HLS Therapeutics (OTC:HLTRF) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

HLS Therapeutics

HLS Therapeutics Inc is a specialty pharmaceutical company. It is focused on the acquisition and commercialization of branded pharmaceutical products in the North American markets. The company products include Clozaril, Vascepa, CSAN Pronto, and others. The company earns revenue in the form of product sales and royalties, out of which product sales contribute to the majority of the revenue. The company operates in Canada, and the United States, and the Rest of the world.

HLS THERAPEUTICS INC by HLS Therapeutics Inc.

HLS Therapeutics Inc

WIIM

CJET

DENN

FRZA

GSUN

JZXN

LAZR

MGOL

PENN

PLBY

PTON

SERV

TDUP

VEEE

YOSH

ZAPP

Shares of companies within the broader consumer discretionary sector are trading higher following better-than-expected consumer sentiment data. Strong earnings from RH and anticipated rate cuts may be lifting the sector.

<p>Barclays  analyst Balaji Prasad   downgrades Revance Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RVNC#NASDAQ">RVNC</a>) from Overweight to Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $10 to $7.</p>


News

Downgrades

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

RVNC

Barclays Downgrades Revance Therapeutics to Equal-Weight, Lowers Price Target to $7

<p><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/interest-rates">Interest rate cuts</a> can significantly influence cash movement into money markets, but the popular belief that this maneuver automatically drives stock market gains is often overstated. </p>
<p>Earlier this month, JPMorgan strategists stated in a research note that the Federal Reserve&#8217;s anticipated rate cuts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40700320/jpmorgan-warns-anticipated-rate-cuts-may-not-significantly-boost-stock-markets-fed-will-start-ea">might not be sufficient</a> to drive a new surge in the stock market. </p>
<p>"Fed will start easing, but more in a reactive way and as a response to weakening growth — this might not be enough to drive a next leg higher," they said.</p>
<p><strong>See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/09/40860025/homeowners-have-never-been-richer-data-shows-another-reason-to-question-recession-narrative">Homeowners Have Never Been Richer, Data Shows: &#8216;Another Reason To Question Recession Narrative&#8217;</a></strong></p>
<p>Many investors think cash will flood into stocks as money market yields decline, driving higher prices.</p>
<p>However, this cash-on-the-sidelines theory ignores a fundamental reality: every stock purchase has a seller on the other side, meaning no new money truly enters the market. </p>
<p>Stock trading is a two-way street and a business of shares and funds swapping hands between buyers and sellers. When one meets the other, money merely changes ownership.</p>
<p>Even in initial public offerings (IPOs), primary investors and the company sell shares to new buyers, transferring funds from one party to another. For secondary offerings, dilution occurs, where existing shareholders' stakes become less valuable as more shares are issued.</p>
<p>Despite this, the myth of sidelined cash persists, particularly in bullish periods. Portfolio Manager and CFA Charterholder <strong>Ben Carlson</strong> recently <a href="https://awealthofcommonsense.com/2024/09/what-happens-to-the-money-market-cash-on-the-sidelines/">provided</a> a historical perspective.</p>
<p>By observing historical data, he demonstrated that falling money market yields haven't led to a significant exodus of money from these funds in the past. While the $6.3 trillion sum in money market funds looks astronomical right now—it is double the pre-pandemic level—when money market yields previously fell, such as in 2005-2009, assets in these funds surged rather than fell.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXch4_cTdX6mevY0lhG49WWm6xGPJG0WwcPtCX-QaeDpQdmQ92CYUSwHJ1sOdINvh3ST0SLHFpppEPhcO97Ccs7YChKPq1zqpDTG59OVN5pNOF-uWii88Q_TYuXXq95xjTfaLPqPbN3gBq-6ye5Bk5V-orv7?key=uX36GD2qkU23f8oKjB8mRQ" alt="" /></figure></p>
<p>Relationship between Money Market Funds and yields, Source: Bloomberg / Ritholtz Wealth Management</p>
<p>One reason for this is the purpose of money market funds. Much of the money in these funds isn't meant for stock investments but serves other purposes like emergency savings, corporate reserves, or funds allocated for short-term expenses. This money is parked in liquid assets that offer safety and liquidity, not growth. Even when interest rates drop, many investors prefer to keep their money in these funds rather than take on the volatility of stocks.</p>
<p>The relationship between interest rates and market behavior is complex. In periods of falling yields, investors may shift to other safe assets, like bonds, rather than chase stock market gains. Falling yields often signify a flight to safety, and equities are typically too risky assets to fit into that narrative.</p>
<p>But the bond market was annihilated in 2021 and 2022, marking some of the worst times for fixed-income investors. Rapidly rising interest rates pushed the 10-year yield to almost 5%—a level not seen since July 2007.</p>
<p>Given the current economic environment, marked by historically high price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios, a prolonged market consolidation seems possible even for a soft landing. </p>
<p>This scenario would allow earnings growth to become a more prominent driver of market re-pricing, as it reduces the inflated P/E ratios without requiring new cash to enter the system. Thus, despite the myths, it's not cash flow but the willingness to pay that drives stock prices up or down.</p>
<p><strong>Now Read: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/40857676/what-changed-federal-reserve-may-take-a-bigger-50-basis-points-rate-cut-bite-next-week-mar">&#8216;What Changed?&#8217; — Federal Reserve May Take A Bigger 50 Basis Points Rate Cut Bite Next Week, Market Odds Imply</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Image: </em></p>


