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In previous presidential elections, the Democratic and Republican candidates typically didn&#8217;t address cannabis and cryptocurrency as issues <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/election-day">heading into Election Day</a>. 
This year, it&#8217;s different. Both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have recognized cannabis and cryptocurrency — two areas of coverage for Benzinga — as key topics of interest among the electorate.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, the future of the cannabis market will be front and center at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago</a>. 
For Trump, he seemingly took a hint <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/38880719/biden-announces-monumental-marijuana-rescheduling-doj-to-take-next-steps">from the Biden-Harris administration</a> and recognized that a majority of people, including most Republicans, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/38922599/69-of-voters-including-majority-of-republicans-support-marijuana-legalization-did-you-catch-that">favor marijuana legalization</a>. Last month, he even expressed a desire to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40774795/trump-says-hell-reschedule-cannabis-if-elected-backs-marijuana-banking-reform-and-floridas-amend">federally reschedule cannabis</a> if he&#8217;s re-elected — a take that&#8217;s at odds <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/38649648/ron-desantis-plan-to-scuttle-floridas-cannabis-legalization-initiative-with-his-vast-fundraising">with other GOP leaders</a>. 
And when it comes to crypto, Trump was notoriously <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/08/40429919/trumps-crypto-reversal-ex-president-reportedly-holds-more-than-1m-in-digital-assets">a skeptic at first</a>. Not anymore. Now the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/21/01/19152983/donald-trump-is-the-first-us-president-to-be-impeached-twice">twice-impeached former president</a> is looking to cash in on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/09/40668757/trump-vs-harris-majority-of-us-crypto-owners-support-this-candidate">crypto fandom he&#8217;s amassed</a> and launch, with his sons, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/40800775/donald-trumps-world-liberty-financial-plans-to-raise-540m-with-token-sale">a new business venture</a> called World Liberty Financial. 
Voters keen on knowing where Harris stands on each issue will likely hope to get some answers this week when she and Michigan Governor Tim Walz, her running mate, embark on a media blitz, starting Monday night with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41214476/will-kamala-harriss-media-blitz-including-60-minutes-and-call-her-daddy-improve-her-2024-el">a &#8220;60 Minutes&#8221; interview</a>.
The Democratic ticket will face a multitude of pointed questions on a variety of topics: the economy, inflation, women&#8217;s rights, saving democracy, 
Whether Harris mentions cannabis or crypto in her media appearances this week remains to be seen. Until then, here&#8217;s a recap of the candidate&#8217;s stance and questions her interviewers would be wise to ask. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40713542/2024-election-cannabis-swing-state-voters-back-legalization-new-poll-reveals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024 Election &amp; Cannabis: Swing State Voters Back Legalization, New Poll Reveals</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Harris On Cannabis</h3>
Last week, Harris — in an interview on &#8220;All the Smoke&#8221; — reiterated her stance on cannabis legalization to hosts and former NBA players Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson.
"I just feel strongly, people should not be going to jail for smoking weed. And we know historically what that has meant and who has gone to jail," Harris <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41106120/kamala-harris-we-need-to-legalize-cannabis-vp-says-for-first-time-as-presidential-candidate-in-a">told Barnes and Jackson</a>.
On average, Black people are 3.6 times more likely to be arrested on marijuana charges, according to ACLU data.
"Second, I just think we have come to a point where we have to understand that we need to legalize it and stop criminalizing this behavior," she added. "And actually, this is not a new position for me. I have felt for a long time we need to legalize. So that's where I am on that."
Harris&#8217; <a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-positions-flipflop-trump-marijuana-death-penalty-f35dbacc2137e6aebc214befd4503ff8">critics</a> often point to her time as California attorney general from 2011 to 2017. At the time, she did not support legalizing recreational use of marijuana. Since then, she&#8217;s changed her view.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/20/10/17835892/kamala-harris-pledges-to-decriminalize-marijuana-expunge-records-at-vp-debate">During her 2020 debate</a> with then-Vice President Mike Pence, Harris promised to decriminalize the drug and expunge marijuana-related criminal records. By 2022, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/22/10/29175510/breaking-biden-announces-pardons-for-all-federal-marijuana-possession-convictions">White House announced a pardon</a> of all prior federal offenses of simple marijuana possession.
Key Question To Ask: Why has the number of people still imprisoned remained unchanged? The Last Prisoner Project has been calling on the White House to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/10/41214802/joe-biden-quick-question-before-you-go-are-those-cannabis-pardons-from-2-years-ago-still-on">make good on its promise</a>. 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="970" height="250" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07112738/ccc-oct-24-banner__1_-14.gif" alt="" class="wp-image-583764" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Harris On Crypto</h3>
Polymarket, where gamblers bet on real-world events using cryptocurrency, currently has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/10/41214859/this-polymarket-trader-holds-6-4-million-in-donald-trump-election-bets-if-not-musk-definit">Trump in the lead</a>. This is perhaps a reflection of how the crypto community views Harris. 
Over the last four years, crypto investors and venture capitalists have grown frustrated with the way Biden-appointed SEC Chair Gary Gensler approached the industry.
Harris hears these complaints. She <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/40972902/kamala-harris-finally-mentions-crypto-and-that-too-on-wall-street-promises-to-encourage-in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently commented</a> on the future of digital assets at a Manhattan fundraiser, adding it to "innovative technologies" like artificial intelligence that are worth supporting.
She has also <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/09/20/anthony-scaramucci-kamala-harris-campaigns-digital-asset-policies-.html">asked</a> SkyBridge Capital managing partner Anthony Scaramucci and other crypto advocates to advise her campaign's policies on digital assets.
Trump once dismissed cryptocurrency as worthless. He <a href="https://x.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1149472282584072192" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warned</a> in 2019 that unregulated Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and other digital assets can &#8220;facilitate unlawful behavior, including drug trade and other illegal activity.&#8221; The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/08/33851310/donald-trump-election-fraud-probe-georgia-grand-jury-reportedly-issues-10-indictments">quadruple-indicted candidate</a> has since pivoted 180 degrees on his position.
Key Question To Ask: Who would Harris name as SEC chair if she&#8217;s elected president? The future of the sector depends on it, as businesses dealing with crypto remain in the dark on the industry&#8217;s legal nuances. Trump is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/10/41212008/trump-considers-robinhood-exec-dan-gallagher-for-sec-chair-if-re-elected">reportedly looking to make his pick</a>.
What's Next: The influence of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/is-bitcoin-a-good-investment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin as an institutional asset class</a> is expected to be explored at Benzinga's upcoming <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/digital-assets/agenda/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Future of Digital Assets</a> event. Check it out on Nov. 19.
And in addition to &#8220;60 Minutes,&#8221; Harris has several other media appearances during the week, including:
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, Oct. 8, 11 a.m. ET: "The View" on ABC</li>
<li>Tuesday, Oct. 8, 1 p.m. ET: "The Howard Stern Show" on SiriusXM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SIRI#NASDAQ">SIRI</a>)</li>
<li>Tuesday, Oct. 8, 11:35 p.m. ET: "Late Show with Stephen Colbert" on CBS</li>
<li>Thursday, Oct. 10, 10 p.m. ET: Town Hall with TelevisaUnivision, partially owned by Grupo Televisa (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TV#NYSE">TV</a>)</li>
</ul>
Now Read: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40678698/trump-said-kamala-harris-treated-mike-pence-horribly-gets-slammed-online-for-having-a-stunning-senil">Trump Said Harris Treated Mike Pence Horribly, Gets Slammed Online For Having A &#8216;Stunning Senile Moment&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock.

