Latest news for American Environmental (OTC:AEPT) Stock

American Environmental Partners Inc Formerly American Energy Partners Inc is an American conglomerate holding company comprised of nine subsidiaries that provide shareholder value through the acquisition and growth of energy assets, energy, and infrastructure services, and the design, build, and operations of regional water treatment facilities. The Company has two operating business segments, consisting of oil and natural gas sales from its wells through Gilbert Oil and Gas (GOG), Oil and Gas Management (OGM), and Dahlmont, and environmental services provided by AMS, UES, and APEX.

AMERICAN ENGY PARTNERS by American Energy Partners, Inc.

American Environmental Partners Inc

Retail investors can make a bet or take on an opposing view with increased odds of success whenever a market gets too crowded on the long or short side. Like the 2008 financial crisis, when everyone bet in favor of housing only to find out they all had to run for the exit all at once, only a few investors could spot this unfair advantage opportunity.
In today&#39;s stock market, investors can look at this report from Bank of America, which covers the weighing in thematic trades and investments. The most crowded trade is now in the United States&#39; so-called &quot;Magnificent Seven&quot; stocks; the second most crowded trade is shorting Chinese stocks. Now that everyone is rushing to close their shorts, Chinese names like&nbsp;Alibaba Group (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/baba#NYSE">BABA</a>)&nbsp;and&nbsp;Baidu Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/bidu#NASDAQ">BIDU</a>) have triggered a major short squeeze.
The same could happen if any downturn were to occur in crowded technology stocks like Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>), Apple Inc., and even investor favorite Tesla Inc.&nbsp;A rush to exit these names at once could cause what&#39;s termed a pain trade, where most of the participants will be brought to maximum risk tolerance and forced to liquidate and accelerate the selloff.
<h2>Pain Trade #1: Why Tesla Stock Could Be at Risk </h2>
Tesla is riding on two major tailwinds and thesis today. First, the robotaxi unveiling might or might not be here as soon as investors think. Second, the pace of delivery numbers to be released this week places a significant weight on the potential future path of Tesla stock.
The good news for bulls is that China is back online, and Tesla has been expanding its footprint in Asia&#39;s powerhouse. Peers in the region, like NIO Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nio#NYSE">NIO</a>) and BYD (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/byddf#OTC">BYDDF</a>), have both reported record deliveries for the third quarter, with BYD hitting a significant 1 million milestone in deliveries.
Now, here&#39;s the bad news. Tesla stock trades at a price-to-book (P/B) of 12.4x today, compared to NIO stock&#39;s 6.7x and BYD&#39;s 6.4x valuations today. In the United States, most automotive stocks trade at an average P/B valuation of less than 1.5x, which means Tesla&#39;s potential delivery growth might already be priced into the stock today.
This means that, even if delivery numbers are bullish, Tesla has little room to keep moving higher. This is why Wall Street analysts now only forecast $0.63 earnings per share (EPS) in the next 12 months, calling for net growth of 21.1% from today&#39;s $.52.
While this EPS growth may be impressive, the issue of it already being priced into the stock remains. Those at Guggenheim landed on a $153 price target for Tesla stock, calling for as much as 40.1% downside from where the stock trades today. Even the consensus of $209.9 is bad enough to call for an 18.6% downside for Tesla.
<h2>Pain Trade #2: Why Apple Is No Longer a Buffett Favorite</h2>
That&#39;s right. Warren Buffett cut as much as 50% of his stake in Apple stock during the past quarter. While he quoted the sale as being driven by tax efficiency purposes, a deeper reason could be related to the weakening consumer discretionary sector.
With new interest rate cuts coming from the Federal Reserve (the Fed), the dollar is set to weaken, as interest rates are one of the main drivers of currency valuations. This means the U.S. consumer will suffer from even thinner buying power after inflation has already had its round of negative effects on it.
Even though Apple is an international giant able to cushion whatever consumption tailwinds come from the United States, the same reasoning applies when it comes to pricing in this safety and growth potential. Apple stock now trades at 51.6x P/B compared to other peers in the technology space, like Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/googl#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) and its 6.9x valuation.
Analysts at Barclays now see a valuation of $186 for Apple stock, which calls for a net downside of 17.8% from where the stock trades today. This reiterates the potential for Apple to become a pain trade in the coming months.
<h2>Pain Trade #3: Meta&#39;s Heavy Cash Outlay Mirrors the Metaverse Flop</h2>
In 2022, Meta stock traded down to $90, one of the lowest prices seen since the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason for the crash was the strategy behind the Metaverse, which burned through billions of the company&#39;s free cash flow in a project that never took off.
The same cycle is happening today as Meta looks for new disruptive ideas and technologies to make a new splash; Mark Zuckerberg (Meta&#39;s CEO) has decided to venture into artificial intelligence glasses that could supposedly replace smartphones if done right.
How much cash will Meta burn through this time on this project, and will it have any return? Investors do know that the stock trades at its 52-week high, and analysts at Goldman Sachs don&#39;t think it can break through that ceiling.
With a $555 share price target, Goldman Sachs thinks Meta has a potential downside of 5% from where it trades today. However, that could only be the tip of the iceberg, as the financial impacts of this new project are not yet known.
The article &quot;<a href="https://www.marketbeat.com/stock-ideas/why-the-magnificent-7-could-become-a-pain-trade-for-investors/">Why the Magnificent 7 Could Become a Pain Trade for Investors</a>&quot; first appeared on MarketBeat.

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Why the Magnificent 7 Could Become a Pain Trade for Investors

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FANG#NASDAQ">FANG</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with FANG, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 17 uncommon options trades for Diamondback Energy.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 47% bullish and 41%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 5 are puts, for a total amount of $410,350, and 12 are calls, for a total amount of $707,191.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $160.0 to $270.0 for Diamondback Energy over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for Diamondback Energy options trades today is 291.67 with a total volume of 1,467.00.
In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for Diamondback Energy's big money trades within a strike price range of $160.0 to $270.0 over the last 30 days.
<h3>Diamondback Energy 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727984114_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>FANG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$30.0</td>
<td>$28.6</td>
<td>$30.0</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$180.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">72</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">60</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FANG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$30.4</td>
<td>$28.6</td>
<td>$30.4</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$152.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">35</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FANG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$12.6</td>
<td>$12.4</td>
<td>$12.6</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$127.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">12</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">201</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FANG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$13.1</td>
<td>$13.1</td>
<td>$13.1</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$125.7K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">12</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">96</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FANG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$34.2</td>
<td>$32.6</td>
<td>$33.6</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$67.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">35</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">70</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Diamondback Energy</h3>
Diamondback Energy is an independent oil and gas producer in the United States. The company operates exclusively in the Permian Basin. At the end of 2023, the company reported net proven reserves of 2.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent. Net production averaged about 448,000 barrels per day in 2023, at a ratio of 59% oil, 21% natural gas liquids, and 20% natural gas.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Diamondback Energy</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 2,110,699, the FANG's price is up by 3.98%, now at $188.5. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 32 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Diamondback Energy</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $216.2.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from RBC Capital lowers its rating to Outperform with a new price target of $220. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wells Fargo keeps a Overweight rating on Diamondback Energy with a target price of $219. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from UBS keeps a Buy rating on Diamondback Energy with a target price of $223. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from JP Morgan lowers its rating to Overweight with a new price target of $182. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Susquehanna has decided to maintain their Positive rating on Diamondback Energy, which currently sits at a price target of $237. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Diamondback Energy with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

