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Roth MKM analyst Jeff Martin maintains OSI Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OSIS#NASDAQ">OSIS</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $178 to $224.

News

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

OSIS

Roth MKM Maintains Buy on OSI Systems, Raises Price Target to $224

Roth MKM analyst Scott Stember maintains Polaris (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PII#NYSE">PII</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $76 to $57.

Roth MKM Maintains Neutral on Polaris, Lowers Price Target to $57

Roth MKM analyst Scott Stember maintains Brunswick (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BC#NYSE">BC</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $91 to $85.

Roth MKM Maintains Buy on Brunswick, Lowers Price Target to $85

<h3>Gainers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Starbox Group Hldgs (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STBX#NASDAQ">STBX</a>) stock increased by 70.0% to $0.87 during Friday's pre-market session. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $42.8 million. </li>
<li>NFT (AMEX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MI#AMEX">MI</a>) stock moved upwards by 15.86% to $3.36. The company's market cap stands at $10.3 million. </li>
<li>Blue Hat Interactive (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BHAT#NASDAQ">BHAT</a>) stock increased by 10.5% to $0.06. The company's market cap stands at $15.0 million. </li>
<li>TruGolf Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRUG#NASDAQ">TRUG</a>) stock increased by 9.25% to $0.53. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $15.3 million. </li>
<li>Mega Matrix (AMEX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MPU#AMEX">MPU</a>) shares rose 7.43% to $1.3. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $52.6 million. </li>
<li>Grindr (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRND#NYSE">GRND</a>) stock increased by 6.99% to $17.9. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $3.1 billion. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Losers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Gray Media (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTN#NYSE">GTN</a>) stock decreased by 20.8% to $6.0 during Friday's pre-market session. The company's market cap stands at $598.5 million. </li>
<li>AirNet Technology (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANTE#NASDAQ">ANTE</a>) shares declined by 8.08% to $0.41. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $5.8 million. </li>
<li>PodcastOne (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PODC#NASDAQ">PODC</a>) stock decreased by 6.93% to $2.27. The company's market cap stands at $55.6 million. </li>
<li>John Wiley &amp; Sons (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WLYB#NYSE">WLYB</a>) shares declined by 6.55% to $40.95. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $2.2 billion. </li>
<li>Eventbrite (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EB#NYSE">EB</a>) stock decreased by 5.15% to $3.32. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $321.6 million. </li>
<li>DallasNews (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DALN#NASDAQ">DALN</a>) stock fell 4.95% to $6.54. The company's market cap stands at $35.0 million. 
See Also: <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/best-communication-services-stocks/" title="www.benzinga.com/money/best-communication-services-stocks/">www.benzinga.com/money/best-communication-services-stocks/</a></li>
</ul>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Movers

