Oxford Nanopore (OTC:ONTTF) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Oxford Nanopore Technologies PLC makes a novel generation of DNA/RNA sequencing technology that provides rich data and is fast, accessible, and easy to use. The company is predominantly involved in researching, developing, manufacturing, and commercializing a nanopore-based sequencing platform that allows the real-time analysis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or ribonucleic acid (RNA). This enables its customers to perform scientific/biomedical research in a range of areas, including human genetics, cancer research, outbreak surveillance, environmental analysis, pathogens/antimicrobial resistance, microbiome analysis, and crop science. The company's reportable segments are; Life Science Research Tools which generates key revenue, and COVID Testing.

OXFORD NANOPORE TECH PLC by Oxford Nanopore Technologies PLC

Oxford Nanopore Technologies PLC

<a href="https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-sues-tiktok-sharing-minors-personal-data-violation-texas-parental">https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-sues-tiktok-sharing-minors-personal-data-violation-texas-parental</a>
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued TikTok, one of the largest social media platforms, for operating its platform in a manner that puts the online safety and privacy of Texas children at risk and violates the Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment ("SCOPE") Act.
"I will continue to hold TikTok and other Big Tech companies accountable for exploiting Texas children and failing to prioritize minors' online safety and privacy," said Attorney General Ken Paxton. "Texas law requires social media companies to take steps to protect kids online and requires them to provide parents with tools to do the same. TikTok and other social media companies cannot ignore their duties under Texas law."
To protect Texas children from harms associated with social media, the SCOPE Act prohibits digital service providers, such as TikTok, from sharing, disclosing, or selling a minor's personal identifying information without permission from the child's parent or legal guardian. Further, the SCOPE Act requires companies to provide parents with tools to manage and control the privacy and account settings on their child's account. TikTok has failed to comply with these requirements.&nbsp;
Attorney General Paxton is seeking civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation and injunctive relief to prevent future violations of the SCOPE Act by TikTok.
To read the filing, <a href="https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/sites/default/files/images/press/TikTok%20Complaint%20As%20Filed.pdf">click here.</a>

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Reported Earlier, Attor­ney Gen­er­al Ken Pax­ton Sues Tik­Tok For Shar­ing Minors' Per­son­al Data In Vio­la­tion Of Texas Parental Con­sent Law

In the preceding three months, 13 analysts have released ratings for Lam Research (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LRCX#NASDAQ">LRCX</a>), presenting a wide array of perspectives from bullish to bearish.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Lam Research, presenting an average target of $1012.85, a high estimate of $1200.00, and a low estimate of $774.00. A negative shift in sentiment is evident as analysts have decreased the average price target by 6.44%. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727985673_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Lam Research by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Joseph Quatrochi</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$880.00</td>
<td>$1000.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>C J Muse</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$1000.00</td>
<td>$1200.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vijay Rakesh</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$950.00</td>
<td>$1050.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joseph Moore</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$774.00</td>
<td>$929.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Atif Malik</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$893.00</td>
<td>$990.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Timothy Arcuri</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$1150.00</td>
<td>$1250.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Atif Malik</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$990.00</td>
<td>$1025.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Krish Sankar</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$1050.00</td>
<td>$1000.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sidney Ho</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$950.00</td>
<td>$1100.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>C J Muse</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$1200.00</td>
<td>$1200.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joseph Quatrochi</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$1000.00</td>
<td>$1100.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charles Shi</td>
<td>Needham</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$1130.00</td>
<td>$1130.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>C J Muse</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$1200.00</td>
<td>$1100.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Lam Research. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Lam Research compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Lam Research's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Analyzing these analyst evaluations alongside relevant financial metrics can provide a comprehensive view of Lam Research's market position. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LRCX/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Lam Research analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Delving into Lam Research's Background</h2>
Lam Research is one of the largest semiconductor wafer fabrication equipment, or WFE, manufacturers in the world. It specializes in the market segments of deposition and etch, which entail the buildup of layers on a semiconductor and the subsequent selective removal of patterns from each layer. Lam holds the top market share in etch and holds the clear cut second share in deposition. It is more exposed to memory chipmakers for DRAM and NAND chips. It counts as top customers the largest chipmakers in the world, including TSMC, Samsung, Intel, and Micron.
<h3>Breaking Down Lam Research's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Positioned below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization faces constraints in size. This could be influenced by factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3 months period, Lam Research showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 20.71% as of 30 June, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the company achieved a growth rate higher than the average among peers in Information Technology sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 26.35%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Lam Research's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of 12.32%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.
Return on Assets (ROA): Lam Research's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 5.51% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: The company faces challenges in debt management with a debt-to-equity ratio higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 0.58, caution is advised due to increased financial risk.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

