Latest news for PG&E (NYSE:PCG) Stock

PG&E

PG&E is a holding company whose main subsidiary is Pacific Gas and Electric, a regulated utility operating in Central and Northern California that serves 5.3 million electricity customers and 4.6 million gas customers in 47 of the state's 58 counties. PG&E operated under bankruptcy court supervision between January 2019 and June 2020. In 2004, PG&E sold its unregulated assets as part of an earlier postbankruptcy reorganization.

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Wells Fargo is going to go higher, according to Jim Cramer. It&#39;s a &#34;winner,&#34; the &#34;Mad Money Lightning Round&#34; host said.

Jim Cramer: This Utilities Stock Is A Buy, Calls Wells Fargo A &#39;Winner&#39;

Edison International (EIX) - 1.84% Of Portfolio

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Analyst expects favorable entry point for investors in EIX, PCG, and SRE due to discounts from past wildfire concerns and CA&#39;s wildfire risk management mechanisms. 

California Utilities EIX, PCG, And SRE Offer Strong Buy Opportunities Despite Past Wildfire Concerns, Says BofA Analyst

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WAVE

Top 3 Utilities Stocks You May Want To Dump In August

PG&E Corp

Litman Gregory Funds Trust Polen Capital Global Growth ETF

PC Group Inc

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 6% Preferred Stock

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 5 1/2% Preferred Stock

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 5% 1st Preferred Stock

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 5% 1st Red. Preferred Stock

Pacific Gas & Electric Co

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 5% 1st A Preferred Stock

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 4.80% 1st Preferred Stock

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 4.50% 1st Preferred Stock

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. 4.36% 1st Preferred Stock

On CNBC's &#8220;Mad Money Lightning Round,&#8221; Jim Cramer said Wells Fargo &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>) is going to go higher, adding that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WFC">it's a &#8220;winner.&#8221;</a>
On Sept. 17, the San Francisco-based bank launched specialized Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for its Commercial Banking clients, expanding its API portfolio. 
These APIs offer real-time data access aimed at boosting sales, improving liquidity, reducing credit risk, and cutting expenses for floorplan and channel finance clients <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40903846/wells-fargo-launches-new-apis-to-boost-efficiency-and-productivity-details">across several industries.</a>
&#8220;It's had too big a move up,&#8221; Cramer said when asked about Iron Mountain Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IRM#NYSE">IRM</a>). &#8220;Let's move on.&#8221;
On Aug. 1, Iron Mountain reported better-than-expected second-quarter financial results and issued FY24 AFFO guidance above estimates. Also, the company increased its quarterly dividend.
Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) is a &#8220;cold&#8221; stock, Cramer said.
On Sept. 17, the company inked a multi-year, multi-million-dollar contract with Nebraska Medicine. As per the deal, Palantir will utilize its Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) to enhance healthcare through <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40898997/palantirs-ai-powers-nebraska-medicine-inks-multi-million-dollar-deal-to-advance-patient-care">transformative technologies</a>.
The &#8220;Mad Money&#8221; host recommended buying PG&amp;E Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>). &#8220;That stock is a good one, rate increase or no,&#8221; he added.
On Sept. 12, B of A Securities analyst Ross Fowler reinstated PG&amp;E with a Buy and announced a $24 price target.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Iron Mountain shares gained 0.5% to settle at $116.45 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Wells Fargo shares fell 0.5% to close at $54.26 during the session.</li>
<li>Palantir shares fell 0.2% to close at $36.38 during Wednesday's session.</li>
<li>PG&amp;E shares fell 1.8% to settle at $19.51.</li>
</ul>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/40927530/coinbase-global-electronic-arts-and-2-other-stocks-executives-are-selling">Coinbase Global, Electronic Arts And 2 Other Stocks Executives Are Selling</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Wikimedia Commons

Jim Cramer: This Utilities Stock Is A Buy, Calls Wells Fargo A 'Winner'

PG&amp;E Customers Can Access, Understand, and Make Informed Decisions about their Electricity Usage from the Home App on iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch
OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With the release of Apple&#39;s latest software updates, residential Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&amp;E) electric customers with an iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch now have access to new electricity usage features within the Home app. Customers can now connect their PG&amp;E account to the Home app, enabling them to access, understand, and make informed decisions about electricity use.