ANTE

BHAT

DALN

GRND

PODC

STBX

TRUG

WLYB

12 Communication Services Stocks Moving In Friday's Pre-Market Session

U.S. stocks traded lower midway through trading, with the Dow Jones index falling over 100 points on Friday.
The Dow traded down 0.24% to 44,458.34 while the NASDAQ fell 0.08% to 20,036.71. The S&amp;P 500 also fell, dropping, 0.06% to 6,115.26.
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/43189390/top-3-materials-stocks-that-may-fall-off-a-cliff-in-january">Top 3 Materials Stocks That May Fall Off A Cliff In January</a>
Leading and Lagging Sectors Utilities shares surged by 0.7% on Friday.
In trading on Friday, energy shares fell by 0.6%.
Top Headline
The S&amp;P Global manufacturing PMI rose to 50.1 in January versus 49.4 in December, versus market estimates of 49.7
Equities Trading UP &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Allurion Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALUR#NASDAQ">ALUR</a>) shares shot up 205% to $11.29 after the company announced plans to raise approximately $7.4 million of gross proceeds in offering priced at-the-market.</li>
<li>Shares of Dana Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAN#NYSE">DAN</a>)got a boost, surging 17% to $15.52 after the company provided FY25 guidance.</li>
<li>Twilio Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TWLO#NYSE">TWLO</a>) shares were also up, gaining 21% to $137.15 after the company issued fourth-quarter earnings guidance above estimates and a year-over-year revenue increase. Multiple analysts raised their price targets on the stock.</li>
</ul>
Equities Trading DOWN
<ul>
<li>U Power Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UCAR#NASDAQ">UCAR</a>) shares dropped 25% to $5.77 after the company announced the pricing of $5 million registered direct offering.</li>
<li>Shares of Midland States Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSBI#NASDAQ">MSBI</a>) were down 16% to $21.00 after the company reported a year-over-year decrease in fourth-quarter adjusted EPS results.</li>
<li>Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ERIC#NASDAQ">ERIC</a>) was down, falling 12% to $7.88 after the company reported worse-than-expected fourth-quarter financial results.</li>
</ul>
Commodities In commodity news, oil traded down 0.2% to $74.47 while gold traded up 0.7% at $2,785.20.
Silver traded up 1% to $31.16 on Friday, while copper fell 0.2% to $4.32.
Euro zone
European shares were mostly lower today. The eurozone's STOXX 600 fell 0.07%, Germany's DAX 40 fell 0.13% and France's CAC 40 gained 0.30%. Spain's IBEX 35 Index fell 0.23%, while London's FTSE 100 fell 0.67%.
Asia Pacific Markets
Asian markets closed mixed on Friday, with Japan's Nikkei 225 falling 0.07%, China's Shanghai Composite Index gaining 0.70%, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index gaining 1.86% and India's BSE Sensex falling 0.43%.
Economics
<ul>
<li>The S&amp;P Global services PMI declined to 52.8 in January from 56.8 in the previous month, compared to market expectations of 56.5.</li>
<li>The S&amp;P Global manufacturing PMI rose to 50.1 in January versus 49.4 in December, versus market estimates of 49.7</li>
</ul>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43189554/how-to-earn-500-a-month-from-general-motors-stock-ahead-of-q4-earnings">How To Earn $500 A Month From General Motors Stock Ahead Of Q4 Earnings</a></li>
</ul>

Earnings

Equities

Eurozone

Commodities

Markets

Trading Ideas

ALUR

ERIC

MSBI

TWLO

UCAR

Dow Falls 100 Points; US Manufacturing PMI Rises In January

CSX Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSX#NASDAQ">CSX</a>) tanked in early trading on Friday, after the company reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43178919/csx-stock-dips-after-mixed-q4-results-details">disappointing fourth-quarter revenues</a>.
The company reported its quarterly results amid an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings">exciting earnings season</a>. Here are some key analyst takeaways.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">BMO Capital Markets On CSX</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/586f95cc72b34c0001c9b15b/fadi-chamoun">Analyst Fadi Chamoun</a> reiterated an Outperform rating while reducing the price target from $40 to $38.
CSX reported fourth-quarter revenues of around $3.54 billion, down 3.8% year-on-year "despite 1% higher volume, robust pricing in the merchandise segment and stable pricing in intermodal," Chamoun said in a note. The company's results were affected by "lower fuel revenues, unfavorable mix, lower coal commodity prices, and the impact of hurricanes," he added.
Although CSX's adjusted earnings of 42 cents per share came in-line with expectations, it included a tax benefit of $26 million, or 1.5 cents per share, the analyst stated. "Pressures from several transitory items are higher than anticipated and weigh on the near-term outlook," he further wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">RBC Capital Markets On CSX</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/58d3cdb7b85e930001808a57/walter-spracklin">Analyst Walter Spracklin</a> maintained a Sector Perform rating while cutting the price target from $34 to $33.
CSX's reports were broadly in-line with expectations, but were impacted by several "operational issues," Spracklin said.
Management warned of a significant year-on-year decline in operating income due to a number of "discreet costs that will hit the company," which include "lower export coal benchmarks, fuel prices, and cycling of favorable fuel surcharge lag, in addition to costs related to major construction projects on the Howard Street Tunnel and Blue Ridge Subdivision," the analyst stated. He lowered the earnings estimate for 2025 from $1.95 per share to $1.86 per share.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Raymond James On CSX</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/597a27c4c1f5580001ef5088/patrick-tyler%20brown">Analyst Patrick Tyler Brown</a> reaffirmed an Outperform rating while reducing the price target from $38 to $37.
CSX reported its adjusted earnings at 42 cents per share, representing a 7% year-on-year decline, while missing the revenue expectations, Brown said. The company's full-year earnings were impacted by higher costs, he added.
"While 2024 was fraught with headwinds for CSX, unfortunately it appears that 2025 will be another year with serious hurdles outside management's control," the analyst wrote. The company's ONECSX initiatives could drive stronger revenues, margins, free cash flows and earnings "in out years," he further stated.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Stephens On CSX</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/5805f8a2846faa000106ab15/james-schneider">Analyst Daniel Imbro</a> maintained an Overweight rating and price target of $38.
While some downward revision in estimates was expected due to headwinds in the first half of 2025, management commentary "suggests numbers need to come down further than expected," Imbro said. The headwinds may be transitory, and the company's performance is likely to improve in the back half of 2025 and into 2026, he added.
"Additionally, channel checks remain positive on CSX's service performance, which we expect to drive share gains over time (particularly after the Howard Street tunnel is completed)," the analyst wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Stifel On CSX</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/586bcbd7351b9b0001ab7381/benjamin-nolan">Analyst Benjamin Nolan</a> reiterated a Buy rating and price target of $37.
CSX is gearing up for several challenges in the first half of 2025, Nolan said. The company projected an unfavorable impact of $300 million from lower export coal benchmark pricing and fuel prices and $10 million per month of operating income loss from construction projects on the Howard Street Tunnel and Blue Ridge Subdivision, he added.
The company's three-year targets of CAGRs (compounded annual growth rates), of 4%-6% in revenue, 4%-9% in operating income, and 7%-13% in earnings, are based on commodity prices remaining stable for both coal and fuel, the analyst stated. "While headwinds will be largely isolated to the first half of the year, recovery will take time to materialize," he further wrote.
CSX Price Action: Shares of CSX had declined by 2.88% to $32.70 at the time of publication on Friday.
Read More: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/24/11/42212364/trumps-tariff-threat-to-canada-may-disrupt-oil-markets-inflate-prices-would-likely-raise-the-price-of-fuels-says-analyst">Trump&#8217;s Tariff Threat To Canada May Disrupt Oil Markets, Inflate Prices: &#8216;Would Likely Raise The Price Of Fuels,&#8217; Says Analyst</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Earnings Beats

