59 mins. ago
The name "351 Exchange" comes from Section 351 of the Internal Revenue Code ("IRC"). Section 351 permits a person to contribute appreciated property in exchange for shares of a newly formed corporation without recognizing a taxable event at the time of transfer, if certain rules are met.
In this application, the property being contributed is shares of stock or ETFs, in exchange for shares of a newly formed corporation, a new ETF.
To qualify, here are a few rules:
1) The contributor must be an eligible participant. In short, most can participate, but C corporations can cause issues, so they are generally excluded.
2) Each contributor must contribute a diversified portfolio. Diversification is defined by the IRS with two tests applied to each contributor's portfolio: Of the contributed portfolio, (1) the weight of the largest position must be no more than 25%, and (2) the sum of the weights of the top 5 positions must be no more than 50%.
#exchange #shares #section #contribute
In this application, the property being contributed is shares of stock or ETFs, in exchange for shares of a newly formed corporation, a new ETF.
To qualify, here are a few rules:
1) The contributor must be an eligible participant. In short, most can participate, but C corporations can cause issues, so they are generally excluded.
2) Each contributor must contribute a diversified portfolio. Diversification is defined by the IRS with two tests applied to each contributor's portfolio: Of the contributed portfolio, (1) the weight of the largest position must be no more than 25%, and (2) the sum of the weights of the top 5 positions must be no more than 50%.
#exchange #shares #section #contribute
1 hr. ago
Core & Main, Inc. (NYSE:CNM) reported quarterly sales of $2.145 billion on September 9, up 2.5%. Company-defined non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA reached $274 million. The measure adjusts consolidated net income for interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, equity compensation, debt modification and extinguishment losses, offering expenses, and specified other income or expenses.
Consolidated net income rose 6.4% to $150 million, while GAAP diluted earnings per share increased 10% to $0.77. Diluted weighted-average shares declined approximately 2.5% to 193.4 million. Buybacks amplified an improvement that also had an operating foundation.
The company repurchased $169 million of equity during the quarter, against $62 million of operating cash flow. The investment question is whether cash generation can sustain capital returns alongside the spending needed to grow.
Core & Main, Inc. (NYSE:CNM) benefits from demand for essential infrastructure products. Management highlighted municipal demand, fire protection, treatment plants, and data centers as areas of strength. These end markets provide several sources of business even when construction demand is uneven.
Expense discipline also helped. Quarterly selling, general and administrative expenses declined to $301 million from $302 million. Controlling overhead allows modest sales growth to contribute more to earnings. Stronger volumes would make further earnings gains easier to sustain.
#income #main #quarterly
Consolidated net income rose 6.4% to $150 million, while GAAP diluted earnings per share increased 10% to $0.77. Diluted weighted-average shares declined approximately 2.5% to 193.4 million. Buybacks amplified an improvement that also had an operating foundation.
The company repurchased $169 million of equity during the quarter, against $62 million of operating cash flow. The investment question is whether cash generation can sustain capital returns alongside the spending needed to grow.
Core & Main, Inc. (NYSE:CNM) benefits from demand for essential infrastructure products. Management highlighted municipal demand, fire protection, treatment plants, and data centers as areas of strength. These end markets provide several sources of business even when construction demand is uneven.
Expense discipline also helped. Quarterly selling, general and administrative expenses declined to $301 million from $302 million. Controlling overhead allows modest sales growth to contribute more to earnings. Stronger volumes would make further earnings gains easier to sustain.
#income #main #quarterly
2 hours ago
Sunbelt Rentals Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:SUNB) reported on September 9 that fiscal first-quarter revenue increased 11.2% to $3.115 billion, including $2.927 billion of rental revenue, up 12.5%. The quarter ended July 31, 2026.
Management raised fiscal 2027 rental-revenue growth guidance to 7% through 10%, while increasing planned net rental-equipment capital expenditures to $2.4 billion through $2.8 billion. Demand supports expansion, but investors need to ****** s how much cash remains after funding the fleet.
North America Specialty rental revenue grew 25.3%, giving Sunbelt Rentals Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:SUNB) a strong source of growth beyond general equipment rentals. Specialized services can deepen customer relationships and create opportunities to supply several needs on the same project.
The company estimated that the FIFA World Cup contributed 2.5 percentage points to quarterly rental-revenue growth. Serving complex events demonstrates the commercial value of a broad equipment network. The investment opportunity is to turn that capability into recurring work across industrial, energy and construction customers.
Adjusted EBITDA increased 8.7% to $1.315 billion. This company-defined non-GAAP measure adds taxes, net interest, depreciation, amortization, stock-based compensation and specified restructuring costs to net income. Its margin is adjusted EBITDA divided by revenue.
#rentals
Management raised fiscal 2027 rental-revenue growth guidance to 7% through 10%, while increasing planned net rental-equipment capital expenditures to $2.4 billion through $2.8 billion. Demand supports expansion, but investors need to ****** s how much cash remains after funding the fleet.
North America Specialty rental revenue grew 25.3%, giving Sunbelt Rentals Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:SUNB) a strong source of growth beyond general equipment rentals. Specialized services can deepen customer relationships and create opportunities to supply several needs on the same project.
The company estimated that the FIFA World Cup contributed 2.5 percentage points to quarterly rental-revenue growth. Serving complex events demonstrates the commercial value of a broad equipment network. The investment opportunity is to turn that capability into recurring work across industrial, energy and construction customers.
Adjusted EBITDA increased 8.7% to $1.315 billion. This company-defined non-GAAP measure adds taxes, net interest, depreciation, amortization, stock-based compensation and specified restructuring costs to net income. Its margin is adjusted EBITDA divided by revenue.
#rentals
2 hours ago
A UTMA custodial account requires no attorney, costs nothing to open, and lets married couples contribute $38,000 annually per grandchild without triggering gift-tax reporting.
VOO anchors the portfolio at 60-70% with a 0.03% expense ratio, while SCHG's 447% 10-year return earns it a 20-25% growth slice.
Custodial account funds legally become the grandchild's property at 18 or 21, so grandparents who want spending control should use a 529 instead.
Read More: Avoid these 13 retirement mistakes before they derail your future (sponsor)
You want to hand each grandchild a serious head start without the complicated legal setup. Skip the trust attorney. A custodial account under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) can be opened in an afternoon at any major brokerage, and three low-cost ETFs can do the work for the next 15 to 20 years: the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:VOO), the Schwab U.S. Large-Cap Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:SCHG), and the iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:IEMG). Three tickers, one account per grandchild, and time on your side.
#custodial #three
VOO anchors the portfolio at 60-70% with a 0.03% expense ratio, while SCHG's 447% 10-year return earns it a 20-25% growth slice.
Custodial account funds legally become the grandchild's property at 18 or 21, so grandparents who want spending control should use a 529 instead.
Read More: Avoid these 13 retirement mistakes before they derail your future (sponsor)
You want to hand each grandchild a serious head start without the complicated legal setup. Skip the trust attorney. A custodial account under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) can be opened in an afternoon at any major brokerage, and three low-cost ETFs can do the work for the next 15 to 20 years: the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:VOO), the Schwab U.S. Large-Cap Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:SCHG), and the iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:IEMG). Three tickers, one account per grandchild, and time on your side.
#custodial #three
6 hours ago
At 60, Stephen has $40,000 saved against a $680,000 benchmark, plus $32,000 in debt draining his recovery runway.
Rachel Cruze and George Kamel told Stephen to stop funding his daughter and eliminate debt before rebuilding retirement savings.
Workers aged 60 to 63 can contribute up to $35,750 annually to a 401(k), a catch-up window that Stephen must use before it closes at age 64.
Read More: Learn 7 ways to generate income with a $1,000,000+ portfolio (sponsor)
A 60-year-old caller named Stephen phoned The Ramsey Show from Portland and laid out a balance sheet that would make anyone flinch: $40,000 left in retirement, no liquid savings, a $27,000 loan on a 4Runner worth about what he owes, $5,000 in credit card debt, and an $85,000 salary he took after quitting a more stressful job. He said he had drained the retirement account to put his daughter through school and pay off a $25,000 IRS bill he insists "wasn't mine."
#stephen #Retirement #workers
Rachel Cruze and George Kamel told Stephen to stop funding his daughter and eliminate debt before rebuilding retirement savings.
Workers aged 60 to 63 can contribute up to $35,750 annually to a 401(k), a catch-up window that Stephen must use before it closes at age 64.