AAPL

Residential PG&E Customers Can Now Easily Access Electricity Usage Data From Apple Home App

BofA Securities analyst Ross Fowler reinstated the Buy rating on Edison International (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EIX#NYSE">EIX</a>), Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) and Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>).
The analyst writes that the companies are trading at discounts due to past wildfire concerns. Despite higher customer rates and concerns over affordability, California&#8217;s mechanisms for managing wildfire risks are among the best in the country, and recent developments create a favorable entry point for investors, adds the analyst.
Last month, the Park fire, the largest wildfire currently burning in the U.S., ravaged over 426,000 acres in Northern California, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40266751/the-park-fire-rages-on-which-companies-could-be-affected-by-californias-fourth-largest-wildfire-" rel="noreferrer noopener">particularly within Lassen National Forest</a>.
The fire spread rapidly due to hot, dry conditions and dense vegetation. Due to the region's rugged terrain, firefighters face difficulties in managing the fire. This fire has become the fourth largest in California history and could surpass the third-largest Mendocino Complex fire.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/08/40224567/as-tropical-storm-debby-hits-south-carolina-bettors-predict-an-aggressive-hurricane-season-will-it-b" rel="noreferrer noopener">As Tropical Storm Debby Hits South Carolina, Bettors Predict An Aggressive Hurricane Season: Will It Be The Worst Ever?</a>
EIX: The analyst reinstates the Buy rating <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EIX/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">with a $95 price target</a>.
Fowler writes that the proposed settlement covering ~60% of wildfire liabilities could positively impact recovery from Woolsey fire expenses. The analyst adds that as an electric-only California utility, EIX is well-positioned to benefit from the state&#8217;s electrification policy.
The analyst expects project EPS of $4.97 (vs. consensus: $4.94) for 2024, $5.63 (same as consensus) for 2025, and $6.09 (street view: $5.99) for 2026.
PCG: Fowler reinstates the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/pcg/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buy rating with a price target of $24</a>.
The analyst writes that management has effectively cleaned up the company post-emergence, and PCG is evolving into a more regulated utility.
Customer rates are high, but the analyst expects the company to resemble peers by 2026.
Projected EPS are $1.37 (vs. consensus: $1.36) for 2024, $1.50 (vs. consensus: $1.49) for 2025, and $1.62 (vs. street view of $1.61) for 2026.
SRE: Fowler reinstates the Buy rating with a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sre/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target of $94</a>.
The analyst says that SRE&#8217;s performance is often overshadowed by LNG headlines, though the regulated utilities in California and Texas drive value.
Capital plans shift earnings toward regulated sectors, and future LNG projects offer equity sell-down opportunities, adds the analyst.
Fowler projects EPS of $4.80 (vs. cons.: $4.77) for 2024, $5.16 (vs. $5.15 street view) for 2025 and $5.67 (vs. analyst cons. of $5.53) for 2026.
Image via Shutterstock
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40838900" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon E-Commerce Is A &#8216;Loss-Leader&#8217; … Its Real Money Is In &#8216;Services,&#8217; Says Analyst</a></li>
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B of A Securities analyst Ross Fowler reinstates PG&amp;E (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) with a Buy and announces $24 price target.

Initiation

B of A Securities Reinstates Buy on PG&E, Announces $24 Price Target

As of Aug 30, 2024, three stocks in the utilities sector could be flashing a real warning to investors who value momentum as a key criteria in their trading decisions.
The RSI is a momentum indicator, which compares a stock&#8217;s strength on days when prices go up to its strength on days when prices go down. When compared to a stock&#8217;s price action, it can give traders a better sense of how a stock may perform in the short term. An asset is typically considered overbought when the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/rsi">RSI is above 70</a>, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>. 
Here's the latest list of major overbought players in this sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Eco Wave Power Global AB (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WAVE#NASDAQ">WAVE</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Aug. 8, Eco Wave Power received green light for the repurchase of 10% of its American Depositary Shares. The company's stock gained around 40% over the past month and has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WAVE">52-week high of $4.94</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 70.67&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>WAVE Price Action: Shares of Eco Wave Power Global gained 1.5% to close at $4.16 on Thursday.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">WEC Energy Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEC#NYSE">WEC</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On July 31, WEC Energy posted better-than-expected quarterly earnings. &#8220;Despite the warmest winter on record, we&#8217;re delivering solid results, and we&#8217;re firmly on track for a strong 2024,&#8221; said Scott Lauber, president and CEO. &#8220;We&#8217;re focused on the fundamentals of our business — financial discipline, customer satisfaction and operating efficiency.&#8221; The company's stock gained around 8% over the past month and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEC">has a 52-week high</a> of $93.78.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 75.32</li>
<li>WEC Price Action: Shares of WEC Energy fell 0.02% to close at $92.77 on Thursday.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">PG&amp;E Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On July 25, PG&amp;E posted better-than-expected quarterly earnings. &#8220;We&#8217;re delivering for our customers and hometowns today through a foundation of safe operations, wildfire risk reduction and solid financial progress. We also see a bright future where we lower average household energy costs, including from transportation, and further cut carbon emissions,&#8221; said PG&amp;E Corporation CEO Patti Poppe. The company's stock gained around 7% over the past month and has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PCG">52-week high</a> of $19.84.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 75.64</li>
<li>PCG Price Action: Shares of PG&amp;E gained 3.7% to close at $19.60 on Thursday.</li>
</ul>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40645116/dow-notches-new-record-close-but-nasdaq-falls-amid-decline-in-nvidia-shares-fear-index-enters-greed">Dow Notches New Record Close But Nasdaq Falls Amid Decline In Nvidia Shares: Fear Index Enters &#8216;Greed&#8217; Zone</a></li>
</ul>

Morgan Stanley analyst Stephen Byrd maintains PG&amp;E (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) with a Equal-Weight and raises the price target from $18 to $19.

