4 hours ago
A pastor kicked off a recent campaign stop for Michael Whatley, the Republican nominee for Senate, with a prayer that asked God to bestow "integrity and honesty" upon the event and to right wrongs "hammered down on the conservative movement."
The prayer was hardly unusual by North Carolina political standards. What was surprising was the man who delivered it. Pastor Daimon L. King is a registered ***** offender, twice sentenced to prison for convictions involving children, according to state and court records.
The episode occurred with two months to go in a marquee Senate race that could help decide which party controls the chamber after the November elections. It risks undermining one of Whatley's central campaign arguments — that his Democratic opponent, former Gov. Roy Cooper, is soft on crime. And it could feed into an advertising blitz by Democrats that has targeted the Republican candidate's ***** ociation with another convicted ***** offender, a former GOP official.
King did not respond to messages seeking comment.
Whatley's campaign declined to make him available for an interview. In a statement, campaign spokesman DJ Griffin said Whatley did not know King and the event "was NOT planned nor organized by the Whatley campaign nor did the campaign invite any of the guests."
#king #prayer #Event
The prayer was hardly unusual by North Carolina political standards. What was surprising was the man who delivered it. Pastor Daimon L. King is a registered ***** offender, twice sentenced to prison for convictions involving children, according to state and court records.
The episode occurred with two months to go in a marquee Senate race that could help decide which party controls the chamber after the November elections. It risks undermining one of Whatley's central campaign arguments — that his Democratic opponent, former Gov. Roy Cooper, is soft on crime. And it could feed into an advertising blitz by Democrats that has targeted the Republican candidate's ***** ociation with another convicted ***** offender, a former GOP official.
King did not respond to messages seeking comment.
Whatley's campaign declined to make him available for an interview. In a statement, campaign spokesman DJ Griffin said Whatley did not know King and the event "was NOT planned nor organized by the Whatley campaign nor did the campaign invite any of the guests."
#king #prayer #Event
8 hours ago
Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM) reported fiscal second-quarter net sales of $394.4 million, down 2.2%. Full-price direct-to-consumer sales declined 1%, while wholesale sales fell 14%, primarily reflecting lower off-price sales.
GAAP gross margin increased to 73.8% from 61.4% after Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM) recognized approximately $42 million of tariff refund claims as a reduction of cost of goods sold. Company-defined non-GAAP adjusted gross margin, excluding tariff refunds and LIFO effects, still improved to 63.1% from 61.7%. Updated **** ortment, sourcing, and pricing strategies increased initial markups, while lower off-price wholesale sales improved the sales mix.
Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM) lowered full-year sales guidance to $1.43 billion to $1.47 billion from $1.475 billion to $1.505 billion. Company-defined non-GAAP adjusted EPS guidance fell to $1.60 to $2.00 from $2.30 to $2.70, reducing the midpoint by 28%. Adjusted EPS excludes LIFO effects, tariff refunds and related interest, Johnny Was amortization, distribution-center relocation costs, merchandising initiatives, store-closure impairments and related taxes.
Underlying margin expansion suggests Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM) improved product economics beyond the one-time refund. Company-defined non-GAAP adjusted operating income, which excludes LIFO effects, tariff refunds and related interest, Johnny Was amortization, and specified distribution-center, merchandising, and store-closure costs, increased to $29.3 million from $28.3 million. Adjusted operating margin rose to 7.4% from 7.0%.
Tommy Bahama remained the strongest major brand for Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM), with sales increasing 0.8% and adjusted gross margin rising to 63.6% from 60.7%. FIFO inventory fell $9 million, or 4%, from one year earlier, reducing markdown exposure.
#gaap
GAAP gross margin increased to 73.8% from 61.4% after Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM) recognized approximately $42 million of tariff refund claims as a reduction of cost of goods sold. Company-defined non-GAAP adjusted gross margin, excluding tariff refunds and LIFO effects, still improved to 63.1% from 61.7%. Updated **** ortment, sourcing, and pricing strategies increased initial markups, while lower off-price wholesale sales improved the sales mix.
Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM) lowered full-year sales guidance to $1.43 billion to $1.47 billion from $1.475 billion to $1.505 billion. Company-defined non-GAAP adjusted EPS guidance fell to $1.60 to $2.00 from $2.30 to $2.70, reducing the midpoint by 28%. Adjusted EPS excludes LIFO effects, tariff refunds and related interest, Johnny Was amortization, distribution-center relocation costs, merchandising initiatives, store-closure impairments and related taxes.
Underlying margin expansion suggests Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM) improved product economics beyond the one-time refund. Company-defined non-GAAP adjusted operating income, which excludes LIFO effects, tariff refunds and related interest, Johnny Was amortization, and specified distribution-center, merchandising, and store-closure costs, increased to $29.3 million from $28.3 million. Adjusted operating margin rose to 7.4% from 7.0%.
Tommy Bahama remained the strongest major brand for Oxford Industries, Inc. (NYSE:OXM), with sales increasing 0.8% and adjusted gross margin rising to 63.6% from 60.7%. FIFO inventory fell $9 million, or 4%, from one year earlier, reducing markdown exposure.
#gaap
9 hours ago
US natural gas production is projected to reach a record high of 111.7 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd) in 2026, up from 107.6 bcfd in 2025, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). By 2027, domestic supply is expected to hit 115.9 bcfd.
But that's only half the story.
Over the next two years, US natural gas supply and demand will both rise to record levels, the EIA states in its Short-Term Energy Outlook.
Domestic gas consumption is projected to rise from a record 91.9 bcfd in 2025 to 111.7 bcfd in 2026 and 115.9 bcfd in 2027.
The agency said increased drilling efficiency, rising electricity demand, and expanding liquefied natural gas (LNG) export capacity continue to drive production despite selective capital spending by producers.
#bcfd #record #production #demand
But that's only half the story.
Over the next two years, US natural gas supply and demand will both rise to record levels, the EIA states in its Short-Term Energy Outlook.
Domestic gas consumption is projected to rise from a record 91.9 bcfd in 2025 to 111.7 bcfd in 2026 and 115.9 bcfd in 2027.
The agency said increased drilling efficiency, rising electricity demand, and expanding liquefied natural gas (LNG) export capacity continue to drive production despite selective capital spending by producers.
#bcfd #record #production #demand
9 hours ago
XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) reported that preliminary August 2026 North American less-than-truckload, or LTL, tonnage per day increased 3.7% from a year earlier. Shipments per day rose 5.7%, while average weight per shipment declined 1.8%. Final July figures showed tonnage per day increasing 5.8%, shipments per day rising 5.9%, and weight per shipment slipping 0.2%.
The two months indicate stronger shipment activity, but August's wider gap between shipment and tonnage growth points to lighter freight. The investment question is whether XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) can convert additional shipments into better network density and fixed-cost absorption without allowing extra handling costs to dilute margins.
Higher shipment counts can improve the utilization of routes, service centers, dock doors, and equipment. XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) operates an ****** et-based North American LTL network that moves approximately 16 billion pounds of freight annually. More shipments moving through that infrastructure can spread terminal, technology, and equipment costs across a larger revenue base.
The second quarter provides evidence that XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) has recently translated volume and pricing growth into stronger economics. North American LTL revenue increased 15.2% to $1.43 billion. Fuel-surcharge revenue accounted for part of that increase, rising to $314 million from $183 million. Separately, yield excluding fuel increased 4.4%, shipments per day rose 2.8%, and tonnage per day increased 1.0%.
XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) reported a company-defined non-GAAP adjusted operating ratio of 79.9%, an improvement of 300 basis points. XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) calculates adjusted operating ratio as one minus adjusted operating income divided by segment revenue, using unrounded amounts. Adjusted operating income removes amortization and restructuring costs and adjusts for gains on real estate transactions. XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) also reported a damage claims ratio below 0.2%.
#adjusted #north #operating
The two months indicate stronger shipment activity, but August's wider gap between shipment and tonnage growth points to lighter freight. The investment question is whether XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) can convert additional shipments into better network density and fixed-cost absorption without allowing extra handling costs to dilute margins.
Higher shipment counts can improve the utilization of routes, service centers, dock doors, and equipment. XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) operates an ****** et-based North American LTL network that moves approximately 16 billion pounds of freight annually. More shipments moving through that infrastructure can spread terminal, technology, and equipment costs across a larger revenue base.
The second quarter provides evidence that XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) has recently translated volume and pricing growth into stronger economics. North American LTL revenue increased 15.2% to $1.43 billion. Fuel-surcharge revenue accounted for part of that increase, rising to $314 million from $183 million. Separately, yield excluding fuel increased 4.4%, shipments per day rose 2.8%, and tonnage per day increased 1.0%.
XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) reported a company-defined non-GAAP adjusted operating ratio of 79.9%, an improvement of 300 basis points. XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) calculates adjusted operating ratio as one minus adjusted operating income divided by segment revenue, using unrounded amounts. Adjusted operating income removes amortization and restructuring costs and adjusts for gains on real estate transactions. XPO, Inc. (NYSE:XPO) also reported a damage claims ratio below 0.2%.
#adjusted #north #operating
9 hours ago
Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., the regulated utility subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED), joined New York regulatory staff and other parties in filing a proposed three-year steam-rate plan covering November 2026 through October 2029. Approval from the New York State Public Service Commission remains required.
The proposal includes headline base-rate changes of $13 million, $42 million and $39 million over the three rate years. A bill-shaping mechanism would instead implement corresponding base-rate increases of $26.6 million, $27.5 million and $28.5 million, producing an approximately 3.5% total customer-bill effect each year. Any revenue shortfall caused by delayed billing after the proposed November 1 effective date would be collected through a surcharge.
For Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED), the attraction is a visible investment and recovery framework. The trade-off is a 9.5% authorized return on common equity and limited room before earnings sharing begins.
The settlement supports $396 million of steam capital spending over three years, comprising $143 million, $127 million, and $126 million annually. The average rate base is projected to increase from $2.118 billion in the first rate year to $2.234 billion in the second and $2.311 billion in the third. That represents approximately 9.1% ***** ulative growth from the first year to the third, providing a larger base on which Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) can earn its authorized return.
The multiyear structure also improves planning. Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) would know the principal revenue, capital, and financing ***** umptions through October 2029 rather than returning immediately to a full rate proceeding. The proposed after-tax weighted average cost of capital rises from 7.07% to 7.19% across the plan, reflecting higher ***** umed long-term debt costs.
#million #consolidated #year #three
The proposal includes headline base-rate changes of $13 million, $42 million and $39 million over the three rate years. A bill-shaping mechanism would instead implement corresponding base-rate increases of $26.6 million, $27.5 million and $28.5 million, producing an approximately 3.5% total customer-bill effect each year. Any revenue shortfall caused by delayed billing after the proposed November 1 effective date would be collected through a surcharge.
For Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED), the attraction is a visible investment and recovery framework. The trade-off is a 9.5% authorized return on common equity and limited room before earnings sharing begins.
The settlement supports $396 million of steam capital spending over three years, comprising $143 million, $127 million, and $126 million annually. The average rate base is projected to increase from $2.118 billion in the first rate year to $2.234 billion in the second and $2.311 billion in the third. That represents approximately 9.1% ***** ulative growth from the first year to the third, providing a larger base on which Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) can earn its authorized return.
The multiyear structure also improves planning. Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) would know the principal revenue, capital, and financing ***** umptions through October 2029 rather than returning immediately to a full rate proceeding. The proposed after-tax weighted average cost of capital rises from 7.07% to 7.19% across the plan, reflecting higher ***** umed long-term debt costs.
#million #consolidated #year #three
11 hours ago
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) will be back in the hurt business this weekend to stage Noche UFC 4 LIVE on Paramount+ from inside Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.
Leading the way this weekend for UFC's celebration of Mexican Independence Day will be a featherweight clash between knockout specialist Jean Silva and rising contender Jose Delgado. Silva was originally expected to fight former interim UFC featherweight champion Yair Rodriguez in a long-awaited grudge match, but "El Pantera" was forced to withdraw due to injury just a few weeks ago.
Adding to the mix will be a co-main event clash between former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno and recent Ultimate Fighter winner Joseph Morales. Fight fans will also get to see Octagon appearances by Tommy McMilllen, Alexa Grasso, Dan Ige, Curtis Blaydes, David Martinez, Tim Elliott, Waldo Cortes-Acosta, and Yousri Belgaroui.
Ahead of Saturday's afternoon card, the official Noche UFC 4 ceremonial weigh ins will air LIVE and FREE on Friday night via YouTube beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET.
#silva #champion
Leading the way this weekend for UFC's celebration of Mexican Independence Day will be a featherweight clash between knockout specialist Jean Silva and rising contender Jose Delgado. Silva was originally expected to fight former interim UFC featherweight champion Yair Rodriguez in a long-awaited grudge match, but "El Pantera" was forced to withdraw due to injury just a few weeks ago.
Adding to the mix will be a co-main event clash between former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno and recent Ultimate Fighter winner Joseph Morales. Fight fans will also get to see Octagon appearances by Tommy McMilllen, Alexa Grasso, Dan Ige, Curtis Blaydes, David Martinez, Tim Elliott, Waldo Cortes-Acosta, and Yousri Belgaroui.
Ahead of Saturday's afternoon card, the official Noche UFC 4 ceremonial weigh ins will air LIVE and FREE on Friday night via YouTube beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET.
#silva #champion
13 hours ago
With the first game of the Cleveland Browns season just a couple of days away, they made it official on Friday that rookie offensive lineman Austin Barber would be the team's starter at right guard on Sunday when they open the season against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Veteran offensive lineman Teven Jenkins was slated to be the team's starting right guard this season, but an injury will hold him out of at least this week's game. Barber didn't play guard at Florida, so it's a new position for him after logging 2,087 snaps at left tackle and 490 snaps at right tackle during his time with the Gators.
Barber was a surprising pick at 86 overall for the Browns, but now they are asking him to start right away, and his experience will be something he needs to lean on, even at a new position on the offensive line. He brings a nasty temperament to the run game, looking to finish guys by blocking them into the dirt; maybe the Browns lucked their way into another Wyatt Teller-style player at the right guard position.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Rookie Austin Barber set to start at RG for the Browns vs Jacksonville
#position #jacksonville
Veteran offensive lineman Teven Jenkins was slated to be the team's starting right guard this season, but an injury will hold him out of at least this week's game. Barber didn't play guard at Florida, so it's a new position for him after logging 2,087 snaps at left tackle and 490 snaps at right tackle during his time with the Gators.
