3 mins. ago
Jim Cramer raised concerns about The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX) during the September 10 episode of Mad Money, as he said:
We had our CNBC Investing Club meeting today… I review each of the Charitable Trust positions on the call. This time, it was pretty clinical until I got to TJX, the off-price retailer. Candidly, I lost it on TJX. I've owned the stock for the Trust for as long as I can remember, and I've never felt so worried about this franchise. They have a bunch of divisions, but the biggest one, Marmaxx, consisting of TJ Maxx and Marshalls, really blew it. Management told us that they had figured out what had gone wrong and they've already fixed it, but because of competitive reasons or whatever, they wouldn't tell us what went wrong and they wouldn't tell us how they fixed it. I found that infuriating…
I came close to saying, forget it, Jim, it's retail. Sometimes retail is seductive. I love my local TJ Maxx, and I think Home Goods is a fun place to shop. The company's almost always about the best in the industry, crushing Burlington and Ross Stores. But this time, shockingly, Ross Stores upside surprised. It crushed TJX, much better than expected... So why bother sticking your neck out for something in this group? Simple. Because some of the greatest stories of all time have come from retail. Costco's been an incredible long-term performer. Walmart's been terrific. And TJX, it's been a wonder, one of the best stocks ever.
Could they really suddenly have lost it? Did they go all LULU? I don't think so. What happens, though, is you have to be conscious that TJX is right now being buffeted by its group, which is trading down because of the decline in discretionary income from the tax that is higher gasoline. We can't tell how much of its underperformance comes from that alone or maybe the mistakes that management made and says they've corrected. In other words, these retail stocks are very hard to own, even as they seem so easy to grasp.
TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX) reported second-quarter fiscal 2027 sales of $15.18 billion, up 5% year over year, while consolidated comparable sales increased 4%. Adjusted diluted EPS rose 11% to $1.22, and the company raised its full-year diluted EPS outlook to $5.31-$5.36, or $5.15-$5.20 excluding an expected $0.16 net benefit from tariff refunds. The weakness was concentrated in Marmaxx, which includes TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Sierra. Comparable sales increased just 1%, down from 6% in the first quarter, while HomeGoods, TJX Canada and TJX International each posted comparable-sales growth of 6% or more.
#sales #time #NYSE
We had our CNBC Investing Club meeting today… I review each of the Charitable Trust positions on the call. This time, it was pretty clinical until I got to TJX, the off-price retailer. Candidly, I lost it on TJX. I've owned the stock for the Trust for as long as I can remember, and I've never felt so worried about this franchise. They have a bunch of divisions, but the biggest one, Marmaxx, consisting of TJ Maxx and Marshalls, really blew it. Management told us that they had figured out what had gone wrong and they've already fixed it, but because of competitive reasons or whatever, they wouldn't tell us what went wrong and they wouldn't tell us how they fixed it. I found that infuriating…
I came close to saying, forget it, Jim, it's retail. Sometimes retail is seductive. I love my local TJ Maxx, and I think Home Goods is a fun place to shop. The company's almost always about the best in the industry, crushing Burlington and Ross Stores. But this time, shockingly, Ross Stores upside surprised. It crushed TJX, much better than expected... So why bother sticking your neck out for something in this group? Simple. Because some of the greatest stories of all time have come from retail. Costco's been an incredible long-term performer. Walmart's been terrific. And TJX, it's been a wonder, one of the best stocks ever.
Could they really suddenly have lost it? Did they go all LULU? I don't think so. What happens, though, is you have to be conscious that TJX is right now being buffeted by its group, which is trading down because of the decline in discretionary income from the tax that is higher gasoline. We can't tell how much of its underperformance comes from that alone or maybe the mistakes that management made and says they've corrected. In other words, these retail stocks are very hard to own, even as they seem so easy to grasp.
TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX) reported second-quarter fiscal 2027 sales of $15.18 billion, up 5% year over year, while consolidated comparable sales increased 4%. Adjusted diluted EPS rose 11% to $1.22, and the company raised its full-year diluted EPS outlook to $5.31-$5.36, or $5.15-$5.20 excluding an expected $0.16 net benefit from tariff refunds. The weakness was concentrated in Marmaxx, which includes TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Sierra. Comparable sales increased just 1%, down from 6% in the first quarter, while HomeGoods, TJX Canada and TJX International each posted comparable-sales growth of 6% or more.
#sales #time #NYSE
7 mins. ago
The Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in three years in a unanimous decision on Wednesday, with central bankers now seeing a second hike this year to arrest sticky inflation.
The Federal Open Market Committee voted to raise its benchmark interest rate to the range of 3.75% to 4% from 3.5% to 3.75%, the first rate hike since July 2023, as renewed tensions in the Middle East drive oil prices higher and raise concerns about broadening price pressures.
"We now have data broadly defined that says the economy has indeed strengthened," Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh said in a press conference following the meeting. "Underlying growth is higher. Inflation is the problem. Stable prices have been the problem for, now, more than five and a half years.
"So what the committee decided to do today was take an action to ensure a timely return to our price stability."
Noting that the economy is essentially at full employment, Warsh said he thinks the Fed can tame inflation without depressing growth.
#committee #rate
The Federal Open Market Committee voted to raise its benchmark interest rate to the range of 3.75% to 4% from 3.5% to 3.75%, the first rate hike since July 2023, as renewed tensions in the Middle East drive oil prices higher and raise concerns about broadening price pressures.
"We now have data broadly defined that says the economy has indeed strengthened," Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh said in a press conference following the meeting. "Underlying growth is higher. Inflation is the problem. Stable prices have been the problem for, now, more than five and a half years.
"So what the committee decided to do today was take an action to ensure a timely return to our price stability."
Noting that the economy is essentially at full employment, Warsh said he thinks the Fed can tame inflation without depressing growth.
#committee #rate
8 mins. ago
On this episode of Stock Movers:- Dave & Buster's (PLAY) shares are lower after it reported revenue for the second quarter that missed the average ***** yst estimate.- Coinbase (COIN) along with other crypto shares along with Bitcoin are sliding ahead of the Senate's vote on the CLARITY Act that would regulate digital ***** ets and the crypto industry.- Waystar (WAY) shares are higher after Reuters reported that the firm is exploring options, including a sale, two years after a public listing in New York.
#dave
#dave
12 mins. ago
Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C)'s CFO Gonzalo Luchetti said the bank expects return on tangible common equity (RoTCE) to come in slightly above 11% in 2026, while also indicating that Citi will increase stock buybacks from the $13 billion repurchased in 2025. The bank plans to accelerate roughly $500 million of investment by year-end, including spending on severance and marketing intended to expand its credit-card and wealth-management businesses. Citi also expects to remove Banamex from its balance sheet in 2027, which will create an estimated $9 billion currency-translation adjustment loss.
The 11%+ target is meaningful because Citi's profitability has already improved materially. In the second quarter, Citi generated $24.8 billion of revenue, up 14% year over year, while net income rose 45% to $5.8 billion. Investment-banking revenue increased 44% to $1.55 billion, and net interest income increased 13%. Citi's SEC filing shows second-quarter RoTCE of 13.0%, versus 8.7% a year earlier, while the first half of 2026 produced a 13.1% RoTCE. The new guidance therefore suggests management believes profitability can remain above the longer-term 11%-13% RoTCE range Citi established for 2027-28, despite additional investment spending.
Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock.com
The bullish argument is that Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) appears to be converting its multiyear restructuring into higher returns while simultaneously returning more capital to shareholders. The move from 8.7% RoTCE in the second quarter of 2025 to 13.0% in the second quarter of 2026 represents a substantial improvement in capital efficiency. Citi's efficiency ratio also improved to 57.4% from 62.7%, indicating that revenue growth is increasingly translating into operating leverage rather than being absorbed by expenses. That is particularly relevant because management now intends to spend another roughly $500 million on severance, marketing, and growth initiatives; if these investments produce the intended expansion in cards and wealth management, they could support revenue growth without derailing the profitability trajectory.
Capital returns provide another positive lever. Citi repurchased $13 billion of stock in 2025 and now expects to increase that amount, while its June 2026 CET1 ratio remained 12.78%, comfortably above its 11.6% standardized regulatory requirement. Buybacks can reduce tangible common equity and shares outstanding, potentially supporting both RoTCE and per-share earnings when executed below intrinsic value. Citi's tangible book value per share had already risen 7% year over year to $100.89 by June 30, 2026. The combination of higher operating profitability, shrinking share count, and improving capital efficiency strengthens the case for a valuation re-rating if Citi can sustain returns above 11%.
#year #management
The 11%+ target is meaningful because Citi's profitability has already improved materially. In the second quarter, Citi generated $24.8 billion of revenue, up 14% year over year, while net income rose 45% to $5.8 billion. Investment-banking revenue increased 44% to $1.55 billion, and net interest income increased 13%. Citi's SEC filing shows second-quarter RoTCE of 13.0%, versus 8.7% a year earlier, while the first half of 2026 produced a 13.1% RoTCE. The new guidance therefore suggests management believes profitability can remain above the longer-term 11%-13% RoTCE range Citi established for 2027-28, despite additional investment spending.
Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock.com
The bullish argument is that Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) appears to be converting its multiyear restructuring into higher returns while simultaneously returning more capital to shareholders. The move from 8.7% RoTCE in the second quarter of 2025 to 13.0% in the second quarter of 2026 represents a substantial improvement in capital efficiency. Citi's efficiency ratio also improved to 57.4% from 62.7%, indicating that revenue growth is increasingly translating into operating leverage rather than being absorbed by expenses. That is particularly relevant because management now intends to spend another roughly $500 million on severance, marketing, and growth initiatives; if these investments produce the intended expansion in cards and wealth management, they could support revenue growth without derailing the profitability trajectory.