Read More: Learn 7 ways to generate income with a $1,000,000+ portfolio (sponsor)
A 60-year-old caller named Stephen phoned The Ramsey Show from Portland and laid out a balance sheet that would make anyone flinch: $40,000 left in retirement, no liquid savings, a $27,000 loan on a 4Runner worth about what he owes, $5,000 in credit card debt, and an $85,000 salary he took after quitting a more stressful job. He said he had drained the retirement account to put his daughter through school and pay off a $25,000 IRS bill he insists "wasn't mine."
#stephen #Retirement #workers
8 hours ago
With a market cap of $48 billion, Entergy Corporation (ETR) is an energy company that generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to millions of customers across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. The company focuses on providing reliable and affordable energy while investing in a more resilient and cleaner energy system through natural gas, nuclear, and renewable generation.
Companies valued at $10 billion or more are generally considered "large-cap" stocks, and Entergy fits this criterion perfectly. Entergy also contributes to the communities it serves through philanthropy, volunteerism, and advocacy, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and corporate citizenship.
Billionaire Charlie Munger, Who Died at 99, Skipped Insurance on His Mansion Since He Could Just Write a Check to Rebuild — 'All Intelligent People Do It My Way'
The Case for Selling CrowdStrike Stock
Dear Tesla Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for October 1
#energy #company
Companies valued at $10 billion or more are generally considered "large-cap" stocks, and Entergy fits this criterion perfectly. Entergy also contributes to the communities it serves through philanthropy, volunteerism, and advocacy, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and corporate citizenship.
Billionaire Charlie Munger, Who Died at 99, Skipped Insurance on His Mansion Since He Could Just Write a Check to Rebuild — 'All Intelligent People Do It My Way'
The Case for Selling CrowdStrike Stock
Dear Tesla Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for October 1
#energy #company
12 hours ago
Interested in American Airlines Group Inc.? Here are five stocks we like better.
Demand remains strong: American Airlines expects third-quarter revenue growth of 16% to 19%, with broad-based strength across corporate, international, domestic, premium and coach travel.
Fuel costs threaten profitability: Fourth-quarter fuel prices have risen about $1 per gallon in four weeks, potentially adding roughly $1 billion to quarterly fuel expense and prompting possible capacity reductions.
Long-term growth initiatives continue: American is expanding premium seating, rebuilding its network and growing its AAdvantage-Citi co-brand partnership, which it expects could contribute $1.5 billion in pretax profit by 2030.
Flight Path to Profits: American Airlines Bets on ****** eX
#airlines #quarter #Growth #group
Demand remains strong: American Airlines expects third-quarter revenue growth of 16% to 19%, with broad-based strength across corporate, international, domestic, premium and coach travel.
Fuel costs threaten profitability: Fourth-quarter fuel prices have risen about $1 per gallon in four weeks, potentially adding roughly $1 billion to quarterly fuel expense and prompting possible capacity reductions.
Long-term growth initiatives continue: American is expanding premium seating, rebuilding its network and growing its AAdvantage-Citi co-brand partnership, which it expects could contribute $1.5 billion in pretax profit by 2030.
Flight Path to Profits: American Airlines Bets on ****** eX
#airlines #quarter #Growth #group
15 hours ago
US stock futures moved higher on Wednesday as investors awaited the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision. Oil prices declined following an unexpected increase in US inventories, while developments involving Meta and OpenAI remained in focus.
At 07:12 GMT, Dow futures were up 129 points, or 0.3%. S&P 500 futures gained 21 points, or 0.3%, while Nasdaq 100 futures advanced 145 points, or 0.5%.
Wall Street's main indices had declined in the previous session as US government bond yields approached two-decade highs. Higher oil prices, linked to the widening conflict in the Middle East, contributed to concerns about inflation and further monetary policy tightening.
Analysts at Vital Knowledge described a feedback mechanism in which rising oil prices push bond yields higher, affect investor sentiment and increase pressure on central banks to raise interest rates.
Markets broadly anticipated a 25-basis-point interest rate increase at the conclusion of the Federal Open Market Committee's two-day meeting.
#higher #interest #prices #rate
At 07:12 GMT, Dow futures were up 129 points, or 0.3%. S&P 500 futures gained 21 points, or 0.3%, while Nasdaq 100 futures advanced 145 points, or 0.5%.
Wall Street's main indices had declined in the previous session as US government bond yields approached two-decade highs. Higher oil prices, linked to the widening conflict in the Middle East, contributed to concerns about inflation and further monetary policy tightening.
Analysts at Vital Knowledge described a feedback mechanism in which rising oil prices push bond yields higher, affect investor sentiment and increase pressure on central banks to raise interest rates.
Markets broadly anticipated a 25-basis-point interest rate increase at the conclusion of the Federal Open Market Committee's two-day meeting.
#higher #interest #prices #rate
1 day ago
Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) has been on a historic run over the past five years, outperforming similarly sized peers in the pharmaceutical industry and becoming the first healthcare stock to reach a $1 trillion market cap. The company's diabetes and weight-loss portfolio has been the main engine behind its terrific performance of late, and it remains strong. During the second quarter, Eli Lilly's revenue jumped 48% year over year to $23 billion, while adjusted earnings per share rose 33% year over year to $8.38.
Sales from Eli Lilly's Mounjaro, a diabetes medicine, soared 91% year over year to $9.9 billion, while sales of Zepbound, approved for weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea, grew 46% to $4.9 billion. Can anything stop Eli Lilly's momentum? Here's one thing that might do so.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Eli Lilly generates most of its revenue from Mounjaro and Zepbound, which have the same active ingredient, tirzepatide, a medicine that mimics the action of the GLP-1 and GIP gut hormones. In the second quarter, sales from these two medicines accounted for almost 65% of the company's top line. Eli Lilly also markets Foundayo, an oral GLP-1 approved for weight loss, although it was approved in April and doesn't yet contribute much to its financial results.
Still, the point is that Eli Lilly's lineup is concentrated at the top, with just a couple of brands responsible for most of the recent momentum. Other pharmaceutical giants are well aware of Eli Lilly's GLP-1 success, and they are seeking to launch competing therapies.
#lilly #sales #loss #billion
Sales from Eli Lilly's Mounjaro, a diabetes medicine, soared 91% year over year to $9.9 billion, while sales of Zepbound, approved for weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea, grew 46% to $4.9 billion. Can anything stop Eli Lilly's momentum? Here's one thing that might do so.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Eli Lilly generates most of its revenue from Mounjaro and Zepbound, which have the same active ingredient, tirzepatide, a medicine that mimics the action of the GLP-1 and GIP gut hormones. In the second quarter, sales from these two medicines accounted for almost 65% of the company's top line. Eli Lilly also markets Foundayo, an oral GLP-1 approved for weight loss, although it was approved in April and doesn't yet contribute much to its financial results.
Still, the point is that Eli Lilly's lineup is concentrated at the top, with just a couple of brands responsible for most of the recent momentum. Other pharmaceutical giants are well aware of Eli Lilly's GLP-1 success, and they are seeking to launch competing therapies.
#lilly #sales #loss #billion
1 day ago
Coca-Cola announced plans Tuesday to invest $10 billion in U.S. infrastructure between 2026 and 2030, covering new and expanded production, distribution and office facilities across the country.
That $10 billion commitment is calculated across the full Coca-Cola system — meaning it rolls in spending by bottling partners and is not limited to the parent company's own capital budget, according to Reuters. In July, the company forecast its own capital expenditure at approximately $2.2 billion for the fiscal year. Projects covered by the broader $10 billion commitment include previously announced work in Rancho Cucamonga, California; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Indianapolis, Indiana; Birmingham, Alabama; Coopersville, Michigan; St. Cloud, Minnesota; Orlando, Florida; and Webster, New York, the company said.
The announcement accompanied an independently commissioned study measuring the Coca-Cola system's 2025 economic contributions in the United States. The study found the system contributed $85 billion to U.S. gross domestic product — roughly $10 million in economic activity per hour — and supported nearly 1 million jobs, the company said. Rounding out the economic picture, the system directed roughly $37 billion toward American suppliers and channeled $177 million into community initiatives via The Coca-Cola Foundation and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.
"This ****** sment reinforces what we see every day: the Coca-Cola system is deeply rooted in America and continues to deliver meaningful value for the people and communities we serve," John Murphy, president and chief financial officer of The Coca-Cola Company, said in a statement.
The company said its production network spans more than 70 facilities and hundreds of distribution centers across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, with the system's economic contributions exceeding $1 billion in 25 states. The study was conducted by Steward Redqueen.
#billion #economic #across #study
That $10 billion commitment is calculated across the full Coca-Cola system — meaning it rolls in spending by bottling partners and is not limited to the parent company's own capital budget, according to Reuters. In July, the company forecast its own capital expenditure at approximately $2.2 billion for the fiscal year. Projects covered by the broader $10 billion commitment include previously announced work in Rancho Cucamonga, California; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Indianapolis, Indiana; Birmingham, Alabama; Coopersville, Michigan; St. Cloud, Minnesota; Orlando, Florida; and Webster, New York, the company said.
The announcement accompanied an independently commissioned study measuring the Coca-Cola system's 2025 economic contributions in the United States. The study found the system contributed $85 billion to U.S. gross domestic product — roughly $10 million in economic activity per hour — and supported nearly 1 million jobs, the company said. Rounding out the economic picture, the system directed roughly $37 billion toward American suppliers and channeled $177 million into community initiatives via The Coca-Cola Foundation and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.
"This ****** sment reinforces what we see every day: the Coca-Cola system is deeply rooted in America and continues to deliver meaningful value for the people and communities we serve," John Murphy, president and chief financial officer of The Coca-Cola Company, said in a statement.
The company said its production network spans more than 70 facilities and hundreds of distribution centers across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, with the system's economic contributions exceeding $1 billion in 25 states. The study was conducted by Steward Redqueen.
#billion #economic #across #study
1 day ago
On September 10, Imperial Petroleum Inc. (NASDAQ:IMPP), a company involved in seaborne transportation of crude oil, dry bulk, and petroleum products, released its second quarter results. With a topline figure of $87.1 million, the company delivered record quarterly revenue, which also resulted in 139.9% year-over-year growth. Imperial's adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter stood at $41.7 million, while the Q2 adjusted net income of $35.3 million exhibited around 163% growth in comparison with Q2 FY25.
Ralf Gosch/Shutterstock.com
Several factors contributed to the second quarter topline growth. A 6.9 vessel rise in the company's average fleet size was the primary growth enabler. Other factors include encouraging dynamics across the drybulk segment, and higher rates for both drybulk and tankers amid the geopolitical uncertainties. Operating income for the quarter jumped to a near-record level of $33.4 million, which translates into a 307.3% growth relative to Q2 FY25. Imperial posted an adjusted EPS of $0.76 for the reported quarter, which almost doubled compared to the same quarter a year prior.
At the back of efficient fleet management, management remained focus on strengthening its financial position. The company ended the quarter with no debt, and its liquidity position also remained resilient. Cash and cash equivalents, including time deposits, increased from $179.1 million at the end of 2025 to $245.2 million as of June 30, 2026. The company added that its cash base had increased further to approximately $260 million as of the September 10 results release.
Certain areas of weakness warrant a closer examination. During the reported quarter, fleet operational utilization went down from 83.1% in prior year's second quarter to 73.5%. There was a substantial increase in some of the underlying operating expenses. For instance, the vessel operating expense stood at $14.4 million compared to $8.4 million during Q2 FY25. This $6 million rise can be attributed to Imperial's larger fleet size. Similarly, the voyage expenses also jumped from $10.7 million in last year's Q2 to $22.1 million for Q2 FY26. The incremental voyage expenses stemmed from higher bunkers' rates, as well as a 58.4% jump in spot days.
#fleet
Ralf Gosch/Shutterstock.com
Several factors contributed to the second quarter topline growth. A 6.9 vessel rise in the company's average fleet size was the primary growth enabler. Other factors include encouraging dynamics across the drybulk segment, and higher rates for both drybulk and tankers amid the geopolitical uncertainties. Operating income for the quarter jumped to a near-record level of $33.4 million, which translates into a 307.3% growth relative to Q2 FY25. Imperial posted an adjusted EPS of $0.76 for the reported quarter, which almost doubled compared to the same quarter a year prior.
At the back of efficient fleet management, management remained focus on strengthening its financial position. The company ended the quarter with no debt, and its liquidity position also remained resilient. Cash and cash equivalents, including time deposits, increased from $179.1 million at the end of 2025 to $245.2 million as of June 30, 2026. The company added that its cash base had increased further to approximately $260 million as of the September 10 results release.
Certain areas of weakness warrant a closer examination. During the reported quarter, fleet operational utilization went down from 83.1% in prior year's second quarter to 73.5%. There was a substantial increase in some of the underlying operating expenses. For instance, the vessel operating expense stood at $14.4 million compared to $8.4 million during Q2 FY25. This $6 million rise can be attributed to Imperial's larger fleet size. Similarly, the voyage expenses also jumped from $10.7 million in last year's Q2 to $22.1 million for Q2 FY26. The incremental voyage expenses stemmed from higher bunkers' rates, as well as a 58.4% jump in spot days.
#fleet
1 day ago
On September 10, Canaccord cut its price target for The Lovesac Company (NASDAQ:LOVE) from $22 to $20 but maintained its Buy rating on the stock. This update came after the company reported its financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2027, which ended August 2, 2026.
Canaccord noted that the company's fiscal Q2 results were in line with expectations. Revenue and adjusted EBITDA were both within the company's guidance and close to consensus estimates. The company received $21 million in IEEPA tariff refunds, which helped lift gross margins and earnings above consensus.
The Lovesac Company (NASDAQ:LOVE) reported net sales 0.4% higher than the prior-year period. This slight increase was mainly driven by 14 net new showrooms, although this was partly offset by a 1.9% decline in omni-channel comparable net sales and the closure of the company's Best Buy shop-in-shop locations. During the quarter, the company opened five additional showrooms and closed two.
The company reported net income of $7.4 million in the second quarter, compared with a net loss of $6.7 million in the same period last year. Operating income also improved to $10.9 million from an operating loss of $8.8 million a year earlier.
Gross profit rose 21.7% year-over-year while gross margin expanded to 68.4% of net sales from 56.4%, an increase of 1,200 basis points. The improvement was largely driven by IEEPA tariff recoveries, which contributed 1,240 basis points to gross margin. Excluding those recoveries, gross margin was 56.0%, down 40 basis points from the prior-year period.
#year #sales #period
Canaccord noted that the company's fiscal Q2 results were in line with expectations. Revenue and adjusted EBITDA were both within the company's guidance and close to consensus estimates. The company received $21 million in IEEPA tariff refunds, which helped lift gross margins and earnings above consensus.
The Lovesac Company (NASDAQ:LOVE) reported net sales 0.4% higher than the prior-year period. This slight increase was mainly driven by 14 net new showrooms, although this was partly offset by a 1.9% decline in omni-channel comparable net sales and the closure of the company's Best Buy shop-in-shop locations. During the quarter, the company opened five additional showrooms and closed two.
The company reported net income of $7.4 million in the second quarter, compared with a net loss of $6.7 million in the same period last year. Operating income also improved to $10.9 million from an operating loss of $8.8 million a year earlier.
Gross profit rose 21.7% year-over-year while gross margin expanded to 68.4% of net sales from 56.4%, an increase of 1,200 basis points. The improvement was largely driven by IEEPA tariff recoveries, which contributed 1,240 basis points to gross margin. Excluding those recoveries, gross margin was 56.0%, down 40 basis points from the prior-year period.
#year #sales #period
1 day ago
Auxier ******* et Management, an investment advisory firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Following a strong rebound from the first-quarter decline, the S&P 500 gained 15.2% as accelerating capital spending toward artificial intelligence infrastructure drove significant gains across technology hardware companies. Semiconductor and data-center-related businesses benefited from supply constraints and strong demand, while enterprise software remained under pressure as investors reassessed AI disruption risks and compressed valuations. In the quarter, Auxier Focus Fund's Investor Class gained 8.82% and 10.70% for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Despite strong earnings growth across the broader market, Auxier highlighted concerns around rising margin debt, increased leverage, and elevated capital flows into high-growth technology areas that could amplify future volatility. The firm continues to focus on identifying enduring businesses with strong competitive advantages, resilient cash flows, and sustainable long-term growth potential. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ******* et Management highlighted UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) as a material contributor. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) is a multinational health benefits company based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. On September 14, 2026, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) closed at $383.55 per share. Over the past month, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) declined 4.38%, while its shares gained 10.86% over the past 52 weeks. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) has a market capitalization of $344.27 billion with a 52-week trading range between $255.97 and $461.62.
