Latest News for Agentix Stock (OTC:AGTX)

Agentix Corp is a biotechnology company. It is engaged in the development and commercialization of novel therapeutics to treat metabolic diseases, peripheral neuropathy, progressive lung disease, and ischemic reperfusion injury. Its principal business objective is to develop both science-driven synthetic and natural cannabinoid therapeutics that address unmet medical needs and continue to drive innovations in the endocannabinoid space.

Agentix Corp

<p><strong>Exxon Mobil Corporation&nbsp;</strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/xom#NYSE">XOM</a>) reported first-quarter 2024 earnings per share of $2.06 (excluding identified items), which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.19. The bottom line also declined from the year-ago level of $2.83.</p>
<p>Total quarterly revenues of $83,083 million missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $86,599 million. The top line also deteriorated from the year-ago quarter&#39;s figure of $86,564 million.</p>
<p>Weak quarterly results primarily resulted from lower realizations of natural gas prices and decreased total production.</p>
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>Exxon Mobil Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/chart/XOM/price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart?icid=chart-XOM-price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart"><img alt="Exxon Mobil Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/1c/1714130241.png" style="height:265px; width:590px" title="" /> </a></p>
<p>Exxon Mobil Corporation price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Exxon Mobil Corporation Quote</p>
</div>
<h3>Operational Performance</h3>
<h3>Upstream</h3>
<p>The segment reported quarterly earnings (excluding identified items) of $5,660 million, down from $6,615 million reported in the year-ago quarter. This was mainly due to a 32% decrease in natural gas prices and other non-cash impacts from tax and inventory adjustments, as well as divestments.</p>
<p>Operations in the United States recorded a profit of $1,054 million, down from $1,632 million registered in the March-end quarter of 2023. The company reported a profit of $4,606 million from non-U.S. operations, down from $4,983 million reported in the year-ago quarter.</p>
<p><strong>Production:&nbsp;</strong>ExxonMobil&#39;s production averaged 3,784 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day (MBoe/d), lower than 3,831 MBoe/d reported a year ago. The figure also missed our estimate of 3,807.6 MBoe/d.</p>
<p>However, Liquids production increased to 2,557 thousand barrels per day (MBbls/d) from 2,495 MBbls/d in the prior-year quarter. The outperformance resulted from higher production, primarily in Canada and Africa. Yet, natural gas production totaled 7,362 million cubic feet per day (Mmcf/d), down from 8,016 Mmcf/d reported a year ago. This was primarily due to lower output from the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia.</p>
<p><strong>Price Realization:&nbsp;</strong>In the United States, ExxonMobil recorded crude price realization of $74.96 per barrel, higher than the year-ago quarter&#39;s figure of $73.95. The figure, however, missed our estimate of $75.27. Crude price realization for non-U.S. operations increased to $72.00 per barrel from $67.93 in the year-ago quarter. Our estimate for the same was pinned at $72.08 per barrel.</p>
<p>Natural gas price in the United States was $2.22 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf), lower than the year-ago quarter&#39;s level of $3.20. Our estimate for the same was pegged at $2.06 per Mcf. Also, in the non-U.S. section, the metric declined to $11.37 per Mcf from $17.39. The figure also missed our estimate of $13.44 per Mcf.</p>
<h3>Energy Products</h3>
<p>The segment recorded a profit (excluding identified items) of $1,376 million, down from $4,213 million recorded a year ago. The reported figure also lagged our estimate of $2,931.3 million. This was primarily due to lower industry refining margins and unfavorable timing effects from derivatives mark-to-market impacts.</p>
<h3>Chemical Products</h3>
<p>This unit of ExxonMobil recorded a profit of $785 million (excluding identified items), up from $371 million registered in the year-ago quarter. The reported figure also beat our estimate of $505.2 million. Margins improved as a result of reduced U.S. feed costs and strong performance product sales, aiding the business unit.</p>
<h3>Specialty Products</h3>
<p>This ExxonMobil unit recorded a profit of $761 million (excluding identified items), down from $774 million in the year-ago quarter. Our projection for the same was pegged at $714 million. Higher margins from improved finished lubes and structural cost savings aided the business unit, partially offset by weaker base stock margins and higher base expenses.</p>
<h3>Financials</h3>
<p>In the quarter under review, ExxonMobil generated a cash flow of $15,367 million from operations and asset divestments. The company&#39;s capital and exploration spending amounted to $5,839 million.</p>
<p>At the end of the first quarter of 2024, ExxonMobil&#39;s total cash and cash equivalents were $33,320 million, and long-term debt totaled $32,213 million.</p>
<h3>Zacks Rank &amp; Stocks to Consider</h3>
<p>ExxonMobil currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).</p>
<p>Investors interested in the&nbsp;energy&nbsp;sector may look at some better-ranked stocks like <strong>SM Energy Company&nbsp;</strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sm#NYSE">SM</a>), <strong>EOG Resources Inc.,</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/eog#NYSE">EOG</a>) and <strong>PBF Energy Inc.</strong>&nbsp;(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pbf#NYSE">PBF</a>). While SM Energy sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), EOG Resources and PBF Energy carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) each at present.</p>
<p>SM Energy Company&nbsp;is an independent oil and gas company, engaged in the exploration, exploitation, development, acquisition, and production of oil and gas in North America. SM currently has a Value Score of B.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SM&#39;s 2024 and 2025 EPS is pegged at $6.33 and $6.96, respectively. The stock has witnessed upward earnings estimate revisions for 2024 and 2025 in the past seven days.</p>
<p>EOG Resources, an oil and gas exploration company, boasts attractive growth prospects, top-tier returns, and a disciplined management team, leveraging highly productive acreages in prime oil shale plays like the Permian and Eagle Ford.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EOG&#39;s 2024 EPS is pegged at $12.29. The company has a Zacks Style Score of B for Value and A for Momentum. It has witnessed upward earnings estimate revisions for 2024 and 2025 in the past seven days.</p>
<p>PBF Energy&nbsp;operates with a diverse asset base of six refineries, boasting higher daily crude processing capacity and a complex refining system, enabling the production of superior-grade refined products.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PBF&#39;s 2024 and 2025 EPS is pegged at $7.39 and $5.87, respectively. PBF currently has a Zacks Style Score of A for Value and A for Momentum. Over the past seven days, PBF has witnessed upward earnings estimate revisions for 2024 and 2025.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2263049/exxonmobil-xom-q1-earnings-miss-estimates-revenues-fall-y-y?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2263049">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Earnings Misses

