Latest News for Royal Helium Stock (OTC:RHCCF)

Royal Helium Ltd is focused on the exploration and development of primary helium production in southern Saskatchewan. Royal is the helium leaseholder in North America. Located next to highways, roads, and cities, and importantly close to existing oil and gas infrastructure, the company's projects were methodically evaluated for helium potential for over two years, and have been vetted by helium experts, professional geologists, and engineers. Its project includes Saskatchewan Helium Play Elements for Success.

ROYAL HELIUM LIMITED by Royal Helium Limited

Royal Helium Ltd

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Super Micro Computer (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with SMCI, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 60 uncommon options trades for Super Micro Computer.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 33% bullish and 38%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 23 are puts, for a total amount of $1,120,802, and 37 are calls, for a total amount of $2,168,152.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $480.0 to $1500.0 for Super Micro Computer over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Super Micro Computer stands at 391.81, with a total volume reaching 13,087.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Super Micro Computer, situated within the strike price corridor from $480.0 to $1500.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Super Micro Computer 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1714058160_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>SMCI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>04/26/24</td>
<td>$233.4</td>
<td>$220.3</td>
<td>$226.65</td>
<td>$985.00</td>
<td>$226.6K</td>
<td>27</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMCI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$70.4</td>
<td>$69.0</td>
<td>$70.4</td>
<td>$770.00</td>
<td>$211.2K</td>
<td>169</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMCI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/03/24</td>
<td>$44.6</td>
<td>$44.6</td>
<td>$44.6</td>
<td>$800.00</td>
<td>$160.5K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMCI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/03/24</td>
<td>$45.0</td>
<td>$43.3</td>
<td>$43.81</td>
<td>$800.00</td>
<td>$109.5K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">316</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMCI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/26/24</td>
<td>$18.0</td>
<td>$17.2</td>
<td>$18.0</td>
<td>$760.00</td>
<td>$109.4K</td>
<td>584</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">756</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Super Micro Computer</h3>
Super Micro Computer Inc provides high-performance server technology services to cloud computing, data center, Big Data, high-performance computing, and "Internet of Things" embedded markets. Its solutions include server, storage, blade and workstations to full racks, networking devices, and server management software. The firm follows a modular architectural approach, which provides flexibility to deliver customized solutions. The Company operates in one operating segment that develops and provides high-performance server solutions based upon an innovative, modular and open-standard architecture. More than half of the firm's revenue is generated in the United States, with the rest coming from Europe, Asia, and other regions.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Super Micro Computer, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Present Market Standing of Super Micro Computer</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 1,917,663, with SMCI's price up by 1.34%, positioned at $764.81.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 5 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 Super Micro Computer options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Options

Markets

SMCI

Smart Money Is Betting Big In SMCI Options

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on Shake Shack.
Looking at options history for Shake Shack (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) we detected 11 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 72% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 18% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 2 are puts, for a total amount of $125,380 and 9, calls, for a total amount of $973,096.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $67.5 and $110.0 for Shake Shack, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Shake Shack's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Shake Shack's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $67.5 to $110.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Shake Shack 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1714058154_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>SHAK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$31.6</td>
<td>$29.2</td>
<td>$31.6</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$221.2K</td>
<td>71</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHAK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$26.5</td>
<td>$24.6</td>
<td>$26.5</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$212.0K</td>
<td>114</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHAK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$24.4</td>
<td>$22.7</td>
<td>$24.06</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$165.6K</td>
<td>84</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHAK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$34.4</td>
<td>$33.4</td>
<td>$33.4</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$100.2K</td>
<td>34</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHAK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/26/24</td>
<td>$1.15</td>
<td>$0.9</td>
<td>$0.96</td>
<td>$98.00</td>
<td>$96.2K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">11</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Shake Shack</h3>
Shake Shack Inc is a roadside burger stand. It is serving a classic American menu of premium burgers, hot dogs, crispy chicken, frozen custard, crinkle-cut fries, shakes, beer, wine and more. The company's burgers are made with a whole-muscle blend of all-natural, hormone and antibiotic-free Angus beef, ground fresh daily, cooked to order and served on a non-genetically modified organism (GMO) potato bun. Its menu focuses on food and beverages, crafted from a range of classic American foods. The company serves draft Root Beer, seasonal freshly-squeezed lemonade, organic fresh brewed iced tea, cold brew coffee, organic apple juice, and Shack20 bottled water.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Shake Shack, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Current Position of Shake Shack</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 115,640, the price of SHAK is down by -0.97%, reaching $98.57.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 7 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Shake Shack</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $119.0.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from TD Cowen downgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $125. </li>
<li>An analyst from TD Cowen downgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $125. </li>
<li>An analyst from Morgan Stanley has decided to maintain their Equal-Weight rating on Shake Shack, which currently sits at a price target of $105. </li>
<li>An analyst from TD Cowen downgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $125. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Truist Securities continues to hold a Buy rating for Shake Shack, targeting a price of $115. </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 Shake Shack options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