Auxier ******* et Management stated the following regarding UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) Leads the Way in Reshaping the Insurance Industry with AI UnitedHealth Group is among the companies that have successfully integrated AI into various parts of their operations. One of the most significant benefits has been in administrative functions, where AI has helped save tens of thousands of hours through increased automation and efficiency. As an example, automated transcription of patient encounters has contributed to lower levels of clinician burnout. Management reports that they are generating about $2 of value for every $1 spent on AI due to reductions in manual labor. We like this measured approach to implementing AI where it can provide clear operational benefits and attractive returns, which has been a key strategy of current CEO Stephen Hemsley. UnitedHealth's success in AI use highlights the technology's potential on the user side where companies can benefit without the high upfront cost of building the infrastructure. Cigna Group is projecting $200 million in
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ******* et Management highlighted UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) as a material contributor. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) is a multinational health benefits company based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. On September 14, 2026, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) closed at $383.55 per share. Over the past month, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) declined 4.38%, while its shares gained 10.86% over the past 52 weeks. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) has a market capitalization of $344.27 billion with a 52-week trading range between $255.97 and $461.62.
Auxier ******* et Management stated the following regarding UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) Leads the Way in Reshaping the Insurance Industry with AI UnitedHealth Group is among the companies that have successfully integrated AI into various parts of their operations. One of the most significant benefits has been in administrative functions, where AI has helped save tens of thousands of hours through increased automation and efficiency. As an example, automated transcription of patient encounters has contributed to lower levels of clinician burnout. Management reports that they are generating about $2 of value for every $1 spent on AI due to reductions in manual labor. We like this measured approach to implementing AI where it can provide clear operational benefits and attractive returns, which has been a key strategy of current CEO Stephen Hemsley. UnitedHealth's success in AI use highlights the technology's potential on the user side where companies can benefit without the high upfront cost of building the infrastructure. Cigna Group is projecting $200 million in
1 day ago
Auxier ******* et Management, an investment advisory firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Following a strong rebound from the first-quarter decline, the S&P 500 gained 15.2% as accelerating capital spending toward artificial intelligence infrastructure drove significant gains across technology hardware companies. Semiconductor and data-center-related businesses benefited from supply constraints and strong demand, while enterprise software remained under pressure as investors reassessed AI disruption risks and compressed valuations. In the quarter, Auxier Focus Fund's Investor Class gained 8.82% and 10.70% for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Despite strong earnings growth across the broader market, Auxier highlighted concerns around rising margin debt, increased leverage, and elevated capital flows into high-growth technology areas that could amplify future volatility. The firm continues to focus on identifying enduring businesses with strong competitive advantages, resilient cash flows, and sustainable long-term growth potential. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ******* et Management highlighted The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR). The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is a leading supermarket chain that operates combination food and drug stores, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price impact warehouses. On September 14, 2026, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) closed at $60.91 per share. Over the past month, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) returned 10.12%, but its shares are down 7.06% over the past year. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has a market capitalization of $37.32 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.15 to $76.58.
Auxier ******* et Management stated the following regarding The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Consumer staples underperformed during the quarter. Elevated inflation, high interest rates and rising gas prices contributed to lower consumer spending, impacting companies like The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) and PepsiCo. Although Kroger's stock has been weak, its new CEO Greg Foran brings exceptional leadership that promises positive change. While he was President of Walmart US from 2014-2019, the company achieved 20 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth and scaled its online grocery pickup. Since joining Kroger he has aggressively reduced prices and boosted the growth in private label and organic offerings. The stock trades at a mere 12 times earnings which is a significant discount to both Costco and Walmart."
#Growth #asset
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ******* et Management highlighted The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR). The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is a leading supermarket chain that operates combination food and drug stores, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price impact warehouses. On September 14, 2026, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) closed at $60.91 per share. Over the past month, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) returned 10.12%, but its shares are down 7.06% over the past year. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has a market capitalization of $37.32 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.15 to $76.58.
Auxier ******* et Management stated the following regarding The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Consumer staples underperformed during the quarter. Elevated inflation, high interest rates and rising gas prices contributed to lower consumer spending, impacting companies like The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) and PepsiCo. Although Kroger's stock has been weak, its new CEO Greg Foran brings exceptional leadership that promises positive change. While he was President of Walmart US from 2014-2019, the company achieved 20 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth and scaled its online grocery pickup. Since joining Kroger he has aggressively reduced prices and boosted the growth in private label and organic offerings. The stock trades at a mere 12 times earnings which is a significant discount to both Costco and Walmart."
#Growth #asset
1 day ago
Fidelity Investments, an investment management company, recently released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter for the "Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund". The letter can be downloaded here. The Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund is a diversified large-cap equity strategy focused on capital appreciation through investments in large- and mid-cap stocks with strong dividend growth prospects. The fund returned 17.05% in the quarter, outperforming the S&P 500 Index, which gained 15.20%. U.S. stocks experienced significant gains in Q2, driven by increased spending on artificial intelligence. Technology stocks gained 31.79%, mainly driven by semiconductor companies, while the index faced a slight decline in June as investors considered the sustainability of AI-related profits amidst rising interest rates. Despite recent turbulence from the Middle East conflict, the fund remains optimistic about key investment themes, particularly in artificial intelligence. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund highlighted Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC). Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is a data storage company that engages in the manufacturing and distribution of data storage devices and solutions based on hard disk drive (HDD) technology. On September 14, 2026, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) closed at $426.94 per share. Over the past month, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) declined 13.95%, and its shares are up 314.14% over the past year. Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) has a market capitalization of $153.93 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $93.92 to $799.87.
Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund stated the following regarding Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Among individual holdings, a sizable overweight in Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) (+140%) topped the list of relative contributors. In late April, the data-storage maker reported better-than-expected quarterly financial results, including higher earnings and gross profit margin. In its report, management said brisk demand for the firm's storage solutions for AI capabilities contributed to the solid quarter. Also, the company raised its financial guidance."
Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 98 hedge fund portfolios held Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) at the end of the second quarter, up from 83 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-te
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund highlighted Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC). Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is a data storage company that engages in the manufacturing and distribution of data storage devices and solutions based on hard disk drive (HDD) technology. On September 14, 2026, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) closed at $426.94 per share. Over the past month, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) declined 13.95%, and its shares are up 314.14% over the past year. Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) has a market capitalization of $153.93 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $93.92 to $799.87.
Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund stated the following regarding Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Among individual holdings, a sizable overweight in Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) (+140%) topped the list of relative contributors. In late April, the data-storage maker reported better-than-expected quarterly financial results, including higher earnings and gross profit margin. In its report, management said brisk demand for the firm's storage solutions for AI capabilities contributed to the solid quarter. Also, the company raised its financial guidance."
Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 98 hedge fund portfolios held Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) at the end of the second quarter, up from 83 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-te
1 day ago
Broyhill ***** et Management, a Charlotte-based firm, issued its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, which is available for download here. The Broyhill Equity Composite gained 8.8% in Q2, trailing the MSCI All Country World Index's 15.1% and the MSCI ACWI Value Index's 10.8%. For the first half, the Composite returned 2.3%, versus 11.5% for the Index. The letter highlights that a significant portion of the shortfall occurred in April due to market dynamics and geopolitical events, with tech, particularly semiconductors, driving recent gains. Broyhill notes its lack of direct semiconductor exposure but acknowledges potential interest in the sector if opportunities arise, maintaining its investment philosophy focused on capital protection in fragile market conditions. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ***** et Management highlighted Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS). Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS), a US-based home improvement and building products manufacturer, contributed positively to performance this quarter. On September 14, 2026, Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) closed at $69.41 per share. Over the past month, Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) declined 5.41%, but its shares are down 5.31% over the past year. Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) has a market capitalization of $13.69 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $58.16 to $83.64.
Broyhill ***** et Management stated the following regarding Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) gained 37%, the best result in the portfolio, and was initiated in the first quarter as one of two investments in the depressed housing sector. The quarter was plumbing-led and, more to the point, volume-led, with the strongest volume growth since the end of the pandemic and pricing intact. Management raised the topline outlook, took out delayed-draw leverage to repurchase stock, and increased the buyback guide by $200 million, to more than $800 million against a $2 billion authorization. Earlier in the quarter, our investment team also attended Masco's investor day and was able to interact with management at the event."
Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 46 hedge fund portfolios held Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 42 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#corporation #letter
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ***** et Management highlighted Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS). Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS), a US-based home improvement and building products manufacturer, contributed positively to performance this quarter. On September 14, 2026, Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) closed at $69.41 per share. Over the past month, Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) declined 5.41%, but its shares are down 5.31% over the past year. Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) has a market capitalization of $13.69 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $58.16 to $83.64.
Broyhill ***** et Management stated the following regarding Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) gained 37%, the best result in the portfolio, and was initiated in the first quarter as one of two investments in the depressed housing sector. The quarter was plumbing-led and, more to the point, volume-led, with the strongest volume growth since the end of the pandemic and pricing intact. Management raised the topline outlook, took out delayed-draw leverage to repurchase stock, and increased the buyback guide by $200 million, to more than $800 million against a $2 billion authorization. Earlier in the quarter, our investment team also attended Masco's investor day and was able to interact with management at the event."
Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 46 hedge fund portfolios held Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 42 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#corporation #letter
1 day ago
Broyhill ***** et Management, a Charlotte-based firm, issued its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, which is available for download here. The Broyhill Equity Composite gained 8.8% in Q2, trailing the MSCI All Country World Index's 15.1% and the MSCI ACWI Value Index's 10.8%. For the first half, the Composite returned 2.3%, versus 11.5% for the Index. The letter highlights that a significant portion of the shortfall occurred in April due to market dynamics and geopolitical events, with tech, particularly semiconductors, driving recent gains. Broyhill notes its lack of direct semiconductor exposure but acknowledges potential interest in the sector if opportunities arise, maintaining its investment philosophy focused on capital protection in fragile market conditions. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ***** et Management highlighted The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD). The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD), a leading player in the foodservice industry, contributed positively to performance during the quarter. On September 14, 2026, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) closed at $109.72 per share. Over the past month, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) declined 3.75%, but its shares are up 1.27% over the past year. The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) has a market capitalization of $78.51 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $89.14 to $148.55.
Broyhill ***** et Management stated the following regarding The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) gained 31%. Commercial Foodservice grew organic revenue 8% as chains returned to growth and management raised full-year guidance by roughly 4%. More important was the structural progress: the Food Processing separation was confirmed at the May investor day (which our investment team attended) and completed on July 6th, creating Midera. Following the majority sale of the residential business earlier this year, what remains is a cleaner business with leverage approaching 2.5x."
The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 42 hedge fund portfolios held The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) at the end of the second quarter which was 35 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#middleby #corporation #broyhill #quarter
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ***** et Management highlighted The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD). The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD), a leading player in the foodservice industry, contributed positively to performance during the quarter. On September 14, 2026, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) closed at $109.72 per share. Over the past month, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) declined 3.75%, but its shares are up 1.27% over the past year. The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) has a market capitalization of $78.51 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $89.14 to $148.55.
Broyhill ***** et Management stated the following regarding The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) gained 31%. Commercial Foodservice grew organic revenue 8% as chains returned to growth and management raised full-year guidance by roughly 4%. More important was the structural progress: the Food Processing separation was confirmed at the May investor day (which our investment team attended) and completed on July 6th, creating Midera. Following the majority sale of the residential business earlier this year, what remains is a cleaner business with leverage approaching 2.5x."
The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 42 hedge fund portfolios held The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) at the end of the second quarter which was 35 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#middleby #corporation #broyhill #quarter
1 day ago
Broyhill ******* et Management, a Charlotte-based firm, issued its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, which is available for download here. The Broyhill Equity Composite gained 8.8% in Q2, trailing the MSCI All Country World Index's 15.1% and the MSCI ACWI Value Index's 10.8%. For the first half, the Composite returned 2.3%, versus 11.5% for the Index. The letter highlights that a significant portion of the shortfall occurred in April due to market dynamics and geopolitical events, with tech, particularly semiconductors, driving recent gains. Broyhill notes its lack of direct semiconductor exposure but acknowledges potential interest in the sector if opportunities arise, maintaining its investment philosophy focused on capital protection in fragile market conditions. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ******* et Management highlighted Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC). Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC), a US-based company that provides sterilization solutions, lab testing, and advisory services for the healthcare industry, contributed positively to the portfolio's performance this quarter. On September 14, 2026, Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) closed at $18.52 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $5.29 billion. Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) posted a one-month return of 0.05%, while its shares gained 13.62% over the past 52 weeks.
Broyhill ******* et Management stated the following regarding Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) was our largest contributor, with shares gaining 25%. We bought it in the first quarter, when the litigation docket was the only thing anyone wanted to discuss, and the price gave no weight to the fact that there are only two companies of scale doing this work. Results beat on revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and earnings per share; guidance was reaffirmed across every line, and management described March as its best volume month in three to four years. The EPA has proposed a full repeal of the 2024 ethylene oxide standard. At the time, the shares traded at roughly 14x forward earnings against 20x for the closest comparable."
Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 43 hedge fund portfolios held Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 42 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#sotera #broyhill #second
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ******* et Management highlighted Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC). Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC), a US-based company that provides sterilization solutions, lab testing, and advisory services for the healthcare industry, contributed positively to the portfolio's performance this quarter. On September 14, 2026, Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) closed at $18.52 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $5.29 billion. Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) posted a one-month return of 0.05%, while its shares gained 13.62% over the past 52 weeks.
Broyhill ******* et Management stated the following regarding Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) was our largest contributor, with shares gaining 25%. We bought it in the first quarter, when the litigation docket was the only thing anyone wanted to discuss, and the price gave no weight to the fact that there are only two companies of scale doing this work. Results beat on revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and earnings per share; guidance was reaffirmed across every line, and management described March as its best volume month in three to four years. The EPA has proposed a full repeal of the 2024 ethylene oxide standard. At the time, the shares traded at roughly 14x forward earnings against 20x for the closest comparable."
Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 43 hedge fund portfolios held Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 42 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#sotera #broyhill #second
1 day ago
Auxier ****** et Management, an investment advisory firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Following a strong rebound from the first-quarter decline, the S&P 500 gained 15.2% as accelerating capital spending toward artificial intelligence infrastructure drove significant gains across technology hardware companies. Semiconductor and data-center-related businesses benefited from supply constraints and strong demand, while enterprise software remained under pressure as investors reassessed AI disruption risks and compressed valuations. In the quarter, Auxier Focus Fund's Investor Class gained 8.82% and 10.70% for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Despite strong earnings growth across the broader market, Auxier highlighted concerns around rising margin debt, increased leverage, and elevated capital flows into high-growth technology areas that could amplify future volatility. The firm continues to focus on identifying enduring businesses with strong competitive advantages, resilient cash flows, and sustainable long-term growth potential. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ****** et Management highlighted UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) as a material contributor. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) is a multinational health benefits company based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. On September 14, 2026, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) closed at $383.55 per share. Over the past month, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) declined 4.38%, while its shares gained 10.86% over the past 52 weeks. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) has a market capitalization of $344.27 billion with a 52-week trading range between $255.97 and $461.62.
Auxier ****** et Management stated the following regarding UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) Leads the Way in Reshaping the Insurance Industry with AI UnitedHealth Group is among the companies that have successfully integrated AI into various parts of their operations. One of the most significant benefits has been in administrative functions, where AI has helped save tens of thousands of hours through increased automation and efficiency. As an example, automated transcription of patient encounters has contributed to lower levels of clinician burnout. Management reports that they are generating about $2 of value for every $1 spent on AI due to reductions in manual labor. We like this measured approach to implementing AI where it can provide clear operational benefits and attractive returns, which has been a key strategy of current CEO Stephen Hemsley. UnitedHealth's success in AI use highlights the technology's potential on the user side where companies can benefit without the high upfront cost of building the infrastructure. Cigna Group is projecting $200 million in me
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ****** et Management highlighted UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) as a material contributor. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) is a multinational health benefits company based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. On September 14, 2026, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) closed at $383.55 per share. Over the past month, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) declined 4.38%, while its shares gained 10.86% over the past 52 weeks. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) has a market capitalization of $344.27 billion with a 52-week trading range between $255.97 and $461.62.
Auxier ****** et Management stated the following regarding UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) Leads the Way in Reshaping the Insurance Industry with AI UnitedHealth Group is among the companies that have successfully integrated AI into various parts of their operations. One of the most significant benefits has been in administrative functions, where AI has helped save tens of thousands of hours through increased automation and efficiency. As an example, automated transcription of patient encounters has contributed to lower levels of clinician burnout. Management reports that they are generating about $2 of value for every $1 spent on AI due to reductions in manual labor. We like this measured approach to implementing AI where it can provide clear operational benefits and attractive returns, which has been a key strategy of current CEO Stephen Hemsley. UnitedHealth's success in AI use highlights the technology's potential on the user side where companies can benefit without the high upfront cost of building the infrastructure. Cigna Group is projecting $200 million in me
1 day ago
Auxier ***** et Management, an investment advisory firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Following a strong rebound from the first-quarter decline, the S&P 500 gained 15.2% as accelerating capital spending toward artificial intelligence infrastructure drove significant gains across technology hardware companies. Semiconductor and data-center-related businesses benefited from supply constraints and strong demand, while enterprise software remained under pressure as investors reassessed AI disruption risks and compressed valuations. In the quarter, Auxier Focus Fund's Investor Class gained 8.82% and 10.70% for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Despite strong earnings growth across the broader market, Auxier highlighted concerns around rising margin debt, increased leverage, and elevated capital flows into high-growth technology areas that could amplify future volatility. The firm continues to focus on identifying enduring businesses with strong competitive advantages, resilient cash flows, and sustainable long-term growth potential. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ***** et Management highlighted The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR). The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is a leading supermarket chain that operates combination food and drug stores, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price impact warehouses. On September 14, 2026, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) closed at $60.91 per share. Over the past month, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) returned 10.12%, but its shares are down 7.06% over the past year. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has a market capitalization of $37.32 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.15 to $76.58.