LRCX

Analyst Scoreboard: 13 Ratings For Lam Research

Across the recent three months, 6 analysts have shared their insights on ChargePoint Hldgs (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHPT#NYSE">CHPT</a>), expressing a variety of opinions spanning from bullish to bearish.
The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for ChargePoint Hldgs, presenting an average target of $2.46, a high estimate of $4.00, and a low estimate of $1.25. Observing a downward trend, the current average is 24.31% lower than the prior average price target of $3.25. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727985657_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Deciphering Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Analysis</h2>
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive ChargePoint Hldgs. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Mark Delaney</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Sell</td>
<td>$1.25</td>
<td>$1.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gabe Daoud</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$2.00</td>
<td>$3.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Legg</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$3.00</td>
<td>$3.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Dendrinos</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Sector Perform</td>
<td>$2.50</td>
<td>$3.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James West</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$4.00</td>
<td>$6.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Pierce</td>
<td>Needham</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$2.00</td>
<td>$3.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to ChargePoint Hldgs. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Delving into assessments, analysts assign qualitative values, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings communicate expectations for the relative performance of ChargePoint Hldgs compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of ChargePoint Hldgs's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of ChargePoint Hldgs's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CHPT/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on ChargePoint Hldgs analyst ratings.</a>
If you are interested in following small-cap stock news and performance <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/small-cap">you can start by tracking it here</a>.
<h2>Get to Know ChargePoint Hldgs Better</h2>
ChargePoint designs, develops, and markets networked electric vehicle charging system infrastructure and cloud-based services that enable consumers to locate, reserve, and authenticate EV charging. The company's hardware product lineup includes solutions across home, commercial, and fast-charging applications. ChargePoint derives the majority of its revenue from the United States.
<h3>ChargePoint Hldgs: Delving into Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Perspectives: The company's market capitalization falls below industry averages, signaling a relatively smaller size compared to peers. This positioning may be influenced by factors such as perceived growth potential or operational scale.
Revenue Challenges: ChargePoint Hldgs's revenue growth over 3 months faced difficulties. As of 31 July, 2024, the company experienced a decline of approximately -27.88%. This indicates a decrease in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Industrials sector.
Net Margin: ChargePoint Hldgs's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of -63.46%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): ChargePoint Hldgs's ROE lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maximizing returns on equity capital. With an ROE of -27.07%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): ChargePoint Hldgs's ROA is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of -6.7%, the company may encounter challenges in delivering satisfactory returns from its assets.
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 1.31, ChargePoint Hldgs adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
Some analysts will also offer forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide further guidance on stocks. Investors who use analyst ratings should note that this specialized advice comes from humans and may be subject to error.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

CHPT

Critical Insights From ChargePoint Hldgs Analyst Ratings: What You Need To Know

Throughout the last three months, 10 analysts have evaluated Wolfspeed (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WOLF#NYSE">WOLF</a>), offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The table below offers a condensed view of their recent ratings, showcasing the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $16.3, a high estimate of $25.00, and a low estimate of $8.00. A decline of 38.35% from the prior average price target is evident in the current average. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727985632_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Understanding Analyst Ratings: A Comprehensive Breakdown</h2>
The standing of Wolfspeed among financial experts is revealed through an in-depth exploration of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Vijay Rakesh</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$8.00</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>George Gianarikas</td>
<td>Canaccord Genuity</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vivek Arya</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robert Sanders</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$14.00</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Ramsay</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Rolland</td>
<td>Susquehanna</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$16.00</td>
<td>$23.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Harsh Kumar</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vijay Rakesh</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joseph Moore</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$23.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pierre Ferragu</td>
<td>New Street Research</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to Wolfspeed. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Offering insights into predictions, analysts assign qualitative values, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Wolfspeed compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Wolfspeed's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Wolfspeed's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WOLF/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Wolfspeed analyst ratings.</a>
If you are interested in following small-cap stock news and performance <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/small-cap">you can start by tracking it here</a>.
<h2>All You Need to Know About Wolfspeed</h2>
Wolfspeed Inc is involved in the manufacturing of wide bandgap semiconductors. It is focused on silicon carbide and gallium nitride materials and devices for power and radio-frequency (RF) applications. The company serves applications such as transportation, power supplies, inverters, and wireless systems. Geographically, it derives a majority of its revenue from Europe and the rest from the United States, China, Hong Kong, Asia Pacific, and other regions.
<h3>Wolfspeed: Delving into Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization: Indicating a reduced size compared to industry averages, the company's market capitalization poses unique challenges.
Revenue Growth: Wolfspeed's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has faced challenges. As of 30 June, 2024, the company experienced a revenue decline of approximately -0.99%. This indicates a decrease in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Information Technology sector.
Net Margin: Wolfspeed's net margin is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in achieving strong profitability. With a net margin of -87.14%, the company may encounter challenges in effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Wolfspeed's ROE is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing equity capital. With an ROE of -18.37%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Return on Assets (ROA): Wolfspeed's ROA is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of -2.23%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Debt Management: Wolfspeed's debt-to-equity ratio stands notably higher than the industry average, reaching 7.0. This indicates a heavier reliance on borrowed funds, raising concerns about financial leverage.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
In addition to their assessments, some analysts extend their insights by offering predictions for key metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates. This supplementary information provides further guidance for traders. It is crucial to recognize that, despite their specialization, analysts are human and can only provide forecasts based on their beliefs.
Breaking: Wall Street's Next Big Mover
Benzinga's #1 analyst just identified a stock poised for explosive growth. This under-the-radar company could surge 200%+ as major market shifts unfold. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/turning-point-trader-checkout-2/?t=Tu1tu3arja3be22tu36&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for urgent details</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

WOLF

Analyst Scoreboard: 10 Ratings For Wolfspeed

Across the recent three months, 8 analysts have shared their insights on Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), expressing a variety of opinions spanning from bullish to bearish.
The following table summarizes their recent ratings, shedding light on the changing sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $144.12, a high estimate of $155.00, and a low estimate of $125.00. Observing a downward trend, the current average is 2.29% lower than the prior average price target of $147.50. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727985619_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Deciphering Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Analysis</h2>
The perception of Merck &amp; Co by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carter Gould</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$142.00</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Geoff Meacham</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mohit Bansal</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colin Bristow</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$142.00</td>
<td>$148.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Terence Flynn</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$134.00</td>
<td>$132.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Merck &amp; Co. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Merck &amp; Co compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts set price targets as an estimate of a stock's future value. Comparing the current and prior price targets provides insight into how analysts' expectations have changed over time. This information can be valuable for investors seeking to understand consensus views on the stock's potential future performance.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Merck &amp; Co's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Merck &amp; Co analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Merck &amp; Co</h2>
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.
<h3>Financial Milestones: Merck &amp; Co's Journey</h3>
Market Capitalization: Boasting an elevated market capitalization, the company surpasses industry averages. This signals substantial size and strong market recognition.
Revenue Growth: Merck &amp; Co's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 30 June, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 7.16%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the revenue growth lags behind its industry peers. The company achieved a growth rate lower than the average among peers in Health Care sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 33.86%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Merck &amp; Co's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of 13.0%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.
Return on Assets (ROA): Merck &amp; Co's ROA excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 4.99%. This signifies efficient management of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Merck &amp; Co's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.87, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: What Are They?</h2>
Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.
Breaking: Wall Street's Next Big Mover
Benzinga's #1 analyst just identified a stock poised for explosive growth. This under-the-radar company could surge 200%+ as major market shifts unfold. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/turning-point-trader-checkout-2/?t=Tu1tu3arja3be22tu36&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for urgent details</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Demystifying Merck & Co: Insights From 8 Analyst Reviews

