Great Elm Capital Corp. - 5.875% Notes due 2026 Stock (NASDAQ: GECCO)

Great Elm Capital Corp. - 5.875% Notes due 2026 (NASDAQ:GECCO) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Great Elm Capital Corp. - 5.875% Notes due 2026

<h3>Gainers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Treasure Global (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGL#NASDAQ">TGL</a>) shares moved upwards by 36.0% to $0.29 during Friday's pre-market session. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $8.6 million. </li>
<li>Harte-Hanks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HHS#NASDAQ">HHS</a>) stock increased by 15.38% to $5.79. The company's market cap stands at $42.2 million. </li>
<li>VS Media Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VSME#NASDAQ">VSME</a>) stock moved upwards by 9.17% to $1.18. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $5.3 million. </li>
<li>Bumble (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMBL#NASDAQ">BMBL</a>) stock moved upwards by 8.62% to $8.5. The company's market cap stands at $919.5 million. </li>
<li>Super League Enterprise (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SLE#NASDAQ">SLE</a>) shares moved upwards by 7.93% to $0.64. The company's market cap stands at $9.1 million. </li>
<li>QMMM Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QMMM#NASDAQ">QMMM</a>) stock rose 7.35% to $0.88. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $15.1 million. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Losers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Kuke Music Hldg (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KUKE#NYSE">KUKE</a>) shares decreased by 5.8% to $0.45 during Friday's pre-market session. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $20.7 million. </li>
<li>NextPlat (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXPL#NASDAQ">NXPL</a>) stock fell 4.59% to $1.04. The company's market cap stands at $27.0 million. </li>
<li>AirNet Technology (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANTE#NASDAQ">ANTE</a>) stock declined by 4.44% to $0.42. The company's market cap stands at $6.0 million. </li>
<li>Haoxi Health Technology (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HAO#NASDAQ">HAO</a>) stock decreased by 4.35% to $0.13. The company's market cap stands at $9.3 million. </li>
<li>Stran &amp; Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SWAG#NASDAQ">SWAG</a>) shares decreased by 4.34% to $0.73. The company's market cap stands at $13.6 million. 
See Also: <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/best-communication-services-stocks/" title="www.benzinga.com/money/best-communication-services-stocks/">www.benzinga.com/money/best-communication-services-stocks/</a></li>
</ul>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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Walmart Says Gonzalo Gebara CEO Of Walmart Canada Intends To Leave Effective Feb 1; Venessa Yates Will Move To Walmart Canada As CEO; Dave Guggina Will Move To EVP And Chief Ecommerce Officer Of Walmart U.S.

The U.S. economy is defying expectations, and the International Monetary Fund <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s">is taking notice.</a>
With strong consumer demand, supportive financial conditions, and a shifting policy landscape, the IMF now sees U.S. growth accelerating in 2025. Europe and China, meanwhile, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/02/37267095/chinas-economic-instability-worsens-and-heads-towards-2008-era-conditions-like-the-u-s-financial-cri">struggle to gain momentum</a>.
Betting markets are also adjusting, pricing in higher odds of an economic boom under a second Trump term.
In its January update to the flagship World Economic Outlook, published Friday, the Washington-based institution raised its 2025 U.S. growth projection by 0.5 percentage points to 2.7%, the highest upward revision among major economies. 
By contrast, the eurozone saw a 0.2 percentage-point downgrade to 1% growth. Germany's forecast slashed by 0.5 percentage points to a sluggish 0.3%. China's outlook improved only marginally, ticking up 0.1 percentage points to 4.7%.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42781668/trump-administration-will-be-an-unpredictability-machine-economists-warn-maganomics-could-hinder-lon">Trump &#8216;Unpredictability Machine&#8217; Doesn&#8217;t Bode Well, Economists Warn &#8216;Maganomics&#8217; Could Hinder Long-Term Growth</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">US Economy Set For Another Strong Year Of Growth</h3>
&#8220;Momentum in the United States remained robust, with the economy expanding at a rate of 2.7% in year-over-year terms in the third quarter, powered by strong consumption,&#8221; the IMF said.
The strength is driven by a resilient consumer, looser financial conditions, and a surging stock market.
The S&amp;P 500 index — as tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) — has rallied by 50% over the past two years.
The IMF highlighted additional upside growth risks, including fiscal stimulus and deregulation. 
&#8220;Looser fiscal policy in the United States, driven by new expansionary measures such as tax cuts, could boost economic activity in the near term,&#8221; the report said. 
It also indicated that &#8220;confidence and positive sentiment in the United States, partly driven by deregulation, could boost both the demand and the supply side of the economy.&#8221;
Yet, the Washington-based also signaled caution. &#8220;Excessive rollback of regulations designed to put limits on risk-taking and debt accumulation may generate boom-bust dynamics for the United States in the longer term,&#8221; it wrote.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Betting Markets Are Betting On A Trump Boom</h3>
Betting markets as tracked by CFTC-regulated Kalshi show a 17% chance of a U.S. recession in 2025, which represents a steep drop from mid-2024 levels.
The shift in sentiment has coincided with Trump's victory at the November presidential election, as investors expect fresh stimulus policies, including deregulation and tax cuts.
<iframe loading="lazy" src="https://kalshi.com/external-widgets/events/RECSSNBER-25/markets/RECSSNBER-25?color_scheme=dark&#038;widget_size=large" width="552px" height="400px" style="border:0" /></iframe>
A key question is whether a true economic boom could emerge. 
Kalshi shows a 56% probability that at least one quarter between 2025 and 2028 will see GDP growth exceed 5%. That outcome would signal an unusually strong expansion.
<iframe loading="lazy" src="https://kalshi.com/external-widgets/events/KXGDPUSMAX-28/markets/KXGDPUSMAX-28-5?color_scheme=dark&#038;widget_size=large" width="552px" height="400px" style="border:0" /></iframe>
Current betting-market pricing on GDP growth appears instead more conservative, with traders estimating 2025 growth at 2.4%. 
Kalshi's markets offer a payout of $5 per dollar wagered for those betting on growth between 2.6% and 3%. It&#8217;s a range that would align with the IMF's 2.7% forecast.
<iframe loading="lazy" style="border: 0;" src="https://kalshi.com/external-widgets/events/KXGDPYEAR-25?color_scheme=dark&amp;widget_size=large" width="552px" height="400px"></iframe>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43041207/5-things-investors-need-to-know-about-scott-bessents-economic-policies-as-he-faces-senate-grilling-for-treasury-job">5 Things Investors Need To Know About Scott Bessent&#8217;s Economic Policies As He Faces Senate Grilling For Treasury Job</a></li>
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IMF Lifts US Growth Outlook, Betting Markets Raise Odds On Trump-Led Economic Boom