Auxier ***** et Management stated the following regarding The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Consumer staples underperformed during the quarter. Elevated inflation, high interest rates and rising gas prices contributed to lower consumer spending, impacting companies like The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) and PepsiCo. Although Kroger's stock has been weak, its new CEO Greg Foran brings exceptional leadership that promises positive change. While he was President of Walmart US from 2014-2019, the company achieved 20 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth and scaled its online grocery pickup. Since joining Kroger he has aggressively reduced prices and boosted the growth in private label and organic offerings. The stock trades at a mere 12 times earnings which is a significant discount to both Costco and Walmart."
#NYSE #quarter #Growth #strong
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ***** et Management highlighted The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR). The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is a leading supermarket chain that operates combination food and drug stores, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price impact warehouses. On September 14, 2026, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) closed at $60.91 per share. Over the past month, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) returned 10.12%, but its shares are down 7.06% over the past year. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has a market capitalization of $37.32 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.15 to $76.58.
Auxier ***** et Management stated the following regarding The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Consumer staples underperformed during the quarter. Elevated inflation, high interest rates and rising gas prices contributed to lower consumer spending, impacting companies like The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) and PepsiCo. Although Kroger's stock has been weak, its new CEO Greg Foran brings exceptional leadership that promises positive change. While he was President of Walmart US from 2014-2019, the company achieved 20 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth and scaled its online grocery pickup. Since joining Kroger he has aggressively reduced prices and boosted the growth in private label and organic offerings. The stock trades at a mere 12 times earnings which is a significant discount to both Costco and Walmart."
#NYSE #quarter #Growth #strong
1 day ago
Fidelity Investments, an investment management company, recently released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter for the "Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund". The letter can be downloaded here. The Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund is a diversified large-cap equity strategy focused on capital appreciation through investments in large- and mid-cap stocks with strong dividend growth prospects. The fund returned 17.05% in the quarter, outperforming the S&P 500 Index, which gained 15.20%. U.S. stocks experienced significant gains in Q2, driven by increased spending on artificial intelligence. Technology stocks gained 31.79%, mainly driven by semiconductor companies, while the index faced a slight decline in June as investors considered the sustainability of AI-related profits amidst rising interest rates. Despite recent turbulence from the Middle East conflict, the fund remains optimistic about key investment themes, particularly in artificial intelligence. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund highlighted Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC). Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is a data storage company that engages in the manufacturing and distribution of data storage devices and solutions based on hard disk drive (HDD) technology. On September 14, 2026, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) closed at $426.94 per share. Over the past month, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) declined 13.95%, and its shares are up 314.14% over the past year. Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) has a market capitalization of $153.93 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $93.92 to $799.87.
Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund stated the following regarding Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Among individual holdings, a sizable overweight in Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) (+140%) topped the list of relative contributors. In late April, the data-storage maker reported better-than-expected quarterly financial results, including higher earnings and gross profit margin. In its report, management said brisk demand for the firm's storage solutions for AI capabilities contributed to the solid quarter. Also, the company raised its financial guidance."
Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 98 hedge fund portfolios held Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) at the end of the second quarter, up from 83 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-te
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund highlighted Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC). Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is a data storage company that engages in the manufacturing and distribution of data storage devices and solutions based on hard disk drive (HDD) technology. On September 14, 2026, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) closed at $426.94 per share. Over the past month, Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) declined 13.95%, and its shares are up 314.14% over the past year. Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) has a market capitalization of $153.93 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $93.92 to $799.87.
Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund stated the following regarding Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Among individual holdings, a sizable overweight in Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) (+140%) topped the list of relative contributors. In late April, the data-storage maker reported better-than-expected quarterly financial results, including higher earnings and gross profit margin. In its report, management said brisk demand for the firm's storage solutions for AI capabilities contributed to the solid quarter. Also, the company raised its financial guidance."
Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 98 hedge fund portfolios held Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) at the end of the second quarter, up from 83 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:WDC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-te
2 days ago
Broyhill ***** et Management, a Charlotte-based firm, issued its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, which is available for download here. The Broyhill Equity Composite gained 8.8% in Q2, trailing the MSCI All Country World Index's 15.1% and the MSCI ACWI Value Index's 10.8%. For the first half, the Composite returned 2.3%, versus 11.5% for the Index. The letter highlights that a significant portion of the shortfall occurred in April due to market dynamics and geopolitical events, with tech, particularly semiconductors, driving recent gains. Broyhill notes its lack of direct semiconductor exposure but acknowledges potential interest in the sector if opportunities arise, maintaining its investment philosophy focused on capital protection in fragile market conditions. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ***** et Management highlighted The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD). The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD), a leading player in the foodservice industry, contributed positively to performance during the quarter. On September 14, 2026, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) closed at $109.72 per share. Over the past month, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) declined 3.75%, but its shares are up 1.27% over the past year. The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) has a market capitalization of $78.51 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $89.14 to $148.55.
Broyhill ***** et Management stated the following regarding The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) gained 31%. Commercial Foodservice grew organic revenue 8% as chains returned to growth and management raised full-year guidance by roughly 4%. More important was the structural progress: the Food Processing separation was confirmed at the May investor day (which our investment team attended) and completed on July 6th, creating Midera. Following the majority sale of the residential business earlier this year, what remains is a cleaner business with leverage approaching 2.5x."
The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 42 hedge fund portfolios held The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) at the end of the second quarter which was 35 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#NASDAQ #midd #asset
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ***** et Management highlighted The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD). The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD), a leading player in the foodservice industry, contributed positively to performance during the quarter. On September 14, 2026, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) closed at $109.72 per share. Over the past month, The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) declined 3.75%, but its shares are up 1.27% over the past year. The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) has a market capitalization of $78.51 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $89.14 to $148.55.
Broyhill ***** et Management stated the following regarding The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) gained 31%. Commercial Foodservice grew organic revenue 8% as chains returned to growth and management raised full-year guidance by roughly 4%. More important was the structural progress: the Food Processing separation was confirmed at the May investor day (which our investment team attended) and completed on July 6th, creating Midera. Following the majority sale of the residential business earlier this year, what remains is a cleaner business with leverage approaching 2.5x."
The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 42 hedge fund portfolios held The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) at the end of the second quarter which was 35 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#NASDAQ #midd #asset
2 days ago
Broyhill ****** et Management, a Charlotte-based firm, issued its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, which is available for download here. The Broyhill Equity Composite gained 8.8% in Q2, trailing the MSCI All Country World Index's 15.1% and the MSCI ACWI Value Index's 10.8%. For the first half, the Composite returned 2.3%, versus 11.5% for the Index. The letter highlights that a significant portion of the shortfall occurred in April due to market dynamics and geopolitical events, with tech, particularly semiconductors, driving recent gains. Broyhill notes its lack of direct semiconductor exposure but acknowledges potential interest in the sector if opportunities arise, maintaining its investment philosophy focused on capital protection in fragile market conditions. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ****** et Management highlighted Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC). Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC), a US-based company that provides sterilization solutions, lab testing, and advisory services for the healthcare industry, contributed positively to the portfolio's performance this quarter. On September 14, 2026, Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) closed at $18.52 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $5.29 billion. Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) posted a one-month return of 0.05%, while its shares gained 13.62% over the past 52 weeks.
Broyhill ****** et Management stated the following regarding Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) was our largest contributor, with shares gaining 25%. We bought it in the first quarter, when the litigation docket was the only thing anyone wanted to discuss, and the price gave no weight to the fact that there are only two companies of scale doing this work. Results beat on revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and earnings per share; guidance was reaffirmed across every line, and management described March as its best volume month in three to four years. The EPA has proposed a full repeal of the 2024 ethylene oxide standard. At the time, the shares traded at roughly 14x forward earnings against 20x for the closest comparable."
Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 43 hedge fund portfolios held Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 42 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#letter
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Broyhill ****** et Management highlighted Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC). Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC), a US-based company that provides sterilization solutions, lab testing, and advisory services for the healthcare industry, contributed positively to the portfolio's performance this quarter. On September 14, 2026, Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) closed at $18.52 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $5.29 billion. Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) posted a one-month return of 0.05%, while its shares gained 13.62% over the past 52 weeks.
