1 day ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — Sipping tea from beer mugs with his coworkers, Kyle Bos listed the ways his life is changing.
Bos has two daughters, with a third due in January. At the grocery store, five items cost as much as a full cart once did. And on Wednesday, Bos and nearly 1,400 other people were laid off from their jobs at what had been the Navistar truck factory in southwestern Ohio.
The layoffs — occurring just three days before Donald Trump's rally on Saturday at a nearby high school — were large enough to basically erase an entire year of job growth in the greater Dayton, Ohio area. And they are one reason why Bos, 30, plans to spend the final weeks before the November election canvassing votes for Democrats.
Asked how many times he voted for Trump, Bos held up three tattooed fingers. But he said he's done with the president.
"Something has to change politically in this country," said Bos, a member of the United Auto Workers who identifies as a centrist.
#kyle #wednesday
Bos has two daughters, with a third due in January. At the grocery store, five items cost as much as a full cart once did. And on Wednesday, Bos and nearly 1,400 other people were laid off from their jobs at what had been the Navistar truck factory in southwestern Ohio.
The layoffs — occurring just three days before Donald Trump's rally on Saturday at a nearby high school — were large enough to basically erase an entire year of job growth in the greater Dayton, Ohio area. And they are one reason why Bos, 30, plans to spend the final weeks before the November election canvassing votes for Democrats.
Asked how many times he voted for Trump, Bos held up three tattooed fingers. But he said he's done with the president.
"Something has to change politically in this country," said Bos, a member of the United Auto Workers who identifies as a centrist.
#kyle #wednesday
2 days ago
Kay Dudley tells POEPLE her mother's lupus experience helped her advocate for her own diagnosis after years of being dismissed
The content creator and husband, Tay Dudley, raises awareness through Lupus Foundation of America events and campaigns
Kay relies on pacing herself and accepting Tay's support while parenting their three daughters
Internet personality Kay Dudley has been incredibly open about what life has looked like while navigating her lupus diagnosis.
Speaking with PEOPLE, Kay, who boasts over 18 million followers across the Instagram and TikTok pages she shares with her husband, Tay Dudley, touches on one of the more specific side effects that she has dealt with as a result of learning to navigate the diagnosis — specifically how it shapes the way she shows up for her three daughters daily.
The pair has made it part of their mission online to spread awareness of the disease, a chronic autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation and pain throughout the body. The two frequently partner with the Lupus Foundation of America to help support the organization by promoting donations and leading walks, including this weekend's Walk to End Lupus Now in New York City, which will take place on Oct. 3.
Kay Dudley.
Credit: Bails Shoots
#foundation
The content creator and husband, Tay Dudley, raises awareness through Lupus Foundation of America events and campaigns
Kay relies on pacing herself and accepting Tay's support while parenting their three daughters
Internet personality Kay Dudley has been incredibly open about what life has looked like while navigating her lupus diagnosis.
Speaking with PEOPLE, Kay, who boasts over 18 million followers across the Instagram and TikTok pages she shares with her husband, Tay Dudley, touches on one of the more specific side effects that she has dealt with as a result of learning to navigate the diagnosis — specifically how it shapes the way she shows up for her three daughters daily.
The pair has made it part of their mission online to spread awareness of the disease, a chronic autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation and pain throughout the body. The two frequently partner with the Lupus Foundation of America to help support the organization by promoting donations and leading walks, including this weekend's Walk to End Lupus Now in New York City, which will take place on Oct. 3.
Kay Dudley.
Credit: Bails Shoots
#foundation
3 days ago
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been given a simple piece of advice as their family adjusts to life in the UK. Relationship expert Georgina Vass suggested that the couple focus on "honest communication." This comes as the couple helps their children navigate the major transition.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle returned to the UK with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after leaving the country back in 2020. The family is now believed to be living in the Cotswolds after relocating from California.
Speaking to "Gloucestershire Live", relationship expert Georgina Vass said the couple could help their children adapt by "modelling adaptation through honest communication about the hurdles, complicated feelings, and exciting opportunities." The expert also suggested creating consistent routines around school, meals, bedtime, and weekends. According to Vass, familiar routines could help reduce feelings of disruption while the children settle into their new surroundings.
Her advice also focused on Harry and Meghan's relationship. She said staying emotionally connected during disagreements and sharing disappointments could help couples develop stronger trust and mutual support. She added, "Relationships strengthened by adversity can develop greater resilience, honesty, and confidence in their ability to survive difficulty together as a team."
The move has also brought changes to Archie and Lilibet's education. The Sussexes' kids were initially registered at a British school in September. However, reports claimed the children later switched schools because of security and logistical concerns surrounding the route to that specific school. The school has not been publicly identified for safeguarding reasons. Reports suggested heavy traffic during rush hour had significantly increased the journey time, creating additional concerns around security.
#children #prince #expert
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle returned to the UK with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after leaving the country back in 2020. The family is now believed to be living in the Cotswolds after relocating from California.
Speaking to "Gloucestershire Live", relationship expert Georgina Vass said the couple could help their children adapt by "modelling adaptation through honest communication about the hurdles, complicated feelings, and exciting opportunities." The expert also suggested creating consistent routines around school, meals, bedtime, and weekends. According to Vass, familiar routines could help reduce feelings of disruption while the children settle into their new surroundings.
Her advice also focused on Harry and Meghan's relationship. She said staying emotionally connected during disagreements and sharing disappointments could help couples develop stronger trust and mutual support. She added, "Relationships strengthened by adversity can develop greater resilience, honesty, and confidence in their ability to survive difficulty together as a team."
The move has also brought changes to Archie and Lilibet's education. The Sussexes' kids were initially registered at a British school in September. However, reports claimed the children later switched schools because of security and logistical concerns surrounding the route to that specific school. The school has not been publicly identified for safeguarding reasons. Reports suggested heavy traffic during rush hour had significantly increased the journey time, creating additional concerns around security.
#children #prince #expert
3 days ago
Originally appeared on E! Online
Gypsy Rose Blanchard is navigating a death in her family.