Barber was a surprising pick at 86 overall for the Browns, but now they are asking him to start right away, and his experience will be something he needs to lean on, even at a new position on the offensive line. He brings a nasty temperament to the run game, looking to finish guys by blocking them into the dirt; maybe the Browns lucked their way into another Wyatt Teller-style player at the right guard position.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Rookie Austin Barber set to start at RG for the Browns vs Jacksonville
#position #jacksonville
13 hours ago
Rising featherweights will collide at the Meta APEX this fall.
At UFC Fight Night 293, Austin Bashi and Lucas Brennan will look to regain momentum against one another in Las Vegas.
Two people with knowledge of the matchup recently informed MMA Junkie of the booking but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement.
Bashi (14-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC) entered the UFC with much hype but has encountered mixed results. He lost his debut to Christian Rodriguez, but bounced back with a win over John Yannis. In July, Bashi lost a hard-fought battle against Jose Delgado, who is now considered a contender at featherweight.
Brennan (11-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) gained notoriety for his nine-fight stint in Bellator during which he went undefeated. After a loss in PFL, Brennan departed the promotion and went to the regional scene. After a 2-1 run there, the UFC picked him up in April. He lost his debut to Francis Marshall by unanimous decision. Brennan is a second generation UFC fighter, being the son of promotional alumnus Chris Brennan.
#went #rising
At UFC Fight Night 293, Austin Bashi and Lucas Brennan will look to regain momentum against one another in Las Vegas.
Two people with knowledge of the matchup recently informed MMA Junkie of the booking but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement.
Bashi (14-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC) entered the UFC with much hype but has encountered mixed results. He lost his debut to Christian Rodriguez, but bounced back with a win over John Yannis. In July, Bashi lost a hard-fought battle against Jose Delgado, who is now considered a contender at featherweight.
Brennan (11-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) gained notoriety for his nine-fight stint in Bellator during which he went undefeated. After a loss in PFL, Brennan departed the promotion and went to the regional scene. After a 2-1 run there, the UFC picked him up in April. He lost his debut to Francis Marshall by unanimous decision. Brennan is a second generation UFC fighter, being the son of promotional alumnus Chris Brennan.
#went #rising
13 hours ago
The Tennessee **** ans made the first somewhat surprising pick of the 2026 NFL Draft when they selected former Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate with the number four overall pick. With his first NFL game on the horizon, CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson believes he was worth the fourth overall pick for the **** ans.
Tate was drafted with the expectation that he can become a foundational piece of the offense and a long-term number one target for second-year quarterback Cam Ward. That might be a lot to ask from a rookie, but everything about the situation suggests the **** ans had a plan.
The biggest question surrounding the **** ans' selection was whether Tate's talent will eventually justify taking him fourth overall. Including Tate, only five wide receivers (six if you include Travis Hunter) have been selected in the top five of the NFL Draft since 2015.
Excluding Jacksonville Jaguars WR/CB Travis Hunter, former **** ans WR Corey Davis had the worst rookie season of those top five selections with 375 yards and 0 touchdowns. So, it made sense why **** ans fans, specifically, may have had concerns about the Tate selection.
However, a strong training camp has many anticipating his NFL regular-season debut. Tate doesn't need to immediately become one of the best receivers in the NFL for the pick to be successful, but Tennessee needs to see enough flashes to believe they have found a long-term offensive cornerstone.
#tate #draft
Tate was drafted with the expectation that he can become a foundational piece of the offense and a long-term number one target for second-year quarterback Cam Ward. That might be a lot to ask from a rookie, but everything about the situation suggests the **** ans had a plan.
The biggest question surrounding the **** ans' selection was whether Tate's talent will eventually justify taking him fourth overall. Including Tate, only five wide receivers (six if you include Travis Hunter) have been selected in the top five of the NFL Draft since 2015.
Excluding Jacksonville Jaguars WR/CB Travis Hunter, former **** ans WR Corey Davis had the worst rookie season of those top five selections with 375 yards and 0 touchdowns. So, it made sense why **** ans fans, specifically, may have had concerns about the Tate selection.
However, a strong training camp has many anticipating his NFL regular-season debut. Tate doesn't need to immediately become one of the best receivers in the NFL for the pick to be successful, but Tennessee needs to see enough flashes to believe they have found a long-term offensive cornerstone.
#tate #draft
13 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 Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX). Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) designs, engineers, and manufactures integrated aerospace and defense subsystems for **** e and defense applications. On September 09, 2026, Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) closed at $11.94 per share. Over the past month, Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) declined 36.49% and its shares lost 45.95% over the past three months. Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) has a market capitalization of $2.06 billion and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $11.77 and $24.24.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We are also invested in Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) and Elmet Group (ELMT). Applied Aerospace participates in many of the fastest growing programs in defense as a sole sourced, IP-rich component supplier, enabling high (and rising) EBITDA margins. We believe bookings can accelerate and drive revenues, earnings, and the multiple higher."
rommma/Shutterstock.com
#Equity
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Prosper Stars & Stripes highlighted Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX). Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) designs, engineers, and manufactures integrated aerospace and defense subsystems for **** e and defense applications. On September 09, 2026, Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) closed at $11.94 per share. Over the past month, Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) declined 36.49% and its shares lost 45.95% over the past three months. Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) has a market capitalization of $2.06 billion and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $11.77 and $24.24.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We are also invested in Applied Aerospace & Defense, Inc. (NYSE:AADX) and Elmet Group (ELMT). Applied Aerospace participates in many of the fastest growing programs in defense as a sole sourced, IP-rich component supplier, enabling high (and rising) EBITDA margins. We believe bookings can accelerate and drive revenues, earnings, and the multiple higher."
rommma/Shutterstock.com
#Equity
14 hours ago
Volatility has picked up in recent days as the market digests rising yields and oil prices along with seasonal headwinds. With everything going on, volatility could rear its ugly head again at any time.
The VIX Index closed at 16.46 yesterday after briefly dropping below 14 last week.
Unusual Options Activity Points to Big Institutional Bets on These 3 Industries
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#Stock #index #points #bets
The VIX Index closed at 16.46 yesterday after briefly dropping below 14 last week.
Unusual Options Activity Points to Big Institutional Bets on These 3 Industries
Volatility Insurance for Applied Optoelectronics (AAOI) Stock Potentially Inspires a Contrarian Outlook
A Rare Quant Signal Just Flashed for Contrarian Options Traders in Home Depot Stock
#Stock #index #points #bets
14 hours ago
While much of the clothing and footwear industry has spent this earnings season explaining away low consumer demand, Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK) showed an entirely different story, and investors rewarded it accordingly.
Shares of the German footwear manufacturer rose up to 20% on August 13 after the company published fiscal third-quarter earnings that exceeded expectations and prompted management to improve its full-year guidance. Revenue for the quarter came in at €720 million (about $829 million), up 13% on a reported basis and 15% in constant currency, exceeding ****** ysts expectations of around €713-715 million. Meanwhile, adjusted earnings per share of €0.74 happened to be somewhat lower than the €0.76 consensus, though this fact did little to dampen enthusiasm given the report's overall strength.
The headline change was direction. Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK) now targets fiscal 2026 revenue growth of 15% on a constant-currency basis, up from its previous range of 13% to 15%, putting the company at the upper end of its own previous objective rather than just reiterating it. Management also increased its adjusted EBITDA forecast to at least €710 million, up from a previous floor of €700 million, and now expects reported revenue to be at the high end of the €2.30 billion-€2.35 billion range.
