Here are the top performances in football from last week. Please email your top performers each week to will.aldamhearstmediact.com.
The senior completed 20 of 29 passes for 346 yards and five touchdowns in Plainville's 43-6 victory over Rocky Hill.
Hunter Ballai and Luke Moneyhon, Staples: Each intercepted a pass in the Wreckers' 20-0 victory over Darien. Moneyhon made a diving catch for his interception.
Carmine Balogh, Xavier: The defensive back intercepted two passes, including one in the end zone just before halftime, in a 28-0 win over Foran.
Abner Barillas-Rivera, Derby: The senior quarterback threw three touchdown passes and ran for a 59-yard score in Derby's 50-36 loss to GNH.

#here #please

Buying a stock in the hopes of holding it for 20 years or longer can be a difficult task. Warren Buffett likes to say his favorite holding period is "forever," but his trading history shows he has sold holdings, even after owning them for decades.
Knowing that, investors should look for holdings with the potential to survive and thrive for decades. Fortunately, investors have plenty of options, and these three well-established consumer staples stocks should stand out.
Missed AI's "Act 1"? Act 2 Could Be 14x Bigger. Most investors think they missed the AI boat because they didn't buy Nvidia in 2005. But according to our ****** ysts, we're only at the end of "Act 1"—the R&D phase. "Act 2" is the global rollout. Continue »
The public knows PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP) best for its flagship cola. Nonetheless, the company owns numerous well-known beverage and food brands, including Gatorade, Mountain Dew, Tostitos, and Quaker.
Its stock had suffered in recent years as the public turned against unhealthy beverages and packaged foods. PepsiCo has since pivoted, emphasizing healthier ingredients in its products and buying brands such as Siete to bolster this reputation.

#investors #holdings

HDV has outpaced VYM by nearly 9 points year-to-date in 2026 while paying a 3.34% yield versus VYM's 2.20%.
HDV's 75-stock tilt toward energy, healthcare, and staples drives its 2026 edge but can lag equally in growth-led markets.
Taxable investors switching from VYM should redirect new contributions into HDV rather than selling lots with large embedded capital gains.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
If you own the Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (NYSEARCA:VYM), you own it for a good reason. VYM tracks the FTSE High Dividend Yield Index, holds roughly 500 above-average payers, and delivers a broad, cheap slice of dividend-paying American stocks. It is one of the most widely held income ETFs on the market, and for buy-and-hold investors who want a diversified basket of yielders without thinking too hard about it, VYM has done its job. But in 2026, VYM is losing ground to a much smaller, more concentrated peer from BlackRock that pays a higher yield and follows a very different rulebook.

#same

Consumer confidence decreased in August, according to The Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index. This was the second straight month in decline. If September's report shows the same trend, investors might start looking for stocks that can prove resilient through tough economic times.
Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) fits the bill about as well as a company can. Let's have a look.
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 »
P&G has raised its dividend for 70 consecutive years. Not many businesses can claim that. Among Dividend Kings, or companies that have raised dividends for 50 years straight, only P&G and five other members qualify for that ultra-elite group. The dividend is also well-funded, as P&G's earnings per share and free cash flow comfortably exceed the amount needed. The company's payout ratio is around 64%.
P&G is diversified within its products. Everything consumers need, ranging from diapers to toothpaste, razors, and detergents, is held within its portfolio of everyday household staples. These are products that people will continue to buy regardless of macroeconomic conditions.

#same

Aristotle International Equity Fund, sub-advised by Aristotle Capital Management, LLC, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Global equity markets reached record highs in Q2, with the MSCI ACWI Index rising 14.93%, while global fixed income grew modestly by 0.87%. Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, affected energy markets and investor sentiment, highlighting volatility and fragility in global supply. Central banks reacted variably to inflationary pressures, with the ECB raising rates amidst concerns of stagflation, while the Fed and Bank of England held rates steady. Despite economic challenges, robust earnings continued in Europe and Asia, driven by AI infrastructure demand. The Aristotle International Equity Fund (Class I-2) recorded an 8.40% return in the quarter, underperforming both the MSCI EAFE Index, which returned 10.82%, and the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index, which returned 14.49%. Going forward, the fund remains focused on quality investments as geopolitical and macroeconomic complexities make forecasting returns challenging. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Aristotle International Equity Fund highlighted Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL). Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) is a British consumer goods giant, that sell products across food, homecare, beauty, and personal care categories. On September 17, 2026, Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) closed at $62.22 per share. Over the past month, Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) declined 2.99%, but its shares are down 5.09% over the past year. Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) has a market capitalization of $133.98 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.75 to $74.98.
Aristotle International Equity Fund stated the following regarding Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We first invested in Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL), the global consumer staples company, in the second quarter of 2013. We have long been attracted to the company's broad portfolio of leading personal care and food brands (such as Dove, Knorr and Axe), global scale, significant emerging markets exposure and strong position across everyday use categories. Over our more than decade-long holding period, Unilever strengthened and simplified its portfolio, divesting lower-growth food ***** ets, improving efficiency, increasing focus behind its largest brands and shifting the business toward faster-growing, higher-margin beauty, wellbeing, personal care and home care categories. More recently, the separation of the ice cream business and continued reshaping of the food portfolio have further narrowed Unilever's strategic focus. While we continue to view the remaining Unilever franchise as high quality, we believe the more compelling opportunity now resides in the independent ice cream business, where dedicated management and a category-specific strategy should provide a clearer pa