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Crypto hedge fund Wintermute predicts a potential Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) ETF launch in 2025 alongside other potentially revolutionary developments like the establishment of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">strategic Bitcoin reserve in the United States</a>.
This forecast is part of a broader analysis that forecasts a series of pivotal changes in the digital asset market in 2025, including maturation of the options market and increased institutional participation.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dogecoin ETF And Bitcoin Reserve Coming?</h2>
Wintermute highlights the possibility of "a core asset manager launch a meme coin ETF…our money's on DOGE," reflecting growing institutional acceptance of digital assets and increasingly diversified investment vehicles.
The firm also anticipates significant changes to the regulatory landscape, particularly within the United States.
Wintermute expects "a more business-friendly approach likely to prioritize legislative clarity with bills like the Digital Commodities Consumer Protection Act (DCCPA), classifying cryptocurrencies as commodities" under the next US administration.
The fund predicts the U.S. to &#8220;begin consultations to create a strategic Bitcoin reserve,&#8221; forcing China, Europe and the United Arab Emirates to follow.
This move, they believe, may reduce regulatory ambiguity and could lead to greater investment in the crypto sector.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Corporation Getting Into Crypto Could Spark MSTR 2.0</h2>
Increased corporate involvement in the market is also expected. 
"As markets mature, both publicly listed companies and SMEs are expected to increasingly incorporate digital assets into their balance sheets,&#8221; Wintermute stated, further noting corporations may include &#8220;cryptocurrency lending and borrowing markets, tokenized assets, and other novel financial mechanisms.&#8221; 
Based on that, the fund predicts a listed corporation to issue debt or shares to acquire Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), dubbing it MicroStrategy (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) 2.0.
The report&#8217;s broader predictions encompass other significant market trends.
According to Wintermute, "The introduction of options on Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, along with increased institutional participation in the underlying, is expected to have two key impacts,&#8221; one of which is a decline in volatility, as market participants increasingly use hedging techniques. 
The firm also expects normalization of skew as options on Bitcoin (CRPYTO: BTC) and Ethereum see similar use to those of traditional assets such as S&amp;P 500 options for risk management.
They see this shift driving further institutional adoption and financial market innovation.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43053129/bitcoin-miners-consolidate-power-12-firms-now-control-30-of-network-hash-rate">Bitcoin Miners Consolidate Power: 12 Firms Now Control 30% Of Network Hash Rate</a>
Other predictions from the report include:
<ul>
<li>Stablecoin Expansion: &#8220;Major tech companies and payment networks, such as Visa (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), Mastercard (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NYSE">MSTR</a>), and PayPal (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NYSE">PYPL</a>), are increasingly poised to integrate stablecoins into their ecosystems."</li>
<li>Corporate Acquisitions:&nbsp;&#8220;A large corporate event (dividend/acquisition/merger) will be completed and settled in stablecoins.&#8221;</li>
<li>Token Launches and Listings:&nbsp;"The next year is expected to bring a wave of high-profile token launches and significant exchange listings."</li>
<li>Prime Brokerage Integration:&nbsp;"By 2025, crypto could seamlessly integrate with cross-margining solutions, enabling institutions to optimize capital across asset classes."</li>
<li>Spot Cryptocurrency Trading:&nbsp;&#8220;A ‘systemically important' bank will offer spot Cryptocurrency trading to clients."</li>
<li>Structured Product Demand:&nbsp;&#8220;Digital asset dispersion trades become popularised and lead to structured product demand.&#8221;</li>
<li>Non-EVM Layer 1s:&nbsp;"Non-EVM L1/L2s will gain market share, but Ethereum will still be the leader."</li>
<li>DEX Market Share Gains:&nbsp;"DEXs will see strong gains in market share in 2025 if abstraction products get more widely adopted."</li>
</ul>
Wintermute emphasizes that these predictions represent key trends that are expected to shape the future of the cryptocurrency space in the coming year.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">Donald Trump Reportedly Open To US Crypto Reserve As Bitcoin Reserve Chatter Gathers Steam</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