Morgan Stanley Maintains Equal-Weight on PG&E, Raises Price Target to $19

The Nasdaq 100 closed higher by around 0.1% during Friday's session. Investors, meanwhile, focused on some notable insider trades.
When insiders sell shares, it could be a preplanned sale, or could indicate their concern in the company's prospects or that they view the stock as being overpriced. Insider sales should not be taken as the only indicator for making an investment or trading decision. At best, it can lend conviction to a selling decision.
Below is a look at a few recent notable insider sales. For more, check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">Benzinga&#8217;s insider transactions</a> platform.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">CrowdStrike</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) Chief Security Officer Shawn Henry s<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">old a total of 4,000 shares</a> at an average price of $260.00. The insider received around $1.04 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What's Happening: On Aug. 16, BMO Capital analyst Keith Bachman maintained CrowdStrike Holdings with an Outperform and lowered the price target from $410 to $290.</li>
<li>What CrowdStrike Does: CrowdStrike is a cloud-based cybersecurity company specializing in next-generation security verticals such as endpoint, cloud workload, identity, and security operations.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">latest CRWD news.</a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="902" height="837" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060421/image-145.png" alt="" class="wp-image-501059" style="width:609px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060421/image-145.png 902w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060421/image-145-300x278.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060421/image-145-768x713.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 902px) 100vw, 902px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">PG&amp;E</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: PG&amp;E Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) VP and Controller Stephanie N Williams <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">sold a total of 38,601 shares</a> at an average price of $18.32. The insider received around $707,170 from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What's Happening: On July 25, PG&amp;E posted upbeat quarterly earnings.</li>
<li>What PG&amp;E Does: PG&amp;E is a holding company whose main subsidiary is Pacific Gas and Electric, a regulated utility operating in Central and Northern California that serves 5.3 million electricity customers and 4.6 million gas customers in 47 of the state&#8217;s 58 counties.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">trend in PCG stock.</a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="906" height="831" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060535/image-146.png" alt="" class="wp-image-501062" style="width:628px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060535/image-146.png 906w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060535/image-146-300x275.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060535/image-146-768x704.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 906px) 100vw, 906px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Goldman Sachs</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) Director, Chairman of the Board and CEO David M Solomon <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">sold a total of 6,000 shares</a> at an average price of $500.29. The insider received around $3 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What's Happening: Goldman Sachs has reportedly agreed to sell Blanchardstown Centre, Ireland's largest shopping mall, to credit firm Strategic Value Partners.</li>
<li>What Goldman Sachs Does: Goldman Sachs is a leading global investment banking and asset management firm.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s signals feature notified of a potential <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">breakout in GS shares.</a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="877" height="831" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060641/image-147.png" alt="" class="wp-image-501063" style="width:646px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060641/image-147.png 877w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060641/image-147-300x284.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060641/image-147-768x728.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 877px) 100vw, 877px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Citigroup</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>) Controller &amp; Chief Acc Officer Johnbull Okpara <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">sold a total of 25,299 shares </a> at an average price of $60.57. The insider received around $1.5 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What's Happening: Recently a federal appeals court reportedly ruled that Citigroup vice president is not entitled to a portion of the $400 million civil fine the bank agreed to pay in October 2020 due to its risk management failures.</li>
<li>What Citigroup Does: Citigroup is a global financial-services company doing business in more than 100 countries and jurisdictions. </li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s earnings calendar was used to track upcoming <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">earnings reports of Citi.</a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="881" height="828" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060827/image-148.png" alt="" class="wp-image-501065" style="width:619px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060827/image-148.png 881w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060827/image-148-300x282.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19060827/image-148-768x722.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 881px) 100vw, 881px" /></a></figure>
Check This Out:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/08/40420521/jim-cramer-recommends-buying-clorox-ceo-has-done-remarkable-job"> </a>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/08/40420521/jim-cramer-recommends-buying-clorox-ceo-has-done-remarkable-job">Jim Cramer Recommends Buying Clorox: &#8216;CEO Has Done Remarkable Job&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Insider Trades