SHAK

Smart Money Is Betting Big In SHAK Options

WIIM

Live Oak Bancshares are trading lower after the company reported worse-than-expected Q1 financial results.

High-rolling investors have positioned themselves bullish on DraftKings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DKNG#NASDAQ">DKNG</a>), and it's important for retail traders to take note. 
\This activity came to our attention today through Benzinga's tracking of publicly available options data. The identities of these investors are uncertain, but such a significant move in DKNG often signals that someone has privileged information.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 28 options trades for DraftKings. This is not a typical pattern.
The sentiment among these major traders is split, with 60% bullish and 25% bearish. Among all the options we identified, there was one put, amounting to $57,200, and 27 calls, totaling $1,165,752.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $16.0 to $60.0 for DraftKings over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for DraftKings's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across DraftKings's significant trades, within a strike price range of $16.0 to $60.0, over the past month.
<h3>DraftKings Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1714058149_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>DKNG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$2.21</td>
<td>$2.16</td>
<td>$2.17</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$107.6K</td>
<td>7.3K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DKNG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>04/26/24</td>
<td>$0.31</td>
<td>$0.24</td>
<td>$0.31</td>
<td>$40.50</td>
<td>$67.7K</td>
<td>320</td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DKNG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$0.36</td>
<td>$0.34</td>
<td>$0.35</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$64.9K</td>
<td>10.0K</td>
<td>140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DKNG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$11.15</td>
<td>$10.3</td>
<td>$11.0</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$57.2K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>54</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DKNG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$2.19</td>
<td>$2.06</td>
<td>$2.19</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$54.7K</td>
<td>7.3K</td>
<td>2.9K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About DraftKings</h3>
DraftKings got its start in 2012 as an innovator in daily fantasy sports. Then, following a Supreme Court ruling in 2018 that allowed states to legalize online sports wagering, the company expanded into online sports and casino gambling, where it generally holds the number two or three revenue share position across states in which it competes. DraftKings is now live with online sports betting in 24 states (46% of the US population) and iGaming in seven states (11% of US), with both products available to around 40% of Canada's population. The company also operates a non-fungible token commissioned-based marketplace and develops and licenses online gaming products.
In light of the recent options history for DraftKings, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>DraftKings's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 3,051,770, with DKNG's price down by -1.63%, positioned at $40.19.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 7 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About DraftKings</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $54.0.
<ul>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Barclays continues to hold a Overweight rating for DraftKings, targeting a price of $52. </li>
<li>Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Benchmark lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $50.</li>
<li>An analyst from JP Morgan persists with their Overweight rating on DraftKings, maintaining a target price of $55. </li>
<li>An analyst from Needham persists with their Buy rating on DraftKings, maintaining a target price of $58. </li>
<li>An analyst from MoffettNathanson persists with their Buy rating on DraftKings, maintaining a target price of $55. </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 DraftKings, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

