Market Signal Briefing

Investors might want to bet on Federal Signal (FSS - Free Report) , as it has been recently upgraded to a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). This upgrade is essentially a reflection of an upward trend in earnings estimates -- one of the most powerful forces impacting stock prices.

The Zacks rating relies solely on a company's changing earnings picture. It tracks EPS estimates for the current and following years from the sell-side analysts covering the stock through a consensus measure -- the Zacks Consensus Estimate.

Individual investors often find it hard to make decisions based on rating upgrades by Wall Street analysts, since these are mostly driven by subjective factors that are hard to see and measure in real time. In these situations, the Zacks rating system comes in handy because of the power of a changing earnings picture in determining near-term stock price movements.

As such, the Zacks rating upgrade for Federal Signal is essentially a positive comment on its earnings outlook that could have a favorable impact on its stock price.

Most Powerful Force Impacting Stock PricesThe change in a company's future earnings potential, as reflected in earnings estimate revisions, has proven to be strongly correlated with the near-term price movement of its stock. That's partly because of the influence of institutional investors that use earnings and earnings estimates for calculating the fair value of a company's shares. An increase or decrease in earnings estimates in their valuation models simply results in higher or lower fair value for a stock, and institutional investors typically buy or sell it. Their bulk investment action then leads to price movement for the stock.

For Federal Signal, rising earnings estimates and the consequent rating upgrade fundamentally mean an improvement in the company's underlying business. And investors' appreciation of this improving business trend should push the stock higher.

Harnessing the Power of Earnings Estimate RevisionsAs empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock movements, tracking such revisions for making an investment decision could be truly rewarding. Here is where the tried-and-tested Zacks Rank stock-rating system plays an important role, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions.

The Zacks Rank stock-rating system, which uses four factors related to earnings estimates to classify stocks into five groups, ranging from Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record, with Zacks Rank #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .

Earnings Estimate Revisions for Federal SignalFor the fiscal year ending December 2025, this company that makes products ranging from street sweepers to toll booth technology for government, industrial and commercial customers is expected to earn $4.15 per share, which is unchanged compared with the year-ago reported number.

Analysts have been steadily raising their estimates for Federal Signal. Over the past three months, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company has increased 3.2%.

Bottom LineUnlike the overly optimistic Wall Street analysts whose rating systems tend to be weighted toward favorable recommendations, the Zacks rating system maintains an equal proportion of "buy" and "sell" ratings for its entire universe of more than 4,000 stocks at any point in time. Irrespective of market conditions, only the top 5% of the Zacks-covered stocks get a "Strong Buy" rating and the next 15% get a "Buy" rating. So, the placement of a stock in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks indicates its superior earnings estimate revision feature, making it a solid candidate for producing market-beating returns in the near term.

You can learn more about the Zacks Rank here >>>

The upgrade of Federal Signal to a Zacks Rank #2 positions it in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks in terms of estimate revisions, implying that the stock might move higher in the near term.

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About Emily Jarvie
Emily began her career as a political journalist for Australian Community Media in Hobart, Tasmania. After she relocated to Toronto, Canada, she reported on business, legal, and scientific developments in the emerging psychedelics sector before joining Proactive in 2022. She brings a strong journalism background with her work featured in newspapers, magazines, and digital publications across Australia, Europe, and North America, including The Examiner, The Advocate, The Canberra Times, and... Read more

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Key Takeaways Howmet Aerospace will acquire Consolidated Aerospace Manufacturing for $1.8B.CAM's brands and engineering expertise will expand HWM's aerospace fastening portfolio.CAM is expected to generate $485-$495M in 2026 revenues, with margins above 20%.
Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM - Free Report) recently inked a deal with Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. (SWK - Free Report) to acquire its business unit, Consolidated Aerospace Manufacturing LLC (“CAM”). The deal carries a cash value of about $1.8 billion. This move marks a pivotal move in strengthening HWM’s long-term growth strategy.

CAM is engaged in producing and supplying aerospace components, including fluid fittings, precision fasteners and other advanced engineered products, for aerospace and defense platforms. The latest buyout is in sync with Howmet’s policy of acquiring businesses to strengthen its market share and customer base. CAM’s well-known brands, engineering expertise and strong customer relationships are expected to strengthen HWM’s aerospace fastening solutions portfolio. By adding CAM, Howmet will be able to offer more comprehensive solutions to the aerospace and defense customers.

In 2026, CAM is expected to post revenues of about $485-$495 million and maintain adjusted EBITDA margin above 20% before the acquisition completes. Subject to customary closing conditions, the acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2026.

The CAM acquisition is expected to give Howmet access to well-known brands, skilled engineering teams and strong customer relationships, allowing it to offer a wider range of products and services. As global aircraft production and defense spending remain robust, the addition of CAM positions HWM to enhance its fastening systems portfolio and strengthen its competitive position in the aerospace and defense industry.

Expansion Efforts of HWM’s PeersAmong its major peers, in July 2025, RBC Bearings Incorporated (RBC - Free Report) completed the acquisition of VACCO Industries from ESCO Technologies for about $275 million in cash. The inclusion of VACCO’s expertise in engineered valves, regulators and manifolds, supported by its strong designing, engineering and production capabilities, enables RBC Bearings to expand its customer offerings in the defense, space and commercial markets. In the fiscal second quarter of 2026 (ended September 2025), VACCO contributed $24.7 million in net sales to the RBC Bearings’ Aerospace & Defense segment.

Its another peer, HEICO Corp.’s (HEI - Free Report) disciplined acquisition strategy has been driving its overall performance. In November 2025, HEICO agreed to acquire Axillon Aerospace's Fuel Containment Business from affiliates of SK Capital Partners, LP. This buyout is expected to strengthen HEICO’s position across key U.S. military and commercial aircraft platforms.

HWM's Price Performance, Valuation and EstimatesShares of Howmet have surged 90.7% in the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 31.7%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, HWM is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 48.17X, above the industry’s average of 30.43X. Howmet carries a Value Score of D.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HWM’s 2025 earnings has remained steady over the past 30 days.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Howmet currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 (Strong Buy) Rank stocks here.

Key Takeaways Costco benefits from recurring membership fees, strong renewals and efficient inventory turnover.Digital comps at Costco rose more than 20%, supported by higher traffic and app engagement.Target is investing $5B in FY26 to upgrade stores, fulfillment and larger-format locations.
Target Corporation (TGT - Free Report) and Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST - Free Report) are two of the most prominent names in the U.S. discount retail space, serving value-conscious consumers. Target, with a market capitalization of around $45 billion, is a leading general merchandise retailer known for its strong private-label portfolio, omnichannel capabilities and broad product mix spanning essentials, apparel, home goods and electronics. The company operates nearly 2,000 stores across the United States, supported by a robust digital ecosystem.

Conversely, Costco, with a market capitalization of about $380 billion, operates more than 923 membership warehouses worldwide, including a significant footprint in the United States. Costco has built a highly resilient retail model anchored by recurring membership fees, rapid inventory turnover and a curated assortment that drives strong customer loyalty. Its value proposition remains compelling in an inflation-sensitive environment, supported by consistent traffic trends, pricing power and growing penetration in categories like fresh food, pharmacy and fuel.

Both retailers are navigating a dynamic consumer landscape shaped by shifting spending priorities, moderating inflation and heightened competition. While Target is working to reaccelerate discretionary demand and improve margins through inventory discipline and operating efficiencies, Costco continues to benefit from steady membership growth and a value-centric model that performs well across economic cycles. For investors, the key question remains: which discount retail stock offers more upside now?

The Case for TGTAfter a period of margin pressure, driven by excess inventory, higher shrink and weaker discretionary demand, Target has made visible progress. Management’s efforts in cleaning up inventory and improving operating discipline are starting to show in cleaner execution.

Target is leveraging its strong brand presence and diverse product portfolio, along with expanding e-commerce capabilities and a growing store footprint, to solidify its market position. Digital comparable sales increased 2.4% in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, driven by strong adoption of same-day services. Same-day delivery through Target Circle 360 rose more than 35%.

The company’s digital ecosystem continues to scale profitably. Target Plus delivered nearly 50% growth in gross merchandise value, reflecting expanding third-party assortment and improved marketplace engagement. At the same time, Roundel posted mid-teens revenue growth, highlighting the strength of Target’s retail media platform and its ability to monetize traffic and data more effectively. Together, these platforms are enhancing margin resilience and diversifying revenue streams beyond traditional merchandise sales.