The Life After Lock Up star's boyfriend Ken Urker died on Oct. 1, the Lafourche Sherriff's Office confirmed to E! News. He was 33.
"We were notified about this at 6:15 p.m. CDT and responded," a spokesperson told E!. "He was found dead upon arrival. At this time, we are continuing the death investigation."
His cause of death has not been revealed.
#death #blanchard
Gypsy Rose Blanchard is navigating a death in her family.
The Life After Lock Up star's boyfriend Ken Urker died on Oct. 1, the Lafourche Sherriff's Office confirmed to E! News. He was 33.
"We were notified about this at 6:15 p.m. CDT and responded," a spokesperson told E!. "He was found dead upon arrival. At this time, we are continuing the death investigation."
His cause of death has not been revealed.
#death #blanchard
3 days ago
"Braxton Family Values" star Trina Braxton's husband, Von Scales, has died at the age of 58.
A representative for the singer, 51, confirmed the news in a statement to TMZ on Thursday, Oct. 1. An official cause of death has not been released.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Von Scales, beloved husband of Trina Braxton," the statement read. "The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers but is asking for privacy at this time as they navigate this unfortunate event."
USA TODAY reached out to Trina Braxton's representative for comment.
Braxton and Scales met through mutual friends and tied the knot in 2019. Their relationship – and the wedding – was documented on her family's reality shows, "Braxton Family Values" and "The Braxtons."
#braxton #trina #family #thursday
A representative for the singer, 51, confirmed the news in a statement to TMZ on Thursday, Oct. 1. An official cause of death has not been released.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Von Scales, beloved husband of Trina Braxton," the statement read. "The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers but is asking for privacy at this time as they navigate this unfortunate event."
USA TODAY reached out to Trina Braxton's representative for comment.
Braxton and Scales met through mutual friends and tied the knot in 2019. Their relationship – and the wedding – was documented on her family's reality shows, "Braxton Family Values" and "The Braxtons."
#braxton #trina #family #thursday
15 days ago
Credit card companies are racing to claim a place at the checkout when AI agents start shopping on behalf of consumers—even as shoppers remain skeptical of letting bots spend their money.
Mastercard rolled out a payment option Thursday that lets people give an AI agent a virtual card and allow it to buy things online without checking in before each purchase. Cardholders can limit how much it spends, restrict which retailers it buys from, or require approval before checkout.
"This is a land grab for infrastructure standards," Phil Bruno, chief strategy and growth officer at payments company ACI Worldwide, told Fortune. "If they set the standards for agentic commerce, they can keep the commerce in their environments for decades to come."
Rival Visa partnered with Alchemy earlier this year and has also announced its own AI shopping and payment product, Visa Intelligent Commerce, which the company says is still being deployed. Similarly, Meta has Muse, which can search for products and navigate checkout, but presents the purchase for the user's final approval.
It seems, though, that shoppers appear far more interested in using AI to find a deal than letting it pay. Just 7% of U.S. and U.K. consumers surveyed who buy fashion items said they would allow an AI ***** istant to make purchases without approval under predefined conditions, according to research commissioned by ACI Worldwide. More than half said they were uncomfortable allowing AI to purchase on their behalf.
#purchase #consumers
Mastercard rolled out a payment option Thursday that lets people give an AI agent a virtual card and allow it to buy things online without checking in before each purchase. Cardholders can limit how much it spends, restrict which retailers it buys from, or require approval before checkout.
"This is a land grab for infrastructure standards," Phil Bruno, chief strategy and growth officer at payments company ACI Worldwide, told Fortune. "If they set the standards for agentic commerce, they can keep the commerce in their environments for decades to come."
Rival Visa partnered with Alchemy earlier this year and has also announced its own AI shopping and payment product, Visa Intelligent Commerce, which the company says is still being deployed. Similarly, Meta has Muse, which can search for products and navigate checkout, but presents the purchase for the user's final approval.
It seems, though, that shoppers appear far more interested in using AI to find a deal than letting it pay. Just 7% of U.S. and U.K. consumers surveyed who buy fashion items said they would allow an AI ***** istant to make purchases without approval under predefined conditions, according to research commissioned by ACI Worldwide. More than half said they were uncomfortable allowing AI to purchase on their behalf.
#purchase #consumers
16 days ago
AGNC Investment (NASDAQ: AGNC) completed its IPO in May 2008 at $20 per share. Today, shares of the mortgage REIT trade at around $10 per share, a staggering 50% below their IPO price.
However, the company's monthly dividends have more than offset the slump in its share price. AGNC has paid out over $50 per share in ****** ulative dividends since its IPO, more than double its IPO price. With dividends reinvested, it has significantly outperformed mortgage REITs and other financial stocks since its IPO.
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 »
AGNC Investment's founders formed it in the depths of the financial crisis, seeing an opportunity to create a leading Agency MBS (mortgage-backed securities guaranteed against credit losses by government agencies like Fannie Mae). It invests in Agency MBS on a leveraged basis, primarily through repurchase agreements, and uses dynamic risk management strategies to navigate market risks, including interest rate changes.
The company has had to maneuver around several market cycles, unexpected events, and market volatility over the years, which have weighed on its investment returns and earnings. AGNC Investment has still managed to significantly expand its Agency MBS portfolio (it reached $97.2 billion at the end of the second quarter), financed primarily by selling stock. As a result, its shares outstanding have risen a staggering 7,660% since its IPO. This combination of earnings volatility and dilution is why its share prices have fallen 50% since the IPO.
#since #agency #dividends
However, the company's monthly dividends have more than offset the slump in its share price. AGNC has paid out over $50 per share in ****** ulative dividends since its IPO, more than double its IPO price. With dividends reinvested, it has significantly outperformed mortgage REITs and other financial stocks since its IPO.
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 »
AGNC Investment's founders formed it in the depths of the financial crisis, seeing an opportunity to create a leading Agency MBS (mortgage-backed securities guaranteed against credit losses by government agencies like Fannie Mae). It invests in Agency MBS on a leveraged basis, primarily through repurchase agreements, and uses dynamic risk management strategies to navigate market risks, including interest rate changes.