Capital returns provide another positive lever. Citi repurchased $13 billion of stock in 2025 and now expects to increase that amount, while its June 2026 CET1 ratio remained 12.78%, comfortably above its 11.6% standardized regulatory requirement. Buybacks can reduce tangible common equity and shares outstanding, potentially supporting both RoTCE and per-share earnings when executed below intrinsic value. Citi's tangible book value per share had already risen 7% year over year to $100.89 by June 30, 2026. The combination of higher operating profitability, shrinking share count, and improving capital efficiency strengthens the case for a valuation re-rating if Citi can sustain returns above 11%.
#year #management
23 mins. ago
Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO)'s decision to rebrand its day-to-day identity as "Novo" and launch a cultural reset is primarily a strategic response to the company's loss of momentum in the obesity-drug market, rather than a financial restructuring in itself. Reuters reports that the company is trying to regain competitiveness as pressure from Eli Lilly intensifies. The move comes as Novo prepares to unveil new strategic ambitions at its September 21 Capital Markets Day, making the cultural reset potentially important if it leads to faster decision-making, stronger commercial execution and a more aggressive R&D approach.
The underlying business still has substantial scale to protect. Novo generated DKK 309.1 billion of 2025 sales and DKK 127.7 billion of operating profit, while obesity-care sales rose 31% at constant exchange rates to DKK 82.3 billion. However, the company also spent around DKK 8 billion on its transformation in 2025, and its diabetes value-market share fell 3.6 percentage points to 30.1%. The reset therefore comes at a critical point: Novo remains the global obesity-market leader, with a 59.6% branded-volume share in 2025, but Lilly is rapidly narrowing the competitive gap.
A successful cultural reset could improve Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO)'s execution at a time when the company needs to convert its scientific and commercial ***** ets into faster growth. Reuters reported that CEO Mike Doustdar is already seeking to accelerate R&D and streamline decision-making following investor concerns about the pipeline and competition from Lilly. If the reorganization reduces internal bureaucracy and improves the speed of clinical, regulatory and commercial decisions, it could help Novo extract more value from its existing obesity portfolio while advancing next-generation treatments before the semaglutide patent cliff expected early next decade.
The company also has ***** ets that give a cultural and operational reset something concrete to build around. Wegovy was available in 52 countries by the end of 2025, while the company's higher-dose Wegovy achieved 20.7% weight loss in Phase 3 studies and its oral Wegovy achieved 16.6% weight loss. More recently, Wegovy received approval in China for MASH, expanding its potential beyond weight management and cardiovascular benefits into another large metabolic-disease market. If Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) can combine these products with better execution, the reset could support higher patient volumes and extend the commercial life of its GLP-1 franchise, helping defend revenue and cash flow despite pricing pressure.
#cultural #company #lilly
The underlying business still has substantial scale to protect. Novo generated DKK 309.1 billion of 2025 sales and DKK 127.7 billion of operating profit, while obesity-care sales rose 31% at constant exchange rates to DKK 82.3 billion. However, the company also spent around DKK 8 billion on its transformation in 2025, and its diabetes value-market share fell 3.6 percentage points to 30.1%. The reset therefore comes at a critical point: Novo remains the global obesity-market leader, with a 59.6% branded-volume share in 2025, but Lilly is rapidly narrowing the competitive gap.
A successful cultural reset could improve Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO)'s execution at a time when the company needs to convert its scientific and commercial ***** ets into faster growth. Reuters reported that CEO Mike Doustdar is already seeking to accelerate R&D and streamline decision-making following investor concerns about the pipeline and competition from Lilly. If the reorganization reduces internal bureaucracy and improves the speed of clinical, regulatory and commercial decisions, it could help Novo extract more value from its existing obesity portfolio while advancing next-generation treatments before the semaglutide patent cliff expected early next decade.
The company also has ***** ets that give a cultural and operational reset something concrete to build around. Wegovy was available in 52 countries by the end of 2025, while the company's higher-dose Wegovy achieved 20.7% weight loss in Phase 3 studies and its oral Wegovy achieved 16.6% weight loss. More recently, Wegovy received approval in China for MASH, expanding its potential beyond weight management and cardiovascular benefits into another large metabolic-disease market. If Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) can combine these products with better execution, the reset could support higher patient volumes and extend the commercial life of its GLP-1 franchise, helping defend revenue and cash flow despite pricing pressure.
#cultural #company #lilly
28 mins. ago
ASML Holding N.V. (NASDAQ:ASML) is examining ways to produce more than 110 EUV lithography systems in 2028, according to JPMorgan ***** ysts following a meeting with CFO Roger Dassen. The company is already nearly sold out for 2027 and expects to produce at least 80 EUV systems that year, meaning output above 110 in 2028 would represent at least a 37.5% increase from the 2027 level. JPMorgan said the main constraint has shifted toward ***** embly speed rather than the availability of critical components, suggesting ASML believes additional capacity can be unlocked through manufacturing and ***** embly improvements.
The potential increase is being driven primarily by AI-related demand. ASML's existing EUV machines, which cost roughly $200 million each, are essential for manufacturing leading-edge AI processors, while customers including TSMC, Samsung, SK Hynix and Intel are expanding advanced-chip capacity. Reuters reported separately that virtually all of ASML's EUV production capacity is booked through 2027, while the company has begun construction of a new Eindhoven facility designed to accelerate tool ***** embly and eventually accommodate up to 20,000 workers.
The strongest bullish implication is that ASML Holding N.V. (NASDAQ:ASML) may be able to convert exceptionally strong demand into higher unit volumes rather than simply relying on price increases. Moving from at least 80 EUV systems in 2027 to more than 110 in 2028 would materially expand the number of high-value systems ASML can monetize. This comes after the company already raised its 2026 revenue outlook to €43 billion–€45 billion, compared with its previous €36 billion–€40 billion range, while targeting a 54%–56% gross margin. Reuters also reported that second-quarter revenue reached €9.3 billion with a 54% gross margin, demonstrating that stronger AI-driven demand is already translating into financial performance.
The longer-term competitive position is particularly favorable because ASML Holding N.V. (NASDAQ:ASML) effectively has no commercial competitor in EUV. JPMorgan estimates that ASML held 94% of the overall lithography market in 2025, while Reuters describes the company as having maintained a monopoly in EUV since the late 2010s. At the same time, customers are committing to ASML's next-generation High-NA technology: the machines cost approximately $400 million, can print features about 40% smaller than existing EUV systems, and TSMC, Samsung, and SK Hynix have all established plans for production adoption. If AI chip demand remains strong enough to support both higher low-NA volumes and eventual High-NA adoption, ASML could see a multi-year increase in system shipments, revenue, and potentially cash generation while strengthening its already exceptional competitive moat.
#company
The potential increase is being driven primarily by AI-related demand. ASML's existing EUV machines, which cost roughly $200 million each, are essential for manufacturing leading-edge AI processors, while customers including TSMC, Samsung, SK Hynix and Intel are expanding advanced-chip capacity. Reuters reported separately that virtually all of ASML's EUV production capacity is booked through 2027, while the company has begun construction of a new Eindhoven facility designed to accelerate tool ***** embly and eventually accommodate up to 20,000 workers.
The strongest bullish implication is that ASML Holding N.V. (NASDAQ:ASML) may be able to convert exceptionally strong demand into higher unit volumes rather than simply relying on price increases. Moving from at least 80 EUV systems in 2027 to more than 110 in 2028 would materially expand the number of high-value systems ASML can monetize. This comes after the company already raised its 2026 revenue outlook to €43 billion–€45 billion, compared with its previous €36 billion–€40 billion range, while targeting a 54%–56% gross margin. Reuters also reported that second-quarter revenue reached €9.3 billion with a 54% gross margin, demonstrating that stronger AI-driven demand is already translating into financial performance.
The longer-term competitive position is particularly favorable because ASML Holding N.V. (NASDAQ:ASML) effectively has no commercial competitor in EUV. JPMorgan estimates that ASML held 94% of the overall lithography market in 2025, while Reuters describes the company as having maintained a monopoly in EUV since the late 2010s. At the same time, customers are committing to ASML's next-generation High-NA technology: the machines cost approximately $400 million, can print features about 40% smaller than existing EUV systems, and TSMC, Samsung, and SK Hynix have all established plans for production adoption. If AI chip demand remains strong enough to support both higher low-NA volumes and eventual High-NA adoption, ASML could see a multi-year increase in system shipments, revenue, and potentially cash generation while strengthening its already exceptional competitive moat.
#company
34 mins. ago
GSK plc (NYSE:GSK) plans to close its vaccine manufacturing facility in Dresden, Germany, by summer 2027, putting 641 jobs at risk. The decision reflects declining demand for traditional egg-based flu vaccines, which has left GSK with more manufacturing capacity than it needs. GSK reviewed its Dresden and Ste-Foy, Canada, flu vaccine sites and chose to consolidate production in Canada, which it says can meet anticipated demand more sustainably and competitively.
The closure comes as GSK plc (NYSE:GSK) is shifting its influenza strategy toward newer technology: the company is advancing an mRNA-based seasonal flu vaccine into Phase III after Phase II results showed stronger immune responses than standard-dose vaccines in younger adults and high-dose vaccines in older adults. The broader vaccine environment has also weakened, with Reuters reporting declining sales across flu, RSV, and other vaccines amid lower demand and policy-related pressures, increasing the importance of manufacturing discipline and portfolio selection.
Copyright: kadmy / 123RF Stock Photo
The closure could ultimately strengthen GSK plc (NYSE:GSK)'s margins and cash generation by removing excess capacity from a declining part of the influenza market rather than continuing to carry the fixed costs of an underutilized facility. GSK explicitly said demand for traditional egg-based flu vaccines is falling and that it has more capacity than required, while the Canadian facility can meet anticipated future demand competitively.
This is particularly important because GSK's vaccine business remains a significant earnings contributor but is increasingly being driven by products with better growth prospects: second-quarter 2026 vaccine sales rose 8% to £2.3 billion, with meningitis vaccines up 21% and Arexvy sales increasing by more than 100%, while Shingrix generated £0.9 billion. The Dresden decision therefore looks less like a retreat from vaccines overall and more like a reallocation of manufacturing capacity away from mature egg-based products toward higher-value technologies.