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

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2025 To See Dogecoin ETF, Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, 'MicroStrategy Of Ethereum,' Predicts Crypto Hedge Fund

U.S. stocks traded higher midway through trading, with the S&amp;P 500 gaining around 1% on Friday.
The Dow traded up 0.86% to 43,524.83 while the NASDAQ rose 1.46% to 19,620.72. The S&amp;P 500 also rose, gaining, 1% to 5,996.98.
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43051869/top-3-defensive-stocks-that-could-blast-off-this-quarter">Top 3 Defensive Stocks That Could Blast Off This Quarter</a>
Leading and Lagging Sectors Information technology shares surged by 1.8% on Friday.
In trading on Friday, health care shares rose by just 0.1%.
Top Headline
Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) reported weaker-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings.
Fastenal reported sales growth of 3.7% year-over-year to $1.825 billion, missing the consensus of $1.844 billion. The company's fourth-quarter EPS was 46 cents, missing the estimate of 48 cents.
Equities Trading UP &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Nukkleus Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NUKK#NASDAQ">NUKK</a>) shares shot up 62% to $33.26 after the company announced it resolved its Nasdaq delisting notice and is now achieving compliance with the listing standards.</li>
<li>Shares of Versus Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VS#NASDAQ">VS</a>)got a boost, surging 49% to $2.86 after the company announced expansion into the Brazilian market as part of its strategy to grow its international footprint.</li>
<li>Qorvo Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QRVO#NASDAQ">QRVO</a>) shares were also up, gaining 13% to $83.31 following a WSJ report indicating activist investor Starboard Value has acquired a 7.7% stake in the company.</li>
</ul>
Equities Trading DOWN
<ul>
<li>Scorpius Holdings, Inc. &nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCPX#NYSE">SCPX</a>) shares dropped 27% to $0.27 after the company announced its board approved a 1-for-20 reverse stock split.</li>
<li>Shares of BioLineRx Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLRX#NASDAQ">BLRX</a>) were down 21% to $0.096 after the company announced a dilutive change in the ratio of American depositary shares to ordinary shares. The proposed exchange ratio is equivalent to a 1-for-40 basis reverse stock split.</li>
<li>J B Hunt Transport Services Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBHT#NASDAQ">JBHT</a>) was down, falling 7% to $173.60 after the company reported fourth-quarter EPS below estimates.</li>
</ul>
Commodities In commodity news, oil traded down 0.5% to $78.28 while gold traded down 0.1% at $2,748.00.
Silver traded down 1.8% to $31.160 on Friday, while copper fell 1.4% to $4.3780.
Euro zone
European shares were higher today. The eurozone's STOXX 600 surged 0.74%, Germany's DAX 40 gained 1.15% and France's CAC 40 gained 1.06%. Spain's IBEX 35 Index rose 0.50%, while London's FTSE 100 gained 1.58%.
Asia Pacific Markets
Asian markets closed mixed on Friday, with Japan's Nikkei 225 falling 0.31%, China's Shanghai Composite Index gaining 0.18%, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index climbing 0.31% and India's BSE Sensex falling 0.55%.
Economics
<ul>
<li>U.S. industrial production rose by 0.9% in December, topping market estimates of a 0.3% increase.</li>
<li>Housing starts rose by 15.8% from the previous month to an annualized rate of 1.499 million units in December.</li>
<li>Building permits declined by 0.7% to an annualized rate of 1.483 million in December.</li>
</ul>
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Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on SoundHound AI (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOUN#NASDAQ">SOUN</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with SOUN, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 8 options trades for SoundHound AI.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 25% bullish and 75%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $26,558, and 7, calls, for a total amount of $261,753.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $10.0 to $18.0 for SoundHound AI over the last 3 months. 
<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 SoundHound AI's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to SoundHound AI's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $10.0 to $18.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>SoundHound AI Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737133245_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>SOUN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$4.25</td>
<td>$4.2</td>
<td>$4.25</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$46.3K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td>109</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SOUN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$4.63</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$45.9K</td>
<td>745</td>
<td>211</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SOUN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$0.61</td>
<td>$0.57</td>
<td>$0.58</td>
<td>$14.50</td>
<td>$45.3K</td>
<td>8.5K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SOUN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$1.95</td>
<td>$1.8</td>
<td>$1.94</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
<td>$38.8K</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>223</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SOUN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/24/25</td>
<td>$2.36</td>
<td>$2.35</td>
<td>$2.35</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$29.3K</td>
<td>2.8K</td>
<td>385</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About SoundHound AI</h3>
SoundHound AI Inc is an innovator of conversational intelligence, offering an independent Voice AI platform that enables businesses across industries to deliver high-quality conversational experiences to customers.
Having examined the options trading patterns of SoundHound AI, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>SoundHound AI's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 40,668,039, the SOUN's price is up by 0.43%, now at $14.03. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 41 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About SoundHound AI</h3>
3 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $20.0.
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; An analyst from HC Wainwright &amp; Co. persists with their Buy rating on SoundHound AI, maintaining a target price of $26. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from HC Wainwright &amp; Co. lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $26. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Northland Capital Markets has decided to maintain their Market Perform rating on SoundHound AI, which currently sits at a price target of $8. 
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 SoundHound AI, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