According to Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK), the reason for some of the strength is simple: full-price demand from affluent buyers who haven't reduced their discretionary spending in the same manner that the broader consumer has. Strong pricing power and brand loyalty helped shield companies catering to wealthier customers from the broader spending pullback affecting much of the apparel and footwear sector, and Birkenstock's results reflect this across all regions it operates in, with the Americas growing 14%, EMEA 15%, and Asia-Pacific rising the fastest at 23%, all in constant currency terms.
Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK) has also carefully managed its balance sheet during this period of strength. On June 30, the company executed an accelerated share buyback program of €230 million, decreasing its outstanding share count by about 6 million shares. The move helped enhance per-share earnings growth, with adjusted EPS rising 19% year-over-year.
#million #birk #company
Shares of the German footwear manufacturer rose up to 20% on August 13 after the company published fiscal third-quarter earnings that exceeded expectations and prompted management to improve its full-year guidance. Revenue for the quarter came in at €720 million (about $829 million), up 13% on a reported basis and 15% in constant currency, exceeding ****** ysts expectations of around €713-715 million. Meanwhile, adjusted earnings per share of €0.74 happened to be somewhat lower than the €0.76 consensus, though this fact did little to dampen enthusiasm given the report's overall strength.
The headline change was direction. Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK) now targets fiscal 2026 revenue growth of 15% on a constant-currency basis, up from its previous range of 13% to 15%, putting the company at the upper end of its own previous objective rather than just reiterating it. Management also increased its adjusted EBITDA forecast to at least €710 million, up from a previous floor of €700 million, and now expects reported revenue to be at the high end of the €2.30 billion-€2.35 billion range.
According to Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK), the reason for some of the strength is simple: full-price demand from affluent buyers who haven't reduced their discretionary spending in the same manner that the broader consumer has. Strong pricing power and brand loyalty helped shield companies catering to wealthier customers from the broader spending pullback affecting much of the apparel and footwear sector, and Birkenstock's results reflect this across all regions it operates in, with the Americas growing 14%, EMEA 15%, and Asia-Pacific rising the fastest at 23%, all in constant currency terms.
Birkenstock Holding plc (NYSE:BIRK) has also carefully managed its balance sheet during this period of strength. On June 30, the company executed an accelerated share buyback program of €230 million, decreasing its outstanding share count by about 6 million shares. The move helped enhance per-share earnings growth, with adjusted EPS rising 19% year-over-year.
#million #birk #company
14 hours ago
September S&P 500 E-Mini futures (ESU26) are down -0.15%, and September Nasdaq 100 E-Mini futures (NQU26) are down -0.66% this morning as rising oil prices and bond yields weigh on investor sentiment ahead of crucial U.S. producer inflation data and earnings from debt-loaded AI hyperscaler Oracle.
Oil prices extended their advance on Thursday as escalating attacks between the U.S. and Iran risked prolonging disruptions to energy flows in the Middle East. Brent crude rose above $103 a barrel, while WTI crude climbed above $99 a barrel. A senior Iranian official said on Wednesday that Tehran has no plans to back down in the face of an American naval blockade and will intensify its strikes if the U.S. continues attacking its territory. Also, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard warned on Wednesday of additional restrictions on shipping around the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said the war with Iran would not end until after the November midterm elections.
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#Iran
Oil prices extended their advance on Thursday as escalating attacks between the U.S. and Iran risked prolonging disruptions to energy flows in the Middle East. Brent crude rose above $103 a barrel, while WTI crude climbed above $99 a barrel. A senior Iranian official said on Wednesday that Tehran has no plans to back down in the face of an American naval blockade and will intensify its strikes if the U.S. continues attacking its territory. Also, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard warned on Wednesday of additional restrictions on shipping around the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said the war with Iran would not end until after the November midterm elections.
'Not Tens Of Billions, But Tens Of Trillions': Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Says AI Is Like the New Electricity and the Scale Is Unlike Any Tech in History
What It Means for MSFT Stock Investors as Microsoft Switches to 2 Business Segments
RKLB Stock Jumps as Rocket Lab Debuts New Solar Cell for ****** e
#Iran
15 hours ago
For months, rumors about influencer Charli D'Amelio's relationship with her family have been circulating online, and a recent appearance on Quenlin Blackwell's "Feeding Starving Celebrities" video series seems to have added more fuel to that fire.
In the video uploaded on Sept. 5, D'Amelio, the second-most followed TikToker with close to 160 million followers, starts the episode by surprising Blackwell with a pair of sweatpants from her merch store. As they're talking about her many business ventures, Blackwell then asks her how much money she made from her merch. "Mmm, ain't that the question," D'Amelio responds as she looks into the camera and laughs as she adds, "Wouldn't I like to know."
This comes three months after People confirmed that she is no longer involved in the family's popcorn brand, Be Happy Snacks, and the publication reported that the severed ties are allegedly a result of a financial dispute between her and her parents, Marc and Heidi D'Amelio. A representative for the brand told TMZ that her decision to bow out of the family business was "a formal amicable separation from D'Amelio Brands and D'Amelio Family LLC that everyone agreed to at the time."
TMZ also reported that the separation began in March 2025 and was made official in November 2025, meaning she was out of the company for more than six months before the news broke.
USA TODAY reached out to representatives for Charli D'Amelio and her family for this story, but did not hear back.
#blackwell #brand
In the video uploaded on Sept. 5, D'Amelio, the second-most followed TikToker with close to 160 million followers, starts the episode by surprising Blackwell with a pair of sweatpants from her merch store. As they're talking about her many business ventures, Blackwell then asks her how much money she made from her merch. "Mmm, ain't that the question," D'Amelio responds as she looks into the camera and laughs as she adds, "Wouldn't I like to know."
This comes three months after People confirmed that she is no longer involved in the family's popcorn brand, Be Happy Snacks, and the publication reported that the severed ties are allegedly a result of a financial dispute between her and her parents, Marc and Heidi D'Amelio. A representative for the brand told TMZ that her decision to bow out of the family business was "a formal amicable separation from D'Amelio Brands and D'Amelio Family LLC that everyone agreed to at the time."
TMZ also reported that the separation began in March 2025 and was made official in November 2025, meaning she was out of the company for more than six months before the news broke.
USA TODAY reached out to representatives for Charli D'Amelio and her family for this story, but did not hear back.
#blackwell #brand
16 hours ago
The High Line has hosted forests, billboards, giant pigeons and enough public art to fill a small museum. Its newest resident, however, may be the flashiest yet: a monumental golden "snake" curling through the park in the Meatpacking District.
Bulgari has unveiled auruBOROS—Urban Memory and Collective Dream, a 33-foot pneumatic sculpture created by Berlin-based art and architecture duo Plastique Fantastique. The free installation is now open above Little West 12th Street, near The Standard, High Line, and will remain on view through September 20.
The work resembles a gleaming serpent or double helix, with massive coils rising from beneath the elevated park and wrapping around its concrete supports. Visitors can walk among and through the reflective forms, which shift in appearance as sunlight, shadows and passing New Yorkers bounce off the metallic surface.
The sculpture's name combines aurum, the Latin word for gold, with ouroboros, the ancient image of a serpent eating its own tail. Its location also fits the installation's themes of memory and transformation: the High Line, after all, turned an abandoned freight railway into one of the city's most popular public **** es.
