Taoping (NASDAQ:TAOP) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Taoping

Taoping Inc is a provider of cloud-app technologies for smart city IoT platforms, digital advertising delivery, and other internet-based information distribution systems in China. Its operating segment includes Cloud-based Technology (CBT), Blockchain Technology (BT), and Traditional Information Technology (TIT). It generates maximum revenue from the CBT segment. CBT segment includes cloud-based products and services offered to customers in the private sector including new media, healthcare, education, and residential community management.

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Shares of  Skillsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: SKIL) fell sharply during Tuesday’s session after the company reported mixed fourth-quarter financial results and issued FY25 revenue guidance below estimates.

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Shares of CommScope Holding Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: COMM) fell sharply during Monday’s session.

B of A Securities analyst Tal Liani downgraded CommScope from Neutral to Underperform and lowered the price target from $2.1 to $2.

CommScope shares dipped 6.9% to $2.2150 on Monday.

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Taoping Inc

<a href="https://gain.inl.gov/gain-announces-fourth-round-fy-2024-nuclear-energy-voucher-recipients/" title="https://gain.inl.gov/gain-announces-fourth-round-fy-2024-nuclear-energy-voucher-recipients/">https://gain.inl.gov/gain-announces-fourth-round-fy-2024-nuclear-energy-voucher-recipients/</a>

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Serve Robotics (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/serv#NASDAQ">SERV</a>) shares have surged 9.9% in the past week, outperforming the Zacks Computer &amp; Technology sector&#39;s gain of 2.3% and the Zacks IT Services industry&#39;s return of 2%.
Shares of this AI-powered last-mile robot delivery service provider saw significant volatility since its public equity offering on April 18, from when it started trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker &quot;SERV.&quot; Since then, SERV shares have jumped 153.2%.
SERV&#39;s long-term prospects ride on growing demand for last-mile delivery of food and other items on partner platforms that include Uber Eats and 7-Eleven. The company, which was spun off from Uber Technologies (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/uber#NYSE">UBER</a>) in 2021, counts NVIDIA, Uber, 7-Ventures and Delivery Hero&#39;s corporate venture units as its strategic investors.
The surge in SERV shares brings a couple of questions into investors&#39; minds - is this momentum going to last for SERV, and whether this is the right time to jump into the stock?
<h2>SERV Shares Beat Sector Past Week</h2>
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/89/78982.jpg?v=933828967" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Let&#39;s dig deep to find out.
<h2>Strong Last-Mile Delivery Prospects Aids SERV</h2>
SERV reported revenues of $0.47 million, significantly better than the $0.06 million reported in the year-ago quarter. It saw an 80% jump in second-quarter delivery and branding revenues. Daily Supply Hours surged 28% sequentially.
SERV&#39;s expanding robotics offering is expected to improve its competitive position in the last-mile delivery space currently dominated by the likes of DoorDash and Amazon.
Serve Robotics&#39; expanding partner base that includes Shake Shack (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/shak#NYSE">SHAK</a>), Ouster and Magna are noteworthy. In June 2024, SERV announced the expansion of its delivery operations into Koreatown and began onboarding new local merchants through its partnership with Uber Eats. Its latest partnership with SHAK expands SERV&#39;s footprint in Los Angeles.
Magna has become a contract manufacturer for SERV&#39;s technology, and the first robots are expected to roll off the production line by the end of the fourth quarter of 2024.
Serve Robotics believes robots have the potential to reduce the average delivery cost to under $1, lower than the delivery cost by human couriers currently, making on-demand delivery more affordable and accessible in the areas in which it operates.
Per the ARK Invest report, the potential market for food and parcel delivery by robots and drones is expected to hit $450 billion globally in 2030.
Serve Robotics expects to deploy 250 robots by the end of the first quarter of 2025 in Los Angeles. Other cities that include its expansion plan are San Diego, Dallas and Vancouver.
<h2>Strong Liquidity to Boost SERV&#39;s Prospects</h2>
SERV&#39;s strong liquidity position is expected to help it execute its long-term strategic plan that includes the deployment of 2000 robots across the United States in 2025. It has already completed the design phase for the third-generation robot.
Serve Robotics generated $35.8 million in gross proceeds from the successful public equity offering and $15 million from a private placement.
As of June 30, 2024, SERV had cash and cash equivalents of $28.8 million. Most recently, it raised another $20 million.
<h2>Is SERV Stock a Buy?</h2>
Technical indicator is bearish for SERV as the shares are trading below the 50-day moving average.
<h2>SERV Trades Below 50-Day SMA</h2>
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/ea/78983.jpg?v=447415697" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SERV&#39;s 2024 loss has shown improvement as the figure is now expected to be a loss of 85 cents, a penny narrower over the past 60 days.&nbsp;
<div class="chart_embed">
<h2>Serve Robotics Inc. Price and Consensus</h2>
<img alt="Serve Robotics Inc. Price and Consensus" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/fb/1727182243.png" style="height:268px; width:572px" title="" />
Serve Robotics Inc. price-consensus-chart | Serve Robotics Inc. Quote
Moreover, SERV stock is overvalued at this current moment, as suggested by the Value Score of F.
SERV&#39;s revenue decline on a sequential basis in the second quarter of 2024 has been a concern. It suffers from customer concentration, with one customer accounting for 74% of accounts receivable as of June 30, 2024.
Nevertheless, SERV&#39;s expanding robotics fleet bodes well for long-term investors. Hence, investors who already own the stock may expect the company&#39;s growth prospects to be rewarding over the long term.
Serve Robotics currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), suggesting that it may be wise to enter the stock at this moment.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2340635/serve-robotics-rises-10-in-a-week-should-you-buy-serv-stock?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|most_popular_stocks-2340635">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>
</div>