CRWD

CrowdStrike, Goldman Sachs And 2 Other Stocks Insiders Are Selling

California has faced numerous wildfires in recent memory as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/climate-change">climate change-induced weather</a> wreaks havoc on the Golden State. Which companies could be affected by the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40112086/august-heat-wave-grips-us-12-stocks-to-watch-as-blistering-temperatures-affect-nearly-150-millio">ongoing Park Fire</a> in Northern California?
Park Fire Rundown: The Park fire, the largest wildfire currently burning in the U.S., has ravaged over 426,000 acres in Northern California, particularly within Lassen National Forest, according <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/08/us/park-fire-california.html?partner=slack&amp;smid=sl-share">to</a> the New York Times.
The fire, ignited by an arson attack on July 24 near Chico in Butte County, has destroyed hundreds of homes and structures and was 34% contained as of Wednesday. 
The fire spread rapidly due to hot, dry conditions and dense vegetation. Due to the region&#8217;s rugged terrain, firefighters face difficulties in managing the fire. This fire has become the fourth largest in California history and could surpass the third-largest Mendocino Complex fire.
Experts attribute its intensity to climate change&#8217;s impact on California&#8217;s weather conditions. The hotter, drier climate extended and worsened wildfire seasons.
The fire is in a similar region to the deadly 2018 Camp Fire in Butte County.
Market Implications: California wildfires can negatively affect several companies, including those in the insurance, utilities and logistics industries.
Hanover Insurance Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/THG#NYSE">THG</a>) and Mercury General Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCY#NYSE">MCY</a>) each took hits in the aftermath of the 2018 Camp Fire.
It is unclear what PG&amp;E Corp&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) exposure is to the Park Fire. The utility provider, which supplies electricity to the region, <a href="https://krcrtv.com/news/local/pge-restores-power-to-over-2000-customers-affected-by-the-park-fire">confirmed</a> that it left some customers without power. A failure in PG&amp;E&#8217;s electrical infrastructure caused the 2018 Camp Fire; the company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/20/06/16327971/pg-e-bankruptcy-plan-gets-court-approval">later pleaded guilty</a> to the deaths of 84 victims of the fire.
Water utility firm California Water Service Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CWT#NYSE">CWT</a>) operates in Chico and nearby Oroville.
Union Pacific Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNP#NYSE">UNP</a>) seemingly <a href="https://www.up.com/aboutup/reference/maps/system_map/index.htm">operates</a> railway lines close to the site of the fire. The lines connect Sacramento to the Pacific Northwest and Reno, Nevada.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/08/40224567/as-tropical-storm-debby-hits-south-carolina-bettors-predict-an-aggressive-hurricane-season-will-it-b">As Tropical Storm Debby Hits South Carolina, Bettors Predict An Aggressive Hurricane Season: Will It Be The Worst Ever?</a></li>
</ul>

Events

The Park Fire Rages On: Which Companies Could Be Affected By California's Fourth-Largest Wildfire Ever?

PG&amp;E's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) short percent of float has risen 3.31% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 36.63 million shares sold short, which is 1.56% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.93 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>PG&amp;E Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1723135513_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for PG&amp;E has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing PG&amp;E's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, PG&amp;E's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 2.41%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

How Is The Market Feeling About PG&E?

A heat wave is set to sweep across several regions of the United States as 2024 shapes up to be one of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39583371/july-fourth-heat-california-faces-blackout-and-fire-risks-this-week-during-triple-digit-temperat">hottest years on record</a>.
The Forecast: Nearly 150 million Americans are under heat warnings or watches on Thursday, <a href="https://www.weather.gov/images/crh/dhs/wwa_population.png">per</a> the National Weather Service.
<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/08/01/heat-wave-intensifies-worsening-wildfires">According</a> to Axios, temperatures will exceed 110 degrees in several areas of the country until Aug. 7 — Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Kansas, North and South Dakota, Eastern Washington, inland California and Western Missouri.
There are also excessive heat warnings in regions of Oregon, Montana, Arkansas, Illinois, Mississippi and Tennessee.
The <a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/07/25/wildfires-california-canada-evacuations-jasper">ongoing</a> Park Fire in California is the fifth-largest forest fire in the state&#8217;s history. The fire&#8217;s origin is <a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/07/25/wildfires-california-canada-evacuations-jasper">attributed</a> to extreme heat and dry weather conditions.
The scorching hot temperatures are not just a public health risk. It will also affect several companies with operations in the U.S.
Market Implications: The earth&#8217;s rising temperatures have drastically affected the energy industry, as heat causes outages and operational strain. The use of electricity tends to go up — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/07/40043897/household-energy-bills-rose-over-50-in-3-states-over-past-5-years-but-remained-stable-in-this-region">along with prices</a> — during heat waves as residents stay inside and use air conditioning. Here are a few companies that will invariably be affected:
<ul>
<li>Black Hills Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKH#NYSE">BKH</a>) is a large utility company operating in Nebraska, Kansas and Arkansas — three of the most affected states this week.</li>
<li>OGE Energy Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OGE#NYSE">OGE</a>) is the largest utilities provider in Oklahoma.</li>
<li>Evergy Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVRG#NASDAQ">EVRG</a>) is the largest electricity provider in Kansas.</li>
<li>PG&amp;E Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) operates in California and has taken several wildfire-related losses in the past decade.</li>
</ul>
Home improvement retailers Lowe&#8217;s Companies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LOW#NYSE">LOW</a>) and Home Depot Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) may see increased demand for air conditioning units. Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) also sells air conditioners. 
Generac Holdings Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GNRC#NYSE">GNRC</a>) manufactures generators. Home and industrial generators typically see increased demand following extreme weather events.
The heatwave will also affect the agriculture and food industries:
<ul>
<li>Meat producer Tyson Foods Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSN#NYSE">TSN</a>) has operational centers in several affected states.</li>
<li>There may be an increase in demand for irrigation equipment and heat-resistant machinery manufactured by Deere &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>) and Agco Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AGCO#NYSE">AGCO</a>)</li>
<li>Corteva Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CTVA#NYSE">CTVA</a>) sells crop protection products that help farmers manage drought-induced crop loss.</li>
</ul>
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/08/40103631/us-manufacturing-activity-decreases-for-fourth-straight-month-hits-8-month-low-co">US Manufacturing Activity Decreases For Fourth Straight Month, Hits 8-Month Low: &#8216;Companies Show An Unwillingness To Invest In Capital&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