SOUN

Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in SoundHound AI

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with PLTR, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 40 uncommon options trades for Palantir Technologies.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 40% bullish and 50%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 7 are puts, for a total amount of $333,546, and 33 are calls, for a total amount of $4,198,363.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $30.0 to $105.0 for Palantir Technologies over the recent three months. 
<h3>Insights into 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 Palantir Technologies's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Palantir Technologies's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $30.0 to $105.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Palantir Technologies 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737133240_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$10.1</td>
<td>$9.95</td>
<td>$9.95</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$1.8M</td>
<td>7.3K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$10.1</td>
<td>$9.9</td>
<td>$9.9</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$625.7K</td>
<td>7.3K</td>
<td>2.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$41.0</td>
<td>$40.7</td>
<td>$40.9</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$188.1K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
<td>127</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$40.85</td>
<td>$40.6</td>
<td>$40.74</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$187.4K</td>
<td>19.4K</td>
<td>191</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$9.9</td>
<td>$9.85</td>
<td>$9.9</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$168.3K</td>
<td>4.7K</td>
<td>373</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Palantir Technologies</h3>
Palantir is an analytical software company that focuses on leveraging data to create efficiencies in its clients' organizations. The firm serves commercial and government clients via its Foundry and Gotham platforms, respectively. The Denver-based company was founded in 2003 and went public in 2020.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Palantir Technologies, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Palantir Technologies's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 27,846,470, the price of PLTR is up by 3.14%, reaching $71.41.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 17 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Palantir Technologies</h3>
Over the past month, 3 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $70.66666666666667.
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; An analyst from UBS has revised its rating downward to Neutral, adjusting the price target to $80. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Morgan Stanley downgraded its action to Underweight with a price target of $60. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its rating to Neutral, setting a price target of $72. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Palantir Technologies options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

PLTR

What the Options Market Tells Us About Palantir Technologies

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards Walt Disney (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in DIS usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 17 extraordinary options activities for Walt Disney. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 35% leaning bullish and 47% bearish. Among these notable options, 3 are puts, totaling $260,810, and 14 are calls, amounting to $715,318.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $70.0 to $150.0 for Walt Disney over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Walt Disney's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Walt Disney's significant trades, within a strike price range of $70.0 to $150.0, over the past month.
<h3>Walt Disney Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737133234_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 align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DIS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$40.8</td>
<td>$38.4</td>
<td>$40.25</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$241.5K</td>
<td>385</td>
<td align="right">60</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DIS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/31/25</td>
<td>$4.6</td>
<td>$4.35</td>
<td>$4.58</td>
<td>$111.00</td>
<td>$136.5K</td>
<td>345</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DIS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$7.75</td>
<td>$7.65</td>
<td>$7.7</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$77.0K</td>
<td>5.3K</td>
<td align="right">30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DIS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$8.2</td>
<td>$7.95</td>
<td>$7.95</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$69.1K</td>
<td>4.8K</td>
<td align="right">119</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DIS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/31/25</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$3.85</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$104.00</td>
<td>$48.0K</td>
<td>131</td>
<td align="right">120</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Walt Disney</h3>
Disney operates in three global business segments: entertainment, sports, and experiences. Entertainment and experiences both benefit from the firm's ownership of iconic franchises and characters. Entertainment includes the ABC broadcast network, several cable television networks, and the Disney+ and Hulu streaming services. Within the segment, Disney also engages in movie and television production and distribution, with content licensed to movie theaters, other content providers, or, increasingly, kept in-house for use on Disney's own streaming platform and television networks. The sports segment houses ESPN and the ESPN+ streaming service. Experiences contains Disney's theme parks and vacation destinations, and also benefits from merchandise licensing.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Walt Disney, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Where Is Walt Disney Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 3,079,299, the DIS's price is up by 0.98%, now at $107.5. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 19 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Walt Disney</h3>
A total of 2 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $128.5.
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; An analyst from Macquarie persists with their Neutral rating on Walt Disney, maintaining a target price of $110. 
&#x2A; In a positive move, an analyst from Redburn Atlantic has upgraded their rating to Buy and adjusted the price target to $147. 
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 Walt Disney, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Decoding Walt Disney's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

On Friday, the FDA approved AstraZeneca Plc's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) Calquence in combination with bendamustine and rituximab for adult patients with previously untreated mantle cell lymphoma who are ineligible for autologous hematopoietic <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech">stem cell transplantation.</a>
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and typically aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), often diagnosed at an advanced stage. It is estimated that there are more than 21,000 patients diagnosed with MCL in the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan and China.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42363652/soon-after-approval-for-lung-cancer-astrazenecas-cancer-drug-imfinzi-goes-under-fda-priority-review-for-bladder-cancer" rel="noreferrer noopener">After Lung Cancer Approval, AstraZeneca&#8217;s Imfinzi Goes Under FDA Priority Review For Bladder Cancer</a>
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.astrazeneca.com/media-centre/press-releases/2025/calquence-combination-approved-in-us-for-1l-mcl.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">approval</a> was based on results from the ECHO Phase 3 trial presented at the European Hematology Association 2024 Congress.
Results from the ECHO trial showed Calquence  (acalabrutinib) plus bendamustine and rituximab reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 27% compared to standard-of-care chemoimmunotherapy.
Median progression-free survival was 66.4 months for patients treated with the&nbsp;Calquence&nbsp;combination versus 49.6 months with chemoimmunotherapy alone.
The approval additionally converts&nbsp;Calquence's&nbsp;accelerated approval to full approval for adult patients with MCL treated with at least one prior therapy, as granted by the FDA in October 2017.
The ECHO trial enrolled patients throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. After censoring COVID-19 deaths, progression-free survival was further improved in both arms, with the&nbsp;Calquence combination reducing the risk of disease progression or death by 36%.
Although overall survival data were not mature at the time of the analysis, when censored for COVID-19, a favorable trend was seen for overall survival despite 69% of patients in the chemoimmunotherapy arm receiving treatment with a BTK inhibitor on relapse or disease progression.
Price Action: AZN stock is up 0.06% at $66.95 at last check Friday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43054648/wipro-q3-earnings-24-5-profit-jump-it-services-margins-hit-12-quarter-high-boosts-interim-dividend-payout-to-70" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wipro Q3 Earnings: 24.5% Profit Jump, IT Services Margins Hit 12-Quarter High, Boosts Interim Dividend Payout to 70%</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Biotech

Large Cap

Health Care

General

FDA Approves AstraZeneca's Calquence Combo Therapy For Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Introduction</h2>
Building an income-focused portfolio can be tricky. Sometimes we have to sacrifice immense upside price potential for our desired income — especially when it comes to those high-octane growth stocks.
Lucky for us, over the last few years industry incumbents have introduced covered call option strategy ETFs for nearly every high-flying index out there — Nasdaq-100, Russell 2000, etc.
However, it wasn't until recently that an income-focused alternative to these high-flying spot Bitcoin ETFs came about. As an income-focused investor, the <a href="https://neosfunds.com/btci/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">NEOS Bitcoin High Income ETF (BTCI)</a> is my favorite way to own Bitcoin.
By offering its investors a 28% annual distribution yield, this ETF is the best way to own Bitcoin in your portfolio if you care about both monthly income and potential price appreciation in rising markets.
In this analysis, I'm going to…
<ul>
<li>Walk you through BTCI&#8217;s investment strategy</li>
<li>Reflect upon its performance since inception</li>
<li>Suggest where it might fit inside of your income-focused portfolio</li>
</ul>
Let's dig in!
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BTCI&#8217;s Investment Strategy</h2>
The NEOS Bitcoin High Income ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTCI#BATS">BTCI</a>) seeks to distribute monthly income generated from writing call options on Bitcoin via Bitcoin index options — which seems to be the first ETF to do so. Given Bitcoin's historically high volatility, the management team is able to write out-of-the-money call options that don't cover the entire value of the portfolio. This means BTCI's price has the opportunity to move up and down with the price of Bitcoin.
For example, as of 1/13/25 the fund left 22% of its notional value "uncapped." In this scenario, that means 22% of the fund's value can move freely alongside the price of Bitcoin — unburdened by the "cap" of the premium income generated by writing call options.
This specific strategy is important for two reasons:
<ol>
<li>The Achilles heel of these covered call ETFs that could cause them to underperform their benchmark index is writing covered call options against the entirety of the portfolio. When you do this, the ETF's performance is capped by the total amount of premium generated during the month. If you're writing a covered call option contract 3-5% out-of-the-money, once the price of the ETF appreciates beyond that strike price you're technically "losing money."</li>
<li>To address this problem, the NEOS Bitcoin High Income ETF only writes against a portion of the notional value of the portfolio. We know Bitcoin is a very volatile asset — moving up by +39% during the month of November alone. The fund's management team wants to ensure investors can realize moves like that, while pursuing the primary objective of high monthly income.</li>
</ol>
But is this strategy actually working?
Let's analyze the fund's performance since inception and find out.
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BTCI&#8217;s Performance Since Inception</h2>
The NEOS Bitcoin High Income ETF began trading on October 18, 2024. The fund began trading at $50 / share, while the price of Bitcoin was ~$68,000.
As of 1/13/25, the price of Bitcoin has appreciated by +39.7% to ~$95,000 per coin. During the same period of time, BTCI's total return was +31.5% — capturing nearly ~80% of Bitcoin's total return while paying their investors monthly income.
Since inception, the fund has paid investors $4.00 in cash distributions. $1.13 per share in October, $1.41 per share in November, and $1.46 per share in December. Assuming you purchased shares of BTCI at $50 / share — that's an 8% yield paid to investors in only 3-months time.
As of its most recent $1.46 per share distribution in December, the fund is offering investors a 28% annual yield — while simultaneously giving investors the opportunity to realize Bitcoin's price appreciation. The price of BTCI has already appreciated by +20% since inception in October.
As an income-focused investor, this ETF is exceeding expectations. If you're someone who's a bit intimidated by Bitcoin volatility, having that monthly income certainly helps. For example, the total return of BTCI during the month of December was -2.4%, compared to the total return of the price of Bitcoin being -4.3% — a +1.9% difference.
If you can stomach Bitcoin's volatility, more power to you!
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where BTCI Might Fit Inside of Your Income-Focused Portfolio</h2>
Being an income-focused investor has its perks — the names we usually hold inside of our portfolios tend to have resilience during market downturns, we get paid tax-efficient cash on a monthly / quarterly basis, and dividend growth stocks tend to outperform benchmark indices over a long enough time horizon.
However, this investment strategy also has its drawbacks — including the lack of high-octane investment opportunities.
With that being said, I'd argue two things are true:
<ol>
<li>Being an income-focused investor doesn't have to be boring. There are plenty of tax-efficient covered call ETFs that closely track the total performance of the S&amp;P 500, Nasdaq-100, and Russell 2000 — specifically SPYI, QQQI, and IWMI — that offer double-digit annual distribution yields and upside price potential in rising markets.</li>
<li>Everyone should allocate 5-15% of their investment portfolio to Bitcoin, as this asset class over the last 15-years has proven to outperform the stock market over a long enough time horizon.</li>
</ol>
Now that the team over at NEOS has introduced a covered call Bitcoin ETF whose strategy both offers high monthly income and price appreciation in rising markets, there's no excuse to stay on the sidelines.
Personally, I've been a Bitcoin investor since 2017.
Now as I shift my focus away from high-octane opportunities and instead toward income-focused ideas — BTCI is how I will continue to have a ~10% allocation to the evolving asset class throughout my wealth building journey.
In my opinion, it's the best of both worlds.
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
Disclaimer: This is not financial advice or recommendation for any investment. The content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of BTCI, SPYI, QQQI, and IWMI either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it. I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor.