Reiteration

CSX Shares Slide As Q4 Revenues Fall Short, Impact From 'Operational Issues' Notes Analyst

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Cava Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAVA#NYSE">CAVA</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 CAVA, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 10 options trades for Cava Group.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 50% bullish and 40%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $25,520, and 9, calls, for a total amount of $1,029,666.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $120.0 to $150.0 for Cava Group during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for Cava Group options trades today is 494.75 with a total volume of 1,525.00.
In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for Cava Group's big money trades within a strike price range of $120.0 to $150.0 over the last 30 days.
<h3>Cava Group 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737738039_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 align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$30.25</td>
<td>$29.35</td>
<td>$29.8</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$178.8K</td>
<td align="right">505</td>
<td align="right">73</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$30.05</td>
<td>$28.7</td>
<td>$29.77</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$178.6K</td>
<td align="right">505</td>
<td align="right">133</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$18.55</td>
<td>$17.75</td>
<td>$17.75</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$177.5K</td>
<td align="right">786</td>
<td align="right">100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$18.35</td>
<td>$17.85</td>
<td>$18.05</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$144.4K</td>
<td align="right">786</td>
<td align="right">279</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$18.25</td>
<td>$17.65</td>
<td>$17.79</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$142.4K</td>
<td align="right">786</td>
<td align="right">419</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Cava Group</h3>
Cava Group Inc owns and operates a chain of restaurants. It is the category-defining Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant brand, bringing together healthful food and bold, satisfying flavors at scale. The company's dips, spreads, and dressings are centrally produced and sold in grocery stores. The company's operations are conducted as two reportable segments: CAVA and Zoes Kitchen. The company generates the majority of its revenue from the CAVA segment.
In light of the recent options history for Cava Group, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Where Is Cava Group Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 512,443, the CAVA's price is up by 0.7%, now at $124.88. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 32 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Cava Group</h3>
2 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $126.0.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Barclays has decided to maintain their Equal-Weight rating on Cava Group, which currently sits at a price target of $127. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from UBS continues to hold a Neutral rating for Cava Group, targeting a price of $125. 
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 Cava Group options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Options