#vaccine
The closure comes as GSK plc (NYSE:GSK) is shifting its influenza strategy toward newer technology: the company is advancing an mRNA-based seasonal flu vaccine into Phase III after Phase II results showed stronger immune responses than standard-dose vaccines in younger adults and high-dose vaccines in older adults. The broader vaccine environment has also weakened, with Reuters reporting declining sales across flu, RSV, and other vaccines amid lower demand and policy-related pressures, increasing the importance of manufacturing discipline and portfolio selection.
Copyright: kadmy / 123RF Stock Photo
The closure could ultimately strengthen GSK plc (NYSE:GSK)'s margins and cash generation by removing excess capacity from a declining part of the influenza market rather than continuing to carry the fixed costs of an underutilized facility. GSK explicitly said demand for traditional egg-based flu vaccines is falling and that it has more capacity than required, while the Canadian facility can meet anticipated future demand competitively.
This is particularly important because GSK's vaccine business remains a significant earnings contributor but is increasingly being driven by products with better growth prospects: second-quarter 2026 vaccine sales rose 8% to £2.3 billion, with meningitis vaccines up 21% and Arexvy sales increasing by more than 100%, while Shingrix generated £0.9 billion. The Dresden decision therefore looks less like a retreat from vaccines overall and more like a reallocation of manufacturing capacity away from mature egg-based products toward higher-value technologies.
#vaccine
36 mins. ago
Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) is increasing the expected cost of its fiscal 2026 restructuring plan by about $700 million to roughly $2.8 billion as it simultaneously ramps up spending to capture demand for AI cloud services. The additional costs include severance, contract terminations and other exit expenses, with some restructuring directly linked to adopting AI across parts of the organization.
Oracle had already recorded $1.8 billion of restructuring expenses in fiscal 2026, compared with $299 million in fiscal 2025, showing how materially the company is accelerating its operational transformation. The restructuring comes alongside an unusually large AI investment cycle. Oracle booked more than $30 billion of new AI cloud contracts in its latest quarter, lifting its remaining performance obligations/revenue backlog to $664 billion, while roughly half of that backlog is expected to convert into revenue over the next 36 months.
The strongest bull argument is that the additional restructuring expense is part of a broader shift toward a higher-growth cloud and AI business rather than simply a deterioration in cost control. Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)'s restructuring program is explicitly aimed at improving efficiency while reallocating resources toward cloud-based offerings and second-generation cloud infrastructure. If the $2.8 billion restructuring program reduces lower-growth costs and enables Oracle to redirect personnel and capital toward AI infrastructure, the near-term earnings pressure could support stronger operating leverage later as cloud revenue scales.
More importantly, the restructuring is occurring against evidence that AI demand is already translating into contracted revenue. Oracle added more than $30 billion of AI cloud contracts in one quarter, pushing its backlog to $664 billion, above the $639.89 billion ****** yst estimate. Management said most of the newly contracted revenue would not require substantial incremental capital because customers are using prepayments or supplying their own hardware. That is particularly important because Oracle's biggest weakness has been the mismatch between rapid infrastructure investment and current cash generation. If customer-funded capacity continues to reduce Oracle's upfront capital burden, the company could convert its huge backlog into revenue without proportionally increasing its cash burn.
The early financial evidence also supports the possibility that the AI strategy is beginning to improve Oracle's growth profile. Revenue in the recent quarter rose 30% year over year to $19.3 billion, adjusted EPS reached $1.92 versus the $1.74 ****** yst consensus, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) raised its fiscal 2027 adjusted EPS forecast from $8.05 to $8.10. Meanwhile, first-quarter free cash flow of negative $5.4 billion was substantially better than both the expected negative $9.56 billion and the previous-quarter negative $11.48 billion. If this trajectory continues, the $700 mi
Oracle had already recorded $1.8 billion of restructuring expenses in fiscal 2026, compared with $299 million in fiscal 2025, showing how materially the company is accelerating its operational transformation. The restructuring comes alongside an unusually large AI investment cycle. Oracle booked more than $30 billion of new AI cloud contracts in its latest quarter, lifting its remaining performance obligations/revenue backlog to $664 billion, while roughly half of that backlog is expected to convert into revenue over the next 36 months.
The strongest bull argument is that the additional restructuring expense is part of a broader shift toward a higher-growth cloud and AI business rather than simply a deterioration in cost control. Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)'s restructuring program is explicitly aimed at improving efficiency while reallocating resources toward cloud-based offerings and second-generation cloud infrastructure. If the $2.8 billion restructuring program reduces lower-growth costs and enables Oracle to redirect personnel and capital toward AI infrastructure, the near-term earnings pressure could support stronger operating leverage later as cloud revenue scales.
More importantly, the restructuring is occurring against evidence that AI demand is already translating into contracted revenue. Oracle added more than $30 billion of AI cloud contracts in one quarter, pushing its backlog to $664 billion, above the $639.89 billion ****** yst estimate. Management said most of the newly contracted revenue would not require substantial incremental capital because customers are using prepayments or supplying their own hardware. That is particularly important because Oracle's biggest weakness has been the mismatch between rapid infrastructure investment and current cash generation. If customer-funded capacity continues to reduce Oracle's upfront capital burden, the company could convert its huge backlog into revenue without proportionally increasing its cash burn.
The early financial evidence also supports the possibility that the AI strategy is beginning to improve Oracle's growth profile. Revenue in the recent quarter rose 30% year over year to $19.3 billion, adjusted EPS reached $1.92 versus the $1.74 ****** yst consensus, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) raised its fiscal 2027 adjusted EPS forecast from $8.05 to $8.10. Meanwhile, first-quarter free cash flow of negative $5.4 billion was substantially better than both the expected negative $9.56 billion and the previous-quarter negative $11.48 billion. If this trajectory continues, the $700 mi
39 mins. ago
Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE:APO) is reportedly in talks to acquire Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) DePuy Synthes orthopedics business in a transaction that could value the unit at close to $20 billion, according to Bloomberg, as reported by Reuters. J&J generated $9.3 billion of revenue from the orthopedics business in 2025, making the potential transaction material for both companies. The discussions could reach an agreement within weeks, although J&J is also considering a public-market spin-off. This is consistent with J&J's October 2025 decision to separate DePuy Synthes within an expected 18-to-24-month timeframe and shift its MedTech portfolio toward higher-growth, higher-margin businesses.
For Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE:APO), the attraction is the opportunity to acquire a large, established medical-device franchise with substantial recurring demand from joint-replacement and surgical procedures. A roughly $20 billion valuation against $9.3 billion of 2025 revenue implies a price-to-sales multiple of about 2.2x, giving Apollo room to pursue operational improvements, portfolio rationalization, and margin expansion if the business is acquired at an attractive valuation.
DePuy Synthes also has meaningful scale and leading positions across major orthopedics categories, while J&J has recently invested in technologies that could strengthen the franchise, including an agreement covering Gemtrack tracking technology for robotic and navigation-assisted joint procedures and the acquisition of Expanding Innovations for expandable spine implants. Apollo is also entering the potential deal from a position of considerable financial scale: it had approximately $1.05 trillion of **** ets under management as of June 30, 2026, with $198 billion in equity strategies and $849 billion in credit strategies. Its second-quarter results included $111 billion of gross capital deployment, demonstrating the capacity to execute large transactions.
For Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ), a sale could accelerate the portfolio transformation that management has already identified as a strategic priority while potentially delivering a sizeable upfront cash inflow. J&J explicitly said its planned orthopedics separation should increase the company's top-line growth and operating margins by allowing it to concentrate on Oncology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Cardiovascular, Surgery and Vision.
The company has also been restructuring orthopedics, with $307 million of restructuring expense in 2025, following $167 million in 2024 and $319 million in 2023, primarily tied to market and product exits. A sale could therefore remove a business that has required restructuring resources while allowing J&J to redeploy capital toward areas it views as higher growth and higher margin.
#NYSE #johnson
For Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE:APO), the attraction is the opportunity to acquire a large, established medical-device franchise with substantial recurring demand from joint-replacement and surgical procedures. A roughly $20 billion valuation against $9.3 billion of 2025 revenue implies a price-to-sales multiple of about 2.2x, giving Apollo room to pursue operational improvements, portfolio rationalization, and margin expansion if the business is acquired at an attractive valuation.
DePuy Synthes also has meaningful scale and leading positions across major orthopedics categories, while J&J has recently invested in technologies that could strengthen the franchise, including an agreement covering Gemtrack tracking technology for robotic and navigation-assisted joint procedures and the acquisition of Expanding Innovations for expandable spine implants. Apollo is also entering the potential deal from a position of considerable financial scale: it had approximately $1.05 trillion of **** ets under management as of June 30, 2026, with $198 billion in equity strategies and $849 billion in credit strategies. Its second-quarter results included $111 billion of gross capital deployment, demonstrating the capacity to execute large transactions.
For Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ), a sale could accelerate the portfolio transformation that management has already identified as a strategic priority while potentially delivering a sizeable upfront cash inflow. J&J explicitly said its planned orthopedics separation should increase the company's top-line growth and operating margins by allowing it to concentrate on Oncology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Cardiovascular, Surgery and Vision.
The company has also been restructuring orthopedics, with $307 million of restructuring expense in 2025, following $167 million in 2024 and $319 million in 2023, primarily tied to market and product exits. A sale could therefore remove a business that has required restructuring resources while allowing J&J to redeploy capital toward areas it views as higher growth and higher margin.
#NYSE #johnson
42 mins. ago
The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) is down by -0.19% today, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down by -0.64%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down by -0.08%. E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are down -0.21%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are down -0.10%.