News

Markets

Trading Ideas

ExxonMobil Q1 Earnings Miss Estimates, Revenues Fall Y/Y

<p><strong>FirstEnergy</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fe#NYSE">FE</a>) reported first-quarter 2024 operating earnings of 55 cents per share, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 53 cents by 3.8%. However, the bottom line decreased 8.3% from the year-ago quarter&#39;s figure of 60 cents.</p>
<h3>Total Revenues</h3>
<p>Operating revenues of $3.29 billion missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.36 billion by 2.04%. The top line, however, increased 1.8% from $3.23 billion recorded in the year-ago quarter.</p>
<h3>&nbsp;</h3>
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>FirstEnergy Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise <a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/chart/FE/price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart?icid=chart-FE-price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart"> <img alt="FirstEnergy Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/94/1714122526.png" style="height:282px; width:615px" title="" /> </a></h3>
<p>FirstEnergy Corporation price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | FirstEnergy Corporation Quote</p>
</div>
<h3>Segmental Performance</h3>
<p><strong>Distribution: </strong>Earnings from this segment totaled $1.77 billion, down 2.8% from the prior-year quarter&#39;s level. The decline can be attributed to higher planned operating expenses during 2024.<br />
<strong>Integrated:</strong> Earnings from this segment amounted to $1.09 billion, up 6.5% from the prior-year quarter&#39;s reported actuals. The improvement was primarily due to the approval of recent base rate cases in Maryland, New Jersey and West Virginia, investments in formula rate capital programs, and higher weather-related demand.<br />
<strong>Stand-Alone Transmission:</strong> Earnings from this segment totaled $438 million, up 9.5% from the prior-year quarter&#39;s figure. The first-quarter results were driven by the rate base growth in formula rates from its capital investment program.<br />
<strong>Corporate/Other: </strong>The loss from this segment amounted to $13 million compared with a loss of $14 million in the year-ago quarter.</p>
<h3>Highlights of the Release</h3>
<p>Total operating expenses were $2.65 billion, up 1.1% from the year-ago quarter&#39;s level of $2.62 billion.<br />
The company reported an interest expense of $305 million, up 16% from the prior-year quarter&#39;s level of $263 million.<br />
Total distribution deliveries for the first quarter increased 1.5% from that recorded in the year-ago period. Usage increased 1% among residential customers. While industrial sales increased 3% year over year, sales were essentially flat in the commercial sector.</p>
<h3>Financial Highlights</h3>
<p>As of Apr 22, 2024, FE reported available liquidity of $4.73 billion, including cash and cash equivalents of $110 million.<br />
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations as of Mar 31, 2024, totaled $21.65 billion compared with $22.89 billion as of Dec 31, 2023.<br />
Net cash used for operating activities for the first three months of 2024 totaled $40 million compared with $112 million in the year-ago period.</p>
<h3>Guidance</h3>
<p>FirstEnergy expects 2024 earnings per share in the range of $2.61-$2.81, which indicates a 7% increase over the 2023 guidance midpoint, driven by robust regulated growth. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the same is pegged at $2.67, lower than $2.71, the midpoint of the company&#39;s guided range.<br />
FirstEnergy reaffirmed its long-term annual operating EPS growth rate of 6-8%. FE continues with its capital investment plan of $26 billion for the 2024-2028 period.</p>
<h3>Zacks Rank</h3>
<p>FirstEnergy currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).</p>
<h3>Upcoming Releases</h3>
<p><strong>WEC Energy Group</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wec#NYSE">WEC</a>) is scheduled to report first-quarter results on May 1, before market open. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter earnings is pegged at $1.92 per share.<br />
WEC&#39;s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 5.9%. It delivered an average earnings surprise of 4.9% in the last four quarters.<br />
<strong>Pinnacle West Capital </strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pnw#NYSE">PNW</a>) is scheduled to report first-quarter results on May 2, before market open. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter earnings is pegged at 3 cents per share.<br />
PNW&#39;s long-term earnings growth rate is 7.6%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings is pegged at $4.76 per share.<br />
<strong>NRG Energy</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nrg#NYSE">NRG</a>) is scheduled to report first-quarter results on May 7, before market open. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter earnings is pegged at 51 cents per share.<br />
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings is pinned at $5.36 per share. NRG delivered an average earnings surprise of 6.4% in the last four quarters.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2263047/firstenergy-fe-q1-earnings-beat-estimates-revenues-lag?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2263047">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Earnings