CAVA

Decoding Cava Group's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on IREN. Our analysis of options history for IREN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IREN#NASDAQ">IREN</a>) revealed 53 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 58% of traders were bullish, while 37% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 23 were puts, with a value of $2,601,963, and 30 were calls, valued at $2,962,691.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $10.0 to $25.0 for IREN during the past quarter. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in IREN's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to IREN's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $10.0 to $25.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>IREN Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737738034_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.55</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$465.8K</td>
<td>100</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$3.65</td>
<td>$3.65</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$456.3K</td>
<td>100</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$3.45</td>
<td>$3.45</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$431.7K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$1.7</td>
<td>$1.58</td>
<td>$1.7</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$317.5K</td>
<td>13.3K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$1.73</td>
<td>$1.51</td>
<td>$1.72</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$296.1K</td>
<td>13.3K</td>
<td>10.0K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About IREN</h3>
IREN Ltd is engaged in data center business powering the future of Bitcoin, AI and beyond utilizing renewable energy.
<h3>IREN's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 7,504,442, the price of IREN is up by 4.82%, reaching $12.87.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 20 days from now.</li>
</ul>
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>.
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 IREN options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

IREN

A Closer Look at IREN's Options Market Dynamics

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/42935393/millions-of-public-employees-to-see-boosted-social-security-payments-after-biden-signed-social-security-fairness-act-into-law">Social Security</a> is a cornerstone of financial stability for millions of Americans, with 68 million beneficiaries receiving monthly payments. While this program is vital for many retirees, disabled individuals and their families, a surprising contributor helps keep it afloat: unauthorized immigrants.
Though ineligible for Social Security benefits themselves, unauthorized immigrants contribute billions annually to this program. According to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, this group paid $25.7 billion in Social Security taxes in 2022. These funds effectively subsidize the program, supporting millions of American beneficiaries.
This unique situation arises because many <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40744471/trumps-plan-to-ban-mortgages-for-undocumented-immigrants-sparks-debate-what-do-the-numbers-say">undocumented workers</a> pay taxes using fabricated or borrowed Social Security numbers. They may earn wages through legal employment channels, but they cannot collect the benefits their contributions help fund without a change in their immigration status.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/62-years-old-with-1-mil-saved">I&#8217;m 62 Years Old And Have $1.2 Million Saved. Is This Enough to Retire Stress-Free?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/planning-your-retirement-new-changes-to-social-security-in-2025-could-affect-you">Planning Your Retirement? New Changes To Social Security In 2025 Could Affect You</a></li>
</ul>
Why does this matter?&nbsp;
Social Security is growing ever closer to its looming depletion date, largely due to demographic trends. With baby boomers retiring in large numbers, birth rates declining and longer life expectancies, the system is experiencing a strain it can't keep up with. Without intervention, the trust fund supporting Social Security retirees is expected to run out by 2033. At that point, tax revenue will only cover 79% of scheduled payments, meaning retirees will face a 21% cut to their benefits.&nbsp;
Immigration, including unauthorized workers, may play a large role in mitigating this issue. Younger workers, many immigrants, enter the labor force and contribute payroll taxes that sustain the program. With declining birth rates, immigration is expected to become the sole driver of population growth by the year 2040, according to the Congressional Budget Office.&nbsp;
See Also: Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/1milsaved"> The percentage may shock you</a>.
"Net immigration into the country is one factor that has positively pushed against that trend and helped fill the gap left by an aging workforce," Shai Akabas, director of economic policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center, told The New York Times.
With President <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43056464/giving-millions-and-kissing-the-ring-when-trillions-are-at-stake-is-nothing-says-mark-cuban-explaining-why-big-tech-supports-trump">Donald Trump</a> promising mass deportation across the United States, Social Security could be impacted. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43007217/a-crucial-ingredient-for-production-what-mass-deportations-could-cost-america">Mass deportations</a> and restrictive immigration policies could reduce the labor force and their payroll tax contributions. Economists estimate that the deportation of 11 million undocumented workers could cut $20 billion from Social Security's annual cash flow.&nbsp;
The program's financial health also hinges on net immigration rates. The Social Security Administration released a report that shows how immigration levels affect the long-term funding gap. Increasing 100,000 net immigrants annually improves the funding gap by 0.09% of the taxable payroll. Likewise, a decline in immigrants worsens the shortfall.&nbsp;
Trending: The average 401(k) balance soars to a record-breaking high – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/average-401k-balances-soars-to-record-high">Here's how to know if your nest egg is keeping pace.</a>
Even though they lack legal status, many undocumented workers still comply with tax laws. According to The New York Times, it's estimated that at least half of undocumented workers file their federal tax returns, typically using Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs). ITINs allow those without Social Security Numbers to report their income. These tax contributions don't just help fund Social Security, but they also support <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42728529/suze-orman-warns-medicare-doesnt-cover-everything-why-you-need-2000-for-drugs-and-1676-for-hospital-costs-in-2025">Medicare</a>, unemployment insurance and other programs.&nbsp;
Some undocumented workers file taxes to demonstrate good moral character, which may strengthen future immigration cases. Sarah Lora, a Lewis &amp; Clark Law School professor, told The New York Times that "there is almost a reverence for the tax system" among undocumented taxpayers seeking integration into American society.
Unauthorized immigrants' tax contributions highlight their role in supporting critical public programs. Understanding this relationship is essential for crafting effective solutions as policymakers debate the future of Social Security and immigration.
Their contributions remain a quiet but crucial lifeline for Social Security, benefiting millions of Americans who rely on its support.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/suze-orman-retirement-bucket">&#8216;Which Bucket Do I Draw From First?&#8217; Suze Orman Explains To 67-Year-Old The Best Order For Tapping Into Her Retirement Accounts</a></li>
</ul>