The company has had to maneuver around several market cycles, unexpected events, and market volatility over the years, which have weighed on its investment returns and earnings. AGNC Investment has still managed to significantly expand its Agency MBS portfolio (it reached $97.2 billion at the end of the second quarter), financed primarily by selling stock. As a result, its shares outstanding have risen a staggering 7,660% since its IPO. This combination of earnings volatility and dilution is why its share prices have fallen 50% since the IPO.
#since #agency #dividends
16 days ago
This story was originally published on Supply Chain Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Supply Chain Dive newsletter.
TJX Companies is confident in navigating weather-related events such as El Niño due to its warehouse distribution model, CEO Ernie Herrman said in a Q2 earnings call on Aug. 19.
Herrman said since the company keeps its liquidity and shipping out of its warehouses, it has better control than traditional retailers. Inventory doesn't need to go straight to the stores if the off-price retailer thinks there's going to be an unusual weather pattern in a certain region, he added.
"[T]his is a benefit of our model where we stage goods in our warehouses versus goods at most brick-and-mortar retailers come into the warehouse and have to go out," Herrman told **** ysts. He added that the company's "planning organization is really good at reacting to any wild swings in weather or natural disasters or any of those red flags."
Off-price retailers and classic retailers tend to have different supply chain models when it comes to how they manage their inventory, but it's not one-size fits all, Dheera Anand, a partner at Bain and Co., told Supply Chain Dive in an interview. The supply chain strategy Hermann described in TJX's earnings call is known as the hold and flow, or staged, model, Anand said.
#supply
TJX Companies is confident in navigating weather-related events such as El Niño due to its warehouse distribution model, CEO Ernie Herrman said in a Q2 earnings call on Aug. 19.
Herrman said since the company keeps its liquidity and shipping out of its warehouses, it has better control than traditional retailers. Inventory doesn't need to go straight to the stores if the off-price retailer thinks there's going to be an unusual weather pattern in a certain region, he added.
"[T]his is a benefit of our model where we stage goods in our warehouses versus goods at most brick-and-mortar retailers come into the warehouse and have to go out," Herrman told **** ysts. He added that the company's "planning organization is really good at reacting to any wild swings in weather or natural disasters or any of those red flags."
Off-price retailers and classic retailers tend to have different supply chain models when it comes to how they manage their inventory, but it's not one-size fits all, Dheera Anand, a partner at Bain and Co., told Supply Chain Dive in an interview. The supply chain strategy Hermann described in TJX's earnings call is known as the hold and flow, or staged, model, Anand said.
#supply
16 days ago
During market uncertainty, cautious investors may feel compelled to sell everything while they wait for the dust to settle. But Ross Gerber believes that, to paraphrase Rudyard Kipling, if you can keep your head when everyone else is losing theirs, you'll reap even bigger rewards.
The Gerber Kawasaki CEO says that while inflation, higher bond yields, oil prices, and Federal Reserve rate hikes can pressure stocks, he does not think investors should abandon equities wholesale. Instead, he advocates for a more defensive approach.
He recommends investors trim holdings with valuations that look stretched relative to their growth, build reserves in cash and short-duration fixed income **** ets, and keep long-term positions in companies that he believes still have strong earnings support, such as Nvidia.
And for investors trying to navigate an environment where corporate earnings remain strong while macroeconomic risks pressure stock valuations, that distinction matters. Gerber's framework is less about calling the market's next move than deciding which risks a portfolio can absorb—and which positions still deserve capital.
Here is a closer look at Gerber's defensive-focused strategy.
#gerber #pressure #still
The Gerber Kawasaki CEO says that while inflation, higher bond yields, oil prices, and Federal Reserve rate hikes can pressure stocks, he does not think investors should abandon equities wholesale. Instead, he advocates for a more defensive approach.
He recommends investors trim holdings with valuations that look stretched relative to their growth, build reserves in cash and short-duration fixed income **** ets, and keep long-term positions in companies that he believes still have strong earnings support, such as Nvidia.
And for investors trying to navigate an environment where corporate earnings remain strong while macroeconomic risks pressure stock valuations, that distinction matters. Gerber's framework is less about calling the market's next move than deciding which risks a portfolio can absorb—and which positions still deserve capital.
Here is a closer look at Gerber's defensive-focused strategy.
#gerber #pressure #still
17 days ago
At the Cascale annual meeting in Athens on Wednesday, Asif Khan, executive director of supply chain and sustainability at Mondetta, acknowledged the central conflict undercutting fashion's green ambitions: while sustainability demands a long-term sourcing strategy, brands rely entirely on the ability to pivot at a moment's notice.
It's a commercial reality that constrains companies such as his, Khan admitted. Navigating a volatile environment shaped by fast-changing consumer demands, evolving trends and geopolitical instability, brands are unable to offer the multi-year purchasing guarantees that factories need to justify significant capital investments, he said.
More from WWD
Cascale Wants to Put the 'Collective' Back in Collective Action
As Fashion's Emissions Rise for Second Straight Year, Aii Knows What Needs to Change
#Sustainability #asif
It's a commercial reality that constrains companies such as his, Khan admitted. Navigating a volatile environment shaped by fast-changing consumer demands, evolving trends and geopolitical instability, brands are unable to offer the multi-year purchasing guarantees that factories need to justify significant capital investments, he said.
More from WWD
Cascale Wants to Put the 'Collective' Back in Collective Action
As Fashion's Emissions Rise for Second Straight Year, Aii Knows What Needs to Change
#Sustainability #asif
17 days 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 Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On September 15, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $67.23 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $22.5 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of -6.29%, while its shares lost 27.35% over the past 52 weeks.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We sold Brown & Brown Inc. during the quarter. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) remains a high-quality business, but we see rising near term risks as the company navigates an industry downturn, integrates a large acquisition and works to close an AI capability gap versus larger peers."
Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 44 hedge fund portfolios held Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 41 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) 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.