Earnings Beats

FirstEnergy Q1 Earnings Beat Estimates, Revenues Lag

<p><strong>PNM Resources</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pnm#NYSE">PNM</a>) is scheduled to release first-quarter 2024 results on Apr 30, before market open. The company delivered an earnings surprise of 20% in the last reported quarter.<br />
Let&#39;s discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.</p>
<h3>Factors to Consider</h3>
<p>PNM Resources&#39; first-quarter earnings are likely to have gained from increased load growth and higher transmission margins. The new rates, effective since January 2024, are also expected to have boosted first-quarter earnings.<br />
However, still high interest rates and increased depreciation and property tax might have offset some positives in the to-be-reported quarter.</p>
<h3>Q1 Expectations</h3>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter earnings is pegged at 68 cents per share, indicating a year-over-year increase of 23.6%.<br />
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pinned at $588.84 million, implying an 8.2% improvement year over year.</p>
<h3>What Our Quantitative Model Predicts</h3>
<p>Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for PNM Resources this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat. That is not the case here, as you will see below.</p>
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>PNM Resources, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/chart/PNM/price-eps-surprise?icid=chart-PNM-price-eps-surprise"><img alt="PNM Resources, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/e1/1714129216.png" style="height:300px; width:614px" title="" /> </a></p>
<p>PNM Resources, Inc. price-eps-surprise | PNM Resources, Inc. Quote</p>
</div>
<p><strong>Earnings ESP:</strong> The company&#39;s Earnings ESP is 0.00%.<br />
<strong>Zacks Rank: </strong>Currently, PNM Resources carries a Zacks Rank #3.</p>
<h3>Stocks to Consider</h3>
<p>Investors may consider the following players from the same industry as these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle.<br />
<strong>CenterPoint Energy </strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cnp#NYSE">CNP</a>) is likely to come up with an earnings beat when it reports first-quarter earnings on Apr 30. It has an Earnings ESP of +3.92% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present.<br />
CNP&#39;s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter 2024 earnings has decreased 3.8% in the past 30 days.<br />
<strong>Ameren Corporation </strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aee#NYSE">AEE</a>) is likely to come up with an earnings beat when it reports first-quarter earnings on May 2. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.30% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present.<br />
AEE&#39;s long-term earnings growth rate is 6.5%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter 2024 earnings has decreased 0.9% in the past 60 days.<br />
<strong>Eversource Energy</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/es#NYSE">ES</a>) is likely to come up with an earnings beat when it reports first-quarter 2024 earnings on May 2. It has an Earnings ESP of +2.76% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present.<br />
ES&#39; long-term earnings growth rate is 4.2%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter 2024 earnings has remained unchanged in the past 60 days.<br />
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2263048/what-s-in-the-cards-for-pnm-resources-pnm-this-earnings-season?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_preview-2263048">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


What's in the Cards for PNM Resources This Earnings Season?

ZONE

CleanCore Solutions Shares Resume Trade