PepsiCo (PEP) has gone nowhere for a year, down 1.8% over the past twelve months while the S&P 500 returned 16.6%. At about $135 a share it trades at 17.7 times earnings, against an S&P 500 median of 22.5. A big cash generator priced below the market is what value buyers hunt for, so is this discount impatience or a verdict?
PepsiCo sells snacks and drinks everywhere consumer staples get sold: grocery aisles, convenience and gas stations, and the away-from-home locations it keeps adding. That reach turns into cash: free cash flow over the trailing twelve months was $9.28 billion, a 5.0% yield.
None of the recent numbers look like a business in trouble. Revenue over the trailing twelve months grew 5.6%, and the operating margin is holding at 15.0% against an S&P 500 median of 18.6%. Management says global volumes grew in both foods and beverages in the first half of 2026, the fastest growth in volume since 2022.
Widen the window and the picture changes. PepsiCo's revenue grew 5.6% over the trailing twelve months against an S&P 500 median of 8.3%, and its three-year average is just 2.5% a year. The trailing twelve months ran hotter, but one window is not a pace, and the pace is what the market pays for.
The company lowered prices in the U.S. early in 2026 to get volume moving. Management says salty snacks went from falling volume to rising volume and PepsiCo gained share, but volume in the second quarter of 2026 fell short of what it expected, which it blames on a consumer hurt by higher gas prices and on delays executing the price investment at some customers. None of this is lost on the market: it is pricing a company that grows slowly and has just spent money trying to grow faster. The problem sits in North America, while the international business stayed strong.

#months #trailing

Auxier ******* et Management, an investment advisory firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Following a strong rebound from the first-quarter decline, the S&P 500 gained 15.2% as accelerating capital spending toward artificial intelligence infrastructure drove significant gains across technology hardware companies. Semiconductor and data-center-related businesses benefited from supply constraints and strong demand, while enterprise software remained under pressure as investors reassessed AI disruption risks and compressed valuations. In the quarter, Auxier Focus Fund's Investor Class gained 8.82% and 10.70% for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Despite strong earnings growth across the broader market, Auxier highlighted concerns around rising margin debt, increased leverage, and elevated capital flows into high-growth technology areas that could amplify future volatility. The firm continues to focus on identifying enduring businesses with strong competitive advantages, resilient cash flows, and sustainable long-term growth potential. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ******* et Management highlighted The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR). The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is a leading supermarket chain that operates combination food and drug stores, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price impact warehouses. On September 14, 2026, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) closed at $60.91 per share. Over the past month, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) returned 10.12%, but its shares are down 7.06% over the past year. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has a market capitalization of $37.32 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.15 to $76.58.
Auxier ******* et Management stated the following regarding The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Consumer staples underperformed during the quarter. Elevated inflation, high interest rates and rising gas prices contributed to lower consumer spending, impacting companies like The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) and PepsiCo. Although Kroger's stock has been weak, its new CEO Greg Foran brings exceptional leadership that promises positive change. While he was President of Walmart US from 2014-2019, the company achieved 20 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth and scaled its online grocery pickup. Since joining Kroger he has aggressively reduced prices and boosted the growth in private label and organic offerings. The stock trades at a mere 12 times earnings which is a significant discount to both Costco and Walmart."