AGCO

CTVA

EVRG

GNRC

August Heat Wave Grips US: 12 Stocks To Watch As Blistering Temperatures Affect Nearly 150 Million Americans

Energy prices have soared over the past five years as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/climate-change">climate change-induced extreme weather</a> has hit several regions of the United States; meanwhile, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39804299/as-scorching-temperatures-break-records-across-the-us-fight-for-worker-protections-in-extreme-heat-h">record-high temperatures</a> have kept Americans indoors.
A new report contradicts the narrative that the switch to green energy is the sole factor impacting power costs.
The Data: S&amp;P Global released a <a href="https://www.spglobal.com/marketintelligence/en/news-insights/latest-news-headlines/rising-us-power-prices-reflect-new-reality-for-utilities-in-warming-world-82591284">report</a> on Monday recapping five-year trends in household power costs. According to the report, average US household electricity prices rose 21.9% between 2018 and 2023.
Prices rose the most in the following states during that period:
<ul>
<li>Maine — a 65.6% increase.</li>
<li>New Hampshire — a 51.3% increase.</li>
<li>Massachusetts — a 50.5% increase.</li>
<li>Connecticut — a 49% increase.</li>
<li>California — a 47.8% increase.</li>
</ul>
The states mentioned above are concentrated in the U.S. Northeast. Maine had the highest power cost increase of any state — the Maine Public Utilities Commission told S&amp;P Global that the figure was driven by deferred costs of imported natural gas, deferred storm costs and stranded assets from a net metering program.
California stands as an outlier given its West Coast geography. According to California&#8217;s Public Utilities Commission, nearly 13% of the monthly bill that PG&amp;E Corp&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) residential customers paid in 2023 goes toward wildfire mitigation. In 2023, California regulators allowed PG&amp;E to raise $2.6 billion through multiyear rate increases to risk-proof the San Francisco-based company&#8217;s operations. 
Appalachian states also saw substantial price hikes —&nbsp;West Virginia household power rates rose 26% between 2018 and 2023, S&amp;P Global&#8217;s data shows.
However, prices remained stable or even declined in the following Middle American states:
<ul>
<li>North Dakota — a 6.6% increase.</li>
<li>South Dakota — a 4.8% increase.</li>
<li>Nebraska — a 4.4% increase.</li>
<li>Wyoming — a 1.2% decline.</li>
<li>Kansas — a 2.1% decline.</li>
</ul>
Why it Matters: Households have had difficulty keeping up with the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/inflation">rising cost of living</a>.
Nearly 24% of U.S. households said they were unable to pay at least one energy bill in the past 12 months, according to a report from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association and the Center for Energy Poverty and Climate.
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/esg/24/05/39012013/noaa-meteorologists-predict-aggressive-hurricane-season-what-it-means-for-home-depot-generac-other-s">NOAA Meteorologists Predict Aggressive Hurricane Season: What It Means For Home Depot, Generac, Other Storm-Related Stocks</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Household Energy Bills Rose Over 50% In 3 States Over Past 5 Years But Remained Stable In This Region

Barclays analyst Nicholas Campanella maintains PG&amp;E (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $22 to $23.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on PG&E, Raises Price Target to $23

Wells Fargo analyst Neil Kalton maintains PG&amp;E (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $21 to $22.