Stock indexes are under pressure today as elevated crude oil prices raise inflation expectations and push bond yields higher worldwide. The 10-year T-note yield rose to a 19-year high of 5.04% today. The 10-year German Bund yield rose to a 17-year high of 3.57%, and the 10-year **** an JGB bond yield rose to a 30-year high of 3.04%. Also, enthusiasm for the AI trade, the major driver of stock gains this year, remains tempered as debate continues over whether the technology may inflict catastrophic harm and whether political pressure for new regulations may slow development.
Goldman Sachs Expects Fed Chair Kevin Warsh to Raise Rates This Week — But Not Because of Oil Prices.
Morgan Stanley Doubles Down on Apple Stock as New Offerings Become 'More Exciting'
The EV Bubble Has Burst. How to Play Rivian Stock Now.
#today #yield #high
Stock indexes are under pressure today as elevated crude oil prices raise inflation expectations and push bond yields higher worldwide. The 10-year T-note yield rose to a 19-year high of 5.04% today. The 10-year German Bund yield rose to a 17-year high of 3.57%, and the 10-year **** an JGB bond yield rose to a 30-year high of 3.04%. Also, enthusiasm for the AI trade, the major driver of stock gains this year, remains tempered as debate continues over whether the technology may inflict catastrophic harm and whether political pressure for new regulations may slow development.
Goldman Sachs Expects Fed Chair Kevin Warsh to Raise Rates This Week — But Not Because of Oil Prices.
Morgan Stanley Doubles Down on Apple Stock as New Offerings Become 'More Exciting'
The EV Bubble Has Burst. How to Play Rivian Stock Now.
#today #yield #high
44 mins. ago
Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) is reportedly exploring the sale of several mass-market personal care brands, including Softsoap, Irish Spring and Speed Stick, in a portfolio reshaping effort that could generate more than $1 billion. The company is working with Goldman Sachs on the potential divestiture. Personal care accounted for roughly 17% of Colgate-Palmolive's 2025 net sales, or about $3.5 billion, while oral care remains the company's largest business.
The move comes as Colgate faces pressure in its North American business. Although the company recently reported a 4.9% increase in net sales, organic sales in North America declined 3%, highlighting competitive pressure in a mature market. The strategy is also consistent with a broader consumer-goods shift toward simplifying portfolios and concentrating capital on higher-growth categories. Unilever, Nestlé, and other major consumer companies have similarly been selling slower-growing or non-core businesses.
The biggest positive is that Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) could become a more focused and potentially higher-quality business. Selling brands that no longer fit its highest-priority growth areas would allow management to concentrate capital, marketing spending, and management attention on oral care, pet nutrition, and other businesses where Colgate has stronger competitive advantages. The company's decision would therefore be less about abandoning personal care altogether and more about improving the quality of the remaining portfolio.
A sale could also unlock meaningful shareholder value. If the divestitures generate more than $1 billion, Colgate would have additional capital that could be used for debt reduction, share repurchases, acquisitions, or investment behind its strongest brands. In a mature consumer-staples company, disciplined capital allocation can have an outsized impact on earnings growth and shareholder returns. There is also evidence that portfolio simplification is becoming increasingly attractive across the consumer-goods industry. The Wall Street Journal has highlighted how companies such as Unilever and Nestlé are shedding businesses that add complexity without providing sufficient growth. The underlying argument is that the benefits of owning a very broad portfolio have diminished as consumer preferences become more fragmented and smaller brands become better at responding to trends.
Most importantly, the divestiture could improve Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL)'s strategic focus at a time when North American competition is challenging. Rather than allocating resources to defend slower-growing personal-care brands, management could direct investment toward categories and geographies with better long-term growth prospects. That could ultimately support margins and organic growth even if the immediate revenue base becomes smaller.
#colgate #company #care
The move comes as Colgate faces pressure in its North American business. Although the company recently reported a 4.9% increase in net sales, organic sales in North America declined 3%, highlighting competitive pressure in a mature market. The strategy is also consistent with a broader consumer-goods shift toward simplifying portfolios and concentrating capital on higher-growth categories. Unilever, Nestlé, and other major consumer companies have similarly been selling slower-growing or non-core businesses.
The biggest positive is that Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) could become a more focused and potentially higher-quality business. Selling brands that no longer fit its highest-priority growth areas would allow management to concentrate capital, marketing spending, and management attention on oral care, pet nutrition, and other businesses where Colgate has stronger competitive advantages. The company's decision would therefore be less about abandoning personal care altogether and more about improving the quality of the remaining portfolio.
A sale could also unlock meaningful shareholder value. If the divestitures generate more than $1 billion, Colgate would have additional capital that could be used for debt reduction, share repurchases, acquisitions, or investment behind its strongest brands. In a mature consumer-staples company, disciplined capital allocation can have an outsized impact on earnings growth and shareholder returns. There is also evidence that portfolio simplification is becoming increasingly attractive across the consumer-goods industry. The Wall Street Journal has highlighted how companies such as Unilever and Nestlé are shedding businesses that add complexity without providing sufficient growth. The underlying argument is that the benefits of owning a very broad portfolio have diminished as consumer preferences become more fragmented and smaller brands become better at responding to trends.
Most importantly, the divestiture could improve Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL)'s strategic focus at a time when North American competition is challenging. Rather than allocating resources to defend slower-growing personal-care brands, management could direct investment toward categories and geographies with better long-term growth prospects. That could ultimately support margins and organic growth even if the immediate revenue base becomes smaller.
#colgate #company #care
1 hr. ago
The yuan-denominated crude oil futures trading in China hit this week their highest level since the contract was launched in 2018 as escalating threats to Middle East's oil supply and increased purchases by Chinese refiners push prices higher.
Launched in March 2018, the INE crude oil futures contract (SC) is a physical-settlement contract priced and traded in Chinese yuan on the Shanghai International Energy Exchange.
The crude futures soared to as much as 929.4 yuan, or $138.50 per barrel, on the exchange, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
The price spike followed the intensified concerns about supply from the Middle East after the East-West oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia was attacked by drones late last week, forcing the Kingdom to temporarily shut it down.
The international crude oil benchmarks also rallied at the start of this week. As of Tuesday, no timeline has been given as to when the pipeline would come back and continue helping Saudi Arabia bypass the Strait of Hormuz with shipments out of the Red Sea port of Yanbu.
#crude #futures #middle #saudi
Launched in March 2018, the INE crude oil futures contract (SC) is a physical-settlement contract priced and traded in Chinese yuan on the Shanghai International Energy Exchange.
The crude futures soared to as much as 929.4 yuan, or $138.50 per barrel, on the exchange, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
The price spike followed the intensified concerns about supply from the Middle East after the East-West oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia was attacked by drones late last week, forcing the Kingdom to temporarily shut it down.
The international crude oil benchmarks also rallied at the start of this week. As of Tuesday, no timeline has been given as to when the pipeline would come back and continue helping Saudi Arabia bypass the Strait of Hormuz with shipments out of the Red Sea port of Yanbu.
#crude #futures #middle #saudi
2 hours ago
Prosper Stars & Stripes, a long/short equity fund, recently released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. In Q2 2026, the portfolio delivered a strong net return of +30.1% compared to the Russell 2000 Index's +21.5% return and the HFRX Equity Hedge Index's +10.3% return. The long book drove performance, generating a 43.2% gross contribution, while average net exposure remained relatively modest at 47%. U.S. economic growth remained resilient despite inflation concerns, elevated energy prices, and geopolitical uncertainty. Markets rallied sharply after easing U.S.-Iran tensions pushed oil prices lower, supporting renewed risk appetite. Small-cap equities benefited significantly, with Information Technology, Industrials, and Health Care leading gains, while Energy declined as crude prices fell. Year to date, the Composite returned +23.7%, slightly ahead of the Russell 2000's +22.6% and well above the HFRI Equity Hedge Index's +9.7%. Additionally, you can review the Portfolio's top 5 holdings to see its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Prosper Stars & Stripes highlighted Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI). Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) is a Swiss technology company that designs, manufactures, and markets software-enabled hardware solutions. On September 14, 2026, Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) closed at $100.36 per share. Over the past month, Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) returned 2.09%, and its shares lost 10.65% over the past 52 weeks. Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) has a market capitalization of $14.14 billion; its stock has traded within a 52-week trading range of $83.32 to $129.66.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"This year's market rally has pressured short returns and narrowed the windows to successfully monetize shorts, as we would expect. Certain themes and short ideas do continue to resonate, however. One theme that has had success is the ongoing pressure caused by the investment boom in AI crowding out spending in other areas. We have shorted Universal Display Corp (OLED), Dolby Laboratories (DLB), and Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) on this theme. We believe cost pressures on technology components such as DRAM to result in higher prices for consumer electronics. This would have a significant impact on back-to-school and holiday spending, the key periods for these companies' end markets. We expect the forecasts that these companies are providing at this time of the year to prove optimistic, as tech cost inflation is unusual. Further, we believe the so-called K-shaped economy, where consumers have felt the pressure of rising costs of living, will continue to squeeze discretionary purchases like these. Rising prices make it nearly impossible to use discounts to stimulate sales, compounding the pressure."
#pr
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Prosper Stars & Stripes highlighted Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI). Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) is a Swiss technology company that designs, manufactures, and markets software-enabled hardware solutions. On September 14, 2026, Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) closed at $100.36 per share. Over the past month, Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) returned 2.09%, and its shares lost 10.65% over the past 52 weeks. Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) has a market capitalization of $14.14 billion; its stock has traded within a 52-week trading range of $83.32 to $129.66.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"This year's market rally has pressured short returns and narrowed the windows to successfully monetize shorts, as we would expect. Certain themes and short ideas do continue to resonate, however. One theme that has had success is the ongoing pressure caused by the investment boom in AI crowding out spending in other areas. We have shorted Universal Display Corp (OLED), Dolby Laboratories (DLB), and Logitech International S.A. (NASDAQ:LOGI) on this theme. We believe cost pressures on technology components such as DRAM to result in higher prices for consumer electronics. This would have a significant impact on back-to-school and holiday spending, the key periods for these companies' end markets. We expect the forecasts that these companies are providing at this time of the year to prove optimistic, as tech cost inflation is unusual. Further, we believe the so-called K-shaped economy, where consumers have felt the pressure of rising costs of living, will continue to squeeze discretionary purchases like these. Rising prices make it nearly impossible to use discounts to stimulate sales, compounding the pressure."