FANG

Decoding Diamondback Energy's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on PDD Holdings. Our analysis of options history for PDD Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PDD#NASDAQ">PDD</a>) revealed 100 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 42% of traders were bullish, while 44% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 23 were puts, with a value of $9,080,401, and 77 were calls, valued at $14,422,929.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $100.0 to $200.0 for PDD Holdings during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for PDD Holdings's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of PDD Holdings's whale activity within a strike price range from $100.0 to $200.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>PDD Holdings Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727984109_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PDD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$66.0</td>
<td>$63.6</td>
<td>$65.2</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$1.9M</td>
<td>15.6K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PDD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$66.05</td>
<td>$65.2</td>
<td>$65.2</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$1.9M</td>
<td>15.6K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PDD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$65.6</td>
<td>$64.35</td>
<td>$65.0</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$1.9M</td>
<td>15.6K</td>
<td>322</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PDD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$64.95</td>
<td>$64.35</td>
<td>$64.95</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$1.9M</td>
<td>15.6K</td>
<td>922</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PDD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$30.15</td>
<td>$29.45</td>
<td>$30.05</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$300.5K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>110</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About PDD Holdings</h3>
PDD Holdings is a multinational commerce group that owns and operates a portfolio of businesses. PDD aims to bring more businesses and people into the digital economy so that local communities and small businesses can benefit from the increased productivity and new opportunities. PDD has built a network of sourcing, logistics, and fulfillment capabilities that support its underlying businesses.
<h3>Where Is PDD Holdings Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 15,368,868, the price of PDD is up by 0.59%, reaching $153.61.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 54 days from now.</li>
</ul>
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>.
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for PDD Holdings with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Citigourp Global Markets 2% Protected Notes Linked To The Djia

Check Out What Whales Are Doing With PDD

WIIM

Toyota Motor shares are trading lower after the company announced the delay of EV production in North America due to slowing sales.

Congratulations on reaching the coveted $1 million retirement savings milestone! You&#8217;re among an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/41075540/is-your-401-k-balance-above-average-find-out-if-youre-beating-most-savers">elite group of savers</a>.&nbsp;
According to data from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI), only about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/06/39142377/what-percentage-of-people-retire-with-a-1-million-nest-egg-its-far-less-than-youd-expect">3.2% of Americans have $1 million</a> or more in their retirement accounts.
Now that you&#8217;ve achieved this impressive goal, the crucial question is: How much can you spend each year without depleting your savings?
Don't Miss:
<ul>
<li>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?</li>
<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? &#8211;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/retire-5mil-nest-egg"> How does it compare to the average?</a></li>
</ul>
The 4% Rule
Traditionally, financial planners have recommended the 4% rule. This rule suggests withdrawing 4% of your initial balance in the first year of retirement and adjusting that amount for inflation in subsequent years.
For a $1 million portfolio, this would mean:
<ul>
<li>First-year withdrawal: $40,000</li>
<li>Assuming 2% annual inflation, second-year withdrawal: $40,800</li>
</ul>
However, given current economic conditions, some experts now consider this rule outdated.
Trending: Founder of Personal Capital and ex-CEO of PayPal<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/evergreen-money"> re-engineers traditional banking with this new high-yield account — start saving better today.</a>
Conservative 3.3% Approach
A 2021 study by Morningstar suggested a more conservative 3.3% initial withdrawal rate for those hoping to sustain their portfolio for 30 years.&nbsp;
For a $1 million portfolio, this would mean:
<ul>
<li>First-year withdrawal: $33,000</li>
<li>With a 2% inflation rate, the second-year withdrawal would be approximately $33,660.</li>
</ul>
However, as of 2023, Morningstar has revised its recommendation. Their latest research suggests that retirees can safely withdraw 4.0% of their portfolio with a 90% chance of still having funds after 30 years. This update is primarily due to stronger bond yields and lower projected inflation than earlier estimates.
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/irs-finalizes-10-year-rule-adv">IRS Finalizes 10-Year Rule For Retirement Withdrawals, Making Things &#8216;Even More Insanely Complicated&#8217;</a>
Retirees can start with this slightly higher rate without risking their long-term financial security in a balanced portfolio with 20% to 40% in equities and the rest in bonds and cash.
Morningstar notes that more flexible withdrawal strategies – such as adjusting based on portfolio performance – could even allow for higher withdrawal rates (up to 5.2%) under certain conditions. But these come with trade-offs, including potentially smaller ending balances after 30 years.
Trending: Beating the market through ethical real estate investing' — t<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/invest-with-roots">his platform aims to give tenants equity in the homes they live in while scoring 17.17% average annual returns for investors – here&#8217;s how to join with just $100</a>
The Debate: 3.3% vs. 4.0%
Some financial experts, like Suze Orman, still <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/38618728/suze-orman-calls-the-4-retirement-rule-very-dangerous-in-todays-challenging-economic-climate">advocate for more conservative withdrawal rates</a>. Orman recommends that retirees err on the side of caution, as unexpected life events, market downturns, or personal emergencies can strain savings. For those who prioritize financial security over risk, sticking to a 3.3% rate may provide more peace of mind, especially if they have a lower risk tolerance or prefer to leave a legacy behind.
Spending For A 20-Year Retirement
Your expected retirement duration significantly impacts how much you can safely withdraw. Research from Western Carolina University suggests that for a 20-year retirement, initial withdrawal rates between 5.8% and 6.3% may be appropriate for moderately conservative portfolios.&nbsp;
For a $1 million portfolio over 20 years, this could mean:
<ul>
<li>Annual withdrawal: $58,000 to $63,000</li>
</ul>
Trending: These five entrepreneurs are worth $223 billion –<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-homes-private-credit-fund"> they all believe in one platform that offers a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends</a>
Putting Your Retirement Plan Into Action
Having $1 million saved for retirement gives you a great foundation, but planning is key to making it last. The important thing is to review your strategy regularly and make adjustments as needed.
It's always a good idea to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/can-you-guess-how-many-americans-successfully-retire-with-1-million-saved"> talk to a financial advisor</a> to tailor a plan that fits your goals. Ultimately, retirement is about enjoying your savings while ensuring you have enough to maintain your lifestyle and security for the long run.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund"> would you invest in it</a>?</li>
<li>How do billionaires pay less in income tax than you?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/tax-deferring-adv"> Tax deferring is their number one strategy</a>.</li>
</ul>

Personal Finance

I Have A $1 Million Nest Egg For Retirement – How Much Can I Safely Spend Each Year To Avoid Running Out Of Money?

Diamondback Energy shares are trading higher after Benchmark maintained a Buy rating on the stock and raised its price target from $154 to $195.