Equities

Bonds

Federal Reserve

Markets

Why Interest Rate Cuts Won't Automatically Boost The Stock Market

<p>Shares of <strong>Fulcrum Therapeutics, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fulc#NASDAQ">FULC</a>) plunged 61.1% on Sept. 12 after the company announced disappointing top-line data from the phase III REACH study, which evaluated its pipeline candidate, losmapimod, for treating patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a rare and debilitating disease.</p>
<p>Currently, there are no treatments approved for the given indication.</p>
<p>The study did not meet its primary endpoint as treatment with losmapimod failed to demonstrate a change from baseline in relative surface area (RSA), a measure of reachable workspace (RWS), compared with placebo at week 48.</p>
<p>The study also failed to achieve nominal statistical significance on the secondary endpoints.</p>
<p>Year to date, shares of Fulcrum have plunged 49% compared with the industry&#39;s decline of 0.8%.</p>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/ab/77679.jpg?v=1785498249" style="height:371px; width:592px" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<h2>Data From FULC&#39;s REACH study</h2>
<p>Data from the REACH study showed that treatment with losmapimod led to a 0.013 improvement in RSA compared to a 0.010 improvement in RWS for patients who received a placebo at week 48. This was the study&#39;s primary endpoint.</p>
<p>Also, patients receiving losmapimod demonstrated an increase of 0.42% in muscle fat infiltration while an increase of 0.57% in MFI was observed for patients who received placebo at week 48.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, patients who were treated with losmapimod demonstrated a 9.63% improvement in abductor strength compared with a 2.24% improvement in the placebo arm.</p>
<p>There were no statistically significant differences observed in the two patient-reported outcomes secondary endpoints of the REACH study.</p>
<p>Following the disappointing data observed in the REACH study, FULC decided to stop the further development of losmapimod in FSHD.</p>
<h2>What&#39;s Next for FULC in Terms of Pipeline Development</h2>
<p>Fulcrum is developing another pipeline candidate, pociredir, in an early-stage study for treating patients with sickle cell disease, an inherited blood disorder. The phase Ib PIONEER study evaluates pociredir in SCD.</p>
<p>The FDA has already granted a Fast Track designation and Orphan Drug designation to pociredir for the treatment of patients with SCD.</p>
<p>SCD has a significant unmet medical need, and if successfully developed and upon potential approval, pociredir has the potential to boost FULC&#39;s prospects in the days ahead.</p>
<p>As of June 30. 2024, Fulcrum had $273.8 million in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities. The company plans to use the funds to advance pociredir in the treatment of SCD and other pipeline development activities.</p>
<h2>Zacks Rank &amp; Other Stocks to Consider</h2>
<p>Fulcrum currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).</p>
<p>Some other top-ranked stocks in the biotech sector are <strong>Illumina, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ilmn#NASDAQ">ILMN</a>) and <strong>Krystal Biotech, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/krys#NASDAQ">KRYS</a>), each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 at present.</p>
<p>In the past 60 days, estimates for Illumina&#39;s 2024 earnings per share have moved up from $1.18 to $3.62. Earnings per share estimates for 2025 have improved from $2.93 to $4.43. Year to date, shares of ILMN have lost 9.3%.</p>
<p>ILMN&#39;s earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 463.46%.</p>
<p>In the past 60 days, estimates for Krystal Biotech&#39;s 2024 earnings per share have increased from $1.98 to $2.38. Earnings per share estimates for 2025 have improved from $4.33 to $7.31. Year to date, shares of KRYS have risen 57.7%.</p>
<p>KRYS&#39; earnings beat estimates in three of the trailing four quarters while missing on the remaining occasion, the average surprise being 45.95%.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2336049/fulc-stock-falls-as-muscle-disorder-study-misses-primary-goal?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|company_news_medical_sector-2336049">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Biotech