Created by Plastique Fantastique artists Marco Canevacci and Yena Young, auruBOROS is Bulgari's first public art installation in the United States. The duo is known for large-scale inflatable environments, including a giant ring that encircled a Paris footbridge during Nuit Blanche in 2023 and an immersive installation at the 2019 Venice Biennale.
#plastique
Bulgari has unveiled auruBOROS—Urban Memory and Collective Dream, a 33-foot pneumatic sculpture created by Berlin-based art and architecture duo Plastique Fantastique. The free installation is now open above Little West 12th Street, near The Standard, High Line, and will remain on view through September 20.
The work resembles a gleaming serpent or double helix, with massive coils rising from beneath the elevated park and wrapping around its concrete supports. Visitors can walk among and through the reflective forms, which shift in appearance as sunlight, shadows and passing New Yorkers bounce off the metallic surface.
The sculpture's name combines aurum, the Latin word for gold, with ouroboros, the ancient image of a serpent eating its own tail. Its location also fits the installation's themes of memory and transformation: the High Line, after all, turned an abandoned freight railway into one of the city's most popular public **** es.
Created by Plastique Fantastique artists Marco Canevacci and Yena Young, auruBOROS is Bulgari's first public art installation in the United States. The duo is known for large-scale inflatable environments, including a giant ring that encircled a Paris footbridge during Nuit Blanche in 2023 and an immersive installation at the 2019 Venice Biennale.
#plastique
16 hours ago
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Gold can act as a hedge against inflation, but it doesn't reliably rise whenever inflation does. Some investors use gold to help preserve purchasing power as prices rise, but inflation is only one of several factors that can influence gold prices.
If you've researched gold as an investment, you've probably come across financial experts **** erting that gold is a hedge against inflation. Understanding what that actually means — and what it doesn't — can help put gold's role in an investment portfolio into perspective.
An inflation hedge is an investment or strategy intended to help offset the loss of purchasing power caused by rising prices.
As inflation rises, each dollar buys a little less than it did before. For example, imagine a cart of groceries that costs $100 today. If those same groceries cost $105 next year, your $100 no longer buys as much as it did before.
#Gold #Help #doesn 't #power
Gold can act as a hedge against inflation, but it doesn't reliably rise whenever inflation does. Some investors use gold to help preserve purchasing power as prices rise, but inflation is only one of several factors that can influence gold prices.
If you've researched gold as an investment, you've probably come across financial experts **** erting that gold is a hedge against inflation. Understanding what that actually means — and what it doesn't — can help put gold's role in an investment portfolio into perspective.
An inflation hedge is an investment or strategy intended to help offset the loss of purchasing power caused by rising prices.
As inflation rises, each dollar buys a little less than it did before. For example, imagine a cart of groceries that costs $100 today. If those same groceries cost $105 next year, your $100 no longer buys as much as it did before.
#Gold #Help #doesn 't #power
17 hours ago
Alexandra Eala aced her New York Fashion Week debut on Thursday night and during the day on Friday with appearances at Tory Burch and Michael Kors' respective spring 2027 ready-to-wear presentations.
The rising Filipino tennis star made her official debut at Tory Burch's show on Thursday night. Sporting a long-sleeve jacket in bold strawberry red with black ****** ons running down the front placket, the look was twee and tailored.
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#york #fashion #thursday
The rising Filipino tennis star made her official debut at Tory Burch's show on Thursday night. Sporting a long-sleeve jacket in bold strawberry red with black ****** ons running down the front placket, the look was twee and tailored.
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#york #fashion #thursday
18 hours ago
With 2.5 weeks remaining in the regular season, those in the fantasy baseball playoffs should be focused on adding players with favorable schedules in the coming days. The list this week includes hitters to stream this weekend (Henry Bolte, Jeff McNeil, Colt Keith) as well as those who should be added by Monday (Ty France, Mickey Moniak, Cole Carrigg).
The same can be said on the pitching side, as those who need a weekend streamer can skip to the bottom of this article.
Ty France, 1B, Padres, 31%: France has been one of baseball's best hitters in the second half, batting .324 with a .937 OPS. Unfortunately, he remains on waivers in many leagues, as managers opt to chase an influx of exciting rookies rather than adding a boring veteran. But that should change over the weekend, as France and his teammates will open next week with four games at Coors Field against a Rockies pitching staff that ranks last in baseball with a 5.50 ERA. Managers in deeper formats could also consider Jake Cronenworth (6%), who has hit second in the lineup of late, or catcher Luis Campusano (1%), who is working as a DH often enough to keep him in the regular lineup.
Mickey Moniak, OF, Rockies, 26%: Moniak has some similarities to France, as a boring veteran who is having his productive season overshadowed by a constant stream of youngsters on the waiver wire. The 28-year-old has been terrific at home (.957 OPS) and against right-handers (.835 OPS) this season, which makes him a potential league-winner next week when the Rockies play seven games at their hitter-friendly home park, including five versus right-handed starters. Those who cannot add Moniak can consider his teammate, Cole Carrigg (15%).
Henry Bolte, OF, Athletics, 30%: Bolte is the fastest runner in baseball and has a bit of pop, which has made him the Athletics regular leadoff hitter and one of baseball's most explosive players. He is batting .320 since the beginning of August, and during September he has already accumulated four homers and five steals. Like many Athletics hitters, Bolte has fared best at his offense-inducing home park, which is where he will play this weekend. It helps that the series will come against the Mariners, who surprising rank 28th in baseball with a 5.39 ERA since the All-Star break.
#moniak #Rockies #athletics #week
The same can be said on the pitching side, as those who need a weekend streamer can skip to the bottom of this article.
Ty France, 1B, Padres, 31%: France has been one of baseball's best hitters in the second half, batting .324 with a .937 OPS. Unfortunately, he remains on waivers in many leagues, as managers opt to chase an influx of exciting rookies rather than adding a boring veteran. But that should change over the weekend, as France and his teammates will open next week with four games at Coors Field against a Rockies pitching staff that ranks last in baseball with a 5.50 ERA. Managers in deeper formats could also consider Jake Cronenworth (6%), who has hit second in the lineup of late, or catcher Luis Campusano (1%), who is working as a DH often enough to keep him in the regular lineup.
Mickey Moniak, OF, Rockies, 26%: Moniak has some similarities to France, as a boring veteran who is having his productive season overshadowed by a constant stream of youngsters on the waiver wire. The 28-year-old has been terrific at home (.957 OPS) and against right-handers (.835 OPS) this season, which makes him a potential league-winner next week when the Rockies play seven games at their hitter-friendly home park, including five versus right-handed starters. Those who cannot add Moniak can consider his teammate, Cole Carrigg (15%).
Henry Bolte, OF, Athletics, 30%: Bolte is the fastest runner in baseball and has a bit of pop, which has made him the Athletics regular leadoff hitter and one of baseball's most explosive players. He is batting .320 since the beginning of August, and during September he has already accumulated four homers and five steals. Like many Athletics hitters, Bolte has fared best at his offense-inducing home park, which is where he will play this weekend. It helps that the series will come against the Mariners, who surprising rank 28th in baseball with a 5.39 ERA since the All-Star break.
#moniak #Rockies #athletics #week
18 hours ago
Five years into her engagement to Danny Fujikawa, Kate Hudson has a surprisingly relatable reason for why she's still not ready to walk down the aisle.