Groupon, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/grpn#NASDAQ">GRPN</a>) has seen its stock decline 25.2% year to date (YTD) against the Zacks Internet-Commerce industry&#39;s growth of 22.9%, the broader retail sector&#39;s return of 19.4% and the S&amp;P 500 index&#39;s rally of 20%.
GRPN, which has emerged as a two-sided global marketplace company, has been suffering from its weakening momentum in the international market. Unexpected site stability issues related to its cloud migration project have also been heavily affecting the company&#39;s performance.
Groupon&#39;s business model makes it heavily dependent on daily deals, which is a major headwind. Since most of the offerings are consumer discretionary products, demand is heavily dependent on macroeconomic conditions. Given this, the ongoing market uncertainties, persistent inflation, looming recessionary fears, changing consumer demand and spending patterns are dampening the company&#39;s near-term prospects.
<h2>Year-to-Date Price Performance</h2>
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/40/80256.jpg?v=610392595" style="border-style:solid; border-width:1px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
GRPN&#39;s bearish guidance is a negative. For 2024, the company expects revenues between $495 million and $515 million, indicating a year-over-year change between (4%) and 0%. The Zacks Consensus Estimates for 2024 revenues is pegged at $514.51 million, implying a year-over-year decline of 0.1%.
The company operates in a highly competitive market, wherein it faces significant competition from the likes of Yelp (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/yelp#NYSE">YELP</a>), Rakuten, Travelzoo (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tzoo#NASDAQ">TZOO</a>) and Wowcher.
Groupon&#39;s solid momentum in its marketplace platform and strength in its e-commerce business model are major positives. Its large-scale global operations and growing relationship with third-party merchants reflect the company&#39;s upside potential, which bodes well for its long-term prospects.
Given the YTD dip in GRPN shares, investors are questioning whether this is the right time to buy the stock. Let us explore this in more detail.
<h2>E-commerce Strategies to Drive GRPN&#39;s Prospects</h2>
Groupon, through its e-commerce platform, offers numerous deals that can be accessed by users anywhere at any time.
GRPN&#39;s strategy to build a trusted marketplace, wherein customers purchase local services and experiences, is a major positive. For this, the company&#39;s growing efforts to build long-term relationships with local merchants to strengthen its inventory selection remain noteworthy.
It strives to deliver enhanced customer experience through inventory curation and improved convenience in order to boost purchase frequency on its platform.
To strengthen the platform, the company is lifting restrictions on its deeply discounted deals and is enabling customers to purchase such deals more than once to improve the frequency and drive growth in billings.
Growing momentum across the North America region has been driving growth in the company&#39;s Local segment, which contributes the most to GRPN&#39;s total revenues and remains crucial for its e-commerce business. In second-quarter 2024, Local revenues were $114.1 million (92% of total revenues), driven by North America Local revenues, which grew 7.3% year over year.
Groupon&#39;s long-term prospects rest upon its ability to offer more innovative products and build a broader Local e-commerce platform.&nbsp;
The company&#39;s strengthening supply drivers for North America Local are tailwinds. Groupon is witnessing growing traction among large enterprise merchants, thanks to expanding 
relationships with existing partners, and the addition of brands to the platform.
GRPN&#39;s initiatives to remove lower-quality deals from its site that do not align with the brand promise are a plus. Groupon also made substantial progress in curating its deals, with an enhanced presentation, improved deal copy and better images.
Solid demand for family-friendly activities, ranging from trampoline parks and bowling alleys to amusement parks and water parks, is another positive. The company expects to see continued growth in these areas in the days ahead.
Growing momentum in Groupon&#39;s latest initiative called Flash Sale, which was tested first in first-quarter 2024 with one enterprise merchant, is noteworthy. The Flash Sale concept boosted its performance and, hence, the company expanded this program in second-quarter 2024, running over a dozen flash sales with existing merchants to drive performance and boost engagement on its site. Although the initiative is fresh and new, it reflects the company&#39;s potential to expand its business by developing products to cross-sell and up-sell into its supply base.
Groupon&#39;s AI initiative is a major plus. AI integration has enabled it to improve the copywriting of its deals and deal creation process. It leverages AI on projects in product and engineering to improve deal recommendation and quality assurance. Improvements in enterprise sales organization and process changes, combined with value proposition changes, continue to contribute to growth in its enterprise accounts.
<h2>Upward Earnings Trend Paints Bright Picture for GRPN</h2>
Investors are turning bullish about Groupon&#39;s upside potential, which is reflected in the upward revisions in earnings estimates.
For 2024, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 47 cents per share, whereas the company reported a 2023 loss of 52 cents. The estimate has been revised upward by 56.7% over the past 60 days.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/fa/80258.jpg?v=1264508241" style="border-style:solid; border-width:1px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Attractive Valuation: A Silver Lining for GRPN</h2>
Groupon is currently trading at a discount with a forward 12-month Price/Sales of 0.7X compared with the industry&#39;s 1.72X and lower than the median of 0.84X. This indicates an excellent opportunity for investors.
GRPN also has a Value Score of B, which is hard to ignore.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/56/80257.jpg?v=1027816364" style="border-style:solid; border-width:1px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
Despite near-term hurdles, Groupon&#39;s strong marketplace, robust e-commerce business model, growing merchants base and solid supply drivers present a solid investment opportunity for growth-seeking investors.
Its attractive valuation and Growth Score of A make a compelling case for buying the GRPN stock at its current levels.
Groupon sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2345645/groupon-shares-decline-25-2-ytd-should-you-buy-the-dip-right-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|most_popular_stocks-2345645">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Mid Cap

Guidance

Retail Sales

Small Cap

GRPN

TZOO

YELP

Groupon Shares Decline 25.2% YTD: Should You Buy the Dip Right Now?

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against several major insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), alleging a conspiracy to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40560002/governments-suing-pharmacy-benefit-managers-over-insulin-prices-have-long-benefited-from-their-r" rel="noreferrer noopener">inflate insulin prices</a>.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-sues-big-pharma-drug-manufacturers-and-pharmacy-benefit-managers" rel="noreferrer noopener">lawsuit</a> targets pharmaceutical companies such as Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) and PBMs, including Cigna Corp's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) Express Scripts and CVS Health Inc's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>) CVS Pharmacy, accusing them of engaging in an unlawful scheme to raise insulin prices.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40964870/us-federal-trade-commission-sues-cvs-health-cigna-unitedhealths-pharmacy-benefit-managers-for-infl" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Federal Trade Commission Sues CVS Health, Cigna, UnitedHealth's Pharmacy Benefit Managers For Inflating Insulin Prices</a>.
According to the lawsuit, insulin manufacturers artificially raised the prices of their drugs while paying PBMs a significant, undisclosed portion in return for preferred placement in PBM offerings.
The PBMs allegedly rewarded the manufacturers with the highest list prices by giving their products preferred status while excluding more affordable alternatives.
These insulin drugs, which cost manufacturers less than $2 to produce, were introduced in the late 1990s at $20 per vial. However, prices have now soared to between $300 and $700 per vial.
Over the past decade, some manufacturers have raised insulin prices by as much as 1,000%.
Paxton expressed outrage over the alleged scheme, stating, "This is a disturbing conspiracy by which pharmaceutical companies were intentionally and artificially inflating the price of insulin. Big Pharma insulin manufacturers and PBMs worked together to take advantage of diabetes patients and drive prices as high as they could." He vowed to hold these companies accountable for their actions.
The complaint further claims that while PBMs have publicly positioned themselves as entities working to reduce drug prices and improve treatment access, their actions tell a different story.
The lawsuit argues that the PBMs have colluded with insulin manufacturers to manipulate the market for their financial gain, all at the expense of Texas diabetics and healthcare payors.
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</ul>
Photo by towfiqu barbhuiya via unsplash