Earnings

Earnings Beats

Large Cap

Penny Stocks

Small Cap

Trading Ideas

General

FULC

ILMN

KRYS

FULC Stock Falls as Muscle Disorder Study Misses Primary Goal

CHWY

ETSY

KIRK

PLCE

SFIX

Shares of retail and consumer discretionary stocks are trading higher following better-than-expected consumer sentiment data. Strong earnings from RH may also be lifting consumer spending sentiment.

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on <strong>Merck &amp; Co</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with MRK, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 8 uncommon options trades for Merck &amp; Co.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 0% bullish and 100%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 4 are puts, for a total amount of $223,103, and 4 are calls, for a total amount of $197,991.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $85.0 to $130.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the last 3 months. </p>
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>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 Merck &amp; Co'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 Merck &amp; Co's whale trades within a strike price range from $85.0 to $130.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Merck &amp; Co 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726256140_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$0.84</td>
<td>$0.82</td>
<td>$0.82</td>
<td>$114.00</td>
<td>$108.6K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$32.2</td>
<td>$32.0</td>
<td>$32.0</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$92.8K</td>
<td>136</td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$0.96</td>
<td>$0.79</td>
<td>$0.96</td>
<td>$114.00</td>
<td>$54.0K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$2.72</td>
<td>$2.62</td>
<td>$2.61</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$44.3K</td>
<td>6.4K</td>
<td>186</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$0.99</td>
<td>$0.95</td>
<td>$0.99</td>
<td>$114.00</td>
<td>$32.5K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>4.3K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<p>Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.</p>
<p>Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Merck &amp; Co, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 4,446,595, the MRK's price is down by -0.01%, now at $115.23. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 41 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<p>Over the past month, 1 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $155.0.</p>
<ul>
<li>Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald lowers its rating to Overweight with a new price target of $155.</li>
</ul>
<p>Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Merck &amp; Co with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


Options

Merck & Co Unusual Options Activity

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on <strong>Williams-Sonoma</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WSM#NYSE">WSM</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with WSM, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 12 uncommon options trades for Williams-Sonoma.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 25% bullish and 75%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 9 are puts, for a total amount of $381,921, and 3 are calls, for a total amount of $168,940.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $130.0 to $150.0 for Williams-Sonoma over the last 3 months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>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 Williams-Sonoma'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 Williams-Sonoma's whale trades within a strike price range from $130.0 to $150.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Williams-Sonoma Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726256135_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WSM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$3.2</td>
<td>$3.3</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$129.3K</td>
<td>246</td>
<td>430</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WSM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$1.05</td>
<td>$0.55</td>
<td>$1.03</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$101.4K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WSM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$45.5K</td>
<td>246</td>
<td>575</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WSM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$2.3</td>
<td>$2.3</td>
<td>$2.3</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$37.9K</td>
<td>744</td>
<td>415</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WSM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$17.3</td>
<td>$16.9</td>
<td>$16.9</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$35.4K</td>
<td>94</td>
<td>31</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Williams-Sonoma</h3>
<p>With a retail and direct-to-consumer presence, Williams-Sonoma is a player in the $300 billion domestic home category and $450 billion international home market, focused on expanding its exposure in the B2B ($80 billion total addressable market), marketplace, and franchise areas. Namesake Williams-Sonoma (156 stores) offers high-end cooking essentials, while Pottery Barn (184) provides casual home accessories. West Elm (121) is an emerging concept for young professionals, and Rejuvenation (11) offers lighting and house parts. Brand extensions include Pottery Barn Kids and PBteen (45) as well as Mark &amp; Graham and Greenrow. Williams-Sonoma also has a business-to-business team that supports projects that range from residential to large-scale commercial.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Williams-Sonoma, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>Current Position of Williams-Sonoma</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,292,374, the price of WSM is up by 6.13%, reaching $144.19.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 62 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Williams-Sonoma</h3>
<p>Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $155.0.</p>
<ul>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wedbush keeps a Outperform rating on Williams-Sonoma with a target price of $150. </li>
<li>An analyst from Telsey Advisory Group has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on Williams-Sonoma, which currently sits at a price target of $165. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Telsey Advisory Group continues to hold a Outperform rating for Williams-Sonoma, targeting a price of $170. </li>
<li>An analyst from Baird persists with their Neutral rating on Williams-Sonoma, maintaining a target price of $140. </li>
<li>An analyst from TD Cowen has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Williams-Sonoma, which currently sits at a price target of $150. </li>
</ul>
<p>Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Williams-Sonoma, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