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Kamala Harris On Cannabis And Crypto: Key Questions That Could Be Answered On '60 Minutes'

SL Green Realty Corp. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/slg#NYSE">SLG</a>) has a portfolio of high-quality and well-amenitized office properties in New York City, which positions it well for growth.
This New York-based office real estate investment trust (REIT) primarily acquires, manages, develops and leases commercial (mainly office) and residential real estate properties. It has been witnessing healthy demand for its properties amid the growing need for premier office spaces.
Shares of this currently Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company have rallied 25.8% over the past six months, outperforming its industry&#39;s growth of 13.9%. Given the strength in its fundamentals, there seems additional room for growth of this stock.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/a5/80615.jpg?v=69424603" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Factors That Make SL Green a Solid Pick</h2>
Healthy Leasing: Despite the negative effects of the remote-working dynamics that have been hindering the U.S. office real estate sector, SL Green signed 38 office leases for its Manhattan office portfolio, encompassing 420,513 square feet during the second quarter of 2024.
Office space demand in the upcoming period is likely to be driven by de-densification efforts, allowing higher square footage per office worker. Moreover, with well-located properties offering top-notch amenities, SLG&#39;s leasing pipeline is expected to be healthy despite the present challenging environment.
Strong Tenant Base: This office REIT enjoys a diversified tenant base to hedge the risk associated with dependency on single-industry tenants. As a result, its largest tenants include renowned firms from different industries. Moreover, with tenants&#39; long-term leases with a strong credit profile, it is well-poised to generate stable rental revenues over the long term.
Opportunistic Investment Policy: To improve the overall quality of its portfolio, SL Green has been following an opportunistic investment policy. This entails divesting its mature and non-core assets, including residential properties, in a tax-efficient manner and using the proceeds to fund development projects and share buybacks. These match-funding initiatives will ease the strain on the company&#39;s balance sheet and demonstrate its prudent capital-management practices.
In the second quarter through July 17, 2024, SL Green has completed the sale of three properties for a total of $691.4 million. The company received net proceeds of $222.7 million from the transactions, which were utilized for corporate debt repayment. The company also unveiled the sellout of the exclusive Giorgio Armani Residences on Manhattan&#39;s Upper East Side. All 10 residential units in this luxury condominium project are now under contract for a gross consideration of $168.2 million. The sales are scheduled to be concluded in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Over the years, the large-scale sub-urban asset sale has helped its narrow focus on the Manhattan market, as well as retain premium and highest-growth assets in the portfolio.
FFO Growth: Analysts seem bullish regarding SLG&#39;s funds from operations (FFO) per share growth prospects. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company&#39;s 2024 FFO has been revised marginally upward over the past two months to $7.58.
SL Green has increased its 2024 FFO per share outlook and now expects it in the range of $7.45-$7.75 compared with $7.35-$7.65 guided earlier.
<h2>Other Stocks to Consider</h2>
Some other top-ranked stocks from the broader REIT sector are Cousins Properties (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cuz#NYSE">CUZ</a>) and Four Corners Property Trust (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fcpt#NYSE">FCPT</a>), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Cousins Properties&#39; 2024 FFO per share is pegged at $2.67, which suggests year-over-year growth of 1.9%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Four Corners&#39; full-year FFO per share stands at $1.73, which indicates an increase of 3.6% from the year-ago period.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO), a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2347048/here-s-why-sl-green-stock-is-an-apt-portfolio-pick-for-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|rank_focused-2347048">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

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Here's Why SL Green Stock is an Apt Portfolio Pick for Now