Personal Finance

Social Security's Lifeline: How Unauthorized Immigrants Help Fund Benefits For 68 Million Americans

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on Qualcomm.
Looking at options history for Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) we detected 23 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 39% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 39% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 9 are puts, for a total amount of $1,731,766 and 14, calls, for a total amount of $2,236,127.
<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 $135.0 to $230.0 for Qualcomm during the past quarter. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Qualcomm stands at 1220.89, with a total volume reaching 4,092.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Qualcomm, situated within the strike price corridor from $135.0 to $230.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Qualcomm Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737738028_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$10.9</td>
<td>$10.7</td>
<td>$10.8</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$1.1M</td>
<td>121</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$7.85</td>
<td>$7.65</td>
<td>$7.85</td>
<td>$230.00</td>
<td>$392.5K</td>
<td>819</td>
<td>501</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$38.8</td>
<td>$38.45</td>
<td>$38.45</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$384.5K</td>
<td>344</td>
<td>102</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$11.25</td>
<td>$11.2</td>
<td>$11.25</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$325.1K</td>
<td>363</td>
<td>289</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$27.05</td>
<td>$26.45</td>
<td>$27.05</td>
<td>$195.00</td>
<td>$316.4K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td>119</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Qualcomm</h3>
Qualcomm develops and licenses wireless technology and designs chips for smartphones. The company's key patents revolve around CDMA and OFDMA technologies, which are standards in wireless communications that are the backbone of all 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Qualcomm's IP is licensed by virtually all wireless device makers. The firm is also the world's largest wireless chip vendor, supplying nearly every premier handset maker with leading-edge processors. Qualcomm also sells RF-front end modules into smartphones, as well as chips into automotive and Internet of Things markets.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Qualcomm, 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 Qualcomm</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 2,016,273, the price of QCOM is down -0.15% at $174.09. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 12 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Qualcomm</h3>
Over the past month, 2 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $200.0.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Mizuho keeps a Outperform rating on Qualcomm with a target price of $215. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Barclays continues to hold a Overweight rating for Qualcomm, targeting a price of $185. 
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 Qualcomm with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

QCOM

Check Out What Whales Are Doing With QCOM

Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) is rallying amid a combination of improved scalability developments, accumulation by wallets connected to the Trump family and growing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/ethereum-eth-price-predictions">optimism among traders</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Price&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>Market Cap</td>
<td>24-Hour Trend</td>
<td>7-Day Trend</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>)</td>
<td>&nbsp;$3,390.73</td>
<td>$408.6 billion</td>
<td>+3.6%&nbsp;</td>
<td>-1.5%&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>&nbsp;$106,031.95</td>
<td>$2.1 trillion</td>
<td>+0.3%&nbsp;</td>
<td>+1.2%&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>)</td>
<td>&nbsp;$3.16</td>
<td>$181.9 billion</td>
<td>&nbsp;+0.09%</td>
<td>-2.8%&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Trader Notes: Trader Cold Blooded Shiller predicts Ethereum will hit $5,000 by March, noting the altcoin is breaking into new territory after months of consolidation.
Jelle highlighted a nearly four-year bullish pennant formation on Ethereum's chart, suggesting a breakout is imminent. 
He noted that with Trump-related wallets reportedly buying ETH heavily, it could signal insider confidence in Ethereum's long-term potential.  
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Nearly 4 years inside this massive bullish pennant and the local lows have all been swept. US Gov talking crypto stockpile, while the president keeps buying <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a> heavily. They know something we don&#39;t. Time for ETH to step back into the spotlights. <a href="https://t.co/0BK0TdcXdS">pic.twitter.com/0BK0TdcXdS</a>
&mdash; Jelle (@CryptoJelleNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoJelleNL/status/1882728449972068852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
CrediBULL Crypto emphasized the clean high-timeframe price action on ETH's chart, typically a precursor to significant reversals. He <a href="https://x.com/CredibleCrypto/status/1882656195351048216">projects</a> Ethereum reaching $10,000 minimum during this cycle, with $20,000 as a realistic target.
Statistics: IntoTheBlock data shows Ethereum's large transaction volume and daily active addresses increased by 21.4% and 0.9%, respectively, in single day. 
Exchanges netflows widened by 31.2%. Transactions greater than $100,000 increased from 7,327 to 9,413 in a day.
Coinglass data shows open interest spiked 5.9% to $32.8 billion, reaching almost all-time highs. Derivative trading volume expanded by 50.2%. 
Reports indicate Donald Trump's World Liberty Financial recently expanded its existing ETH holdings of 55,625 ETH, with a new purchase of 3,079 ETH, worth $10 million, bringing the total to over 58,000 ETH. 
Trump wallets are reportedly staking millions of ETH, a move seen as a strong endorsement of Ethereum's long-term value.
Community News: Ethereum's creator, Vitalik Buterin, announced initiatives to address challenges in both Layer-1 (L1) and Layer-2 (L2) scalability. Key proposals <a href="https://x.com/VitalikButerin/status/1882649065139384600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">include</a>:
<ul>
<li>More data blobs: Enhancing Ethereum's ability to handle higher throughput on the main chain.</li>
<li>Advancing L2s: Continuing to strengthen the technical and social frameworks for Layer-2 solutions.</li>
</ul>
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43187081/why-ethereum-now-offers-a-20-tactical-gain-10x-research">Why Ethereum Now Offers A 20% Tactical Gain: 10x Research</a></li>
</ul>

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

Cryptocurrency

$BTC

$ETH

$XRP

Is Ethereum Coming Back Thanks To Donald Trump? '$5,000 By March,' Trader Vows

Piper Sandler analyst James Fish reiterates Twilio (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TWLO#NYSE">TWLO</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $94 to $142.

Piper Sandler Reiterates Overweight on Twilio, Raises Price Target to $142

JP Morgan analyst Anthony Elian maintains Texas Capital Bancshares (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCBI#NASDAQ">TCBI</a>) with a Underweight and lowers the price target from $81 to $80.

TCBI

JP Morgan Maintains Underweight on Texas Capital Bancshares, Lowers Price Target to $80

AT&amp;T Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/T#NYSE">T</a>) disclosed that it completed a structured sale-leaseback of 74 underutilized central office properties with Reign Capital, generating <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/n43187394/at-t-announces-structured-sale-leaseback-of-real-estate-to-development-firm-reign-capital" rel="noreferrer noopener">over $850 million in upfront cash</a>.
The deal, covering 13 million square feet, also includes future profit-sharing from redevelopment opportunities.
The transaction aligns with AT&amp;T&#8217;s strategy to exit most legacy copper network operations by 2029 while optimizing capital allocation.
By leasing only necessary space, the company streamlines its real estate footprint while maintaining exclusive control over critical infrastructure.
Notably, earlier in 2021, AT&amp;T also executed a similar transaction with Reign Capital.
Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931807/t-mobile-sued-over-massive-data-breach-impacting-79-million-americans-sensitive-information-included-names-addresses-and-more" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T-Mobile Sued Over Massive Data Breach Impacting 79 Million Americans: Sensitive Information Included Names, Addresses, And More</a>
That deal comprised 13 properties covering over 3 million square feet and generated over $300 million in upfront cash. Initial redevelopment revenue generation is projected to begin in 2025.
Last month, AT&amp;T partnered with JobsOhio to build a fiber network providing high-speed internet to all 14,000 residents and businesses in East Cleveland. The city is investing $1 million, with additional support <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/g42535039/at-t-and-jobsohio-partner-to-bring-high-speed-fiber-broadband-internet-to-residents-and-businesses" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">from a $1.9 million JobsOhio OSIP grant</a>.
The Dallas-based company plans to release its fourth-quarter <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings">2024 results on Jan. 27</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;iShares U.S. Telecommunications ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYZ#BATS">IYZ</a>) and WBI Power Factor High Dividend ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBIY#NYSE">WBIY</a>).
Price Action: T shares are up 0.64% at $22.67 at the last check Friday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/43094314/telecom-titans-comparing-verizon-and-at-amp-t-for-growth-potential" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Telecom Titans: Comparing Verizon and AT&amp;T for Growth Potential</a></li>
</ul>