Williams-Sonoma's Options Frenzy: What You Need to Know

<p>High-rolling investors have positioned themselves bullish on Caterpillar (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>), and it's important for retail traders to take note.<br />
\This activity came to our attention today through Benzinga's tracking of publicly available options data. The identities of these investors are uncertain, but such a significant move in CAT often signals that someone has privileged information.</p>
<p>Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 10 options trades for Caterpillar. This is not a typical pattern.</p>
<p>The sentiment among these major traders is split, with 50% bullish and 40% bearish. Among all the options we identified, there was one put, amounting to $28,410, and 9 calls, totaling $5,745,464.</p>
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
<p>After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $320.0 and $370.0 for Caterpillar, spanning the last three months.</p>
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for Caterpillar options trades today is 1015.2 with a total volume of 4,522.00.</p>
<p>In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for Caterpillar's big money trades within a strike price range of $320.0 to $370.0 over the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>Caterpillar Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726256130_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CAT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$17.35</td>
<td>$16.55</td>
<td>$16.75</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
<td>$5.1M</td>
<td>5.2K</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/25/24</td>
<td>$23.65</td>
<td>$23.65</td>
<td>$23.65</td>
<td>$325.00</td>
<td>$246.1K</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>104</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$2.84</td>
<td>$2.82</td>
<td>$2.83</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$74.7K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td>830</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/13/24</td>
<td>$7.9</td>
<td>$6.9</td>
<td>$7.4</td>
<td>$337.50</td>
<td>$74.0K</td>
<td>699</td>
<td>134</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$11.2</td>
<td>$11.1</td>
<td>$11.2</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$38.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>70</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Caterpillar</h3>
<p>Caterpillar is the top manufacturer of heavy equipment, power solutions, and locomotives. It is currently the world's largest manufacturer of heavy equipment. The company is divided into four reportable segments: construction industries, resource industries, energy and transportation, and Cat Financial. Its products are available through a dealer network that covers the globe with about 2,700 branches maintained by 160 dealers. Cat Financial provides retail financing for machinery and engines to its customers, in addition to wholesale financing for dealers, which increases the likelihood of Caterpillar product sales.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Caterpillar, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of Caterpillar</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,419,170, the price of CAT is up by 0.47%, reaching $341.19.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 46 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Caterpillar</h3>
<p>A total of 1 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $321.0.</p>
<ul>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Evercore ISI Group keeps a In-Line rating on Caterpillar with a target price of $321. </li>
</ul>
<p>Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Caterpillar, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


This Is What Whales Are Betting On Caterpillar

Macro Economic Events

Politics

Economics

U.s=S. Vice President Harris Giving Interview To ABC Affiliate In Philadelphia; Harris To Join Oprah Winfrey For Livestream Next Week

<p>CL King  analyst Kristen Stewart   initiates coverage on Haemonetics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HAE#NYSE">HAE</a>) with a Buy rating and announces Price Target of $116.</p>


Initiation

CL King Initiates Coverage On Haemonetics with Buy Rating, Announces Price Target of $116

CRSR

Corsair Has Acquired Business Operations Of Endor AG As Part Of An Asset Deal; Shares In Foreign Subsidiaries Will Also Be Transferred; Company's Real Estate Remains Up For Sale; Endor Will Be Fully Liquidated As Part Of Insolvency Proceedings And Its Stock Market Listing Will Be Terminated Shortly; Shareholders Should Expect Not To Receive Any Payments