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Serve Robotics Rises 10% in a Week: Should You Buy SERV Stock?

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on D.R. Horton.
Looking at options history for D.R. Horton (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DHI#NYSE">DHI</a>) we detected 9 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 44% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 55% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 7 are puts, for a total amount of $429,031 and 2, calls, for a total amount of $178,878.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $120.0 and $200.0 for D.R. Horton, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for D.R. Horton's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of D.R. Horton's whale trades within a strike price range from $120.0 to $200.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>D.R. Horton 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727203555_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 style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DHI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$84.5</td>
<td>$79.8</td>
<td>$81.21</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$146.1K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">381</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DHI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$14.2</td>
<td>$13.9</td>
<td>$13.99</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$80.7K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">576</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">292</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DHI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$14.2</td>
<td>$13.9</td>
<td>$13.98</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$76.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">576</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">234</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DHI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$14.2</td>
<td>$13.9</td>
<td>$14.11</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$70.7K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">576</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">101</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DHI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$14.1</td>
<td>$13.9</td>
<td>$14.1</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$70.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">576</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">151</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About D.R. Horton</h3>
D.R. Horton is a leading homebuilder in the United States with operations in 118 markets across 33 states. D.R. Horton mainly builds single-family detached homes (over 90% of home sales revenue) and offers products to entry-level, move-up, luxury buyers, and active adults. The company offers homebuyers mortgage financing and title agency services through its financial services segment. D.R. Horton's headquarters are in Arlington, Texas, and it manages six regional segments across the United States.
In light of the recent options history for D.R. Horton, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Where Is D.R. Horton Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 732,536, the price of DHI is down by -1.18%, reaching $191.19.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 35 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About D.R. Horton</h3>
2 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $217.5.
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; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from B of A Securities continues to hold a Buy rating for D.R. Horton, targeting a price of $215. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Wells Fargo has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on D.R. Horton, which currently sits at a price target of $220. 
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 D.R. Horton, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

Market Whales and Their Recent Bets on DHI Options

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</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 ULTA, 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 13 uncommon options trades for Ulta Beauty.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 30% bullish and 53%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 6 are puts, for a total amount of $303,919, and 7 are calls, for a total amount of $353,361.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $280.0 to $415.0 for Ulta Beauty over the recent 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 Ulta Beauty's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Ulta Beauty's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $280.0 to $415.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Ulta Beauty Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727203550_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 style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$8.1</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$415.00</td>
<td>$95.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">707</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">172</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
<td>$90.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">91</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">164</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/27/24</td>
<td>$10.0</td>
<td>$7.1</td>
<td>$7.15</td>
<td>$395.00</td>
<td>$54.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">265</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">185</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/27/24</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$5.4</td>
<td>$5.4</td>
<td>$395.00</td>
<td>$54.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">265</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">101</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$8.1</td>
<td>$8.1</td>
<td>$8.1</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
<td>$53.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">837</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">88</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Ulta Beauty</h3>
With 1,385 stores at the end of fiscal 2023 and a partnership with Target, Ulta Beauty is the largest specialized beauty retailer in the US. The firm offers makeup (41% of 2023 sales), fragrances, skin care (19% of sales), and hair care products (19% of sales), and bath and body items. Ulta offers private-label products and merchandise from more than 500 vendors. It also offers salon services, including hair, makeup, skin, and brow services, in all stores. Most Ulta stores are approximately 10,000 square feet and are in suburban strip centers. Ulta was founded in 1990 and is based in Bolingbrook, Illinois.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Ulta Beauty, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of Ulta Beauty</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 607,763, with ULTA's price up by 1.69%, positioned at $400.5.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 66 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Ulta Beauty</h3>
5 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $433.0.
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>. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Telsey Advisory Group continues to hold a Outperform rating for Ulta Beauty, targeting a price of $500. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from TD Cowen continues to hold a Buy rating for Ulta Beauty, targeting a price of $395. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Stifel has decided to maintain their Hold rating on Ulta Beauty, which currently sits at a price target of $385. 
&#x2A; An analyst from B of A Securities persists with their Neutral rating on Ulta Beauty, maintaining a target price of $380. 
&#x2A; An analyst from UBS persists with their Buy rating on Ulta Beauty, maintaining a target price of $505. 
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 Ulta Beauty with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