Government

Health Care

Legal

General

Texas Attorney General Sues Insulin Manufacturers and Pharmacy Benefit Managers Over Price-Fixing Conspiracy That Increased Prices by 1,000%

Deutsche Bank analyst Scott Deuschle maintains Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) with a Buy, raising the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LMT/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast from&nbsp;$600&nbsp;to&nbsp;$620.</a>
The analyst suggests that Lockheed Martin likely prefunds its pension in the fourth quarter, although the company may delay a formal announcement until after it&#8217;s completed.
Deuschle adds that the associated debt issuance for this funding is expected to occur sooner.
The analyst forecasts third-quarter EPS of $6.70, approximately 4% above the Street&#8217;s estimate of $6.47.
Deuschle sees revenue of around $17.4 billion, which is $100 million below the Street&#8217;s expectation, as the analyst incorporates the $500 million F-35 contract delay impact at Aeronautics, which is not fully reflected in the Street&#8217;s projections.
The analyst identifies the greatest upside potential in Space, noting that underlying margins excluding United Launch Alliance (ULA)&nbsp;are expected to decline significantly in the second half.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/09/41012117/lockheed-martins-unit-secures-contract-for-ch-53k-gearbox-assemblies" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lockheed Martin&#8217;s Unit Secures Contract for CH-53K Gearbox Assemblies</a>
This outlook seems conservative, considering that two major contracts—Orion and OPIR—are entering a highly mature phase of their production lifecycle.
The analyst projects a third-quarter revenue beat, which may lead to an upward revision of the full-year revenue guidance, potentially nearing $72 billion.
Deuschle also sees a 1%-2% increase to the midpoint of the full-year segment EBIT guidance, especially if EBIT upside is realized in Space during the third quarter, as seen in the first half.
The analyst sees the company offer some indication for 2025 financial trends.
Given the firm&#8217;s conservative track record, the analyst sees the company is likely to project approximately 3% revenue growth and reiterates its target for 10-20 basis points of margin expansion.
Deuschle also projects a dividend increase announcement ahead of earnings, and the buyback authorization will likely be topped up.
Price Action: LMT shares are trading lower by 0.29% to $601.79 at last check Thursday.
Photo via Shutterstock
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/10/41166723/how-many-evs-has-tesla-delivered-produced-each-quarter-a-look-at-the-results-since-2019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">How Many EVs Has Tesla Delivered, Produced Each Quarter? A Look At The Results Since 2019</a></li>
</ul>

Analyst Color

Equities

Reiteration

Lockheed Martin's Greatest Upside Potential Is In Space: Analyst Sees Dividend Hikes, Buyback Top Ups

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) is gearing up for a $783 million debt sale, coinciding with a busy October that features the highly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40808924/tesla-robotaxi-event-to-be-held-in-los-angeles-on-1010-says-senior-company-exec-existing-shareholder">anticipated Robotaxi Day.</a>
What Happened: Tesla, which recently<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41141444/tesla-stock-plunges-3-despite-q3-deliveries-exceeding-consensus-and-growing-year-over-year"> reported third-quarter delivery</a> and production figures, could price its debt sale as early as next week.
The debt sale, which is being run by Societe Generale, would see Tesla provide the backing of prime borrowers' car leases, as reported by <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-03/tesla-plans-783-million-debt-sale-backed-by-prime-leases?srnd=homepage-americas&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">Bloomberg</a>.
According to the report, this would mark Tesla&#8217;s second financing this year. Tesla raised $750 million in March.
By leveraging its car leases, Tesla would join other automakers in using asset-backed securities as a tool to finance future growth.
Tesla has previously used asset-backed securities for funding, but not as much as its U.S. automotive rivals, the report said.
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</ul>
 What's Next: The financing news follows Tesla&#8217;s third-quarter delivery figures and comes ahead of several key October catalysts, which could lead to significant volatility in the company&#8217;s stock.
Tesla will host its Robotaxi Day on Oct. 10 and report third-quarter financial results on Oct. 23, which mark two of the biggest company events in the last three months of the calendar year.
The company will<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41027049/tesla-returns-to-paris-motor-show-for-first-time-in-6-years-cybertruck-to-be-featured-will-elon-musk"> also exhibit multiple models</a>, including the Cybertruck, at the Paris Auto Show from Oct. 14 to Oct. 20. This marks Tesla's first appearance at the auto show in six years.
TSLA Price Action: Tesla stock was down 4% to $238.26 on Thursday, compared to a 52-week trading range of $138.80 to $271.00. It is down 4.1% year-to-date in 2024.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/10/41166723/how-many-evs-has-tesla-delivered-produced-each-quarter-a-look-at-the-results-since-2019">How Many EVs Has Tesla Delivered, Produced Each Quarter? A Look At The Results Since 2019</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

TSLA

Tesla Uses Auto Leases To Back $783M Debt Sale: Report

FFWM

First Foundation shares are trading higher after the company announced it will be reclassifying $1.9 billion from its multifamily portfolio from loans held to maturity to loans held for sale.

Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) owned streaming platform AppleTV+ is one of the smaller players in<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/streaming"> the streaming market.</a>
When it comes to star power, Apple has landed some big names. A movie with two of the biggest actors around could help boost the future outlook.
What Happened: With ballooning budgets and tough decisions on whether to play movies in cinemas, and then stream them on AppleTV+, the technology giant recently announced it would <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41073117/apples-reviews-strategy-cuts-film-budgets-after-blockbuster-spend-whats-next-for-apple-tv">scale back movie budgets.</a>
That decision comes after Apple recently debuted "Wolfs" in a limited theatrical release ahead of its Sept. 27 streaming premiere on AppleTV+.
While most films starring George Clooney and Brad Pitt, would command a premium budget and likely see a strong box office run, the "Wolfs" stars have denied getting a reported $35 million each and said they were paid less for the film
After originally planning on releasing the movie widely in movie theaters, Apple made the decision to switch to a limited run ahead of the streaming premiere.
The decision may have paid off with Apple saying "Wolfs" is now the most viewed movie in AppleTV+ history, without providing a specific figure.
"Wolfs" helped boost viewership on AppleTV+ by 30% week-over-week after the movie's premiere according to a report from <a href="https://deadline.com/2024/10/george-clooney-brad-pitt-wolfs-most-viewed-movie-in-apple-tv-history-1236105000/">Deadline</a>.
The film, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival, has already been green lit for a sequel by Apple, with the film's writer and director Jon Watts returning.
"When George, Brad and Jon approached us with the idea for ‘Wolfs,' it was an easy call – a crackling, fun movie starring two Oscar winners who everyone knows are iconic together," Apple Original Films' head of features Matt Dentler said.
Dentler said AppleTV+ could be the "home for the world's most talented artists to create and deliver their best work" and the audience viewership has been existing.
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</ul>
Why It Matters: Apple TV+ was launched on Nov. 1, 2019. It marked Apple&#8217;s entry into the competitive streaming market, which is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38337256/netflix-once-again-evolved-and-eclipsed-its-streaming-war-rivals">dominated by </a>Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>).
While the decision not to run the movie in theaters may have been tough for Apple and left money on the table, it likely means a boost to streaming viewership figures and potentially an uptick in subscriber.
Apple has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/03/37558754/apples-1b-gamble-on-3-blockbusters-analyzing-box-office-results-streaming-impact-and-oscar-nominatio">seen recent success </a>at the Academy Awards with "CODA," which won a historic Oscar for Best Picture at the 94th Academy Awards. 
Other Apple-produced movies also saw theatrical releases. They include:
<ul>
<li>&#8220;<a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt5537002/?ref_=bo_se_r_1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Killers of the Flowers Moon</a>&#8220;: $67.9 million domestic, $89 million international, $156.9 million global</li>
<li>&#8220;<a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt13287846/?ref_=bo_se_r_1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Napoleon</a>&#8220;: $61.5 million domestic, $159.5 million international, $221 million global</li>
<li>&#8220;<a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt15009428/?ref_=bo_se_r_1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Argylle</a>&#8220;: $44.2 million domestic, $48.2 million international, $92.5 million global</li>
</ul>
In total, the three movies cost around $700 million for Apple and grossed $470.4 million worldwide, according to BoxOfficeMojo.
While the box office figures didn't break even on costs, a studio source told Variety that both "Killers of the Flower Moon" and "Napoleon" were profitable thanks to other revenue streams.
Netflix, in contrast, rarely uses the theater distribution model for its films. But Apple has adopted a strategy of premiering its major films in theaters before offering them exclusively on its streaming platform, Apple TV+.
This model helps Apple recover some of its costs and could also help the company be a staple for award shows that require a theatrical run.
Apple finds itself in a difficult place with the need to spend more on content to boost subscribers, but also having less to spend on movies and content due to a smaller subscriber base. With the parent company a cash cow, Apple may be able to maintain losses for its streaming business if it chooses to, but could also push for a larger focus on profits.
Reports say Apple is considering<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/07/40014040/apple-to-follow-netflix-disney-ad-supported-appletv-streaming-plan-could-launch-soon"> launching an ad-supported </a>streaming plan soon, which could help alleviate some of the revenue concerns and bring in more money to be spent on content.
The company&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/06/32764885/lionel-messi-joins-mls-in-surprise-move-heres-how-apple-could-have-played-into-decision-to-join-davi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously acquired the rights</a>&nbsp;to Major League Soccer and select Major League Baseball games. The MLS bet paid off with superstar&nbsp;Lionel Messi&nbsp;joining the league and Apple&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/08/33737512/lionel-messis-inter-miami-stint-leads-to-explosive-surge-in-mls-streaming-subscribers-double" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seeing a boost</a>&nbsp;in subscribers to the platform.
Apple will release "Blitz" in select theaters on Nov. 1 with a streaming premiere on AppleTV+ on Nov. 22. The company also has "F1," which stars Pitt, opening in theaters on June 25, 2025.
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Image: Shutterstock

Entertainment

AAPL

NFLX

Apple TV+ Scores Biggest Streaming Movie In History Thanks To George Clooney, Brad Pitt

Nike (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nke#NYSE">NKE</a>) shares fell after the Q1 report, which opened an opportunity for investors. The fall is due to numerous factors, including weaker-than-expected results, revoked guidance, and a CEO transition that is ultimately expected to turn the company around. The takeaway is that Nike faces headwinds and has a long road to recovery, but market support remains firm, and recovery is expected. The question is if now is the right time to buy or if the stock will make a deeper correction before the rebound begins.
The analysts are trimming targets but have yet to make any downgrades. The 19 MarketBeat tracks have the stock pegged at a Moderate Buy and trading near a floor in the low $70s. With this dynamic in play, the market will likely bottom soon and begin to rebuild the base. The critical drivers for the action going forward will be a recovery in wholesales and product innovation, the primary reasons for the company&#39;s weakness today. Nike&#39;s leaning into direct-to-consumer sales eroded wholesaler support, exacerbating market share losses related to innovation.&nbsp;
Nike did not make any significant product innovations for years until 2024, losing market share to start-ups like On Holdings (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/onon#NYSE">ONON</a>) and legacy shoemakers like Adidas (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/adddf#OTC">ADDDF</a>) and Deckers Outdoors (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/deck#NYSE">DECK</a>). On Holdings is growing at an industry-leading double-digit pace while Nike flounders in contraction. Even so, the new Nike pipeline depends on updates to existing Air technology, athlete partnerships to drive product changes, and streamlined production, which may not yield results quickly. The best estimates are for the changes to take effect in early 2026, more than eighteen months away.&nbsp;
<h2>Nike Had a Tough Quarter, But Not a Bad One</h2>
Nike had a tough time in Q1, but the business remains profitable, producing positive cash flow sufficient to sustain balance sheet quality and capital returns. The company reported $11.6 billion in net revenue, down 10.4% compared to last year, falling short of the consensus estimates but beating the bottom line. Revenue was impacted by weakness in Nike and Converse brands, DTC, and wholesales, with a contraction in the core footwear and apparel categories. Equipment is the single area of strength, up 34%, aiding bottom-line results.&nbsp;
The margin news is also mixed, with gross margin and selling, general, and administrative expenses (SG&amp;A) improving but offset by increased sales and tax expenses. The takeaway is that net income is down 28% year over year, and the diluted GAAP EPS is 26% but well above forecasts, reflecting operational improvements and quality. The net result is $0.70 in GAAP EPS, which is more than 3500 basis points above consensus, with margin quality expected to continue in the coming quarters.&nbsp;
The details that spooked the market are the retracted full-year guidance and delayed investor day conference, which brings an element of uncertainty to the outlook with the CEO change due soon. As it is, the company expects Q2 revenue to be down 8% to 10%, putting the H1 outlook in alignment with the prior forecast.&nbsp;
<h2>No Red Flags on Nike&#39;s Strong Balance Sheet: Capital Returns Can Run</h2>
As troubled as Nike is, the company produced a positive cash flow quarter and improved its balance sheet while sustaining dividends and share repurchases. The share repurchases topped $1 billion for the quarter, helping to reduce the average count by 2.7%, and will likely continue as the fiscal year progresses.&nbsp;
The dividend is also safe at roughly 50% of the quarterly earnings. However, the pace of annual increase will likely slow from double-digits into the low single-digits until growth is reinvigorated. Regarding the balance sheet, cash and assets are up compared to last year, and debt and equity are relatively flat, leaving the company in a net-cash position relative to its debt, with leverage low at 0.6x equity. Nike has work to do but is in a solid financial position, capable of making the necessary moves to achieve its goal.&nbsp;
<img alt="Nike NKE stock chart" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.marketbeat.com/logos/articles/med_20241002091343_chart-nke-1022024.png" style="height:423px; width:917px" />
The article &quot;<a href="https://www.marketbeat.com/originals/nikes-post-earnings-drop-presents-a-buying-opportunity/">Nike&#39;s Post-Earnings Drop Presents a Buying Opportunity</a>&quot; first appeared on MarketBeat.