<p>American Express (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 3.44% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 16.72%. Currently, American Express has a market capitalization of $182.35 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $1000 In AXP:</strong> If an investor had bought $1000 of AXP stock 5 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$2,192.62</strong> today based on a price of $256.50 for AXP at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>American Express's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726255997_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


$1000 Invested In This Stock 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth $2,200 Today

<p>GE Aero (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 17.44% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 30.72%. Currently, GE Aero has a market capitalization of $183.39 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $1000 In GE:</strong> If an investor had bought $1000 of GE stock 5 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$3,808.39</strong> today based on a price of $169.13 for GE at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>GE Aero's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726255992_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


Here's How Much $1000 Invested In GE Aero 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

<p>There's a lot of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/39069576/are-you-rich-heres-the-net-worth-you-need-to-be-poor-middle-class-and-wealthy">talk about being rich</a> or wealthy. While the terms are used interchangeably, they aren't the same. Sure, both involve having a lot of money, but how that money works for you and your future is where the real difference comes in.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Don't Miss:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —</strong><a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"><strong> </strong><strong>How do you compare</strong></a><strong>?</strong></li>
<li><strong>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? &#8211;</strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/retire-5mil-nest-egg"><strong> </strong><strong>How does it compare to the average?</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Rich vs. Wealthy: What's the Difference?</strong></p>
<p>Being rich usually means having a high income or a sudden windfall. For example, in 2023, the average personal income in the U.S. was $59,384. But <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/24/01/36665585/how-much-money-do-you-need-to-make-to-be-among-the-top-1-5-or-10-based-on-inc">to be in the top 1%</a>, you must make an average annual income of $819,324 a year. That's rich – but not necessarily wealthy.</p>
<p>Wealth, on the other hand, isn't just about how much money you make. It's more about the assets you've built up – like investments, real estate or owning a business – that can generate income even if you're not working. It's about having enough to cover your lifestyle for the long haul.</p>
<p>According to the 2024 Charles Schwab Modern Wealth Survey, people believe it takes $2.5 million to be considered wealthy in today's economy.</p>
<p><strong>Trending: The number of ‘401(k)' Millionaires is up 43% from last year —</strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/401k-millionaires"><strong> </strong><strong>Here are three ways to join the club.</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>Are You Spending or Building?</strong></p>
<p>Rich people often focus on earning a lot of money and spending it on luxury cars, expensive trips and big houses. They can afford a high-end lifestyle, but they're also often tied to keeping that high income coming in to support it. If their income were to stop, their lifestyle might take a hit.</p>
<p>Wealthy people, on the other hand, focus on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/38697769/can-you-guess-what-percentage-of-a-high-net-worth-individuals-portfolio-is-typically-held-in-ret">building a portfolio of assets</a> that generate income independently. This could be through investments in stocks, bonds, rental properties or businesses. Wealthy individuals aren't as dependent on their jobs or a single source of income because their assets work for them.</p>
<p><strong>Trending:Founder of Personal Capital and ex-CEO of PayPal</strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/evergreen-money"><strong> </strong><strong>re-engineers traditional banking with this new high-yield account — start saving better today.</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>The Mindset Shift</strong></p>
<p>One big difference is mindset. Being rich is often about living in the moment – earning and spending a lot. There's less focus on what happens down the road. Wealthy people, however, think long-term. They're saving, investing and growing their money so they can have financial security for the rest of their lives and possibly for future generations, too.</p>
<p><strong>Time and Compound Interest</strong></p>
<p>Here's a key factor: time. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/38849017/suze-orman-warns-you-want-to-be-a-multi-millionaire-dont-insult-the-beauty-of-compound-interest-">Wealth isn't built overnight but over the years,</a> thanks to the power of compound interest. Compound interest is the idea that your money makes money and that money makes more money over time. Someone focusing on being rich may get there quickly, but someone building wealth knows patience pays off.</p>
<p><strong>Trending: A billion-dollar investment strategy with minimums as low as $10 —</strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/fundrise-flagship-fund"><strong> </strong><strong>you can become part of the next big real estate boom today.</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>Measuring the Difference</strong></p>
<p>Rich people are often measured by their income. Wealthy people, though, are measured by their net worth – how much they own minus how much they owe. A person can earn a huge salary but not wealthy if they have high debt or no savings. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/07/39988155/charlie-munger-said-the-point-of-getting-rich-is-so-you-dont-have-to-get-along-with-other-people">Financial independence is a better measure of wealth – </a>can you live comfortably without working because your assets provide enough income? That's real wealth.</p>
<p>At the end of the day, being rich might get you the finer things in life, but <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/can-you-guess-how-many-americans-successfully-retire-with-1-million-saved">being wealthy is about financial freedom</a>. It's having the ability to do what you want with your time and money without being tied to a paycheck. So, the real question is: are you just rich or are you building wealth that will last?&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Read Next:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Are you richer than most people you know?</strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-richer-than-most-people"><strong> </strong><strong>Here&#8217;s the net worth you need at every age to be above average.</strong></a></li>
<li><strong>These five entrepreneurs are worth $223 billion –</strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-homes-private-credit-fund"><strong> </strong><strong>they all believe in one platform that offers a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends</strong></a></li>
</ul>