DKNG

Behind the Scenes of DraftKings's Latest Options Trends

Certain cannabis brands are making significant strides in terms of growth and popularity. But, what are these brands experiencing strong growth? and, where can these be found?
Utilizing tools like Headset&#39;s Cannabis Brand Explorer, stakeholders can navigate market data with precision, analyzing and comparing cannabis brands across various dimensions.
This <a href="https://www.headset.io/brands">tool</a> allows users to filter brands by best-selling status, product categories, and operational regions, providing actionable insights that drive business success.
Here&#39;s a look at the top ten high-rising brands across various states, showcasing their strong performance in early 2024
<h3>Top Ten High-Rising Brands Across States</h3>
Simply Herb: Dominating in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/illinois-cannabis">Illinois</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38282615/cannabis-brands-leading-market-expansion-in-east-midwest-a-look-at-prices-and-trend">, Massachusetts&nbsp;and Michigan</a>, Simply Herb has surpassed $10 million in sales with its robust portfolio in flowers, pre-rolls, and vapor pens.
Illicit / Illicit Gardens: With a strong presence in Missouri, this brand has also reached over $10 million in sales, excelling in concentrates, edibles, flowers, pre-rolls, and tinctures.
Good Chemistry Nurseries: Known in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/colorado-cannabis">Colorado</a> and Massachusetts, they&#39;ve earned more than $5 million, focusing on concentrates, flowers, pre-rolls, and vapor pens.
Play Cannabis: Operating in Michigan and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/nevada-cannabis">Nevada</a>, this brand has also generated over $5 million in sales, offering products ranging from edibles and concentrates to flower and vapor pens.
Pro Gro: Exclusively in Michigan, Pro Gro&#39;s offering includes <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cannabis-branding">edibles, flowers, and pre-rolls</a>, contributing to its strong growth and sales exceeding $5 million.
Grassroots: Expanding its reach across Arizona, Illinois, Massachusetts,<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/maryland-cannabis"> Maryland</a>, Nevada, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/new-york-cannabis">New York</a>, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ohio-cannabis">Ohio</a>, Grassroots boasts a diverse product line, including concentrates, edibles, and flowers, achieving over $5 million in revenue.
Smokiez Edibles: With operations in multiple states, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/arizona-cannabis">Arizona</a> and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/california-cannabis">California</a>, Smokiez Edibles excels in a variety of categories such as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cannabis-beverages">beverages</a>, edibles, and flowers, with sales also over $5 million.
Dime Bag: This brand is well-represented across a broad spectrum of states from Arizona to Washington, focusing on vapor pens and flower products and achieving similar financial success.
Fade Co.: Making its mark in Arizona and Maryland, Fade Co. specializes in concentrates and vapor pens, with revenues also crossing the $5 million threshold.
High Minded: Known in Michigan, High Minded offers a range of products including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis">edibles, concentrates, and flowers</a>, contributing to its noteworthy growth trajectory and sales figures.
Photo: AI-Generated Image.&nbsp;

Cannabis

News

Emerging Markets

Entrepreneurship

Retail Sales

General

Cannabis Brands On The Rise: Where To Find Them And How Large Is Their Footprint?

Trump Media shares are trading higher after the company's CEO reportedly sent a letter urging House GOP leaders to investigate possible manipulation of the stock.

UBS analyst Douglas Harter maintains Blackstone Mortgage Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BXMT#NYSE">BXMT</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $21 to $19.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