IonQ Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ionq#NYSE">IONQ</a>) is a leading developer in the field of quantum computing, focusing on the commercialization of computers based on trapped ion technology. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more mainstream, investors are always searching for the next cutting-edge technology. Quantum computing may be that cutting edge. However, it&#39;s still in the very early innings. Its applications and superiority over existing supercomputers have yet to be set in stone. There is more hype than reality at this stage in the game. With quantum computing, everything is still just a potential. On its website, IonQ states that quantum computing has &quot;the potential to change the world.&quot;
IonQ operated in the computer and technology sector, competing with quantum computing divisions of Alphabet Inc.&nbsp;and International Business Machines Co.
<h2>Quantum Computing: Hype or Reality? </h2>
In the simplest terms, quantum computing enables a third state called superposition, which is a simultaneous representation of one and zero, versus current supercomputers that still have just the two states of zero and one. Quantum computing can be used to solve particular problems with a massive number of variables and similar optimization needs, with a reduced number of computation processes, resulting in lower computation time.
<h2>Potential Applications for Quantum Computers</h2>
Drug discovery is an ideal application for quantum computers, as they simulate molecular behavior and their interactions with unprecedented accuracy. By modeling complex biological molecules and chemical reactions in every possible scenario with every possible effect and interaction, quantum computing could reduce the time to identify effective drug compounds from years to weeks or days.
Quantum computers could &quot;supercharge&quot; AI by leveraging superposition and entanglement, which would allow it to perform simultaneous calculations to speed up problem-solving and processing.
<h2>Maintaining a Quantum Computer&nbsp; </h2>
Trapped ion technology involves cooling atoms to near-zero kelvin and trapping them with electric fields. Zero kelvin is not zero degrees but negative 459 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, all molecules stop moving, and particles have no kinetic energy and stand perfectly still.
Quantum computers must be maintained near zero kelvin for efficient operations with minimal thermal noise. The slightest heat or vibration can cause errors, which means they are usually housed inside refrigerators with cryogenic cooling systems that maintain temperatures near zero kelvin. Absolute zero is the theoretical lowest temperature possible, which can not be achieved perfectly.
For this reason, providing access to quantum computers through the cloud is the ideal access, or quantum computing as a service (QaaS), as the quantum computer is stored in a stable, near absolute zero environment. IonQ offers QaaS subscriptions through cloud providers like Amazon.com Inc.&nbsp;AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft Co.&nbsp;Azure to researchers and developers.
<h2>Does IonQ Generate Any Revenues Yet? </h2>
Yes, IonQ does generate revenue. Although it reported a loss of 18 cents per share in its second quarter of 2024, revenues climbed 1086.4% YoY to $11.38 million, beating $8.66 million consensus estimates. IonQ generated revenues from QaaS subscriptions and research contracts. The company achieved $9 million in new bookings. Although its net loss was $37.6 million, it has $402 million in cash and cash equivalents.
The company expects Q3 2024 revenue between $9 million and $12 million, versus $10.26 million consensus estimates. For the full year 2024, IonQ forecasts revenue between $38 million and $42 million, versus $39.42 million consensus estimates.&nbsp;
IonQ CEO Peter Chapman commented, &quot;This was also a major quarter for IonQ&#39;s commercialization, including our win of a system design project with ARLIS (the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security) via a competitive bidding process and an extension of our system access contract with AWS.&quot;
<h2>More Contract Signings </h2>
On Sept. 9, 2024, IonQ announced a $9 million agreement with the University of Maryland to provide state-of-the-art quantum computing access to the National Quantum Lab in Maryland. On Sept. 27, 2024, IonQ announced the largest 2024 U.S. quantum contract award of $54.5 million with the United States Air Force Research Lab (AFRL). This brings year-to-date (YTD) bookings of $72.8 million and reiterates its guidance of $75 million to $95 million for the full year 2024.
<h2>IONQ Stock Triggers a Bull Flag Breakout </h2>
A bull flag triggers when the stock surges through its upper descending trendline resistance.
<img alt="IonQ stock chart" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.marketbeat.com/logos/articles/med_20240929180210_chartc-ionq.jpg" style="height:748px; width:915px" />
IONQ triggered the bull flag breakout on the Sept. 27, 2024, announcement of the $54.5 million US Air Force contract. The news caused shares to surge 20.5% on 45.26 million shares of volume, triggering the breakout. The daily anchored VWAP support is at $8.40.The daily relative strength index (RSI) rose to the 70-band. Fibonacci (Fib) pullback support levels are at $7.79, $7.20, $6.34, and $5.37. 
IONQ&#39;s average consensus price target is $13.80, and its highest analyst price target sits at $18.00. It has three analyst Buy ratings and two Hold ratings.
Actionable Options Strategies: IONQ surged on news and big volume. Bullish investors can buy on pullbacks using cash-secured puts to take advantage of the elevated premiums at the fib pullback support levels to buy the dip. Be careful with the wide spreads since liquidity is usually thin.
Bullish investors with a longer time frame who want to spend less capital can consider buying out-of-the-money (OTM) directional LEAPS call options on this highly speculative stock.
The article &quot;<a href="https://www.marketbeat.com/originals/is-ionq-leading-the-quantum-revolution-major-deals-fuel-growth/">Is IonQ Leading the Quantum Revolution? Major Deals Fuel Growth</a>&quot; first appeared on MarketBeat.

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Is IonQ Leading the Quantum Revolution? Major Deals Fuel Growth

Celsius Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CELH#NASDAQ">CELH</a>) shares traded lower on Monday, falling to new 52-week lows. Here&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41209505/hurricane-milton-is-floridas-second-storm-in-two-weeks-how-disney-theme-parks-insurance-companie">what you need to know.</a>
What To Know: Celsius shares reached new 52-week lows on Monday as the company continues to battle slowing growth trends. Celsius shares are now down about 47% since the start of the year.
The beverage company&#8217;s stock was off to a strong start at the beginning of the year before weaker consumer spending trends began to impact discretionary names. Celsius, in particular, has grappled with market share declines on the back of softer demand. 
According to a Barron&#8217;s <a href="https://www.barrons.com/articles/buy-celsius-stock-price-pick-0d701863#">report</a> citing management commentary out of a recent conference, Celsius was seeing sales growth of greater than 50% at the start of the year, but growth has fallen to around 10% in the current quarter.
Recent analyst coverage coincides with stock performance trends. Several analysts have downgraded or cut price targets in recent months, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CELH/analyst-ratings">Benzinga&#8217;s analyst data</a>. Piper Sandler and Roth MKM were the latest analysts to lower price targets, with Piper cutting to $47 and Roth MKM cutting to $43 near the end of September.
Just last month, the selloff in Celsius shares accelerated to the downside after the company said PepsiCo Inc.(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEP#NASDAQ">PEP</a>) was scaling back orders to optimize its inventory. Celsius said it expected its distribution partner to reduce orders by about $100 million.
What Else: Celsius shares have been seeing increased attention across various social platforms as the stock continues to trend lower. The stock was among the top trending names on Stocktwits for a majority of Monday&#8217;s trading session. Traders appear to be trying to catch a bounce with shares down nearly 10% over the past week. Celsius&#8217; 50-day moving average is around $36.98, well above its current price.
Celsius on Monday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/b41204723/celsius-expands-celsius-essentials-line-with-two-new-delicious-flavors">announced</a> the debut of two new flavors under its Celsius Essentials line: Watermelon Ice and Grape Slush. The new flavors are expected to become available early next year. Celsius noted that it will be exhibiting the new flavors at NACS 2024. MMA fighter Dustin Poirier will host a fan meet and greet at the company&#8217;s booth.
CELH Price Action: Celsius Holdings has a 52-week high of $99.61. The stock hit 52-week lows on Monday, closing the day down 4.73% at $28.82, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro.</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://benzinga.slack.com/archives/D072651PB4K/p1727794380964569"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="553" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07133238/CELH-1024x553.png" alt="" class="wp-image-584001" style="width:527px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07133238/CELH-1024x553.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07133238/CELH-300x162.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07133238/CELH-768x415.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07133238/CELH.png 1069w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
See Also:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41213012/dave-ramseys-bold-plan-to-fight-inflation-could-his-radical-approach-help-you-keep-more-cash-in-">Dave Ramsey&#8217;s Bold Plan to Fight Inflation: Could His Radical Approach Help You Keep More Cash in the Bank?</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock.