Personal Finance

Do You Know If You're Wealthy Or Just 'Rich'? Here's The Difference And How Much You Need To Be Both

<p>JP Morgan  analyst Mark Murphy   maintains Oracle (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $120 to $140.</p>


ORCL

JP Morgan Maintains Neutral on Oracle, Raises Price Target to $140

<p><strong>MetLife, Inc.</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/met#NYSE">MET</a>) benefits on the back of a well-performing Group Benefits business, acquisitions and partnerships, cost-cutting efforts and strong cash balance.</p>
<h2>Zacks Rank &amp; Price Performance</h2>
<p>MetLife carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present.</p>
<p>The stock has gained 10% in the past three months compared with the industry&#39;s growth of 5.3%. The Zacks Finance sector and the S&amp;P 500 composite index have returned 0.8% and 2.4%, respectively, in the said time frame.</p>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/c8/77767.jpg?v=1023352585" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<h2>Favorable Style Score</h2>
<p>MetLife carries an impressive Value Score of A. Value Score helps find stocks that are undervalued. Back-tested results show that stocks with a Value Score of A or B, when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2, offer the best opportunities in the value investing space.</p>
<h2>Robust Growth Prospects</h2>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for MetLife&#39;s 2024 earnings is pegged at $8.67 per share, which indicates an improvement of 18.3% from the 2023 reported figure. The consensus mark for revenues is $73.2 billion, implying a rise of 2% from the 2023 figure. MET&#39;s earnings estimates witnessed seven upward revisions over the past 60 days against no downward movement.</p>
<p>The consensus mark for 2025 earnings is pegged at $9.83 per share, suggesting an improvement of 13.4% from the 2024 estimate. The same for revenues is $76.5 billion, hinting at a 4.6% increase from the 2024 estimate.</p>
<h2>Valuation</h2>
<p>Price-to-book (P/B) is one of the multiples used for valuing insurance stocks. Compared with the multiline industry&#39;s trailing 12-month P/B ratio of 2.57, MetLife has a reading of 1.92. It is quite evident that the stock is currently undervalued.</p>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/0a/77768.jpg?v=1057971813" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<h2>Solid Return on Equity</h2>
<p>Return on equity in the trailing 12 months is currently 21.4%, which is higher than the industry&#39;s average of 16.2%. This substantiates the company&#39;s efficiency in utilizing shareholders&#39; funds.</p>
<h2>Business Tailwinds</h2>
<p>A key revenue contributor is MetLife&#39;s steady premiums, which have been recovering from pandemic-driven declines. Premiums are witnessing a steady increase in the Group Benefits business, wherein it rose 4% year over year in the first half of 2024. Growth has also been robust in its EMEA and Latin America segments, further contributing to the company&#39;s revenue stream.</p>
<p>MetLife&#39;s focus on streamlining its business, coupled with strategic acquisitions and partnerships, is expected to drive long-term growth. The company has expanded its presence in key areas like vision care and pet insurance through acquisitions, such as Versant Health and PetFirst. It has also strengthened its benefits offerings through partnerships with firms like Aura and Nayya.</p>
<p>A strategic push into private credit investments, marked by the acquisition of Raven Capital, and a collaboration with Fidelity Investments on a fixed immediate income annuity further diversify its business portfolio. Additionally, MetLife continues to reduce volatility by divesting capital-intensive units and intensifying focus on high-growth areas. &nbsp;</p>
<p>MetLife&#39;s cost-saving measures have resulted in notable operational improvements. Between 2015 and 2020, the company saw an improvement of 230 basis points in its direct expense ratio. This efficiency trend has continued, with the direct expense ratio remaining below the guided 12.3% in the first half of 2024.</p>
<p>MetLife also benefits from a strong liquidity position, with short-term debt of $390 million as of June 30, 2024, significantly overshadowed by its $20.8 billion in cash and cash equivalents. This financial strength underpins shareholder returns through repurchases and dividend payments. In April 2024, management approved a 4.8% dividend increase.</p>
<h2>Other Stocks to Consider</h2>
<p>Some other top-ranked stocks in the insurance space include <strong>CNO Financial Group, Inc.</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cno#NYSE">CNO</a>),<strong> MGIC Investment Corporation</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mtg#NYSE">MTG</a>) and <strong>Palomar Holdings, Inc. </strong>(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/plmr#NASDAQ">PLMR</a>), each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 at present.</p>
<p>The bottom line of CNO Financial outpaced estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and missed the mark once, the average surprise being 21.21%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CNO&#39;s 2024 earnings suggests 11% year-over-year growth. The consensus mark for CNO Financial&#39;s 2024 earnings has moved north by 3% in the past 30 days.</p>
<p>MGIC Investment&#39;s earnings outpaced estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 15.59%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for MTG&#39;s 2024 earnings indicates 9.1% year-over-year growth, while the same for revenues implies an improvement of 4.7%. MGIC Investment&#39;s consensus mark for 2024 earnings has moved north by 2.2% in the past 30 days.</p>
<p>The bottom line of Palomar outpaced estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 17.10%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PLMR&#39;s 2024 earnings suggests 30.9% year-over-year growth, while the same for revenues implies an improvement of 41.6%. The consensus mark for Palomar&#39;s 2024 earnings has moved north by 1.3% in the past 30 days.</p>
<p>Shares of CNO Financial, MGIC Investment and Palomar have gained 24.2%, 22.4% and 18.3%, respectively, in the past three months.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2336089/analyzing-metlife-stock-is-buy-strategy-the-right-move?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|rank_focused-2336089">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Mid Cap