On the September 8 episode of her Sibling Revelry podcast with brother Oliver Hudson, she openly discussed the issues she's having with organizing a wedding to her long-time fiancé. And it's not about cold feet whatsoever.
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"I still am not married. I'm just engaged, and I keep thinking about the wedding, like, 'What are we gonna do?'" Hudson explained. "And then every time we start thinking about who we have to invite, Danny's like, 'I just want a small wedding.' I'm like, 'Our family alone is like 50 people.' There's a million kids. There's a million uncles and aunts and cousins."
#surprisingly #still #time #million
On the September 8 episode of her Sibling Revelry podcast with brother Oliver Hudson, she openly discussed the issues she's having with organizing a wedding to her long-time fiancé. And it's not about cold feet whatsoever.
More from SheKnows
Gwyneth Paltrow Reportedly 'Approves' of Apple Martin's Boyfriend for This Surprisingly Un-Hollywood Reason
"I still am not married. I'm just engaged, and I keep thinking about the wedding, like, 'What are we gonna do?'" Hudson explained. "And then every time we start thinking about who we have to invite, Danny's like, 'I just want a small wedding.' I'm like, 'Our family alone is like 50 people.' There's a million kids. There's a million uncles and aunts and cousins."
#surprisingly #still #time #million
19 hours ago
Princess Catharina-Amalia has traded palace surroundings for naval waters as she begins the latest chapter of her military training.
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#traded
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#traded
21 hours ago
U.S. consumer prices rose 0.4% from the month before in August, the Labor Department estimated Sept. 11, in line with forecasters' expectations.
A spike in gas prices drove the increase, rising 3.9% over the month as the Iran war further limited the global oil supply. Over the year, prices for all items rose 3.4%, matching July's pace. That was still enough to surpass workers' paychecks, which rose on average 3.1% over the same period.
After reaching a peak of 9.1% in 2022, year-over-year inflation had made its way back to 2.4% at the start of 2026. It jumped to 3.4% in March driven by rising oil and gas prices following the start of the war. After hitting 4.2% in May, it slowed to 3.5% in June and to 3.4% in July.
It, along with the Federal Reserve's preferred measure of inflation, the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index, remain above the central bank's 2% annual target.
The Fed typically raises its benchmark for interest rates across the country to help tame inflation and lowers it to stimulate the job market. After Fed Chair Kevin Warsh said Aug. 28 policymakers' focus should be on rising prices and U.S. employers added a surprising 162,000 jobs last month, markets are betting on a rate hike after the Fed's next meeting on Sept. 16. However, one is not guaranteed.
#rising
A spike in gas prices drove the increase, rising 3.9% over the month as the Iran war further limited the global oil supply. Over the year, prices for all items rose 3.4%, matching July's pace. That was still enough to surpass workers' paychecks, which rose on average 3.1% over the same period.
After reaching a peak of 9.1% in 2022, year-over-year inflation had made its way back to 2.4% at the start of 2026. It jumped to 3.4% in March driven by rising oil and gas prices following the start of the war. After hitting 4.2% in May, it slowed to 3.5% in June and to 3.4% in July.
It, along with the Federal Reserve's preferred measure of inflation, the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index, remain above the central bank's 2% annual target.
The Fed typically raises its benchmark for interest rates across the country to help tame inflation and lowers it to stimulate the job market. After Fed Chair Kevin Warsh said Aug. 28 policymakers' focus should be on rising prices and U.S. employers added a surprising 162,000 jobs last month, markets are betting on a rate hike after the Fed's next meeting on Sept. 16. However, one is not guaranteed.
#rising
24 hours ago
For its Q3 FY26, ABM Industries Inc. (NYSE:ABM) posted a record topline figure of $2.3 billion. With year-over-year acquisitive growth and organic expansion of 2.1% each, the total jump in sales was 4.2%. The company's adjusted EBITDA for the quarter climbed 11% to $139.6 million, compared to Q3 FY25. Adjusted net income stood at $61.5 million, exhibiting a 19% growth and translating into an adjusted diluted EPS of $1.04. ABM generated operating cash flows for the third quarter totaling $146.8 million, while free cash flow stood at $128.4 million.
Dmitry Kalinovsky/Shutterstock.com
Third quarter print revealed that majority of the topline growth was concentrated across the company's Aviation, and Manufacturing & Distribution (M&D) segments, which expanded 12.5% and 17.6% respectively. Performance within the M&D segment was driven by strong technology market trends, with further support coming from ABM's acquisition of WGNstar. Aviation segment got a boost from robust demand for air travel and healthy progress around the company's newly secured London Heathrow contract.
Prudent cost management resulted in around $3 million reduction in ongoing corporate costs compared to the previous year. Overall growth in bottom line can be attributed to higher operating profits across most segments, a lower tax bill, and cut down in corporate overhead. Some of these were offset by rising interest burden due to the financing of the WGNstar transaction. The company's share buyback initiative was another factor that led to a 25% rise in diluted EPS for the quarter.
The Education segment's revenue held steady. Business & Industry (B&I) slipped 2.6%, largely in line with expectations, due to the previously disclosed loss of a major UK client and ongoing weakness along the US west coast. Technical Solutions (ATS) growth was hampered by certain deferred projects.
#Growth #adjusted #topline
Dmitry Kalinovsky/Shutterstock.com
Third quarter print revealed that majority of the topline growth was concentrated across the company's Aviation, and Manufacturing & Distribution (M&D) segments, which expanded 12.5% and 17.6% respectively. Performance within the M&D segment was driven by strong technology market trends, with further support coming from ABM's acquisition of WGNstar. Aviation segment got a boost from robust demand for air travel and healthy progress around the company's newly secured London Heathrow contract.
Prudent cost management resulted in around $3 million reduction in ongoing corporate costs compared to the previous year. Overall growth in bottom line can be attributed to higher operating profits across most segments, a lower tax bill, and cut down in corporate overhead. Some of these were offset by rising interest burden due to the financing of the WGNstar transaction. The company's share buyback initiative was another factor that led to a 25% rise in diluted EPS for the quarter.
The Education segment's revenue held steady. Business & Industry (B&I) slipped 2.6%, largely in line with expectations, due to the previously disclosed loss of a major UK client and ongoing weakness along the US west coast. Technical Solutions (ATS) growth was hampered by certain deferred projects.
#Growth #adjusted #topline
24 hours ago
The U.S. Treasury Department said Wednesday that it plans to buy $6 billion of government debt this week as part of an effort to reduce long-term borrowing costs and maintain liquidity in the bond market. The buyback operation, which triples the normal level of $2 billion per week, will continue at a higher level moving forward, Treasury said, with at least $4 billion in debt purchased each week for the next few months, and perhaps longer.
This week's buyback, which is scheduled for Thursday, will focus on 10- and 20-year Treasury bonds. Yields have been rising on those bonds, along with other durations, as investors confront the reality of persistent inflation, massive investment in artificial intelligence and rising government debt levels around the world.
Treasury Secretary Bessent said Tuesday that the buyback operation is intended to reduce the "fever that was building" in the bond markets.
The markets did not respond as hoped. Treasury yields rose after the announcement Wednesday, with the yield on long-duration bonds rising as much as 5 basis points in volatile trading, though yields fell back in later trading.
"It doesn't seem like the patient's feeling much better," Adam Josephson of Sakonnet Research wrote in a note, per Investopedia.
#week #rising #government
This week's buyback, which is scheduled for Thursday, will focus on 10- and 20-year Treasury bonds. Yields have been rising on those bonds, along with other durations, as investors confront the reality of persistent inflation, massive investment in artificial intelligence and rising government debt levels around the world.
Treasury Secretary Bessent said Tuesday that the buyback operation is intended to reduce the "fever that was building" in the bond markets.
The markets did not respond as hoped. Treasury yields rose after the announcement Wednesday, with the yield on long-duration bonds rising as much as 5 basis points in volatile trading, though yields fell back in later trading.
"It doesn't seem like the patient's feeling much better," Adam Josephson of Sakonnet Research wrote in a note, per Investopedia.
#week #rising #government
1 day ago
Eric Hansotia, CEO, Chair, and President of AGCO, discusses conditions in the agriculture equipment business. Hansotia notes that the agriculture sector faces rising costs, framing the segment around input expenses and their impact on farming and equipment demand. He speaks with Romaine Bostick on "The Close."
#president
#president
1 day ago
Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap offers no recurring annual shopping window, so health conditions can permanently lock policyholders into higher premiums.
The one-time federal Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts just six months starting at age 65; after that, most states allow medical underwriting.
Never cancel an existing Medigap policy before a replacement is confirmed in writing, since a declined application leaves the original coverage intact.
Are you ahead, or behind on retirement? SmartAsset's free tool can match you with a financial advisor in minutes to help you answer that today. Each advisor has been carefully vetted, and must act in your best interests. Don't waste another minute; learn more here.
A 72-year-old in Ohio opens a December rate notice and finds that her Medigap Plan G premium is rising again in January, the fourth increase in four years. Her broker finds a competitor charging $40 less each month.
#finds #period
The one-time federal Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts just six months starting at age 65; after that, most states allow medical underwriting.
Never cancel an existing Medigap policy before a replacement is confirmed in writing, since a declined application leaves the original coverage intact.
Are you ahead, or behind on retirement? SmartAsset's free tool can match you with a financial advisor in minutes to help you answer that today. Each advisor has been carefully vetted, and must act in your best interests. Don't waste another minute; learn more here.
A 72-year-old in Ohio opens a December rate notice and finds that her Medigap Plan G premium is rising again in January, the fourth increase in four years. Her broker finds a competitor charging $40 less each month.
#finds #period
1 day ago
Casey's General Stores Inc. (NASDAQ:CASY), the third-largest convenience chain and fifth-biggest pizza brand within the U.S., released its first quarter results, showing early traction from the company's recently announced three-year strategic plan. For the recent quarter, inside same-store sales jumped 3.2% year-over-year, and 7.7% on a two-year stacked basis, leading to inside margins of 42.2%. Total inside gross profit stood at $749.8 million, rising 6.3% compared to the same period last year. The company posted net income of $273.7 million, exhibiting a 27.1% increase relative to Q1 last year. This translated into a 27.7% jump in diluted EPS which rose to $7.37.
Foodio/Shutterstock.com
Casey's is building on its three-year roadmap which rests on three core pillars. These include acceleration of growth across food and beverage, scaling up its store footprint, and elevating its operational efficiency.
Food remains a major growth enabler for the broader business, with prepared foods and nonalcoholic beverages currently driving the expansion of inside sales. Wings sales within Des Moines market also posted a 20% year-over-year sales jump. This positions the company to benefit from a larger opportunity of ramping up the offerings across roughly 3,000 stores, and cements Casey's reputation as a food destination.
The retailer also plans to expand its operations with at least 400 stores through a mix of acquisitions, and ground-up development of new stores. The integration of Fikes Wholesale, owner of CEFCO Convenience Stores and Casey's largest acquisition to date, demonstrates its capacity to expand through dealmaking. Management said the integration remains ahead of schedule.
#stores #largest
Foodio/Shutterstock.com
Casey's is building on its three-year roadmap which rests on three core pillars. These include acceleration of growth across food and beverage, scaling up its store footprint, and elevating its operational efficiency.
Food remains a major growth enabler for the broader business, with prepared foods and nonalcoholic beverages currently driving the expansion of inside sales. Wings sales within Des Moines market also posted a 20% year-over-year sales jump. This positions the company to benefit from a larger opportunity of ramping up the offerings across roughly 3,000 stores, and cements Casey's reputation as a food destination.
The retailer also plans to expand its operations with at least 400 stores through a mix of acquisitions, and ground-up development of new stores. The integration of Fikes Wholesale, owner of CEFCO Convenience Stores and Casey's largest acquisition to date, demonstrates its capacity to expand through dealmaking. Management said the integration remains ahead of schedule.
#stores #largest
1 day ago
Dell Technologies (DELL) shares have surged more than 316% so far in 2026, fueled by robust demand for AI infrastructure, increased enterprise investment in modernizing IT systems, and continued expansion of its customer base.
The company is also benefiting from strong demand for its AI-optimized servers, and the momentum is likely sustainable in the coming quarters. At the same time, rising AI demand is also driving demand for traditional servers and networking equipment, further strengthening Dell's long-term growth prospects.
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#tens
The company is also benefiting from strong demand for its AI-optimized servers, and the momentum is likely sustainable in the coming quarters. At the same time, rising AI demand is also driving demand for traditional servers and networking equipment, further strengthening Dell's long-term growth prospects.
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#tens
1 day ago
On August 11, Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) announced that its Medicaid plan, Humana Healthy Horizons in Indiana, is collaborating with HealthStream, Inc. (NASDAQ:HSTM). The partnership expands access to workforce training for caregivers, aiming to recruit and retain talent in rural and underserved communities. While one provides healthcare coverage and the other builds the software to train healthcare workers, both companies are capitalizing on the industry's critical focus: solving caregiving shortages and optimizing healthcare delivery.
HealthStream emerges as the operationally cleaner, higher-growth performer, while Humana continues to navigate a more complex transition marked by regulatory and profitability pressures. Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) reported Q2 2026 GAAP EPS of $5.73 and adjusted EPS of $7.61, with an Insurance segment GAAP benefit ratio of 91.2%. The company reaffirmed its full-year adjusted EPS guidance of at least $9.00 but lowered its FY 2026 GAAP EPS forecast to at least $6.52 from $8.36, reflecting non-cash adjustments and value creation charges. Although individual Medicare Advantage membership is expected to grow approximately 25% in 2026, lower Star Ratings remain a significant drag on profitability.
HealthStream, Inc. (NASDAQ:HSTM), meanwhile, delivered record Q2 2026 results, with revenue rising 12.5% year over year to $83.7 million. Operating income increased 41.4% to $8.3 million, while net income climbed 23.8% to $6.7 million, or $0.23 per diluted share. Adjusted EBITDA also increased 16.9% to $20.6 million. The company's debt-free balance sheet, supported by $66.7 million in cash and cash equivalents, further strengthens its financial flexibility. While Humana operates at substantially greater scale, HealthStream is demonstrating stronger operational leverage, margin expansion, and balance sheet flexibility.