<p><strong>MicroStrategy </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) executive chairman <strong>Michael Saylor</strong> in an interview discussed the unique advantages that MicroStrategy has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38461105/bitcoin-could-soar-up-to-1m-says-strike-ceo-jack-mallers-violent-to-the-upside">over its competitors</a>.</p>
<p><strong>What Happened:</strong> According to Saylor, MicroStrategy can, unlike ETFs, leverage its stock, offer options and issue convertible debt.</p>
<p>Thanks to its operational flexibility and financial instruments, MicroStrategy thus enjoys a unique advantage over <strong>Bitcoin</strong> (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) ETFs.</p>
<p>&#8220;ETFs got approved and people thought, oh, ETFs are approved. That may not be good for you because you&#8217;re trading in a premium. But in fact, the opposite was true because we have a lot of Bitcoin and we&#8217;re an operating company,&#8221; Saylor <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUfVLzNdOyc&amp;embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2F&amp;source_ve_path=Mjg2NjY&amp;feature=emb_logo">explained</a> in an interview. </p>
<p>MicroStrategy&#8217;s approach involves using its corporate structure to enhance investor returns on Bitcoin investments. </p>
<p>The company's strategy includes issuing convertible debt which appeals particularly to convertible arbitrage investors looking for volatility, liquidity, and transparency. </p>
<p>This allows investors to hedge out exposure while benefiting from potential upside in Bitcoin&#8217;s value. MicroStrategy has been aggressive in its Bitcoin acquisitions, reinforcing its commitment to not only hold but also increase its Bitcoin holdings.</p>
<p>Saylor noted, &#8220;We&#8217;re levered Bitcoin. With a passionate shareholder base—120 to 140, 150 something, but more than 100 in volatility. If you know the Black-Scholes equation, if you plug volatility in, it makes the option more valuable.</p>
<p><em>Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38439393/a16z-crypto-cto-slams-memecoins-but-are-they-the-real-threat">a16z Crypto CTO Slams Memecoins, But Are They The Real Threat?</a></em></p>
<p>Moreover, the ability to issue debt and equity offers MicroStrategy a way to raise capital without the immediate sell-off risks associated with ETFs, which are typically arbitrated back to net asset value. </p>
<p>&#8220;They really can&#8217;t trade at a premium. They can&#8217;t issue convertible debt,&#8221; Saylor added, contrasting MicroStrategy&#8217;s capabilities with the limitations faced by Bitcoin ETFs.</p>
<p>MicroStrategy has also capitalized on its operational capabilities to attract a diverse range of investors—from public company investors seeking Bitcoin exposure to Bitcoin maximalists looking to invest their 401(k) savings in a crypto-linked asset. </p>
<p>The flexibility offered by the company's financial maneuvers allows it to cater to investors who desire to leverage Bitcoin's potential through various financial products.</p>
<p>Saylor's strategies highlight a proactive approach to using corporate finance tools to bolster investment in Bitcoin, providing a blueprint for how companies can effectively operate within the crypto space. </p>
<p><strong>What&#8217;s Next: </strong>This innovative approach will be a topic of interest at the upcoming Benzinga&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/digital-assets/agenda/">Future of Digital Assets</a> event on Nov. 19, where financial experts will discuss the evolving landscape of digital asset investments and the innovative financial strategies companies like MicroStrategy are employing to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38437196/this-famous-buy-bitcoin-sign-netted-an-intern-1m">maximize their returns in the cryptocurrency sector</a>.</p>
<p><em>Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38441774/consensys-sues-sec-over-ethereum-classification-calls-for-regulatory-clarity">Consensys Sues SEC Over Ethereum Classification, Calls For Regulatory Clarity</a></em></p>
<p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>


Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

$BTC

MSTR

Michael Saylor Summarizes Why MicroStrategy Is Superior To Bitcoin ETFs

WIIM

Carlisle shares are trading higher after the company reported better-than-expected Q1 financial results.

Guidance

L3Harris Technologies Says In Connection With LHX NeXt Program Restructuring Activities, Recorded Charges Of $64M During Quarter Ended March 29, 2024; Had Remaining Liabilities Of $55M During Quarter Ended March 29, 2024 , Which We Expect Will Be Paid In Next Year

<p>Roth MKM  analyst Jeff Martin   maintains OSI Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OSIS#NASDAQ">OSIS</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $169 to $172.</p>


Price Target

Analyst Ratings

OSIS

Roth MKM Maintains Buy on OSI Systems, Raises Price Target to $172

<p><a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/26/israel-hamas-egypt-hostage-deal-rafah-invasion-gaza">https://www.axios.com/2024/04/26/israel-hamas-egypt-hostage-deal-rafah-invasion-gaza</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Israeli officials told their Egyptian counterparts on Friday that Israel is ready to give <a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/09/blinken-hamas-gaza-hostage-ceasefire-deal">hostage negotiations</a> "one last chance" to reach a deal with Hamas, but if there isn't progress soon it will move forward with a ground <a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/24/israel-gaza-rafah-operation-egypt">invasion of Rafah</a>, two senior Israeli officials said.</p>
<p><strong>Why it matters: </strong>The Egyptians are increasingly <a href="https://www.axios.com/2023/12/07/palestinian-refugees-egypt-israel-america-relations">concerned</a> about a possible Israeli military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah and are making a last minute push for a hostage deal that would lead to a ceasefire in Gaza and stop an invasion of Rafah.&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Egyptian officials have raised concerns that an Israeli operation in the city would lead to tens of thousands of Palestinians entering their territory, potentially involving a breach of the border that would endanger Egypt's security.</li>
<li>Israel has for weeks said it would invade Rafah, where more than one million displaced Palestinian are estimated to be sheltering amid an ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Driving the news: </strong>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief of staff Gen. Herzi Halevi and the director of the Shin Bet security agency Ronen Bar visited Cairo earlier this week for talks on the Rafah operation and the hostage deal, Axios reported.</p>
<ul>
<li>During the talks in Cairo, the Egyptians presented new ideas for how to reach a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, according to Israeli officials and Egyptian <a href="https://www.alarabiya.net/arab-and-world/2024/04/25/%D9%84%D9%88%D9%82%D9%81-%D8%BA%D8%B2%D9%88-%D8%B1%D9%81%D8%AD-%D9%87%D9%84-%D8%AA%D8%AF%D9%81%D8%B9-%D9%85%D8%B5%D8%B1-%D9%85%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%88%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D8%B3%D8%B1%D9%89-%D8%A8%D9%8A%D9%86-%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%A6%D9%8A%D9%84-%D9%88%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%B3">press reports</a>.</li>
<li>A delegation of Egyptian intelligence officials visited Israel on Friday and conducted talks with representatives of the Shin Bet, IDF and Mossad about the hostage deal and the Rafah operation, Israeli officials said.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Behind the scenes:</strong> The Israeli officials said the talks with the Egyptians on Friday were<strong> </strong>constructive and that the Egyptians made it clear they intend to put pressure on Hamas to secure a deal for the release of hostages.</p>