#quarter #letter
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Parnassus Growth Equity Fund highlighted Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On September 15, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $67.23 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $22.5 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of -6.29%, while its shares lost 27.35% over the past 52 weeks.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We sold Brown & Brown Inc. during the quarter. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) remains a high-quality business, but we see rising near term risks as the company navigates an industry downturn, integrates a large acquisition and works to close an AI capability gap versus larger peers."
Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 44 hedge fund portfolios held Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 41 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) 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.
#quarter #letter
17 days ago
Weitz Investment Management, an investment management firm, released its second-quarter Q2 2026 investor letter for the "Multi Cap Equity Fund". The letter can be downloaded here. The Multi Cap Equity Fund's Institutional Class returned 7.90% in Q2, underperforming the Bloomberg U.S. 3000 Index's 15.71% gain. Markets rose in the quarter on hopes of de-escalating Middle East tensions and easing oil flow. Investor focus shifted back to artificial intelligence, despite component shortages like processing chips affecting profits and valuations. Valuation-sensitive investors are selective within the AI sector, in contrast to valuation-agnostic indexes that adopt a more relaxed strategy. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund highlighted Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN). Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is a leading professional services company that provides consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services. On September 15, 2026, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) closed at $193.40 per share. Over the past month, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) was up 3.11%, and its shares lost 21.71% over the past 52 weeks. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) has a market capitalization of $118.33 billion.
Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund stated the following regarding Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"IT services and management consultant Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) reported results in mid-June that did little to quell investor fears of AI-disintermediation. Accenture has a long history of helping clients navigate technological transformation, and we believe it will again play a role as AI permeates businesses. To date, however, we have maintained a smaller position given the higher-than-usual degree of uncertainty."
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 69 hedge fund portfolios held Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 64 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) 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.
#investor
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund highlighted Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN). Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is a leading professional services company that provides consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services. On September 15, 2026, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) closed at $193.40 per share. Over the past month, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) was up 3.11%, and its shares lost 21.71% over the past 52 weeks. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) has a market capitalization of $118.33 billion.
Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund stated the following regarding Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"IT services and management consultant Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) reported results in mid-June that did little to quell investor fears of AI-disintermediation. Accenture has a long history of helping clients navigate technological transformation, and we believe it will again play a role as AI permeates businesses. To date, however, we have maintained a smaller position given the higher-than-usual degree of uncertainty."
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 69 hedge fund portfolios held Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 64 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) 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.
#investor
17 days ago
The death of a spouse triggers an avalanche of decisions: paperwork, accounts, insurance claims, legal matters and well-meaning relatives with opinions about what to do with the money. Suze Orman's advice for navigating all of it is simple.
"The one crucial piece of advice I have for the surviving spouse is to move slowly and make as few financial decisions as possible," Orman wrote on her website. "The last thing you need is the stress of making big money decisions when grieving is most fierce."
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake. Here's what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP
The tax breaks in Trump's 'big beautiful bill' expire after 2028. Here are 4 moves to make before the window closes
#advice #make
"The one crucial piece of advice I have for the surviving spouse is to move slowly and make as few financial decisions as possible," Orman wrote on her website. "The last thing you need is the stress of making big money decisions when grieving is most fierce."
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake. Here's what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP
The tax breaks in Trump's 'big beautiful bill' expire after 2028. Here are 4 moves to make before the window closes
#advice #make
18 days ago
Walk into a Burlington Stores (NYSE:BURL) location on a Saturday afternoon, and you will see the mechanism of the company's business model in action. It's a literal hunt for value: a customer finds a name-brand jacket at a steep discount, checks the tag, and takes it to the register. Burlington operates as an off-price retailer of apparel, footwear, and home goods. With the stock priced at $228.73 as of Sept. 15, 2026, it has fallen by 15% over the past 12 months, a period marked by significant operational expansion and active navigation of the retail sector.
Our proprietary Hidden Gems scoring system ****** igns Burlington Stores an overall Superscore of 78 out of 100, placing it in the Strong category. The Superscore is an AI-powered metric that evaluates a company's overall strength by combining financial performance, product-market position, technological capabilities, leadership quality, and relative valuation. It represents the unification of all our scores into a single score for public companies, with five rating bands: Exceptional (90-100), Strong (75-89), Above Average (60-74), Average (40-59), and Cautious (0-39).
This 78 Superscore places the company in the Top ~14% of every company we score. This ****** ysis provides a data-driven signal to help you weigh the company's operational strengths against its risks as part of your own due diligence.
Accelerated store growth: Management successfully opened 104 net new stores in fiscal 2025, executing a long-term strategy to reach 2,000 total locations.
Operational efficiency gains: Gross margin reached 46% in Q2 fiscal 2026, driven by improved inventory turnover and a sophisticated supply chain that distributes goods from six regional centers.
#strong
Our proprietary Hidden Gems scoring system ****** igns Burlington Stores an overall Superscore of 78 out of 100, placing it in the Strong category. The Superscore is an AI-powered metric that evaluates a company's overall strength by combining financial performance, product-market position, technological capabilities, leadership quality, and relative valuation. It represents the unification of all our scores into a single score for public companies, with five rating bands: Exceptional (90-100), Strong (75-89), Above Average (60-74), Average (40-59), and Cautious (0-39).
This 78 Superscore places the company in the Top ~14% of every company we score. This ****** ysis provides a data-driven signal to help you weigh the company's operational strengths against its risks as part of your own due diligence.
Accelerated store growth: Management successfully opened 104 net new stores in fiscal 2025, executing a long-term strategy to reach 2,000 total locations.
Operational efficiency gains: Gross margin reached 46% in Q2 fiscal 2026, driven by improved inventory turnover and a sophisticated supply chain that distributes goods from six regional centers.
#strong
18 days ago
In March, shortly after the Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump's International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs and paved the way for $100 billion in import taxes being redistributed back to American importers, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer shared his idea of what these companies should do with this influx of cash.
"If I were these companies, and somehow they get this windfall, the most important thing and the smartest thing they should do is give it as bonuses to their workers," Greer told CNBC.
It appears some companies have heeded Greer's suggestion. As businesses receive more than $100 billion the U.S. Treasury has doled out in refunds since May, many are vowing to lower prices or pay down debts. A handful, however, are giving the cash back to their employees.