#Growth #asset

Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) is reportedly exploring the sale of several mass-market personal care brands, including Softsoap, Irish Spring and Speed Stick, in a portfolio reshaping effort that could generate more than $1 billion. The company is working with Goldman Sachs on the potential divestiture. Personal care accounted for roughly 17% of Colgate-Palmolive's 2025 net sales, or about $3.5 billion, while oral care remains the company's largest business.
The move comes as Colgate faces pressure in its North American business. Although the company recently reported a 4.9% increase in net sales, organic sales in North America declined 3%, highlighting competitive pressure in a mature market. The strategy is also consistent with a broader consumer-goods shift toward simplifying portfolios and concentrating capital on higher-growth categories. Unilever, Nestlé, and other major consumer companies have similarly been selling slower-growing or non-core businesses.
The biggest positive is that Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) could become a more focused and potentially higher-quality business. Selling brands that no longer fit its highest-priority growth areas would allow management to concentrate capital, marketing spending, and management attention on oral care, pet nutrition, and other businesses where Colgate has stronger competitive advantages. The company's decision would therefore be less about abandoning personal care altogether and more about improving the quality of the remaining portfolio.
A sale could also unlock meaningful shareholder value. If the divestitures generate more than $1 billion, Colgate would have additional capital that could be used for debt reduction, share repurchases, acquisitions, or investment behind its strongest brands. In a mature consumer-staples company, disciplined capital allocation can have an outsized impact on earnings growth and shareholder returns. There is also evidence that portfolio simplification is becoming increasingly attractive across the consumer-goods industry. The Wall Street Journal has highlighted how companies such as Unilever and Nestlé are shedding businesses that add complexity without providing sufficient growth. The underlying argument is that the benefits of owning a very broad portfolio have diminished as consumer preferences become more fragmented and smaller brands become better at responding to trends.
Most importantly, the divestiture could improve Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL)'s strategic focus at a time when North American competition is challenging. Rather than allocating resources to defend slower-growing personal-care brands, management could direct investment toward categories and geographies with better long-term growth prospects. That could ultimately support margins and organic growth even if the immediate revenue base becomes smaller.

#personal #NYSE #Portfolio

Auxier ***** et Management, an investment advisory firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Following a strong rebound from the first-quarter decline, the S&P 500 gained 15.2% as accelerating capital spending toward artificial intelligence infrastructure drove significant gains across technology hardware companies. Semiconductor and data-center-related businesses benefited from supply constraints and strong demand, while enterprise software remained under pressure as investors reassessed AI disruption risks and compressed valuations. In the quarter, Auxier Focus Fund's Investor Class gained 8.82% and 10.70% for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Despite strong earnings growth across the broader market, Auxier highlighted concerns around rising margin debt, increased leverage, and elevated capital flows into high-growth technology areas that could amplify future volatility. The firm continues to focus on identifying enduring businesses with strong competitive advantages, resilient cash flows, and sustainable long-term growth potential. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Auxier ***** et Management highlighted The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR). The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is a leading supermarket chain that operates combination food and drug stores, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price impact warehouses. On September 14, 2026, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) closed at $60.91 per share. Over the past month, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) returned 10.12%, but its shares are down 7.06% over the past year. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has a market capitalization of $37.32 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.15 to $76.58.
Auxier ***** et Management stated the following regarding The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Consumer staples underperformed during the quarter. Elevated inflation, high interest rates and rising gas prices contributed to lower consumer spending, impacting companies like The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) and PepsiCo. Although Kroger's stock has been weak, its new CEO Greg Foran brings exceptional leadership that promises positive change. While he was President of Walmart US from 2014-2019, the company achieved 20 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth and scaled its online grocery pickup. Since joining Kroger he has aggressively reduced prices and boosted the growth in private label and organic offerings. The stock trades at a mere 12 times earnings which is a significant discount to both Costco and Walmart."

#NYSE #quarter #Growth #strong

Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) is reportedly exploring the sale of several mass-market personal care brands, including Softsoap, Irish Spring and Speed Stick, in a portfolio reshaping effort that could generate more than $1 billion. The company is working with Goldman Sachs on the potential divestiture. Personal care accounted for roughly 17% of Colgate-Palmolive's 2025 net sales, or about $3.5 billion, while oral care remains the company's largest business.
The move comes as Colgate faces pressure in its North American business. Although the company recently reported a 4.9% increase in net sales, organic sales in North America declined 3%, highlighting competitive pressure in a mature market. The strategy is also consistent with a broader consumer-goods shift toward simplifying portfolios and concentrating capital on higher-growth categories. Unilever, Nestlé, and other major consumer companies have similarly been selling slower-growing or non-core businesses.
The biggest positive is that Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) could become a more focused and potentially higher-quality business. Selling brands that no longer fit its highest-priority growth areas would allow management to concentrate capital, marketing spending, and management attention on oral care, pet nutrition, and other businesses where Colgate has stronger competitive advantages. The company's decision would therefore be less about abandoning personal care altogether and more about improving the quality of the remaining portfolio.
A sale could also unlock meaningful shareholder value. If the divestitures generate more than $1 billion, Colgate would have additional capital that could be used for debt reduction, share repurchases, acquisitions, or investment behind its strongest brands. In a mature consumer-staples company, disciplined capital allocation can have an outsized impact on earnings growth and shareholder returns. There is also evidence that portfolio simplification is becoming increasingly attractive across the consumer-goods industry. The Wall Street Journal has highlighted how companies such as Unilever and Nestlé are shedding businesses that add complexity without providing sufficient growth. The underlying argument is that the benefits of owning a very broad portfolio have diminished as consumer preferences become more fragmented and smaller brands become better at responding to trends.
Most importantly, the divestiture could improve Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL)'s strategic focus at a time when North American competition is challenging. Rather than allocating resources to defend slower-growing personal-care brands, management could direct investment toward categories and geographies with better long-term growth prospects. That could ultimately support margins and organic growth even if the immediate revenue base becomes smaller.