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Celsius Holdings Stock Hit 52-Week Lows On Monday: What's Going On?

Recent studies have spotlighted the anticancer capabilities of cannabinoids like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/01/36584043/real-weed-or-a-lab-high-delta-8-and-delta-9-thc-explained">delta-9 THC</a>, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/22/06/27738301/cbd-and-cbg-show-promising-results-in-treating-brain-tumor-glioblastoma">CBD and CBG</a> and their potential to inhibit tumor growth and improve palliative care. 
Despite mounting experimental evidence supporting these <a href="http://benzinga.com/cannabis">cannabis</a> compounds' effectiveness in various cancers, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Key Anticancer Activities Of Cannabinoids</h3>
A comprehensive <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12672-024-01356-8">review</a> published in late September in Discover Oncology explores how cannabinoids can modulate signaling pathways critical for cancer cell survival and growth. Researchers underline the pressing necessity to establish standardized therapeutic protocols, especially considering the mixed results cannabinoids have demonstrated across different cancer types.
&#8220;Cannabinoids, including Δ9-THC, CBD, and CBG, exhibit significant anticancer activities such as apoptosis induction, autophagy stimulation, cell cycle arrest, anti-proliferation, anti-angiogenesis, and metastasis inhibition,&#8221; the authors report.&nbsp;
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<li>Get Benzinga&#8217;s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter <a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe">here</a>. If you&#8217;re serious about the business, you can&#8217;t afford to miss out.</li>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Research And Regulatory Hurdles For Cannabinoid Treatments</h3>
Yet, despite these promising attributes, the clinical application of cannabinoids is hampered by challenges such as variability in composition, psychoactive effects, regulatory hurdles and the absence of standardized dosing practices. These factors underscore the critical gaps in research, particularly concerning the clinical efficacy and safety profiles of cannabinoids, preventing their full potential from being realized in medical practice.
The legal and regulatory landscape remains a barrier to integrating cannabinoids fully into cancer treatment regimens. The discrepancies between <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/22/12/29944802/breaking-biden-signs-marijuana-research-bill-historic-moment-for-federal-cannabis-reform">federal and state laws</a>, especially in the U.S., complicate the research and approval processes, limiting accessibility of these potentially lifesaving compounds.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/38695976/cannabinoids-with-chemotherapy-for-breast-cancer-psychedelics-biotech-inks-61m-license-deal-for-">Cannabinoids With Chemotherapy For Breast Cancer: Psychedelics Biotech Inks $61M License Deal For Patented Methods</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Call For More Cannabinoid Cancer Therapies Research</h3>
The authors stressed the need for a deeper understanding of how cannabinoids interact with cancer signaling pathways. &#8220;Despite the evident anti-cancer properties of cannabinoids from numerous experimental results, the exact mechanisms of action still require extensive research.&#8221; This gap in knowledge fuels the cautious approach researchers and healthcare professionals take when considering cannabinoids in mainstream cancer therapies.
While cannabinoids are celebrated for their potential in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/01/36512822/cannabis-significantly-improves-symptoms-for-most-cancer-survivors-confirms-new-study">reducing nausea and pain in cancer patients</a>, the scientific community remains cautious, calling for more robust data beyond small-scale or preclinical studies. Consequently, despite promising preliminary findings, cannabinoids have yet to be conclusively proven as effective anticancer agents in clinical settings.
By advancing our understanding of how cannabinoids modulate cancer signaling pathways, there is potential to harness these compounds more effectively in oncology. Such advancements could lead to novel treatment strategies, offering hope for improved patient outcomes and expanded therapeutic options in cancer care.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40286680/heavy-cannabis-use-linked-to-higher-head-and-neck-cancer-risk-new-study-finds">Heavy Cannabis Use Linked To Higher Head And Neck Cancer Risk, New Study Finds</a></li>
</ul>

Regulations

Health Care

Cannabinoids Show Promising Anti-Cancer Potential Yet Mechanisms Remain Unclear, New Study

As U.S. banks prepare to report their third-quarter earnings, investor attention is focused on the potential for a soft landing in the economy, Federal Reserve rate cuts, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/banks">their impact on bank valuations. </a>
Analysts at Bank of America remain cautiously optimistic about the outlook for bank stocks. They predict that a soft-landing scenario could trigger a rebound in customer activity, improve loan growth, and positively drive higher price-to-earnings (P/E) multiples for the sector. However, macro uncertainties, including Fed policy shifts and the upcoming U.S. elections, temper the enthusiasm.
Bank of America equity analyst Ebrahim H. Poonawala highlighted in a note Monday that rate cuts could be &#8220;structurally bullish&#8221; for bank earnings per share (EPS) outlooks and stock P/E multiples. A softer rate environment is expected to reinvigorate customer activity, particularly in investment banking, mortgage lending, and loan growth.
However, lower interest rates are expected to negatively impact &#8220;asset-sensitive banks&#8221; as loan yields will drop.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41212796/tesla-robotaxi-day-preview-move-over-autonomous-vehicles-analyst-says-this-positive">Tesla Robotaxi Day Preview: Move Over Autonomous Vehicles, Analyst Says This &#8216;Positive Catalyst&#8217; Could Be More Important</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Political Risks Loom Large Ahead of Elections</h3>
The upcoming U.S. election adds an additional layer of uncertainty for banks. 
&#8220;A&nbsp;Trump win is likely seen as positive for relief on the regulatory/M&amp;A fronts.&nbsp;Democratic sweep likely most negative outcome for the sector given potential for higher taxes, more of the same (or worse) on regulatory changes,&#8221; analysts wrote.
While current valuations appear cautiously optimistic about a soft landing, political outcomes could trigger volatile movements in the sector. A Trump win would likely lead to a &#8220;knee-jerk&#8221; positive reaction in bank stocks, while a Democratic win could weigh on sentiment.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Regional Banks Preferred Over Money Center Banks</h3>
For the third quarter of 2024, the investment bank favored regional banks, as tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>), over large money center banks, citing &#8220;better defensibility of net interest income (NII).&#8221;
Regionals have greater flexibility with deposits, better hedging strategies, and more potential for capital relief as mark-to-market losses on bond books decline. 
Key picks include U.S. Bancorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USB#NYSE">USB</a>), Western Alliance (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WAL#NYSE">WAL</a>), PNC Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PNC#NYSE">PNC</a>), Fifth Third (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FITB#NASDAQ">FITB</a>), M&amp;T Bank (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MTB#NYSE">MTB</a>), and Truist Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TFC#NYSE">TFC</a>).
First Bancorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FBP#NYSE">FBP</a>) is seen as the &#8220;best positioned to navigate current rate expectations,&#8221; while Texas Capital Bancshares Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCBI#NASDAQ">TCBI</a>) is the most impacted.
On Monday, Bank of America also downgraded Comerica Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMA#NYSE">CMA</a>) from &#8220;Neutral&#8221; to &#8220;Underperform,&#8221; reducing the price target from $55 to $52. Analyst Brandon Berman highlighted that the positive rate trade underpinning Comerica &#8220;has run its course,&#8221; and the stock now trades above the high end of its historical range, not reflecting the risk of downward earnings revisions.
Looking ahead, Friday, Oct. 11, will see key earnings reports from JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), Wells Fargo Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>), and Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BNY#NYSE">BNY</a>).
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41214476/will-kamala-harriss-media-blitz-including-60-minutes-and-call-her-daddy-improve-her-2024-el">Will Kamala Harris&#8217;s Media Blitz, Including &#8217;60 Minutes&#8217; And &#8216;Call Her Daddy,&#8217; Improve Her 2024 Election Prospects?</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Earnings