Dividends

ADDDF

DECK

ONON

Nike's Post-Earnings Drop Presents a Buying Opportunity

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Celsius Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CELH#NASDAQ">CELH</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with CELH, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 13 uncommon options trades for Celsius Holdings.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 46% bullish and 38%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 7 are puts, for a total amount of $376,568, and 6 are calls, for a total amount of $212,218.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $17.5 to $130.0 for Celsius Holdings during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for Celsius Holdings options trades today is 868.0 with a total volume of 2,525.00.
In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for Celsius Holdings's big money trades within a strike price range of $17.5 to $130.0 over the last 30 days.
<h3>Celsius Holdings Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727983154_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$100.0</td>
<td>$98.35</td>
<td>$100.0</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$90.0K</td>
<td>218</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$8.3</td>
<td>$8.2</td>
<td>$8.3</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$73.0K</td>
<td>761</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">207</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$6.75</td>
<td>$6.65</td>
<td>$6.75</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$59.4K</td>
<td>2.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">219</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$5.5</td>
<td>$5.4</td>
<td>$5.42</td>
<td>$35.50</td>
<td>$54.0K</td>
<td>37</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$5.45</td>
<td>$5.2</td>
<td>$5.31</td>
<td>$35.50</td>
<td>$53.1K</td>
<td>37</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">100</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Celsius Holdings</h3>
Celsius Holdings plays in the energy drink subsegment of the global nonalcoholic beverage market, with 96% of revenue concentrated in North America. Celsius' products contain natural ingredients and a metabolism-enhancing formulation, appealing to fitness and active lifestyle enthusiasts. The firm's portfolio includes its namesake Celsius Originals beverages (including those that are naturally caffeinated with stevia), Celsius Essentials line (containing aminos), and Celsius On-the-Go powder packets. Celsius dedicates its efforts to branding and innovation, while it utilizes third parties for the manufacturing, packaging, and distribution of its products. In 2022, Celsius forged a 20-year distribution agreement with PepsiCo, which holds an 8.5% stake in the business.
In light of the recent options history for Celsius Holdings, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Celsius Holdings</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 4,035,346, the price of CELH is down -0.66% at $30.25. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 33 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Celsius Holdings</h3>
Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $42.4.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Piper Sandler persists with their Overweight rating on Celsius Holdings, maintaining a target price of $47. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Roth MKM persists with their Buy rating on Celsius Holdings, maintaining a target price of $45. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Roth MKM continues to hold a Buy rating for Celsius Holdings, targeting a price of $43. 
&#x2A; An analyst from B of A Securities has decided to maintain their Underperform rating on Celsius Holdings, which currently sits at a price target of $26. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Stifel keeps a Buy rating on Celsius Holdings with a target price of $51. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Celsius Holdings options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

CELH

Looking At Celsius Holdings's Recent Unusual Options Activity

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Hims &amp; Hers Health. Our analysis of options history for Hims &amp; Hers Health (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>) revealed 39 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 58% of traders were bullish, while 28% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 11 were puts, with a value of $756,530, and 28 were calls, valued at $3,089,081.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $10.0 to $30.0 for Hims &amp; Hers Health over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for Hims &amp; Hers Health options trades today is 2581.74 with a total volume of 69,554.00.
In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for Hims &amp; Hers Health's big money trades within a strike price range of $10.0 to $30.0 over the last 30 days.
<h3>Hims &amp; Hers Health Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727983149_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$2.25</td>
<td>$2.1</td>
<td>$2.2</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$1.0M</td>
<td>6.1K</td>
<td>5.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$152.3K</td>
<td>2.8K</td>
<td>947</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$1.05</td>
<td>$1.0</td>
<td>$1.0</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$150.0K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$6.5</td>
<td>$6.4</td>
<td>$6.5</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$139.7K</td>
<td>2.8K</td>
<td>262</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$5.0</td>
<td>$4.9</td>
<td>$5.0</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$125.0K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td>640</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Hims &amp; Hers Health</h3>
Hims &amp; Hers Health Inc is a multi-specialty telehealth platform that connects consumers to licensed healthcare professionals, enabling them to access high-quality medical care for numerous conditions related to mental health, sexual health, dermatology, primary care, and more.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Hims &amp; Hers Health, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Hims &amp; Hers Health's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 22,353,251, the price of HIMS is down by -10.18%, reaching $17.02.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 32 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Hims &amp; Hers Health</h3>
A total of 1 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $20.0.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from B of A Securities has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Hims &amp; Hers Health, which currently sits at a price target of $20. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Hims &amp; Hers Health, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

Check Out What Whales Are Doing With HIMS

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on ZIM Integrated Shipping (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZIM#NYSE">ZIM</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with ZIM, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 9 uncommon options trades for ZIM Integrated Shipping.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 44% bullish and 33%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 3 are puts, for a total amount of $95,507, and 6 are calls, for a total amount of $311,252.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $5.0 to $25.0 for ZIM Integrated Shipping during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in ZIM Integrated Shipping's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to ZIM Integrated Shipping's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $5.0 to $25.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>ZIM Integrated Shipping 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727983144_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ZIM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$17.0</td>
<td>$16.95</td>
<td>$17.0</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$93.5K</td>
<td>78</td>
<td>55</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ZIM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$0.79</td>
<td>$0.66</td>
<td>$0.66</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$66.0K</td>
<td>15.5K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ZIM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$1.95</td>
<td>$1.76</td>
<td>$1.95</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
<td>$58.5K</td>
<td>792</td>
<td>316</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ZIM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/11/24</td>
<td>$0.97</td>
<td>$0.0</td>
<td>$0.91</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$39.0K</td>
<td>97</td>
<td>432</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ZIM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$1.92</td>
<td>$1.46</td>
<td>$1.69</td>
<td>$22.50</td>
<td>$33.8K</td>
<td>5.6K</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About ZIM Integrated Shipping</h3>
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd is an asset-light container liner shipping company. It offers tailored services, including land transportation and logistical services, specialized shipping solutions, including the transportation of out-of-gauge cargo, refrigerated cargo, and dangerous and hazardous cargo. Its services include Cargo Services, Digital Services, Schedules, and Shipping Trades and Lines. Geographically, it derives a majority of its revenue from the Pacific trade region.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding ZIM Integrated Shipping, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of ZIM Integrated Shipping</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 4,796,348, the price of ZIM is up by 1.24%, reaching $23.7.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 41 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on ZIM Integrated Shipping</h3>
Over the past month, 2 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $17.75.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Jefferies lowers its rating to Hold with a new price target of $25. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from JP Morgan downgraded its rating to Underweight, setting a price target of $10. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for ZIM Integrated Shipping, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Decoding ZIM Integrated Shipping's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Oil is trading more than 5% higher Thursday on the heels of President Joe Biden&#8216;s statement that the U.S. spoke with Israel about a possible attack on Iran's oil facilities.
"We're in discussions about that,&#8221; Biden said during an interaction with reporters. 
Biden seemingly indicated he wasn&#8217;t partial to the idea of striking at Iran&#8217;s oil facilities, before cutting himself off: &#8220;I think that would be a little&#8230; anyway.&#8221; See video below.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Biden: Discussing Israeli strikes on Iran oil facilities &#x7C; AJ #shorts" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/InF5MnsXAt0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
When one reporter asked whether Biden would &#8220;allow&#8221; Israel to retaliate against Iran, Biden swiftly corrected him: &#8220;First of all, we don&#8217;t &#8216;allow&#8217; Israel. We advise Israel.&#8221;
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/10/35136071/israel-under-siege-unprecedented-hamas-attack-sparks-intense-clashes-netanyahu-says-we-are-at-war">Since Oct. 7, 2023</a>, Israel has been fighting Hamas in Gaza as well as Hezbollah in Lebanon. Both groups are considered terrorist organizations by the U.S. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41134015/jd-vance-tim-walz-debate-sets-a-different-tone-candidates-discuss-israel-iran-escalation-immigration">JD Vance, Tim Walz Debate Sets A Different Tone, Candidates Discuss Israel-Iran Escalation</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Oil And The Israel-Iran Conflict</h3>
Iran is the seventh-largest oil producer in the world. The country, which backs the Hezbollah militant group, exports around half its production abroad. 
China, where <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/08/40596334/asia-markets-mixed-europe-gains-crude-oil-falls-on-chinese-demand-concerns-global-markets-today-whil">oil demand is weak</a>, is its main customer.
Since Iran's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/10/41126038/iran-attacks-israel-with-missiles-middle-east-tensions-escalates-s-p-500-stocks-bitcoin-fall-as-oil">missile attack on Israel</a> on Monday, the price of barrels has fluctuated. As of Oct. 3, the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil is $73.83 per barrel. This reflects a 5.32% increase from the previous day&#8217;s close of $70.10.
The price of Brent crude is approximately $77.76 per barrel. It has fluctuated within a range of $74.33 to $77.58 for the day.
The U.S., which is producing more oil under Biden than any other U.S. presidential administration, has been filling its reserves. The Biden administration acquired an additional <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/eurozone/24/10/41146905/geopolitical-risks-may-be-biggest-threat-to-markets-boe-says">6 million barrels of crude</a> just this week.
It&#8217;s worth noting that ongoing violence in the Middle East puts the Straits of Hormuz at risk. A third of tanker traffic and a fifth of LNG frozen gas is transported through that passageway. 
The U.S. and its allies are likely determined to keep the Strait open due to its strategic importance. Any attempt to block the Strait could provoke military intervention.
Iran controls much of the northern coastline of the Strait and has previously threatened to block the passage in response to sanctions or conflicts with Western countries. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Market Reaction</h3>
So far, market reaction to the Middle East conflict is relatively mute compared to February 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine.
At the time, the oil market reacted with significant volatility and disruption, leading to a sharp rise in global prices. 
Brent crude, the global benchmark, surged above $100 per barrel for the first time since 2014, and by March 2022, it had briefly spiked to $139 per barrel, near the all-time high.
Oil-related exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, were trending up at last check Thursday afternoon. Here&#8217;s where they stand: 
<ul>
<li>United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>) is up 4.05% to $75.71</li>
<li>Invesco DB Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DBO#NYSE">DBO</a>) is up 4.08% at $15.06</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Oil &amp; Gas Exploration &amp; Production ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOP#NYSE">XOP</a>) is up 3.1% at $139.56</li>
<li>Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>) up 1.65% at $92.22</li>
<li>ProShares Ultra Bloomberg Crude Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UCO#NYSE">UCO</a>) is up 6.59% at $28.81</li>
<li>VanEck Vectors Oil Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OIH#NYSE">OIH</a>) is up 1.89% at $297.58</li>
</ul>
Now Read: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/previews/24/10/41170128/jobs-report-preview-could-september-labor-data-shift-feds-interest-rate-path">Jobs Report Preview: Could September Labor Data Shift Fed&#8217;s Interest Rate Path?</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Regulations