Broyhill ****** et Management stated the following regarding Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) was our largest contributor, with shares gaining 25%. We bought it in the first quarter, when the litigation docket was the only thing anyone wanted to discuss, and the price gave no weight to the fact that there are only two companies of scale doing this work. Results beat on revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and earnings per share; guidance was reaffirmed across every line, and management described March as its best volume month in three to four years. The EPA has proposed a full repeal of the 2024 ethylene oxide standard. At the time, the shares traded at roughly 14x forward earnings against 20x for the closest comparable."
Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 43 hedge fund portfolios held Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 42 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Sotera Health Company (NASDAQ:SHC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#letter
2 days ago
US stocks mostly rose on Wednesday morning ahead of the Federal Reserve's decision on whether to hike interest rates for the first time in three years.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) dipped below the flat line, while the S&P 500 (^GSPC) rose 0.2%. The Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) gained 0.4%
Stocks searched for gains after ending Tuesday's session lower. A bond sell-off that has pushed the 10-year yield (^TNX) to its highest level since the financial crisis weighed on stock sentiment.
Crypto prices tumbled, meanwhile, after the Senate failed to pass a key procedural vote for a regulatory framework for digital ****** ets, known as the Clarity Act. Bitcoin's price (BTC-USD) dropped below $76,000.
At the same time, rising oil prices have contributed to worries that inflation will remain stubbornly high. Despite a pause in crude oil's rally, benchmark Brent (BZ=F) and WTI (CL=F) futures remain above $100 per barrel.
#stocks #time #below #federal
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) dipped below the flat line, while the S&P 500 (^GSPC) rose 0.2%. The Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) gained 0.4%
Stocks searched for gains after ending Tuesday's session lower. A bond sell-off that has pushed the 10-year yield (^TNX) to its highest level since the financial crisis weighed on stock sentiment.
Crypto prices tumbled, meanwhile, after the Senate failed to pass a key procedural vote for a regulatory framework for digital ****** ets, known as the Clarity Act. Bitcoin's price (BTC-USD) dropped below $76,000.
At the same time, rising oil prices have contributed to worries that inflation will remain stubbornly high. Despite a pause in crude oil's rally, benchmark Brent (BZ=F) and WTI (CL=F) futures remain above $100 per barrel.
#stocks #time #below #federal
2 days ago
US stocks rose modestly on Wednesday morning ahead of the Federal Reserve's decision on whether to hike interest rates for the first time in three years.
Futures on the Dow Jones Industrial Average (YM=F) edged up 0.1%; the S&P 500 (ES=F) rose 0.2%, and the Nasdaq-100 (NQ=F) gained 0.4% in premarket trading.
Stocks searched for gains after ending Tuesday's session lower. A bond sell-off that has pushed the 10-year yield (^TNX) to its highest level since the financial crisis weighed on stock sentiment.
Crypto prices tumbled, meanwhile, after the Senate failed to pass a key procedural vote for a regulatory framework for digital ***** ets, known as the Clarity Act. Bitcoin's price (BTC-USD) dropped 2% to the $75,000 level.
At the same time, rising oil prices have contributed to worries that inflation will remain stubbornly high. Despite a pause in crude oil's rally, benchmark Brent (BZ=F) and WTI (CL=F) futures remain above $100 per barrel.
#prices #wednesday #jones
Futures on the Dow Jones Industrial Average (YM=F) edged up 0.1%; the S&P 500 (ES=F) rose 0.2%, and the Nasdaq-100 (NQ=F) gained 0.4% in premarket trading.
Stocks searched for gains after ending Tuesday's session lower. A bond sell-off that has pushed the 10-year yield (^TNX) to its highest level since the financial crisis weighed on stock sentiment.
Crypto prices tumbled, meanwhile, after the Senate failed to pass a key procedural vote for a regulatory framework for digital ***** ets, known as the Clarity Act. Bitcoin's price (BTC-USD) dropped 2% to the $75,000 level.
At the same time, rising oil prices have contributed to worries that inflation will remain stubbornly high. Despite a pause in crude oil's rally, benchmark Brent (BZ=F) and WTI (CL=F) futures remain above $100 per barrel.
#prices #wednesday #jones
3 days ago
ESPN's decision to air an interview with U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz on College GameDay this week was bound to get attention.
That's why they did it.
The backlash the network is facing has a lot more to do with its refusal to balance Cruz's perspective with anyone on the GameDay panel or from another guest — and what Bomani Jones, in an episode of his podcast The Right Time on Sunday, called "pretty dire consequences" that could come from "shilling" for the Senate's Protect College Sports Act.
Jones called out ESPN for not bringing on an opponent of the PCSA on the show, and for compounding its partnership with the powers that be with another unusual decision during its broadcast from the University of Texas on Saturday.
"There are serious consequences to what ESPN chose to do," he said. "What they did was flatly wrong, and it is possible that it will contribute to limiting the ability of players to cash in, their chance to cash in in this life. I think those are pretty dire consequences, and I think that there should be a pretty loud uproar about that."
#jones #decision
That's why they did it.
The backlash the network is facing has a lot more to do with its refusal to balance Cruz's perspective with anyone on the GameDay panel or from another guest — and what Bomani Jones, in an episode of his podcast The Right Time on Sunday, called "pretty dire consequences" that could come from "shilling" for the Senate's Protect College Sports Act.
Jones called out ESPN for not bringing on an opponent of the PCSA on the show, and for compounding its partnership with the powers that be with another unusual decision during its broadcast from the University of Texas on Saturday.
"There are serious consequences to what ESPN chose to do," he said. "What they did was flatly wrong, and it is possible that it will contribute to limiting the ability of players to cash in, their chance to cash in in this life. I think those are pretty dire consequences, and I think that there should be a pretty loud uproar about that."
#jones #decision
4 days ago
On September 10, Copart (NASDAQ:CPRT) held its fourth-quarter earnings call and used it to unveil a deal that could reshape its business: an all-cash agreement to acquire ACV, a digital auto marketplace that moved roughly $10 billion of vehicles last year without owning a single lot. The announcement landed alongside a quarter that captured the company's central tension. Revenue rose, but net income fell, and management is now betting that pairing its junkyards with someone else's software can fix that.
The ACV deal is the headline, and for good reason. ACV brings more than 22,000 active buyers and inspection and valuation technology, while Copart contributes over 275 locations, roughly 4 million vehicles sold annually, and about 1 million members across more than 185 countries. Management structured it as an all-cash tender offer funded from cash on hand, with a close targeted by the end of the calendar year and earnings accretion expected in fiscal 2028. Executives framed the fit as physical scale meeting digital liquidity, giving dealers, banks, and fleet sellers a single partner for disposing of vehicles.
That diversification push is already showing up in the numbers. International revenue grew 11.7% to $222.1 million on 15% service revenue growth, and international buyers accounted for 45.7% of total US sales dollars despite making up only 38.2% of units, a sign they are chasing pricier vehicles. Domestically, non-insurance units returned to growth of 0.2% in the quarter after a full-year decline, dealer units rose 5.8%, and BluCar, which serves banks and fleets, expanded nearly 20%. Global average selling prices climbed 3.5%, evidence that Copart's auctions still command pricing power even as volumes soften.
The quarter's numbers show where the strain is. Consolidated revenue grew 2.4% to $1.2 billion, yet net income dropped 17.4% to $327.4 million and diluted earnings per share fell 14.6% to $0.35. Operating expense per car jumped 12.7% year over year as the company poured money into long-haul delivery, **** leExpress, and dedicated wholesale facilities, and US facility costs alone rose 7.7% in the quarter. Lower interest income, a byproduct of the $1.63 billion spent on buybacks earlier in the fiscal year, added to the squeeze.
The core insurance business is also cooling. Global insurance units fell 4.2%, with domestic insurance **** ignments down 7.5%, though management noted that figure would have been up 2.3% excluding the loss of a single customer. Collision claim frequency declined 3.4% even as total loss frequency hit a record 23.3% for a second quarter and severity topped $6,300 per claim, up 8.8%. And the ACV deal itself carries integration risk, since management expects only breakeven results before accretion arrives in fiscal 2028.
#quarter #vehicles #insurance
The ACV deal is the headline, and for good reason. ACV brings more than 22,000 active buyers and inspection and valuation technology, while Copart contributes over 275 locations, roughly 4 million vehicles sold annually, and about 1 million members across more than 185 countries. Management structured it as an all-cash tender offer funded from cash on hand, with a close targeted by the end of the calendar year and earnings accretion expected in fiscal 2028. Executives framed the fit as physical scale meeting digital liquidity, giving dealers, banks, and fleet sellers a single partner for disposing of vehicles.