<ul>
<li>The Egyptians also expressed that they understand the sense of urgency regarding the Rafah operation, the two Israeli officials said.</li>
<li>"Israel told Egypt that it is serious about preparations for the operation in Rafah and that it will not let Hamas drag its feet," one Israeli official said.</li>
<li>The Israeli message was that there is a clear deadline for invading Rafah and Israel will not agree to "another round of pointless talks for the purpose of fraud," the Israeli official said.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>The other side: </strong>Hamas chief negotiator Khalil al-Haia <a href="https://www.aljazeera.net/news/2024/4/25/%d8%ad%d9%85%d8%a7%d8%b3-%d9%85%d8%aa%d9%85%d8%b3%d9%83%d9%88%d9%86-%d8%a8%d9%88%d8%b3%d8%a7%d8%b7%d8%a9-%d9%82%d8%b7%d8%b1-%d9%88%d9%85%d8%b5%d8%b1-%d9%88%d9%84%d9%86-%d9%86%d9%82%d8%a8%d9%84">told al-Jazeera</a> on Thursday that the group still wants to reach a deal through Egyptian and Qatari mediation but said Israel is creating obstacles in the talks.</p>
<p><strong>State of play:</strong> The hostage talks between Israel and Hamas have been at a deadlock for a few weeks with significant gaps between the parties.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>In recent days, the Israeli war cabinet decided to change its position regarding the number of hostages Israel demands that Hamas releases as part of a deal.</li>
<li>The proposal that was on the table involved the release of 40 hostages in return for six weeks of ceasefire and the release of roughly 900 Palestinian prisoners.</li>
<li>The 40 hostages included women, female soldiers, men over the age of 50 and male hostages in poor medical condition who would be released on humanitarian grounds.</li>
<li>But Hamas claimed in recent weeks there are only about 20 hostages that fit this humanitarian criteria.</li>
<li>Israeli officials said the Israeli war cabinet authorized the Israeli negotiations team for the first time this week to discuss the release of less than 40 hostages.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>What to watch:</strong> Israeli officials say there are 33 hostages in the humanitarian category and all need to be released.</p>
<ul>
<li>"This is part of what the negotiations are going to focus now. The number of days of the ceasefire will be linked to the number of hostages who will be released. If Hamas does want a humanitarian deal, Israel will not be the obstacle," the Israeli official said.
<ul>
<li>The official said Israel was willing to be<strong> </strong>flexible on parameters of the hostage deal and gave the Egyptian mediators the green light to move forward.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>


Macro Economic Events

Global

Economics

iShares MSCI Israel Capped Investable Market Index Fund

ISRA

"Israel Warns Egypt: "Last Chance" For Hostage Deal Before Rafah Invasion" - Axios

JPYUSD

JPY/USD is trading lower after the Bank of Japan left rates unchanged.

<p>Roth MKM  analyst Rohit Kulkarni   maintains Alphabet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $164 to $202.</p>


GOOG

GOOGL

Roth MKM Maintains Buy on Alphabet, Raises Price Target to $202

SMCI

Super Micro Computer shares are trading higher as AI and chip stocks gain following Microsoft earnings.

Phillips 66 CEO Says Co On Track To Realize $1B Of Cost Reductions In 2024

HWH International shares are trading higher after the company announced that it entered into a joint venture to build its travel business in Asia.