Political tensions and potential war in the Middle East have made the price of oil rip higher. This means there are opportunities to profit by investing or trading in the companies <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41172781/oil-prices-rally-biden-confirms-us-discussions-with-israel-about-striking-iran-facilities">in the energy sector</a>.
As you can see on the chart, shares of Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) may be about to break out. This means they may be about to move above what has been a resistance level and trend higher. This is why we have made it our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/stock-of-the-day">Stock of the Day</a>.
Traders use the term ‘breakout' frequently. It refers to an important market dynamic that savvy traders can use to profit.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="630" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03155456/1-1-2-1024x630.png" alt="Tensions in the Middle East have created trading opportunities in the energy stocks. Shares on Exxon may be about to breakout." class="wp-image-579480" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03155456/1-1-2-1024x630.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03155456/1-1-2-300x185.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03155456/1-1-2-768x472.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03155456/1-1-2.png 1185w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41159016/port-strike-enters-day-3-economist-warns-of-meaningful-impact-if-standoff-prolongs-food-beverages-li">Port Strike Enters Day 3: Economist Warns Of &#8216;Meaningful&#8217; Impact If Standoff Prolongs, Food &amp; Beverages Likely First To Feel The Pinch</a>
The stock market moves when it is out of equilibrium.
If there isn't enough supply, or sell orders, to fill all of the demand, or buy orders, the market will trend higher. This happens because the traders and investors who want to buy will be forced to increase the price that they are willing to pay to draw the sellers into the market.
When a stock reaches a resistance level, the tide turns. Resistance is a large group or concentration of sellers. At resistance levels, buyers can obtain all the shares they need without pushing the price up. Because of this, rallies can end or stall out at resistance levels.
If a stock eventually trades and holds above what had been a resistance level, it is called a ‘breakout'.
This illustrates an important market principle. It could be an indication that the traders and investors who created the resistance with their sell orders are gone. They have either finished or canceled their orders.
It can result in the market being out of equilibrium once again. So, to get sellers interested, the people who wish to buy must be willing to bid or pay higher prices. It can force the market into a new uptrend.
The best traders let the market tell them what to do. If a breakout occurs, which may be about to happen with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/XOM">Exxon</a>, the market is saying an upward move in the price is going to take place.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41172749/ge-and-howmet-poised-for-strong-earnings-as-aerospace-sector-stays-resilient-analys">GE and Howmet Poised for Strong Earnings as Aerospace Sector Stays Resilient: Analyst</a></li>
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Image: Shutterstock

Technicals

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Stock Of The Day: Is Exxon A Way To Profit From Higher Oil Prices?

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ISRA

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SBA Communications&#39; (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sbac#NASDAQ">SBAC</a>) extensive and geographically diverse wireless communication infrastructure portfolio is well-positioned to gain from the wireless carriers&#39; high capital spending for network expansion amid growth in mobile data usage and accelerated 5G network deployment efforts.
The long-term leases with its tenants assure stable revenues. Also, portfolio expansion moves, domestically and internationally, to capitalize on the secular trends of the industry are encouraging.
However, customer concentration and consolidation in the wireless industry are key near-term concerns. The churn arising from the Sprint-related decommissioning is likely to hurt top-line growth.
Shares of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company have risen 25.9% over the past three months, outperforming the industry&#39;s upside of 16.5%.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/25/80252.jpg?v=2118588955" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>What&#39;s Aiding SBAC?</h2>
The advancement in mobile technology, such as 4G and 5G networks, and the proliferation of bandwidth-intensive applications have propelled growth in mobile data usage globally. This has resulted in wireless service providers and carriers expanding their networks and deploying additional equipment for existing networks to boost network coverage and capacity to meet the rising consumer demand, poising tower real estate investment trusts like SBAC well for growth.
SBA Communications has a resilient and stable site-leasing business model. The company generates most of its revenues from long-term (typically five to 10 years) tower leases that have built-in rent escalators. With high operating margins, its tower-leasing business remains attractive.
As the company continues to expand its tower portfolio and seek new growth opportunities, it focuses on business expansion into domestic and select international markets with high growth characteristics. During the first half of 2024, SBAC acquired 128 towers and related assets. In the second quarter of 2024, it also built 100 towers. Subsequent to June 30, 2024, the company purchased or is under contract to purchase 106 communication sites for a total cash consideration of $49.3 million. Such portfolio expansion efforts will position SBA Communications to leverage secular trends in mobile data usage and wireless spending growth across the globe.
Solid dividend payouts are arguably the biggest enticement for investment in REIT stocks. SBAC has increased its dividend five times in the last five years, and its five-year annualized dividend growth rate is 22.42%. Given SBA Communications&#39; decent financial position and lower-than-industry dividend payout rate, the dividend distribution is expected to be sustainable over the long run.
<h2>What&#39;s Hurting SBAC?</h2>
The company has a high customer concentration, with T-Mobile (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tmus#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>), AT&amp;T (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/t#NYSE">T</a>) and Verizon (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vz#NYSE">VZ</a>) accounting for the majority of its domestic site-leasing revenues. In the second quarter of 2024, T-Mobile, AT&amp;T and Verizon accounted for 38.2%, 29.7% and 20.2%, respectively, of SBAC&#39;s domestic site-leasing revenues.
The loss of any of these customers, consolidation among them or a reduction in network spending might hurt the company&#39;s top line significantly. The churn arising from the Sprint-related decommissioning is likely to weigh on its performance in the near term.
SBA Communications has a substantially leveraged balance sheet, with $12.4 billion of total debt and net debt to the annualized adjusted EBITDA leverage of 6.4X as of the end of the second quarter of 2024. The high amount of debt is likely to keep SBA Communications&#39; financial obligations elevated. Moreover, its debt-to-capital ratio is higher than the industry average. A high debt-to-capital ratio limits its strength to withstand any credit crisis and unexpected negative externalities in the future.
Note: Anything related to earnings presented in this write-up represents funds from operations (FFO), a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2345624/is-it-wise-to-retain-sba-communications-stock-in-your-portfolio-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|zer_report_update-2345624">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