Dividends

Management

PLMR

Analyzing MetLife Stock: Is Buy Strategy the Right Move?

<p>JP Morgan  analyst Anupam Rama   maintains Travere Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TVTX#NASDAQ">TVTX</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $20 to $23.</p>


TVTX

JP Morgan Maintains Overweight on Travere Therapeutics, Raises Price Target to $23

<p>JP Morgan  analyst Anupam Rama   maintains Apellis Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APLS#NASDAQ">APLS</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $64 to $57.</p>


APLS

JP Morgan Maintains Overweight on Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Lowers Price Target to $57

<p>High-rolling investors have positioned themselves bearish on S&amp;P Global (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPGI#NYSE">SPGI</a>), and it's important for retail traders to take note.<br />
\This activity came to our attention today through Benzinga's tracking of publicly available options data. The identities of these investors are uncertain, but such a significant move in SPGI often signals that someone has privileged information.</p>
<p>Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 8 options trades for S&amp;P Global. This is not a typical pattern.</p>
<p>The sentiment among these major traders is split, with 12% bullish and 87% bearish. Among all the options we identified, there was one put, amounting to $77,000, and 7 calls, totaling $208,800.</p>
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
<p>Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $490.0 to $580.0 for S&amp;P Global over the recent three months. </p>
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for S&amp;P Global options trades today is 136.0 with a total volume of 844.00.</p>
<p>In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for S&amp;P Global's big money trades within a strike price range of $490.0 to $580.0 over the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>S&amp;P Global Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726255467_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>SPGI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$79.0</td>
<td>$70.4</td>
<td>$77.0</td>
<td>$550.00</td>
<td>$77.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPGI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$33.1</td>
<td>$27.1</td>
<td>$30.9</td>
<td>$490.00</td>
<td>$37.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">322</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPGI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$10.0</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$580.00</td>
<td>$30.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">85</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">112</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPGI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$8.9</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$580.00</td>
<td>$29.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">85</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">296</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPGI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$10.0</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$580.00</td>
<td>$29.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">85</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">152</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About S&amp;P Global</h3>
<p>S&amp;P Global provides data and benchmarks to capital and commodity market participants. Its ratings business is the largest credit rating agency in the world and S&amp;P's largest segment by profitability. S&amp;P's largest segment by revenue is market intelligence, which provides desktop, data and advisory solutions, enterprise solutions, and credit/risk solutions mostly in the financial-services industry. S&amp;P's other segments include commodity insights (Platts and other data), mobility (Carfax), and indexes.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding S&amp;P Global, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>Where Is S&amp;P Global Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 556,875, the price of SPGI is down -0.16% at $519.16. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 48 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for S&amp;P Global</h3>
<p>A total of 2 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $587.0.</p>
<ul>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Morgan Stanley continues to hold a Overweight rating for S&amp;P Global, targeting a price of $564. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Barclays keeps a Overweight rating on S&amp;P Global with a target price of $610. </li>
</ul>
<p>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 S&amp;P Global options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