<p>Engineering and scientific consulting firm&nbsp;<strong>Exponent Inc</strong>&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EXPO#NASDAQ">EXPO</a>) shares are skyrocketing after the company reported&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/04/g38443464/exponent-reports-first-quarter-2024-financial-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">better-than-expected first-quarter FY24 earnings</a>.</p>
<p>Exponent reported first-quarter FY24 sales growth of 3.3% year-on-year to $144.93 million, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $125.98 million.</p>
<p>Exponent&#8217;s engineering and other scientific&nbsp;segment&nbsp;represented 84% of the company&#8217;s revenues before reimbursements in the first quarter of 2024.</p>
<p>Operating income for the quarter increased 5.5% to $30.7 million, with an operating margin of 21.2%.</p>
<p>EPS&nbsp;of $0.59&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.47.</a></p>
<p>Exponent held $168.7 million in cash and equivalents as of March 29, 2024. The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.28 per share of common stock to be paid on June 21 to all&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/04/g38443450/exponent-declares-regular-quarterly-dividend-for-q2-2024" rel="noreferrer noopener">common stockholders of record as of June 7.</a></p>
<p>&#8220;The increasing global attention on safety, health, and environmental concerns coupled with the complexity and pace of innovation continues to drive greater demand for our expertise,&#8221; said President and CEO Catherine Corrigan.</p>
<p><strong>Outlook</strong>: For FY24, Exponent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">increased its revenue and margin guidance</a>, with revenues before reimbursements to grow in the low-single digits (prior view: flat to down in the low-single digits) and EBITDA of 26.25% to 27.0% (prior view: 25.75%&nbsp;to&nbsp;26.5%) of revenues before reimbursements.</p>
<p>For the second quarter, the company sees revenues before reimbursements to be flat to up in the low-single digits and an EBITDA of 27.25% to 28.25% of revenues before reimbursements.</p>
<p><strong>Price Action</strong>: EXPO shares are trading higher by 21.6% at $96.93 at the last check Friday.</p>
<p><em>Photo via Shutterstock</em></p>


Equities

Dividends

Movers

General

EXPO

Why Is Research Company Exponent Stock Soaring Today?

<p>Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on <strong>XPO</strong>.</p>
<p>Looking at options history for XPO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPO#NYSE">XPO</a>) we detected 19 trades.</p>
<p>If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 73% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 26% with bearish.</p>
<p>From the overall spotted trades, 4 are puts, for a total amount of $140,780 and 15, calls, for a total amount of $1,464,955.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $70.0 to $130.0 for XPO during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
<p>Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for XPO's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across XPO's significant trades, within a strike price range of $70.0 to $130.0, over the past month.</p>
<h3>XPO Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1714148151_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>XPO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/21/24</td>
<td>$37.1</td>
<td>$36.9</td>
<td>$37.1</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$593.6K</td>
<td>407</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XPO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/21/24</td>
<td>$37.1</td>
<td>$36.1</td>
<td>$37.1</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$322.7K</td>
<td>407</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">263</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XPO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/21/24</td>
<td>$37.1</td>
<td>$35.8</td>
<td>$37.1</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$181.7K</td>
<td>407</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">163</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XPO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$4.5</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$61.5K</td>
<td>756</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XPO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$11.3</td>
<td>$11.1</td>
<td>$11.3</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$48.5K</td>
<td>4.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">211</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About XPO</h3>
<p>Following the spinoff of its contract logistics division (GXO) in 2021 and freight brokerage operations (RXO) in 2022, XPO is moving closer to becoming a pure-play asset-based less-than-truckload carrier. On a pro forma basis for the November RXO spinoff, We estimate LTL shipping now makes up 60% of total revenue, with XPO's European truckload and LTL operations making up 40%. That said, XPO's LTL segment EBITDA mix is much higher than 60%. We believe XPO intends to divest its European trucking division once it finds the right buyer.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding XPO, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>Where Is XPO Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 2,822,417, the XPO's price is down by -10.51%, now at $105.82. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 7 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for XPO</h3>
<p>In the last month, 4 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $141.0.</p>
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Oppenheimer persists with their Outperform rating on XPO, maintaining a target price of $140. </li>
<li>An analyst from Raymond James has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on XPO, which currently sits at a price target of $145. </li>
<li>An analyst from Benchmark has decided to maintain their Buy rating on XPO, which currently sits at a price target of $140. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from B of A Securities continues to hold a Buy rating for XPO, targeting a price of $139. </li>
</ul>
<p>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.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for XPO, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