BXMT

UBS Maintains Neutral on Blackstone Mortgage Trust, Lowers Price Target to $19

Southwest Airlines Co&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) reported a&nbsp;first-quarter fiscal 2024&nbsp;operating revenue increase of 10.9% year-over-year to $6.33 billion,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/04/n38425614/southwest-airlines-reports-first-quarter-2024-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">missing the consensus of $6.42 billion.</a>
The carrier attributes its revenue performance to&nbsp;strong&nbsp;demand trends&nbsp;and&nbsp;passenger and ancillary revenue,&nbsp;passengers&nbsp;carried and new Rapid Rewards Members.
Adjusted EPS was $(0.36), down from $(0.27) last year, missing the consensus $(0.34).
The airline reported an adjusted operating loss of $(377) million, compared to $(284) million a year ago.
LUV&#8217;s first-quarter RASM came in at the low end of its expectations primarily due to lower-than-expected close-in leisure passenger volume, including lower-than-expected maturation of development markets.
Revenue passenger miles increased 12% Y/Y, Available seat miles were up 11% Y/Y, and load factor was 78.3% compared to 77.6% last year.&nbsp;
CASM-X increases by 5% Y/Y, reflecting favorable airport settlements and higher-than-expected participation in voluntary time off programs.
Fuel costs were $2.92 per gallon (-8.5% Y/Y), which included $0.08 per gallon in premium expenses and $0.04 per gallon in favorable cash settlements. Fuel efficiency improved by 2.5% Y/Y.
The Dallas-based company had a net cash position of $2.5 billion and an adjusted debt-to-invested capital ratio of 47% as of&nbsp;March-end.
LUV&#8217;s liquidity stood at $11.5 billion, more than the debt outstanding of $8 billion.
Southwest Airlines&#8217; cash used in operating activities for the quarter stood at $(104) million, compared to cash provided of $706 million a year ago.
&#8220;While costs remain a headwind, we are realizing benefits from our ongoing cost reduction actions and remain focused on enhancing productivity and controlling discretionary spending. We also have certainty with labor rates, having ratified agreements with 11 of our labor groups in the past 18 months, including the agreement ratified yesterday for our Flight Attendants,&#8221; commented Bob Jordan, President and Chief Executive Officer.
&#8220;Achieving our financial goals is an immediate imperative. The recent news from Boeing regarding further aircraft delivery delays presents significant challenges for both 2024 and 2025,&#8221; added Jordan.
&#8220;And, we are implementing cost control initiatives, including limiting hiring and offering voluntary time off programs. We now expect to end 2024 with approximately 2,000 fewer Employees as compared with the end of 2023.&#8221;
The company had made the difficult decision to close its operations at Bellingham International Airport, Cozumel International Airport,&nbsp;Houston&#8217;s&nbsp;George Bush Intercontinental Airport, and Syracuse Hancock International Airport.&nbsp;
Related:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38220492/southwest-faces-further-reductions-in-expected-boeing-jet-deliveries-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southwest Faces Further Reductions In Expected Boeing Jet Deliveries: Report</a>
Second-quarter 2024 Guidance:&nbsp;Southwest sees RASM down 1.5%-3.5% YoY; ASMs Up ~8%-9%; CASM-X up 6.5% to 7.5% and Economic fuel costs per gallon of $2.70 to $2.80.
2024 Guidance, updated:&nbsp;Southwest sees ASMs Up ~4%; CASM-X up 7% to 8%; Economic fuel costs per gallon of $2.70-$2.80. Capital spending of ~$2.5 billion.
Price Action: LUV shares are trading lower by 9.3% at $26.56 at the last check Thursday.
Image by Around the World Photos via Shutterstock

Earnings

Guidance

Movers

Southwest Airlines' Record Passenger Numbers Overshadowed By Q1 Earnings Slump And Boeing Setbacks

Century Communities Inc Files For Mixed Shelf Offering; Size Not Disclosed

The marijuana industry is expanding rapidly, with experts projecting annual global sales to grow from $30 billion in 2021 to $57 billion in 2026, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 13%. When it comes to the United States, the biggest cannabis market in the world, sales are expected to reach $32 billion in 2025, accounting for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/22/09/28840342/cannabis-market-may-reach-57b-by-2026-new-jersey-and-new-york-lead-growth">75% of total global sales</a>. 
Laws, rules and markets differ from state to state, so what are some of the best states for cannabis businesses in terms of revenue potential? 
A new <a href="https://www.suretybonds.org/blog/top-states-for-cannabis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> by Lance Surety Bonds, a provider of online bonding services, offers answers to this and other questions, including which market offers the most value for the best cannabis products. Its analyst methodology consisted of utilizing data from<a href="https://taxfoundation.org/research/all/state/cannabis-tax-revenue-reform/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the Tax Foundation</a> to calculate revenue potential and to assess prices through information from <a href="http://nuggmd.com./" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NuggMD</a>. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key Takeaways&nbsp;</h2>
<ul>
<li>States with the highest potential revenue from cannabis businesses in 2024:
<ul>
<li>Alaska</li>
<li>Colorado</li>
<li>Oklahoma</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The average national cost of a high-quality joint in America is $7.57</li>
<li>The average national cost of a high-quality ounce of cannabis in America is $325</li>
<li>Oregon, Washington, and Colorado have the most affordable joints of high-quality cannabis</li>
<li>The District of Columbia, North Dakota, and Virginia are the locations with the least affordable joints of high-quality cannabis.</li>
<li>States with the lowest potential revenue from cannabis businesses in 2024:
<ul>
<li>North Dakota</li>
<li>Hawaii</li>
<li>Delaware</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
See Also:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/04/38184664/based-on-the-number-of-dispensaries-weed-prices-hiking-trails-more-these-are-the-best-us-cannabi" rel="noreferrer noopener">Based On The Number Of Dispensaries, Weed Prices, Hiking Trails &amp; More, These Are The Best US Cannabis Cities</a>
Photo: Courtesy of <a href="https://unsplash.com/@elsaolofsson?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Elsa Olofsson</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-round-wreath-made-of-moss-and-a-pen-8oUeHebW-tI?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a>