Specialty ETFs

NEOS ETF Trust NEOS Bitcoin High Income ETF

BTCI

BTCI: Unlocking Bitcoin's 28% Annual Distribution Yield

WIIM

TSLA

Tesla shares are trading higher. The stock may be rising ahead of President-elect Trump's upcoming inauguration.

Mastercard Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) stock is trading higher by 4.7% to $524.98 this week following the release of December inflation data, as signs of cooling underlying price pressures <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/43003047/stocks-rise-on-core-inflation-slowdown-banks-rally-after-strong-q4-earnings-treasury-yields-plummet">raised hopes</a> of Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2025. 
What To Know: Core inflation increased slightly below expectations, reinforcing optimism that tighter monetary policy may ease sooner than anticipated. For Mastercard, this shift is particularly favorable, as its business model thrives on consumer and business spending, which historically accelerates in a low-interest-rate environment.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43046030/five-emerging-economies-poised-for-5-growth-in-2025">Five Emerging Economies Poised For 5% Growth In 2025: Should You Buy These ETFs?</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/43001512/inflation-rises-to-29-in-december-core-slows-yet-rising-energy-costs-put-feds-target-at-risk">Lower rates</a> reduce borrowing costs, making credit more accessible to consumers and businesses. This dynamic directly supports higher transaction volumes, which form the backbone of Mastercard's revenue. 
Mastercard also stands to gain from increased cross-border activity, a high-margin segment of its business that benefits from heightened global travel and trade when economic conditions improve. 
Additionally, businesses may expand their payment technology infrastructure during periods of economic growth, potentially boosting Mastercard&#8217;s ecosystem of services.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43055426/oil-dips-as-israeli-security-cabinet-approves-gaza-ceasefire-yet-experts-warn-red-sea-risks-persist">Oil Dips As Israeli Security Cabinet Approves Gaza Ceasefire, Yet Experts Warn Red Sea Risks Persist</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How To Buy MA Stock</h2>
Besides going to a brokerage platform to purchase a share &#8211; or fractional share &#8211; of stock, you can also gain access to shares either by buying an exchange traded fund (ETF) that holds the stock itself, or by allocating yourself to a strategy in your 401(k) that would seek to acquire shares in a mutual fund or other instrument. 
For example, in Mastercard&#8217;s case, it is in the Financials sector. An ETF will likely hold shares in many liquid and large companies that help track that sector, allowing an investor to gain exposure to the trends within that segment.
According to data from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>, MA has a 52-week high of $537.70 and a 52-week low of $427.45.