ULTA

Spotlight on Ulta Beauty: Analyzing the Surge in Options Activity

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on PayPal Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NASDAQ">PYPL</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 PYPL, 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 42 uncommon options trades for PayPal Holdings.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 50% bullish and 38%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 6 are puts, for a total amount of $404,520, and 36 are calls, for a total amount of $1,894,150.
<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 $47.5 to $105.0 for PayPal Holdings during the past quarter. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of PayPal Holdings stands at 4661.0, with a total volume reaching 21,722.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in PayPal Holdings, situated within the strike price corridor from $47.5 to $105.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>PayPal Holdings Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727203545_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>PYPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$1.7</td>
<td>$1.68</td>
<td>$1.7</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$408.0K</td>
<td>9.3K</td>
<td>4.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PYPL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$27.7</td>
<td>$27.65</td>
<td>$27.7</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$138.5K</td>
<td>172</td>
<td>50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PYPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$6.65</td>
<td>$6.55</td>
<td>$6.58</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$131.0K</td>
<td>4.5K</td>
<td>217</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PYPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$5.85</td>
<td>$5.85</td>
<td>$5.85</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$101.2K</td>
<td>22.0K</td>
<td>266</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PYPL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$19.0</td>
<td>$17.6</td>
<td>$17.65</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$88.2K</td>
<td>162</td>
<td>51</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About PayPal Holdings</h3>
PayPal was spun off from eBay in 2015 and provides electronic payment solutions to merchants and consumers, with a focus on online transactions. The company had 426 million active accounts at the end of 2023. The company also owns Venmo, a person-to-person payment platform.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with PayPal Holdings, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of PayPal Holdings</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 7,746,092, the PYPL's price is up by 0.7%, now at $78.21. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 36 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On PayPal Holdings</h3>
In the last month, 3 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $80.33333333333333.
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&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods continues to hold a Outperform rating for PayPal Holdings, targeting a price of $78. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Goldman Sachs keeps a Neutral rating on PayPal Holdings with a target price of $69. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Deutsche Bank keeps a Buy rating on PayPal Holdings with a target price of $94. 
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PYPL

PayPal Holdings Unusual Options Activity For September 24

Piper Sandler analyst Brent Bracelin upgraded Salesforce Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRM#NYSE">CRM</a>) from Neutral to Overweight and raised the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRM/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target from&nbsp;$268&nbsp;to&nbsp;$325</a>.
The re-rating reflects a favorable risk-reward given the potential for free cash flow per share to double to $20+ by fiscal 2029 (calendar 2028) from $9.65 in fiscal 2024 (calendar 2023), even if top-line growth remains at subdued levels of 8%-9%.
Bracelin flagged that Salesforce also has the lowest valuation multiple relative to large-cap software peers on an Enterprise Value-to-Sales, Enterprise Value-to-Free Cash Flow, and Price-to-Earnings basis.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40910569/nvidia-salesforce-announce-strategic-ai-collaboration-what-to-know" rel="noreferrer noopener">NVIDIA, Salesforce Announce Strategic AI Collaboration: What To Know</a>
Discussions last week with the leadership team, partners, and customers gave the analyst confidence that new pricing and packaging could broaden multi-cloud adoption.
The promise of Agentforce powered by the Atlas Reasoning Engine paired with Data Cloud could help stabilize demand and drive a recovery entering calendar 2026 (fiscal 2027).
Bracelin raised estimates using a target EV/FCF of 23x (versus 22x prior) and a 14% discount rate (16% prior).
Bracelin noted that the combination of free multi-cloud options via the new Foundations suite for existing Sales or Service cloud customers and the 52% ARPU uplift to Einstein 1 versus Unlimited could be crucial in sparking a growth recovery from calendar 2025 (fiscal 2026) to calendar 2026 (fiscal 2027).
The analyst flagged that Salesforce has historically provided new platform updates three times per year. However, the pace of AI has changed this cadence, most notably within Data Cloud, where new platform updates are released monthly.
Salesforce chief Marc Benioff and team are operating in &#8220;founder mode&#8221; with the accelerated pace of internal product execution, supported by veteran boomerangs and new management add that bring strong backgrounds from Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Amazon Web Service, Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google, Oracle Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), and more Bracelin highlighted.
Years of manual Trailblazer developer work building Flows and Apex Actions have turned into a strategic advantage, according to the analyst. He added that these can be repurposed to provide critical guard rails to power agents via the Atlas Reasoning Engine paired with Data Cloud.
Further margin leverage and buybacks could sustain low double-digit free cash flow growth per share for the next 3-5 years. CRM shares could benefit from earnings and multiple expansions, as per Bracelin.
Bracelin projects third-quarter revenue of $9.34 billion and EPS of $2.43.
Price Action: CRM stock is up 1.35% at $267.67 at the last check on Tuesday.
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40901921/salesforce-unveils-new-agentforce-partner-network-partners-with-google-cloud" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salesforce Unveils New Agentforce Partner Network, Partners With Google Cloud</a></li>
</ul>
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Tech