Here's Where To Buy The Most Affordable High-Quality Cannabis, New Analysis Finds

Shares of social media companies including Snap Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNAP#NYSE">SNAP</a>) and Pinterest Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PINS#NYSE">PINS</a>) were down early Thursday in sympathy with Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), which fell after reporting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/04/38416273/meta-platforms-q1-earnings-highlights-facebook-owner-beats-estimates-but-guidance-higher-costs-ding">first-quarter financial results</a>.
What Happened: Meta beat analyst estimates on the top and bottom lines, reporting first-quarter revenue of $36.455 billion versus estimates of $36.156 billion and EPS of $4.71 versus estimates of $4.33, per&nbsp;<a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>.
"It's been a good start to the year. The new version of Meta AI with Llama 3 is another step towards building the world's leading AI. We're seeing healthy growth across our apps and we continue making steady progress building the metaverse as well," said&nbsp;Mark Zuckerberg, founder and CEO of Meta.
Although the company beat analyst estimates across the board, Meta shares are selling off, likely due to the company&#8217;s guidance.&nbsp;
Meta said it expects second-quarter revenue to be in the range of&nbsp;$36.5 billion to $39 billion versus estimates of $38.3 billion.&nbsp;
The company raised its expense outlook for the year from a range of $94 billion to $99 billion to a new range of $96 billion to $99 billion. Meta also raised its capital expenditures forecast from a range of $30 billion to $37 billion to a new range of $35 billion to $40 billion as the company continues to accelerate its infrastructure investments to support its AI roadmap.
&#8220;While we are not providing&nbsp;guidance&nbsp;for years beyond 2024, we expect capital expenditures will continue to increase next year as we invest aggressively to support our ambitious AI research and product development efforts,&#8221; the company said.
Meta also noted that it expects operating losses to &#8220;increase meaningfully&#8221; year-over-year&nbsp;for its Reality Labs division.
Don&#8217;t Miss: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/04/38429782/us-economy-grows-1-6-in-q1-slightly-below-expectations-as-price-pressures-weigh-o">US Economy Grows 1.6% In Q1, Sharply Below Expectations As Price Pressures Weigh On Spending</a>
What&#8217;s Next: Meta, Snap and Pinterest all operate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/social-media">social media</a> platforms. Snap is due to report its first-quarter results after the market close on Thursday. The company is expected to report a loss of 5 cents per share and revenue of $1.119 billion, according to estimates from <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Pinterest is scheduled to report next week on April 30. Analysts expect the idea discovery platform company to report earnings of 13 cents per share on revenue of $699.872 million.
SNAP, PINS Price Action: The social media stocks pared losses Thursday morning. At publication time, Snap shares were down 0.4% at $11.04 and Pinterest shares were down 1.68% at $32.30, per <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Photo: Sergei Elagin from Shutterstock.

PINS

SNAP

Why Snap And Pinterest Shares Are Moving Lower Thursday

Newmont Says Q2 Production And Costs Expected To Remain Consistent With Q1

UBS analyst Atul Maheswari maintains Sleep Number (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNBR#NASDAQ">SNBR</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $12 to $13.

SNBR

UBS Maintains Neutral on Sleep Number, Raises Price Target to $13

<a href="https://wbd.com/warner-bros-discovery-announces-olli-new-first-party-data-platform-powering-converged-audience-solutions/#:~:text=Warner%20Bros.%20Discovery%20(Nasdaq%3A,advanced%20advertising%20solutions%20for%20partners.">https://wbd.com/warner-bros-discovery-announces-olli-new-first-party-data-platform-powering-converged-audience-solutions/#:~:text=Warner%20Bros.%20Discovery%20(Nasdaq%3A,advanced%20advertising%20solutions%20for%20partners.</a>
Warner Bros. Discovery (Nasdaq: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wbd#Nasdaq">WBD</a>) today announced the launch of Olli, its proprietary first-party data platform powering the next generation of advanced advertising solutions for partners. By fusing data, audience intelligence and ad tech solutions, Olli allows for seamless campaign planning,&nbsp;activation&nbsp;and measurement across WBD's entire portfolio of premium content and brands. &nbsp;
Olli&nbsp;powers WBD's new, converged Data-Driven Video offering, which can identify&nbsp;one audience across all endpoints, creating the most efficient and precise way to maximize reach, improve engagement and mitigate waste.&nbsp;Enhanced&nbsp;by&nbsp;VideoAmp&nbsp;to further increase campaign efficiency, Data-Driven Video allows clients to exclude heavy linear TV viewers early in the planning process, and then redistribute&nbsp;the focus to balance the target audience across WBD's&nbsp;linear and digital platforms to ensure optimized reach and frequency. Additional efficiencies include in-flight optimizations that would further reduce unneeded exposures across the target audience. This approach simplifies media planning and delivers impactful audience solutions to audiences to inform smarter investments and enhanced measurement data.&nbsp;
WBD is currently partnering with OMG,&nbsp;RPA&nbsp;and Wayfair, among others, on providing Data-Driven Video solutions.&nbsp;IPG Mediabrands will begin testing in the third quarter of this year. &nbsp;
"With the introduction of Olli and Data-Driven Video, Warner Bros. Discovery offers a transformative approach to how media strategies are crafted and executed. Our goal is to ensure that every connection between brand and audience is reached in the most efficient and effective way across our vast expanse of digital and traditional platforms," said Ryan Gould, Head of Digital Ad Sales, Warner Bros. Discovery. "We've already seen early success with this offering, and we look forward to bringing it to the wider marketplace working with marketers looking to activate advanced audience segments to achieve their advertising, sales and marketing objectives." &nbsp;
With Olli, WBD can enhance the following pillars throughout a client's media strategy:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Data and Identity:&nbsp;Olli's comprehensive audience graph, derived from direct consumer relationships from over 100 million households and 700 million devices across the U.S., offers in-depth insights into user behaviors and preferences. This enables more effective audience identification, leading to stronger engagement and strategy development. Leveraging first-party data from active users, Olli constructs detailed audience profiles, ensuring precise&nbsp;first-party&nbsp;targeting and enhanced campaign performance.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Activation and Automation:&nbsp;Olli streamlines WBD ad tech processes with unified planning across the portfolio, integrating marketer data with WBD's robust first-party audience library, delivering unmatched targeting fidelity and campaign relevance with increased speed to market and cost efficiency. Leveraging Data Clean Room solutions from Snowflake, Olli enhances privacy compliance and data security that are crucial for today's digital advertising environment. &nbsp;</li>
<li>Insights and Measurement: Olli arms WBD with actionable ad analytics and industry-leading measurement strategies designed to prove efficacy and attribution throughout the consumer journey. With planned fully integrated measurement partners such as ABCS Insights and LoopMe, Olli provides insight and measurement that is more accurate and actionable for partners than ever before.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
Olli leverages the strength of WBD's unparalleled portfolio of brands, including HBO and Max, discovery+, CNN, TNT Sports, Bleacher Report, Food Network, HGTV, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network and more, to unleash the power of rich story-driven connections between brands and audiences. By enabling marketers to learn more about audience interests and behaviors, Olli will help advertisers identify the most impactful solutions to reach targeted audiences across all platforms to inform smarter investments and enhanced measurement data.&nbsp;

"Warner Bros. Discovery Announces 'Olli,' New First-Party Data Platform Powering Converged Audience Solutions"

Benchmark analyst Kurt Hallead reiterates Oceaneering International (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OII#NYSE">OII</a>) with a Buy and maintains $34 price target.

Reiteration

Benchmark Reiterates Buy on Oceaneering International, Maintains $34 Price Target