Why Mastercard Shares Are Trading Higher This Week

A recent analyst note from Bank of America outlines a mixed outlook for the U.S. airline industry in 2025, emphasizing strong performance from network carriers and challenges for leisure-focused <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/airlines">airlines</a>.
What To Know: Lead analyst Andrew Didora says Delta Air Lines Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>) leads the pack with robust revenue growth, fueled by corporate travel, premium offerings and Atlantic route expansion. Its Buy rating is reaffirmed with an unchanged price target of $78.
United Airlines Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>) also holds a Buy rating, supported by similar trends, with a price target of $120.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43031980/big-banks-continue-to-beat-q4-earnings-financial-etf-takes-breather">Big Banks Continue To Beat Q4 Earnings As Financial ETF Takes A Breather</a>
American Airlines Group Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) has been upgraded to Neutral and its price target has been raised from $12 to $20. BofA says the airline stands to benefit from Delta-driven industry trends, including premium revenue growth and recovery in corporate travel. BofA also notes the potential to recapture $1.5 billion in market share lost in 2024, though execution risks temper expectations.
Conversely, Southwest Airlines Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) and JetBlue Airways Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBLU#NASDAQ">JBLU</a>) face downgrades to Underperform. Southwest's price target is lowered from $33 to $31, reflecting challenges in adapting to post-COVID-19 pandemic industry dynamics, including competition from premium and corporate-focused carriers.
JetBlue's price target remains at $6.50 despite limited capacity growth and higher costs, compounded by a tough comparison to 2024's early Easter holiday.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/earnings-beats/25/01/43058636/target-analysts-weigh-in-on-holiday-gains-sales-momentum">Target Analysts Weigh In On Holiday Gains, Sales Momentum</a>
Alaska Air Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALK#NYSE">ALK</a>), rated Buy, sees its price target raised to $80 from $70 by BofA, bolstered by opportunities from its Hawaiian Airlines acquisition.
Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGT#NASDAQ">ALGT</a>) also benefits from a price target increase, climbing from $54 to $95, although concerns about pilot contracts and rising fuel costs persist. 
Frontier Group Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULCC#NASDAQ">ULCC</a>), rated Neutral, has its price target adjusted upward from $7.50 to $9 due to slightly higher earnings forecasts.
What Else: While rising jet fuel prices, up 8% year-to-date, weigh on the sector, network carriers like Delta, United and American remain better positioned. BofA expects these airlines to outperform in 2025, leveraging premium revenues and international routes to navigate cost pressures.
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43017875/southwest-airlines-is-sued-by-department-of-transportation-over-chronically-delayed-flights">Southwest Airlines Is Sued By Department Of Transportation Over &#8216;Chronically Delayed&#8217; Flights</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Upgrades

Downgrades

Price Target

Reiteration

Travel

Analyst Ratings

ALGT

JBLU

ULCC

Bank Of America: Delta, United To Lead Airline Industry In 2025

Qorvo, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QRVO#NASDAQ">QRVO</a>) stock is moving higher on Friday following a Wall Street Journal report revealing that activist investor Starboard Value has acquired a 7.7% stake <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/43048211/qorvo-soars-7-after-hours-as-activist-investor-starboard-reportedly-takes-stake-in-semiconductor-company">in the company</a>.
The Details: The <a href="https://www.wsj.com/finance/starboard-builds-big-stake-in-chip-maker-qorvo-7a18a71f">report</a> values the stake at about $500 million. Since the report, Qorvo has filed a Schedule 13D with the Securities and Exchange Commission, confirming the activist investor's investment in the company.
Qorvo&#8217;s stock has struggled in recent months, sliding 22.15% over the past three months. The chipmaker has faced strong competition from competitors such as Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>).
The company&#8217;s latest investor, Starboard Value, has remained active in the semiconductor sector, with past investments in companies like NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Marvell Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVL#NASDAQ">MRVL</a>), highlighting a potential strategic focus that may extend to Qorvo.
Qorvo&#8217;s stock suffered in late October after the company issued third-quarter guidance that fell below analyst estimates. It projected adjusted earnings per share between $1.10 and $1.30, versus analyst estimates of $1.92, and revenue between $875 million and $925 million, versus analyst estimates of $1.05 billion.
The company is set to release third-quarter earnings on Jan. 28 after the market closes. Qorvo will host a conference call to review its earnings at 4:30 p.m. EST that same day.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/short-sellers/25/01/43056477/how-is-the-market-feeling-about-boeing">How Is The Market Feeling About Boeing?</a>
QRVO Price Action: At the time of writing Qorvo stock is trading 11.6% higher at $81.86, according to data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Image: via Unsplash

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What's Going On With Qorvo Shares Friday?

Raymond James analyst Justin Jenkins maintains Chevron (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $175 to $180.

Raymond James Maintains Outperform on Chevron, Raises Price Target to $180

Raymond James analyst Justin Jenkins maintains BP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BP#NYSE">BP</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $36 to $37.