SPGI

S&P Global Unusual Options Activity

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on <strong>Altria Group</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MO#NYSE">MO</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with MO, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 10 options trades for <strong>Altria Group</strong>.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 40% bullish and 30%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $33,875, and 9, calls, for a total amount of $1,338,447.</p>
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $35.0 to $52.5 for Altria Group during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>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 Altria Group'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 Altria Group's whale trades within a strike price range from $35.0 to $52.5 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Altria Group Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726255462_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$10.35</td>
<td>$10.3</td>
<td>$10.35</td>
<td>$42.50</td>
<td>$310.5K</td>
<td>3.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">136</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$10.35</td>
<td>$10.3</td>
<td>$10.35</td>
<td>$42.50</td>
<td>$300.1K</td>
<td>6.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">407</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$5.4</td>
<td>$5.3</td>
<td>$5.4</td>
<td>$47.50</td>
<td>$270.0K</td>
<td>8.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">696</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$4.5</td>
<td>$4.35</td>
<td>$4.35</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$216.6K</td>
<td>4.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">541</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$10.4</td>
<td>$10.35</td>
<td>$10.35</td>
<td>$42.50</td>
<td>$87.9K</td>
<td>6.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">117</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Altria Group</h3>
<p>Altria comprises Philip Morris USA, us Smokeless Tobacco, John Middleton, Horizon Innovations, and Helix Innovations. Through its tobacco subsidiaries, Altria maintains the leading position in cigarettes and smokeless tobacco in the United States and the number-two spot in machine-made cigars. The company's Marlboro brand is the leading cigarette brand in the us with 42% annual share in 2023. Beyond its core business, it holds an 8% interest in the world's largest brewer, Anheuser-Busch InBev, a 42% stake in cannabis manufacturer Cronos, acquired Njoy Holdings in 2023, and operates a joint venture with Japan Tobacco in the heated tobacco category. It also recently disposed of its investment in Juul Labs.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Altria Group, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>Current Position of Altria Group</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 4,372,060, the price of MO is up 0.22% at $52.76. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 41 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Altria Group</h3>
<p>A total of 3 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $47.666666666666664.</p>
<ul>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from UBS keeps a Sell rating on Altria Group with a target price of $41. </li>
<li>An analyst from Barclays has decided to maintain their Underweight rating on Altria Group, which currently sits at a price target of $45. </li>
<li>An analyst from B of A Securities persists with their Neutral rating on Altria Group, maintaining a target price of $57. </li>
</ul>
<p>Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Altria Group, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in Altria Group

HLS Therapeutics appoints John Hanna as interim CFO

HLS Therapeutics GAAP EPS of -$0.17 misses by $0.04, revenue of $15.86M misses by $5.84M

HLS Therapeutics EPS of -$0.19 beats by $0.04, revenue of $12.5M misses by $7.73M

HLS Therapeutics GAAP EPS of -$0.18, revenue of $14.52M

HLTRF

Raymond James

Get Our Top Trade Ideas Delivered Daily - 65% Off Now

Get Our Top Trade Ideas Delivered Daily - 65% Off Now

Comments

HLS Therapeutics

HLS Therapeutics (HLTRF) Forecast

HLS Therapeutics (OTC:HLTRF) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas