FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF - March (BATS: QMAR)

Latest news for FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF - March (BATS:QMAR)

Under normal market conditions, the Fund will invest substantially all of its assets in FLexible EXchange Options (FLEX Options) that reference the price performance of the Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (the Underlying ETF). FLEX Options are customized equity or index option contracts that trade on an exchange, but provide investors with the ability to customize key contract terms like exercise prices, styles and expiration dates. The Underlying ETF is an exchange-traded unit investment trust that uses a full replication strategy, meaning it invests in all of the stocks in the NASDAQ-100 Index. Invesco Capital Management LLC (Invesco) serves as the Underlying ETFs sponsor. The investment objective of the Underlying ETF is to seek to provide investment results that, before fees and expenses, correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the NASDAQ-100 Index. The NASDAQ-100 Index includes 100 of the largest domestic and international non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market based on market capitalization. The Fund's performance will not reflect the payment of dividends by the Underlying ETF. . The Funds investment sub-advisor is Cboe VestSM Financial LLC (Cboe Vest or the Sub-Advisor).

FT Cboe Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF - March

FT Vest Nasdaq-100 Buffer ETF - March

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Dollar Gen. Our analysis of options history for Dollar Gen (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DG#NYSE">DG</a>) revealed 9 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 44% of traders were bullish, while 44% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 5 were puts, with a value of $588,385, and 4 were calls, valued at $391,647.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $70.0 to $105.0 for Dollar Gen over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Dollar Gen'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 Dollar Gen's whale activity within a strike price range from $70.0 to $105.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Dollar Gen Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726691582_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$11.7</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$345.4K</td>
<td>588</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">385</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$14.45</td>
<td>$13.05</td>
<td>$13.05</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$261.0K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$12.35</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$105.7K</td>
<td>588</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$8.15</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$78.4K</td>
<td>6</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$8.8</td>
<td>$8.75</td>
<td>$8.75</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$68.2K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">78</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Dollar Gen</h3>
With more than 20,000 locations, Dollar General's banner is nearly ubiquitous across the rural United States. Dollar General serves as a convenient shopping destination for fill-in store trips, with its value proposition most relevant to consumers in small communities with a dearth of shopping options. The retailer operates a frugal store of about 7,500 square feet and primarily offers an assortment of branded and private-label consumable items (80% of net sales) such as paper and cleaning products, packaged and perishable food, tobacco, and health and beauty items at low prices. Dollar General also offers a limited assortment of seasonal merchandise, home products, and apparel. The firm sells most items at a price point of $10 or less.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Dollar Gen, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Dollar Gen's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 3,489,659, the price of DG is up 0.99% at $86.86. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 78 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Dollar Gen</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $112.4.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Evercore ISI Group persists with their In-Line rating on Dollar Gen, maintaining a target price of $100. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wells Fargo keeps a Equal-Weight rating on Dollar Gen with a target price of $130. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Goldman Sachs keeps a Buy rating on Dollar Gen with a target price of $122. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Raymond James keeps a Outperform rating on Dollar Gen with a target price of $120. </li>
<li>An analyst from BMO Capital has decided to maintain their Market Perform rating on Dollar Gen, which currently sits at a price target of $90. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Dollar Gen, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

Markets

Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in Dollar Gen

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Coherent (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COHR#NYSE">COHR</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with COHR, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 16 options trades for Coherent.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 68% bullish and 31%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $49,980, and 15, calls, for a total amount of $1,125,050.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $60.0 to $110.0 for Coherent during the past quarter. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Coherent'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 Coherent's whale trades within a strike price range from $60.0 to $110.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Coherent Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726691577_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>COHR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$26.5</td>
<td>$25.1</td>
<td>$26.5</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$265.0K</td>
<td>103</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COHR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$2.9</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$263.7K</td>
<td>93</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">754</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COHR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$4.4</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$82.0K</td>
<td>4.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">207</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COHR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$74.9K</td>
<td>874</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">224</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COHR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$10.1</td>
<td>$10.0</td>
<td>$10.1</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$50.5K</td>
<td>788</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">101</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Coherent</h3>
Coherent Corp engaged in materials, networking, and lasers, is a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops, manufactures, and markets engineered materials, optoelectronic components and devices, and lasers for use in the industrial, communications, electronics and instrumentation markets. The firm operates in three segments Networking, Materials, and Lasers Segment. It generates maximum revenue from Networking segment. The company geographically operates in North America. Europe, China, Japan and Rest of the world.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Coherent, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of Coherent</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 4,787,861, the price of COHR is up 4.16% at $81.16. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 47 days.</li>
</ul>
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 Coherent options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

COHR

Coherent Unusual Options Activity

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Medical Properties Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MPW#NYSE">MPW</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in MPW usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 11 extraordinary options activities for Medical Properties Trust. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 72% leaning bullish and 27% bearish. Among these notable options, 7 are puts, totaling $348,980, and 4 are calls, amounting to $257,760.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $5.0 to $10.0 for Medical Properties Trust during the past quarter. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Medical Properties Trust'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 Medical Properties Trust's whale activity within a strike price range from $5.0 to $10.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Medical Properties Trust Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726691572_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MPW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$0.52</td>
<td>$0.5</td>
<td>$0.52</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$168.7K</td>
<td>14.3K</td>
<td>3.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MPW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$2.23</td>
<td>$2.21</td>
<td>$2.21</td>
<td>$7.00</td>
<td>$99.5K</td>
<td>4.4K</td>
<td>500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MPW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$1.22</td>
<td>$1.18</td>
<td>$1.18</td>
<td>$6.00</td>
<td>$59.0K</td>
<td>399</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MPW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$1.17</td>
<td>$1.16</td>
<td>$1.16</td>
<td>$7.00</td>
<td>$52.2K</td>
<td>182</td>
<td>702</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MPW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$0.63</td>
<td>$0.58</td>
<td>$0.58</td>
<td>$5.50</td>
<td>$43.4K</td>
<td>8.6K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Medical Properties Trust</h3>
Medical Properties Trust Inc is a healthcare facility REIT. The company operates one segment, which owns and leases healthcare facilities. The vast majority of Medical's revenue is generated in the United States, followed by Germany and the United Kingdom. It provides financing for a variety of facilities that require funds for acquisitions, sale-leasebacks, new developments, and expansion projects.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Medical Properties Trust, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Where Is Medical Properties Trust Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 17,434,986, with MPW's price down by -4.65%, positioned at $5.95.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 36 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Medical Properties Trust</h3>
Over the past month, 2 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $6.25.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Truist Securities persists with their Hold rating on Medical Properties Trust, maintaining a target price of $6. </li>
<li>In a positive move, an analyst from Colliers Securities has upgraded their rating to Buy and adjusted the price target to $6. </li>
</ul>
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 Medical Properties Trust with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

A Closer Look at Medical Properties Trust's Options Market Dynamics

News

MCAG

Mountain Crest Acquisition Corp. V Receives Nasdaq Deficiency Notification

Management

AIG Appoints Keith Walsh Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Effective Oct. 21

SoFi Technologies Inc &nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOFI#NASDAQ">SOFI</a>) shares moved on heavy trading volume Wednesday as investors digested the first interest rate cut from the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40926026/federal-reserve-delivers-bold-0-5-rate-cut-signals-further-easing-ahead">Federal Reserve in four years.&nbsp;</a>
The Details: SoFi shares have been trending across social media and have climbed more than 10% over the past five days as investors anticipated a rate cut. 
The Federal Reserve delivered a 50 basis point (bps) cut Wednesday. The rate cut brings the federal funds rate down to a range of 4.75% to 5% and will reduce rates for consumers.&nbsp;
SoFi continues to diversify its offerings beyond student loans, expanding into personal loans, mortgages, investment accounts and credit cards. Many of SoFi's segments could benefit from lower interest rates, which may draw more borrowers to the company's offerings.&nbsp;
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40910569/nvidia-salesforce-announce-strategic-ai-collaboration-what-to-know">NVIDIA, Salesforce Announce Strategic AI Collaboration: What To Know</a>
SoFi's stock spiked to an intraday high of $8.53 just after the announcement from Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, but pulled back into the close. &nbsp;
According to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, more than 63 million SoFi shares changed hands in Wednesday's session and 18.74% of shares are being sold short. 
SOFI Price Action: According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, SoFi Technologies shares closed Wednesday down 0.12% at $8.11.
Read Also:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40904271/whats-going-on-with-amazon-stock">What&#8217;s Going On With Amazon Stock?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Fintech news covering the emerging Financial Technology services sector

Fintech

Movers

SOFI

What Happened With SoFi Stock Today?

RGEN

Repligen To Restate Financial Statements For 2023 And Early 2024, No Impact On Business Operations Or Strategic Outlook; Reaffirms 2024 Revenue Guidance, Adjusting FY Range To $627M-$642M After $6.6M Understatement

<h3>GAINERS:</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AUSAF">Australis Capital</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AUSAF#OTC">AUSAF</a>) shares closed up 1009900.00% at $0.01</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FUAPF">Global Compliance</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FUAPF#OTC">FUAPF</a>) shares closed up 44.00% at $0.00</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LMLLF">Pharmadrug</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMLLF#OTC">LMLLF</a>) shares closed up 30.25% at $0.02</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BMMJ">Body and Mind</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMMJ#OTC">BMMJ</a>) shares closed up 14.63% at $0.03</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CARA">Cara Therapeutics</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CARA#NASDAQ">CARA</a>) shares closed up 13.07% at $0.29</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CNPOF">RIV Capital</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNPOF#OTC">CNPOF</a>) shares closed up 9.54% at $0.15</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CNBX">CNBX Pharmaceuticals</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNBX#OTC">CNBX</a>) shares closed up 8.96% at $0.01</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/OILFF">Nextleaf Solutions</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OILFF#OTC">OILFF</a>) shares closed up 6.47% at $0.06</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UGRO">Urban-gro</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UGRO#NASDAQ">UGRO</a>) shares closed up 5.67% at $1.36</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FFNTF">4Front Ventures</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FFNTF#OTC">FFNTF</a>) shares closed up 5.60% at $0.05</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SOLCF">SOL Glb Inv</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOLCF#OTC">SOLCF</a>) shares closed up 3.59% at $0.03</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CURR">Currenc Group</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURR#NASDAQ">CURR</a>) shares closed up 3.54% at $2.70</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BLOZF">Cannabix Technologies</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLOZF#OTC">BLOZF</a>) shares closed up 3.45% at $0.34</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GENE">Genetic Technologies</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GENE#NASDAQ">GENE</a>) shares closed up 3.06% at $0.80</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRMD">MariMed</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRMD#OTC">MRMD</a>) shares closed up 3.03% at $0.17</li>
</ul>
<h3>LOSERS:</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LBUY">Leafbuyer Techs</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LBUY#OTC">LBUY</a>) shares closed down 86.01% at $0.00</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MGWFF">Maple Leaf Green World</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MGWFF#OTC">MGWFF</a>) shares closed down 15.71% at $0.02</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/XXII">22nd Century Group</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XXII#NASDAQ">XXII</a>) shares closed down 11.74% at $0.24</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/YCBD">cbdMD</a> (AMEX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YCBD#AMEX">YCBD</a>) shares closed down 9.23% at $0.50</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CBDY">Target Group</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CBDY#OTC">CBDY</a>) shares closed down 9.09% at $0.00</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CXXIF">C21 Investments</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CXXIF#OTC">CXXIF</a>) shares closed down 6.38% at $0.22</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EAST">Eastside Distilling</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EAST#NASDAQ">EAST</a>) shares closed down 5.09% at $0.57</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SNDL">SNDL</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNDL#NASDAQ">SNDL</a>) shares closed down 3.17% at $2.13</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRBP">Corbus Pharmaceuticals</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRBP#NASDAQ">CRBP</a>) shares closed down 3.08% at $49.33</li>
</ul>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Cannabis

AUSAF

BLOZF

BMMJ

CARA

CBDY

CNBX

CNPOF

CRBP

CURE PHARMA HLDG CORP by CURE Pharmaceutical Holding Corp.

CURR

CXXIF

EAST

FFNTF

FUAPF

GENE

LEAFBUYER TECHNOLOGIES by Leafbuyer Technologies, Inc.

LBUY

LMLLF

MGWFF

MRMD

OILFF

SNDL

SOLCF

UGRO

XXII

YCBD

Bullish Wednesday For Marijuana Stocks - Australis Capital, Leafbuyer Techs Among Top Gainers

The Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the first time in more than four years on Wednesday, opting to lower the rates by 50 basis points to a range <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40926026/federal-reserve-delivers-bold-0-5-rate-cut-signals-further-easing-ahead">of 4.75% to 5%.</a>
Here's a look at what the rate cuts could mean for consumers.
What Happened: The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/federal-reserve">Federal Reserve's decision to cut interest rates</a> could have a trickle-down effect on several items that are important to consumers (i.e., mortgage rates, credit card interest rates, auto loan rates and more).
While the main priority with cutting rates or raising rates is to keep inflation in check at a goal of 2%, consumers will see the effects of the rate cut in the short and long term.
On Wednesday, mortgage rates were already <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40921345/mortgage-rates-drop-to-2-year-low-refinancing-hits-fastest-pace-since-2022-rocket-lendingtree-among">hitting their lowest rate </a>in two years. Thirty-year mortgages were at 6.15%, leading to an increase in refinance applications.
And they will likely go lower in the future, which could lead to an increase in home purchases. Higher rates have likely kept some consumers from being able to afford a purchase.
The big question will be how low mortgage rates can go. They previously stood under 4% before the Fed began raising interest rates to fight off inflation. Mortgage rates have gotten over 8% in recent years and the continued decline will be a welcome sight for future homebuyers and for those looking to sell their home into growing demand.
Credit card interest rates will also decline due to the Fed's decision. That could mean consumers feel better about making big purchases or increasing their monthly spend.
Auto loans will also see interest rates go down, which could mean an influx of consumers looking to buy new or used cars.
On the flip side, the decision to cut rates could see the value of the US Dollar decline. Consumers could also see their interest rates on savings accounts decline and investments like treasuries offer less return.
Read Also<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40926310/s-p-500-gold-strike-all-time-highs-after-fed-cuts-rates-for-first-time-in-4-years">: S&amp;P 500, Gold Strike All-Time Highs, Small Caps Rally After Fed Slashes Interest Rates For First Time In 4 Years</a>
What's Next: The Federal Reserve also suggested that more rate cuts are on the horizon before 2024 ends.
A total of 100 basis points in cuts is now forecasted for the year. This could mean a 25 basis-point cut for the November and December meetings.
Additional rate cuts are expected in 2025 and 2026. Future forecasts show that the Fed Funds Rate could drop to 2.9% by the end of 2026. 
The Fed's decision will also lead to potential rotation changes for investors with gold gaining on the announcement and Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) initially trading higher before dropping slightly.
Small-cap stocks are also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40919822/small-cap-sectors-brace-for-fed-rate-cut-financials-real-estate-etfs-offer-compelling-plays-for-inve">likely to be a winner</a> for investors. Lower interest rates means smaller companies can more easily borrow money to help fund their growth.
The iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) is outperforming the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) on Wednesday.
The fund, which tracks the Russell 2000 index of 2,000 small cap stocks, increased sharply on the announcement. Investors and analysts see the ETF, which has underperformed other index funds, outpacing the market after the interest rate cut.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="&#x1f534;WATCH LIVE: Jerome Powell Speaks, FOMC Press Conference &#x7C; September 18th, 2024" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qVdXli47cWk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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</figure>
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/21/06/21589003/5-things-you-might-not-know-about-federal-reserve-chair-jerome-powell">5 Things You Might Not Know About Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Pixabay

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Federal Reserve

ETFs

$BTC

Interest Rates In Free-Fall: What It Means For Mortgages, Credit Cards And Your Wallet As The Federal Reserve Springs Into Action For First Time In 4 Years

EDUC

Educational Development Terminates Its Agreement With Rockford Holdings For Sale And Leaseback Of Hilti Complex

Intelligent Bio Solutions Inc. - Common Stock

INBS

Intelligent Bio Solutions Inc  Entered Into At Market Offering Agreement With Ladenburg Thalmann & Co.

Net loss attributable to common shareholders for the six months ended June 30, 2024, was &euro;21.9 million, or a &euro;0.46 basic loss per share. This compares to a net loss attributable to common shareholders of &euro;28.1 million, or &euro;0.80 basic loss per share, for the same period in 2023.

Earnings

NBTX

NANOBIOTIX Reports H1 Basic EPS Of €(0.46), Up From €(0.80) Last Year, Revenue And Other Income Of €9.3M, Up From €3.3M Last Year

Kratos Defense &amp; Security Solutions Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KTOS#NASDAQ">KTOS</a>) shares hit new 52-week highs on Wednesday on what appeared to be continued strength from an U.S. Air Force award announced Tuesday. 
The stock also got a boost from strength across broader markets following the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40926026/federal-reserve-delivers-bold-0-5-rate-cut-signals-further-easing-ahead">Federal Reserve&#8217;s decision on rates</a>.
What To Know: <a href="http://benzinga.com/quote/ktos">Kratos Defense shares</a> reached new 52-week highs on Wednesday, a day after the stock traded higher as the company announced it received a $79.8 million delivery order for 60 aircraft, mission kits, flight consumables and technical data for the BQM-167A Air Force Subscale Aerial Target under a five-year contract. 
If all options are exercised at the maximum production quantities, Kratos said the contract value could be as high as $374.04 million.
The award incorporates enhancements that include the largest capability upgrade to date for the BQM-167A. The increased capabilities are expected to improve weapon systems verification and training efforts the BQM-167A helps enable.
&#8220;As our nation&#8217;s peer threat countries continuously grow their capabilities in both technology and mass, our country must train our military and test our defenses against current, relevant, accurate, and representative threat systems,&#8221; said Steve Fendley, president of Kratos&#8217; unmanned systems division.
&#8220;Kratos is proud its BQM-167A has been a part of this solution for over 20 years and of the GAPP upgrades which increase the capability and extend the relevance of this affordable threat representative aircraft for years to come.&#8221;
Kratos shares are up nearly 9% over the past week, according to data from <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>. Several stocks <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40926310/s-p-500-gold-strike-all-time-highs-after-fed-cuts-rates-for-first-time-in-4-years">initially popped</a> Wednesday afternoon after the Fed cut rates by 0.5%. Small caps led the way, and the SPDR S&amp;P 500 (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) hit new all-time highs Wednesday afternoon before sliding into the close.
Wednesday's&nbsp;0.5% rate cut brought the&nbsp;target fed funds rate&nbsp;to a new range&nbsp;between 4.75% and 5%, down from a 23-year high of 5.25% to 5.5%. It was also the first rate cut since March 2020. 
KTOS Price Action: Kratos Defense shares traded as high as $23.97 on Wednesday before pulling back. The stock closed the session up 4.37% at $23.41, per <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40927293/powell-defends-0-5-interest-rate-drop-as-right-thing-for-the-economy-doubles-down">Powell Defends 0.5% Interest Rate Drop As &#8216;Right Thing For The Economy,&#8217; Doubles Down On Fed&#8217;s Cautious, Data-Driven Approach</a>
Photo: Courtesy of Kratos Defense &amp; Security Solutions.

Government

Contracts

KTOS

Kratos Defense Stock Hit New 52-Week Highs On Wednesday: What Happened?

Guidance

NANOBIOTIX Expects Cash And Equivalents Of €66.3M As Of June-End, To Now Fund Operations Into Q4 2025, Compared To Q3 2025 In Prior Guidance

The Selling Shareholder intends to grant the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 1.50 million additional Class A shares. HESM will not receive any proceeds from the sale of Class A shares in the offering.

Offerings

HESM

Hess Midstream Reports Commencement Of Public Offering Of 10M Class A Shares Representing Limited Partner Interests By Selling Shareholder Global Infrastructure Partners

ECDA

ECD Auto Design Appoints Benjamin Piggott As CFO, Succeeding Raymond Cole; Scott Wallace Named Chairman Amid Board Restructure

&nbsp;Trading in the Company&#39;s common stock will be suspended immediately.

NYSE To Begin Delisting Proceedings Against Tupperware Brands

Koss's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KOSS#NYSE">KOSS</a>) short percent of float has fallen 4.55% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 493 thousand shares sold short, which is 10.27% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.0 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Koss Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726690523_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Koss has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Koss's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Koss's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 8.24%, which means the company has more short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Trading Ideas

KOSS

(KOSS) - Analyzing Koss's Short Interest

Toast's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TOST#NYSE">TOST</a>) short percent of float has risen 20.12% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 37.55 million shares sold short, which is 8.3% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 9.58 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Toast Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726690517_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Toast has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Toast's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Toast's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 5.50%, which means the company has more short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

TOST

(TOST) - Analyzing Toast's Short Interest

Martin Marietta Materials's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MLM#NYSE">MLM</a>) short percent of float has risen 20.19% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 1.37 million shares sold short, which is 2.56% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.0 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Martin Marietta Materials Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726690511_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Martin Marietta Materials has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Martin Marietta Materials's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Martin Marietta Materials's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 2.85%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Looking Into Martin Marietta Materials's Recent Short Interest

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