That diversification push is already showing up in the numbers. International revenue grew 11.7% to $222.1 million on 15% service revenue growth, and international buyers accounted for 45.7% of total US sales dollars despite making up only 38.2% of units, a sign they are chasing pricier vehicles. Domestically, non-insurance units returned to growth of 0.2% in the quarter after a full-year decline, dealer units rose 5.8%, and BluCar, which serves banks and fleets, expanded nearly 20%. Global average selling prices climbed 3.5%, evidence that Copart's auctions still command pricing power even as volumes soften.
The quarter's numbers show where the strain is. Consolidated revenue grew 2.4% to $1.2 billion, yet net income dropped 17.4% to $327.4 million and diluted earnings per share fell 14.6% to $0.35. Operating expense per car jumped 12.7% year over year as the company poured money into long-haul delivery, **** leExpress, and dedicated wholesale facilities, and US facility costs alone rose 7.7% in the quarter. Lower interest income, a byproduct of the $1.63 billion spent on buybacks earlier in the fiscal year, added to the squeeze.
The core insurance business is also cooling. Global insurance units fell 4.2%, with domestic insurance **** ignments down 7.5%, though management noted that figure would have been up 2.3% excluding the loss of a single customer. Collision claim frequency declined 3.4% even as total loss frequency hit a record 23.3% for a second quarter and severity topped $6,300 per claim, up 8.8%. And the ACV deal itself carries integration risk, since management expects only breakeven results before accretion arrives in fiscal 2028.
#quarter #vehicles #insurance
4 days ago
On September 10, MasterCraft Boat Holdings (NASDAQ:MCFT) reported a fiscal fourth quarter that looked nothing like the one a year earlier. Adjusted EBITDA more than doubled, margins expanded across the legacy business, and the company closed out a year defined by its May 15 acquisition of Marine Products Corporation. But buried inside those same results was a $10.1 million writedown that tells a very different story about one corner of the business.
MasterCraft's core boat business is the reason the quarter worked at all. Legacy net sales, meaning the business before the acquisition, climbed 21.5% year over year to $96.6 million in the fourth quarter, powered by the next generation X Series lineup and less discounting at the dealer level. That combination of volume and pricing pushed legacy adjusted EBITDA margin up 730 basis points to 19.3%, up from 12% a year earlier. Once the newly acquired Chaparral and Robalo brands are added in, which contributed for only six weeks after the deal closed on May 15, consolidated fourth quarter net sales reached $129.9 million, up 63.4%, and adjusted EBITDA hit $20.5 million, up 114.9%.
The company also cleaned up its channel. Dealer field inventory for the legacy business fell 30% year over year, with turnover now running ahead of pre-pandemic levels, a sign dealers are selling boats rather than sitting on them. Full-year adjusted net income reached $30.2 million, or $1.76 per diluted share, up from $15.1 million, or $0.92 per share, in fiscal 2025. The company generated $22.3 million in free cash flow for the year and, as of June 30, held $43.9 million in cash, zero debt, and a fully available $75 million credit line. MasterCraft's own retail sales grew low single digits for the year even as the broader powerboat industry fell mid to high single digits, and the newer Robalo brand posted high single-digit retail growth in the fishing boat category.
The picture gets murkier once you look past the flagship brand. The Leisure segment, home to the Crest and Balise pontoon boats, saw fourth-quarter sales fall 11.2% year over year to $12.1 million, and the company booked a $10.1 million non-cash impairment against Crest brand ******* ets tied to what management called current category conditions. On a GAAP basis, that charge combined with acquisition costs and purchase accounting adjustments turned the quarter into a net loss of $7 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, compared to net income of $5.5 million a year earlier. Operating expenses rose $23.1 million in the quarter, including $5.9 million in transaction costs tied to the acquisition.
#million #legacy
MasterCraft's core boat business is the reason the quarter worked at all. Legacy net sales, meaning the business before the acquisition, climbed 21.5% year over year to $96.6 million in the fourth quarter, powered by the next generation X Series lineup and less discounting at the dealer level. That combination of volume and pricing pushed legacy adjusted EBITDA margin up 730 basis points to 19.3%, up from 12% a year earlier. Once the newly acquired Chaparral and Robalo brands are added in, which contributed for only six weeks after the deal closed on May 15, consolidated fourth quarter net sales reached $129.9 million, up 63.4%, and adjusted EBITDA hit $20.5 million, up 114.9%.
The company also cleaned up its channel. Dealer field inventory for the legacy business fell 30% year over year, with turnover now running ahead of pre-pandemic levels, a sign dealers are selling boats rather than sitting on them. Full-year adjusted net income reached $30.2 million, or $1.76 per diluted share, up from $15.1 million, or $0.92 per share, in fiscal 2025. The company generated $22.3 million in free cash flow for the year and, as of June 30, held $43.9 million in cash, zero debt, and a fully available $75 million credit line. MasterCraft's own retail sales grew low single digits for the year even as the broader powerboat industry fell mid to high single digits, and the newer Robalo brand posted high single-digit retail growth in the fishing boat category.
The picture gets murkier once you look past the flagship brand. The Leisure segment, home to the Crest and Balise pontoon boats, saw fourth-quarter sales fall 11.2% year over year to $12.1 million, and the company booked a $10.1 million non-cash impairment against Crest brand ******* ets tied to what management called current category conditions. On a GAAP basis, that charge combined with acquisition costs and purchase accounting adjustments turned the quarter into a net loss of $7 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, compared to net income of $5.5 million a year earlier. Operating expenses rose $23.1 million in the quarter, including $5.9 million in transaction costs tied to the acquisition.
#million #legacy
4 days ago
After five LaLiga matches, Elche are creating more attacking threat than last season, with npxG created at 1.13 per 90 compared with 0.97 across last season's 38 games. At the other end, they are allowing 1.37 npxG per 90, up from 1.34. They are scoring 1.13 goals and conceding 2.45 per 90, compared with 1.21 and 1.41 respectively last season.
2025-26's leading chance creator was Germán Valera with 42 chances created (1.27 per 90), 11 of them big, and 4.60 xA. He leads again in 2026-27, now on 8 chances (1.68 per 90) from 429 minutes.
The 2026-27 most-used starters include five of the 11 players in the 2025-26 selection. Gonzalo Villar, Fer Niño, Buba Sangaré, Federico Redondo, Facundo Buonanotte and Tete Morente are now in that group. The centre-backs are receiving the ball deeper than last season. They are winning 5.6 second **** per game, down from 6.2.
Their main source of passing threat remains the left flank in the final third, which accounts for 33%, up from 26% last season. Passes from the right flank in the final third contribute 27%, up from 21% last season.
#flank
2025-26's leading chance creator was Germán Valera with 42 chances created (1.27 per 90), 11 of them big, and 4.60 xA. He leads again in 2026-27, now on 8 chances (1.68 per 90) from 429 minutes.
The 2026-27 most-used starters include five of the 11 players in the 2025-26 selection. Gonzalo Villar, Fer Niño, Buba Sangaré, Federico Redondo, Facundo Buonanotte and Tete Morente are now in that group. The centre-backs are receiving the ball deeper than last season. They are winning 5.6 second **** per game, down from 6.2.
Their main source of passing threat remains the left flank in the final third, which accounts for 33%, up from 26% last season. Passes from the right flank in the final third contribute 27%, up from 21% last season.
#flank
4 days ago
A month after the death of Hayden Panettiere, the investigation into how the "Heroes" and "Nashville" actress died now reportedly spans two coasts.
Panettiere died Aug. 16 at an apartment complex in Greenville, South Carolina, police confirmed to USA TODAY, while a 911 call obtained by Reuters, TMZ and other outlets revealed the "Scream" franchise actress was in cardiac arrest after a possible overdose. Days after her death, the Drug Enforcement Adminstration joined the investigation.
Now, investigators in both Los Angeles and South Carolina are focused on identifying what drugs may have contributed to her death and where those drugs came from, according to ABC News, citing unnamed sources.
#panettiere #south #actress #drugs
Panettiere died Aug. 16 at an apartment complex in Greenville, South Carolina, police confirmed to USA TODAY, while a 911 call obtained by Reuters, TMZ and other outlets revealed the "Scream" franchise actress was in cardiac arrest after a possible overdose. Days after her death, the Drug Enforcement Adminstration joined the investigation.
Now, investigators in both Los Angeles and South Carolina are focused on identifying what drugs may have contributed to her death and where those drugs came from, according to ABC News, citing unnamed sources.
#panettiere #south #actress #drugs