#pr
2 hours ago
Prosper Stars & Stripes, a long/short equity fund, recently released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. In Q2 2026, the portfolio delivered a strong net return of +30.1% compared to the Russell 2000 Index's +21.5% return and the HFRX Equity Hedge Index's +10.3% return. The long book drove performance, generating a 43.2% gross contribution, while average net exposure remained relatively modest at 47%. U.S. economic growth remained resilient despite inflation concerns, elevated energy prices, and geopolitical uncertainty. Markets rallied sharply after easing U.S.-Iran tensions pushed oil prices lower, supporting renewed risk appetite. Small-cap equities benefited significantly, with Information Technology, Industrials, and Health Care leading gains, while Energy declined as crude prices fell. Year to date, the Composite returned +23.7%, slightly ahead of the Russell 2000's +22.6% and well above the HFRI Equity Hedge Index's +9.7%. Additionally, you can review the Portfolio's top 5 holdings to see its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Prosper Stars & Stripes highlighted Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED). Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) is an American technology company that develops and commercializes organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technologies and materials for use in display and solid-state lighting applications. On September 14, 2026, Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) closed at $76.62 per share. Over the past month, Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) declined 9.27%, and its shares lost 44.06% over the past 52 weeks. Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) has a market capitalization of $3.52 billion, and its stock traded within a 52-week range of $76.42 to $153.38.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"This year's market rally has pressured short returns and narrowed the windows to successfully monetize shorts, as we would expect. Certain themes and short ideas do continue to resonate, however. One theme that has had success is the ongoing pressure caused by the investment boom in AI crowding out spending in other areas. We have shorted Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED), Dolby Laboratories (DLB), and Logitech International (LOGI) on this theme. We believe cost pressures on technology components such as DRAM to result in higher prices for consumer electronics. This would have a significant impact on back-to-school and holiday spending, the key periods for these companies' end markets. We expect the forecasts that these companies are providing at this time of the year to prove optimistic, as tech cost inflation is unusual. Further, we believe the so-called K-shaped economy, where consumers have felt the pressure of rising costs of living, will continue to squeeze discretionary purchases like these. Rising prices make it nea
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Prosper Stars & Stripes highlighted Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED). Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) is an American technology company that develops and commercializes organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technologies and materials for use in display and solid-state lighting applications. On September 14, 2026, Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) closed at $76.62 per share. Over the past month, Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) declined 9.27%, and its shares lost 44.06% over the past 52 weeks. Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) has a market capitalization of $3.52 billion, and its stock traded within a 52-week range of $76.42 to $153.38.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"This year's market rally has pressured short returns and narrowed the windows to successfully monetize shorts, as we would expect. Certain themes and short ideas do continue to resonate, however. One theme that has had success is the ongoing pressure caused by the investment boom in AI crowding out spending in other areas. We have shorted Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED), Dolby Laboratories (DLB), and Logitech International (LOGI) on this theme. We believe cost pressures on technology components such as DRAM to result in higher prices for consumer electronics. This would have a significant impact on back-to-school and holiday spending, the key periods for these companies' end markets. We expect the forecasts that these companies are providing at this time of the year to prove optimistic, as tech cost inflation is unusual. Further, we believe the so-called K-shaped economy, where consumers have felt the pressure of rising costs of living, will continue to squeeze discretionary purchases like these. Rising prices make it nea
2 hours ago
Intel is a little higher in pre-market trading, but recently we've seen some noise as broad semiconductor de-risking continues to be one of the stories here. Intel itself has been a fairly successful story over the last year as the turnaround continues for the company.
AI industry leaders got crushed. Perhaps the prospect of slowing frontier model development, as thrown out there by multiple leaders in the industry, has spooked the markets. Investors immediately figured that slower data-center CapEx and semiconductor demand would be part of that. It is a little overdone. It's just a few words, but it looks like the market is trying to turn things around.
Furthermore, you have to keep in mind that interest rates being higher than anticipated has been a bit of a drag.
NVIDIA looks slightly positive in early market trading, with the market trying to reach toward the 50-day EMA. Again, this is about anxiety, with AI capital expenditures being the immediate problem. After all, if fewer data centers were to be built, NVIDIA is directly hit.
The market is looking at this in more fear-than-fact-based terms because NVIDIA's actual business numbers remain extraordinarily strong. So really, rates and the fear of a slowdown are fighting the reality of growth and economic numbers in this company that remain truly envy-worthy of most others.
#market #Intel #trading #company
AI industry leaders got crushed. Perhaps the prospect of slowing frontier model development, as thrown out there by multiple leaders in the industry, has spooked the markets. Investors immediately figured that slower data-center CapEx and semiconductor demand would be part of that. It is a little overdone. It's just a few words, but it looks like the market is trying to turn things around.
Furthermore, you have to keep in mind that interest rates being higher than anticipated has been a bit of a drag.
NVIDIA looks slightly positive in early market trading, with the market trying to reach toward the 50-day EMA. Again, this is about anxiety, with AI capital expenditures being the immediate problem. After all, if fewer data centers were to be built, NVIDIA is directly hit.
The market is looking at this in more fear-than-fact-based terms because NVIDIA's actual business numbers remain extraordinarily strong. So really, rates and the fear of a slowdown are fighting the reality of growth and economic numbers in this company that remain truly envy-worthy of most others.
#market #Intel #trading #company
2 hours ago
Our **** ysts just identified a stock with the potential to be the next Nvidia. Tell us how you invest and we'll show you why it's our #1 pick. Tap here.
Revenue growth of 60% year-over-year was driven by a combination of competitive share gains, market expansion, and a higher mix of in-network patients.
Management attributes the 11th consecutive quarter of gross margin expansion to attractive unit economics and volume leverage inherent in the rental business model.
The 'integrated care model' is cited as a key differentiator, where therapeutic protection is paired with responsive support services to convert clinical insights into urgent patient care.
Strategic territory management, including splitting high-volume 'platinum' territories and adding clinical specialists, is compounding growth by deepening penetration in existing accounts.
#Growth #tell
Revenue growth of 60% year-over-year was driven by a combination of competitive share gains, market expansion, and a higher mix of in-network patients.
Management attributes the 11th consecutive quarter of gross margin expansion to attractive unit economics and volume leverage inherent in the rental business model.
The 'integrated care model' is cited as a key differentiator, where therapeutic protection is paired with responsive support services to convert clinical insights into urgent patient care.
Strategic territory management, including splitting high-volume 'platinum' territories and adding clinical specialists, is compounding growth by deepening penetration in existing accounts.
#Growth #tell
2 hours ago
Soybeans are trading with contracts 4 to 5 cents lower. Futures posted Monday gains of 5 to 9 ¾ cents at the close. Fresh buying was noted, with open interest up 12,998 contracts. The cmdtyView national average Cash Bean price was up 7 3/4 cents at $12.44 1/4. Soymeal futures were up 40 cents to $3.40, with Soy Oil 35 to 56 points higher across the board. There no deliveries issued against September soybeans on the last trade day, with 6 for soybean meal and 10 deliveries against September bean oil.
Monday's Crop Progress report from NASS showed 44% of the US soybean crop dropping leaves as of Sunday. Harvest was listed at 6% complete, ahead of the 3% average pace. Condition ratings were steady at 58% gd/ex, with the Brugler500 index unchanged at 353.
Cattle Bulls Are Back in Business as Futures Prices Rise
Coffee Prices Rebound on Technical Short Covering
Coffee Prices Rise on Technical Short Covering
#prices #september #technical #soybeans
Monday's Crop Progress report from NASS showed 44% of the US soybean crop dropping leaves as of Sunday. Harvest was listed at 6% complete, ahead of the 3% average pace. Condition ratings were steady at 58% gd/ex, with the Brugler500 index unchanged at 353.
Cattle Bulls Are Back in Business as Futures Prices Rise
Coffee Prices Rebound on Technical Short Covering
Coffee Prices Rise on Technical Short Covering
#prices #september #technical #soybeans
2 hours ago
It's good when a stock forms a bullish chart pattern, and even better when institutional investors pour larger sums into buying those stocks. Three stocks offer that attractive combination: Travelers (TRV), AI stock Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), and housing play Welltower (WELL).
The three are in the IBD Stock Screener, specifically the Stocks That Funds Are Buying list. This screen uses IBD data to identify multimillion dollar trades on the upside, i.e., institutional demand.
After a summer rally, Travelers is pausing to form a flat base with a 398.69 buy point. Shares of the auto, home and business insurer had their best day of the year on July 17, when they jumped 9%. Lower catastrophe losses and higher net investment income made for a bullish second-quarter report. More than 4.3 million shares were traded that day, the third most so far this year.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average component has a 97 IBD Composite Rating. Its Earnings Per Share Rating of 99 is the highest in the insurance industry group. The Accumulation/Distribution Rating of C- shows a mix of buying and selling in the past few months. Longer term, the number of funds holding Travelers increased to 2,893 in the second quarter from 2,664 a year earlier, according to IBD MarketSurge.
The stock is up 30% year to date.
#year #rating #funds #bullish
The three are in the IBD Stock Screener, specifically the Stocks That Funds Are Buying list. This screen uses IBD data to identify multimillion dollar trades on the upside, i.e., institutional demand.
After a summer rally, Travelers is pausing to form a flat base with a 398.69 buy point. Shares of the auto, home and business insurer had their best day of the year on July 17, when they jumped 9%. Lower catastrophe losses and higher net investment income made for a bullish second-quarter report. More than 4.3 million shares were traded that day, the third most so far this year.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average component has a 97 IBD Composite Rating. Its Earnings Per Share Rating of 99 is the highest in the insurance industry group. The Accumulation/Distribution Rating of C- shows a mix of buying and selling in the past few months. Longer term, the number of funds holding Travelers increased to 2,893 in the second quarter from 2,664 a year earlier, according to IBD MarketSurge.
The stock is up 30% year to date.
#year #rating #funds #bullish
3 hours ago
Bitcoin faced this week's second major Washington catalyst on Sep. 16, with the Federal Reserve hiking the interest rates after the Senate failed to advance the CLARITY Act a day earlier.
The Federal Open Market Committee voted 12-0 to raise the federal funds target range by 25 basis points to 3.75%-4.00%, its first increase since 2023. The Fed said inflation "remains elevated" and that the move would support a timelier return to its 2% target.
The unanimous hike puts the central bank directly at odds with President Donald Trump, who has called for lower borrowing costs and said earlier this month that the U.S. "should be paying the lowest interest rate in the world."
The CLARITY Act, which would establish a federal market structure for digital **** ets and clarify oversight between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), failed to advance Tuesday in a 49-50 Senate cloture vote. It needed 60 votes to proceed.
The Fed decision matters for Bitcoin because higher interest rates increase yields on lower-risk **** ets and tighten financial conditions, typically creating a tougher environment for speculative **** ets.
#federal #clarity #commission #failed
The Federal Open Market Committee voted 12-0 to raise the federal funds target range by 25 basis points to 3.75%-4.00%, its first increase since 2023. The Fed said inflation "remains elevated" and that the move would support a timelier return to its 2% target.
The unanimous hike puts the central bank directly at odds with President Donald Trump, who has called for lower borrowing costs and said earlier this month that the U.S. "should be paying the lowest interest rate in the world."
The CLARITY Act, which would establish a federal market structure for digital **** ets and clarify oversight between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), failed to advance Tuesday in a 49-50 Senate cloture vote. It needed 60 votes to proceed.
The Fed decision matters for Bitcoin because higher interest rates increase yields on lower-risk **** ets and tighten financial conditions, typically creating a tougher environment for speculative **** ets.
#federal #clarity #commission #failed
6 hours ago
A commonly used drug has been linked to a higher risk of death in a new study.
The antibiotic, cefepime, which is used to treat bacterial infections like pneumonia, UTIs and skin infections, is typically administered via injection by healthcare providers in a clinical setting.
Severe side effects may include confusion, decreased consciousness or seizures, especially in older patients and those with kidney problems, among many other common symptoms, according to Mayo Clinic.
Older Adults Taking 5 Or More Prescription Drugs Face Higher Risk Of Death, Study Finds
New research suggests the medication may be ****** ociated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality.
#risk
The antibiotic, cefepime, which is used to treat bacterial infections like pneumonia, UTIs and skin infections, is typically administered via injection by healthcare providers in a clinical setting.
Severe side effects may include confusion, decreased consciousness or seizures, especially in older patients and those with kidney problems, among many other common symptoms, according to Mayo Clinic.
Older Adults Taking 5 Or More Prescription Drugs Face Higher Risk Of Death, Study Finds
New research suggests the medication may be ****** ociated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality.
#risk
6 hours ago
All eyes will be on the September Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting. Unless there is extraordinary news, like collapsing crude oil prices, I am fully expecting a key Fed interest rate hike.
The Fed never fights market rates. Since market rates have risen globally due to higher energy prices, and after the ECB hike, more central banks are expected to follow and raise key interest rates.
The big news is expected to be the FOMC statement that may signal whether or not the Fed is "one and done" or signal that more key interest rate hikes will be forthcoming. Under new Fed Chairman Warsh, the Fed may not provide good guidance, since Warsh wants Wall Street to take its cue from market rates.
Related: Louis Navellier is buying 3 headline-making stocks, including Google
The good news is that with a hike already baked into the cake, there shouldn't be a negative market reaction on September 16. In other words, don't fear the reaper because even if interest rates rise and market volatility increases, fundamentally superior stocks continue to outperform. Ahead of the meeting, however, I suspect the stock market will trade sideways.
#rates #warsh
The Fed never fights market rates. Since market rates have risen globally due to higher energy prices, and after the ECB hike, more central banks are expected to follow and raise key interest rates.
The big news is expected to be the FOMC statement that may signal whether or not the Fed is "one and done" or signal that more key interest rate hikes will be forthcoming. Under new Fed Chairman Warsh, the Fed may not provide good guidance, since Warsh wants Wall Street to take its cue from market rates.
Related: Louis Navellier is buying 3 headline-making stocks, including Google
The good news is that with a hike already baked into the cake, there shouldn't be a negative market reaction on September 16. In other words, don't fear the reaper because even if interest rates rise and market volatility increases, fundamentally superior stocks continue to outperform. Ahead of the meeting, however, I suspect the stock market will trade sideways.
#rates #warsh
7 hours ago
By Lucia Mutikani
WASHINGTON, Sept 16 (Reuters) - U.S. retail sales rebounded sharply in August as households boosted purchases of a range of goods while also spending more at restaurants and bars, reinforcing the economy's resilience even as consumers grow more anxious about high inflation.
The stronger-than-expected report from the Commerce Department on Wednesday prompted economists to upgrade their gross domestic product growth estimates for the third quarter. Together with other data on Wednesday showing a surge in import prices last month, strong demand sealed the argument for a widely anticipated interest rate increase from the Federal Reserve later in the day, economists said.
The reports followed data this month showing producer and consumer prices accelerated in August, while the labor market regained its poise after wobbling through much of summer.
"This reaffirms that the economy is more than capable of handling higher interest rates, providing the Fed plenty of scope to hike to get inflation under control," said Bradley Saunders, North America economist at Capital Economics.
#economists #data #month
WASHINGTON, Sept 16 (Reuters) - U.S. retail sales rebounded sharply in August as households boosted purchases of a range of goods while also spending more at restaurants and bars, reinforcing the economy's resilience even as consumers grow more anxious about high inflation.
The stronger-than-expected report from the Commerce Department on Wednesday prompted economists to upgrade their gross domestic product growth estimates for the third quarter. Together with other data on Wednesday showing a surge in import prices last month, strong demand sealed the argument for a widely anticipated interest rate increase from the Federal Reserve later in the day, economists said.
The reports followed data this month showing producer and consumer prices accelerated in August, while the labor market regained its poise after wobbling through much of summer.
"This reaffirms that the economy is more than capable of handling higher interest rates, providing the Fed plenty of scope to hike to get inflation under control," said Bradley Saunders, North America economist at Capital Economics.
#economists #data #month
7 hours ago
The Federal Reserve's September policy meeting kicked off Tuesday morning, and markets overwhelmingly expect the Fed to raise interest rates by 25 basis points on Wednesday amid persistently high inflation.
Such a move would mark the Fed's first increase in the fed funds rate since 2023, when the Jerome Powell-led central bank concluded its post-pandemic hiking campaign. However, inflation has now remained above the Fed's 2% target for more than five years, with the war in the Middle East serving as the latest driver of higher prices.
As Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh said in his Jackson Hole Symposium speech in August, "We have work to do."
Still, a hold isn't entirely off the table — even as traders price in a 92% chance of a Fed rate hike, according to CME Group's FedWatch tool. Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh has been adamant about not providing markets with forward guidance on interest rate decisions, preferring that officials have a "good family fight" over the data at FOMC meetings.
In addition to the intrigue over whether the Fed will hike rates, markets will closely scrutinize the Fed's Summary of Economic Projections, the so-called dot plot, for clues about monetary policy in the next few years.
#federal
Such a move would mark the Fed's first increase in the fed funds rate since 2023, when the Jerome Powell-led central bank concluded its post-pandemic hiking campaign. However, inflation has now remained above the Fed's 2% target for more than five years, with the war in the Middle East serving as the latest driver of higher prices.
As Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh said in his Jackson Hole Symposium speech in August, "We have work to do."
Still, a hold isn't entirely off the table — even as traders price in a 92% chance of a Fed rate hike, according to CME Group's FedWatch tool. Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh has been adamant about not providing markets with forward guidance on interest rate decisions, preferring that officials have a "good family fight" over the data at FOMC meetings.
In addition to the intrigue over whether the Fed will hike rates, markets will closely scrutinize the Fed's Summary of Economic Projections, the so-called dot plot, for clues about monetary policy in the next few years.
#federal
7 hours ago
On September 14, Radiant Logistics (NYSEAMERICAN:RLGT) held its fourth fiscal quarter earnings call, and the headline numbers landed harder than a typical logistics update. Net income jumped 53.1% to $7.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, while revenue climbed 18.5% to $261.4 million. Look past that one quarter, though, and the picture gets more complicated, because full-year adjusted profitability actually fell. That gap between a blowout quarter and a softer year is what makes this name worth a closer look.
The fourth fiscal quarter was strong from top to bottom. Adjusted EBITDA rose 31.6% to $10.4 million, margin expanded 240 basis points to 15.5%, and adjusted net income climbed 34.5% to $7.4 million, all against organic revenue growth of 8%. Management credited the acceleration to US forwarding operations and international airfreight, including work supporting disaster relief after typhoon activity hit the Western Pacific earlier this year, plus airfreight demand tied to capital flows into global data center buildouts.
The balance sheet backs up the story. Radiant enters fiscal 2027 with zero net debt, $25.6 million in cash as of June 30, and a $200 million senior credit facility that was extended and restated in August, pushing maturity out to August 7, 2031, while its acquisition-focused accordion grew to $100 million from $75 million. On the domestic side, capacity has been exiting the truckload and intermodal markets, and spot rates and tender rejections moved higher late in the quarter. Radiant also launched a new independent agent program at Radiant Road & Rail during the quarter, extending its freight forwarding agent network into truck brokerage and intermodal, while Navegate is gaining traction, with one enterprise customer now managing more than 1,400 vendors on the platform.