Technology-led innovation remains a key differentiator for Target. The company is extending its leadership in AI-enabled retail through a first-of-its-kind conversational shopping experience integrated with ChatGPT. This capability allows guests to browse curated assortments, complete multi-item purchases, shop fresh food and select Drive Up, Pickup or shipping options in a single, seamless journey. Personalized recommendations enhance engagement, supporting Target’s strategy to blend convenience, discovery and value across touchpoints.

Operational execution is improving as advanced analytics enhance demand forecasting, assortment planning, and speed to market. Tools like Target Trend Brain and synthetic audiences help identify trends early and test consumer response before launch. On-shelf availability for key items improved more than 150 basis points year over year, reflecting stronger inventory forecasting and in-stock execution. Target plans to increase capital expenditure 25% to $5 billion in fiscal 2026 to support store remodels, larger-format locations, expanded fulfillment and major floor-pad upgrades.

Despite the positives, Target continues to face meaningful near-term headwinds, as cautious consumers continue to prioritize essentials over discretionary purchases. Even though the company’s recent quarterly performance aligned with management’s expectations, results remained pressured by weaker traffic trends and softer in-store momentum.

Discretionary categories such as Home and Apparel continue to lag. This softness has weighed on merchandise performance and, in turn, limited earnings momentum, prompting management to adopt a more conservative outlook for the near term. TGT narrowed its full-year adjusted EPS outlook to $7.00-$8.00 compared with the prior mentioned $7.00-$9.00.

The Case for COSTCostco’s competitive strength lies in its membership-based model, which supports steady and highly predictable earnings. Membership fees generate a reliable, high-margin revenue stream, while consistently strong renewal rates reflect deep customer loyalty. Backed by bulk purchasing power and an efficient supply chain, Costco can maintain attractive pricing for shoppers. Additionally, Costco’s private brand Kirkland Signature remains a major competitive advantage, strengthening customer stickiness while supporting margin structure.

The company has also been strategic in adapting to shifting consumer preferences. Its merchandising approach balances essential everyday products with a curated selection of unique, high-demand items, driving both foot traffic and additional spending. By relying on data-driven insights, Costco has been able to expand selectively in domestic and international markets without adding operational complexity.

Digital growth stood out in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, with digitally enabled comparable sales increasing more than 20%, supported by stronger website traffic and app engagement. Management noted that digital initiatives are helping the company better monetize its product mix, particularly in non-food and big-ticket categories, while still enhancing and not replacing the in-store shopping experience.

Operational efficiency remains another key advantage. Costco reported meaningful productivity gains from pre-scan technology, which improved checkout speed in warehouses. AI-driven pharmacy inventory systems helped lift in-stock levels and supported solid growth in prescription volumes. Same-day delivery offerings, enabled through partnerships with third-party platforms in the U.S. and international markets, also performed well in the quarter, extending convenience with limited capital intensity.

That said, Costco continues to operate with thin merchandise margins. Wage inflation, logistics expenses and ongoing technology investments could pressure margins in the near term. In addition, the demand for discretionary items may fluctuate with consumer spending trends. While Costco’s model remains highly durable, maintaining execution discipline and cost control will be key to sustaining the long-term performance.

How Does the Zacks Consensus Estimate Compare for TGT & COST?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Target’s current fiscal-year sales and EPS implies year-over-year declines of 1.6% and 17.7%, respectively. The consensus estimate for EPS for the current fiscal year has declined 13 cents to $7.29 over the past 60 days.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Costco’s current fiscal-year sales and EPS suggests year-over-year increases of 7.5% and 11.7%, respectively. The consensus estimate for EPS for the current fiscal year has moved upward by 12 cents to $20.09 over the past 60 days.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Stock Performances of TGT & COSTOver the past year, shares of Target have slumped 28.8%, whereas Costco has declined 7.1%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Dive Into Stock Valuations of TGT & COSTTarget is trading at a forward price-to-sales (P/S) multiple of 0.41, below its median of 0.57 in the last three years. Costco’s forward 12-month P/S multiple sits at 1.28, below its median of 1.33 in the last three years.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

TGT or COST: Which Is the Better Bet Now?Costco stands out as the stronger investment candidate, supported by its membership-based business model, high customer loyalty and consistent operational efficiency. Recurring membership fees provide a reliable, high-margin income stream, while strong renewal rates demonstrate the company’s value proposition. Selective domestic and international expansion, data-driven merchandising, and digital initiatives drive traffic and sales without undermining in-store performance, reinforcing Costco’s competitive position.

While Target is making progress with digital initiatives, AI-driven operations and merchandising innovation, it faces soft traffic, underperforming higher-margin categories and promotional pressures. In contrast, Costco’s defensive positioning makes it the better option to hold, offering a clearer path to stable, long-term growth.

Both Target and Costco currently carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

A patient, partnership-driven family office didn’t wait for fundamentals to break before walking away, and that timing may matter more than the sale itself.

New York City-based Wildcat Capital Management sold out its position in TIC Solutions, Inc. (TIC +0.09%) during the third quarter, reducing exposure by 1.5 million shares with a net change of $16.56 million, according to a November 13 SEC filing.

What HappenedAccording to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission dated November 13, Wildcat Capital Management fully exited its position in TIC Solutions, Inc. (TIC +0.09%) during the third quarter. The fund divested 1.5 million shares, corresponding to a net position value change of $16.56 million.

What Else to KnowWildcat’s stake in TIC had been 9.84% of fund AUM in the previous quarter.

Top holdings after the filing:

NASDAQ: ULCC: $123.89 million (85.4% of AUM)NYSE: RLX: $16.88 million (11.6% of AUM)NASDAQ: ALLO: $3.62 million (2.5% of AUM)NASDAQ: TTAN: $417,235 (0.3% of AUM)NASDAQ: GTLB: $264,214 (0.2% of AUM)As of Friday, shares of TIC were priced at $10.60, down about 19% since its New York Stock Exchange listing in February.

Company OverviewMetricValuePrice (as of Friday)$10.60Market Capitalization$2.33 billionRevenue (TTM)$1.10 billionNet Income (TTM)($121.16 million)Company SnapshotTIC Solutions provides nondestructive testing, inspection, engineering, and laboratory testing services across the United States and Canada.The company operates through a network of facilities and field teams, serving clients in the industrial and infrastructure sectors.TIC employs over 11,000 people and is headquartered in Hollywood, Florida.TIC Solutions, Inc. delivers specialized testing and inspection services to a range of industries, supporting operational safety and regulatory compliance for its clients.

Foolish TakeWildcat Capital Management was founded in 2011 as the single-family office of David Bonderman, the billionaire co-founder of TPG who died in December 2024. This is not fast money. Historically, Wildcat has favored concentrated, long-term positions built around management partnerships and structural change. When that kind of capital exits entirely, it deserves attention.

The timing is notable. TIC Solutions recently reported third-quarter revenue of $473.9 million, up 56% year over year, alongside adjusted EBITDA of $77.3 million and an increased cost-synergy target following its NV5 merger. On paper, the business is scaling fast. Management reaffirmed full-year revenue guidance of roughly $1.55 billion and adjusted EBITDA of up to $250 million.

Yet Wildcat chose to fully liquidate a position that previously made up nearly 10% of its portfolio. That suggests this wasn’t a reaction to weak execution. It looks more like valuation discipline after a transformational year. TIC now carries heavy integration complexity, elevated leverage, and a balance sheet shaped by serial acquisitions. Sometimes the smartest capital leaves when the story gets obvious.

Glossary13F reportable AUM: Assets under management that must be disclosed in quarterly SEC Form 13F filings by institutional investment managers.

Divested: Sold off an asset or investment, fully or partially, to reduce or eliminate ownership.

Alpha: A measure of an investment's performance relative to a benchmark index, often the S&P 500.

Stake: The ownership interest or investment held in a company by an individual or institution.

TTM: The 12-month period ending with the most recent quarterly report.

Nondestructive testing: Inspection methods that evaluate materials or structures without causing damage.

Fund AUM: The total market value of assets managed by an investment fund.

Exposure: The amount of capital or risk allocated to a particular investment or asset.

Quarter: A three-month period used by companies and investors for financial reporting and performance measurement.

Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends GitLab and Tic Solutions. The Motley Fool recommends ServiceTitan. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

PagerDuty (PD - Free Report) could be a solid addition to your portfolio given a notable revision in the company's earnings estimates. While the stock has been gaining lately, the trend might continue since its earnings outlook is still improving.

The rising trend in estimate revisions, which is a result of growing analyst optimism on the earnings prospects of this software developer, should get reflected in its stock price. After all, empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements. Our stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- has this insight at its core.

The five-grade Zacks Rank system, which ranges from a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record of outperformance, with Zacks #1 Ranked stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 2008.

Consensus earnings estimates for the next quarter and full year have moved considerably higher for PagerDuty, as there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising estimates.

The chart below shows the evolution of forward 12-month Zacks Consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Current-Quarter Estimate RevisionsFor the current quarter, the company is expected to earn $0.24 per share, which is a change of +9.1% from the year-ago reported number.

Over the last 30 days, two estimates have moved higher for PagerDuty compared to no negative revisions. As a result, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased 225%.

Current-Year Estimate RevisionsFor the full year, the company is expected to earn $1.09 per share, representing a year-over-year change of +28.2%.

In terms of estimate revisions, the trend for the current year also appears quite encouraging for PagerDuty. Over the past month, three estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions, helping the consensus estimate increase 71.74%.

Favorable Zacks RankThe promising estimate revisions have helped PagerDuty earn a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). The Zacks Rank is a tried-and-tested rating tool that helps investors effectively harness the power of earnings estimate revisions and make the right investment decision.

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

Our research shows that stocks with Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and 2 (Buy) significantly outperform the S&P 500.

Bottom LinePagerDuty shares have added 12% over the past four weeks, suggesting that investors are betting on its impressive estimate revisions. So, you may consider adding it to your portfolio right away to benefit from its earnings growth prospects.

Key Takeaways Edwards Lifesciences won FDA approval for SAPIEN M3, the first transseptal TMVR for mitral regurgitation.EW's system targets patients unable to undergo surgery or edge-to-edge repair by using a transseptal approach.One-year ENCIRCLE trial data showed 95.7% MR elimination, with strong safety and symptom improvement.
Edwards Lifesciences (EW - Free Report) announced that the FDA approved its SAPIEN M3 transcatheter mitral valve replacement system, making it the first minimally invasive, catheter-based treatment that uses a transseptal approach to treat mitral regurgitation.

The SAPIEN M3 system is designed for patients with moderate-to-severe mitral valve leakage symptoms who cannot undergo open-heart surgery or existing catheter-based edge-to-edge repair treatments. It is also approved for patients with severe mitral valve dysfunction linked to mitral annular calcification, including moderate-to-severe or severe mitral regurgitation (MR), severe mitral stenosis (MS) or a combination of both, when other treatment options are not suitable.

Per management, mitral regurgitation is a common heart valve condition and many patients suffer from severe symptoms that can be life-threatening and reduce their quality of life. The FDA approval of the SAPIEN M3 system is a major expansion of Edwards Lifesciences’ transcatheter portfolio that allows a minimally invasive mitral valve replacement solution that reduces MR and improves patient symptoms and overall well-being.

EW Stock Trend Following the NewsShares of Edwards Lifesciences have gained 0.1% since the announcement on Tuesday. Over the past six months, shares of the company have rallied 11.9% compared with the industry’s 3.5% growth and the S&P 500’s 15.6% rise.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The FDA approval of SAPIEN M3 will enhance Edwards Lifesciences’ growth profile in the long run within the mitral valve market by opening a safe and effective treatment option for patients who were previously untreatable. For EW, the approval reinforces the company’s competitive position as a leader in minimally invasive heart therapies and expands its portfolio of heart valve technology.

EW currently has a market capitalization of $50.07 billion.

More on SAPIEN M3 SystemThe SAPIEN M3 transcatheter mitral valve replacement system is built on the company’s proven SAPIEN transcatheter platform. The TMVR procedure is performed through a percutaneous transseptal approach and involves a two-step process. First, a docking system is placed and then the replacement valve is delivered, replacing the damaged mitral valve. This minimally invasive design enables complete mitral valve replacement by inserting a thin, flexible tube called a sheath through the femoral vein in the leg without opening the chest, addressing a critical unmet need among high-risk patients.

Clinical validation results from the ENCIRCLE trial were shared at Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (“TCT”) in October 2025 and published in The Lancet, a leading medical journal. One-year data demonstrated strong safety and effectiveness outcomes in 299 patients who had no other treatment options, achieving 95.7% rate of elimination of MR and significant improvements in symptoms. These results position the SAPIEN M3 system as a transformative option to treat mitral valve disease in the United States and drive the adoption by physicians.

The FDA approval of EW’s SAPIEN M3 TMVR system boosts the company’s 65-year-long contribution in developing innovative heart treatments and complements its FDA-approved transcatheter mitral and tricuspid therapies — PASCAL Precision mitral repair and EVOQUE tricuspid valve replacement systems. With the Conformité Européenne (CE) mark secured in early 2025 for the SAPIEN M3 system, EW is well-positioned to scale the SAPIEN M3 system, expanding its addressable market and reinforcing its long-term growth trajectory in structural heart innovation.

Industry Prospects Favoring the Heart Valve Device MarketGoing by data provided by Precedence Research, the heart valve device market is valued at $14.89 billion in 2025 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 11.7% through 2034. Factors like increasing prevalence of vascular heart diseases, especially aortic stenosis and mitral regurgitation, development of minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve replacement and repair procedures, AI-advanced diagnostic and screening modalities, and favorable reimbursement policies are driving the market’s growth.

Other NewsEdwards Lifesciences is sponsoring the American Heart Association’s Heart Valve Initiative to improve care for 28 million people worldwide with heart valve disease. The program focuses on early diagnosis, clinician training, patient education, hospital certification, data collection and public awareness to reduce deaths and enhance treatment outcomes over the next five years.

The company presented seven-year data from the PARTNER 3 trials at TCT 2025, showing that its FDA-Approved SAPIEN 3 transcatheter aortic valve replacement therapy provides sustained patient benefits, excellent valve durability and superior clinical outcomes. The 10-year results from PARTNER 2 intermediate risk studies confirm Edwards Lifesciences’ leadership in delivering reliable, long-lasting heart-valve performance.

EW’s Zacks Rank & Key PicksCurrently, EW has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Some better-ranked stocks from the broader medical space are Veracyte (VCYT - Free Report) , Artivion (AORT - Free Report) and EDAP TMS (EDAP - Free Report) .

Veracyte, sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present, reported third-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 51 cents, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 59.4%. Revenues of $131.8 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 5.5%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rankstocks here.

VCYT has an estimated earnings growth rate of 38.7% for 2025 compared with the industry’s 13.6% rise. The company beat earnings estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 45.12%.

Artivion, currently carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), reported a third-quarter 2025 adjusted EPS of 16 cents, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 14.3%. Revenues of $113.3 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.8%.

AORT has an estimated earnings growth rate of 140% for 2025 compared with the industry’s 13.6% rise. The company delivered a negative average earnings surprise of 4.38% in the trailing four quarters.

EDAP, presently carrying a Zacks Rank #2, reported a third-quarter 2025 loss per share of 15 cents, 42.3% narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Revenues of $16.1 million topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 7.1%.

EDAP’s loss per share for 2025 is projected to widen 25.5%, while the industry’s earnings are expected to grow 13.6%. The company’s earnings beat estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 19.36%.

The global mining sector is set for another strong year in 2026, with supply constraints, resilient demand and potential US Federal Reserve rate cuts providing a favorable backdrop for earnings growth and rising share prices, according to analysts at Jefferies.

“2026 should be a year of commodity-driven earnings growth for the sector,” Jefferies analysts wrote, highlighting copper and aluminum as the metals with the most upside potential due to widening supply deficits and rising power costs.

The firm also noted that miners with the most organic growth continue to trade at the highest multiples.

Jefferies expects a positive macro environment to support the sector. A more accommodative Fed could weaken the dollar, push inflation slightly higher, and strengthen the economy — all tailwinds for commodities.

Even without aggressive Fed support, US demand for copper, aluminum, and coal could benefit from strengthening electricity markets and planned investment to expand the power grid. Chinese demand is expected to remain weak but stable, with no major downturn anticipated.