#colgate #company #care

If you are looking for yield today, rising interest rates have increased your options. For example, the 30-year Treasury bond's yield is around 5.3% as of this writing. By comparison, the S&P 500 index (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) is only yielding around 1%. But there are still two big reasons why investors may want to buy a high-yield dividend stock like Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO), even though its 2.4% yield isn't even close to the 30-year Treasury yield.
A bond is an agreement between the lender and the borrower. The lender provides a fixed amount of cash, while the borrower pays interest at a fixed rate until the loan matures. When the loan matures, the borrower repays the bond's principal. Everything is fixed, and both the value of the interest collected and the bond's principal are slowly eroded by inflation. It doesn't matter that 30-year Treasuries are considered safe because they are backed by the U.S. government. The big inflation risk is still the same.
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 »
If you have a short investment time horizon, inflation may not be a big issue for you. In which case, the 5.3% yield of a 30-year Treasury would probably be more attractive than Coca-Cola's 2.4% yield. However, if you have a long time horizon, Coca-Cola's yield comes with something that a Treasury doesn't: Growth.
Coca-Cola is one of the world's largest consumer staples companies. It has an incredible history of growth, highlighted by 64 annual dividend increases. That makes the company a Dividend King. But think about that for a second, you can collect 30 years of the same income from a bond or 30 years of increasing income from Coca-Cola. Since the start of 1996, roughly 30 years ago, the company's dividend has increased by nearly 750%. That dividend growth was driven by the company's growth, which also led to an over 300% increase in the stock price. If you hold a bond to maturity, all you get back is the principal.

#coca

The 2026 Venice Film Festival runs from September 2 to September 12, 2026, with A-listers like Kendall Jenner and Robert Pattinson in attendance.
Stars traditionally hit the red carpet in couture gowns, statement-making pieces, and custom tuxedos.
InStyle looks back at the festival's best fashion moments, dating all the way back to 1958.
The 83rd Venice International Film Festival is officially underway. Film junkie or not, you can't deny that Hollywood's finest arrive in Italy ready to bring their best-dressed game. After all, when you're surrounded by your peers competing for some of the industry's highest honors, why wouldn't you dress the part? C'mon. First held in August 1932, the Venice Film Festival has long been one of the industry's most glamorous events, welcoming everyone from Jane Fonda to Lady Gaga over the decades. I'd argue the red carpet is a spectacle all its own, with our favorite fashion houses playing a starring role.
From the water-taxi arrivals to the actual carpet, celebrities often use Venice to offer a glimpse at fashion's next era, stepping out in fresh-of-the-runway Chanel, Dior, Versace, and more. Robert Pattinson, for instance, pulled up in Dior 2027, while Timothée Chalamet famously tested the waters in a daring backless ensemble. Or Zendaya in that Dune-coded Balmain look in 2021? And of course, we have to pay our respects to the style icons who came before them—ahem Jane Birkin—who brough their signature effortless staples to the Lido.