The full-year numbers tell a different story than the quarter does. Revenue rose just 3.5% to $934.4 million from $902.7 million, a fraction of the fourth quarter's 18.5% pace, and full-year net income grew a modest 8.7% to $18.8 million. Full-year adjusted EBITDA actually fell 5.4% to $36.7 million from $38.8 million, and that figure included a $1.3 million First Brands adjustment. Strip that out and normalized adjusted EBITDA comes in at $35.4 million, an even steeper decline than the headline number suggests.
The operating backdrop stays complicated too. Ocean shipping routes remain disrupted by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and continued Houthi activity affecting Suez Canal transits, keeping capacity tight on key trade lanes. US tariff policy is generating elevated IEEPA-related filing activity, and Canada put new retaliatory tariff measures into effect in early September, adding fresh complexity for shippers moving goods across that border. Management itself acknowledged that the domestic truck brokerage improvement seen late in the fourth quarter is not yet fully reflected in the reported results.
#million #quarter #revenue #fiscal
The fourth fiscal quarter was strong from top to bottom. Adjusted EBITDA rose 31.6% to $10.4 million, margin expanded 240 basis points to 15.5%, and adjusted net income climbed 34.5% to $7.4 million, all against organic revenue growth of 8%. Management credited the acceleration to US forwarding operations and international airfreight, including work supporting disaster relief after typhoon activity hit the Western Pacific earlier this year, plus airfreight demand tied to capital flows into global data center buildouts.
The balance sheet backs up the story. Radiant enters fiscal 2027 with zero net debt, $25.6 million in cash as of June 30, and a $200 million senior credit facility that was extended and restated in August, pushing maturity out to August 7, 2031, while its acquisition-focused accordion grew to $100 million from $75 million. On the domestic side, capacity has been exiting the truckload and intermodal markets, and spot rates and tender rejections moved higher late in the quarter. Radiant also launched a new independent agent program at Radiant Road & Rail during the quarter, extending its freight forwarding agent network into truck brokerage and intermodal, while Navegate is gaining traction, with one enterprise customer now managing more than 1,400 vendors on the platform.
The full-year numbers tell a different story than the quarter does. Revenue rose just 3.5% to $934.4 million from $902.7 million, a fraction of the fourth quarter's 18.5% pace, and full-year net income grew a modest 8.7% to $18.8 million. Full-year adjusted EBITDA actually fell 5.4% to $36.7 million from $38.8 million, and that figure included a $1.3 million First Brands adjustment. Strip that out and normalized adjusted EBITDA comes in at $35.4 million, an even steeper decline than the headline number suggests.
The operating backdrop stays complicated too. Ocean shipping routes remain disrupted by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and continued Houthi activity affecting Suez Canal transits, keeping capacity tight on key trade lanes. US tariff policy is generating elevated IEEPA-related filing activity, and Canada put new retaliatory tariff measures into effect in early September, adding fresh complexity for shippers moving goods across that border. Management itself acknowledged that the domestic truck brokerage improvement seen late in the fourth quarter is not yet fully reflected in the reported results.
#million #quarter #revenue #fiscal
7 hours ago
Choosing between Advance Auto Parts (NYSE:AAP) and Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ:LUNR) requires balancing the steady but challenged automotive retail sector against the high-stakes, high-growth arena of ******* e infrastructure.
Advance Auto Parts operates as a massive retailer for vehicle maintenance, while Intuitive Machines focuses on lunar landers and orbital services. These two businesses represent very different risk-to-reward profiles for 2026 portfolios.
Advance Auto Parts operates as an automotive aftermarket parts retailer, serving both everyday do-it-yourselfers and professional installers like garages or dealerships. In its latest annual report, filed for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2026, the company noted it operates over 4,000 stores across North America. As an established player among retail stocks, its strategy relies on balancing these two customer bases, with professional sales accounting for nearly 50% of its total revenue.
In FY 2025, revenue reached $8.6 billion, representing a revenue decline of roughly 5.4% compared to the previous year. Despite this decline, the company reported a net income of $44.0 million. This resulted in a thin net margin, a measure of how much profit a company keeps from its total sales, of about 0.5%.
As of its January 2026 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was 2.4x. This ratio measures total debt against shareholder equity, with a higher number suggesting more reliance on borrowing. The so-called current ratio, which tracks the ability to pay short-term debts with short-term ******* ets, was 1.7x. Free cash flow, defined as cash from operations minus capital expenditures, was negative $298.0 million for the year.
#parts #operates #total #ratio
Advance Auto Parts operates as a massive retailer for vehicle maintenance, while Intuitive Machines focuses on lunar landers and orbital services. These two businesses represent very different risk-to-reward profiles for 2026 portfolios.
Advance Auto Parts operates as an automotive aftermarket parts retailer, serving both everyday do-it-yourselfers and professional installers like garages or dealerships. In its latest annual report, filed for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2026, the company noted it operates over 4,000 stores across North America. As an established player among retail stocks, its strategy relies on balancing these two customer bases, with professional sales accounting for nearly 50% of its total revenue.
In FY 2025, revenue reached $8.6 billion, representing a revenue decline of roughly 5.4% compared to the previous year. Despite this decline, the company reported a net income of $44.0 million. This resulted in a thin net margin, a measure of how much profit a company keeps from its total sales, of about 0.5%.
As of its January 2026 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was 2.4x. This ratio measures total debt against shareholder equity, with a higher number suggesting more reliance on borrowing. The so-called current ratio, which tracks the ability to pay short-term debts with short-term ******* ets, was 1.7x. Free cash flow, defined as cash from operations minus capital expenditures, was negative $298.0 million for the year.
#parts #operates #total #ratio
8 hours ago
Cipher Digital (NASDAQ: CIFR) stock is roaring higher on Wednesday. The company's share price was up 13.9% as of 10:35 a.m. ET. At the same point in the daily session, the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite were up 0.2% and 0.6%, respectively.
After recent sell-offs driven by concerns about the potential for increased regulation in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry, stocks in the category are seeing some rebound trading in today's session. In addition to that bullish catalyst, Cipher Digital stock is getting a big boost from news connected to its Texas data center projects.
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 »
The potential for AI to create dangerous outcomes has been a center-stage news item and point of political discussion recently, and increased focus on the topic has powered some valuation pullbacks for artificial intelligence companies. Calls for increased regulation of the AI industry have caused concerns among investors that growth in the category could be impeded, but stocks in the ******* e are broadly seeing some rebound momentum in today's trading.
Before the market opened this morning, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) published an update through its Batch Zero evaluation framework indicating grid capacity of up to 3.2 gigawatts for Cipher's data centers in the state. The update bodes well for the scaling of the company's AI compute business, and investors are bidding up the stock today in response.
#NVIDIA #Stock #increased #flashing
After recent sell-offs driven by concerns about the potential for increased regulation in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry, stocks in the category are seeing some rebound trading in today's session. In addition to that bullish catalyst, Cipher Digital stock is getting a big boost from news connected to its Texas data center projects.
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 »
The potential for AI to create dangerous outcomes has been a center-stage news item and point of political discussion recently, and increased focus on the topic has powered some valuation pullbacks for artificial intelligence companies. Calls for increased regulation of the AI industry have caused concerns among investors that growth in the category could be impeded, but stocks in the ******* e are broadly seeing some rebound momentum in today's trading.
Before the market opened this morning, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) published an update through its Batch Zero evaluation framework indicating grid capacity of up to 3.2 gigawatts for Cipher's data centers in the state. The update bodes well for the scaling of the company's AI compute business, and investors are bidding up the stock today in response.
#NVIDIA #Stock #increased #flashing
8 hours ago
On September 14, Dave & Buster's Entertainment (NASDAQ:PLAY) reported second-quarter fiscal 2026 results that read like two different companies at once. Revenue fell, and the company posted a net loss for the period ended August 4, yet comparable sales, which had been sliding for more than a year, kept getting less bad every month from June through the first five weeks of the third quarter. New CEO Darin Harper is betting that improvement compounds into something bigger.
The clearest evidence is the trend line itself. Comparable store sales fell 5.4% in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, then 2.9% in the second quarter, then just 1.6% in July after a 5% decline in June, and Harper said trends improved further over the first five weeks of the third quarter. Food and beverage sales are moving in the opposite direction entirely, up 7.6% in the quarter and positive for five straight quarters, helped by the Eat & Play Combo, a bundled meal and game credit offer sold through kiosks. Special event sales have now grown for seven consecutive quarters.
Behind that shift sits a rebuilt leadership bench. Dave & Buster's went more than a year without a chief marketing officer, and Harper has since added a CMO, a chief operations officer, a chief technology officer, and a chief legal officer since taking over. The company also leaned on new content, launching 10 games and attractions this year, including tie-ins with Mandalorian and Grogu, John Wick and Stranger Things, after research found more than 70% of guests said new games would bring them back more often. Changes to game pricing pushed play and dwell time up 16% to 20% or more. Six remodeled stores are already outperforming the rest of the chain, and management says the newest remodel template costs less to build than the last one. Net capital spending dropped to $127.6 million through the first half of the year from $155.4 million, and adjusted free cash flow swung to positive $19.5 million from negative $36.5 million, a $56 million improvement.
The headline figures were still rough. Total revenue slipped 2.4% to $544.1 million from $557.4 million a year earlier, and adjusted EBITDA dropped to $98.9 million, an 18.2% margin, from $129.8 million and a 23.3% margin. On a GAAP basis, the company posted a net loss of $12.5 million, or $0.36 per diluted share, versus net income of $11.4 million in the same quarter last year. About $15 million of the EBITDA decline came from items management calls non-normalized, including a $10 million noncash deferral adjustment that did not repeat this year, $3 million in extra preopening costs and $2 million in higher insurance expenses, but even stripped of those, the underlying decline was still roughly $16 million.