The firm said the sector is entering “significant mark-to-market earnings upgrades territory for 2026,” though higher capital expenditure (capex) could partially offset these gains. “BHP, Lundin and, possibly, Glencore have the most capex risk for real growth projects,” Jefferies noted, adding that most miners are expected to raise capex guidance as they pivot toward growth initiatives.

Jefferies highlighted Freeport-McMoRan Inc (NYSE:FCX, XETRA:FPMB), Glencore PLC (LSE:GLEN), Anglo American PLC (LSE:AAL), and Alcoa (NYSE:AA) as its top picks for 2026. For Freeport, a recovery at Grasberg is expected to reverse underperformance in the second half of 2025. Glencore could see benefits from operational improvements and potential mergers and acquisitions. Anglo is positioned for multiple catalysts as it exits De Beers, met coal, and nickel ahead of its planned merger with Teck. Alcoa’s operational improvements and rising free cash flow are expected to drive further deleveraging and eventual capital returns.

“For each of our top picks, share price upside is not entirely dependent on rising commodity prices, but commodity price strength in each case should clearly help,” Jefferies said.

Overall, the analysts expect the sector to outperform as long as the global economy remains healthy, with 2026 shaping up as a year of growth and opportunity for miners worldwide.

Key Takeaways MET's premiums rose 2.4% in the first nine months of 2025, led by the Group Benefits, Asia and EMEA segments.MET is streamlining operations and pursuing acquisitions and digital collaborations to support growth.MetLife's $20.2B cash position supports buybacks and dividends, with a 2.8% yield.
MetLife, Inc. (MET - Free Report) primarily provides protection and investment products to a range of individual and institutional customers. Beyond offering individual annuities, insurance and investment products, the company delivers group insurance, as well as retirement and savings products and services. In the past six months, MET shares have grown 0.9%, underperforming the industry’s 4.4% rise.

MetLife, an insurance-based global financial services company with a market capitalization of $53.4 billion, is well-poised to grow on the back of higher premiums, cost-cutting efforts, cash generation ability, and acquisitions and partnerships. Its forward P/E of 8.09X is lower than the industry average of 9.28X. The company has a Value Score of A.

Courtesy of solid prospects, MET currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Where Do Estimates for MET Stand?The Zacks Consensus Estimate for MetLife’s 2025 earnings is pegged at $8.71 per share, indicating a 7.4% year-over-year rise, which has been revised upward over the past seven days. Furthermore, the consensus mark for revenues is pegged at $79.1 billion for 2025, implying 8.3% year-over-year rise. It beat earnings estimates in one of the past four quarters and missed three times.

MET’s Growth DriversMetLife has seen a steady recovery in its premiums, supported by its broad product portfolio, customized insurance solutions and long-standing relationships with large corporate clients and payers, which ensure steady business volumes. Its total premium rose 2.4% year over year in the first nine months of 2025, driven by strong performances in the Group Benefits, Asia and EMEA segments.

The company’s emphasis on streamlining operations, acquisitions and collaborations is expected to support sustainable growth. Key initiatives include the launch of Chariot Re and broadening digital collaborations like Xcelerator in Latin America. It is focusing on the acquisition of PineBridge Investments to bolster investment management capabilities.

MetLife’s growth strategy focuses on steady, high-quality expansion rather than aggressive risk-taking. The company is scaling capital-efficient businesses, deepening its retirement and protection offerings, and using technology and data-led tools to improve margins while supporting consistent earnings growth across regions.

Cost-saving initiatives have driven significant operational efficiency at MetLife. Under the New Frontier strategy 2025, the company aims for a 100-bps reduction in unit costs over five years by streamlining operations, expanding high-growth segments and accelerating asset management.

MetLife’s robust liquidity position, evidenced by $20.2 billion in cash and cash equivalents as of Sept. 30, 2025, far exceeds its short-term debt of $378 million. This financial strength supports shareholder returns through share repurchases and dividend payouts. From the start of 2025 to October, the company bought back common shares worth $2.6 million. Its dividend yield of 2.8% remains higher than the industry’s average of 2.2%.

MET: Risks to WatchThere are some factors that investors should keep a careful eye on.

MetLife's investment income has been under pressure in recent years. After rising 25% in 2021 on the back of strong private equity returns, the metric declined nearly 26% in 2022 amid a weaker real estate equity market. Despite the high-interest-rate environment, variable investment income fell sharply 72.9% in 2023. In 2024, it totaled $1 billion, falling short of the company’s $1.5-billion target. MetLife expects pre-tax variable investment income to reach $1.7 billion in 2025. Notably, the metric came in at $1 billion in the first nine months of 2025.

The company’s return on invested capital (ROIC) stands at 1.8%, trailing the industry average of 2.1%. This suggests weaker capital efficiency and raises concerns about the company's ability to generate sufficient returns from its deployed resources.

Key PicksSome better-ranked stocks in the broader finance space are Markel Group Inc. (MKL - Free Report) , Heritage Insurance Holdings Inc. (HRTG - Free Report) and Hamilton Insurance Group, Ltd. (HG - Free Report) , each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Markel Group’s current-year earnings of $105.42 per share has witnessed one upward revision in the past seven days against none in the opposite direction. Markel Group beat earnings estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 19.9%. The consensus estimate for current-year revenues is pegged at $15.3 billion, implying 3.5% year-over-year growth.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Heritage Insurance’s current-year earnings of $5.14 per share has witnessed two upward revisions in the past 60 days against no movement in the opposite direction. Heritage Insurance beat earnings estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 100.1%. The consensus estimate for current-year revenues is pegged at $844.6 million, calling for 3.4% year-over-year growth.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Hamilton Insurance Group’s current-year earnings is pegged at $3.90 per share and has witnessed one upward revision in the past 30 days against no movement in the opposite direction. Hamilton Insurance Group beat earnings estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and missed once, the average surprise being 289.1%. The consensus estimate for current-year revenues is pegged at $2.8 billion, calling for 20.8% year-over-year growth.

TL;DR

Mandatory Updates Risk: Ripple CTO David Schwartz warns that forced wallet updates create urgency, exposing users to phishing scams, fake update prompts, and even permanent device damage.
User Autonomy: Schwartz advocates giving users control to install updates calmly at their convenience, allowing time for verification and research.
Industry Context: His remarks follow Trezor’s scam alert, reinforcing ongoing debates about wallet security and highlighting Ripple’s commitment to safeguards.

Ripple Chief Technology Officer David Schwartz has issued a strong warning to crypto wallet manufacturers, urging them to rethink how they deliver software and firmware updates. His comments highlight the risks of mandatory updates, stressing that rushed processes can expose users to phishing attacks, fake updates, or even permanent device damage. Schwartz’s intervention reflects a broader push for user-centric security practices in the crypto ecosystem.

Schwartz’s Warning on Mandatory Updates
In a post shared on X, Schwartz cautioned wallet makers against forcing users into immediate updates unless absolutely necessary. He argued that mandatory updates often create urgency, leading users to bypass critical verification steps. This rushed environment increases vulnerability to scams and technical errors. According to Schwartz, updates should only be enforced when addressing urgent threats, not routine improvements.

Crypto wallet manufacturers:
Please do not make software/firmware updates mandatory unless *absolutely* necessary. Sometimes we need to do things in a hurry and forcing us to make updates in a hurry to get to do the thing we really need to do creates grave risk needlessly.

— David 'JoelKatz' Schwartz (@JoelKatz) December 26, 2025

Risks of Rushed Firmware Changes
Schwartz emphasized that hurried updates can have severe consequences. Users under pressure may fail to authenticate properly, opening the door to phishing attempts. Moreover, technical mistakes during rushed installations could permanently damage hardware wallets. By highlighting these dangers, Schwartz underscored the importance of balancing security with usability, ensuring that protective measures do not inadvertently harm the very users they aim to safeguard.

Advocating User Control in Security
The Ripple CTO proposed a more user-friendly approach: notify users of available updates but allow them to install at their convenience. He explained that calm, deliberate updates give users time to research, verify authenticity, and avoid unnecessary risks. This philosophy aligns with broader crypto security principles that prioritize user autonomy and minimize friction in critical operations.