#venice #carpet #september #dior

Meghan Markle could rethink her fashion choices as she settles into life in Britain, according to a style expert. Her UK return may bring a wardrobe that blends California ease with more practical British dressing. The ***** ss of Sussex spent six years in California, where her style embraced relaxed silhouettes, linen pieces, white hats, and casual accessories.
Lauren Bulla believes Meghan Markle's fashion could shift again, especially if she continues living in the Cotswolds. "As Meghan has lived in California for six years, it's expected her style would shift towards a Montecito vibe," Bulla told "GB News". She noted that Meghan embraced "more relaxed fits" and casual pieces during her time in California.
However, Bulla expects Meghan to bring some British influences back into her wardrobe. "We can also expect Meghan to adhere to harking back to British societal expectations with higher necklines and structured garments while still keeping with casual elements – wearing a pair of jeans and trainers."
The countryside could influence her choices too. Bulla predicts that Meghan may reach for wellies, trainers, trench coats, crossbody bags, and muted neutral patterns if the Cotswolds become her main base.
Meanwhile, autumn weather could push Meghan toward heavier fabrics. Bulla expects her to swap lightweight linen for weather-appropriate materials while mixing casual staples with polished tailoring. "There's a lot of speculation about what her style will be like back in the UK," Bulla said. The expert added, "There will likely be some playful looks as well as formal ones."

#british

Meghan Markle could rethink her fashion choices as she settles into life in Britain, according to a style expert. Her UK return may bring a wardrobe that blends California ease with more practical British dressing. The ******* ss of Sussex spent six years in California, where her style embraced relaxed silhouettes, linen pieces, white hats, and casual accessories.
Lauren Bulla believes Meghan Markle's fashion could shift again, especially if she continues living in the Cotswolds. "As Meghan has lived in California for six years, it's expected her style would shift towards a Montecito vibe," Bulla told "GB News". She noted that Meghan embraced "more relaxed fits" and casual pieces during her time in California.
However, Bulla expects Meghan to bring some British influences back into her wardrobe. "We can also expect Meghan to adhere to harking back to British societal expectations with higher necklines and structured garments while still keeping with casual elements – wearing a pair of jeans and trainers."
The countryside could influence her choices too. Bulla predicts that Meghan may reach for wellies, trainers, trench coats, crossbody bags, and muted neutral patterns if the Cotswolds become her main base.
Meanwhile, autumn weather could push Meghan toward heavier fabrics. Bulla expects her to swap lightweight linen for weather-appropriate materials while mixing casual staples with polished tailoring. "There's a lot of speculation about what her style will be like back in the UK," Bulla said. The expert added, "There will likely be some playful looks as well as formal ones."

#fashion

On this episode of the College Football Enquirer Andy Staples, Ross Dellenger and Steven Godfrey break down the latest between LSU and the SEC... Is this saga finally coming to an end?
From there we dive into Ohio State going down to Austin to take on the Longhorns, as well as Michigan welcoming the Sooners to Ann Arbor.
To round out the show We've Got a Feeling about week 2 matchups!
00:00 Show Rundown
00:38 The SEC no longer seeking expulsion for LSU

#dellenger

Harbor Funds, an investment management company, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund". The letter can be downloaded here. Global equities experienced a sharp rally in Q2 2026, with the S&P 500 returning 15.2%, its strongest quarter since 2020, driven by a shift from software to hardware in the Artificial Intelligence capital spending cycle. Small caps outperformed large caps, with the Russell 2000® gaining 21.5% compared to the Russell 1000's 15.1%. Growth stocks led within large caps, while Information Technology rose about 33%, contributing significantly to the S&P 500's return. The Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund returned 13.99%, outperforming its benchmark, the Russell Midcap Value Index. Strong stock selection in Consumer Discretionary, Real Estate, and Financials contributed positively, although an underweight in Information Technology negatively impacted results. Despite ongoing economic uncertainties, the investment philosophy remains committed to a disciplined value approach. Check the fund's top five holdings for its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund highlighted The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR). The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is a leading supermarket chain that operates combination food and drug stores, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price impact warehouses. On September 04, 2026, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) closed at $58.59 per share. Over the past month, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) returned 1.83%, but its shares are down 15.42% over the past year. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has a market capitalization of $35.89 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.15 to $76.58.
Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund stated the following regarding The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Other detractors were The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) in the Consumer Staples sector and Matador Resources in the Energy sector. Kroger was down more than 20% as slowing same-store sales and inflation weighed on the stock. Competition from lower cost providers has forced Kroger to reduce prices to maintain market share."
The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 56 hedge fund portfolios held The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) at the end of the second quarter, up from 52 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) 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.