#quarter #sales
The clearest evidence is the trend line itself. Comparable store sales fell 5.4% in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, then 2.9% in the second quarter, then just 1.6% in July after a 5% decline in June, and Harper said trends improved further over the first five weeks of the third quarter. Food and beverage sales are moving in the opposite direction entirely, up 7.6% in the quarter and positive for five straight quarters, helped by the Eat & Play Combo, a bundled meal and game credit offer sold through kiosks. Special event sales have now grown for seven consecutive quarters.
Behind that shift sits a rebuilt leadership bench. Dave & Buster's went more than a year without a chief marketing officer, and Harper has since added a CMO, a chief operations officer, a chief technology officer, and a chief legal officer since taking over. The company also leaned on new content, launching 10 games and attractions this year, including tie-ins with Mandalorian and Grogu, John Wick and Stranger Things, after research found more than 70% of guests said new games would bring them back more often. Changes to game pricing pushed play and dwell time up 16% to 20% or more. Six remodeled stores are already outperforming the rest of the chain, and management says the newest remodel template costs less to build than the last one. Net capital spending dropped to $127.6 million through the first half of the year from $155.4 million, and adjusted free cash flow swung to positive $19.5 million from negative $36.5 million, a $56 million improvement.
The headline figures were still rough. Total revenue slipped 2.4% to $544.1 million from $557.4 million a year earlier, and adjusted EBITDA dropped to $98.9 million, an 18.2% margin, from $129.8 million and a 23.3% margin. On a GAAP basis, the company posted a net loss of $12.5 million, or $0.36 per diluted share, versus net income of $11.4 million in the same quarter last year. About $15 million of the EBITDA decline came from items management calls non-normalized, including a $10 million noncash deferral adjustment that did not repeat this year, $3 million in extra preopening costs and $2 million in higher insurance expenses, but even stripped of those, the underlying decline was still roughly $16 million.
#quarter #sales
8 hours ago
On September 14, American Battery Technology Company (NASDAQ:ABAT) held its fiscal year 2026 earnings call, and for once the numbers matched the ambition. Revenue at its flagship recycling facility jumped more than 400% to $21.7 million, and the company posted its first-ever adjusted gross profit. But on the same call, CEO Ryan Melsert disclosed a federal directive that could choke off exports of one of the plant's key products, black mass, a reminder that ABAT's fortunes are still tied tightly to Washington.
Revenue jumped over 400% year over year to $21.7 million, fueled by higher throughput at the company's first recycling facility and increased sales of byproducts. Cost of goods sold rose only 67% over the same stretch, evidence that fixed costs are spreading across a much bigger volume of material. Even more telling, operating cash spend actually fell 16% even as throughput at the plant more than quadrupled. That combination pushed American Battery Technology to an adjusted gross profit of $1.7 million, a sharp turnaround from the $6.2 million loss it posted a year earlier.
The balance sheet tells a similar story. Cash climbed to $49.5 million as of June 30, 2026, and total ***** ets reached $133 million, up sharply from the prior year. The company also erased all of its long-term debt during the year, leaving it with a clean balance sheet heading into a period of heavy capital spending.
Growth plans are already in motion. A second recycling facility planned for the Southeast U.S., designed to process 100,000 tons of batteries a year, is backed by a $150 million grant from the Department of Energy, and a separate $10 million DOE grant is funding three next-generation recycling technologies. On the mining side, the Bureau of Land Management certified the company's plan of operations for its Tonopah lithium project in Nevada, home to an identified 21.3 million tons of lithium hydroxide, including 2.7 million tons of proven and probable reserves. The project also won a FAST-41 priority designation, intended to speed up federal permitting.
The clearest risk surfaced on the call itself. The US Department of Commerce issued a directive that effectively bans the export of black mass, the concentrated metal byproduct of battery recycling, unless a company obtains a specific exception. American Battery Technology has submitted a request for that exception, but as of the call, Commerce had not issued a formal response, and the company is storing black mass at its facility in the meantime.
#company #recycling #black
Revenue jumped over 400% year over year to $21.7 million, fueled by higher throughput at the company's first recycling facility and increased sales of byproducts. Cost of goods sold rose only 67% over the same stretch, evidence that fixed costs are spreading across a much bigger volume of material. Even more telling, operating cash spend actually fell 16% even as throughput at the plant more than quadrupled. That combination pushed American Battery Technology to an adjusted gross profit of $1.7 million, a sharp turnaround from the $6.2 million loss it posted a year earlier.
The balance sheet tells a similar story. Cash climbed to $49.5 million as of June 30, 2026, and total ***** ets reached $133 million, up sharply from the prior year. The company also erased all of its long-term debt during the year, leaving it with a clean balance sheet heading into a period of heavy capital spending.
Growth plans are already in motion. A second recycling facility planned for the Southeast U.S., designed to process 100,000 tons of batteries a year, is backed by a $150 million grant from the Department of Energy, and a separate $10 million DOE grant is funding three next-generation recycling technologies. On the mining side, the Bureau of Land Management certified the company's plan of operations for its Tonopah lithium project in Nevada, home to an identified 21.3 million tons of lithium hydroxide, including 2.7 million tons of proven and probable reserves. The project also won a FAST-41 priority designation, intended to speed up federal permitting.
The clearest risk surfaced on the call itself. The US Department of Commerce issued a directive that effectively bans the export of black mass, the concentrated metal byproduct of battery recycling, unless a company obtains a specific exception. American Battery Technology has submitted a request for that exception, but as of the call, Commerce had not issued a formal response, and the company is storing black mass at its facility in the meantime.
#company #recycling #black
8 hours ago
Parnassus Investments, an investment management company, released the "Parnassus Growth Equity Fund" second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. During the quarter, the Fund (Investor Shares) returned 17.49% (net of fees), outperforming the Russell 1000 Growth Index's 16.74%. Holdings in Information Technology and Consumer Discretionary sectors boosted relative returns, while Communication Services and Financials holdings detracted. For the year-to-date period, the Fund returned 6.17% (net of fees), outperforming the Russell 1000 Growth's 5.33%. The firm remains constructively bullish on U.S. equities and continues to be selective, valuation-sensitive, and focused on disruptive growth opportunities through active stock selection. Growth stocks advanced during the second quarter, as the Russell 1000 Growth Index generated strong double-digit returns driven by increased confidence in the durability of the ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure build-out. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Parnassus Growth Equity Fund highlighted Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN). Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) manufactures med-surg products serving hospitals, surgery centers, physician offices, post-acute facilities, and nursing home sites of care. On September 15, 2026, Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) closed at $36.59 per share. Over the past month, Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) declined 4.23%, and YTD its shares lost 22.68%. Medline Inc. has a market capitalization of $42.22 billion.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) shares declined as medical technology stocks broadly came under pressure. The company also faced near term concerns surrounding tariffs and higher transportation costs, though we remain confident in its long-term competitive positioning."
Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 52 hedge fund portfolios held Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) at the end of the second quarter which was 65 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) 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.
#medline #fund
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Parnassus Growth Equity Fund highlighted Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN). Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) manufactures med-surg products serving hospitals, surgery centers, physician offices, post-acute facilities, and nursing home sites of care. On September 15, 2026, Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) closed at $36.59 per share. Over the past month, Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) declined 4.23%, and YTD its shares lost 22.68%. Medline Inc. has a market capitalization of $42.22 billion.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) shares declined as medical technology stocks broadly came under pressure. The company also faced near term concerns surrounding tariffs and higher transportation costs, though we remain confident in its long-term competitive positioning."
Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 52 hedge fund portfolios held Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) at the end of the second quarter which was 65 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Medline Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLN) 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.
#medline #fund
9 hours ago
Parnassus Investments, an investment management company, released the "Parnassus Growth Equity Fund" second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. During the quarter, the Fund (Investor Shares) returned 17.49% (net of fees), outperforming the Russell 1000 Growth Index's 16.74%. Holdings in Information Technology and Consumer Discretionary sectors boosted relative returns, while Communication Services and Financials holdings detracted. For the year-to-date period, the Fund returned 6.17% (net of fees), outperforming the Russell 1000 Growth's 5.33%. The firm remains constructively bullish on U.S. equities and continues to be selective, valuation-sensitive, and focused on disruptive growth opportunities through active stock selection. Growth stocks advanced during the second quarter, as the Russell 1000 Growth Index generated strong double-digit returns driven by increased confidence in the durability of the ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure build-out. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Parnassus Growth Equity Fund highlighted Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) as a new addition. Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) is a leading biotechnology company specializing in the manufacture and sale of synthetic DNA-based products. On September 15, 2026, Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) closed at $138.10 per share. Over the past month, Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) returned 2.97% while its shares gained 443.64% over the past 52 weeks. Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) has a market capitalization of $9.09 billion and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $23.30 and $155.44.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"During the quarter, we added Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST), a biotechnology company with a proprietary silicon-based DNA synthesis platform. Twist Bioscience provides exposure to two powerful long-term trends in Health Care, AI-supported drug discovery and next-generation sequencing. The company's proprietary silicon-based DNA synthesis platform enables higher throughput and lower costs than traditional methods, creating a durable competitive advantage and positioning Twist to take share in a growing market."
Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 42 hedge fund portfolios held Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) at the end of the second quarter which was 30 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) 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
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Parnassus Growth Equity Fund highlighted Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) as a new addition. Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) is a leading biotechnology company specializing in the manufacture and sale of synthetic DNA-based products. On September 15, 2026, Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) closed at $138.10 per share. Over the past month, Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) returned 2.97% while its shares gained 443.64% over the past 52 weeks. Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) has a market capitalization of $9.09 billion and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $23.30 and $155.44.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"During the quarter, we added Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST), a biotechnology company with a proprietary silicon-based DNA synthesis platform. Twist Bioscience provides exposure to two powerful long-term trends in Health Care, AI-supported drug discovery and next-generation sequencing. The company's proprietary silicon-based DNA synthesis platform enables higher throughput and lower costs than traditional methods, creating a durable competitive advantage and positioning Twist to take share in a growing market."
Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 42 hedge fund portfolios held Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) at the end of the second quarter which was 30 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ:TWST) 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