Wells Fargo Maintains Overweight on PG&E, Raises Price Target to $22

PG&amp;E Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pcg#NYSE">PCG</a>) reported second-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings per share of 31 cents, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 30 cents by 3.3%. The bottom line also improved 34.8% from the year-ago quarter&#39;s reported figure.
The company reported GAAP earnings of 24 cents per share compared with 19 cents in the prior-year quarter.
The year-over-year improvement in the bottom line can be attributed to an increase in customer capital investment and non-fuel operating and maintenance (O&amp;M) savings.
<h3>Revenue Update</h3>
PCG reported second-quarter total revenues of $5.99 billion, up 13.2% from $5.29 billion registered in the year-ago period. Operating revenues also surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.83 billion by 2.7%.
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Co. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise</h3>
<h3><img alt="Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Co. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/ff/1721914359.png" style="height:265px; width:574px" title="" /></h3>
Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Co. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Co. Quote
</div>
<h3>Operational Highlights</h3>
Total operating expenses in the second quarter of 2024 were $4.85 billion, up 1.4% from the prior-year reported figure.
The company reported an operating income of $1.13 billion compared with $0.51 billion a year ago.
Interest expenses totaled $812 million compared with $640 million in the prior-year quarter.
<h3>Financials</h3>
As of Jun 30, 2024, cash and cash equivalents totaled $1.32 billion compared with $0.64 billion as of Dec 31, 2023.
Cash flow from operating activities amounted to $2.97 billion for the second quarter of 2024 compared with $2.46 billion in the second quarter of 2023.
Capital expenditures totaled $4.94 billion during the second quarter compared with $4.68 billion in the corresponding period of 2023.
As of Jun 30, 2024, the long-term debt amounted to $52.66 billion compared with $50.98 billion as of Dec 31, 2023.
<h3>Guidance</h3>
PG&amp;E reaffirmed its 2024 adjusted EPS guidance. The company still expects to generate adjusted earnings in the range of $1.33-$1.37 per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings is pegged at $1.35 per share, which came in line with the midpoint of the company&#39;s guided range.
<h3>Zacks Rank</h3>
PG&amp;E currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
<h3>Recent Utility Releases</h3>
AVANGRID, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/agr#NYSE">AGR</a>) reported second-quarter 2024 earnings of 49 cents per share, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 27 cents by 81.5%. The bottom line also increased 133.3% from the year-ago quarter&#39;s figure of 21 cents.
Operating revenues amounted to $1.92 billion, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.72 billion by 11.9%. The top line also increased 21.2% from $1.59 billion reported in the comparable period of 2023.
NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nee#NYSE">NEE</a>) reported second-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings of 96 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 93 cents by 3.2%. The bottom line was also up nearly 9.1% year over year.
In the second quarter, NextEra Energy&#39;s operating revenues were $6.06 billion, which lagged the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $7.26 billion by 16.8%. The top line plunged 17.4% year over year.
CMS Energy Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cms#NYSE">CMS</a>) reported second-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings per share of 66 cents, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 63 cents by 4.8%. However, the bottom line declined 12% from 75 cents reported in the prior-year quarter.
Operating revenues totaled $1.61 billion, which lagged the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.69 billion by 5%. However, the top line increased 3.3% on a year-over-year basis.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2309167/pg-e-pcg-q2-earnings-top-estimates-revenues-increase-y-y?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2309167">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Earnings