In its second quarter earnings report last month, houseware brand Williams Sonoma said it would allocate $10 million for one-time payments to 401(k) accounts to eligible employees "in recognition of their efforts navigating the IEEPA tariffs."
"We're so appreciative to have the money back and to be able to reward our employees with part of it," President and CEO Laura Alber said on an earnings call. "They have done such an amazing job."
#Companies #employees
"If I were these companies, and somehow they get this windfall, the most important thing and the smartest thing they should do is give it as bonuses to their workers," Greer told CNBC.
It appears some companies have heeded Greer's suggestion. As businesses receive more than $100 billion the U.S. Treasury has doled out in refunds since May, many are vowing to lower prices or pay down debts. A handful, however, are giving the cash back to their employees.
In its second quarter earnings report last month, houseware brand Williams Sonoma said it would allocate $10 million for one-time payments to 401(k) accounts to eligible employees "in recognition of their efforts navigating the IEEPA tariffs."
"We're so appreciative to have the money back and to be able to reward our employees with part of it," President and CEO Laura Alber said on an earnings call. "They have done such an amazing job."
#Companies #employees
18 days 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.
#billion #depuy
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.
#billion #depuy
18 days ago
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Honeywell Aerospace Inc. (HONA), is an aerospace company that develops engines, avionics, flight controls, navigation, sensors, propulsion systems, and other technologies for commercial aviation, defense, business aviation, and **** e applications.
Companies valued between $10 billion and $200 billion are generally classified as "large-cap stocks," and Honeywell Aerospace, with a market capitalization of approximately $50.2 billion, comfortably fits this category. Its diversified portfolio spanning avionics, engines, power systems, and controls makes it a key player within the aerospace and defense industry.
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.
#aerospace #systems #aviation
Companies valued between $10 billion and $200 billion are generally classified as "large-cap stocks," and Honeywell Aerospace, with a market capitalization of approximately $50.2 billion, comfortably fits this category. Its diversified portfolio spanning avionics, engines, power systems, and controls makes it a key player within the aerospace and defense industry.
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.
#aerospace #systems #aviation
18 days 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
18 days ago
The most talked about and market moving research calls around Wall Street are now in one place. Here are today's research calls that investors need to know, as compiled by The Fly.
Top 5 Upgrades:
Wells Fargo upgraded Ulta Beauty (ULTA) to Equal Weight from Underweight with a price target of $525, up from $450, after meeting with management. The firm says the company is navigating industry headwinds better than expected.
Oppenheimer upgraded Etsy (ETSY) to Outperform from Perform with a $90 price target. The firm cites the company's AI search benefits, product improvements, and app engagement for the upgrade.
Berenberg upgraded Eli Lilly (LLY) to Buy from Hold with a price target of $1,400, up from $1,220. The firm says its 2026 return on investment **** ysis confirms Eli Lilly's "strong track record of delivering best-in-class returns on investment."
Bernstein upgraded Agilon Health (AGL) to Outperform from Market Perform with a price target of $125, up from $86. The company is undergoing a turnaround focused on risk-taking discipline and incremental medical cost improvements, the firm tells investors in a research note.
#firm #outperform #perform
Top 5 Upgrades:
Wells Fargo upgraded Ulta Beauty (ULTA) to Equal Weight from Underweight with a price target of $525, up from $450, after meeting with management. The firm says the company is navigating industry headwinds better than expected.
Oppenheimer upgraded Etsy (ETSY) to Outperform from Perform with a $90 price target. The firm cites the company's AI search benefits, product improvements, and app engagement for the upgrade.
Berenberg upgraded Eli Lilly (LLY) to Buy from Hold with a price target of $1,400, up from $1,220. The firm says its 2026 return on investment **** ysis confirms Eli Lilly's "strong track record of delivering best-in-class returns on investment."
Bernstein upgraded Agilon Health (AGL) to Outperform from Market Perform with a price target of $125, up from $86. The company is undergoing a turnaround focused on risk-taking discipline and incremental medical cost improvements, the firm tells investors in a research note.
#firm #outperform #perform
18 days ago
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Honeywell Aerospace Inc. (HONA), is an aerospace company that develops engines, avionics, flight controls, navigation, sensors, propulsion systems, and other technologies for commercial aviation, defense, business aviation, and ***** e applications.
Companies valued between $10 billion and $200 billion are generally classified as "large-cap stocks," and Honeywell Aerospace, with a market capitalization of approximately $50.2 billion, comfortably fits this category. Its diversified portfolio spanning avionics, engines, power systems, and controls makes it a key player within the aerospace and defense industry.
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.
#aerospace
Companies valued between $10 billion and $200 billion are generally classified as "large-cap stocks," and Honeywell Aerospace, with a market capitalization of approximately $50.2 billion, comfortably fits this category. Its diversified portfolio spanning avionics, engines, power systems, and controls makes it a key player within the aerospace and defense industry.
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.
#aerospace
18 days ago
Oregon billionaires Phil and Penny Knight committed $1.1 billion to the Providence St. Vincent Medical Center and the Providence Heart Institute to build Oregon's first hospital dedicated to women's health, the medical center announced Tuesday.
Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and his wife, have supported the institute for more than a decade, previously giving it more than $200 million, including a $75 million gift earlier this year. Along with creating the new women's hospital, their new donation will help the medical center expand cardiovascular care and clinical research and training programs for the heart institute's medical personnel. It will also make it easier to integrate patient care across the medical center.
"Women's health needs change throughout life, and too often patients are asked to navigate multiple specialties and care settings on their own," Ray Moreno, the medical center's CEO, said in a statement. "The Knights' gift is an opportunity to bring these resources together, expanding access for women across Oregon and creating a strong foundation to bridge care gaps in women's health."
The donation is particularly significant because it comes at a moment when U.S. hospitals are seeing far more pregnant patients who are also managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, addiction, and behavioral and mental health issues. It also lands at the same time healthcare organizations are struggling with the impact of government funding cuts.
"Resources are scarce, and healthcare is increasingly looking to philanthropy to fill in the gaps," Dan Oseran, the heart institute's executive medical director, told the Chronicle. "A gift like this reduces that friction a little bit and provides the ability to do things we wouldn't otherwise be able to do."