Large Cap

Asset Sales

iShares Dow Jones US Telecommunications Sector Index Fund

WBIY

AT&T Nets $850 Million In Sale-Leaseback Deal As Part Of Copper Network Exit

Piper Sandler analyst Adam Maeder reiterates Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ISRG#NASDAQ">ISRG</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $538 to $670.

ISRG

Piper Sandler Reiterates Overweight on Intuitive Surgical, Raises Price Target to $670

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) is seeing relatively quiet trading on Friday following <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43172028/electronic-arts-has-limited-growth-potential-says-analyst">a sharp selloff</a> triggered by a downward revision in its Q3 revenue guidance. 
The gaming giant slashed its revenue forecast to $1.883 billion from the previous estimate of $2.507 billion, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">according to Benzinga Pro</a>, while maintaining its earnings outlook at $1.11 per share.
The selloff may have been an overreaction.
If sales drop but earnings don't, it could be a sign that the company is becoming more efficient. This is one of the reasons why Electronic Arts is Benzinga&#8217;s Stock of the Day.
Operating Margin is a metric that shows how efficient a company is. For example, if the margin is 2%, for every dollar of sales there is a 2 cent profit. If the margin is 5%, for every dollar of sales there is a 5 cent profit and so on.
If sales are decreasing but earnings are the same, the operating margin will increase. It could mean the company is becoming more efficient. This might be bullish for the long term.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43190630/american-express-q4-record-spending-and-card-acquisitions-9-topline-growth-17-dividend-hike">American Express Q4 Earnings: Revenue Beat, Record Spending and Card Acquisitions, 17% Dividend Hike And More</a>
There may also have been a possible capitulation in Electronic Arts. As you can see on the chart, a huge amount of volume traded after the company announced the news.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="554" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24112608/ea-chart-1024x554.png" alt="" class="wp-image-749075" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24112608/ea-chart-1024x554.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24112608/ea-chart-300x162.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24112608/ea-chart-768x416.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24112608/ea-chart.png 1510w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
This could mean the sellers have thrown in the towel. Traders and investors who wanted to sell got sick of watching the price drop and decided to sell their shares regardless of the price. This resulted in a massive spike in volume.
If the news isn't as bad as it first appeared and buyers enter the market, they will have difficulty finding someone to purchase the shares from. They will need to outbid others who wish to buy and pay premiums.
This could force the stock into an uptrend.
Electronic Arts also found support at a price that had been support before. Some of the traders and investors who sold shares around current levels in September 2023 vowed to repurchase them after the price rallied, assuming they could buy them for the same price they were sold for.
Now that the stock has fallen back to the level, they are placing buy orders. These orders have created support and put a floor under the price.
The stage may be set for Electronic Arts to move higher.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43189195/higher-yields-less-liquidity-market-uncertainty-how-can-bank-of-japans-u-turn-from-historically-low-interest-rates-impact-us-market">How Bank Of Japan&#8217;s Shift From Historically Low Interest Rates Impacts US Markets: Higher Yields, Less Liquidity, Market Uncertainty And More</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Gaming

Technicals

Stock Of The Day: EA's Selloff May Open Doors For Long-Term Rebound

JP Morgan analyst Yuri Fernandes maintains Inter &amp; Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTR#NASDAQ">INTR</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $7.2 to $7.1.