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Is it Wise to Retain SBA Communications Stock in Your Portfolio Now?

Supermassive Games&#8217; Until Dawn remake will be released on Friday for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">both PS5 and PC.</a>
Originally released in 2015, this horror hit has been reimagined for modern platforms, boasting enhanced graphics and gameplay improvements.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41152217/grand-theft-auto-6-leak-sparks-fan-frenzy-on-x-but-elon-musk-wont-be-joining-the-hype">Grand Theft Auto 6 Leak Sparks Fan Frenzy On X, But Elon Musk Won&#8217;t Be Joining The Hype</a>
However, some players have gotten an early look at the game, and their discoveries have sparked discussions online—most notably, the reveal of a brand-new ending that hints at a possible sequel.
While no official announcement of an Until Dawn sequel has been made, the upcoming film adaptation of the game, which was announced earlier this year, further supports the possibility of a follow-up.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">[WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD] </h3>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New Ending Surfaces Ahead Of Official Release</h3>
With the remake&#8217;s launch imminent, spoilers have already made their way online. Reddit user &#8220;crawlplays&#8221; <a href="https://www.eurogamer.net/until-dawn-remake-leak-points-to-potential-sequel">(via </a>Eurogamer) uploaded footage showcasing the new ending, which features two post-credit scenes that significantly alter the fate of some characters from the original story.
The first post-credit scene focuses on Josh, portrayed by Academy Award winner Rami Malek. In the original Until Dawn, Josh's fate was ambiguous. Players could see him perish or transform into a Wendigo, one of the game's vicious creatures.
But, in the remake's ending, Josh's story takes a different turn. Instead of succumbing to the Wendigo curse, Josh is shown to have survived, though visibly traumatized. A voiceover by Dr. Hill, a character from the game played by Peter Stormare, suggests that Josh might find redemption, potentially setting the stage for his return in a future installment.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Haunting Fate For Sam</h3>
The second post-credit scene shifts the focus to Sam, played by Heroes star Hayden Panettiere. Set years after the horrific events of Until Dawn, Sam is shown in Los Angeles, visibly struggling with the aftermath of her experience. 
A glimpse of her bedside reveals several pill bottles, implying she is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, there is a book titled &#8220;Creature Myths of the Great Plains,&#8221; a subtle nod to the game's supernatural elements.
In a tense moment, Sam's alarm goes off at 6 AM, but as she reaches to silence it, blood starts to trickle down her arm from a mysterious wound. 
Despite her attempts, she cannot stop the bleeding. An eerie voice suddenly calls her name to heighten the tension, causing her to jump. The scene blurs the lines between reality and hallucination, leaving players wondering about Sam&#8217;s mental state and what it could mean for future stories.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41129439/leaked-ea-project-rene-images-reveal-controversial-changes-why-the-sims-fans-are-furious">Leaked EA Project Rene Images Reveal Controversial Changes: Why The Sims Fans Are Furious</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

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Since hitting a record back in July and then selling off, shares of tech titan Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/msft#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) have been a bit slower than others in getting back to highs. For context, the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index was hitting fresh highs by the middle of September and, as recently as Monday, was closing at a new record.&nbsp;
Confirmation from the Fed that they&#39;re going to start cutting rates and continuing signs that inflation is cooling have combined to re-ignite the risk-on sentiment that controlled stocks for much of the first six months of the year. Against the S&amp;P 500&#39;s 12% gain from its August lows, Microsoft has tacked on as much as 14%, but a week of losses means it&#39;s holding on to less than 10% of them right now.&nbsp;
However, despite what appears to be this lackluster performance, there are several reasons to think that Microsoft is a solid buy right now&nbsp;and that any further selling will only boost&nbsp;its risk/reward&nbsp;profile. Let&#39;s jump in and take a look.&nbsp;
<h2>Microsoft&#39;s Fundamental Performance</h2>
To start with, let&#39;s look at Microsoft&#39;s fundamental performance. It&#39;s worth pointing out that Microsoft&#39;s most recent earnings report had a lot to do not only with its stock&#39;s selloff in August but also with the bullish outlook investors and analysts have for it. The company smashed analyst expectations on both its headline numbers, which was always a good sign but then provided lighter-than-expected forward guidance for revenue from its Azure cloud unit.&nbsp;
Considering how softly Microsoft shares had been trading throughout July, it was understandable that a weak outlook like this sent them even lower. But what really compounded matters was the fact that the broader market started sinking the following week, as a dodgy jobs report ignited concerns that the Fed had delayed cutting rates too long.&nbsp;
<h2>Wall Street Targets Suggest Major Upside for Microsoft Stock</h2>
However, for those of us on the sidelines thinking about getting involved, there&#39;s actually a lot to like here. Despite issuing weak forward guidance for a key part of the business and then enduring one of the wider stock market&#39;s worst weeks in years, shares of Microsoft have been gaining since the first week of August. Not only have they been gaining, but they&#39;ve been setting a pattern of higher, lower, and higher highs. This is one of the most bullish setups out there and indicates that there is a constant source of demand for Microsoft shares during any dip.
Considering the stock has fallen about 5% in the past two weeks alone, we could soon see this source of demand being tapped again. Beyond the promising technical performance, Microsoft shares are also enjoying the benefit of being highly rated by Wall Street analysts.&nbsp;
Take DA Davidson, for example,&nbsp;which reiterated&nbsp;its $475 price target on Microsoft shares in the last week of September. From where the stock closed on Tuesday evening, that suggests&nbsp;a targeted upside of nearly 15%. There&#39;s also the $506 price target from Morgan Stanley last month and the $550 target from Wedbush in the aftermath of Microsoft&#39;s earnings. It&#39;s not often that analysts call for a potential upside of 30%, but that&#39;s the case with Microsoft.&nbsp;
<h2>The Bottom Line: Microsoft&#39;s Dip Could Be a Strong Buying Opportunity</h2>
Some concerns are worth noting, such as those of Allspring Global Investments, which noted earlier this week, &quot;There&#39;s some AI fatigue when it comes to companies like Microsoft, given the incredible run they&#39;ve had.&quot; There have also been some unfavorable comparisons between Microsoft and Oracle Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/orcl#NYSE">ORCL</a>) in this regard, given the fact that the latter is trading at a lower valuation.&nbsp;
However, aside from the weaker-than-expected Azure update, which has surely been properly baked into Microsoft&#39;s shares by now, there are far more reasons to like the stock than to avoid it. The technical case is strong, while the analysts&#39; targeted upside speaks for itself. Let&#39;s see if the current dip can start finding some buyers in the next few sessions and turning north once again.
The article &quot;<a href="https://www.marketbeat.com/originals/microsofts-targeted-upside-might-be-too-good-to-ignore/">Microsoft&#39;s Targeted Upside Might Be Too Good to Ignore</a>&quot; first appeared on MarketBeat.

Guidance

Price Target

Federal Reserve

Tech

MSFT

ORCL

Microsoft's Targeted Upside Might Be Too Good to Ignore

Palestinian Red Crescent Says Five People Killed In Israeli Strike On Tulkarm In West Bank