#center #oregon #knight #providence
Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and his wife, have supported the institute for more than a decade, previously giving it more than $200 million, including a $75 million gift earlier this year. Along with creating the new women's hospital, their new donation will help the medical center expand cardiovascular care and clinical research and training programs for the heart institute's medical personnel. It will also make it easier to integrate patient care across the medical center.
"Women's health needs change throughout life, and too often patients are asked to navigate multiple specialties and care settings on their own," Ray Moreno, the medical center's CEO, said in a statement. "The Knights' gift is an opportunity to bring these resources together, expanding access for women across Oregon and creating a strong foundation to bridge care gaps in women's health."
The donation is particularly significant because it comes at a moment when U.S. hospitals are seeing far more pregnant patients who are also managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, addiction, and behavioral and mental health issues. It also lands at the same time healthcare organizations are struggling with the impact of government funding cuts.
"Resources are scarce, and healthcare is increasingly looking to philanthropy to fill in the gaps," Dan Oseran, the heart institute's executive medical director, told the Chronicle. "A gift like this reduces that friction a little bit and provides the ability to do things we wouldn't otherwise be able to do."
#center #oregon #knight #providence
18 days 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 Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On September 15, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $67.23 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $22.5 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of -6.29%, while its shares lost 27.35% over the past 52 weeks.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We sold Brown & Brown Inc. during the quarter. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) remains a high-quality business, but we see rising near term risks as the company navigates an industry downturn, integrates a large acquisition and works to close an AI capability gap versus larger peers."
Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 44 hedge fund portfolios held Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 41 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) 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.
#fund #letter
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Parnassus Growth Equity Fund highlighted Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On September 15, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $67.23 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $22.5 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of -6.29%, while its shares lost 27.35% over the past 52 weeks.
Parnassus Growth Equity Fund stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We sold Brown & Brown Inc. during the quarter. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) remains a high-quality business, but we see rising near term risks as the company navigates an industry downturn, integrates a large acquisition and works to close an AI capability gap versus larger peers."
Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 44 hedge fund portfolios held Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 41 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) 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.
#fund #letter
19 days ago
Weitz Investment Management, an investment management firm, released its second-quarter Q2 2026 investor letter for the "Multi Cap Equity Fund". The letter can be downloaded here. The Multi Cap Equity Fund's Institutional Class returned 7.90% in Q2, underperforming the Bloomberg U.S. 3000 Index's 15.71% gain. Markets rose in the quarter on hopes of de-escalating Middle East tensions and easing oil flow. Investor focus shifted back to artificial intelligence, despite component shortages like processing chips affecting profits and valuations. Valuation-sensitive investors are selective within the AI sector, in contrast to valuation-agnostic indexes that adopt a more relaxed strategy. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund highlighted Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN). Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is a leading professional services company that provides consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services. On September 15, 2026, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) closed at $193.40 per share. Over the past month, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) was up 3.11%, and its shares lost 21.71% over the past 52 weeks. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) has a market capitalization of $118.33 billion.
Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund stated the following regarding Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"IT services and management consultant Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) reported results in mid-June that did little to quell investor fears of AI-disintermediation. Accenture has a long history of helping clients navigate technological transformation, and we believe it will again play a role as AI permeates businesses. To date, however, we have maintained a smaller position given the higher-than-usual degree of uncertainty."
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 69 hedge fund portfolios held Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 64 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) 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.
#multi #investment
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund highlighted Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN). Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is a leading professional services company that provides consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services. On September 15, 2026, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) closed at $193.40 per share. Over the past month, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) was up 3.11%, and its shares lost 21.71% over the past 52 weeks. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) has a market capitalization of $118.33 billion.
Weitz Multi Cap Equity Fund stated the following regarding Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"IT services and management consultant Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) reported results in mid-June that did little to quell investor fears of AI-disintermediation. Accenture has a long history of helping clients navigate technological transformation, and we believe it will again play a role as AI permeates businesses. To date, however, we have maintained a smaller position given the higher-than-usual degree of uncertainty."
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 69 hedge fund portfolios held Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 64 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) 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.
#multi #investment
20 days ago
Florida State is in search of a new athletic director after the university fired Michael Alford on Monday, Sep. 14, four years after he was hired.
The move was made by FSU president Richard McCullough, who said the Seminoles' athletic program needs to better position itself for the future of collegiate athletics. When he spoke with the media Monday morning, McCullough gave insight into what FSU is looking for in its next athletic director.
He placed a value on business acumen and cited the need for success in revenue generation, while also being savvy enough to navigate the complexities of modern collegiate sports, particularly football.
While no move is imminent, here are a few names that make our initial FSU AD hot board.
Dickey has led the Broncos since 2021, and during his time as the program's athletic director, ***** ey has had a huge impact on revenue generation for the program. That's an area that McCullough highlighted as being important to the Seminoles next AD when speaking to the media after Alford's firing. ***** ey, named the 2025 National ***** ociation of Collegiate Directors of Athletics AD of the year, has overseen Boise State's transition from the Mountain West into the reimagined Pac-12, which would suit FSU and the university's potential interest in departing the ACC.
#Athletic #collegiate
The move was made by FSU president Richard McCullough, who said the Seminoles' athletic program needs to better position itself for the future of collegiate athletics. When he spoke with the media Monday morning, McCullough gave insight into what FSU is looking for in its next athletic director.
He placed a value on business acumen and cited the need for success in revenue generation, while also being savvy enough to navigate the complexities of modern collegiate sports, particularly football.
While no move is imminent, here are a few names that make our initial FSU AD hot board.
Dickey has led the Broncos since 2021, and during his time as the program's athletic director, ***** ey has had a huge impact on revenue generation for the program. That's an area that McCullough highlighted as being important to the Seminoles next AD when speaking to the media after Alford's firing. ***** ey, named the 2025 National ***** ociation of Collegiate Directors of Athletics AD of the year, has overseen Boise State's transition from the Mountain West into the reimagined Pac-12, which would suit FSU and the university's potential interest in departing the ACC.