Sector ETFs

Commodities

Politics

Global

ETFs

Oil Prices Rally: Biden Confirms US 'Discussions' With Israel About Striking Iran Facilities

Deutsche Bank analyst Scott Deuschle changed price targets and presented earnings previews for major Aerospace companies such as GE Aerospace (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) and Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HWM#NYSE">HWM</a>).
The analyst writes that these stocks are well-insulated against end-market challenges and are likely to achieve the largest earnings beats and drive significant upward revisions.
GE Aerospace: The analyst raised the price target to $235 from $212 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ge/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">while maintaining a Buy rating</a>.
Deuschle expects a 9% EPS beat in their base case and a 15% beat in the blue sky scenario for the third quarter.
In both cases, the analyst anticipates an increase in 2024 guidance, with a potential 7% EBIT rise if the blue sky scenario occurs.
Strong CSA collections from the summer flying season could drive free cash flow (FCF) above expectations, leading to an increase in FCF guidance, adds the analyst.
Overall, Deuschle says that they are optimistic ahead of the earnings release due to the potential for a significant beat and raise this quarter.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40986267/ge-aerospace-takes-flight-with-ai-wingmate-boosts-innovation-employee-productivity-with-microsof" rel="noreferrer noopener">GE Aerospace Takes Flight With AI Wingmate: Boosts Innovation, Employee Productivity With Microsoft&#8217;s Azure AI</a>
Howmet: The analyst raised the price target to $125 from $106 while <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/hwm/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">maintaining a Buy rating</a>.
The analyst writes that the base case estimates third-quarter EPS at $0.68, above the Street&#8217;s $0.66, with a roughly 2% midpoint guidance increase.
The analyst cited upside drivers such as pricing strategies, strong execution allowing shipments above long-term agreement caps, and earlier-than-expected generation 2 LEAP HPT blade shipments.
Deuschle expects HWM to guide 2025 revenue in line with the Street (+10%), which could trigger further positive revisions, given a higher 2024 base and likely surprises in Engine Products EBITDA margins.
Read Next: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/41171469" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uber &amp; Avride Join Forces for Autonomous Delivery; Partners With ENSO For Low-Emission EV Tires</a>
For Boeing Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>), the analyst lowered the price target to $195 from $225 while <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BA/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">maintaining a Buy rating</a>.
The analyst anticipates a third-quarter free cash flow burn of ($4.0 billion), up from a previous estimate of ($2.4 billion), due to the strike&#8217;s impact on September deliveries and ongoing cash pressures in Boeing&#8217;s Defense segment.
The forecast includes a $1 billion EBIT loss at Boeing Defense Systems (BDS) and a $1.6 billion loss at Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA), adds the analyst.
Deuschle says that BCA loss forecast assumes a $1 billion forward loss on the 777X, reflecting delays in entry into service and increased costs related to union negotiations and wage hikes.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41170226/boeing-workers-union-says-decision-to-cut-health-care-for-33-000-is-unnecessary-and-cruel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boeing Workers&#8217; Union Says Decision To Cut Health Care For 33,000 Is &#8216;Unnecessary And Cruel&#8217;</a>
Image via Shutterstock

GE and Howmet Poised for Strong Earnings as Aerospace Sector Stays Resilient: Analyst