By <a href="https://elplanteo.com/charlamos-con-el-presidente-de-argencann-la-camara-argentina-de-cannabis/">Pablo Fazio</a>
The process of regulating <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis">cannabis</a> has been complex and varied, with advances and setbacks occurring in different regions around the world. While much of the global attention is focused on the United States, where the rescheduling of cannabis dominates headlines, the situation in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/latin-america">Latin America</a>&mdash;a region that has been actively involved in this debate&mdash;has not been much different. The political swings faced by various countries have been reflected in the pendulum-like nature of their public policies on cannabis.
Brazil has recently emerged from a highly conservative government that was focused on restricting any form of regulation that might broaden cannabis use, leaving a legacy that still weighs heavily on the development of its market. The country still does not allow cultivation for commercial purposes domestically, sparking debates around dependency on imports and the rising cost of medicinal products. With the return of Lula da Silva, the center-left government is showing signs of loosening regulations, potentially positioning Brazil as an industrial powerhouse in the global cannabis market. In 2023, the Brazilian medicinal cannabis market generated approximately R$ 700 million (around USD 140 million), representing a 92% growth compared to the previous year. It is estimated that over 430,000 people use cannabidiol (CBD) to treat various medical conditions. The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) has authorized the sale of 26 medicinal cannabis products, including oils and extracts, which can only be prescribed by physicians and purchased in authorized pharmacies.
In contrast, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40926566/argentinas-cannabis-industry-shakeup-will-the-new-government-appointed-comptroller-boost-busines">Argentina</a>, which in recent years had experienced significant progress in cannabis regulation, has paused this process since Milei took office. Everything now seems frozen, contradicting the new president&rsquo;s promises to deregulate the economy &ldquo;to unleash the country&rsquo;s productive forces.&rdquo; Changes in the <a href="https://elplanteo.com/reprocann/">REPROCANN</a> program (Resolution 3132/2024, which introduced modifications in control and oversight mechanisms for the medicinal use of cannabis) and the recent intervention of <a href="https://elplanteo.com/intervencion-ariccame-cannabis-argentina/">ARICCAME</a> (Decree 833/2024) have created an environment of uncertainty. Despite this context, some industry players, such as <a href="https://elplanteo.com/cannava-cannabis-empresa-jujuy/">Cannava</a> (the government-owned company in Jujuy), have started exporting pharmaceutical-grade flowers to countries like Portugal, Germany and Australia. Therapeutic products are also being dispensed in their pharmacies (Pampa Hemp Dispensary) in the form of full-spectrum magistral preparations. Despite these advancements, the overall situation of the sector is marked by great uncertainty, triggering a decline in investment confidence, and many companies are struggling to sustain their operations.
Colombia and Uruguay, considered pioneers in cannabis regulation in the region, show figures that expose the harsh reality of the failure of the models implemented due to a lack of political will and boldness to fully develop this sector within their economies, limiting business opportunities for the industry. Although a small number of companies have managed to find profitable niches, especially in the export of medicinal cannabis and derivative products (amounting to around USD 40 million in total), the sector, in general, has been condemned to excessive bureaucracy, commercial unviability, and financial difficulties, leading some companies to shut down operations. The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40970562/nasdaq-listed-aurora-cannabis-breaks-up-with-uruguay-its-not-you-its-the-market">loud exit</a> of Aurora Cannabis (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/acb#NASDAQ">ACB</a>), the Canadian giant, from the Uruguayan market is a clear sign of this situation.
Mexico, another of the region&rsquo;s great promises, awaits the long-overdue reform to regulate recreational and medicinal cannabis use under Claudia Sheinbaum&rsquo;s administration. Although the country&rsquo;s Supreme Court declared in 2018 that five articles of the General Health Law prohibiting recreational cannabis use were unconstitutional, arguing that they violated the right to free personal development, the issue has not successfully passed through Congress. According to a 2021 report by Endeavor Mexico, the value of the cannabis industry was projected to reach USD 2 billion by 2028, driven by both the medicinal market and responsible adult use.
In Chile and Peru, where medicinal cannabis use is legalized, the implementation has been extremely slow, with numerous restrictions and difficulties in distribution and patient access. A large part of the market still relies on imported products, which has hindered the growth of a strong local industry. Meanwhile, the illegal market continues to flourish with little control, while formally established companies face increasingly stringent regulations.
Paraguay and Ecuador, although their legal frameworks allow for the cultivation and importation of cannabis derivatives for medical purposes, are still in the early stages of developing local medicinal product production. Nonetheless, both countries have made significant strides in hemp cultivation and processing. Companies like Healthy Grains in Paraguay and Barad in Ecuador have pioneered this sector, managing to export over 1,000 tons of biomass and hemp-derived products to more than 30 international markets. The main export destinations include Canada, the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Greece, Lithuania, Germany, the Czech Republic, and Australia.
The status of cannabis in Bolivia remains strictly prohibitive for both recreational and medicinal use. The government of Evo Morales, a former coca-grower union leader, has focused its policies on defending the coca leaf. The main argument of his administration is that the coca leaf has deep-rooted ancestral significance, with legitimate medicinal and cultural uses, while cannabis, on the other hand, is not part of that tradition, and its legalization could exacerbate drug trafficking issues and harm Bolivia&rsquo;s international image in the fight against drugs.
Regardless of the particularities in each country, the cannabis industry in Latin America faces structural challenges that hinder its growth and complicate the integration of a regional market. These common challenges across the region limit the industry&rsquo;s capacity to achieve its potential in terms of economic and social development.
Among the main obstacles are delays in the implementation of regulations that, in many cases, remain entangled in prolonged bureaucratic processes. Likewise, there is a lack of institutional training that complicates the effective application of regulations, with insufficient oversight facilitating the proliferation of the black market and the uncontrolled supply of products reaching the public without any health monitoring. This situation not only generates unfair competition but also affects public health, exacerbates safety risks, and undermines confidence in the legal industry. The lack of medical knowledge about therapeutic cannabis and the limited educational offerings in academic institutions further complicate access to safe and quality treatments. Currently, the prescription of medicinal cannabis remains a practice limited to a minority of specialists. This shortage of trained physicians highlights the urgent need to train more professionals, which could significantly expand its adoption as a therapeutic alternative.
Finally, it is essential to critically examine the role of civil society and its difficulties in articulating a common agenda around cannabis regulation. This process has been driven by a diverse set of actors&mdash;including patients, health organizations, private companies, NGOs, and groups advocating for drug decriminalization&mdash;who, in many cases, do not share unified interests or visions. Their heterogeneity, while reflecting a richness of perspectives, has also generated contradictions that complicate clear and coherent dialogue with policymakers. This fragmentation has allowed certain sectors to blur the lines between recreational and medicinal cannabis use, using ambiguous interpretations of the regulations to push scenarios.
From an institutional perspective, this approach not only erodes the legitimacy of the milestones achieved but also endangers the political capital needed for these initiatives to progress within the framework of democratic debate. By failing to consolidate a foundation of agreements and a commitment to respect collective efforts, demands become muddled, which not only generates distrust among the public but also undermines progress in critical areas such as access to medical treatments. In this complex governance context, the excesses allowed by some groups and the aforementioned lack of cohesion have been capitalized on by reactionary sectors, who find in them a justification for opposing more forcefully and promoting more restrictive policies.
In conclusion, the cannabis industry in Latin America is far from reaching its full potential. The combination of a confusing regulatory environment, lack of training at all levels, and poor coordination among key stakeholders remains a significant barrier to its development. Without a more comprehensive approach and the building of political majorities that understand the potential and express the will to move forward, the region risks falling behind in the emerging global cannabis market.
*Pablo Fazio is the President of the Argentine Chamber of Cannabis (ARGENCANN) and Director of PAMPA HEMP.
This article is from an external unpaid contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Cannabis

Government

Latin America

Regulations

Cannabis Regulation In Latin America: Towards An Integrated Market Or Stagnation?