#NYSE #value #fund

Harbor Funds, an investment management company, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund". The letter can be downloaded here. Global equities experienced a sharp rally in Q2 2026, with the S&P 500 returning 15.2%, its strongest quarter since 2020, driven by a shift from software to hardware in the Artificial Intelligence capital spending cycle. Small caps outperformed large caps, with the Russell 2000® gaining 21.5% compared to the Russell 1000's 15.1%. Growth stocks led within large caps, while Information Technology rose about 33%, contributing significantly to the S&P 500's return. The Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund returned 13.99%, outperforming its benchmark, the Russell Midcap Value Index. Strong stock selection in Consumer Discretionary, Real Estate, and Financials contributed positively, although an underweight in Information Technology negatively impacted results. Despite ongoing economic uncertainties, the investment philosophy remains committed to a disciplined value approach. Check the fund's top five holdings for its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund highlighted Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR). Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR), a US-based independent energy company engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas resources, detracted from the performance during the quarter. On September 04, 2026, Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) closed at $59.15 per share. Over the past month, Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) returned 16.27%, and its shares are up 28.26% over the past year. Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) has a market capitalization of $7.32 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $37.14 to $66.84.
Harbor Mid Cap Value Fund stated the following regarding Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Other detractors were Kroger in the Consumer Staples sector and Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) in the Energy sector. Matador Resources fell 20%. ***** ysts downgraded the stock during the quarter as natural gas prices fell and costs increased, squeezing margins."
Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 38 hedge fund portfolios held Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) at the end of the second quarter, up from 35 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) 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.

#NYSE #Stock

Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO) is one of the best-known companies in the world, thanks to its namesake beverage brand, so it needs little introduction. However, what's most impressive right now is the stock's performance. It is up 28% over the past year, as of this writing. The average consumer staples stock is only up 5% over that span. Even the S&P 500 index (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) is "only" up 20%. After a run like that, is Coca-Cola a buy, hold, or sell?
Coca-Cola is a well-run business. It is one of the world's largest consumer staples companies. It is globally diversified and has industry-leading capabilities in distribution, marketing, and innovation. The company's fundamental strength is evident in its status as a Dividend King, with 64 consecutive annual dividend increases. The only consumer staples peer with a better record is Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG), but P&G doesn't make food. So, Coca-Cola is the food company with the best dividend record.
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 »
If you want to own industry-leading businesses, Coca-Cola should be on your short list. And, with an above-market yield of 2.4%, you could easily justify adding it to your portfolio. That's particularly true given recent results, with organic revenue growth of 6% in the second quarter of 2026, even as consumers tighten their belts. In fact, Coca-Cola raised its full-year guidance despite the broader food industry's struggles.
Certainly, if you have owned Coca-Cola for years, selling it right when it is performing so well as a business probably isn't something you should be considering. Unless, of course, the stock's valuation was running ahead of its historical norms. But that's not the case.

#staples

ADP's 92% client retention and $11.04 EPS covering a $6.64 dividend powers growth, while Aflac CEO Dan Amos confirmed 43 straight years of dividend increases.
Chevron leads the trio with a 3.49% yield, $15.4 billion in free cash flow, and a 20-year Microsoft power deal delivering returns independent of oil prices.
Owning all three Aristocrats together delivers genuine sector diversification across payroll fees, insurance capital, and integrated energy inside a single income strategy.
Just released. Our ******* ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Dividend Aristocrats get lumped together as if they are one defensive blob of consumer staples names, but the label actually spans wildly different business models. The three companies below sit in payroll processing, supplemental insurance and integrated energy, and each has stacked annual dividend increases well past the 25-year bar the headline demands.

#Dividend

Sep. 2—BEMIDJI — When looking at the singles side of the Bemidji High School tennis courts, the home fans would be forgiven if they thought Wednesday's match against Staples-Motley took place in 2025.
For much of this season, the Lumberjacks' singles lineup has carried over from last fall. Liz Peterson occupies the top spot, while Lilly Caron and Bailey Rupp typically play Nos. 2 and 3 singles, save for their occasional doubles appearances. Natalie ****** berg rounds out the group at No. 4 singles, just as she did on Wednesday in the Jacks' 6-1 win over the Cardinals.
The real differences so far in the young 2026 season have been on the doubles side of the court. With the departures of Megan Berg, Naomi Johnson and Abby Myhrer, almost every doubles pair had to be retooled for 2026.
Junior Kelli Carlson has been moved up to No. 2, paired with eighth-grader Piper Whiting. Freshmen Norah Friese and Emma Carlson are gaining experience at the No. 3 spot.
Then there are seniors Zoe McNallan and Millie Knott, who have known each other even before they became partners on the tennis court.

#season

Cardale Jones never envisioned being a football coach.
It's a ***** le he's still trying to get used to after joining Matty Jacowleff's staff at Staples as quarterbacks coach this summer.
Part of the fun, of course, is when players find out about Jones' past, a history that features a national championship at Ohio State in 2014.
So how often do the players bring up the championship while working with Jones?
"Every day," Jones said with a laugh. "These guys are insane. They're relentless. Every day, it's another kid coming up to me and saying 'coach Jones, in my free period today, I looked you up on YouTube. I watched you play with this guy and that guy. Man, you were good.'