Options

Behind the Scenes of XPO's Latest Options Trends

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on <strong>Intuit</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTU#NASDAQ">INTU</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether this is an institution or just a wealthy individual, we don't know. But when something this big happens with INTU, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 8 options trades for Intuit.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 37% bullish and 37%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the options we uncovered, 7 are puts, for a total amount of $451,035, and there was 1 call, for a total amount of $29,200.</p>
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
<p>Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $630.0 to $650.0 for Intuit over the last 3 months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Intuit stands at 50.75, with a total volume reaching 710.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Intuit, situated within the strike price corridor from $630.0 to $650.0, throughout the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>Intuit Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1714148145_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>INTU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$50.3</td>
<td>$49.2</td>
<td>$49.7</td>
<td>$650.00</td>
<td>$99.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">42</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">178</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>INTU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$50.9</td>
<td>$49.8</td>
<td>$50.1</td>
<td>$650.00</td>
<td>$80.1K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">42</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">74</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>INTU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$50.5</td>
<td>$49.3</td>
<td>$49.7</td>
<td>$650.00</td>
<td>$79.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">42</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">158</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>INTU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$50.5</td>
<td>$49.0</td>
<td>$49.7</td>
<td>$650.00</td>
<td>$69.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">42</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">122</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>INTU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$50.1</td>
<td>$49.9</td>
<td>$50.1</td>
<td>$650.00</td>
<td>$65.1K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">42</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">14</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Intuit</h3>
<p>Intuit is a provider of small-business accounting software (QuickBooks), personal tax solutions (TurboTax), and professional tax offerings (Lacerte). Founded in the mid-1980s, Intuit controls the majority of U.S. market share for small-business accounting and do-it-yourself tax-filing software.</p>
<p>Having examined the options trading patterns of Intuit, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of Intuit</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 303,418, the price of INTU is up by 0.97%, reaching $632.47.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 25 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<p>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 Intuit with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


INTU

This Is What Whales Are Betting On Intuit

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on <strong>Baidu</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BIDU#NASDAQ">BIDU</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with BIDU, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 13 uncommon options trades for Baidu.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 38% bullish and 46%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 6 are puts, for a total amount of $343,192, and 7 are calls, for a total amount of $345,995.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $90.0 to $125.0 for Baidu during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Baidu stands at 1833.33, with a total volume reaching 3,189.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Baidu, situated within the strike price corridor from $90.0 to $125.0, throughout the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>Baidu Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1714148140_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>BIDU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$14.05</td>
<td>$13.95</td>
<td>$14.05</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$140.5K</td>
<td>503</td>
<td>105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BIDU</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$8.5</td>
<td>$8.45</td>
<td>$8.5</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$122.4K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BIDU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/21/24</td>
<td>$1.61</td>
<td>$1.59</td>
<td>$1.61</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$80.5K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BIDU</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/03/24</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.45</td>
<td>$3.45</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$51.7K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
<td>182</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BIDU</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/10/24</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$41.4K</td>
<td>953</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Baidu</h3>
<p>Baidu is the largest internet search engine in China with 84% share of the search engine market in September 2021 per web analytics firm, Statcounter. The firm generated 72% of core revenue from online marketing services from its search engine in 2022. Outside its search engine, Baidu is a technology-driven company and its other major growth initiatives are artificial intelligence cloud, video streaming services, voice recognition technology, and autonomous driving.</p>
<p>Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Baidu, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.</p>
<h3>Current Position of Baidu</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 1,994,545, the BIDU's price is up by 1.37%, now at $101.27. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 20 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Baidu</h3>
<p>A total of 2 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $160.5.</p>
<ul>
<li>An analyst from HSBC has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Baidu, which currently sits at a price target of $145. </li>
<li>An analyst from Citigroup persists with their Buy rating on Baidu, maintaining a target price of $176. </li>
</ul>
<p>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 Baidu with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>