The Western Union Company (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wu#NYSE">WU</a>) inked a deal with the Open Finance company, Khipu, enabling customers to transfer money digitally using any bank account in Chile.
The agreement incorporates Khipu&#39;s technology into Western Union&#39;s mobile app and website. Earlier, customers paying through a bank account had to leave the Western Union app or website and log into their bank&#39;s platform to complete the payment. This step is now removed as a result of the latest integration, allowing the entire transaction to be completed within the Western Union platform. The service is now available via the Western Union Chile app and website.
Western Union has also introduced a special promotion offer with a $0 fee for the first remittance made using the &quot;Online Bank Transfer&quot; option, thereby encouraging customers to explore the new service. The collaboration between WU and Khipu makes sure that cross-border payments can be made faster and more seamlessly by Chile&#39;s customers.
<h2>Benefits of the Recent Move to Western Union</h2>
The recent initiative reflects Western Union&#39;s sincere efforts to establish a solid footprint across the Chilean remittance market.&nbsp;
Moves similar to the latest one are indicative of Western Union&#39;s efforts to align with its global digital expansion strategy, designed to attract more customers through its diverse service offerings. Speedier money transfers brought about by integrating Khipu&#39;s technology into the WU platform are likely to result in the increased usage of its money transfer services. This move is likely to further boost the company&#39;s digital money transfer revenues in the days ahead.
Strategic partnerships with financial service providers and significant investments have enabled Western Union to develop a robust digital platform. This platform&#39;s strength has made it a preferred partner for efficient global money transfers and advancing digitization in underserved regions.
<h2>Western Union&#39;s Stock Price Performance</h2>
Shares of Western Union have dipped 0.7% year to date against the industry&#39;s 8.8% growth.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/af/80259.jpg?v=1602165044" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>WU&#39;s Zacks Rank &amp; Other Stocks to Consider</h2>
WU currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).&nbsp;
Some other top-ranked stocks in the Business Services space are Duolingo, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/duol#NASDAQ">DUOL</a>), RCM Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/rcmt#NASDAQ">RCMT</a>) and AppLovin Corporation (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/app#NASDAQ">APP</a>), each currently sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
The bottom line of Duolingo outpaced estimates in each of the last four quarters, the average surprise being 92.09%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DUOL&#39;s 2024 earnings is pegged at $1.87 per share, which indicates a more than five-fold increase from the year-ago figure. The consensus mark for revenues implies growth of 38.6% from the year-ago number. The consensus mark for DUOL&#39;s 2024 earnings has moved 7.5% north in the past 60 days.&nbsp;
RCM Technologies&#39; earnings outpaced estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and matched the mark once, the average surprise being 17.49%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RCMT&#39;s 2024 earnings indicates an improvement of 10.4% from the year-ago figure. The same for revenues also implies growth of 5.3% from the prior-year reading. The consensus mark for RCMT&#39;s 2024 earnings has moved 2.2% north in the past 60 days.&nbsp;
The bottom line of AppLovin outpaced estimates in each of the last four quarters, the average surprise being 21.06%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for APP&#39;s 2024 earnings is pegged at $3.46 per share, which indicates a nearly four-fold increase from the year-ago figure. The consensus mark for revenues implies growth of 35.2% from the year-ago actual. The consensus mark for APP&#39;s 2024 earnings has moved 13.1% north in the past 60 days.
Shares of Duolingo and AppLovin have gained 24% and 238.2%, respectively, year to date. However, RCM Technologies stock has lost 31% in the same time frame.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2345644/western-union-expands-footprint-in-chile-with-khipu-partnership?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|company_news_finance_sector-2345644">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Latin America

Offerings

DUOL

RCMT

Western Union Expands Footprint in Chile With Khipu Partnership

OSTX

OS Therapies shares are trading higher after the company announced the completion of its Phase 2b clinical trial for OST+HER2 in recurred osteosarcoma and is preparing to request an FDA Type C meeting to adjust protocol. It's data analysis and topline results are expected in Q4 2024.

American Environmental Partners, Inc. GAAP EPS of $0.00, revenue of $6.7M

American Environmental Partners division signs agreement for State University of New York

American Environmental Partners signs agreement for reverse merger with Scworx

AEPT

Press Releases

American Energy Partners Announces Name Change to American Environmental Partners Effective October 30, 2023

American Energy Partners, Inc. Announces the Signing of a Letter of Intent for a Reverse Merger With a Nasdaq Listed Company, SCWorx Corp.

SCWorx Signs Letter of Intent to Acquire an Environmental Services Company

American Environmental Partners Announces Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Austin Master Services and D.S.A. Services Sign Agreement to Analyze, Transport and Dispose of Waste at SUNY Geneseo Campus

American Environmental Partners Signs Definitive Agreement for Reverse Merger with Nasdaq Listed SCWorx Corp.

Society of Petroleum Engineers Names Kurtis Hoffman the Regional Management Award Recipient for the Eastern North America Region

WORX

American Environmental

&nbsp;&nbsp; American Environmental to List on Nasdaq Upon Closing 
 
Under Ticker Symbol: AEPT

CANONSBURG, PA, Dec. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/Tracker?data=JavRnfaBtH3abdCVVbE_DdoRqUcg9vBRv72BYb0u0c8kC8x8fLXYGTHYmHIq0F6oYQ27yWfARrJLAhcQYyRnGfORxp_UWM7FHhKQiwl_PnE=" target="_blank">NewMediaWire</a>&nbsp;&ndash;American Environmental Partners, Inc. (&quot;American Environmental,&quot; &quot;AEPT&quot; or &quot;the Company&quot;) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEPT#OTC">AEPT</a>), a mission critical environmental services company focused on remediation and processing solutions for infrastructure and industrial companies, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement and plan of merger on Dec. 21, 2023 with SCWorx Corp. (&quot;Worx&quot;). Upon completion of the transaction and approval of the business combination listing application by Nasdaq, the combined company will be named American Environmental Partners, Inc., and the shares will trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol &quot;AEPT.&quot;

&quot;This is a transformational event for American Environmental Partners and Worx,&quot; said Brad Domitrovitsch, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Environmental Partners. &quot;The signing of the definitive agreement takes us one step closer to listing on Nasdaq.&quot;

&quot;I would like to thank Worx and its team for their hard work to make this a reality and my colleagues for your efforts and support in creating a new American Environmental Partners. We have an exciting opportunity ahead of us and I&#39;m confident we have the right team to execute on our strategy,&quot; added Mr. Domitrovitsch.

Transaction Details

The transaction, which was approved by the Boards of Directors of both American Environmental Partners and Worx, is expected to close in the&nbsp;first quarter&nbsp;of calendar year 2024, subject to shareholder approval, regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions.

Under the Agreement, Worx has agreed to merge its wholly-owned subsidiary into American Environmental Partners, with American Environmental Partners as the surviving company. As merger consideration for their shares, American Environmental Partners shareholders will receive shares of Worx common stock equal to&nbsp;83%&nbsp;of the combined Company, on a fully diluted basis, after giving effect to a pre-merger capital raise of up to&nbsp;$6 million&nbsp;by American Environmental Partners, which is a condition to completion of the Agreement. Therefore, Worx shareholders will own&nbsp;17%&nbsp;of the combined company on a fully-diluted basis after the merger.

Upon completion of the Agreement, pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the board of directors of the new Company will consist of five directors, with four designated by American Environmental Partners and one designated by Worx.

The Transaction will be considered a &quot;reverse merger&quot; because the shareholders of American Environmental Partners will own more than a majority of the outstanding common stock of the Company following completion of the Proposed Transaction. As such, the Agreement is subject to NASDAQ approving a listing application based on initial inclusion standards. In addition, the closing of the Agreement is subject to satisfaction of the following conditions: (i) satisfactory completion of due diligence review by both parties, (ii) American Environmental Partners raising up to&nbsp;$6 Million&nbsp;of equity, and (iii) approval by both Worx and American Environmental shareholders, as well as other customary closing conditions.

For further information regarding the terms and conditions contained in the definitive transaction agreement, please see Worx&#39;s current report on Form 8-K, which was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the transaction.

American Environmental Partners Signs Definitive Agreement For Reverse Merger With Nasdaq Listed SCWorx Corp.

American Energy Raises Q2 Guidance

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