Colin Cowherd, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sports">sports </a>commentator known for his elaborate analogies, dropped a new one on his listeners earlier this week: the Detroit Lions are like your relative that won't <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto">stop talking about cryptocurrency</a>. 
Here's how Cowherd arrived at this take.
Cowherd, on his show The Herd, explained that Lions head coach Dan Campbell has turned the team around by being a "rah-rah" guy. Now it's time for him to transition into being a "situationally elite guy.&#8221; 
Now that the Lions are winning, Campbell may need to adjust his coaching style, Cowheard added. 
"You're like the family member that finally got their act together," Cowherd said. "Everybody's happy for him, but you still wouldn't trust him taking your kids to Disneyland. That&#8217;s what the Lions have become. Hey, congratulations, you're not vaping anymore. But I would appreciate it if everytime you come over you don't go into a 30-minute lecture on crypto."
See below.
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Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41129610/nike-q1-earnings-revenue-miss-eps-beat-teams-energized-amid-ceo-transition-a-comeback-at-this-scale">Nike Q1 Earnings: Revenue Miss, EPS Beat, Teams &#8216;Energized&#8217; Amid CEO Transition — &#8216;A Comeback At This Scale Takes Time, But We See Early Wins</a>
When Campbell took over as head coach of the Lions in 2021, he quickly became one of the most aggressive coaches in the league. When the Lions started 0-10-1 in Campbell's first season, he didn't have much to lose. Fake punts and going for it on fourth down became the norm in Detroit. But, since the team's turnaround, the Lions find themselves in unfamiliar territory. They&#8217;re the favorites in nearly every one of their games. "Detroit's in this transition stage like Dan Campbell created a tough culture and deserves respect," Cowherd said. "But he has to transition from rah-rah guy to situationally elite guy like an [Kansas City Chiefs&#8217;] Andy Reid."
Campbell's aggressive play calls were in focus last season when the Lions lost in the NFC Championship game against the San Francisco 49ers. At the end of the first half, Campbell elected to kick a field goal from San Fran's 3-yard line to go up 24-7. The conservative call to take the points seemed rare for Campbell. But, in the second half, Campbell went for it twice on fourth down, failing to convert each time. The Lions ultimately fell to the 49ers by 3 points. 
Cowherd finished the clip saying that he's rooting for the Lions, but doesn't trust them.
Cowherd left Walt Disney Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) ESPN in 2015 to join Fox Corp&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOXA#NYSE">FOXA</a>) Fox Sports.
Keep Reading: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41123711/netflix-stock-could-get-boost-from-nfl-games-squid-game-season-2-analyst-says-conte">Netflix Stock Could Get Boost From NFL Games, &#8216;Squid Game&#8217; Season 2: Analyst Says &#8216;Content Catalysts&#8217; Begin In Q4</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Sports

FOXA

Detroit Lions Are Like Your Relative That Won't Stop Talking About Crypto: Colin Cowherd

<a href="https://www.who.int/news/item/03-10-2024-who-approves-first-mpox-diagnostic-test-for-emergency-use--boosting-global-access">https://www.who.int/news/item/03-10-2024-who-approves-first-mpox-diagnostic-test-for-emergency-use--boosting-global-access</a>
The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed the first mpox in vitro diagnostic (IVD) under its Emergency Use Listing (EUL) procedure, an important step in improving global access to mpox testing. The approval for emergency use of <a href="https://extranet.who.int/prequal/sites/default/files/document_files/eul-mpxv_list-of-mpxv-ivds.pdf">the Alinity m MPXV assay, manufactured by Abbott Molecular Inc.</a>, will be pivotal in expanding diagnostic capacity in countries facing mpox outbreaks, where the need for quick and accurate testing has risen sharply. Early diagnosis of mpox enables timely treatment and care, and control of the virus.
Limited testing capacity and delays in confirming mpox cases persist in Africa, contributing to the continued spread of the virus. In 2024, over 30 000 suspected cases have been reported across the region, with the highest numbers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, and Nigeria. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, only 37% of suspected cases have been tested this year.
The presence of the monkeypox virus is confirmed by nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), such as real-time or conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR), as stated in the <a href="https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/376952/WHO-MPX-Laboratory-2024.1-eng.pdf?sequence=1">WHO Interim Guidance on Diagnostic testing for the monkeypox virus (MPXV)</a>. And the recommended specimen type for diagnostic confirmation of monkeypox virus (MPXV) infection in suspected cases is lesion material.
The Alinity m MPXV assay is a real-time PCR test that enables detection of monkeypox virus (clade I/II) DNA from human skin lesion swabs. It is specifically designed for use by trained clinical laboratory personnel who are proficient in PCR techniques and IVD procedures. By detecting DNA from pustular or vesicular rash samples, laboratory and health workers can confirm suspected mpox cases efficiently and effectively.
"This first mpox diagnostic test listed under the Emergency Use Listing procedure represents a significant milestone in expanding testing availability in affected countries," said Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products. "Increasing access to quality-assured medical products is central to our efforts in assisting countries to contain the spread of the virus and protect their people, especially in underserved regions."
The EUL process accelerates the availability of life-saving medical products, such as vaccines, tests and treatments, in the context of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). On 28 August 2024, WHO called on mpox IVDs manufacturers <a href="https://extranet.who.int/prequal/news/invitation-manufacturers-vitro-diagnostics-monkeypox-virus-nucleic-acid-detection-submit">to submit an expression of interest for EUL</a>, recognizing the urgent need to bolster global testing capacities as the virus continued to spread. The EUL process assesses the quality, safety, and performance of essential health products, such as diagnostic tests, to guide procurement agencies and WHO Member States in making informed decisions for time-limited emergency procurement.
So far, WHO has received three additional submissions for EUL evaluation, and discussions are ongoing with other manufacturers of mpox IVDs to ensure a wider range of quality-assured diagnostic options. This will support countries which have not approved the medical products through their own approval processes to procure the critically needed tests through UN agencies and other procurement partners.
The EUL for Alinity m MPXV assay, allowing for its use, will remain valid as long as the PHEIC, justifying the emergency use of mpox in vitro diagnostics, is in effect.
Information on active EUL applications for mpox IVDs can be found on these&nbsp;<a href="https://extranet.who.int/prequal/sites/default/files/document_files/eul-mpxv_status-of-ongoing-applications-1.pdf">WHO webpages</a>.