Industry Context and Recent Alerts
Schwartz’s comments came shortly after hardware wallet provider Trezor warned of potential scams targeting users. His stance adds weight to ongoing debates about best practices in wallet security. While updates remain essential for patching vulnerabilities and adding features, Schwartz insists they should not be mandatory unless addressing immediate threats. His remarks reaffirm Ripple’s commitment to safeguarding the ecosystem through pragmatic, user-focused measures.

17h05 ▪
5
min read ▪ by
Mikaia A.

Summarize this article with:

In the crypto universe, there are anonymous currencies, one-month star tokens… and there are tokens that slam like declarations of war. Right now, USD1, a stablecoin launched by the Trump family, attracts all the spotlight. Its rise in power, as much political as economic, disrupts the balance of an ecosystem already under strain. Between community ambitions and a geopolitical saga, this stablecoin leaves no one indifferent.

In brief

USD1 exceeds 3.07 billion capitalization and becomes the 32nd largest crypto asset by size.
Binance boosts USD1 with 20% APR and replaces BUSD with this new stablecoin.
The project targets small investors, far from the institutional strategies of USDT or USDC. (15 words)

USD1 and its sprint to 3 billion $: express record for a stablecoin 
In just a few months, USD1 has exceeded 3.07 billion in capitalization, after a 6% increase in 24 hours. This figure places it among the top 10 largest global stablecoins (7th last May), and even in the 32nd position of the most valued crypto-assets according to CoinMarketCap.

This breakthrough of USD1 is explained by several strategic moves. First, Binance’s Booster program, which offers up to 20% APR for token holders. Then, a significant decision: Binance replaced the collateral of its old BUSD with USD1 at a 1:1 rate, placing it at the heart of its digital asset system.

Meanwhile, WLFI, the stablecoin issuing company founded by Donald Trump Jr., multiplies alliances. With Coinbase, FalconX, and Raydium on Solana, the project bets on wide and rapid distribution.

But the rapid growth of USD1 also revealed its limits. During a flash crash on the BTC/USD1 pair, the price of bitcoin plunged to $24,000 before bouncing to $87,000, an anomaly caused by a liquidity weakness. A rise in power, therefore, but not without hiccups yet.

USD1, stablecoin flag of small holders or crypto political mirage?
From its launch, USD1 presented itself as a stablecoin designed for “retail users.” Where USDT and USDC dominate with institutional support, USD1 seeks to root itself in popular adoption. A stance assumed by its founders.

Zach Witkoff, co-founder of WLFI, explains:

This is just the beginning, we are building the future of finance driven by real world adoption of USD1.

The partnerships speak this language too: memecoin Bonk, DEX Raydium, Solana network. All aiming for a decentralized, young crypto community often far from power spheres.

Yet, this strategy raises doubts. Trump’s shadow looms. Can this token really be presented as “popular” when it is supported by a political dynasty? The doubt settles in. The mission of “financial democratization” mingles with a well-rehearsed image war.

Nevertheless, the facts are there. Adoption is fast. Volumes climb. Rewards entice. The USD1 project walks a fine line between populist storytelling and crypto disruption.

Trump, CZ, Binance: the triangle of influence that changes the rules
Behind this success story, a political plot unfolds. Starting with the deal between MGX (Abu Dhabi) and Binance: 2 billion dollars paid via USD1, just before the presidential pardon granted by Trump to Changpeng Zhao (CZ), former boss of Binance.

The affair sparked reactions. Elizabeth Warren saw a play of influence, at the very moment Congress was debating the GENIUS Act, a key law for the crypto industry. Binance U.S., for its part, calmed things down: purely commercial, the management assures.

For observers, this Trump–Binance–USD1 triangle replays the old codes of finance… in a tokenized setting.

A project insider, Dylan_0x, sums up:

Once USD1 attains a sufficiently large market share, every incentive it introduces will correspondingly benefit WLFI.

Five figures to follow USD1’s trajectory:

$3.07 billion capitalization according to CoinMarketCap;
6% growth in 24 hours after Binance’s announcement;
20% APR offered to stablecoin holders;
• 32nd place in the global crypto ranking;
1 flash crash: drop to $24,000, then peak at $87,000 within seconds.

While USD1 turns heads in the crypto universe, the general mood is less festive. The global crypto market capitalization has fallen below 3,000 billion dollars, weighed down by the decline of Bitcoin and Ethereum. Another proof that the skyrocketing rise of an asset can mask a wider market downturn.

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Mikaia A.

La révolution blockchain et crypto est en marche ! Et le jour où les impacts se feront ressentir sur l’économie la plus vulnérable de ce Monde, contre toute espérance, je dirai que j’y étais pour quelque chose

DISCLAIMER

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and should not be taken as investment advice. Do your own research before taking any investment decisions.

Fri, 26/12/2025 - 16:07

Dogecoin open interest jumps as traders bet $1,490,000,000 in hopes of potential DOGE price breakout.

Cover image via U.Today

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by our writers are their own and do not represent the views of U.Today. The financial and market information provided on U.Today is intended for informational purposes only. U.Today is not liable for any financial losses incurred while trading cryptocurrencies. Conduct your own research by contacting financial experts before making any investment decisions. We believe that all content is accurate as of the date of publication, but certain offers mentioned may no longer be available.

Dogecoin (DOGE), the biggest meme coin by market capitalization, shows a notable resurgence in its futures activity, hinting at an incoming price rally. Over the past 24 hours, the Dogecoin open interest jumped to $1.44 billion

Spike in Dogecoin open interest According to CoinGlass data,11,900,000,000 DOGE were committed in open interest over the past day. In fiat terms, this translates to $1.44 billion, signaling renewed interest across the Dogecoin network. 

This surge in Dogecoin futures activity marks one of the highest open interests seen over the past few months. It signals a resurgence in speculative appetite for Dogecoin.

Investors on Binance committed the highest open interest to the total over the past day. These investors committed a total of 2.08 billion DOGE valued at $254.5 billion to the asset. This figure represents 17.75% of the total open interest. 

OKX investors came second as they pledged 996.8 million DOGE in open interest, representing 8.57% of the total.  

Other exchanges on the top five list include Bybit, KuCoin and Gate. Dogecoin open interest from these exchanges amounted to $109.8 million, $24.14 million and $452.8 million, respectively.

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DOGE price stalls, but hope remainsNote that open interest refers to the total value of unsettled active futures contracts that investors have committed to Dogecoin. Higher open interest usually indicates positive momentum in the Dogecoin ecosystem, which eventually reflects in the price.

As of press time, Dogecoin is trading at $0.1228, showing a price decline of 2.73% over the last day, according to CoinMarketCap data.

While Dogecoin has only seen its price show weakness, it appears that traders have increasingly committed more tokens to the derivatives market. Their actions are likely in preparation for a potential breakout. 

Moreover, the Dogecoin price traded positively during the early hours of the day, before flipping to the downside. Additionally, the Dogecoin volume offers a good spotlight for engagement in the meme coin ecosystem.

Furthermore, the launch of a DOGE exchange-traded fund (ETF) in the U.S also opens the meme coin up for future price breakouts.

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Ted Hisokawa
Dec 26, 2025 17:12

Solana trades at $121.59 near yearly lows while institutional adoption signals from JPMorgan fail to lift SOL price amid broader crypto market weakness and muted holiday volumes.

Quick Take
• SOL trading at $121.59 (down 1.5% in 24h)
• JPMorgan's institutional crypto pivot provides backdrop support but limited immediate impact
• Testing critical support near 52-week low of $119.60
• Following Bitcoin's weakness amid reduced holiday trading activity

Market Events Driving Solana Price Movement
Trading on technical factors dominated SOL price action this week, with institutional developments providing mixed signals for near-term direction. JPMorgan Chase's reported consideration of offering cryptocurrency trading services to institutional clients represents a significant shift in traditional banking sentiment toward digital assets. However, this positive development has yet to translate into meaningful SOL price momentum, highlighting the disconnect between institutional adoption narratives and immediate trading dynamics.

The broader macro environment showed U.S. stocks hovering at record highs while gold and silver prices surged on economic uncertainties and Federal Reserve rate cut expectations. This traditional market strength failed to provide meaningful support for SOL price, indicating that cryptocurrency markets remain primarily driven by sector-specific factors rather than broader risk asset correlations during this holiday period.

No significant Solana-specific catalysts emerged in the past 48 hours, leaving SOL price vulnerable to technical selling pressure and reduced institutional participation during the holiday week. The absence of major news events has allowed technical factors to dominate, with SOL testing critical support levels established throughout 2025.

SOL Technical Analysis: Critical Support Test
Price Action Context
SOL price currently trades below all major moving averages, signaling sustained bearish momentum. At $121.59, Solana sits 1.8% below the 7-day SMA of $123.71 and significantly under the 200-day SMA at $173.95. This positioning indicates sellers maintain control across multiple timeframes, with no immediate technical relief visible.

The 24-hour trading range of $119.24 to $125.14 demonstrates compressed volatility, typical during holiday periods when institutional participation decreases. Binance spot volume of $441 million reflects reduced but still substantial interest, suggesting patient accumulation by some market participants near these yearly lows.

Key Technical Indicators
The RSI reading of 38.17 places SOL in neutral territory, avoiding oversold conditions despite the recent decline. This suggests further downside remains possible before technical buying emerges. The MACD histogram showing a slight positive reading of 0.0332 provides the only bullish momentum indicator, though the overall MACD remains deeply negative at -4.7930.

Bollinger Bands position reveals SOL trading at the lower band with a %B reading of 0.1979, indicating potential oversold conditions developing. However, the bands themselves show continued compression, reflecting the reduced volatility environment that often precedes significant directional moves.

Critical Price Levels for Solana Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $125.14 (24-hour high and initial technical barrier)
• Support: $119.60 (52-week low providing critical psychological level)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break below the $119.60 support could trigger accelerated selling toward the $116.88 strong support level, representing the next major technical floor. Conversely, a move above $125.14 would need to clear the 7-day SMA at $123.71 to signal any meaningful technical recovery attempt.

SOL Correlation Analysis
Bitcoin's concurrent weakness has provided headwinds for SOL price, with the correlation remaining strong during this technical selling phase. Solana technical analysis shows the altcoin following Bitcoin's lead rather than establishing independent strength, typical during periods of reduced institutional activity.

Traditional market correlations remain minimal, with SOL price showing little response to record stock market highs or rising gold prices. This disconnect suggests cryptocurrency markets continue operating within their own technical and fundamental framework rather than broader risk asset dynamics.

Trading Outlook: Solana Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
A successful defense of the $119.60 support combined with increased post-holiday volume could establish a base for recovery. Institutional adoption momentum from developments like JPMorgan's crypto consideration may provide fundamental support for longer-term positioning above current levels.

Bearish Case
Failure to hold 52-week low support could trigger stop-loss selling and algorithmic downside momentum toward the $116.88 level. Continued Bitcoin weakness and extended holiday trading volumes present ongoing headwinds for any recovery attempts.

Risk Management
Tight stop-loss orders below $119.50 recommended for long positions given proximity to critical support. Position sizing should account for the $7.20 daily ATR, suggesting potential for significant intraday moves once normal trading volumes return in early January.

Image source: Shutterstock

sol price analysis
sol price prediction

Cover image via U.Today

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by our writers are their own and do not represent the views of U.Today. The financial and market information provided on U.Today is intended for informational purposes only. U.Today is not liable for any financial losses incurred while trading cryptocurrencies. Conduct your own research by contacting financial experts before making any investment decisions. We believe that all content is accurate as of the date of publication, but certain offers mentioned may no longer be available.

Bulls could not hold the initiative until the end of the day, and the prices of most coins have returned to the red zone, according to CoinStats.

Image by TradingViewBTC/USDThe price of Bitcoin (BTC) has fallen by 1% over the last 24 hours.

Image by TradingViewOn the hourly chart, the rate of BTC is breaking the local support of $86,850. If bears can hold the gained initiative, the drop may continue to the $86,000 mark shortly.

Image by TradingViewOn the longer time frame, one should pay attention to the daily bar's closure. 

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If it happens around the current prices and with a high wick, traders might witness an ongoing decline to the $85,000 area.

Image by TradingViewFrom the midterm point of view, the price of the main crypto is far from key levels. The volume keeps falling, which means traders are unlikely to see sharp moves this week.

Bitcoin is trading at $86,860 at press time.

Fri, 26/12/2025 - 16:20

Even though the $20,000 ETH call on X turned out to be fake, Tom Lee reacted with just two words, a reminder that his Ethereum treasury holds 4,066,062 ETH and moves by about $4 billion for every $1,000 change in price.

Cover image via commons.wikimedia.org

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by our writers are their own and do not represent the views of U.Today. The financial and market information provided on U.Today is intended for informational purposes only. U.Today is not liable for any financial losses incurred while trading cryptocurrencies. Conduct your own research by contacting financial experts before making any investment decisions. We believe that all content is accurate as of the date of publication, but certain offers mentioned may no longer be available.

Tom Lee just gave a made-up 4chan “prediction” a second life, and the internet did what it always does when a big name nods at a big number: it treated it like a price prediction.

Lee, being a chairman of BitMine Immersion, reacted with "love this," a quote-post to an image that claimed 2026 ATH targets of $250,000 for Bitcoin, $20,000 for Ethereum and $1,500 for Solana, and framed them as “outputs” rather than opinions.

Interestingly, the prediction quickly gained its own warning label with a community note that says the referenced forum post number is outside the board’s current range for December 2025 and that archive checks found no match, so the viral “anon” source appears invented.

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In the meantime, BitMine’s treasury currently contains $11.83 billion in crypto value with 4,066,062 ETH versus 192 BTC, a 99.86% ETH allocation by value. It is so big that every $1,000 move in ETH marks that pile-up by about $4.07 billion on paper, which explains why a moonshot headline gets a nod from Lee.

What if?If ETH actually prints $20,000, BitMine’s 4,066,062 ETH would be valued at about $81.32 billion. On the same dashboard by CoinGecko, the Ethereum line is shown around $11.82 billion, so the upside from that ETH-only stack would be about +$69.5 billion on paper, before counting the separate 192 BTC position.

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The fakeness of the prediction does not stop the narrative from being tradeable. It still plants a ceiling number for people to anchor to and sells the idea that ETH is the treasury asset of this cycle, while propping up equity proxies like BMNR when crypto chatter spills over into stocks.

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Alvin Lang
Dec 26, 2025 17:24

Polygon (MATIC) trades sideways at $0.38 with minimal volatility as RSI holds neutral territory while price remains below key moving averages in thin holiday volume conditions.

Quick Take
• MATIC trading at $0.38 (down 0.3% in 24h)
• No significant catalysts driving price action during holiday period
• Testing lower Bollinger Band support while RSI remains neutral
• Following broader crypto weakness with Bitcoin declining

Market Events Driving Polygon Price Movement
Trading on technical factors in absence of major catalysts, with no significant news events in the past 48 hours affecting MATIC price directly. The modest 0.29% decline reflects the broader cryptocurrency market's subdued performance during the post-Christmas trading session, where institutional activity typically remains muted.

The lack of substantial volume at 1.07 million on Binance spot markets indicates reduced retail and institutional participation, typical for this time of year. Without fresh fundamental developments, Polygon technical analysis becomes the primary driver for short-term price direction as traders focus on chart patterns and support levels.

MATIC Technical Analysis: Consolidation Phase Below Moving Averages
Price Action Context
MATIC price currently sits well below its key moving averages, with the 20-day SMA at $0.43 representing the nearest resistance level. The token trades approximately 45% below its 200-day moving average of $0.69, indicating a prolonged bearish trend that has yet to show signs of meaningful reversal.

The current positioning near the lower Bollinger Band at $0.31 suggests MATIC is approaching oversold territory, though the %B reading of 0.29 indicates room for further downside before reaching extreme levels. Volume remains subdued compared to historical averages, limiting the significance of current price movements.

Key Technical Indicators
The 14-period RSI at 38.00 sits in neutral territory, neither oversold nor overbought, providing limited directional bias for immediate trading decisions. This reading suggests accumulation could occur if buyers emerge at current levels, though momentum remains weak.

MACD readings show continued bearish momentum with the histogram at -0.0045, indicating selling pressure persists despite the relatively modest daily decline. The stochastic oscillator readings (%K at 25.19, %D at 19.74) suggest potential for a technical bounce if support levels hold firm.

Critical Price Levels for Polygon Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $0.43 (20-day moving average acting as dynamic resistance)
• Support: $0.35 (immediate technical support before stronger level)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break below the $0.35 support level could trigger a test of the stronger $0.33 support zone, potentially leading to new 52-week lows if selling intensifies. Conversely, a reclaim above the $0.43 resistance would signal the first meaningful technical improvement in weeks, potentially targeting the $0.45 level where the 50-day moving average resides.

MATIC Correlation Analysis
• Bitcoin: Following the broader crypto market weakness as Bitcoin trades lower, maintaining typical correlation patterns
• Traditional markets: Limited correlation visibility during holiday trading with reduced market participation
• Sector peers: Performing in line with other Layer 2 solutions amid general altcoin weakness

Trading Outlook: Polygon Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
A sustained hold above $0.35 support combined with increasing volume could signal accumulation, particularly if Bitcoin stabilizes. The oversold technical condition creates potential for a relief rally toward $0.43-$0.45 resistance cluster if broader market sentiment improves in early 2026.

Bearish Case
Failure to hold $0.35 support on increased volume could accelerate selling toward the $0.33 strong support level. Extended weakness below this zone would likely target new yearly lows, particularly if cryptocurrency markets face continued pressure from macroeconomic factors.

Risk Management
Conservative traders should consider stop-losses below $0.33 to limit downside exposure, while position sizing should account for the elevated volatility indicated by the 14-day ATR of $0.03. Current thin volume conditions suggest avoiding large positions until clearer directional momentum emerges.

Image source: Shutterstock

matic price analysis
matic price prediction

Cardano delivered a less-than-festive gift to investors this Christmas, with price action painting a grim picture as the token remains deep in the red.

Summary

Charles Hoskinson is pushing back against claims that he abandoned the ADA token, which is down 58% year-to-date.
The technical picture remains bearish as ADA is trapped in a downtrend, struggling to reclaim $0.36.
So far, December losses are about 15%, and Coinglass data shows a year-long pattern of capital exiting ADA.

Founder Charles Hoskinson found himself fending off accusations on X after wishing followers a Merry Christmas on Dec. 25. In his post, Hoskinson described 2025 as a “long, hard year,” urged the community not to let the “fire go out,” and promised that “next year will be better”—a message that landed awkwardly with ADA down 58% year-to-date.

It’s been a long, hard year—but don’t let the fire go out. There’s a lot to look forward to in 2026. Merry Christmas, and much love to all our friends and family. Next year will be better. pic.twitter.com/LAbJVkjAgs

— Charles Hoskinson (@IOHK_Charles) December 25, 2025

It didn’t take long for the holiday cheer to evaporate. One X user accused Hoskinson of selling ADA near the $3 peak and now refusing to buy back at current levels around $0.30–$0.36. The critic questioned how investors could maintain faith in the project if its founder won’t step in at depressed prices.

Hoskinson responded swiftly, flatly denying that he ever sold ADA at $3. Repeating the claim, he said, doesn’t make it true. He brushed off the accusations as misinformation amplified by bots, dismissing the narrative entirely.

Technical analysis
The timing of the spat is notable. ADA has shed 58% so far this year, including a 15% drop in December alone. Technically, the chart hasn’t been kind. See below.

Source: CoinGecko
Bulls are attempting to hold the line, but follow-through has been weak, with ADA failing to reclaim $0.36 on rallies.

The critical zone to watch remains $0.3380–$0.34. A breakdown there could open the door to accelerated selling toward $0.30–$0.32, where historical support is thin. On the upside, resistance waits at $0.3750–$0.38, followed by heavier supply around $0.40–$0.41.

Cardano reinforces year-long trend of steady selling pressure
According to data from DefiLlama, the total value locked across all DeFi protocols built on the blockchain dropped to $215.5 million from its August high of $544 million. Declining TVL hints at lower user participation and could point to investors losing confidence in the network’s growth potential.

The total market cap of stablecoins on the blockchain has also dropped, from a November high of $40.48 million to $37.68 million at press time.

Leveraged traders have also seemed to have lost interest in the token. Data from CoinGlass shows that ADA Futures open interest has dropped from $1.72 billion observed in October to $651 million when writing.

Together, these deteriorating metrics have kept investors cautious and sentiment fragile, which has weighed heavily on price performance.

XRP (CRYPTO: XRP) is down 48% from its $3.65 peak in July peak, despite Ripple Labs spending $2.7 billion in 2025 on acquiring a prime brokerage, treasury management, and stablecoin infrastructure.

SEC Settlement Ended Four-Year BattleRipple's transformation began after it settled its four-year legal battle with the U.S. SEC.

In August, both sides dropped their appeals, reinforcing a 2023 ruling that separated institutional XRP sales from retail activity.

The move lifted a long-standing regulatory overhang that had limited Ripple's growth since 2020 and coincided with a broader shift toward a more Trump's crypto-friendly U.S. policy stance.

The $2.7B Acquisition SpreeRipple's 2025 strategy centered on acquisitions rather than XRP price action, with roughly $2.7 billion deployed to build a full-stack financial platform. 

The company spent $1.25 billion in April to acquire Hidden Road, rebranded as Ripple Prime, making it the first crypto firm to own a global multi-asset prime broker.

Since acquisition, Ripple Prime’s business reportedly grew 3x.

In October, Ripple added GTreasury for $1 billion, gaining enterprise access to Fortune 500 clients such as American Airlines Group Inc., Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., and Volvo AB, along with exposure to more than $12.5 trillion in annual payment flows.

Smaller deals included Rail for $200 million in August and wallet provider Palisade, completing Ripple's shift beyond payments into broader financial services.

RLUSD Stablecoin Hits $1.3B Market CapRipple’s dollar-backed stablecoin RLUSD launched in December 2024 but gained momentum throughout 2025, reaching a $1.3 billion market cap by year-end. 

That ranks it as the 11th largest stablecoin despite being less than a year old.

Key developments include a partnership with Mastercard Inc., for credit card settlements and regulatory approval in Singapore.

In December, Ripple also received conditional approval for a National Bank Charter from the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, with reserves held at Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

XRP ETFs Generated $1B In Inflows Despite Price DropXRP joined the ETF market in 2025, with the first product from Rex Shares and Osprey Funds debuting with $38 million in day-one volume. 

Subsequently, spot ETFs from Canary Capital, Grayscale, Bitwise, and Franklin Templeton entered the market.

By December, XRP spot ETFs generated nearly $1 billion in net inflows without a single day of outflows through mid-December. 

Additionally, ETF assets under management crossed $1.25 billion by late December, making XRP the fastest cryptocurrency to reach the $1 billion ETF milestone since Ethereum’s (CRYPTO: ETH) ETF launch.

However, the institutional demand through ETFs didn’t translate to surging prices.

Native Lending Coming To XRP LedgerRipple plans to roll out native lending on the XRP Ledger in 2026 through XRPL Version 3.0.0, shifting the network beyond payments into institutional-grade DeFi. 

Ripple engineer Edward Hennis said the amendments are expected to enter validator voting in late January 2026, allowing market makers to borrow XRP or RLUSD and holders to earn yield by lending to credit facilities.

Apart from this, RippleNet has expanded to more than 300 banks and financial institutions as of November 2025.

That same month, Ripple raised $500 million from global investors at a $40 billion valuation, which CEO Brad Garlinghouse described as a clear endorsement of the company's long-term growth strategy.

Read Next:

‘I Didn’t Dump’, Cardano Founder Says: Does It Matter If ADA Is Down 58% In 2025?
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A pundit has stirred conversation in the crypto community by suggesting that XRP holders could see unprecedented wealth, potentially reaching millionaire or billionaire status. He cites the evolving crypto regulatory landscape in the United States (US) and XRP’s potential to play a significant financial role in the economy, which could drive strong demand and value growth for the altcoin. 

Why XRP Holders Are Poised For Extraordinary Wealth
Joshua Dalton, the founder of Triblu, an unfunded IT services company, predicted in an X post that XRP holders could become millionaires, billionaires, trillionaires, and even quadrillionaires. He stated that while Bitcoin enthusiasts, including Strategy founder Michael Saylor, may see little to no gains from the token in the future, community members are uniquely positioned to achieve extraordinary wealth. 

In his post, Dalton characterized the altcoin as a unique opportunity for financial growth, potentially surpassing what Bitcoin offers. Trading at just $1.86 compared with Bitcoin’s value of more than $88,000, XRP’s low price gives its investors a notable advantage. This affordability could prove especially beneficial to creating wealth if the cryptocurrency experiences a major price surge in the future. 