#cardale #ohio

Here is what you need to know for the 2026 CIAC field hockey
2025 champions:
Darien (L), Branford (M), Immaculate (S)
Tuesday, Sept. 8
Returning GametimeCT All-Staters
First Team: Shannon Bock, Darien. Sr., M; Lily McClay, Ludlowe, Jr., M; Lilly Panuccio, Branford, Sr., G; Jessica Radziunas, Branford, Sr., M Second Team: Leah Larit, Staples, Sr., M; Ellie Meyran, Branford, Jr., F; Cienna McNamara, New Milford, Sr., F; Camryn Santa, Granby Memorial, Sr., F; Zoe Tsounkanelis, Guilford, Sr. F Honorable Mention: Anna Hering, New Canaan, Sr., D/M; Clara Fielden, Wilton, Sr., D/M

#team

From ketchup and cheese to sauces and other household food staples, Kraft Heinz Company (KHC) has built a portfolio that has become a familiar name in kitchens worldwide. Now, the food giant is making a small but notable change on Wall Street, and KHC stock investors may want to mark their calendars. No, it is not about a new product hitting grocery shelves. This time, the change is happening on Wall Street.
Kraft Heinz is moving its stock listing from the Nasdaq ($NASX) to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Monday, Sept. 14. The company has traded on the Nasdaq since 2015, following the merger of Kraft Foods and H.J. Heinz. The food giant has called the NYSE its "natural home" as it moves into what CEO Steve Cahillane describes as its next chapter.
Jeff Bezos' Heartfelt Tribute to Dolly Parton Drew Brutal Backlash: 'Nobody Wanted to Hear This From You' — He Once Gave Her $100 Million for Charity
Intel vs. AMD: Why the Market Share Number Is Misleading
A $100 Billion Buildout In Louisiana Is Planned for Starship. What This Means for SPCX Stock.

#Stock #company

At first blush, there's nothing connecting the businesses of **** e Exploration Technology (NASDAQ: SPCX) and Hershey (NYSE: HSY). One makes **** ecraft, AI technology, and operates the Starlink satellite telecommunications network. The other makes candy bars. But when you dig into the ownership structure, you start to see the connection. Here's what you can learn about **** eX from Hershey.
The CEO is likely to have the most influence on a business, but there are limitations. That's because the CEO actually works for the board of directors. And the board of directors is hired by the shareholders. So, if anything really big is going to take place, such as a merger or acquisition, the largest shareholders will have an important say. In the case of consumer staples maker Hershey, the largest shareholder is The Hershey Foundation.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
The Hershey Foundation has said no to multiple takeover offers. The foundation uses the dividends it collects from owning Hershey stock to support its philanthropic endeavors, so it is acting to protect the reliable income stream it receives. That may or may not be in the best interest of shareholders, noting that a buyout could lead to a sizable capital gain. But the real takeaway is that Hershey is beholden to The Hershey Foundation in important ways, as the foundation controls 80% of the company's voting power.
Elon Musk controls 48.4% of **** eX's voting power. That's not as much control as The Hershey Foundation has at Hershey, but it is close enough to 50.1% to give him effective control over all decisions. Add in that he's the CEO, and Musk's position of power gets even stronger. If you own **** eX, you are effectively investing alongside Elon Musk. What he wants to do is almost certainly going to get done. Mergers, acquisitions, and major capital investments are his to decide because it would be hard, if not impossible, for the board or shareholders to muster the votes needed to oppose Musk.

#NVIDIA

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged his country's economic woes amid pressure from the U.S., which is strangling its trade while protecting other countries' ships carrying oil through the Strait of Hormuz.
Recent weeks have seen Tehran lose leverage over the critical energy chokepoint as traffic picks up, especially via a southern route along Oman's coast. At the same time, warnings about Iran's economy from Pezeshkian and the regime's other relative moderates have been mounting.
In an interview with state media on Friday, he signaled defiance in the face of all the economic pressure and credited Iran's resilience to its unity.
"We have many problems," Pezeshkian said, according to a Google translation. "There's inflation, economic issues, employment and many other problems, but the people are with us."
Indeed, inflation has soared above 80%, with prices for certain food staples up 100%. The International Monetary Fund said in April Iran's economy will shrink 6.1% this year, the worst contraction in decades. And a labor ministry official estimated that more than 1 million jobs had been lost by late May.