Equities

Large Cap

Sector ETFs

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Econ #s

Federal Reserve

ETFs

FITB

TCBI

US Banks Earnings Preview: Soft-Landing Hopes, Interest Rate Cuts, Key Catalysts For Stocks

Petrobras (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pbr#NYSE">PBR</a>), an&nbsp;oil and gas company of Brazil, is close to reaching an agreement with Brazil&#39;s regulators that will enable the company to start redeveloping the large Tupi oil field, a significant asset in the country&#39;s energy landscape. This redevelopment initiative is expected to not only boost Petrobras&#39; production capabilities but also reinvigorate Brazil&#39;s oil output, which has faced stagnation in recent years.
<h2>Resolving the Tax Dispute: A Critical Step</h2>
One of the most pressing issues for Petrobras is the long-standing tax dispute with Brazil&#39;s National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP). According to Sylvia dos Anjos, the head of exploration and production at Petrobras, the company anticipates that this dispute will be resolved by the end of 2024. Successfully settling this issue is crucial for Petrobras to extend its operating contract for Tupi, potentially for another 27 years, allowing for a more extensive and profitable development plan.
The heart of the conflict lies in the interpretation of tax regulations pertaining to oil fields. Petrobras argues that Tupi consists two distinct deposits &mdash;Tupi and Cernambi. Under the ANP&#39;s maintenance these are a single entity. This interpretation affects the tax rate applicable to Petrobras, with larger fields incurring higher taxes. The ongoing arbitration proceedings may soon give way to negotiations, as both parties appear ready to find common ground.
<h2>Strategic Redevelopment Plans for Tupi</h2>
With the potential resolution of the tax dispute, Petrobras is poised to embark on ambitious plans to drill new wells and conduct seismic research at the Tupi oil field. The company is also contemplating the addition of another floating production unit, a significant investment that can cost more than $4 billion and take several years to construct. This move would significantly enhance Petrobras&#39; ability to extract oil from Tupi, which is essential for addressing the natural decline in production rates.
Cesar Cunha de Souza, Petrobras&#39; executive manager for ultra-deep waters, indicated that the start date for this new production unit will be defined in the company&#39;s next strategic plan. The goal is to maximize output from Tupi through infill drilling campaigns, which are designed to improve extraction rates from a field that has been in production for over a decade.
<h2>Economic Significance of Tupi</h2>
The Tupi oil field is a cornerstone of Petrobras&#39; operations and Brazil&#39;s economy. In the early 2010s, Tupi propelled Brazil into the ranks of the world&#39;s top ten oil producers, generating substantial tax revenues that have been crucial for the national economy. It has been a driving force behind exploration in the pre-salt region, a hotbed for international oil investments.
In 2023, Tupi outperformed oil production from several countries, including Colombia, Venezuela, the United Kingdom and Argentina. This achievement underscores the field&#39;s significance not only for Petrobras but for Brazil&#39;s energy independence and economic stability.
<h2>Challenges and Comparisons in Global Oil Production</h2>
Despite the positive outlook for Tupi, Petrobras faces challenges similar to those experienced by other oil-producing nations. For instance, Mexico&#39;s oil output has dramatically declined since the peak of the Cantarell field in the 2000s, significantly impacting government revenues. Anjos emphasized the necessity of intensifying efforts to extract more from Tupi, stating, &quot;We&#39;re going to carry out a process to get much more out of Tupi. It&#39;s a giant field.&quot;
The ongoing global demand for oil makes it imperative for Petrobras to arrest the decline in production effectively. The company is committed to exploring new methodologies and technologies that can enhance extraction and efficiency, ensuring that Tupi remains a vital contributor to Brazil&#39;s energy portfolio.
<h2>Production Metrics and PBR&#39;s Projections</h2>
Recent data reveals that Tupi has maintained an impressive output, producing an average of 764,000 barrels of oil per day in the first eight months of 2024. This output not only surpasses that of Buzios, another field where Petrobras is expanding production but also highlights Tupi&#39;s continued importance in Brazil&#39;s energy strategy. In August, daily crude output returned to last year&#39;s level, reaching 830,000 barrels per day following the conclusion of planned maintenance on a key platform.
Such metrics indicate that with the right investments and strategies in place, Tupi could enhance its production capabilities even further, reinforcing Petrobras&#39; position as a leader in the oil industry.
<h2>Future of Petrobras and the Tupi Oil Field</h2>
As Petrobras navigates the complexities of its tax dispute with the ANP, the company&#39;s focus on the Tupi oil field exemplifies its broader strategy to secure and expand Brazil&#39;s energy resources. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly influence the future trajectory of the company and its ability to innovate and adapt to an ever-changing global oil landscape.
Overall, the redevelopment of Tupi is not just a crucial step for Petrobras. It is a significant chapter in Brazil&#39;s quest for energy security and economic growth. The company&#39;s commitment to resolving its tax issues and investing in new technology positions PBR to capitalize on one of the most important oil fields in the world, ensuring that Brazil remains a key player in the global energy market.
<h2>PBR&#39;s Zacks Rank &amp; Key Picks</h2>
Currently, PBR has a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
Investors interested in the energy sector might look at some better-ranked stocks like Targa Resources (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/trgp#NYSE">TRGP</a>) and Archrock (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aroc#NYSE">AROC</a>), each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), and Core Laboratories Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/clb#NYSE">CLB</a>), carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present.
Targa Resources is valued at $34.62 billion. In the past year, its shares have risen 90%. TRGP is a leading provider of midstream energy infrastructure services in the United States. It offers a wide range of services, including gathering, processing, transportation, storage and marketing of natural gas and natural gas liquids.
Houston-based Archrock is valued at $3.68 billion. The oil and gas exploration and production company currently pays a dividend of 66 cents per share, or 3.03%, on an annual basis. AROC, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy infrastructure company in the United States. The company operates in two segments, Contract Operations and Aftermarket Services.
Core Laboratories is valued at $929.82 million. The company currently pays a dividend of 4 cents per share, or 0.2%, on an annual basis. CLB is an oilfield services company, operating in more than 50 countries. The firm deals with providing reservoir management and production enhancement services to oil and gas companies.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2347049/petrobras-to-close-final-deal-for-redeveloping-the-tupi-oil-field?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|company_news_energy_sector-2347049">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Latin America

Dividends

AROC

TRGP

Petrobras to Close Final Deal for Redeveloping the Tupi Oil Field

JP Morgan analyst Samik Chatterjee downgrades Ciena (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CIEN#NYSE">CIEN</a>) from Overweight to Neutral and announces $65 price target.

Downgrades

CIEN

JP Morgan Downgrades Ciena to Neutral, Announces $65 Price Target

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on KLA.
Looking at options history for KLA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KLAC#NASDAQ">KLAC</a>) we detected 13 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 30% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 46% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 5 are puts, for a total amount of $202,401 and 8, calls, for a total amount of $866,930.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $620.0 and $900.0 for KLA, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for KLA'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 KLA's whale trades within a strike price range from $620.0 to $900.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>KLA Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728333938_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 style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>KLAC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$94.0</td>
<td>$91.0</td>
<td>$92.5</td>
<td>$740.00</td>
<td>$508.7K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">121</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">56</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KLAC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$46.5</td>
<td>$45.2</td>
<td>$46.0</td>
<td>$790.00</td>
<td>$115.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">19</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KLAC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$156.5</td>
<td>$150.2</td>
<td>$154.0</td>
<td>$660.00</td>
<td>$61.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">148</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KLAC</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$39.4</td>
<td>$38.1</td>
<td>$39.4</td>
<td>$740.00</td>
<td>$59.1K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">64</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KLAC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$157.7</td>
<td>$152.0</td>
<td>$154.0</td>
<td>$660.00</td>
<td>$46.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">148</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About KLA</h3>
KLA is one of the largest semiconductor wafer fabrication equipment, or WFE, manufacturers in the world. It specializes in the market segment of semiconductor process control, wherein machines inspect semiconductor wafers during research and development and manufacturing for defects and verify precise measurements. In this section of the market, KLA holds a majority share. It also has a small exposure to the etch and deposition segments of the WFE market. It counts as top customers the largest chipmakers in the world, including TSMC and Samsung.
In light of the recent options history for KLA, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Where Is KLA Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 747,651, with KLAC's price down by -0.73%, positioned at $781.67.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 16 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About KLA</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $842.0.
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 Citigroup persists with their Buy rating on KLA, maintaining a target price of $900. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Oppenheimer downgraded its action to Perform with a price target of $750. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald keeps a Neutral rating on KLA with a target price of $925. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wells Fargo keeps a Overweight rating on KLA with a target price of $870. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from UBS keeps a Neutral rating on KLA with a target price of $765. 
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 KLA, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

KLAC

KLA Unusual Options Activity For October 07

Investors with significant funds have taken a bearish position in B. Riley Financial (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RILY#NASDAQ">RILY</a>), a development that retail traders should be aware of.
This was brought to our attention today through our monitoring of publicly accessible options data at Benzinga. The exact nature of these investors remains a mystery, but such a major move in RILY usually indicates foreknowledge of upcoming events.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner identified 31 options transactions for B. Riley Financial. This is an unusual occurrence. The sentiment among these large-scale traders is mixed, with 32% being bullish and 61% bearish. Of all the options we discovered, 30 are puts, valued at $3,864,990, and there was a single call, worth $27,090.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $2.5 to $27.5 for B. Riley Financial during the past quarter. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</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 B. Riley Financial's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to B. Riley Financial's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $2.5 to $27.5 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>B. Riley Financial 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728333933_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</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>RILY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$13.4</td>
<td>$13.2</td>
<td>$13.2</td>
<td>$17.50</td>
<td>$359.0K</td>
<td>2.9K</td>
<td>289</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RILY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$1.0</td>
<td>$0.7</td>
<td>$0.9</td>
<td>$2.50</td>
<td>$314.6K</td>
<td>24.4K</td>
<td>5.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RILY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.2</td>
<td>$2.65</td>
<td>$3.1</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$309.3K</td>
<td>3.5K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RILY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$9.7</td>
<td>$8.4</td>
<td>$9.5</td>
<td>$12.50</td>
<td>$282.1K</td>
<td>762</td>
<td>299</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RILY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$5.1</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$274.7K</td>
<td>4.5K</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About B. Riley Financial</h3>
B. Riley Financial Inc is a diversified financial services company. The company through its subsidiaries offers investment banking and financial services to corporate, institutional, and high-net-worth clients and also asset disposition, valuation and appraisal, and capital advisory services to retail, wholesale, institutional, lenders, capital providers, private equity investors, and professional services firms in United States, Canada, and Europe. It also provides internet access and subscription services. The reportable operating segments of the company include Capital Markets, Wealth Management, Financial Consulting, Auction and Liquidation, Communications segment, and Consumer products segment.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding B. Riley Financial, 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 B. Riley Financial</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 4,148,833, the RILY's price is down by -11.37%, now at $4.32. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 11 days.</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>.
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 B. Riley Financial, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

RILY

Market Whales and Their Recent Bets on RILY Options

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on Qualcomm. Our analysis of options history for Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) revealed 27 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 37% of traders were bullish, while 55% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 13 were puts, with a value of $514,098, and 14 were calls, valued at $661,332.
<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 $150.0 to $200.0 for Qualcomm over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Qualcomm stands at 1585.5, with a total volume reaching 4,130.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Qualcomm, situated within the strike price corridor from $150.0 to $200.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Qualcomm 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728333928_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>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$9.9</td>
<td>$9.75</td>
<td>$9.75</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$121.8K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">253</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$8.9</td>
<td>$8.75</td>
<td>$8.75</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$92.7K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">144</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$9.25</td>
<td>$9.2</td>
<td>$9.25</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$64.7K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">344</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$24.15</td>
<td>$24.1</td>
<td>$24.1</td>
<td>$185.00</td>
<td>$60.2K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$5.9</td>
<td>$5.75</td>
<td>$5.79</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$57.9K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">363</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Qualcomm</h3>
Qualcomm develops and licenses wireless technology and designs chips for smartphones. The company's key patents revolve around CDMA and OFDMA technologies, which are standards in wireless communications that are the backbone of all 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Qualcomm's IP is licensed by virtually all wireless device makers. The firm is also the world's largest wireless chip vendor, supplying nearly every premier handset maker with leading-edge processors. Qualcomm also sells RF-front end modules into smartphones, as well as chips into automotive and Internet of Things markets.
In light of the recent options history for Qualcomm, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Where Is Qualcomm Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 4,346,871, the price of QCOM is down -1.12% at $167.0. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 23 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Qualcomm</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 $210.0.
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; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from JP Morgan continues to hold a Overweight rating for Qualcomm, targeting a price of $210. 
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 Qualcomm, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

QCOM

Qualcomm Unusual Options Activity

DigitalOcean Holdings Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/docn#NYSE">DOCN</a>) is a cloud infrastructure on-demand provider that enables enterprises and developers to construct, develop, deploy, and scale applications in an affordable and scalable manner. It&#39;s instrumental for companies undergoing digital transformation and migrating to the cloud or getting started with cloud computing.
DigitalOcean operates in the computer and technology sector, competing with hyperscalers, including Microsoft Co., Alphabet Inc.&nbsp;and Amazon.com, Inc.
<h2>What Is Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)?</h2>
IT infrastructure can be built from the ground up by buying servers, networking equipment, storage equipment, including hard drives and solid-state drives (SSDs) and software, including operating systems middleware, not to mention hiring a talent to manage and operate it. When adding artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities like models, training and inferencing, the costs rise exponentially, especially with NVIDIA Co.&nbsp;GPUs and servers that can cost over $100,000 each.
On the other hand, it can be rented with infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) at a fraction of the cost from providers like Digital Ocean. IaaS is way more cost effective, flexible and scalable in case you need to add more capacity and more servers.
<h2>DigitalOcean&#39;s Droplets Make It Simple </h2>
Droplets are DigitalOcean&#39;s virtual machines that you can rent as they act as lightweight, customizable servers through the cloud. Droplets are fundamental units of computing power you can manage and deploy on DigitalOcean. They are customizable, giving you full control over the operating system, networking settings, and software. They are scalable, so you can increase or decrease resources like CPU, storage, and memory as your needs change. Droplets can be used to run applications like website hosting, blogs, data storage, game servers, databases, developing and testing applications, and backend services. Droplets can be deployed in minutes in any size and any location in the world.
<h2>Digital Ocean&#39;s GPU Droplets Are Scalable Virtual Machines for AI/ML Workloads </h2>
GPU Droplets can be used for AI and machine learning (ML) workloads. These are scalable, simple, and affordable virtual machines serving high-performance computing (HPC) to run training and inference on AI models, process massive data sets, and sophisticated neural networks for deep learning use cases.
<h2>Digital Ocean Issues Upside Revenue Guidance</h2>
For the second quarter of 2024, DigitalOcean reported earnings-per-shares (EPS) of 48 cents, beating consensus analyst estimates by 9 cents. Revenues grew 13.1% YoY to $192 million, beating $188.63 million consensus estimates. Its annual run rate (ARR) rose 15% YoY to $781 million.
DigitalOcean issued Q3 2024 EPS of 39 cents to 41 cents versus 41 cents consensus estimates. Revenues for the third quarter are expected to be between $196 million and $197 million, beating $195.21 million consensus estimates.
For the full year of 2024, DigitalOcean sees EPS of $1.60 to $1.70 versus $1.64 consensus estimates. Revenues are expected between $770 million to $775 million, beating $769.92 million consensus estimates.
DigitalOcean CEO Paddy Srinivasan commented, &quot;With our new leadership team in place and accelerating product innovation, we continue to execute on our mission of providing cloud computing to growing technology companies as well as pursue our AI strategy of democratizing access to GPU Infrastructure and a compelling platform to simplify building and consuming AI.&quot;
<h2>DOCN Stock Attempts a Second Bull Flag Pattern </h2>
A bull flag occurs when the stock surges through the upper descending trendline resistance. A steep run-up forming the flagpole precedes the flag comprised of descending upper and lower trendlines.
<img alt="DigitalOcean DOCN stock chart" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.marketbeat.com/logos/articles/med_20240929175443_chartc-docn.jpg" style="height:753px; width:915px" />
DOCN triggered its first bull flag breakout on Sept. 9, 2024, surging from $36.78 to a swing high of $43.97, completing the flagpole. Parallel descending upper and lower trendlines formed comprised of lower highs and lower lows. A breakout through $41.58 would trigger the bull flag. The anchored VWAP support is at $36.86. The daily relative strength index (RSI) is slipping to the 58-band. Fibonacci (Fib) pullback support levels are at $39.65, $36.23, $33.54, and $29.76.
DigitalOcean&#39;s average consensus price target is $37.67, and its highest analyst price target&nbsp;is&nbsp;$47.00.&nbsp;The stock has five buy ratings and five hold ratings from analysts.
Actionable Options Strategies: DOCN is trading above its consensus target, so&nbsp;it would be prudent to wait out a pullback using&nbsp;cash-secured puts at the fib pullback support levels to buy the dip. If DOCN triggers its second bull flag breakout, then bullish options investors can take a bullish call debit spread for less capital than owning the stock while minimizing downside with capped upside gains.
The article &quot;<a href="https://www.marketbeat.com/originals/cloud-growth-and-ai-digitaloceans-winning-formula-explained/">Cloud Growth and AI: DigitalOcean&#39;s Winning Formula Explained</a>&quot; first appeared on MarketBeat.

Earnings Beats

DOCN

Cloud Growth and AI: DigitalOcean's Winning Formula Explained

The Determination will not result in the immediate suspension of trading or delisting of the Company&#39;s securities.
However, unless the Company requests an appeal of the Determination by October 8, 2024, trading of the Company&#39;s common stock will be suspended from The Nasdaq Capital Market at the opening of business on October 10, 2024, and a Form 25-NSE will be filed with the SEC, which will remove the Company&#39;s securities from listing and registration on Nasdaq.