Raymond James Maintains Outperform on BP, Raises Price Target to $37

<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="586" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16084402/60-40--1024x586.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4711" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16084402/60-40--1024x586.jpg 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16084402/60-40--300x172.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16084402/60-40--768x440.jpg 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16084402/60-40-.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The End Of The 60/40 Portfolio&nbsp;</h2>
For years, a common investing approach was the 60/40 portfolio: 60% in stocks, and 40% in bonds. The idea behind it was simple: bonds were expected to outperform when stocks underperformed, and vice-versa. But as Tatiana Darie of Bloomberg pointed out yesterday (&#8220;<a href="https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/shifting-correlations-unleash-market-havoc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Shifting Correlations Unleash Market Havoc</a>&#8220;), that is no longer the case:
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">Whether&nbsp;good&nbsp;or bad, shifting correlations are poised to wreak havoc on cross-asset strategies, and hedging assumptions will likely need to change. In the current environment, bonds are no longer proving to be a shield from stock losses.&nbsp;Jim Bianco&nbsp;of Bianco Research says the reason to hold bonds is changing, calling the days of the 60/40 portfolio&nbsp;"over."
It also means that trading might require a more creative and active approach that goes beyond traditional (and stale) assumptions.
</blockquote>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Moving Beyond Traditional (And Stale) Assumptions</h2>
As it happens, we developed an approach that moves beyond traditional assumptions. Specifically, it moves beyond the assumption that asset allocation is useful at all. The 60/40 portfolio, and other forms of asset allocation, deliberately put you in asset classes expected to perform badly. Why not put your money in assets you expect will do well? If you&#8217;re worried about downside risk, you can hedge with options. That&#8217;s essentially our approach, <a href="https://portfolioarmor.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">The Hedged Portfolio Method</a>. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Hedged Portfolio Method&nbsp;</h2>
Here&#8217;s how our method works, in a nutshell:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Our system estimates 6-month returns for each security with options traded on it in the U.S. In addition to stocks, this universe of securities includes bond and commodity ETFs and even inverse ETFs. Our system is completely agnostic when it comes to asset class.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Next, our system finds optimal hedges for each security, and calculates their cost.&nbsp;</li>
<li>We subtract the hedging costs in 2. from the estimated returns in 1. and rank the securities by expected return, net of hedging cost.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The names that come to the top of the list in 3. are our top names. We buy and hedge a handful of them.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
There are some additional steps, such as using a tightly collared &#8220;cash substitute&#8221; to minimize cash and boost returns, but that&#8217;s the gist of it.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Precisely Limiting Your Risk</h2>
One advantage of our approach is that you can precisely limit your risk. Don&#8217;t want to risk a decline of more than 17% over the next 6 months? Our system will hedge it so you don&#8217;t. Much different from putting 40% of your money in bonds and hoping for the best.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Real World Example&nbsp;</h2>
Here&#8217;s a portfolio our system created for an investor in July of last year. This was for an investor unwilling to risk a decline of more than 20% over the next 6 months. This one included&nbsp;American Superconductor Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMSC#NASDAQ">AMSC</a>),&nbsp;Abercrombie &amp; Fitch Co.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANF#NYSE">ANF</a>),&nbsp;Constellation Energy Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>),&nbsp;Dell Technologies, Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>),&nbsp;Navios Maritime Partners LP&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NMM#NYSE">NMM</a>),&nbsp;Natera, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTRA#NASDAQ">NTRA</a>), and&nbsp;Powell Industries, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/POWL#NASDAQ">POWL</a>).
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="776" height="717" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085209/1-Portfolio.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4712" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085209/1-Portfolio.jpg 776w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085209/1-Portfolio-300x277.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085209/1-Portfolio-768x710.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 776px) 100vw, 776px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="778" height="598" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085242/2-Portfolio.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4713" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085242/2-Portfolio.jpg 778w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085242/2-Portfolio-300x231.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085242/2-Portfolio-768x590.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 778px) 100vw, 778px" /></figure>
Here is how that portfolio performed over the next six months:&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="623" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085327/Tracked-Portfolio-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4714" style="width:800px;height:auto" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085327/Tracked-Portfolio-1.jpg 800w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085327/Tracked-Portfolio-1-300x234.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085327/Tracked-Portfolio-1-768x598.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="319" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085411/Tracked-Portfolio-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4715" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085411/Tracked-Portfolio-2.jpg 800w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085411/Tracked-Portfolio-2-300x120.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085411/Tracked-Portfolio-2-768x306.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>
You can find an interactive version of that chart&nbsp;<a href="https://portfolioarmor.com/front_tests/5837">here</a>. And you can see how hundreds of other hedged portfolios have done&nbsp;<a href="https://portfolioarmor.com/performance-tracking-portfolios">here</a>.&nbsp;
If you&#8217;d like to stay in touch
You can scan for optimal hedges for individual securities, find our current top ten names, and create hedged portfolios on <a href="https://portfolioarmor.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">our website</a>. You can also follow Portfolio Armor on X <a href="https://twitter.com/portfolioarmor">here</a>, or become a free subscriber to <a href="https://portfolioarmor.substack.com/">our trading Substack</a> using the link below (we&#8217;re using that for our occasional emails now).
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://portfolioarmor.substack.com/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="602" height="418" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085726/Widget-5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4716" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085726/Widget-5.jpg 602w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16085726/Widget-5-300x208.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px" /></a></figure>

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The End Of The 60/40 Portfolio

Raymond James analyst Justin Jenkins maintains Marathon Petroleum (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MPC#NYSE">MPC</a>) with a Strong Buy and raises the price target from $190 to $192.

Raymond James Maintains Strong Buy on Marathon Petroleum, Raises Price Target to $192

Raymond James analyst Simon Leopold maintains Nutanix (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTNX#NASDAQ">NTNX</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $83 to $76.

NTNX

Raymond James Maintains Outperform on Nutanix, Lowers Price Target to $76

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