#Athletic #collegiate
20 days ago
On September 10, Tsakos Energy Navigation (NYSE:TEN) reported a first half of 2026 that reads like a fantasy year for a decades-old tanker operator. Net income hit $228 million, more than triple what the company earned over the same six months a year earlier, while diluted EPS climbed to $7.12 from $1.70. Behind those numbers sits a rare combination: a fleet locked into billions in forward earnings, war-driven cargo detours pushing rates higher, and a newbuilding bet that has already paid off before half the ships have even hit the water.
The earnings power came from two directions at once. The average time charter equivalent rate rose 41% to $43,503 a day in the first half, and profit-sharing contracts on nine large vessels brought in $71 million, up from just $10 million a year earlier. Even with six vessels pulled from service for scheduled dry docks, the fleet still ran at 96.5% utilization. Second-quarter results followed the same pattern, with net income of $139.3 million, which included a $38 million gain on ******* et sales, and earnings per share of $4.40 against $0.67 in last year's second quarter.
Tsakos is also sitting on a fleet renewal bet that already worked out. Since the start of 2023, the company has sold 20 tankers averaging 17.3 years old and replaced them with 35 vessels averaging just half a year old. Its 26-ship newbuilding program, contracted for about $3.1 billion, is now valued roughly 30% above that cost, and CEO Nikolas Tsakos said the VLCCs in that order book have nearly doubled in price since they were placed. With $466 million in cash and forward committed earnings of roughly $3.5 billion, management has room to raise its dividend, which already paid out $1.60 per share this year, and is weighing whether to redeem $120 million of 9.25% preferred shares, a move it estimates could add $0.30 to $0.40 to EPS.
That performance came against a backdrop the company would rather not have. President George Saroglou said vessels have been attacked, and seafarers hurt or killed trying to keep global trade moving through the Strait of Hormuz, where a ceasefire unraveled roughly halfway through its planned 60-day run and a US naval presence now tries to manage safe passage. Tsakos has chosen to route around the strait entirely rather than put crews through the toll those attacks take.
The cost side is climbing too. Bunker prices jumped about 25%, pushing first-half voyage expenses to $82 million from $68 million, and operating expenses rose to $111 million from $102 million on higher dry-docking costs and inflation. Total debt reached $2.1 billion at the end of June, up from $1.8 billion a year earlier, as the company finances its newbuilding program. And while profit-sharing revenue jumped, the operating days tied to those market-related contracts actually fell 22%, meaning a smaller slice of the fleet is left exposed to capture further spot-rate gains if the tanker market keeps running hot.
#billion
The earnings power came from two directions at once. The average time charter equivalent rate rose 41% to $43,503 a day in the first half, and profit-sharing contracts on nine large vessels brought in $71 million, up from just $10 million a year earlier. Even with six vessels pulled from service for scheduled dry docks, the fleet still ran at 96.5% utilization. Second-quarter results followed the same pattern, with net income of $139.3 million, which included a $38 million gain on ******* et sales, and earnings per share of $4.40 against $0.67 in last year's second quarter.
Tsakos is also sitting on a fleet renewal bet that already worked out. Since the start of 2023, the company has sold 20 tankers averaging 17.3 years old and replaced them with 35 vessels averaging just half a year old. Its 26-ship newbuilding program, contracted for about $3.1 billion, is now valued roughly 30% above that cost, and CEO Nikolas Tsakos said the VLCCs in that order book have nearly doubled in price since they were placed. With $466 million in cash and forward committed earnings of roughly $3.5 billion, management has room to raise its dividend, which already paid out $1.60 per share this year, and is weighing whether to redeem $120 million of 9.25% preferred shares, a move it estimates could add $0.30 to $0.40 to EPS.
That performance came against a backdrop the company would rather not have. President George Saroglou said vessels have been attacked, and seafarers hurt or killed trying to keep global trade moving through the Strait of Hormuz, where a ceasefire unraveled roughly halfway through its planned 60-day run and a US naval presence now tries to manage safe passage. Tsakos has chosen to route around the strait entirely rather than put crews through the toll those attacks take.
The cost side is climbing too. Bunker prices jumped about 25%, pushing first-half voyage expenses to $82 million from $68 million, and operating expenses rose to $111 million from $102 million on higher dry-docking costs and inflation. Total debt reached $2.1 billion at the end of June, up from $1.8 billion a year earlier, as the company finances its newbuilding program. And while profit-sharing revenue jumped, the operating days tied to those market-related contracts actually fell 22%, meaning a smaller slice of the fleet is left exposed to capture further spot-rate gains if the tanker market keeps running hot.
#billion
20 days ago
Kansas City, Missouri — Vice President JD Vance announced Monday the Trump administration will suspend roughly 870,000 people suspected of defrauding pandemic-era small business programs from receiving future federal loans.
The vice president contended that borrowers who stole taxpayer money should no longer be eligible to receive loans from government-backed programs.
"If you screwed the American taxpayer, the federal government is now going to say you're cut off, no more," Vance told reporters. "You shouldn't be applying anymore, and if you do apply, you're no longer able to get those benefits."
His remarks came as the Justice Department announced a slew of cases in a nationwide crackdown on fraud involving the COVID-19-era Paycheck Protection Program.
The department's enforcement push, which ran from June 12 through Sept. 1 and was dubbed "Heartland fraud surge," resulted in actions involving more than 160 defendants and approximately $245 million in intended losses to taxpayers. The operation was put into action more than five years after the government pushed emergency loans to businesses nationwide that were struggling as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
#president #pandemic #federal
The vice president contended that borrowers who stole taxpayer money should no longer be eligible to receive loans from government-backed programs.
"If you screwed the American taxpayer, the federal government is now going to say you're cut off, no more," Vance told reporters. "You shouldn't be applying anymore, and if you do apply, you're no longer able to get those benefits."
His remarks came as the Justice Department announced a slew of cases in a nationwide crackdown on fraud involving the COVID-19-era Paycheck Protection Program.