Biotech

WHO Approves First Mpox Diagnostic Test For Emergency Use, Boosting Global Access;  The Approval For Emergency Use Of The Alinity M MPXV Assay, Manufactured By Abbott Molecular Inc. - WHO

TransUnion&nbsp;(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tru#NYSE">TRU</a>) stock has rallied 51.3%, outperforming the 31% and 33.8% growth of the&nbsp;industry&nbsp;it belongs to and the Zacks S&amp;P 500 composite in the past year, respectively.
TRU has an expected long-term (three to five years) EPS growth rate of 21.8%. The company&#39;s earnings for 2024 and 2025 are anticipated to grow 15.1% and 18% year over year, respectively. Revenues are expected to increase 8% in 2024 and 7.5% in 2025.
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<h3>TransUnion Price and EPS Surprise</h3>
<img alt="TransUnion Price and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/35/1727960615.png" style="height:266px; width:543px" title="" />
TransUnion price-eps-surprise | TransUnion Quote
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<h2>Factors That Auger Well for TRU</h2>
TransUnion&#39;s proactive efforts to render robust personalized financial products and services are commendable. The partnership with MoneyLion enhances consumer finance by integrating TransUnion&#39;s extensive data with MoneyLion&#39;s innovative platform. This collaboration will not only provide tailored financial offers to consumers but also empower financial institutions to make informed decisions and improve customer engagement. Such initiatives highlight TRU&#39;s strategic alignment around a new global technology platform and solutions.
By consolidating independent products into integrated suites on a next-generation foundation, TransUnion is poised to accelerate innovation while reducing costs. This approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also allows for the leveraging of solutions across regions, driving revenue growth. It&#39;s a smart move that positions the company well for future success in a competitive landscape.
TransUnion&#39;s commitment to rewarding shareholders through dividends is commendable. The company has demonstrated a strong track record, paying $81.8 million in dividends in 2023, up from $77.8 million in 2022, and $61.8 million in 2021. In the second quarter of 2024, TransUnion declared a cash dividend of 10.5 cents per share. These consistent dividend initiatives significantly boost investor confidence and reflect the company&#39;s dedication to returning value to its shareholders.
TransUnion&#39;s current ratio (a measure of liquidity) at the end of the second quarter of 2024 was 1.66, higher than the preceding quarter&#39;s 1.65 and the year-ago quarter&#39;s 1.51. A current ratio of more than 1 often insinuates a company&#39;s ability to pay off short-term debts with ease.
<h2>TRU: Key Risks to Watch</h2>
The increase in operating expenses poses a potential challenge for TransUnion&#39;s bottom line. In the second quarter of 2024, total operating expenses rose by 6% year over year. This trend of rising costs has been consistent, with operating expenses increasing by 14% in 2021, 34% in 2022 and 20% in 2023. Such sustained increases in expenses could impact the company&#39;s profitability moving forward.
Moreover, TRU faces intense competition in a diverse market, with rivals varying across different business segments, geographical areas and industry verticals. This high level of competition limits its pricing power and puts pressure on its earnings.
<h2>TRU&#39;s Zacks Rank and Stocks to Consider</h2>
TRU currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
A couple of better-ranked stocks from the broader Zacks&nbsp;Business Services&nbsp;sector are&nbsp;SPX Technologies, Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/spxc#NYSE">SPXC</a>) and&nbsp;Docusign&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/docu#NASDAQ">DOCU</a>).
SPX Technologies currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy). It has a long-term earnings growth expectation of 18%.
SPXC delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 10.6%, on average.
Docusign currently sports a Zacks Rank of 1. It has a long-term earnings growth expectation of 9.3%.
DOCU delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 18.3%, on average.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2345526/here-s-why-investors-should-retain-transunion-stock-for-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|rank_focused-2345526">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Mid Cap

DOCU

SPXC

Here's Why Investors Should Retain TransUnion Stock for Now

JMP Securities initiated coverage on Enovis Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENOV#NYSE">ENOV</a>), a medical technology company focusing on orthopedics.
The analyst adds that the company sells a broad portfolio of products, many of which were added via selective acquisitions (around 20 over the last 4.5 years). The analyst views M&amp;A as a core competency.
The company&#8217;s product offerings span large joint reconstruction implants, extremity solutions, and various prevention and recovery franchises.
These lines enable comprehensive care, addressing patient needs before, during, and after injury or trauma. This broad portfolio provides the scale to compete with major MedTech players and unlocks extensive opportunities for brand expansion.
Earlier this year, Enovis completed the acquisition of LimaCorporate S.p.A, a private global orthopedic company focused on restoring motion via a portfolio of implant solutions, for an enterprise value of approximately 800 million euros <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/23/09/34859649/big-moves-in-orthopedics-enovis-seals-800m-deal-to-acquire-limacorporate" rel="noreferrer noopener">(around $850 million)</a>.
This second-largest deal in the company&#8217;s history bodes well for the company.
Management noted that channel integration was 100% complete in the U.S. and 70% outside the U.S., revenues were tracking slightly better than original guidance, and cost synergies of over $40 million in year three remain intact, with $10-$15 million accruing this year.
In the second quarter, Enovis reported sales of $525 million, up 23% on a reported basis and 5% on a Comparable sales <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/g40213609/enovis-announces-second-quarter-2024-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">basis year-over-year</a>.
&#8220;We continue to execute against our plan for the year and are off to a great start integrating our transformational Lima acquisition,&#8221; said Matt Trerotola, CEO of Enovis.
The analyst views the LimaCorporate deal as largely derisked. Peak dis-synergy of ~$10 million occurred in the second quarter of 2024, which is now in the rearview mirror.
JMP analyst initiates with a Market Outperform rating and a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ENOV/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target of $62</a>.
Despite a roughly 25% year-to-date decline in the stock and its current valuation at approximately 12x 2026 EPS estimates, JMP Securities says the market has yet to fully recognize the advantages of the acquisition and the progress made in its integration.
Given these factors, the analyst sees Enovis as undervalued compared to its mid-cap and orthopedic peers and deserving of a higher P/E multiple, especially with upcoming revenue and earnings growth catalysts.
Price Action: ENOV stock is down 2.02% at $40.02 at the last check on Thursday.
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</ul>

Analyst Color

Health Care

Initiation

ENOV

Orthopedic Implant Player Enovis' M&A Strategy Core To Growth And Competitiveness, Analyst Says

Israeli Military Says It Has Conducted Strike On Tulkarm In Occupied West Bank

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

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