increased 4.1% year over year to 33,725 gigawatt-hours (GWh). On a weather-adjusted basis, retail sales grew 5.7%, highlighting underlying demand growth across Entergy’s service territories.

Industrial volume climbed to 17,164 GWh from 15,620 GWh. The increase reflected higher sales to data center, primary metals and chlor-alkali customers. Weather-adjusted residential demand rose 2.8%, while commercial sales increased 0.3%.

ETR Faces Higher Costs and Financing PressureUtility other operation and maintenance expenses reduced earnings by 8 cents per share. The decline reflected higher power delivery costs, including increased vegetation maintenance spending, along with higher compensation and benefit costs tied to health care claims and prescription drug rebate timing.

Utility interest expense lowered earnings by 11 cents per share due to higher debt balances, a higher average interest rate and carrying costs on customer advances.

Depreciation and amortization also pressured results as Entergy placed more utility assets into service. The company cited higher federal regulatory depreciation rates at Entergy Arkansas and Entergy Louisiana, along with increased nuclear depreciation rates in Louisiana.

Entergy’s Financial HighlightsAs of June 30, 2026, Entergy had cash and cash equivalents of $3.85 billion compared with $1.93 billion as of Dec. 31, 2025.

Long-term debt totaled $31.55 billion compared with $27.9 billion as of Dec. 31, 2025.

Second-quarter operating cash flow increased to $1.89 billion from $1.26 billion a year earlier. The improvement reflected higher customer advance receipts, stronger utility collections and lower fuel and purchased-power payments. Vendor payment timing and higher interest payments partly offset these benefits.

Entergy Reaffirms Its Earnings OutlookEntergy has reaffirmed its 2026 adjusted earnings guidance of $4.25-$4.45 per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings is pinned at $4.40 per share, which is higher than the company’s guided range.

ETR also maintained its longer-term adjusted earnings guidance. Entergy expects $4.90-$5.20 per share in 2027, $5.55-$5.85 in 2028, $6.25-$6.55 in 2029 and $7.05-$7.35 in 2030. Management continues to target adjusted earnings growth of more than 8% annually through 2030.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?Since the earnings release, investors have witnessed a downward trend in estimates review.

VGM ScoresCurrently, Entergy has a average Growth Score of C, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with an F. However, the stock was allocated a score of C on the value side, putting it in the middle 20% for this investment strategy.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Notably, Entergy has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.

Bank of New York Mellon Corp purchased a new position in Teleflex Incorporated (NYSE:TFX – Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 263,156 shares of the medical technology company’s stock, valued at approximately $33,358,000. Bank of New York Mellon Corp owned about 0.59% of Teleflex as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in TFX. Kelleher Financial Advisors purchased a new stake in Teleflex during the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise raised its stake in shares of Teleflex by 82.5% in the fourth quarter. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise now owns 250 shares of the medical technology company’s stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 113 shares during the last quarter. UMB Bank n.a. lifted its holdings in shares of Teleflex by 57.1% during the fourth quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 311 shares of the medical technology company’s stock valued at $38,000 after purchasing an additional 113 shares in the last quarter. Kestra Advisory Services LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Teleflex during the fourth quarter valued at $45,000. Finally, Hantz Financial Services Inc. boosted its position in shares of Teleflex by 40.5% during the fourth quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 392 shares of the medical technology company’s stock valued at $48,000 after buying an additional 113 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 95.62% of the company’s stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth TFX has been the topic of several research analyst reports. BMO Capital Markets started coverage on Teleflex in a report on Wednesday, July 8th. They set an “outperform” rating and a $159.00 price target on the stock. Mizuho boosted their price target on Teleflex from $140.00 to $145.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 15th. Truist Financial increased their price objective on shares of Teleflex from $143.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock a “hold” rating in a research note on Monday, August 10th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on shares of Teleflex from $130.00 to $138.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a report on Friday, May 8th. Finally, Raymond James Financial restated an “outperform” rating and set a $150.00 target price on shares of Teleflex in a research report on Friday, May 8th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating, six have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $152.90.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on TFX Teleflex Stock Up 1.5% Shares of NYSE TFX opened at $139.81 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 2.60, a quick ratio of 2.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.94. Teleflex Incorporated has a 12-month low of $100.18 and a 12-month high of $145.00. The firm’s 50-day moving average price is $133.86 and its 200-day moving average price is $125.91. The stock has a market capitalization of $5.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -6.00, a P/E/G ratio of 0.92 and a beta of 0.81.

Teleflex (NYSE:TFX – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 6th. The medical technology company reported $1.76 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.28 by $0.48. The company had revenue of $570.33 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $559.59 million. Teleflex had a positive return on equity of 11.93% and a negative net margin of 39.67%.The firm’s revenue was up 28.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $3.73 earnings per share. Teleflex has set its FY 2026 guidance at 6.900-7.200 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Teleflex Incorporated will post 7.26 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Teleflex Announces Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 30th. Investors of record on Friday, August 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.34 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 14th. This represents a $1.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.0%. Teleflex’s payout ratio is presently -5.84%.

Teleflex Profile (Free Report)

Teleflex Incorporated is a diversified global provider of medical technologies, specializing in critical care and surgery. Headquartered in Wayne, Pennsylvania, the company designs, manufactures and distributes devices and solutions used by healthcare professionals in hospital, ambulatory and alternate site settings. Teleflex focuses on delivering products that support complex interventional procedures and improve patient outcomes.

The company’s offerings span several key segments, including Interventional Urology, Respiratory & Anesthesia, Surgical, Cardiac Care, Vascular and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) solutions.

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Key Takeaways Ensign Group is benefiting from rising occupancy, patient volumes and skilled-mix revenue growth.Ensign Group completed 25 acquisitions in H1 2026, adding 3,109 beds and units.Standard Bearer's rental revenues rose to $44.1 million, adding recurring income to Ensign's strategy. The Ensign Group, Inc. (ENSG - Free Report) remains well positioned to benefit from favorable demographic trends and continued demand for post-acute care, supported by rising occupancy, patient volumes and skilled mix. The company provides post-acute healthcare services primarily through its Skilled Services and Standard Bearer segments, with operations spanning skilled nursing, senior living, rehabilitation and related healthcare services.

Following a steady pace of acquisitions, Ensign's footprint now comprises 398 healthcare operations, 32 of which also offer senior living services across 17 states. The company owns 183 healthcare real estate properties, of which 144 are operated by Ensign-affiliated entities. Since 2024, Ensign has sourced, underwritten, closed and transitioned 102 new operations. ENSG has risen 3.7% year to date compared with the industry’s average gain of 5%. ENSG currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

Where Do Estimates for ENSG Stand?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Ensign Group’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $7.65 per share, indicating a 16.4% year-over-year rise. The consensus mark for revenues is pegged at $5.88 billion for 2026, implying 16.3% year-over-year growth. ENSG beat earnings estimates in each of the past four quarters, delivering an average surprise of 4.2%.

The Ensign Group, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS SurpriseENSG’s Growth DriversEnsign's exposure to the post-acute care market provides a favorable foundation for growth, as rising demand supports higher occupancy and patient volumes. It also has opportunities to improve transitioning facilities, where operational metrics remain below those of mature operations, leaving room for further revenue and profitability gains as these facilities mature. In the second quarter of 2026, same-facility occupancy reached 84.1%, while transitioning-facility occupancy was 84.7%. Skilled-mix revenues increased 10.1% and 14.0%, respectively, highlighting continued strength in demand and operational improvement.

Strategic acquisitions remain a key growth driver for Ensign, providing opportunities to expand its operating footprint and improve underperforming facilities through its established operating model. During the first half of 2026, the company completed 25 operational acquisitions, adding 3,109 beds and units, while spending approximately $412 million on acquisitions.ENSG expects to maintain a healthy pace of acquisition activity, with additional opportunities lined up for the second half of 2026. Reflecting continued operating momentum and the contribution from acquisitions, Ensign raised its 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $7.75-$7.85, with the midpoint representing 18.7% growth over 2025.

Beyond its healthcare operations, Ensign continues to expand its real-estate platform through the Standard Bearer segment. As of the second quarter of 2026, Standard Bearer owned 177 properties with an estimated real estate fair value of approximately $2.2 billion, while 99% of its leases expire after 2031.Standard Bearer's contribution is also growing rapidly. Second-quarter rental revenues increased to $44.1 million from $31.5 million a year earlier, while segment income increased to $12.1 million from $9.1 million. Funds from Operations rose to $24.7 million from $18.4 million. The expansion of the real-estate portfolio therefore provides Ensign with an additional source of recurring rental income while supporting its broader post-acute care strategy.

Ensign's balance sheet continues to provide substantial financial flexibility for acquisitions and investment. As of June 30, 2026, the company had $262.3 million in cash and cash equivalents and approximately $591.6 million of availability under its credit facility. Operating activities generated $272.1 million of cash during the first six months of 2026, while long-term debt totaled $135.6 million, excluding $4.2 million of current maturities. The company's net debt-to-adjusted EBITDAR ratio was 2.02X, and management highlighted more than $850 million of dry powder available for future investments.

ENSG: Risks to WatchThere are some factors, however, that investors should keep an eye on.

Ensign remains exposed to reimbursement and regulatory risks due to its reliance on government-funded payers. Medicare and Medicaid accounted for 69.0% of service revenues in the first half of 2026, making reimbursement and policy changes important factors for profitability. Competition for acquisitions, labor and patient referrals also remains a key risk in the highly competitive and fragmented post-acute care market.

Cost pressures remain a key factor to watch. Total expenses increased 12.3% in 2024 and 18.7% in 2025, followed by an 18.0% year-over-year increase to $2.57 billion in the first half of 2026. If expense growth continues to outpace revenue gains, it could pressure margins and limit earnings growth.

Other Stocks to ConsiderSome other top-ranked stocks in the broader Medical space are Tenet Healthcare Corporation (THC - Free Report) , sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present, and The Pennant Group, Inc. (PNTG - Free Report) and PACS Group, Inc. (PACS - Free Report) , both carrying a Zacks Rank #2. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Tenet Healthcare’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $20.60 per share, indicating a 22.8% year-over-year improvement. THC beat earnings estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 22.7%. The consensus estimate for 2026 revenues is pinned at $22.16 billion, implying 4% year-over-year growth.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Pennant Group’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $1.39 per share, indicating a 17.8% year-over-year improvement. It beat earnings estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 6.4%. PNTG has witnessed two upward revisions in the past 60 days, with no movement in the opposite direction.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PACS Group’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $2.36 per share, indicating 93.44% year-over-year growth. PACS has witnessed one upward revision in the past 60 days, with no movement in the opposite direction. The consensus estimate for 2026 revenues is pinned at $5.8 billion, implying 9.7% year-over-year growth.

Latest credit of over $15 brings total settlement refunds to more than $80 per customer while the company continues PFAS treatment upgrades across Illinois

, /PRNewswire/ -- Illinois American Water announced that additional credits were recently applied to customers' bills as a result of the company's receipt of proceeds from settlements reached with manufacturers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

On August 10, 2026, Illinois American Water issued a $15.02 bill credit to all active water customer accounts as of June 30, 2026. The credit distributed to customers in total was $4.7 million from recent settlement proceeds the company received from PFAS manufacturers.

The first bill credit of $17 million total for eligible Illinois American Water customers occurred in November 2025 followed by a second credit in February 2026 of $3.2 million total. With this latest credit, $24.9 million total has been returned to eligible Illinois American Water customers through PFAS-related settlements. Eligible accounts active during all three distributions have received a total of $82.40 per account to date.

The credit is made possible through Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approval of Illinois American Water's PFAS Litigation Universal Credit Rider, which allows the company to provide PFAS settlement proceeds directly to customers as they are received. The credits are applied to all active customer accounts and are not based on any level of PFAS detected in a customer's water.

The company is committed to complying with all drinking water standards and is taking appropriate actions to meet new PFAS regulations as they are implemented. The company has completed PFAS treatment upgrades in several communities and plans to invest approximately $92 million to expand PFAS treatment across multiple water systems throughout Illinois through 2029. For more information about PFAS and the steps Illinois American Water is taking to address them, visit the company's PFAS information page.

About American Water 
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 19 military installations. American Water's approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram. 

About Illinois American Water 
Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest regulated water utility in the state with approximately 600 dedicated employees working to provide safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville.   

SOURCE American Water

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for American Water Works (AWK - Free Report) . Shares have lost about 0.1% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.

But investors have to be wondering, will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is American Water Works due for a breakout? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at the latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important catalysts.

American Water Q2 Earnings Top Estimates on Rate Growth & Acquisitions

American Water Works Company Inc. reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.61 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.59 by 1.3%. The bottom line increased 8.1% from $1.49 in the year-ago quarter. Earnings benefited from contributions coming from authorized rate increases, infrastructure investments and acquired operations.

Total RevenuesRevenues of $1.36 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.28 billion by 6.2% and rose 6.2% year over year. The company added nearly 52,000 customer connections through acquisitions in the first half.

Regulated Businesses generated net income of $331 million in the second quarter, up from $288 million a year earlier. Operating revenues in the segment increased $90 million year over year.

The improvement primarily reflected authorized revenue increases from completed general rate cases and infrastructure proceedings. Incremental revenues from closed acquisitions also supported growth. Since the beginning of 2026, American Water has received authorization for $216 million of additional annualized revenues.

American Water Faces Higher Operating CostsTotal operating expenses were $813 million, up 3.3% from $787 million in the prior-year quarter. Operation and maintenance expenses were nearly flat at $481 million compared with $480 million. General taxes rose 7% to $92 million. Despite cost pressures, operating income advanced 10.8% to $542 million as revenue growth outpaced the increase in expenses.

AWK’s Financing Costs Remain a HeadwindInterest expense increased to $167 million from $151 million a year ago. The increase resulted from additional short and long-term debt used primarily to fund capital investments.Interest income declined 86.4% to $3 million from $22 million. Total other expenses, net, widened to $137 million from $113 million. Nevertheless, income before taxes rose to $405 million from $376 million, while net income attributable to common shareholders increased to $315 million from $289 million.

American Water Advances Its Investment PlanThe company invested $1.8 billion in infrastructure improvements and growth during the first six months of 2026. This included $346 million directed toward regulated acquisitions. American Water remains on track to invest approximately $3.7 billion in 2026, including acquisitions. Its long-term plan targets annual rate base growth of 8-9%, supported by infrastructure renewal, water quality projects, resiliency investments and system expansion.

AWK Continues to Expand Through AcquisitionsThe company completed the acquisition of Nexus Water Group systems on June 1. The transaction added roughly 46,600 customer connections across 60 systems in eight states.Additional acquisitions completed through June 30 added 5,700 connections. American Water also had 19 acquisitions under agreement, representing about 56,600 customer connections and $236 million of investment. The acquisition pipeline exceeds 1.5 million customer connections.

American Water Strengthens Its Financial PositionCash and cash equivalents totaled $191 million as of June 30, 2026, up from $98 million at the end of 2025. Net cash provided by operating activities increased to $907 million in the first half from $632 million in the prior-year period. Long-term debt rose to $14.04 billion from $12.78 billion at year-end. During June, the company settled 3.4 million shares under forward sale agreements and received $476 million in net proceeds.

AWK Reaffirms Its 2026 OutlookAmerican Water reaffirmed adjusted earnings guidance of $6.02-$6.12 per share for 2026. The outlook excludes merger-related transaction costs, weather impacts and certain incremental interest income. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is currently pegged at $6.09 per share. Management also maintained its long-term earnings and dividend growth targets of 7-9%. The company expects Pennsylvania and New Jersey revenue increases to support stronger second-half results, with Pennsylvania’s newly authorized rates scheduled to take effect Aug. 13.

American Water Makes Merger ProgressThe proposed merger with Essential Utilities continued to advance. Kentucky, Ohio and Virginia have approved the transaction, while the companies reached a settlement in principle in Texas. Regulatory reviews remain underway in several other states. American Water expects the transaction to close by the end of the first quarter of 2027, subject to the receipt of remaining approvals and satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?In the past month, investors have witnessed a upward trend in fresh estimates.

VGM ScoresCurrently, American Water Works has a average Growth Score of C, however its Momentum Score is doing a bit better with a B. However, the stock has a score of D on the value side, putting it in the bottom 40% for this investment strategy.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of this revision looks promising. Interestingly, American Water Works has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.

Key Takeaways Digital Turbine is expanding through app growth, international gains, AI and the Orange partnership.AppLovin is boosting ad efficiency with AI while expanding into consumer advertising and new verticals.Digital Turbine shares surged 158.5%, while AppLovin fell 32.9% over the past year. Digital Turbine, Inc. (APPS - Free Report) and AppLovin Corporation (APP - Free Report) are two ad-tech players benefiting from the increasing use of AI to improve mobile advertising, user acquisition and monetization. Digital Turbine is positioning itself as an end-to-end mobile growth platform connecting advertisers, publishers, carriers and device manufacturers, while AppLovin is using its AI-powered advertising technology to improve campaign performance and expand into new advertiser categories. The key question for investors is which company offers the stronger long-term growth opportunity.

The Case for APPSDigital Turbine continues to expand its role in the mobile application ecosystem by serving advertisers, publishers, carriers and device OEMs through its two complementary businesses. Its App Growth Platform enables publishers to monetize users through display, native and video advertising, while allowing advertisers and agencies to participate in programmatic and real-time bidding. In fiscal first-quarter 2027, App Growth Platform revenue rose 55.9% to $56.6 million, with advertising exchange revenues benefiting from the continued onboarding and growth of new publishers and demand partners.

Digital Turbine is also benefiting from improving international traction. On Device Solutions revenues increased 15.2% to $110 million, primarily reflecting improved international performance, including higher new-device volumes and revenue per device in international markets. The company uses its relationships with mobile carriers and OEMs to connect consumers with applications and content directly on their devices, giving it an opportunity to participate in the app economy beyond traditional advertising channels.

AI is becoming an important part of Digital Turbine's platform evolution. The company is integrating AI into its core intelligence systems to improve targeting, recommendations and real-time optimization across apps, devices and on-device surfaces. Its collaborations with Google Cloud and Databricks are designed to accelerate the data and AI strategy, while management said these tools are helping the company optimize its data to drive better results for platform partners and advertisers and attract new partners seeking improved yields and returns on advertising spend.

The company's alternative app distribution strategy provides another avenue for expansion. Digital Turbine entered into a strategic partnership with Orange, which serves 340 million customers across 26 countries in EMEA. Through the agreement, Digital Turbine plans to bring its alternative app distribution platform and SingleTap technology to Orange subscribers during the latter half of fiscal 2027. This gives the company an opportunity to expand its distribution capabilities through a major telecom network and strengthen its presence across international markets.

Management's confidence is reflected in its fiscal 2027 outlook, which calls for $650-$670 million in revenues and $145-$155 million in adjusted EBITDA. With the App Growth Platform scaling, international On Device Solutions gaining traction, AI capabilities advancing and alternative distribution expanding through the Orange partnership, Digital Turbine has several distinct levers to support its longer-term growth.

The Case for APPAppLovin continues to strengthen its position in digital advertising through its integrated platform spanning AppLovin Ads, MAX, Adjust and Wurl. The company is benefiting from improving advertising efficiency, with net revenue per installation increasing 58% in the second quarter of 2026 despite a 2% decline in installation volume. This reflects improving monetization efficiency as AppLovin generates more revenue from each installation.

AppLovin's AI-powered advertising technology remains central to its growth strategy. The company continues to enhance its Axon AI recommendation system, with investments in architecture that allow more complex models to benefit from additional training compute. Management is also improving creative tools and ad formats to help advertisers optimize campaigns and achieve better outcomes. Continued model improvements are expected to support advertising performance and encourage greater spending on the platform.

The company's consumer advertising business provides another avenue for expansion beyond gaming. Advertiser spending in the consumer vertical reached a record level in the second quarter, finishing 28% above fourth-quarter 2025 levels despite the seasonal slowdown. Management believes that adding more advertiser categories to its auction can substantially expand the opportunity ahead, with gaming improvements and consumer expansion supporting its view that the business can potentially compound at roughly 30% annually over the longer term.

AppLovin is also broadening its advertiser base through the public launch of AppLovin Ads Manager. The company is initially targeting mid-market advertisers, where its platform currently performs best, while planning to expand toward the long tail as its data and technology compound. At the same time, AppLovin is pursuing opportunities in new verticals such as e-commerce and connected TV, which could expand its addressable market beyond mobile gaming.

Management's confidence is reflected in its third-quarter 2026 outlook, which calls for $2.06-$2.09 billion in revenues and $1.71-$1.74 billion in adjusted EBITDA, implying an adjusted EBITDA margin of approximately 83%. The guidance incorporates continued model improvements, expansion of the consumer business and seasonal strength. With AI capabilities advancing, advertiser categories expanding and new opportunities emerging across e-commerce and connected TV, AppLovin has several distinct levers to support its longer-term growth.

How Does the Zacks Consensus Estimate Compare for APPS & APP?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Digital Turbine’s current fiscal-year sales and EPS implies growth of 16.8% and 53.6%, respectively, from the year-ago period’s actuals. For the next fiscal year, the consensus estimate indicates a 9.5% rise in sales and 33.7% growth in earnings. The consensus estimates for EPS for the current and next fiscal year have increased 2 cents and 9 cents over the past 30 days to 86 cents and $1.15, respectively.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AppLovin's current financial-year sales and EPS implies growth of 40% and 54.7%, respectively, from the year-ago period’s actuals. For the next financial year, the consensus estimate indicates 27.5% growth in sales and 28.5% growth in earnings. The consensus estimate for EPS for the current and next fiscal year has decreased 50 cents and $1.45 over the past 30 days to $15.53 and $19.95, respectively.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Stock Performance of Digital Turbine & AppLovinShares of Digital Turbine have skyrocketed 158.5% in the past year, whereas AppLovin has declined 32.9%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Stock Valuations of APPS & APPDigital Turbine is trading at a forward price-to-sales (P/S) multiple of 1.91, above its median of 0.79 in the past three years. AppLovin’s forward 12-month P/S multiple sits at 10.81, below its median of 15.98 in the past three years.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Digital Turbine or AppLovin: Which is the Better Bet Now?While AppLovin remains an attractive ad-tech player with strong AI capabilities, expanding consumer advertising operations and a broadening addressable market, Digital Turbine currently appears to hold the edge for investors. The company’s rapidly growing App Growth Platform, improving international On Device Solutions business, AI-driven optimization initiatives and alternative app distribution strategy provide multiple avenues for growth. In addition, Digital Turbine’s significantly lower valuation and stronger recent stock performance offer greater upside potential, while its improving execution and fiscal 2027 outlook support the growth story. With accelerating platform momentum, new distribution opportunities and a more favorable valuation, Digital Turbine offers a more compelling opportunity.

Digital Turbine currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), whereas AppLovin currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

CLAYTON, Missouri and THE WOODLANDS, Texas, /PRNewswire/ -- Olin Corporation (NYSE: OLN) and Huntsman Corporation (NYSE: HUN) today announced that their respective shareholders have approved the proposals necessary to complete the companies' previously announced all-stock merger of equals.

"We greatly appreciate the strong support of Olin and Huntsman shareholders as we reach this important milestone," said Ken Lane, President and Chief Executive Officer of Olin. "OlinHuntsman Corporation will be a more value-focused chemicals company with a world-scale vertically integrated platform that is better positioned to serve customers across the value chain and deliver resilient financial performance. We are committed to completing the remaining steps to close the transaction, and to delivering long-term value for our shareholders, customers, employees, and communities as one company."

"OlinHuntsman will be better positioned to compete in an increasingly global industry, delivering value, adding products and greater service for customers," said Peter Huntsman, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Huntsman. "We thank our shareholders for the overwhelming support at the special meeting and look forward to completing this combination and getting to work building a global chemicals leader."

Based on preliminary voting results, at the special meeting of Olin shareholders held today, approximately 97% of the votes cast, representing 81% of all outstanding shares, were voted in favor of the consummation of the transaction through a direct merger of Olin and Huntsman. At the special meeting of Huntsman stockholders held today, approximately 99% of the votes cast, representing 75% of all outstanding shares, were voted in favor of the merger based on preliminary voting results.

Based on these preliminary voting results, subject to the satisfaction of other closing conditions, the transaction will proceed through a direct merger of Olin and Huntsman.

The final voting results are subject to certification by the companies' respective independent inspectors of elections and will be reported in separate Current Reports on Form 8-K filed by Olin and Huntsman with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2027 and remains subject to the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the satisfaction or waiver of other customary closing conditions.

About Olin

Olin Corporation is a leading vertically integrated global manufacturer and distributor of chemical products and a leading U.S. manufacturer of ammunition. The chemical products produced include chlorine and caustic soda, vinyls, epoxies, chlorinated organics, bleach, hydrogen, and hydrochloric acid. Winchester's principal manufacturing facilities produce and distribute sporting ammunition, law enforcement ammunition, reloading components, small caliber military ammunition and components, industrial cartridges, and clay targets.

Visit www.olin.com for more information on Olin Corporation.

About Huntsman

Huntsman Corporation is a publicly traded global manufacturer and marketer of diversified chemical products with 2025 revenues of approximately $6 billion from our continuing operations. Our chemical products number in the thousands and are sold worldwide to manufacturers serving a broad and diverse range of consumer and industrial end markets. We operate more than 55 manufacturing, R&D and operations facilities in approximately 25 countries and employ approximately 6,000 associates within our continuing operations. For more information about Huntsman, please visit the company's website at www.huntsman.com.

Social Media:
X: www.x.com/Huntsman_Corp
Facebook: www.facebook.com/huntsmancorp
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/huntsman

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains "forward-looking statements". These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on management's current beliefs, certain assumptions and forecasts made by management, and current expectations, estimates and projections. Such forward-looking statements include statements regarding the proposed combination between Olin and Huntsman, the future results of the combined company and the benefits anticipated to be realized from the proposed combination, the impact of the proposed transaction on the combined company's business, projections as to the amount and timing of synergies and the closing date for the proposed transaction, and other uncertainties and contingencies in connection with the foregoing. The statements contained in this communication that are not statements of historical facts may include "forward looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We have used the words "anticipate," "intend," "may," "expect," "believe," "should," "plan," "outlook," "project," "estimate," "forecast," "optimistic," "target" and variations of such words and similar expressions in this communication to identify such forward-looking statements.

The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from these forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (i) the risk that the proposed transaction may not achieve some or all of the anticipated benefits and that the proposed transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all; (ii) the possibility that any or all of the various conditions to the consummation of the proposed transaction may not be satisfied or waived, including the failure to receive any required regulatory approvals from any applicable governmental entities (or any conditions, limitations or restrictions placed on such approvals); (iii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement relating to the proposed transaction; (iv) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the proposed transaction on Olin's or Huntsman's ability to attract, motivate or retain key executives and associates, their ability to maintain relationships with customers, vendors, service providers and others with whom they do business, or their operating results and business generally; (v) risks related to the proposed transaction diverting management's attention from Olin's and Huntsman's ongoing business operations; (vi) the risk of litigation in connection with the proposed transaction, including resulting expense or delay; (vii) business, industry and operational risks applicable to Olin and/or Huntsman, including (a) sensitivity to economic, business and market conditions in the United States and overseas, including economic instability or a downturn in the sectors served by Olin and/or Huntsman; (b) declines in average selling prices for Olin's and/or Huntsman's products and the supply/demand balance for Olin's and/or Huntsman's products, including the impact of excess industry capacity; (c) unsuccessful execution of Olin's and/or Huntsman's operating models; (d) failure to control costs and inflation impacts or failure to achieve targeted cost reductions; (e) availability of and/or higher-than-expected costs of raw material, energy, transportation, and/or logistics; (f) Olin's and/or Huntsman's reliance on a limited number of suppliers for specified feedstock and services and their reliance on third-party transportation; (g) the occurrence of unexpected manufacturing interruptions and outages, including those occurring as a result of labor disruptions and production hazards; (h) exposure to physical risks associated with climate-related events or increased severity and frequency of severe weather events; (i) the failure or an interruption, including cyber-attacks, of Olin's and/or Huntsman's information technology systems, including risks from the rapid evolution and increased adoption of artificial intelligence technologies that may intensify cybersecurity risks and enable new or augment existing attack techniques and the potential for intellectual property infringement or unintentional disclosure of proprietary or confidential information through artificial intelligence tools; (j) risks associated with Olin's and/or Huntsman's international sales and operations, including economic, political or regulatory changes; (k) weak industry conditions affecting Olin's and/or Huntsman's ability to comply with the financial maintenance covenants in its debt agreements; (l) Olin's and/or Huntsman's indebtedness and debt service obligations; (m) failure to identify, attract, develop, retain and motivate qualified employees throughout the respective organizations and ability to manage executive officer and other key senior management transitions; (n) adverse conditions in the credit and capital markets, limiting or preventing Olin's and/or Huntsman's ability to borrow or raise capital; (o) Olin's and/or Huntsman's inability to complete future acquisitions or joint venture transactions or successfully integrate them into the business; (p) the effects of any declines in global equity markets on asset values and any declines in interest rates or other significant assumptions used to value the liabilities in, and funding of, Olin's and/or Huntsman's pension plans;  (q) Olin's and/or Huntsman's long-range plan assumptions not being realized, causing a non-cash impairment charge of long-lived assets; (r) exposure to risks associated with the creditworthiness of Olin's and/or Huntsman's key suppliers, customers and business partners and reductions in demand for their customers' products; (s) failure to develop new products, processes or applications, or failure to keep pace with evolving technological innovations in end-use markets; (t) inability to protect patents and trade secrets or enforce intellectual property rights, particularly in countries where effective intellectual property laws and judicial systems may be unavailable; (u) conflicts, military actions, terrorist attacks, political events, public health crises and general instability, along with increased security regulations, that could adversely affect Olin and/or Huntsman's business; and (v) legal, environmental and regulatory risks, including (a) changes in, or failure to comply with, legislation or government regulations or policies, including changes regarding Olin's and/or Huntsman's ability to manufacture or use certain products and changes within the international markets in which Olin and/or Huntsman operate; (b) new regulations or public policy changes regarding the transportation of hazardous chemicals and the security of chemical manufacturing facilities; (c) unexpected outcomes from legal or regulatory claims and proceedings; (d) costs and other expenditures in excess of those projected for environmental investigation and remediation or other legal proceedings; (e) various risks associated with Olin's Lake City U.S. Army Ammunition Plant contract and performance under other governmental contracts and (f) compliance with data privacy regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other applicable data privacy laws, which could result in substantial fines, penalties and legal liability.

All of Olin's and Huntsman's forward-looking statements should be considered in light of these factors. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to Olin or Huntsman or that Olin or Huntsman consider immaterial could affect the accuracy of the forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of Olin and/or Huntsman. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those matters expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties, and other factors can be found in Olin's filings with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings, available at the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov, https://olin.com or on request from Olin and in Huntsman's filings with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings, available at the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov, https://www.huntsman.com or on request from Huntsman. Any forward-looking statement made in this release speaks only as of the date of this communication. Neither Olin nor Huntsman undertake any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, or any other information in this release whether as a result of future events, new information or otherwise, or to correct any inaccuracies or omissions in them which become apparent. All forward-looking statements in this communication are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

CONTACT: [email protected]  

SOURCE Olin Corporation; Huntsman Corporation

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Silgan Holdings (SLGN - Free Report) . Shares have added about 1.9% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.

But investors have to be wondering, will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Silgan due for a pullback? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at its most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important drivers.

Silgan Holdings Q2 Earnings Top Estimates on Rise in Metal ContainersSilgan Holdings reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 98 cents per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 96 cents by 2.08%. The bottom line declined 3% from $1.01 in the year-ago quarter.

Including one-time items, earnings were 72 cents per share compared with earnings of 83 cents in the prior-year quarter.

Net revenues increased 6.8% year over year to $1.64 billion and surpassed the consensus estimate of $1.62 billion by 1.54%. Higher raw-material cost pass-throughs supported revenues, while high-single-digit growth in fragrance dispensing products and pet food metal containers stood out operationally.

SLGN’s Q2 Costs & MarginsIn second-quarter 2026, the cost of goods sold increased 8.7% year over year to $1.35 billion. Gross profit declined 1.4% to $295 million. The gross margin was 17.9% compared with the prior-year quarter’s 19.4%.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $127 million, up 4.1% year over year. The company reported an adjusted operating income of $185.3 million compared with $193 million in the prior-year quarter. The adjusted operating margin was 11.3% compared with the prior-year quarter’s 12.5%.

Silgan Holdings’ Q2 Segmental PerformanceRevenues in the Dispensing and Specialty Closures segment rose 1.7% year over year to $714 million. Results benefited from the pass-through of higher raw-material and other costs and favorable foreign currency translation but were partially offset by lower volumes and an unfavorable product mix. The segment’s adjusted EBITDA was $146.9 million compared with $145.5 million in second-quarter 2025.

The Metal Containers segment’s revenues improved 13% year over year to $764 million due to the contractual pass-through of higher raw-material and manufacturing costs. Volumes were comparable with the prior-year quarter, as growth in pet food markets was offset by weaker fruit, vegetable and soup volumes. The segment’s adjusted EBITDA was $86.2 million compared with $84.4 million in the prior-year quarter.

In the Custom Containers segment, revenues increased 2.9% year over year to $165.5 million. Favorable price and product mix aided revenues, partially offset by a 4% decline in volumes. The segment reported adjusted EBITDA of $35.2 million, up from the previous-year quarter’s $33.6 million.

SLGN's Cash Flow & Balance SheetSilgan had cash and cash equivalents of $0.35 billion at June 30, 2026, compared with $1.08 billion at the end of 2025. Total debt was $4.83 billion, up from $4.35 billion at year-end.

The company used $993.9 million of cash in operating activities during the first six months of 2026 compared with $904.9 million in the prior-year period. Capital expenditure was $146.7 million versus $155.7 million a year earlier.

SLGN used $993.9 million in cash in operating activities compared with an outflow of $904.9 million in the first six months of 2025.

Silgan Holdings Reaffirms 2026 OutlookSLGN reaffirmed its 2026 adjusted earnings guidance of $3.73-$3.93 per share. The midpoint implies growth of 3% from the adjusted earnings of $3.72 per share reported in 2025.

The company also maintained its free cash flow forecast of $450 million and capital expenditure estimate of $310 million. 

For the third quarter, SLGN expects adjusted earnings of $1.21-$1.31 per share compared with $1.22 in the year-ago period.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?It turns out, estimates revision have trended downward during the past month.

VGM ScoresAt this time, Silgan has a average Growth Score of C, though it is lagging a bit on the Momentum Score front with a D. However, the stock was allocated a score of A on the value side, putting it in the top quintile for value investors.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Interestingly, Silgan has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.

Key Takeaways United Therapeutics' ralinepag NDA was accepted by the FDA, with a decision expected on June 24, 2027.Ralinepag cut clinical worsening risk by 55% versus placebo and improved key secondary endpoints.The once-daily oral therapy also improved six-minute walk distance and NT-proBNP levels in PAH patients. United Therapeutics (UTHR - Free Report) announced that the FDA has accepted the new drug application (NDA) seeking approval for its investigational drug, ralinepag, a once-daily oral prostacyclin receptor agonist for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). A decision from the regulatory body is expected on June 24, 2027.

PAH is a rare and life-threatening condition marked by high blood pressure in the lung arteries, which can strain the heart and eventually cause heart failure. It affects about 500,000 people worldwide, including 50,000 in the United States, while many cases remain undiagnosed or untreated.

Year to date, shares of United Therapeutics have risen 8.3% compared with the industry’s 2.3% growth.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Ralinepag NDA Backed by UTHR’s Positive Phase III DataUnited Therapeutics submitted the NDA for oral ralinepag in PAH indications to the FDA in June. The filing was based on positive data from the phase III ADVANCE OUTCOMES study. The study met its primary endpoints by demonstrating that treatment with ralinepag reduced the risk of clinical worsening by 55% versus placebo and showed durable efficacy in delaying disease progression in patients with PAH. Statistically significant improvements were observed across key secondary endpoints such as six-minute walk distance and changes in N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels.

If approved, ralinepag would become the first and only once-daily oral prostacyclin approved by the FDA for PAH. UTHR’s convenient dosing could provide an attractive option for patients while helping the company address competitive pressures facing its existing PAH portfolio.

UTHR’s Established PAH Franchise Provides Strong FoundationUnited Therapeutics has an established presence in the PAH market, with four marketed therapies: Tyvaso, Orenitram, Adcirca and Remodulin. Tyvaso products are among the key contributors to the company’s revenues. The company markets Tyvaso in two formulations, Tyvaso DPI and nebulized Tyvaso. Both are approved for PAH and pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD).

The company is advancing Tresmi, an investigational inhaled treprostinil solution delivered via a soft mist inhaler for the treatment of PAH and PH-ILD. The therapy is designed to reduce coughing by up to 90% compared with Tyvaso DPI. UTHR plans to submit regulatory applications for PAH and PH-ILD in 2026, with a commercial launch in 2027, subject to regulatory approval.

Ralinepag DPI Adds Further Growth PotentialBeyond the oral formulation, United Therapeutics is developing an inhaled dry-powder version of ralinepag, ralinepag DPI (RAL-DPI), in collaboration with MannKind Corporation (MNKD - Free Report) . While initially targeting PAH, management sees potential opportunities for RAL-DPI in PH-ILD, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and progressive pulmonary fibrosis. At present, the candidate is in an early-stage of development. The company plans to file an investigational new drug application later this year.

UTHR's Zacks Rank & Stocks to ConsiderUnited Therapeutics currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Some better-ranked stocks in the biotech sector are Precigen (PGEN - Free Report) , currently sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while AC Immune (ACIU - Free Report) carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Over the past 30 days, estimates for Precigen’s 2026 loss per share have improved from a loss of 2 cents to earnings per share of 25 cents. Over the same period, earnings estimates for 2027 have risen from 25 cents to 86 cents. PGEN shares have increased 72% year to date.

Precigen’s earnings beat estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and missed in the remaining one, with the average surprise being 108.96%.

Over the past 30 days, estimates for AC Immune’s 2026 loss per share have narrowed from 84 cents to 60 cents. Over the same period, earnings estimates for 2027 remained unchanged at 17 cents. ACIU shares have declined 13.7% year to date.

AC Immune’s earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 33.25%.

When your AI agent has its own wallet, the question isn’t whether someone will try to trick it into sending funds. It’s when. Virtuals Protocol is rolling out programmable agent wallets designed to make that scenario a lot less catastrophic, introducing owner-configurable policies that enforce rules at the wallet level rather than relying on the AI itself to behave.

The programmable wallets operate on Base with an expansion into Solana, giving agents non-custodial multi-chain smart accounts. Virtuals has introduced presets like “DENY_ALL,” which requires manual approval for every transaction, and “ACP_ONLY,” which limits where funds can actually go.

Policies are enforced server-side, meaning they operate as a protection layer completely independent of the AI agent’s logic. Even if an attacker successfully poisons an agent’s memory or injects malicious prompts, the wallet itself won’t execute transactions that violate the owner’s rules.

The architecture also separates wallet identity from signing keys. Policy controls can be managed through a dashboard or command line interface, giving owners flexibility in how they configure and monitor their agents’ financial behavior.

The problem this solves is already costing people money In 2026, over $150,000 was drained from an AI agent through prompt injection techniques. The attack surface is straightforward: AI agents that interact with external data can be fed instructions that override their intended behavior. If those agents control wallets without independent enforcement layers, a successful injection can result in unauthorized fund transfers.

Memory poisoning works similarly but plays a longer game. Rather than a single malicious prompt, attackers gradually corrupt the context an agent relies on for decision-making, slowly shifting its behavior until it executes actions the owner never intended.

Scale and competitive positioning Virtuals Protocol currently hosts over 18,000 agents leveraging on-chain wallets. Updates to the Agent Commerce Protocol beta are focused on job execution and delegation, expanding what agents can actually do with their wallets beyond simple token transfers. Direct payments for computational resources from wallets highlight how the infrastructure is being designed for agents that operate as genuine economic actors.

The Solana rollout adds multi-chain capability. The spending limits enforced at the signing layer with programmable guardrails provide what amounts to a firewall between an AI’s potentially compromised reasoning and the actual movement of funds.

Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.

The XRP Ledger has exceeded 5 billion all-time transactions, marking a major milestone for the blockchain network that launched in June 2012. Blockchain explorer xrpscan brought attention to the achievement in a recent post.

14 years of sustainable payments innovationThe history of the XRP Ledger began in 2011 when engineers David Schwartz, Jed McCaleb, and Arthur Britto set out to design a new digital asset. With an eye on Bitcoin and its limitations, their goal was to create a more sustainable and payment-focused blockchain solution. The XRP Ledger officially went live in June 2012, and since then, it has consistently processed transactions within 3 to 4 seconds and with minimal fees.

According to developer and community member Hussein Zangana, the network has maintained reliability and low-cost settlement over its 14-year history. He noted the steady performance of the ledger in a recent message, expressing optimism for its continued growth.

5 billion transactions were executed on the XRP Ledger at low cost, settled in 3–4 seconds and consistently over 14 years. Looking forward to the next 5 billion.

AI integration and institutional adoptionRecent data shows that the XRP Ledger has processed more than 2.3 million agentic transactions as artificial intelligence agents increasingly leverage the network. These AI agents use XRP and RLUSD for on-chain payments for automated services, underlining the blockchain’s evolving utility.

Institutional use cases are also expanding, especially within decentralized finance. The XRP Ledger has seen significant growth in the tokenization of real-world assets, stablecoins, and decentralized liquidity protocols. Data from rwa.xyz places the current value of tokenized real-world assets on the ledger at $4.05 billion. This figure reflects a fourfold increase since 2026, emphasizing strong institutional demand for secure, blockchain-based asset representation.

While traditional financial markets have long relied on complex broker networks, a notable shift is taking place. Wall Street participants are moving more activity to Web3, and investors now utilize platforms like 1stepSwap to hold shares of leading U.S. companies alongside gold and silver, directly in crypto wallets. Tokenizing real-world assets and executing trades at the best market price within seconds, these solutions remove middlemen and streamline market access.

Deflationary supply and growing demandThe XRP Ledger employs a deflationary model, systematically burning a portion of transaction fees. Since its deployment, approximately 14,376,417 XRP has been burned, accounting for 0.014% of the total capped supply of 100 billion XRP. As of now, the number of XRP accounts has surpassed 8 million, reaching a total of 8,094,489 accounts.

XRP-based ETFs in the United States currently hold $1.4 billion in XRP, representing 1.62% of the asset’s total market capitalization. Cumulative net inflows for these ETF products have reached $1.62 billion.

Community development and future eventsThe XRP Ledger ecosystem continues to receive support from major institutions. Mastercard has joined as a sponsor of the upcoming XRP Ledger Hackathon. The XRP Ledger Foundation will co-host this event ahead of the Ripple Swell conference scheduled for October.

XRP’s utility continues to grow, particularly in institutional DeFi sectors such as tokenized real-world assets, stablecoins, and decentralized liquidity.

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALNY), the leading RNAi therapeutics company, today announced new data at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2026 demonstrating the strength of RNAi-powered silencing for cardiovascular disease. The findings further reinforce the clinical profile of AMVUTTRA® (vutrisiran) across transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) patient populations, treatment settings, and manifestations of disease. Additionally, the data expand the potential application of RNAi to uncontrolled hypertension, the world’s leading cause of cardiovascular disease.

“With the power of our RNAi therapeutics platform, we have the potential to make a transformational impact on cardiovascular care,” said Pushkal Garg, M.D., Chief Research and Development Officer at Alnylam. “The data presented at ESC demonstrate the consistency of clinical outcomes achieved by RNAi-powered TTR silencing, reinforcing our conviction in AMVUTTRA as a first-line treatment option for ATTR-CM. With zilebesiran, we have the potential to extend the precision and durability of RNAi to uncontrolled hypertension. Together, these programs reflect our ambition to change the course of cardiovascular disease for patients with high unmet need.”

Vutrisiran Analyses

HELIOS-B Prespecified Subgroup Analysis Demonstrates Consistent Clinical Benefit with Vutrisiran Across Contemporary ATTR-CM Treatment Settings

A late-breaking oral presentation featured a prespecified subgroup analysis of the HELIOS-B Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating the treatment effect of vutrisiran according to baseline tafamidis use. The results were simultaneously published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Among 654 randomized and treated patients in HELIOS-B, 259 patients (40%) were receiving tafamidis at baseline. The treatment effect for vutrisiran on the primary composite endpoint of all-cause mortality and recurrent cardiovascular events through 33-36 months was consistent irrespective of baseline tafamidis use, suggesting clinical benefits across broad patient populations, including those receiving stabilizers.

All-cause mortality and additional cardiovascular outcomes showed a similar benefit among patients who were receiving tafamidis at baseline (“combination population”) and those who were not (“monotherapy population”). Across both groups, treatment with vutrisiran preserved functional capacity versus placebo, as measured by the Six-Minute Walk Test. Improvement in health status by vutrisiran versus placebo, as measured by the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-overall summary score, was observed in both the monotherapy and combination populations with an attenuated effect seen among patients receiving tafamidis at baseline. Safety outcomes were generally similar between combination vutrisiran and tafamidis versus tafamidis alone, and between vutrisiran monotherapy versus placebo. HELIOS-B was not powered to establish the benefit of vutrisiran specifically in the population of patients receiving background tafamidis at baseline. These findings reinforce the impact of vutrisiran across contemporary ATTR-CM treatment settings and warrant further evaluation of TTR silencing and stabilization combination strategies.

Additional HELIOS-B Analyses Highlight the Potential Impact of Vutrisiran on the Multisystemic Burden of ATTR-CM

Additional analyses presented at ESC further underscore the multisystemic burden of ATTR-CM and the importance of evaluating measures beyond traditional cardiac endpoints. Real-world evidence from the French National Health Data System showed that patients with ATTR-CM had a significantly higher burden of extra-cardiac manifestations across multiple organ systems compared with matched controls, and multiple manifestations were recorded years before ATTR-CM identification and tended to accumulate over time, suggesting a prolonged pre-diagnostic phase with evolving multisystem involvement.

A post hoc analysis of HELIOS-B evaluated the impact of treatment with vutrisiran on intrinsic capacity, a composite measure encompassing locomotion, cognition, vitality, psychological well-being and sensory function aligned with the World Health Organization Integrated Care for Older People framework. In the overall study population, compared with placebo, patients treated with vutrisiran demonstrated 25% less decline from baseline intrinsic capacity score and a 52% reduction in the risk of decline, suggesting that treatment with vutrisiran may help preserve functional reserve and support healthy aging in patients with ATTR-CM.

A separate post hoc safety analysis of HELIOS-B showed that patients treated with vutrisiran had fewer adverse events overall compared with placebo across the overall study population, monotherapy population and combination population. Among the most frequent system organ classes in the overall population, the lowest adverse event rate ratios were observed for gastrointestinal disorders and nervous system disorders, with 42% and 41% lower adverse event rates, respectively, with vutrisiran compared with placebo; eye disorders showed a 46% lower event rate with vutrisiran compared with placebo.

Pooled Phase 3 Data Reinforce Consistent Treatment Effects of RNAi-Powered TTR Silencing Across Sexes

A pooled analysis of 1,402 patients (203 females, 1,199 males) across four Phase 3 studies of vutrisiran and patisiran further reinforces the clinical benefits of RNAi-mediated TTR silencing across sexes. Despite sex-specific baseline differences in disease presentation, treatment effects were consistent between females and males across both ATTR-CM and the polyneuropathy of hereditary ATTR (hATTR-PN), including clinical, biomarker, functional, health status and echocardiographic measures.

“These data add to the deep and consistent evidence base supporting RNAi-mediated TTR silencing in ATTR-CM,” said Teresa Trenkwalder, M.D., Senior Physician, TUM University Hospital German Heart Center. “Across patient populations, treatment settings, and manifestations of disease, the analyses of vutrisiran demonstrate the clinical benefit that can be achieved by reducing TTR production at its source.”

Zilebesiran Analysis

The KARDIA-3 Phase 2 study evaluated zilebesiran, an investigational RNAi therapeutic with the potential to provide continuous control of blood pressure (BP) with biannual dosing, in patients with uncontrolled hypertension with high cardiovascular (CV) risk treated with two or more background antihypertensives. In patients who were receiving a background diuretic with an office systolic BP (SBP) ≥140 mmHg at baseline, zilebesiran achieved greater reductions in mean office and 24-hour ambulatory SBP than in the overall study population. Furthermore, patients treated with zilebesiran experienced SBP reductions across the diurnal cycle, including at nighttime. Similar findings were observed in patients who had impaired nocturnal dipping at baseline. These findings are potentially important given the association between elevated nighttime BP and CV risk. The safety profile in this post hoc subgroup was consistent with the broader zilebesiran Phase 2 program. These findings further support the evaluation of zilebesiran in the ongoing global Phase 3 CV outcomes trial, ZENITH.

Zilebesiran will be featured as part of Alnylam's 10th “RNAi Roundtable” series on September 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. ET.

To view Alnylam’s ESC Congress 2026 presentations, please visit Capella. Alnylam may share additional data and information during the Congress through its Investors website and/or Capella.

AMVUTTRA® (vutrisiran) INDICATIONS AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Indications

In the EU, AMVUTTRA® (vutrisiran) is indicated for the treatment of:

hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis in adult patients with stage 1 or stage 2 polyneuropathy (hATTR-PN).wild-type or hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis in adult patients with cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM).Availability across the EU is subject to local reimbursement timelines.

Important Safety Information

Reduced Serum Vitamin A Levels and Recommended Supplementation

Vutrisiran treatment can lower serum vitamin A levels, therefore supplementation of approximately, but not exceeding, 2500 IU to 3000 IU vitamin A per day is advised for patients.

Adverse Reactions

Commonly reported adverse reactions with vutrisiran were injection site reactions and increase in blood alkaline phosphatase and alanine transaminase.

For additional information about vutrisiran, please see the full Summary of Product Characteristics.

ONPATTRO® (patisiran) INDICATION AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Indication

In the EU, ONPATTRO® (patisiran) is indicated for the treatment of hereditary transthyretin-mediated (hATTR) amyloidosis in adults with stage 1 or stage 2 polyneuropathy.

Important Safety Information

Reduced Serum Vitamin A Levels and Recommended Supplementation

Patisiran treatment can lower serum vitamin A levels, therefore supplementation of approximately, but not exceeding, 2500 IU to 3000 IU vitamin A per day is advised for patients.

Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions that occurred in patients treated with patisiran were peripheral oedema (30%) and infusion-related reactions (19%).

For additional information about patisiran, please see the full Summary of Product Characteristics

About AMVUTTRA® (vutrisiran)

AMVUTTRA® (vutrisiran) demonstrates strength in RNAi-powered transthyretin (TTR) silencing, delivering rapid knockdown of TTR at the source of disease to address the underlying cause of transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR). In the HELIOS-B Phase 3 study, AMVUTTRA reduced the risk of all-cause mortality and recurrent CV events compared to placebo in the overall and monotherapy populations by 28.2% and 32.8%, respectively, through 36 months. It is the only TTR silencer approved for both the polyneuropathy of hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis (hATTR-PN) and cardiomyopathy of wild-type or hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis (ATTR-CM) in countries globally. AMVUTTRA is administered once quarterly via subcutaneous injection.

About Transthyretin Amyloidosis (ATTR)

Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is an underdiagnosed, rapidly progressive, debilitating, and fatal disease caused by pathogenic transthyretin (TTR) proteins, which accumulate as amyloid deposits in various parts of the body, including the nerves, heart, and gastrointestinal tract. Patients may present with polyneuropathy, cardiomyopathy, or both manifestations of disease. There are two different forms of ATTR – hereditary ATTR (hATTR), which is caused by a TTR gene variant, and wild-type ATTR (wtATTR), which occurs without a TTR gene variant. It is estimated that more than 500,000 people worldwide live with ATTR, with ~80% remaining undiagnosed.

About Zilebesiran

Zilebesiran is an investigational, subcutaneously administered RNAi therapeutic in development for cardiovascular (CV) risk reduction in hypertensive patients at high risk or with established CVD. Zilebesiran targets angiotensinogen (AGT), the most upstream precursor in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which plays a role in blood pressure (BP) regulation and impacts CV and renal health. Clinical trial results have shown the potential for zilebesiran to provide continuous control of BP with biannual dosing in a broad population of patients with hypertension. Zilebesiran is being evaluated in a Phase 3 CV outcomes trial, ZENITH, which will assess its ability to reduce the risk of CV death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or heart failure events in patients with hypertension and established or at high risk of CVD, despite the use of at least two or more antihypertensives. The safety and efficacy of zilebesiran have not been established or evaluated by the FDA, EMA, or any other health authority. Zilebesiran is being co-developed and co-commercialized by Alnylam and Roche.

About Cardiovascular Disease and Hypertension

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a global health crisis and a leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for approximately 20 million deaths annually. Hypertension is the primary cause of and number one modifiable risk factor for CVD. An estimated one in three adults worldwide have hypertension, and despite wide availability of antihypertensives, up to 80% of all patients, and up to one-third of treated patients, do not reach and maintain blood pressure (BP) targets. Even when BP appears well-managed, continuous control of BP may remain suboptimal, leading to variability in BP during the 24-hour period and in the long-term, putting patients at greater risk of cardiovascular events and end organ damage.

About RNAi

RNAi (RNA interference) is a natural cellular process of gene silencing that represents one of the most promising and rapidly advancing frontiers in biology and drug development today. Its discovery has been heralded as “a major scientific breakthrough that happens once every decade or so,” and was recognized with the award of the 2006 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine. By harnessing the natural biological process of RNAi occurring in our cells, a new class of medicines known as RNAi therapeutics is now a reality. Small interfering RNA (siRNA), the molecules that mediate RNAi and comprise Alnylam’s RNAi therapeutic platform, function upstream of today’s medicines by potently silencing messenger RNA (mRNA) – the genetic precursors – that encode for disease-causing or disease pathway proteins, thus preventing them from being made. This is a revolutionary approach with the potential to transform the care of patients with genetic and other diseases.

About Alnylam Pharmaceuticals

Alnylam (Nasdaq: ALNY) is a leading global biopharmaceutical company and the pioneer of the RNA interference (RNAi) revolution. The Company is focused on developing transformative therapies with the potential to prevent, halt, or reverse disease. For more than two decades, Alnylam has advanced the Nobel-Prize-winning science of RNAi, delivering critical breakthroughs and six approved medicines. Alnylam has medicines available in more than 70 countries and a rapidly expanding and robust pipeline, in addition to consistently being recognized as an exceptional workplace and socially responsible organization. The Company is executing on its Alnylam 2030 strategy to accelerate innovation and scale impact to transform human health. Alnylam routinely posts information that may be important to investors in the “Investors” section of its website at https://investors.alnylam.com/. Investors and potential investors are encouraged to consult the Alnylam website regularly.

Alnylam Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding Alnylam’s expectations, beliefs, goals, plans or prospects including, without limitation, statements regarding the potential efficacy or safety of vutrisiran for the treatment of ATTR CM, including in combination with a stabilizer; the potential clinical benefit that can be achieved by reducing TTR production at its source across patient populations, treatment settings and manifestations of disease; the potential for AMVUTTRA to be a first-line treatment for ATTR-CM; the potential for zilebesiran to extend the precision and durability of RNAi, and to provide continuous control of blood pressure with biannual dosing, in patients with uncontrolled hypertension; Alnylam’s ability to make a transformational impact on cardiovascular care and to change the course of cardiovascular disease for patients with high unmet need; and Alnylam’s ability to execute on its Alnylam 2030 strategy to accelerate innovation and scale impact to transform human health. Actual results and future plans may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of various important risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties relating to: Alnylam’s ability to successfully execute on its Alnylam 2030 strategy; Alnylam’s ability to successfully launch, market and sell Alnylam’s approved products globally, including AMVUTTRA; Alnylam’s ability to discover and develop novel drug candidates and delivery approaches and successfully demonstrate the efficacy and safety of its product candidates; the pre-clinical and clinical results for Alnylam’s product candidates; actions or advice of regulatory agencies and Alnylam’s ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval for its product candidates, as well as favorable pricing and reimbursement; delays, interruptions or failures in the manufacture and supply of Alnylam’s marketed products or its product candidates; obtaining, maintaining and protecting intellectual property; Alnylam’s ability to manage its growth and operating expenses through disciplined investment in operations; Alnylam’s ability to maintain strategic business collaborations; Alnylam’s dependence on third parties for the development and commercialization of certain products; the outcome of litigation and government investigations; the risk of future litigation and government investigations; and unexpected expenditures; as well as those risks and uncertainties more fully discussed in the “Risk Factors” filed with Alnylam’s 2025 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), as may be updated from time to time in Alnylam’s subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and in other filings that Alnylam makes with the SEC. Alnylam explicitly disclaims any obligation, except to the extent required by law, to update any forward-looking statements.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260829551848/en/

Key Takeaways American Eagle's Q2 revenues are expected to rise 6.8% to $1.37B, while EPS is seen falling 53.3%.Aerie and OFFLINE momentum, fresh assortments and stronger engagement are expected to support demand.Tariffs, markdowns on women's bottoms and higher ad spending may weigh on second-quarter profitability. American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (AEO - Free Report) is expected to register growth in its top line when it reports second-quarter fiscal 2026 results on Sept. 9, after market close. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $1.37 billion, which indicates a rise of 6.5% from the year-ago figure.

The consensus estimate for quarterly earnings is pegged at 21 cents per share, indicating a 53.3% decline from the year-ago quarter's number. However, the consensus estimate for earnings has remained stable in the past 30 days.

The company’s earnings beat the consensus estimate by 27.3% in the last reported quarter. AEO delivered an earnings surprise of 48.6% in the trailing four quarters, on average.

Things to Know About AEO’s Upcoming ResultsAEO’s second-quarter performance is likely to have benefited from continued momentum at Aerie and OFFLINE, supported by healthy demand across product categories and selling channels. Aerie’s strength appears to be broad-based, reflecting compelling assortments, stronger brand visibility and deep customer engagement. The brand’s head-to-toe merchandising approach across intimates, sleepwear and apparel has also encouraged customers to build complete outfits, while disciplined promotions and targeted pricing strategies have supported healthier selling trends. OFFLINE has remained another important growth driver, with customers responding well to fresh silhouettes, coordinated sets, new fabrications and curated product drops.

At the American Eagle brand, improving trends in several categories may also have supported the quarter. Men’s apparel has maintained momentum across tops and bottoms, while women’s fashion tops and tees have continued to attract customers. Management also noted encouraging signs of improvement in the women’s business as the quarter progressed, aided by quick merchandising adjustments and a sharper focus on styles and fits showing stronger demand. The company’s ability to chase winning products and introduce fresh assortments could have helped it respond more effectively to changing customer preferences during the summer selling period.

AEO’s elevated marketing efforts and customer-engagement initiatives are another factor likely to have aided demand. Across American Eagle and Aerie, the company has been investing in campaigns, influencer programs, creator communities and entertainment partnerships designed to strengthen brand awareness and attract both new and existing customers. American Eagle has also been shifting its focus toward improving conversion, while digital engagement showed encouraging momentum heading into the quarter. Meanwhile, the opening of the company’s new West Coast distribution center should support better inventory placement and fulfillment flexibility, strengthening AEO’s ability to serve demand across stores and digital channels.

Nevertheless, several pressures may have weighed on second-quarter profitability. American Eagle entered the period with softness in women’s bottoms, particularly denim, and management expected additional markdown activity as it worked to clear less productive merchandise and improve inventory quality ahead of the key back-to-school season. Tariffs also represented a meaningful cost headwind compared with the prior year, while continued spending on advertising was expected to increase operating expenses. In addition, management acknowledged a competitive and fluid retail environment, making disciplined execution, product relevance and effective promotional management especially important for preserving margins.

Our model predicts second-quarter fiscal 2026 total revenues to increase 6.2% year over year. We expect sales for the American Eagle brand to decline 1%. Sales for the Aerie brand are expected to increase by 19.4%.

What the Zacks Model Unveils for AEOOur proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for American Eagle this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. But this is not the case here.

American Eagle currently has an Earnings ESP of -4.00% and a Zacks Rank of 2. You can uncover the best stocks before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.

AEO’s Valuation Picture & Price PerformanceWith a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 9.55X, below the high level of 18.29X and the Retail - Apparel and Shoes industry’s average of 13.05X, the stock offers compelling value for investors seeking exposure to the sector.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

AEO stock has lost 21.9% in the past six months compared with the industry’s 17.5% decline.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Stocks With the Favorable CombinationHere are three companies, which, according to our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this season:

Victoria's Secret (VSXY - Free Report) has an Earnings ESP of +5.20% and currently sports a Zacks Rank of 1. The company is likely to register growth in the top and bottom lines when it reports second-quarter fiscal 2026 results. The consensus mark for VSXY’s quarterly revenues is pegged at $1.6 billion, which indicates an 11.2% rise from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

The consensus mark for VXSY’s quarterly earnings has moved up by a penny in the past 30 days to 77 cents per share. The consensus estimate indicates a significant 133% rise from the year-ago quarter’s actual. VSXY has an average trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 81.9%.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST - Free Report) currently has an Earnings ESP of +1.45% and a Zacks Rank of 3. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its upcoming quarter’s revenues is pegged at $94.46 billion, indicating a 9.6% rise from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.

The consensus estimate for Costco’s earnings is pegged at $6.51 per share, implying 10.9% growth from the year-ago quarter. COST delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 1%, on average.

Deckers Outdoors Corporation (DECK - Free Report) currently has an Earnings ESP of +1.60% and a Zacks Rank of 3. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its upcoming quarter’s revenues is pegged at $1.5 billion, indicating a 5.6% rise from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.

The consensus estimate for Costco’s earnings is pegged at $1.8 per share, implying a 1.1% decline from the year-ago quarter. DECK delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 15.2%, on average.

BlackRock Inc. acquired a new stake in California Water Service Group (NYSE:CWT – Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund acquired 10,755,498 shares of the utilities provider’s stock, valued at approximately $523,255,000. BlackRock Inc. owned approximately 17.39% of California Water Service Group at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of CWT. Amundi boosted its holdings in shares of California Water Service Group by 26.7% in the first quarter. Amundi now owns 3,470,997 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $157,421,000 after acquiring an additional 732,004 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp bought a new stake in shares of California Water Service Group during the 2nd quarter valued at $25,642,000. Millennium Management LLC lifted its holdings in California Water Service Group by 5,365.1% during the 3rd quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 368,074 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $16,891,000 after purchasing an additional 361,339 shares in the last quarter. ExodusPoint Capital Management LP bought a new position in California Water Service Group in the 4th quarter worth about $10,349,000. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership boosted its stake in California Water Service Group by 416.9% in the 1st quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 257,970 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $11,696,000 after purchasing an additional 208,061 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 82.78% of the company’s stock.

Insider Buying and Selling at California Water Service Group In other news, Director Lester A. Snow sold 1,100 shares of California Water Service Group stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $44.00, for a total transaction of $48,400.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 18,316 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $805,904. The trade was a 5.67% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, Director Thomas M. Krummel sold 3,700 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $50.37, for a total transaction of $186,369.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 20,104 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $1,012,638.48. This trade represents a 15.54% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Company insiders own 0.78% of the company’s stock.

California Water Service Group Price Performance Shares of NYSE CWT opened at $50.88 on Tuesday. The stock’s 50-day simple moving average is $49.47 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $46.57. California Water Service Group has a twelve month low of $41.29 and a twelve month high of $53.82. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.15 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.92, a P/E/G ratio of 1.76 and a beta of 0.50. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.81. California Water Service Group (NYSE:CWT – Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 30th. The utilities provider reported $0.93 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.80 by $0.13. The firm had revenue of $308.60 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $283.50 million. California Water Service Group had a return on equity of 7.74% and a net margin of 12.63%.The company’s revenue for the quarter was up 16.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.71 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that California Water Service Group will post 2.57 EPS for the current fiscal year.

California Water Service Group Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 21st. Stockholders of record on Monday, August 10th were given a dividend of $0.335 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, August 10th. This represents a $1.34 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.6%. California Water Service Group’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 60.36%.

Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research analysts have weighed in on CWT shares. Wall Street Zen raised California Water Service Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a report on Saturday, July 18th. Weiss Ratings raised shares of California Water Service Group from a “hold (c)” rating to a “hold (c+)” rating in a report on Tuesday, August 4th. Robert W. Baird set a $54.00 price objective on shares of California Water Service Group in a research note on Friday, May 1st. Finally, Seaport Research Partners reaffirmed a “buy” rating and set a $53.00 price objective on shares of California Water Service Group in a research note on Wednesday, August 12th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, California Water Service Group presently has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $54.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on California Water Service Group

(Free Report)

California Water Service Group (NYSE: CWT) is a publicly traded holding company that provides regulated water utility services through its subsidiaries. The company delivers safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater management to residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers across California, Hawaii and New Mexico. Its principal operating units include California Water Service, New Mexico Water Service and Hawaii Water Service, each responsible for end‐to‐end water supply operations—from source development and treatment to distribution and customer service.

Founded in 1926 as the California Water Service Company, the group has grown to become one of the largest investor‐owned water utilities in the United States by customer count.

Further Reading Five stocks we like better than California Water Service Group Visa Just Put Hims & Hers in the Penalty Box—Here’s Why It Matters Treasury Yields Are Surging Again: 3 Stocks That Could Feel the Pain Snowflake Could Be Headed for New Highs Despite Insider Selling MongoDB Is Surging—And the Next Catalyst Is Almost Here Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CWT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for California Water Service Group (NYSE:CWT – Free Report).

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It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Itron (ITRI - Free Report) . Shares have lost about 3.4% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.

But investors have to be wondering, will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Itron due for a breakout? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at the most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important catalysts.

Itron’s Q2 Earnings Top EstimatesItron reported non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $1.59 for second-quarter 2026, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 22.3%. The company reported earnings of $1.62 per share in the prior-year quarter. The decline was primarily caused by lower interest income and a higher effective tax rate, which was moderated by growing non-GAAP operating income.

Itron generated second-quarter revenue of $563 million, down 7% year over year. The decline was largely attributable to weakness in the Networked Solutions segment, where revenue fell 17% because of project deployment timing and lower shipment volumes. This slowdown appears to be timing-related rather than demand-driven, as utilities continue investing heavily in grid modernization. Although headline revenue fell short of expectations, the underlying demand environment remains healthy, supported by increasing investments in grid resilience, electrification and infrastructure modernization.

The most encouraging takeaway was management's decision to raise its earnings guidance for 2026. Itron now forecasts non-GAAP EPS between $6.3 and $6.5, up from the prior view of $5.75-$6.25. The higher earnings outlook reflects continued strength in margin expansion, operational execution, demand from utility customers and integration of recent acquisitions. The company reaffirmed its full-year revenue outlook, narrowing the range to $2.37-$2.41 billion, with midpoint growth of 1% year over year. Revenue is expected to be back-end loaded, with second-half revenue projected to grow about 8% year over year and sequentially, consistent with prior expectations.

Product revenues were $453.5 million (80.6% of total revenues), down 12.3% year over year. Service revenues totaled $109.4 million (19.4%), up 22.2%.

At quarter-end, total backlog was $4.4 billion, only slightly below last year's $4.5 billion. Quarterly bookings totaled $550 million, demonstrating continued customer demand despite quarterly revenue fluctuations.

Segments in DetailDevice Solutions (19.8% of total revenues): Revenue declined 1% (3% in constant currency or cc) to $111.4 million primarily due to lower legacy electricity product sales.

Networked Solutions (60.3%): Revenues dipped 17% to $339.2 million, primarily due to the timing of project deployments.

Outcomes (17.1%): Revenues rose 13% to $96.4 million, driven by growth in recurring and services revenue.

Resiliency Solutions (2.8%): Sales, bolstered by the Urbint and Locusview acquisitions, contributed $16 million, with integration progressing according to plan.

Margin Strength Highlights Operational ImprovementsAdjusted gross margin expanded to 41.4%, representing an impressive 460 basis-point improvement over the prior-year period. The margin expansion was driven by improved customer mix, higher-margin product mix, operational efficiencies and better execution across manufacturing and supply chains.

Non-GAAP operating expenses were $144 million, up from $141.4 million a year ago, reflecting the impact of the Urbint and Locusview acquisitions.

Non-GAAP operating income rose to $89 million from $82.2 million a year ago, as stronger gross profit more than offset higher operating expenses.

Balance Sheet & Cash FlowsAs of June 30, 2026, cash and cash equivalents totaled $745.2 million compared with $1.1 billion as of March 31, 2026. Accounts receivable were $351.1 million.

As of June 30, net long-term debt was $1.6 billion, the same as of March 31.

Second-quarter operating cash flow reached $88 million compared with $97 million last year. Free cash flow totaled $81 million, down from $91 million. The decline mainly reflected higher tax payments and lower interest income. These were partially offset by favorable working-capital timing.

During the quarter, Itron repurchased $52 million of its shares through open-market buybacks under its existing share repurchase program.

Q3 2026 OutlookFor the third quarter of 2026, it expects revenues to be between $590 million and $600 million, up 2% year over year at the midpoint.

Non-GAAP EPS is anticipated to be in the range of $1.5-$1.6, with about a 1% rise at the midpoint from last year.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?Since the earnings release, investors have witnessed a upward trend in fresh estimates.

VGM ScoresAt this time, Itron has a average Growth Score of C, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with an F. However, the stock was allocated a grade of A on the value side, putting it in the top 20% for value investors.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. It comes with little surprise Itron has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). We expect an above average return from the stock in the next few months.

Hyperliquid (HYPE) price is trading around $80.00 on Monday, maintaining a constructive bias with steady institutional inflows of over $50 million last week. On-chain data show elevated trading volume and revenue over the last two weeks, while retail speculation eases as HYPE futures Open Interest declines. The technical outlook is mixed as bullish momentum wanes. 

Retail sentiment shifts as institutional, network demand holds steadyHyperliquid is gaining institutional interest amid elevated network demand. SoSoValue data shows that the HYPE Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) recorded five consecutive days of inflows, totaling $56.86 million last week and $66.33 million so far this month. 

HYPE ETFs data. Source: SosovalueOn the platform side, Hyperliquid Analytics recorded $61.93 billion in total volume last week, with $16.45 million in revenue, down from the previous week’s $88.68 billion in volume and $21.27 million in revenue. Though the data shows an easing in Hyperliquid metrics, the long-term trend reflects elevated network activity. 

Hyperliquid total revenue data. Source: Hyperscreener.On the retail side, HYPE futures Open Interest (OI) is down 5% over the last 24 hours to $3.27 billion, indicating reduced notional value of active contracts or positional wipeout. Total liquidation of $3.98 million in the same period, led by long liquidation of $3.43 million, reaffirms the contraction in active long positions. The OI-weighted funding rate of 0.0085% indicates a persistent bullish bias among traders, willing to buy high-risk long positions at a premium. 

HYPE derivatives data. Source: CoinGlassTechnical outlook: Will HYPE price extend gains above $80?Hyperliquid trades at $80.14 at press time on Monday, holding steady after a 4% drop the previous day. HYPE sustains a bullish near-term bias as price holds well above the major Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs). The 50-day EMA at $66.94, the 100-day EMA at $61.93, and the 200-day EMA at $54.61 all trail the advance, hinting at a firmly supported uptrend.

From a technical perspective, HYPE remains capped below the 127.2% Fibonacci extension level of the downswing from $76.93 to $51.20 at $83.93. A confirmed breakout above this level could extend the rally toward the 161.8% Fibonacci extension at $92.83.

Momentum eases but remains constructive on the daily chart, with the Relative Strength Index (RSI) easing from the overbought zone to 64, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is sloping toward the signal line as the bullish histogram profile wanes, suggesting reduced upside pressure.

HYPE/USD daily price chart.On the downside, initial support emerges around the prior Fibonacci cycle high at $76.93, ahead of a dense retracement cluster between the 78.60% level at $71.42 and the 50-day EMA at $66.94.

(The technical analysis of this story was written with the help of an AI tool. Know more.)

Crypto projects spent approximately $638 million repurchasing their native tokens between January and Aug. 31, according to Allium Labs figures cited by the Financial Times.

Summary

Crypto projects spent $638 million on token buybacks this year, exceeding last year’s comparable total. Hyperliquid and Pump.fun represented nearly 90% of tracked repurchases, according to Allium Labs data overall. Hyperliquid directs 99% of eligible trading fees toward automated HYPE purchases and permanent token burns. Sky spent $26 million on 2026 repurchases, while its cumulative program remains considerably larger overall. Lido’s proposed framework activates buybacks only above revenue thresholds and limits annual purchases to $10 million. The total increased 17% from the $545 million recorded during the corresponding period in 2025. Projects spent only $366,000 across all of 2024, showing how quickly revenue-funded token repurchases have become part of decentralized finance.

Hyperliquid and Pump.fun accounted for nearly 90% of the 2026 total. Their dominance means the broader increase does not represent uniform adoption across the crypto market.

The annual figure also differs from cumulative buyback totals. Hyperliquid’s reported $1.3 billion covers purchases since its late-2024 launch, while the $638 million figure counts buybacks completed during 2026 by multiple projects.

Hyperliquid dominates crypto token buybacks Hyperliquid operates the largest revenue-funded repurchase program included in the dataset. The derivatives platform routes 99% of eligible trading fees to its Assistance Fund, according to its protocol documentation.

Crypto Projects Buy Back $638 Million in Native Tokens This Year; Hyperliquid and Pumpfun Account for Nearly 90%

According to the Financial Times, digital asset projects have bought back approximately $638 million worth of their own tokens so far this year, up from $545 million… pic.twitter.com/jTWVduwheh

— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) August 31, 2026 The system converts trading fees into HYPE through automated purchases executed as part of Hyperliquid’s layer-1 operations. Purchased tokens are then burned, permanently removing them from supply.

Hyperliquid has reportedly bought and cancelled about $1.3 billion in HYPE since launching in December 2024. That cumulative number should not be added to the $638 million annual total because the two figures cover different measurement periods.

HYPE traded near $63.35 on Aug. 31. The token had gained approximately 70% over the previous year, according to the Financial Times. Buybacks may have supported demand, but they cannot be isolated from trading growth, user activity and broader market sentiment.

An earlier examination of Hyperliquid’s automated fee-funded repurchase system found that the Assistance Fund had accumulated roughly 28.5 million HYPE by May. The analysis placed its annualized buyback rate near 7% of market capitalization at the prevailing revenue level.

Pump.fun supplies the second major buyback engine Pump.fun uses revenue from its token launchpad, PumpSwap exchange and trading products to purchase PUMP. Its current mechanism commits 50% of designated revenue to token buybacks and burns through a locked smart contract.

During the week ending Aug. 9, the platform spent approximately $5.02 million buying and burning 2.15 billion PUMP. Its cumulative program had offset an estimated 15.7% of the token’s original supply by that point.

The purchases have continued alongside scheduled token releases. In July, Pump.fun distributed $86.49 million in vested PUMP to 121 team and investor wallets. Buybacks reduce supply, while unlocks make previously restricted tokens transferable. The two forces therefore work in opposite directions.

PUMP traded near $0.0015 on Aug. 31. Its performance shows why repurchases should not be treated as guaranteed price support. Platform revenue, token unlocks, investor confidence and demand can outweigh the buying program.

Sky and Lido follow different models Sky Protocol bought approximately $26 million of SKY during 2026, according to Allium’s annual dataset. Its cumulative buyback spending is considerably higher because the Smart Burn Engine began operating before this year.

Sky’s official dashboard describes the mechanism as an onchain system that uses protocol surplus to purchase SKY from the open market. Governance reduced the buyback rate in March by lowering individual purchase sizes and lengthening the interval between transactions.

Sky also says staking rewards are financed through open-market purchases rather than new token issuance. That structure connects protocol surplus with token demand without increasing SKY’s maximum supply.

Lido’s proposed NEST framework is more conditional. Buybacks would activate when annualized revenue exceeds $40 million. The original proposal also required ETH to trade above $3,000, although later discussions considered disabling that separate price floor.

The framework would allocate 50% of staking revenue above the $40 million baseline to LDO purchases. It includes a $50,000 daily limit and a $10 million rolling 12-month cap. These are governance parameters rather than guaranteed spending commitments.

Buybacks cannot guarantee higher token prices Token buybacks create a recurring buyer and can reduce circulating supply when purchased assets are burned. Unlike corporate shares, however, governance tokens do not necessarily provide ownership, dividends or legal claims over protocol assets.

The effects also depend on execution. Tokens held in a treasury may eventually return to circulation, while permanently burned tokens cannot. Projects may change or discontinue discretionary programs through governance decisions.

Recent results have been mixed. Hyperliquid has combined strong revenue with positive HYPE performance, while several other tokens remained under pressure despite recurring purchases. Crypto analyst Ansem previously argued that buybacks cannot overcome weak community alignment or declining demand.

The next test is whether fee revenue remains strong enough to fund purchases during weaker trading periods. Investors should also track whether repurchased tokens are burned, held or redistributed and compare annual purchases with new emissions and insider unlocks.

Shares of AI server-maker Super Micro Computer (SMCI -3.59%) rallied 9.4% on Tuesday. The company received a big boost in confidence as enterprise data center infrastructure giant Cisco (CSCO -1.98%) announced it would partner with the server maker on liquid-cooled, rack-scale AI solutions.

That validation is especially valuable for Super Micro, which has long been at the forefront of server technology but has more recently garnered skepticism over corporate governance issues.

Premium Feature

Moneyball Superscore

65/100

Today's Change

(

-3.59

%) $

-1.38

Current Price

$

37.08

Cisco gives a super stamp of approval It should be noted that today's big jump clawed back the significant decline in Super Micro's stock yesterday. On top of Monday being a tough day for the overall AI semiconductor sector, Super Micro's stock fell especially hard after Taiwanese Authorities indicted two Super Micro employees for attempting to redirect Super Micro AI servers to China, in violation of U.S. export restrictions. Super Micro employees weren't the only ones involved; the indictments targeted nine individuals, including one Nvidia (NVDA -4.58%) employee.

The recent indictments follow accusations that Super Micro has been playing fast and loose on other issues, including accounting compliance and corporate governance, since mid-2024.

Super Micro appears to have put most issues behind it, having secured a new auditor who signed off on its books in 2025. Furthermore, Super Micro noted that it was not a defendant in the recent server-smuggling scheme and that it has been working with authorities to help stop third-party smuggling.

Nevertheless, the "smoke" from all these issues appears to have made many investors cautious about Super Micro shares, which trade at a big discount to peers despite a recent massive earnings beat and strong forward guidance.

That's perhaps why Cisco's "seal of approval," so to speak, carries so much weight today. According to today's press release, Cisco is adding Super Micro's liquid-cooled Nvidia AI racks to its Secure AI Factory architecture portfolio, an approved list of AI solutions built with Cisco's secure compliance approval.

Cisco is a giant, longtime infrastructure provider to the biggest enterprises in the world, so its adding Super Micro liquid-cooled racks to its approved product list carries a lot of weight in validating Super Micro's technology, time-to-market execution, and compliance bona fides.

Image source: Getty Images.

Super Micro remains a cheap way to play AI growth Super Micro trades at a massive discount to peers such as Dell Technologies (DELL -3.39%), despite both being AI server producers and each having similar growth profiles.

SMCI PE Ratio (Forward) data by YCharts

No doubt, concerns over Super Micro's governance play a large role in this yawning discount; however, today's announcement shows Super Micro remains a go-to hardware provider for the biggest companies in AI infrastructure. If you feel comfortable that the corporate governance concerns are overblown, the stock looks like a massive bargain and the cheapest way to play the AI boom -- of course, that's a big "if."

BlackRock Inc. bought a new position in shares of AutoNation, Inc. (NYSE:AN – Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 2,361,210 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $438,689,000. BlackRock Inc. owned 7.14% of AutoNation at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC lifted its holdings in AutoNation by 27.1% during the fourth quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC now owns 57,269 shares of the company’s stock valued at $11,825,000 after purchasing an additional 12,210 shares in the last quarter. WINTON GROUP Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of AutoNation during the fourth quarter worth about $6,443,000. Evolve Private Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in shares of AutoNation during the fourth quarter worth about $4,077,000. Intech Investment Management LLC raised its position in shares of AutoNation by 180.1% during the 4th quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC now owns 13,206 shares of the company’s stock worth $2,727,000 after purchasing an additional 8,491 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Leonteq Securities AG acquired a new position in shares of AutoNation during the 4th quarter worth about $2,247,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 94.62% of the company’s stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on AN shares. Stephens lifted their price objective on AutoNation from $220.00 to $232.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a report on Monday, August 10th. Northcoast Research raised AutoNation from a “neutral” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $240.00 target price for the company in a report on Tuesday, July 14th. Seaport Research Partners restated a “buy” rating and issued a $255.00 target price on shares of AutoNation in a research report on Monday, August 3rd. Barclays boosted their price target on AutoNation from $255.00 to $260.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 15th. Finally, Weiss Ratings upgraded AutoNation from a “buy (b-)” rating to a “buy (b)” rating in a report on Monday, August 17th. Ten research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $250.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on AutoNation Insider Activity at AutoNation In related news, Director Lisa Lutoff-Perlo sold 900 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, August 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $220.00, for a total value of $198,000.00. Following the sale, the director directly owned 7,989 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,757,580. The trade was a 10.12% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. 1.40% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

AutoNation Price Performance Shares of AN stock opened at $196.55 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.68, a current ratio of 0.78 and a quick ratio of 0.18. The company has a market capitalization of $6.50 billion, a PE ratio of 9.10, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.71. The firm’s 50-day moving average is $200.66 and its two-hundred day moving average is $197.57. AutoNation, Inc. has a 12 month low of $176.62 and a 12 month high of $235.81.

AutoNation (NYSE:AN – Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, July 31st. The company reported $5.56 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $5.48 by $0.08. AutoNation had a net margin of 2.82% and a return on equity of 31.24%. The business had revenue of $6.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $7 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $2.26 EPS. The business’s revenue for the quarter was down .6% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts predict that AutoNation, Inc. will post 21.69 earnings per share for the current year.

About AutoNation (Free Report)

AutoNation, Inc is the largest automotive retailer in the United States, operating a network of franchised new vehicle dealerships, pre-owned vehicle superstores and collision-repair centers. The company offers a comprehensive range of automotive products and services, including the sale of new cars and light trucks from leading manufacturers, certified pre-owned vehicles and a wide selection of used models. In addition to retail vehicle sales, AutoNation provides financing, insurance and extended service contracts through its in-house financial services division, as well as genuine and aftermarket parts, factory-recommended maintenance and collision-repair services.

Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, AutoNation was founded in 1996 by entrepreneur H.

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US President Donald Trump’s meme coin just rewarded $1 million worth of tokens to 10 American businesses. It was part of the America First Business Challenge, which ran for nearly 3 months. 

The competition was announced back in April at the President’s Mar-a-Lago crypto conferences. Around 616 businesses applied for it, and 36 were approved. Now, 10 of them are walking away with a million dollars.

This could be the first time a meme coin was used for a business grant at such scale. But there’s a big twist here.

Back in April, the 36 businesses had to buy the TRUMP meme coin before they were eligible for the grant. So, buy TRUMP and then get TRUMP back in rewards?

America First Business Challenge. Source: WebsiteThe pot is split into one award of $250,000, six of $100,000, and three of $50,000. No winner gave up a share of their company.

There was one condition on voting. Participants had to connect a crypto wallet that held TRUMP. That turned the contest into a reason to buy. Ahead of the Mar-a-Lago event that launched it, whale wallets holding TRUMP climbed to a five-month high.

Today, we’re proud to announce that we awarded $1 million in $TRUMP to 10 incredible American businesses through the America First Challenge — all as non-equity grants.

Supporting American businesses doing great things for America. 🇺🇸

Learn more: https://t.co/9foB8YtIiZ

— TrumpMeme (@GetTrumpMemes) August 26, 2026
Follow us on X to get the latest news as it happens

The Coin’s Own Website Denies It Has Any UseGetTrumpMemes.com calls TRUMP an expression of support, not an investment. It states the token has no payment function and no commercial integration.

“Trump Memes are intended to function as an expression of support for, and engagement with, the ideals and beliefs embodied by the symbol “$TRUMP” and the associated artwork, and are not intended to be, or to be the subject of, an investment opportunity, investment contract, or security of any type.”

Read plainly, that rules out spending it. A winner cannot pay staff or a supplier in TRUMP. To use the grant, they have to sell it.

Selling means competing with a lot of future supply. Only 250.9 million tokens circulate out of a 1 billion cap, so roughly 75% has yet to arrive.

Two companies control most of it. CIC Digital LLC, a Trump Organization affiliate, and Fight Fight Fight LLC hold 80% on a three-year unlock. Both also collect trading fees.

The Last TRUMP Contest Ended With Holders SellingThis is not the first prize the coin has dangled. In May 2025, the top 220 holders won a dinner with Trump.

Investors spent more than $145 million buying the token to compete. Then 26 members of Congress wrote to the Justice Department.

“After the contest closed, at least 34 of the top 220 investors sold most of their meme coin holdings, further confirming that the $TRUMP meme coin is not a worthwhile investment, but rather a vehicle to buy influence with the Trump Administration,” read the lawmakers’ letter dated May 22, 2025.

Organizers frame the challenge differently. Their launch pitch was money for founders outside venture networks.

The same letter puts insider trading fees above $320 million since launch. The grant pool is worth less than one three-hundredth of that.

Scale tells a similar story. TRUMP turns over about $642 million a day in trading volume, so the entire $1 million fits within roughly two minutes of trading. The price is moving fast, too. TRUMP trades near $2.74, up 25% in the last 24 hours.

Official Trump (TRUMP) Price Performance. Source: BeInCryptoEven so, the TRUMP token’s price chart sits 96.3% below its January 2025 peak. It touched an all-time low of $1.37 on August 13. The rally began before the grants were announced, not after.

A key detail is still missing. Nobody has named the 10 winners, so no transfer on Solana can be matched to any business.

Until those names appear, the case for utility rests on a social media post. The real test is simpler than the debate. Can one of these 10 companies actually spend what it won?

Bank of New York Mellon Corp bought a new stake in Polaris Inc. (NYSE:PII – Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 639,691 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $43,780,000. Bank of New York Mellon Corp owned about 1.12% of Polaris at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Kemnay Advisory Services Inc. acquired a new stake in Polaris in the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Danske Bank A S lifted its stake in shares of Polaris by 150.0% during the fourth quarter. Danske Bank A S now owns 500 shares of the company’s stock worth $32,000 after purchasing an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. Elevation Wealth Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of Polaris by 471.0% during the second quarter. Elevation Wealth Partners LLC now owns 571 shares of the company’s stock worth $39,000 after purchasing an additional 471 shares in the last quarter. Bard Associates Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Polaris during the fourth quarter worth approximately $46,000. Finally, Hilton Head Capital Partners LLC bought a new position in Polaris in the 4th quarter worth approximately $52,000. 88.06% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Polaris Trading Up 0.2% NYSE PII opened at $63.90 on Friday. Polaris Inc. has a 1-year low of $47.14 and a 1-year high of $77.98. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.28. The company has a market capitalization of $3.64 billion, a PE ratio of -13.80 and a beta of 1.26. The firm’s fifty day simple moving average is $68.81 and its 200-day simple moving average is $64.14.