#pressure #problems #inflation

On this episode of CFE Andy Staples, Ross Dellenger and Steven Godfrey break down the conferences passing rules against players returning from the NFL. From there we break down the matchup between UNC and TCU, and what we can expect from year two of Bill Belichick in Chaple Hill.
To round out the show we bring back I've Got a Feeling about the week 0 matchups!
All this and more on this episode of the College Football Enquirer.
00:00 Show Start
00:47 Conferences pass rules against NFL players returning

#down #staples

NASCAR "driver appearances" were once so common, you couldn't avoid them on any milk-and-bread run, not to mention a swing by the local auto parts store.
Well, this week in Daytona, you can meet two former champions as well as the two best NASCAR racers to win everything BUT a championship.
Along the way, you can meet a driver at a pool party.
NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin, who recently released an autobiography — "Never Lift" — will be among the big names you can find Thursday at one of the old staples of NASCAR partnerships: Winn-Dixie.
His fellow famous non-champ, Denny Hamlin, can also be found there.

#well #driver #meet #famer

Good morning. Stocks began trading on a more upbeat note on Tuesday as falling oil prices and Treasury yields lifted sentiment, helping markets shake off concerns about US tensions with Iran and Canada.
Here's a check of the markets in the first few minutes of trading, based on a heat map powered by Yahoo Finance AlphaSpace data.
Tech (XLK) stocks bounced back after posting losses on Monday, showing broad strength across semiconductor, software, and hardware stocks. Nvidia (NVDA) stock rose by about 2%, putting shares on track to end a seven-day losing streak if today's gains hold.
Investors fled Consumer Staples (XLP) names, reversing Monday's trading pattern. As Treasury yields and oil prices pull back and inflation jitters subside for now, it's creating a rotation into growth and technology plays.
Here are some notable stocks that Yahoo Finance readers are viewing this morning: Sandisk (SNDK), Marvell (MRVL), Intel (INTC), SK Hynix (SKHY), AMD (AMD), Bloom Energy (BE), and Lam Research (LRCX).

#finance

Rihanna seems to know how to take any footwear silhouette — whether it be a classic pump, a sultry slingback or a pair of sneakers — and make it look unmistakably her own. In 2026, the Fenty Beauty founder has worn tiger-striped Alaïa pumps for a New York date night, Nike x Jacquemus Moon Shoes with off-duty staples and suede knee-high boots to the FIFA World Cup Final. She returned to the stage in glossy Saint Laurent Vendôme slingbacks, then turned an everyday family outing into a statement in snakeskin sandal heels. Ahead, revisit Rihanna's standout shoe moments of 2026—so far.
More from WWD
Vivica A. Fox Defies the Minimalism Trend in Metallic Gold Platforms
Maisie Williams Channels Her Witchy 'Practical Magic 2' Character With Lili Curia Boots in London
Gayle King Makes the Case for Color-pop Shoe Trend in Yellow Pumps at the U.S. Open

#shoe #fenty #jacquemus

Margaret Qualley brought high fashion to the outdoors in her stunning new cover story. Photographed by Talia Ryder and styled by Taylor McNeill for POP Magazine Issue 55 (Autumn/Winter 2026), the actress looked effortlessly glamorous. She effortlessly layered a shimmering designer look straight off the Chanel runway with her own relaxed streetwear pieces. Thus, her bold styling choices proved that classic tweed and sparkling textures can feel completely modern and cool.
For the Pop Magazine cover shot, Margaret Qualley sat outdoors while holding a small, adorable grey dog in her arms. She wore a striking ensemble from Chanel's Fall/Winter 2026 collection. Her outfit started with a classic tweed jacket. The jacket was woven with metallic gold, beige, and black plaid patterns. It featured vibrant red trim along the lapels and red ***** on details. The red accents also added a bold pop of color to the textured outer layer.
Beneath the jacket, Qualley wore her own bright red hoodie. The simple hoodie brought a playful street-style contrast to the luxury outfit. She paired the top layers with a blinding, iridescent metallic skirt. The shimmering skirt caught the light with rainbow-hued metallic tones.
What made the skirt stand out most was its daring silhouette. It was designed with not just one, but two dangerously high slits along the front. The double-slit cuts added plenty of movement and drama to the knee-length metallic piece.
With her long, dark hair draped naturally over one shoulder under the red hood, Qualley posed with a playful, candid facial expression. Her fresh-faced makeup and relaxed pose brought an easygoing, cool-girl vibe to the high-fashion Chanel look. Moreover, she pulled off a daring style risk with ease. By pairing high-end runway pieces with everyday wardrobe staples, Qualley created an unforgettable fashion moment that felt both bold and accessible.

#high #brought #fashion