INTR

JP Morgan Maintains Overweight on Inter & Co, Lowers Price Target to $7.1

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="574" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24163942/image-1-1024x574.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-4932" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24163942/image-1-1024x574.jpeg 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24163942/image-1-300x168.jpeg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24163942/image-1-768x431.jpeg 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/24163942/image-1.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Replacing Humans With AI Agents</h4>
An enlarged chart of SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) which represents the benchmark stock market index S&amp;P 500 (SPX).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>The chart shows that the market is breaking out above the micro resistance zone.</li>
<li>The trigger for the breakout was Trump's speech for Davos.</li>
<li>The chart shows that the breakout is tenuous. A stronger breakout would have been more convincing.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The chart shows the volume was low indicating a lack of conviction.</li>
<li>RSI on the chart shows that the market is very overbought.&nbsp; Overbought markets tend to be vulnerable to a pull back.&nbsp;</li>
<li>So far, since the inauguration of a new president, S&amp;P 500 is having its best start since 1985.&nbsp; In 1985 Ronald Reagan was inaugurated.&nbsp; When Ronald Reagan was elected, there were a lot of concerns about his conservative and somewhat radical policies.&nbsp; Historians tell us that Reagan went on to become one of the most successful presidents in US history.&nbsp; The stock market under Reagan did extremely well, even though it included the 1987 stock market crash.&nbsp; In the 1987 crash, the stock market lost 20.47% in one day.</li>
<li>In The Arora Report analysis, the future course of the market will depend on Trump's statements.&nbsp; This morning there is relief that Trump has changed his stance and is now saying he would rather not impose tariffs on China.&nbsp; It is not only Trump's statements but also the rumors about what Trump may say that are moving the market.</li>
<li>Prudent investors should note that at this time when China and other nations are making great strides in developing digital currencies controlled by their central banks, Trump has issued an executive order to ban digital dollar.&nbsp; Presumably, the objective is to benefit cryptos at the expense of the dollar.
<ul>
<li>Please be extra careful, if you are trading new cryptos.&nbsp; Since Trump's inauguration there has been a flood of fake cryptos that have achieved very large valuations.&nbsp; Such cryptos are worth zero.&nbsp; Manipulators and pumpers are having a heyday.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Artificial intelligence is taking another step forward.&nbsp; OpenAI has introduced Operator.&nbsp; Operator is an AI agent that has its own browser and can perform web related tasks autonomously.&nbsp; This is a big step forward to replace a large number of humans doing such tasks at present with AI agents.&nbsp; AI agents present numerous investing opportunities both from the long side and the short side.</li>
</ul>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Japan</h4>
Bank of Japan (BOJ) has announced the biggest rate hike in 18 years.&nbsp; You may recall the big drop in the stock market in August of 2024 when the carry trade blew up in anticipation of rate hikes by the Bank of Japan.&nbsp; This time, at least for the short term, it is all calm due to the Trump effect.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h4>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in Apple Inc, Tesla Inc, and Alphabet Inc Class C.
In the early trade, money flows are negative in Meta Platforms Inc, Amazon.com, Inc., NVIDIA Corp, and Microsoft Corp.
In the early trade, money flows are negative in S&amp;P 500 ETF (SPY) and in Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h4>
Investors can gain an edge by knowing money flows in SPY and QQQ.  Investors can get a bigger edge by knowing when smart money is buying stocks, gold, and oil.  The most popular ETF for gold is SPDR Gold Trust.  The most popular ETF for silver is iShares Silver Trust.  The most popular ETF for oil is United States Oil ETF.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin</h4>
Trump has announced a working group to evaluate buying cryptos as a strategic reserve.&nbsp; Initially, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) fell on disappointment that Trump did not announce a strategic reserve — to bitcoin bulls, there is nothing to evaluate.&nbsp; The dip was aggressively bought.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Protection Band And What To Do Now</h4>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.&nbsp; The proprietary protection band from The Arora Report is very popular.&nbsp; The protection band puts all of the data, all of the indicators, all of the news, all of the crosscurrents, all of the models, and all of the analysis in an analytical framework that is easily actionable by investors.&nbsp;
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp; The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
A protection band of 0% would be very bullish and would indicate full investment with 0% in cash.&nbsp; A protection band of 100% would be very bearish and would indicate a need for aggressive protection with cash and hedges or aggressive short selling.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp; When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h4>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of five year duration or less.&nbsp; Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever <a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter-benzinga">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.

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Piper Sandler analyst Stephen Scouten maintains Origin Bancorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OBK#NYSE">OBK</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $35 to $42.

Piper Sandler Maintains Neutral on Origin Bancorp, Raises Price Target to $42

JP Morgan analyst Brian Ossenbeck maintains CSX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSX#NASDAQ">CSX</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $38 to $37.

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