Polaris (NYSE:PII – Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 28th. The company reported $1.97 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.76 by $1.21. Polaris had a negative net margin of 3.50% and a positive return on equity of 16.77%. The firm had revenue of $2.02 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.95 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned ($1.39) earnings per share. The company’s revenue for the quarter was up 9.2% on a year-over-year basis. Polaris has set its FY 2026 guidance at 3.000-3.100 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Polaris Inc. will post 3.22 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Polaris Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 1st will be paid a $0.68 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, September 1st. This represents a $2.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.3%. Polaris’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently -58.75%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth PII has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Polaris from a “sell (d)” rating to a “sell (d+)” rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 29th. Roth Capital reissued a “neutral” rating on shares of Polaris in a report on Wednesday, July 29th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on Polaris from $65.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 29th. Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price target on Polaris from $65.00 to $75.00 and gave the company a “sector perform” rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 29th. Finally, Citigroup lifted their price target on Polaris from $70.00 to $73.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a research report on Thursday, July 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has assigned a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $67.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on PII

Polaris Company Profile (Free Report)

Polaris Inc, founded in 1954 and headquartered in Medina, Minnesota, is a diversified manufacturer of powersports vehicles and related products. Initially gaining prominence with its snowmobiles, Polaris expanded its portfolio over the decades to include all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), side-by-side off-road vehicles, and motorcycles. The company’s legacy in recreational and utility vehicle innovation stems from early engineering breakthroughs that established Polaris as a leading name in off-road mobility.

Today, Polaris offers a broad range of products under well-known brands such as Polaris RANGER and POLARIS SPORTSMAN for utility and recreation markets, Slingshot three-wheel roadsters for on-road enthusiasts, and the Indian Motorcycle brand for premium two-wheeled touring and cruiser segments.

Featured Articles Five stocks we like better than Polaris Nutanix’s Rally Has a Bigger Story Than Earnings as AMD’s AI Bet Takes Shape SEC Probe Puts Wall Street Leverage Risk Back in Focus A Bearish-Dollar Options Surge Raises the Stakes for Warsh at Jackson Hole Five Below’s Turnaround Is Working—But Has the Stock Run Too Far? Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PII? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Polaris Inc. (NYSE:PII – Free Report).

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Canada Pension Plan Investment Board purchased a new position in Stifel Financial Corporation (NYSE:SF – Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 93,950 shares of the financial services provider’s stock, valued at approximately $6,555,000. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board owned about 0.06% of Stifel Financial as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of SF. Activest Wealth Management grew its position in shares of Stifel Financial by 12,000.0% in the fourth quarter. Activest Wealth Management now owns 242 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 240 shares during the period. Advisory Services Network LLC purchased a new stake in Stifel Financial during the third quarter valued at about $29,000. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd purchased a new stake in Stifel Financial during the fourth quarter valued at about $34,000. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. purchased a new stake in Stifel Financial during the fourth quarter worth approximately $50,000. Finally, BOKF NA lifted its stake in shares of Stifel Financial by 1,626.9% during the third quarter. BOKF NA now owns 449 shares of the financial services provider’s stock worth $51,000 after purchasing an additional 423 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.01% of the company’s stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Stifel Financial from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Sunday, August 9th. Weiss Ratings restated a “buy (b-)” rating on shares of Stifel Financial in a research note on Wednesday. UBS Group set a $90.00 price objective on Stifel Financial in a report on Thursday, July 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of Stifel Financial from $80.00 to $86.00 and gave the stock a “neutral” rating in a report on Thursday, July 23rd. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded Stifel Financial from a “strong sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 20th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Stifel Financial presently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $91.90.

Read Our Latest Research Report on SF Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, Director Maryam S. Brown sold 4,700 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $79.20, for a total value of $372,240.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 5,729 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $453,736.80. This represents a 45.07% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 3.36% of the company’s stock.

Stifel Financial Stock Up 0.6% NYSE SF opened at $81.31 on Friday. Stifel Financial Corporation has a 12 month low of $67.81 and a 12 month high of $89.83. The company has a market capitalization of $12.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.55 and a beta of 0.99. The company’s 50 day simple moving average is $78.90 and its 200 day simple moving average is $76.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 0.88 and a quick ratio of 0.83.

Stifel Financial (NYSE:SF – Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, July 22nd. The financial services provider reported $1.42 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of $1.33 by $0.09. Stifel Financial had a net margin of 16.11% and a return on equity of 19.22%. The firm had revenue of $1.45 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $1.42 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.71 earnings per share. The firm’s revenue for the quarter was up 13.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts expect that Stifel Financial Corporation will post 6.36 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Stifel Financial Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 1st will be given a dividend of $0.34 per share. This represents a $1.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 1st. Stifel Financial’s payout ratio is presently 24.33%.

Stifel Financial Company Profile (Free Report)

Stifel Financial Corp. is a diversified financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1890, the firm has grown into a full‐service brokerage and investment banking organization serving individual investors, corporations and institutions. Through its principal subsidiary, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, the company delivers a broad array of financial products and services backed by research‐driven insights.

The firm’s main business activities are organized into two core segments: Private Client Group and Institutional Group.

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Key Takeaways Vertex Pharmaceuticals' stock gained 15.4% in a month after strong results and higher 2026 guidance.Alyftrek is boosting CF sales, while Journavx and Casgevy are gaining traction as non-CF products.Povetacicept and other renal candidates could diversify revenues, with potential approvals in 2026 and 2027. Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (VRTX - Free Report) stock has risen 15.4% in a month, driven mainly by strong second-quarter results, higher 2026 guidance, growing confidence in its post-cystic fibrosis (CF) growth story and renewed optimism around its renal pipeline.

Vertex reported second-quarter revenues of $3.33 billion, up 12% year over year, and raised its full-year revenue outlook to $13.1-$13.2 billion from $12.95-$13.1 billion previously. Earnings of $4.73 per share rose around 5% year over year.

Let's take a closer look at these factors to assess the key drivers behind VRTX's recent rally and determine how investors should approach the stock after its strong price gain.

Consistent Rise in VRTX’s CF Product SalesVertex holds a leadership position in the CF market. With its five CF medicines, Vertex can treat nearly 95% of all people living with CF in core markets. Demand for its CF therapies continues to grow, as the company expands access globally and wins approvals in younger patient populations. Meanwhile, Vertex does not face any near-term headwinds from LOE or increased competition for its CF therapies.

Its CF products generated revenues of $6.1 billion in the first half of 2026, up 8.4% year over year, driven by Trikafta/Kaftrio as well as increasing contribution from Alyftrek, a next-in-class triple combination regimen and Vertex’s fifth and newest CF medicine.

Alyftrek continues to outperform expectations and generated sales worth $573.6 million in the second quarter, up 35% on a sequential basis. The rollout of Alyftrek in the United States and Europe is progressing well across all patient groups. The drug surpassed $1 billion in cumulative global revenues in the first half of 2026. Alyftrek’s once-daily dosing and improved sweat chloride profile continue to resonate with patients and doctors.

Vertex is also conducting studies to expand the labels of Alyftrek and Trikafta to additional mutations as well as to younger patients. Vertex recently began global regulatory filings for Alyftrek in children with cystic fibrosis aged 2 to 5 years. 

Vertex expects incremental patients from the label expansions for Alyftrek and Trikafta, along with launches of Alyftrek in additional geographies and for treating younger patients, to drive CF growth through the rest of the year.

VRTX’s New Non-CF Drugs Show Strong Growth PotentialThe uptake of Vertex’s newly launched non-CF products, Journavx and Casgevy, was slower than expected in 2025. However, their sales are gradually picking up in 2026.

Journavx, a novel non-opioid pain medicine (suzetrigine), approved last year, has drawn significant investor attention because of the large unmet need for safer pain therapies amid the opioid crisis. Though Journavx’s sales have been slow since launch, its launch metrics and early reimbursement progress look positive. Vertex expects both sales and prescriptions to more than triple in 2026 versus 2025, reflecting the drug’s expanding market access and growing adoption. Journavx generated $49.6 million in sales in the second quarter, up 71% on a sequential basis, backed by strong underlying prescription growth.

Vertex and partner CRISPR Therapeutics’ (CRSP - Free Report) one-shot gene therapy, Casgevy, was approved for two blood disorders, sickle cell disease (SCD) and transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia (TDT), in multiple regions in late 2023/early 2024. Vertex leads the global development and commercialization of Casgevy under the terms of the 2021 agreement with support from CRISPR Therapeutics.

Casgevy’s sales were $76.4 million in the second quarter, up 78% on a sequential basis and 151% on a year-over-year basis due to an increase in patient infusions. Casgevy recorded more than 100 patient initiations in the second quarter as the launch continues to progress. First-half 2026 infusions have already exceeded the total for 2025, supported by improved reimbursement and growing patient uptake across key markets. Vertex is also making rapid progress in the drug’s access and reimbursement. In July, the FDA approved Casgevy for expanded use in pediatric patients 2 years and older with TDT and SCD.

The company expects non-CF products to generate revenues of $500 million plus in 2026, representing year-over-year growth of around 185%, driven by growing Casgevy infusions and a meaningful ramp in Journavx prescriptions and revenues.

Vertex’s Expanding Renal Pipeline Could Diversify GrowthWhile Vertex’s main focus is on the development and strengthening of its CF franchise, the company also has a rapidly advancing mid - to late-stage pipeline in other disease areas beyond CF, like acute and neuropathic pain, APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD), IgA nephropathy (IgAN), primary membranous nephropathy (pMN) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).

Many of these candidates represent multibillion-dollar opportunities. Many of these programs are in pivotal development, setting the stage for several potential regulatory filings in 2026 and early 2027, and potential new drug approvals in a couple of years.

Vertex’s candidates for kidney diseases are capturing investor attention. In kidney diseases, key pipeline candidates are VX-407 for ADPKD, inaxaplin for AMKD and povetacicept for IgAN and pMN. It is believed that povetacicept and inaxaplin represent significant commercial opportunities.

Povetacicept was added to Vertex’s portfolio from the Alpine acquisition in 2024. Vertex believes povetacicept has pipeline-in-a-product potential for B-cell-mediated diseases. Povetacicept is designed to target two proteins, namely BAFF and APRIL, which are jointly responsible for the cause of multiple serious autoimmune diseases.  In June 2026, the FDA accepted the regulatory filing seeking approval for povetacicept for IgAN. A final decision from the FDA is expected on Nov. 30, 2026. If approved, povetacicept would become Vertex's first commercialized nephrology product. Positive commercial progress of a competitor, Otsuka's IgAN therapy Voyxact, launched in 2025, has increased investor confidence in the IgAN market’s commercial opportunities.

Vertex is also conducting a pivotal phase II/III study of povetacicept for a second potential renal indication, pMN. Vertex is also conducting a phase II study on povetacicept for the treatment of gMG.

Vertex expects its kidney portfolio to become a significant growth driver over the next several years and diversify the company’s revenue streams.

However, Vertex has faced regular pipeline setbacks. In 2026, Vertex ended the phase I/II clinical study on mRNA therapeutic VX-522 in CF, after observing persistent tolerability issues in the study. Vertex was developing VX-522 in partnership with Moderna (MRNA - Free Report) .

VRTX’s Price, Valuation and EstimatesVertex stock has risen 22.0% so far this year, outperforming the industry’s 17.9% growth. 

VRTX Stock Outperforms IndustryImage Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, Vertex is slightly expensive. Going by the price/earnings ratio, the company’s shares currently trade at 27.52 forward earnings, higher than 19.44 for the industry. The stock is also trading above its five-year mean of 25.23.

VRTX Stock ValuationImage Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings has declined from $19.17 per share to $19.01 over the past 30 days, while that for 2027 has deteriorated from $20.97 per share to $20.66 per share over the same time frame.

VRTX Estimate MovementImage Source: Zacks Investment Research

Stay Invested in VRTX StockThe company has its share of headwinds like heavy dependence on the CF franchise, regular pipeline setbacks, intensifying competition as well as the risky nature of its non-CF pipeline programs.

However, Vertex dominates the CF market with drugs like Trikafta/Alyftrek and boasts a breakthrough non-CF pipeline. Vertex’s investment case has strengthened materially because the company is gradually transitioning from being predominantly a CF story toward a multi-pillar growth company.

In July 2026, Vertex agreed to acquire Crinetics Pharmaceuticals for about $10 billion, gaining Palsonify, its once-daily oral treatment for acromegaly. The acquisition will further diversify Vertex’s portfolio, adding rare endocrine diseases, which have high unmet need, as its fifth pillar. Vertex believes that Crinetics’ two lead assets, Palsonify and lead pipeline candidate atumelnant, together represent a peak sales opportunity of about $5 billion.

We believe Vertex is a good stock to have in one’s portfolio, considering its strong overall financial performance and robust pipeline progress. Vertex faces minimal competition in the CF franchise, which gives it pricing power. Vertex expects that both Casgevy and Journavx can become multibillion-dollar products in the long term. Long-term investors may retain this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock for now. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.