The department's enforcement push, which ran from June 12 through Sept. 1 and was dubbed "Heartland fraud surge," resulted in actions involving more than 160 defendants and approximately $245 million in intended losses to taxpayers. The operation was put into action more than five years after the government pushed emergency loans to businesses nationwide that were struggling as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
#president #pandemic #federal
20 days ago
Jeff Arcuri credits cruise ship gigs and social media for helping launch his comedy career
He and wife Katie Thurston are navigating her stage 4 cancer diagnosis while pursuing IVF and surrogacy plans
Arcuri incorporates their personal journey into his comedy and praises Thurston as his muse and biggest supporter
Three years ago, comedian Jeff Arcuri would never have predicted he'd be where he is today: a celebrated stand-up, married with a dog and a new homeowner of a fixer-upper in Brooklyn.
He also never thought he'd be navigating the pitfalls of cancer; his wife, Bachelorette star Katie Thurston, 35, was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer last March, just months after they were engaged. Her cancer has since developed to stage 4.
#cancer
He and wife Katie Thurston are navigating her stage 4 cancer diagnosis while pursuing IVF and surrogacy plans
Arcuri incorporates their personal journey into his comedy and praises Thurston as his muse and biggest supporter
Three years ago, comedian Jeff Arcuri would never have predicted he'd be where he is today: a celebrated stand-up, married with a dog and a new homeowner of a fixer-upper in Brooklyn.
He also never thought he'd be navigating the pitfalls of cancer; his wife, Bachelorette star Katie Thurston, 35, was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer last March, just months after they were engaged. Her cancer has since developed to stage 4.
#cancer
20 days ago
It's always tough navigating that first injury report coming out of preseason and training camp. Some injuries are downplayed and others weren't as serious as initially thought. We also get some surprises (we're looking at you Raiders and Brock Bowers).
But we've gotten through most of the action for Week 1 and can lookahead to which injuries we'll need to track going into the second slate of the season. Below is all the latest news and updates, plus some fantasy football ******* ysis to help with weekly lineup tinkering.
Kyler Murray, MIN (concussion)
Sam Darnold, SEA (hip)
Murray: It was a tough Minnesota debut for Murray, exiting early in the contest after a questionable hit from Packers S Javon Bullard. Prior to the hit, Murray had thrown an egregious interception into triple coverage. Murray did not return, finishing the game 3-for-5 for 18 yards and the INT, plus two carries for nine yards.
#bowers
But we've gotten through most of the action for Week 1 and can lookahead to which injuries we'll need to track going into the second slate of the season. Below is all the latest news and updates, plus some fantasy football ******* ysis to help with weekly lineup tinkering.
Kyler Murray, MIN (concussion)
Sam Darnold, SEA (hip)
Murray: It was a tough Minnesota debut for Murray, exiting early in the contest after a questionable hit from Packers S Javon Bullard. Prior to the hit, Murray had thrown an egregious interception into triple coverage. Murray did not return, finishing the game 3-for-5 for 18 yards and the INT, plus two carries for nine yards.
#bowers
22 days ago
Jai Opetaia became the first opponent to stop Noel Mikaelian in the co-main event Saturday in Las Vegas.
Following the win, Opetaia was joined in the ring by current unified cruiserweight champion David Benavidez.
The two men agreed to face each other next May 2027 in Las Vegas to the delight of fans at the T-Mobile Arena.
The co-main event delivered a win for Jai Opetaia in the ring, and thrilled fans with news of a unification superfight next May in Las Vegas. Start making your travel plans now.
First things first. Opetaia did what no one had yet managed to do: stop Noel Mikaelian.
#opetaia #main
Following the win, Opetaia was joined in the ring by current unified cruiserweight champion David Benavidez.
The two men agreed to face each other next May 2027 in Las Vegas to the delight of fans at the T-Mobile Arena.
The co-main event delivered a win for Jai Opetaia in the ring, and thrilled fans with news of a unification superfight next May in Las Vegas. Start making your travel plans now.
First things first. Opetaia did what no one had yet managed to do: stop Noel Mikaelian.
#opetaia #main
22 days ago
Jai Opetaia scored a brutal technical knockout win in the ninth round of his cruiserweight clash with Noel Mikaelian on Saturday night, then lined up a potentially massive showdown with pound-for-pound star David Benavidez for Cinco de Mayo next year.
It all went down at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena on the Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn undercard, and provided the sport with something it has lacked — continuity — in a 200-pound division often overlooked in favor of the traditionally more glamorous weight classes that surround it.
Opetaia walked to the ring sweating, as if he'd warmed up with intent to hurt, and he needed no second invitation to land the first punch of the night. He kept his forearms high to thwart Mikaelian's probing punches, throwing single shots in return, mostly to the head and to the body too. But a clash of heads, likely caused by their opposing stances, appeared to open a cut below Opetaia's eye, slowing The Ring champion's momentum.
IS THIS FINALLY GOING TO HAPPEN ⁉️
See y'all next Cinco de Mayo 👀#GarciaBenn pic.twitter.com/rzWlLyVCzN
Whether it was the bruising that had begun to grow, or the loss of his friend and former trainer Louis Meehan, who was shot dead Wednesday in a Sydney suburb, Opetaia seemed momentarily subdued.
#mayo #next
It all went down at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena on the Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn undercard, and provided the sport with something it has lacked — continuity — in a 200-pound division often overlooked in favor of the traditionally more glamorous weight classes that surround it.
Opetaia walked to the ring sweating, as if he'd warmed up with intent to hurt, and he needed no second invitation to land the first punch of the night. He kept his forearms high to thwart Mikaelian's probing punches, throwing single shots in return, mostly to the head and to the body too. But a clash of heads, likely caused by their opposing stances, appeared to open a cut below Opetaia's eye, slowing The Ring champion's momentum.
IS THIS FINALLY GOING TO HAPPEN ⁉️
See y'all next Cinco de Mayo 👀#GarciaBenn pic.twitter.com/rzWlLyVCzN
Whether it was the bruising that had begun to grow, or the loss of his friend and former trainer Louis Meehan, who was shot dead Wednesday in a Sydney suburb, Opetaia seemed momentarily subdued.
#mayo #next