Earnings Beats

Guidance

PG&E Q2 Earnings Top Estimates, Revenues Increase Y/Y

To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<img alt="" src="https://thearorareport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2024-07-25_08h55_20.png" style="height:394px; width:700px" />
<h3>GDP Brings Buying&nbsp;</h3>
Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/chart-analysis-stock-market-ai-frenzy-cools-air-threat-yen-rises-qqq-mc-07252024">click here</a> for an enlarged&nbsp;chart of Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqq#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>The chart shows a drop in QQQ.&nbsp; The drop in QQQ was triggered by speculative sentiment pulling back.&nbsp; As a reader&nbsp;of The Arora Report, you knew in advance that speculative sentiment could fall as a result of Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsla#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) earnings.</li>
<li>The chart shows that QQQ is approaching the support zone.</li>
<li>RSI on the chart shows that QQQ is now oversold.&nbsp; Oversold markets tend to bounce.</li>
<li>The chart shows that the volume was low on the selloff.&nbsp; This indicates a lack of conviction in selling.</li>
<li>Especially hard hit in yesterday&rsquo;s selloff were AI stocks as the AI frenzy cools.
<ul>
<li>AI stocks that are semiconductor stocks are partially hedged in The Arora Report&#39;s portfolio.&nbsp; The plan is to take profits on hedges if these stocks fall further.</li>
<li>As full disclosure, AI stocks in the portfolio include&nbsp;Apple Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Analog Devices, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/adi#NASDAQ">ADI</a>), Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amat#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amzn#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/goog#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), Mongodb Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mdb#NASDAQ">MDB</a>), Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/msft#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nvda#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Micron Technology Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mu#NASDAQ">MU</a>), NXP Semiconductors NV (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nxpi#NASDAQ">NXPI</a>), PG&amp;E Corp (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pcg#NYSE">PCG</a>), Quanta Services Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pwr#NYSE">PWR</a>), and Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qcom#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>).</li>
<li>At present, the AI stock with the best risk reward ratio is MSFT.</li>
<li>As full disclosure, AI and technology ETFs of interest in The Arora Report&#39;s ZYX Allocation Model Portfolio are Global X Artificial Intelligence &amp; Technology ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aiq#NASDAQ">AIQ</a>), VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/smh#NASDAQ">SMH</a>), and iShares US Technology ETF (ARCA: IYW).</li>
<li>The AI ETF with the best risk reward ratio at present is AIQ.</li>
<li>Keep in mind, risk reward ratios are dynamic and change.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Since AI stocks have run up so much in 2024, even with yesterday&rsquo;s selloff there is risk in buying AI stocks right here.</li>
<li>Q2 GDP-Adv came at 2.8% vs. 1.9% consensus.&nbsp; This stronger than expected data is bringing buying into the stock market.&nbsp; The reason is that a part of the drop in the stock market yesterday was on concerns that the economy was weakening too fast.</li>
<li>In The Arora Report analysis, investors should not be too enamored with buying on strong GDP data.&nbsp; The reason is that GDP is a lagging indicator.&nbsp; The Arora Report system that includes <a href="https://thearorareport.com/zyxmethod">ZYX Change Method</a> and <a href="https://thearorareport.com/ALLOCATION%2BMODELS.htm">ZYX Asset Allocation Model</a> is based on leading indicators. </li>
<li>Durable goods orders show weakness in transportation orders.&nbsp; Here are the details:
<ul>
<li>Headline durable orders came at -6.6% vs. 0.4% consensus.</li>
<li>Durable orders ex-transport came at 0.5% vs. 0.2% consensus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Initial jobless claims came at 235K vs. 240K consensus.&nbsp;&nbsp;Initial jobless claims is a leading indicator and carries heavy weight in our adaptive&nbsp;<a href="https://thearorareport.com/ALLOCATION%2BMODELS.htm" target="_blank">ZYX Asset Allocation Model</a>&nbsp;with inputs in&nbsp;<a href="https://thearorareport.com/unique-zyx-asset-allocation-4/" target="_blank">ten categories</a>.&nbsp; In plain English, adaptiveness means that the model changes itself with market conditions.&nbsp; Please&nbsp;<a href="https://thearorareport.com/unique-zyx-asset-allocation-3/" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;to see how this is achieved.&nbsp; One of the reasons behind The Arora Report&rsquo;s unrivaled performance in both bull and bear markets is the adaptiveness of the model.&nbsp; Most models on Wall Street are static.&nbsp; They work for a while and then stop working when market conditions change.</li>
<li>The yen is rising on expectations that the Bank of Japan will raise rates.&nbsp; The rising yen is hammering gold, bitcoin, and oil.&nbsp; This is also bringing selling into the U.S. stock market as many funds borrow in yen and buy U.S. stocks.&nbsp; As full disclosure, there is a position in yen ETF&nbsp;Invesco CurrencyShares Japanese Yen Trust&nbsp;(ARCA:&nbsp;FXY) in The Arora Report&#39;s ZYX Allocation Model Portfolio.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3>Stunning Yen Rise</h3>
The Japanese currency yen is experiencing a stunning rise, reaching its highest level in two months against the dollar.&nbsp; The reason is an expectation that the interest rate gap between the U.S. and Japan will narrow.
<h3>First Ever Joint Air Threat</h3>
For the first time ever, two Chinese and two Russian aircraft operating together challenged U.S. aircraft in Alaska.&nbsp; This indicates that China and Russia sense weakness in the U.S. and are getting bolder.&nbsp; 
The momo crowd is oblivious, but prudent investors should pay attention to the protection band &ndash; this is one of the many geopolitical situations that is taken into account when determining the protection band.
<h3>Surprise China Rate Cut</h3>
The People&rsquo;s Bank of China (PBOC), in a surprise, cut the interest rate on one year loans by 20 basis points to 2.3%.&nbsp; This indicates that PBOC is stepping up to support China&rsquo;s economy in the wake of slowing Chinese consumers.
<h3>Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h3>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in AMZN, META, and TSLA.
In the early trade, money flows are neutral in AAPL and MSFT.
In the early trade, money flows are negative in GOOG and NVDA.
In the early trade, money flows are negative in SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (ARCA:SPY) and Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqq#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
<h3>Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h3>
Investors can gain an edge by knowing money flows in SPY and QQQ. &nbsp;Investors can get a bigger edge by knowing when smart money is buying stocks, gold, and oil. &nbsp;The most popular ETF for gold is SPDR Gold Trust (ARCA:GLD). &nbsp;The most popular ETF for silver is iShares Silver Trust (ARCA:SLV). &nbsp;The most popular ETF for oil is United States Oil ETF (ARCA:USO).
<h3>Bitcoin</h3>
Buying in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) on the Trump strategic reserve rumor is being countered by rising yen bringing selling into bitcoin.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Protection Band And What To Do Now</h3>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp; The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
A protection band of 0% would be very bullish and would indicate full investment with 0% in cash.&nbsp; A protection band of 100% would be very bearish and would indicate a need for aggressive protection with cash and hedges or aggressive short selling.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp; When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h3>Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h3>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of five year duration or less.&nbsp; Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever <a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter-benzinga">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