In Dalton’s case, the focus is not on price differences but on the potential impact the token could have on the US economy if it becomes a reserve currency. He argued that Bitcoin cannot serve as the official currency for the US reserves because its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, remains unknown. He also suggested that Bitcoin could potentially be controlled or operated by China, making it untrustworthy and unreliable for national financial purposes.

On the other hand, the Triblu founder noted that the government can fully trust XRP because it is operated by Ripple and entirely based in the United States. Dalton emphasized that, unlike Bitcoin, the altcoin has the capacity to address the national challenges, including the roughly $38 trillion debt crisis. He framed it as a more reliable and strategically valuable asset for the country, highlighting its capacity to support large-scale economic stability in ways that Bitcoin cannot. 

XRP’s Potential Amid Evolving US Regulations
Dalton’s remarks about XRP being a better reserve currency than Bitcoin for the US come amid evolving regulatory developments in the country. In January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a national reserve for Bitcoin and other altcoins, fueling rumors that the token could be included in the reserve. 

Additionally, this year, the US House of Representatives has passed multiple crypto-related bills, including the CLARITY ACT, GENIUS ACT, and the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act. These legislative measures are expected to positively influence the regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies, potentially fostering wider adoption, increasing investor confidence, and creating a more stable environment for digital assets. 

This is particularly significant for XRP, especially following the resolution of its legal battle with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which has strengthened its legitimacy and growth prospects.

XRP trading at $1.86 on the 1D chart | Source: XRPUSDT on Tradingview.com
Featured image from Getty Images, chart from Tradingview.com

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Banks have mostly stayed on the sidelines when it comes to holding XRP directly, even as interest in digital assets continues to increase. That hesitation has not been due to a lack of utility or demand but to strict regulatory capital rules that made holding XRP economically impractical for regulated institutions.

However, a small adjustment in how XRP is treated under global banking rules could remove that barrier and change how banks interact with the cryptocurrency.

Why Banks Can’t Hold XRP
The main obstacle preventing banks from holding XRP has been its treatment under the global banking framework known as Basel III. Basel III is an international regulatory framework developed after the 2008 financial crisis that introduces higher quality and quantity of capital requirements in the international banking sector. 

Right now, XRP currently falls into the Type 2 crypto exposure under Basel III, which is set up with rules for assets that pose higher risks. Under these rules, most cryptocurrencies, including XRP, fall into a high-risk category that carries a punitive capital requirement. Banks are required to apply a 1,250% risk weight to such assets, implying they must set aside far more capital than the value of the XRP itself.

This means that under the Basel III framework, for every $1 of XRP exposure, a bank must hold $12.50 in capital. This dynamic was recently explained by a crypto commentator with the name Stern Drew on the social media platform X. 

In a post on X, Drew explained that this capital inefficiency alone accounts for years of institutional hesitation. The issue has not been demand nor technology, but the regulatory capital treatment that made holding XRP irrational from a balance sheet perspective.

Source: X
The Regulatory Inflection Point
The conversation around XRP’s regulatory status is becoming increasingly important to its long-term outlook. Interestingly, Drew’s analysis goes further by pointing to what he describes as an inflection point that markets may be overlooking. Now that legal and regulatory clarity surrounding cryptocurrencies is improving, XRP could be reclassified into a lower-risk category under Basel III.

The endgame is that XRP is on a clear path to becoming a Tier-1 digital asset for global institutions, which is mostly for tokenized traditional assets and stablecoins with strong mechanisms.  If that reclassification occurs, the economics will change immediately. XRP would become acceptable for direct balance sheet exposure, allowing banks to custody, deploy, and settle using the asset without the need of excessive capital. 

This is not a discussion about short-term price movements but about capital mechanics that determine whether large pools of institutional money can participate in holding XRP at all. In this case, liquidity provisioning of XRP by banks would change from off-balance-sheet usage to direct institutional ownership.

Price continues to struggle | Source: XRPUSDT on Tradingview.com
Featured image created with Dall.E, chart from Tradingview.com

// Price

Reading time: 2 min

Published: Dec 26, 2025 at 17:18
Updated: Dec 26, 2025 at 17:25

Currently, TRON has slipped below the moving average lines after being rejected at the recent high.

TRX price long-term forecast: ranging

Since November 4, the TRON price has held above the $0.27 threshold, halting its previous decline. The altcoin has traded within a range of $0.27 to $0.29 over the past month. Buyers have pushed the price above the moving average lines three times, but each attempt was rejected at the $0.29 resistance. If buyers succeed, TRON could revisit its previous highs of $0.33 and $0.35.

The price is expected to decline and retest the $0.27 support. So far, sellers have not resumed significant pressure below the current $0.27 support level. At present, the altcoin is valued at $0.279.

Technical Indicators

Key Resistance Zones: $0.40, $0.45, and $0.50

Key Support Zones: $0.20, $0.15, and $0.10

TRON price indicator analysis

The price bars have fluctuated both below and above the horizontal moving average lines. The price action is characterised by Doji candlesticks, indicating traders' indecision about the market direction. On the 4-hour chart, the cryptocurrency trades below the horizontal moving average lines.

What is the next move for TRON?

TRON's price is moving sideways above the $0.27 support. On the 4-hour chart, the price has fallen below the moving average lines for the third time. The sideways trend is likely to continue if the altcoin declines but remains above the $0.27 support. However, if the current support is broken, the price could fall as low as $0.25.

Disclaimer. This analysis and forecast are the personal opinions of the author. The data provided is collected by the author and is not sponsored by any company or token developer. This is not a recommendation to buy or sell cryptocurrency and should not be viewed as an endorsement by Coinidol.com. Readers should do their research before investing in funds.

Zcash's shielded supply market share has held steady around 23% after a notable climb from approximately 8% at the start of 2025. While hype around Zcash's native ZEC token has normalized, privacy adoption metrics have stabilized rather than reversed, indicating sustained interest in privacy-preserving transactions.

This stabilization follows a period of sharp growth earlier in the year, when privacy solutions captured significant mindshare across the cryptocurrency community. The current levels suggest users who adopted privacy features have largely remained engaged with them.

Privacy development has expanded beyond Zcash, with other projects capturing renewed attention and price performance. Projects like Monero have seen notable gains, indicating that interest in privacy solutions is spreading across multiple implementations rather than concentrating in a single protocol. Development activity also accelerated across different ecosystems and blockchains, with various teams working on privacy-enhancing features tailored to their specific platforms.

The privacy narrative appears positioned for continued relevance into 2026, driven by practical adoption needs rather than speculative momentum. As stablecoin payments and mainstream onchain transactions increase, privacy requirements become more apparent. The transparency of public blockchains creates friction for everyday payments. Using an onchain wallet for transactions exposes your complete wallet balance and transaction history to counterparties, creating obvious privacy concerns in commercial and personal contexts.

This fundamental tension between blockchain transparency and user privacy suggests privacy solutions will remain relevant as cryptocurrency moves toward practical payment applications, even if speculative attention cycles through other narratives.

This is an excerpt from The Block's Data & Insights newsletter. Dig into the numbers making up the industry's most thought-provoking trends.

Disclaimer: The Block is an independent media outlet that delivers news, research, and data. As of November 2023, Foresight Ventures is a majority investor of The Block. Foresight Ventures invests in other companies in the crypto space. Crypto exchange Bitget is an anchor LP for Foresight Ventures. The Block continues to operate independently to deliver objective, impactful, and timely information about the crypto industry. Here are our current financial disclosures.

© 2025 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

HomeEarnings AnalysisConsumer 

SummaryDarden Restaurants remains a solid 'Buy', leveraging scale and multi-brand diversification to outperform peers despite beef-driven margin compression.DRI's updated FY 2026 guidance raises sales to $13.1–$13.2 billion, with EBITDA margin expected at 13.5–14.5%, reflecting ongoing commodity headwinds.Capital returns remain robust, with $1.18 billion returned in the last twelve months and long-term EPS growth targeted at 6–10% annually.My price target is $215, implying 13.2% upside, with total return potential near 20% when including dividends and buybacks. wildpixel/iStock via Getty Images

Growing faster than the market, yet getting squeezed by high beef prices.

That pretty much sums up Darden Restaurants, Inc.’ (DRI) quarter and, to a degree, the broader casual dining crowd that leans heavily on meat-centric

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.