Humana's bull case is supported by strong Medicare Advantage membership growth, with the company targeting a 25% increase in 2026, alongside strategic expansion of its CenterWell primary care business and state Medicaid footprint, including its recent Illinois win. These initiatives could strengthen its long-term recovery and expand its addressable market. However, the bear case centers on elevated medical benefit ratios, which reached 91.2% in Q2, as well as regulatory pressures in Medicaid and continued Medicare Star Ratings headwinds. These factors could further squeeze margins and weigh on net earnings.
#healthcare #year
HealthStream emerges as the operationally cleaner, higher-growth performer, while Humana continues to navigate a more complex transition marked by regulatory and profitability pressures. Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) reported Q2 2026 GAAP EPS of $5.73 and adjusted EPS of $7.61, with an Insurance segment GAAP benefit ratio of 91.2%. The company reaffirmed its full-year adjusted EPS guidance of at least $9.00 but lowered its FY 2026 GAAP EPS forecast to at least $6.52 from $8.36, reflecting non-cash adjustments and value creation charges. Although individual Medicare Advantage membership is expected to grow approximately 25% in 2026, lower Star Ratings remain a significant drag on profitability.
HealthStream, Inc. (NASDAQ:HSTM), meanwhile, delivered record Q2 2026 results, with revenue rising 12.5% year over year to $83.7 million. Operating income increased 41.4% to $8.3 million, while net income climbed 23.8% to $6.7 million, or $0.23 per diluted share. Adjusted EBITDA also increased 16.9% to $20.6 million. The company's debt-free balance sheet, supported by $66.7 million in cash and cash equivalents, further strengthens its financial flexibility. While Humana operates at substantially greater scale, HealthStream is demonstrating stronger operational leverage, margin expansion, and balance sheet flexibility.
Humana's bull case is supported by strong Medicare Advantage membership growth, with the company targeting a 25% increase in 2026, alongside strategic expansion of its CenterWell primary care business and state Medicaid footprint, including its recent Illinois win. These initiatives could strengthen its long-term recovery and expand its addressable market. However, the bear case centers on elevated medical benefit ratios, which reached 91.2% in Q2, as well as regulatory pressures in Medicaid and continued Medicare Star Ratings headwinds. These factors could further squeeze margins and weigh on net earnings.
#healthcare #year
1 day ago
During a September 8 episode of Mad Money, Jim Cramer examined the broader aerospace ecosystem following GE Aerospace's (NYSE:GE) nearly $12 billion agreement to acquire castings specialist Consolidated Precision Products (CPP). Commenting on the strategic importance of supply chain control and the enduring strength of commercial and defense aviation despite rising oil prices, Cramer stated:
I still believe in the data center, but I also want to open your eyes to other opportunities. This morning, for example, GE Aerospace spent nearly $12 billion to buy a castings company called Consolidated Precision Products to integrate this key segment into its supply chain. It's vital for both commercial aircraft and particularly defense, both of which are booming. Now, on a day where oil's up, you might not want to focus on anything airline related, but travel's been booming the whole time, the whole time the Iranian war's been going on. This acquisition will pay off quickly for GE, making it more likely that they can accelerate production. This is also good news, therefore, for Boeing, a huge customer of GE that needs to boost its production speed.
GE is relatively close to its highs, deservedly so. Boeing? Nowhere near its high. Yet the order book is full. Last week, there was this negative article about how Boeing is being hurt by the problem-filled Spirit AeroSystems acquisition. It made that one two years ago. But that actually had to be done because Boeing, like GE Aerospace, needs to get better control of its supply chain. Aha, you say, who needs that kind of problem? Boeing just reported its slowest deliveries in 4 months. I come back and say, wait a second. First, the problems from the Spirit deal are now behind them. You know what? The story is actually old news.
Plus, CEO Kelly Ortberg has made it clear that orders would be lumpy. I knew that. And look, I know the high price of oil, particularly jet fuel, is bad news for the airlines. But the higher price of fuel also makes these new engines and airplanes far more valuable than before. Why? They're way more energy efficient. It's a good situation that has nothing to do with the data center. It does require more, better tech that AI can help with.
GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) and The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) represent two distinct pillars of the aerospace manufacturing ecosystem, operating at massive commercial scale. GE Aerospace reported second-quarter revenue of $13.3 billion, up 21% year-over-year, driven by strong commercial engine services and record internal shop visit output. Its total order backlog extends past $210 billion, supported by sustained airline demand for propulsion systems and aftermarket maintenance.
#boeing #chain #consolidated
I still believe in the data center, but I also want to open your eyes to other opportunities. This morning, for example, GE Aerospace spent nearly $12 billion to buy a castings company called Consolidated Precision Products to integrate this key segment into its supply chain. It's vital for both commercial aircraft and particularly defense, both of which are booming. Now, on a day where oil's up, you might not want to focus on anything airline related, but travel's been booming the whole time, the whole time the Iranian war's been going on. This acquisition will pay off quickly for GE, making it more likely that they can accelerate production. This is also good news, therefore, for Boeing, a huge customer of GE that needs to boost its production speed.
GE is relatively close to its highs, deservedly so. Boeing? Nowhere near its high. Yet the order book is full. Last week, there was this negative article about how Boeing is being hurt by the problem-filled Spirit AeroSystems acquisition. It made that one two years ago. But that actually had to be done because Boeing, like GE Aerospace, needs to get better control of its supply chain. Aha, you say, who needs that kind of problem? Boeing just reported its slowest deliveries in 4 months. I come back and say, wait a second. First, the problems from the Spirit deal are now behind them. You know what? The story is actually old news.
Plus, CEO Kelly Ortberg has made it clear that orders would be lumpy. I knew that. And look, I know the high price of oil, particularly jet fuel, is bad news for the airlines. But the higher price of fuel also makes these new engines and airplanes far more valuable than before. Why? They're way more energy efficient. It's a good situation that has nothing to do with the data center. It does require more, better tech that AI can help with.
GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) and The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) represent two distinct pillars of the aerospace manufacturing ecosystem, operating at massive commercial scale. GE Aerospace reported second-quarter revenue of $13.3 billion, up 21% year-over-year, driven by strong commercial engine services and record internal shop visit output. Its total order backlog extends past $210 billion, supported by sustained airline demand for propulsion systems and aftermarket maintenance.
#boeing #chain #consolidated
1 day ago
Median pay raises outpaced inflation year over year in all 56 metros ADP Research tracks.
Workers in Buffalo, New York, had the highest growth in total wages, with a 6.4% year-over-year increase.
Construction workers have consistently received higher pay raises than workers in any other industry this year.
American paychecks have outpaced rising prices this past year in every city ADP tracks.
Workers in Buffalo, New York, had the largest pay raises among the 56 cities, according to ADP Research, the payroll processing company's ******* ytics arm. In August, wages for Buffalo workers grew by 6.4% from the same time last year. ADP's figures are for gross pay, which includes overtime, bonuses, commissions, and tips.
#buffalo #york #tracks #wages
Workers in Buffalo, New York, had the highest growth in total wages, with a 6.4% year-over-year increase.
Construction workers have consistently received higher pay raises than workers in any other industry this year.
American paychecks have outpaced rising prices this past year in every city ADP tracks.
Workers in Buffalo, New York, had the largest pay raises among the 56 cities, according to ADP Research, the payroll processing company's ******* ytics arm. In August, wages for Buffalo workers grew by 6.4% from the same time last year. ADP's figures are for gross pay, which includes overtime, bonuses, commissions, and tips.
#buffalo #york #tracks #wages