LUNA

Luna Innovations Gets Nasdaq Staff Determination Letter Regarding Compliance With Nasdaq Listing Rule

Welltower Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/well#NYSE">WELL</a>) owns a diversified portfolio of healthcare real estate assets in the key markets of the United States, Canada and the U.K. The favorable senior housing industry, capital-recycling efforts and a healthy balance sheet are likely to continue aiding the company to ride the growth curve.
This Toledo, OH-based healthcare real estate investment trust (REIT) has gained 36.8% in the past six months compared with the industry&#39;s 13.8% growth.
Analysts seem bullish on this Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WELL&#39;s 2024 FFO per share has moved marginally northward over the past two months to $4.19.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/54/80607.jpg?v=60877358" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Factors That Make Welltower a Solid Pick</h2>
Favorable SHO Portfolio Dynamics: Given an aging population and an expected rise in senior citizens&#39; healthcare expenditure, Welltower&#39;s seniors&#39; housing operating portfolio is well-poised to capitalize on this positive trend. Muted new supply has also been a tailwind for this industry.
With a supply-demand imbalance, the portfolio is expected to experience sustained occupancy growth in 2024 and the coming years. Capitalizing on these positive aspects, Welltower&#39;s SHO portfolio is well-prepared for compelling multiyear revenue growth. In 2024, management anticipates the same-store SHO NOI to grow within 19-23%, driven by favorable results and expectations for continued strength in the second half of 2024.
Favorable OM Visit Trend: There has been a favorable outpatient visits trend compared with in-patient admissions. Banking on this, the company is optimizing its outpatient medical (OM) portfolio, growing relationships with health system partners, and deploying capital in strategic acquisitions. From the beginning of 2024 through July 29, 2024, Welltower carried out pro-rata acquisitions and loan funding totaling $45.6 million for one OM property.
Given the favorable secular trends and growing need for value-based care, the company&#39;s efforts to strengthen its OM footprint will boost long-term growth.
Capital-Recycling Efforts: WELL&#39;s capital-recycling efforts to finance near-term investment and development opportunities highlight its prudent capital management practices and pave the way for long-term growth.
From the beginning of 2024 through July 29, 2024, the company completed pro-rata gross investments of $2.12 billion. This included $1.63 billion in acquisitions and loan funding and $492.7 million in development funding. During this period, pro rata property dispositions and loan payoffs totaled $685.5 million. As of June 30, 2024, eight SHO and one OM properties were classified as held for sale.
Balance Sheet &amp; Cash Flow Strength: Welltower maintains a healthy balance sheet position and has $8.7 billion of available liquidity as of July 26, 2024. The company enjoys investment-grade credit ratings of BBB+ and Baa1 from S&amp;P Global Ratings and Moody&#39;s, respectively, rendering it access to the debt market at favorable rates.
With a well-laddered debt maturity schedule and enough financial flexibility, Welltower is likely to meet its near-term obligations and fund its development pipeline.
WELL&#39;s current cash flow growth is projected at 20.65% compared with a decline of 4.03% estimated for the industry.
<h2>Other Stocks to Consider</h2>
Some other top-ranked stocks from the broader REIT sector are National Health Investors (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nhi#NYSE">NHI</a>) and Alpine Income Property Trust (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pine#NYSE">PINE</a>), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for National Health Investors&#39; 2024 FFO per share is pegged at $4.55, which suggests year-over-year growth of 5.1%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Alpine&#39;s full-year FFO per share stands at $1.65, which indicates an increase of 12.2% from the year-ago period.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO), a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2347046/here-s-why-welltower-stock-is-an-apt-portfolio-pick-for-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|rank_focused-2347046">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Management

General

PINE

WELL

Here's Why Welltower Stock is an Apt Portfolio Pick for Now

On&nbsp;August 27, Charles &amp; Colvard received a purported notice from&nbsp;Ben Franklin, a principal of Riverstyx Capital Management, indicating his intention to nominate three candidates to stand for election to Charles &amp; Colvard&#39;s Board of Directors at the Company&#39;s upcoming Annual Meeting.

CTHR

Charles & Colvard Says Purported Nomination Of Director Candidates By A Riverstyx Principal Is Invalid And That Nominations Will Not Be Recognized

Wells Fargo analyst Michael Turrin maintains ServiceNow (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOW#NYSE">NOW</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $935 to $1025.

Wells Fargo Maintains Overweight on ServiceNow, Raises Price Target to $1025

Pangaea Logistics Solutions Ltd. ("Pangaea" or the "Company") (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANL#NASDAQ">PANL</a>), a global provider of comprehensive maritime logistics solutions, today announced a definitive agreement to purchase the remaining 50% equity ownership of its consolidated subsidiary, Nordic Bulk Partners LLC, from HS Nordic LLC, for $17.2 million in cash. Nordic Bulk Partners LLC was established in 2019 as a joint venture to construct four Ice Class 1A Post-Panamax dry bulk vessels. The transaction is expected to be completed by November 1, 2024 subject to customary closing terms and conditions.
Upon the completion of the transaction, Pangea will own 100% of the equity in Nordic Bulk Partners. The terms of the Nordic Bulk Partners operating agreement include ownership put and call provisions, which have been negotiated and exercised a year earlier than originally stipulated. HS Nordic's 50% equity ownership was recorded on Pangaea's balance sheet as of June 30, 2024 as a long term liability of $16.6 million, which will be extinguished as a result of this purchase

PANL

Pangaea Logistics Solutions Announces A Definitive Agreement To Purchase The Remaining 50% Equity Ownership Of Its Consolidated Subsidiary, Nordic Bulk Partners From HS Nordic For $17.2M In Cash

Wells Fargo analyst Sam Reid maintains Smith Douglas Homes (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SDHC#NYSE">SDHC</a>) with a Equal-Weight and raises the price target from $35 to $40.

SDHC

Wells Fargo Maintains Equal-Weight on Smith Douglas Homes, Raises Price Target to $40

MTCH

Match Group Appoints Steven Bailey As CFO, Effective March 1, 2025; Gary Swidler To Transition Out Of His CFO Role On That Date And Continue In His Position As President Of Company

Wells Fargo analyst Sam Reid maintains PulteGroup (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PHM#NYSE">PHM</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $150 to $165.

Wells Fargo Maintains Overweight on PulteGroup, Raises Price Target to $165

8.75% PRF REDEEM 31/10/2028 USD 25 - Ser A

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