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AI Frenzy Cools, Yen Hammers Gold And Bitcoin, First Ever Joint Air Threat From Russia And China

PG&E Sees 2024 Non-GAAP Core EPS $1.33-$1.37 vs $1.36 Est.

PG&amp;E (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.31 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.30 by 3.33 percent. The company reported quarterly sales of $5.986 billion which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $5.902 billion by 1.42 percent. This is a 13.16 percent increase over sales of $5.290 billion the same period last year.

PG&E Q2 2024 Adj EPS $0.31 Beats $0.30 Estimate, Sales $5.986B Beat $5.902B Estimate

Barclays analyst Nicholas Campanella maintains PG&amp;E (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $21 to $22.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on PG&E, Raises Price Target to $22

PG&amp;E's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) short percent of float has fallen 3.21% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 35.30 million shares sold short, which is 1.51% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.09 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>PG&amp;E Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721311222_0_1.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for PG&amp;E has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing PG&amp;E's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, PG&amp;E's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 2.53%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Peering Into PG&E's Recent Short Interest

PG&amp;E Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pcg#NYSE">PCG</a>) is poised to benefit from positive developments like steady infrastructural investments, the addition of clean energy projects and initiatives to build California&#39;s electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Let&#39;s focus on the factors that make this Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock a good investment option at the moment.
<h3>Rising Estimates</h3>
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PCG&#39;s 2024 and 2025 earnings per share implies growth of 9.8% and 8.4%, respectively, from the year-ago levels.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PCG&#39;s 2024 and 2025 sales indicates a rise of 4.9% and 4.1%, respectively, from the prior-year figures.
<h3>Better-Than-Industry Returns&nbsp;</h3>
PCG&#39;s return on invested capital has outperformed the industry&#39;s average in the trailing 12 months. ROIC of PCG was 5.05% compared with the industry average of 3.41%. The company has been investing effectively in profitable projects, which is evident from its ROIC.
PCG&#39;s trailing 12-month return on equity is 11.32%, ahead of the industry&#39;s average of 9.72%. Return on equity, a profitability measure, reflects how effectively a company utilizes its shareholders&#39; funds to generate income.
<h3>Capital Expenditure</h3>
PG&amp;E continues to make considerable investments in gas-related projects and electric system safety and reliability to further strengthen its grid and thereby boost customer satisfaction. To this end, the company invested $9.8 billion in 2023. Looking ahead, management aims to make investments worth $10.4 billion in 2024. For 2024-2028, the company expects to invest $62 billion.
<h3>Solvency Ratio</h3>
The times interest earned ratio at the end of first-quarter 2024 is 1.42, which indicates financial strength of the company and its ability to meet short-term obligations or dues within the next 12 months.
<h3>Price Movement</h3>
In the past three months, PCG&#39;s shares have risen 6.3% compared with the&nbsp;industry&#39;s growth of 3.6%.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/b7/71087.jpg?v=919184366" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h3>Other Key Picks</h3>
Some other top-ranked stocks from the same industry are CenterPoint Energy (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cnp#NYSE">CNP</a>), FirstEnergy (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fe#NYSE">FE</a>) and Consolidated Edison (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ed#NYSE">ED</a>), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CenterPoint Energy, FirstEnergy and Consolidated Edison&#39;s 2024 earnings reflects year-over-year growth of 8%, 5.1% and 3.1%, respectively.
The long-term (three-to-five years) earnings growth rate of CenterPoint Energy, FirstEnergy, and Consolidated Edison is 7%, 5.9% and 7.4%, respectively.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2300081/reasons-to-add-pg-e-pcg-stock-to-your-portfolio-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|rank_focused-2300081">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

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