Nigeria has taken a significant step to revitalize its mining sector by revoking over 900 dormant mining titles. 
What Happened: A sweeping measure will target titles that have remained inactive for extended periods. The aim is to curb illicit practices and attract new investors to Nigeria&#8217;s mining industry, given recent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/04/38295033/rio-tintos-next-chief-commercial-officer-says-building-mines-is-better-than-buying-heres-how-">positive trends</a>.
"By creating a secondary black market to pawn mineral licenses, the unsuspecting and unwary investor is misled into believing that he can only obtain a license by patronizing the black market. This discourages investment, " mining Minister Dele Alake stated, as reported by Reuters.
Alake clarified that the revocation of these titles could create a fair and transparent process and curb "license racketeering."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/04/38405991/equinox-gold-snaps-up-greenstone-gold-mines-for-995m-in-incredibly-rare-deal">Equinox Gold Snaps Up Greenstone Gold Mines For $995M In &#8216;Incredibly Rare&#8217; Deal</a>
Why It Matters: Nigeria&#8217;s mining industry has long been overshadowed by its oil sector despite being rich in various minerals like gold, lithium, and limestone across more than 500 identified sites. The iron ore reserves alone are estimated at 2 billion tons. Yet, the mining sector accounted for only 0.45% of the country's GDP in 2020.
Nigeria&#8217;s heavy reliance on oil exports makes its economy vulnerable to fluctuating oil prices, in contrast to neighboring African countries that have successfully leveraged their mining sectors to diversify their economies. PwC's <a href="https://www.pwc.com/ng/en/assets/pdf/nigerian-mining-progress-but-still-a-long-way-to-go1.pdf">recent study</a> suggests the mining sector could contribute significantly to Nigeria&#8217;s GDP, creating jobs and boosting local manufacturing.
To change this situation, the government offers incentives to attract investors, such as tax waivers, full repatriation of profits, and a &#8220;first come, first served&#8221; system for acquiring new licenses. Additionally, the government is strengthening local processing to ensure that mined resources contribute directly to the country&#8217;s economy by granting licenses only to companies that process the minerals locally.
While these steps are promising, the mining sector still faces challenges. Infrastructure deficits, such as inadequate transportation and power supply, which also plague some of the largest African mining markets like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/03/37466646/zambia-plans-to-increase-copper-production-but-faces-3-problems">Zambia</a>, have become a source of unnecessary costs. Security concerns also play a role, with some mining regions experiencing illegal mining activities and community conflicts.
Nigeria needs a coordinated approach to unlock the sector&#8217;s potential. Streamlining regulations, improving infrastructure, and ensuring security in mining areas are crucial. Additionally, formalizing artisanal mining and fostering better engagement with local communities will minimize disruptions and create a more stable operating environment.
Benzinga Mining is the bridge between mining companies and retail investors. Reach out to <a href="mailto:licensing@benzinga.com">licensing@benzinga.com</a> to get started!
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/04/38381679/g-mining-ventures-spends-638m-to-buy-reunion-gold-guyana-project">G Mining Ventures Spends $638M To Buy Reunion Gold Guyana Project</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Commodities

Legal

Nigeria Cracks Down On Dormant Mining Titles To Stop 'License Racketeering'

<a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=overview.process&amp;ApplNo=218466" title="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=overview.process&amp;ApplNo=218466">https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=overview.process&amp;ApplNo=218466</a>

Biotech

Novartis Pharms Corp Gets FDA New Drug Application Approval For VIJOICE

UBS analyst Thomas Wadewitz maintains Old Dominion Freight Line (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ODFL#NASDAQ">ODFL</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $202 to $205.

ODFL

UBS Maintains Neutral on Old Dominion Freight Line, Raises Price Target to $205

UBS analyst John Lovallo maintains Owens-Corning (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OC#NYSE">OC</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $169 to $192.

UBS Maintains Buy on Owens-Corning, Raises Price Target to $192

Benchmark analyst Josh Sullivan reiterates Kratos Defense &amp; Security (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KTOS#NASDAQ">KTOS</a>) with a Buy and maintains $25 price target.

KTOS

Benchmark Reiterates Buy on Kratos Defense & Security, Maintains $25 Price Target

Royal Helium to receive $3M investment from Canada

Royal Helium enters initial offtake agreement for sale of food and beverage grade CO2

RHCCF

Small Cap

Press Releases

Royal Helium Appoints David Young as President

Royal Helium Announces Resignation of Director

ROYAL HELIUM ANNOUNCES GRANT OF STOCK BASED COMPENSATION

Royal Helium Approved to Receive $3 Million Investment from the Government of Canada

Contracts

Royal Helium Ltd. Engages ICP Securities Inc. for Automated Market Making Services

ROYAL HELIUM ANNOUNCES 2024 DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Royal Helium Ltd. Announces Issuance of Shares for Services Under a Consulting Agreement

ROYAL HELIUM ENTERS INTO INITIAL OFFTAKE AGREEMENT FOR THE SALE OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE GRADE CO2

Royal Helium and Sparrow Hawk Developments Enter Into a $25 Million Economic Partnership and LOI for Resource Development and New Facility Construction in Saskatchewan

Financing

Royal Helium Announces $6 Million Bought Deal Public Offering of Units for Drilling of High-Impact Appraisal Well at 40 Mile and Continued Advancement in Saskatchewan Helium Corridor