AMZN

GOOG

GOOGL

MSFT

ORCL

Salesforce's Free Cash Flow Could Double by 2029 Amid AI Push, Analyst Says While Upgrading Stock

Cyngn shares are trading higher after the company announced the first build of its next-generation 12,000 lb drivemod tugger has been successfully completed at the facility of its OEM partner.

Governor <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/gavin-newsom">Gavin Newsom</a>&#8216;s emergency ban on all hemp-derived THC products is official as of Monday afternoon, following the Office of Administrative Law&#8217;s approval.
This ban halts the sale of hemp products, including popular items like hemp-THC beverages and medicinal CBD products, throughout California. The regulatory action was <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/hemp-thc-ban-approved-19787429.php">confirmed</a> by SFGATE.
Newsom justified the ban, stating that the previous regulations allowed underage youth access to intoxicating hemp-derived THC products. However, critics argue that this move bypasses a more measured, democratic process and could have unintended consequences for patients and the hemp industry at large.
Previously, California's Assembly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40431822/california-rejects-proposed-regulations-on-hemp-the-industry-celebrates-for-now">rejected similar legislation</a> (AB 2223) after strong opposition from the hemp industry. While the Assembly's decision was hailed as a win, Newsom's executive order has now enforced the ban.
<ul>
<li>Get Benzinga&#8217;s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. You can't afford to miss out if you&#8217;re serious about the business.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hemp Ban: Consequences</h3>
On September 16 the Hemp Roundtable made public a document presented to the Office of Administrative Law of California, signed by Attorneys at Frost Brown Todd in which they objected the measure. According to the statement the regulations would eliminate up to 90-95% of hemp products currently available. Farmers, manufacturers and retailers face immense financial losses as they are forced to shutter operations or relocate production outside California.
The ruling also includes a ban on manufacturing and selling hemp-THC products intended for sale outside California. This broad scope threatens the entire national supply chain, raising concerns over state overreach and violations of interstate commerce laws​. This will probably lead to a judicial dispute of the emergency ruling.
Recently, an expert economist made a forecast for hemp acreage nationwide that includes a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40715126/expert-economist-slashes-hemp-acreage-forecast-by-82-for-2030-heres-why">82% reduction</a> from previous estimations, which aligns with the projections of damage taken by the hemp complex as a whole.
<div data-wp-interactive="core/file" class="wp-block-file">
<object data-wp-bind--hidden="!state.hasPdfPreview" class="wp-block-file__embed" data="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/24122602/Final-Written-Comments-Opposing-Proposed-Emergency-Regulations-9.16.2024-signed-4863-4205-4373.1.pdf" type="application/pdf" style="width:100%;height:200px" aria-label="Embed of Final-Written-Comments-Opposing-Proposed-Emergency-Regulations-9.16.2024-signed-4863-4205-4373.1."></object><a id="wp-block-file--media-d0c293de-28ef-4c4a-b9b4-a59b6f539280" href="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/24122602/Final-Written-Comments-Opposing-Proposed-Emergency-Regulations-9.16.2024-signed-4863-4205-4373.1.pdf">Final-Written-Comments-Opposing-Proposed-Emergency-Regulations-9.16.2024-signed-4863-4205-4373.1</a><a href="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/24122602/Final-Written-Comments-Opposing-Proposed-Emergency-Regulations-9.16.2024-signed-4863-4205-4373.1.pdf" class="wp-block-file__button wp-element-button" download aria-describedby="wp-block-file--media-d0c293de-28ef-4c4a-b9b4-a59b6f539280">Download</a></div>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Investor Impact</h3>
For investors, the ban creates a wave of uncertainty. 
Many of California's hemp companies rely on a booming market for hemp-derived products. Small and mid-sized California companies <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40465710/why-are-so-many-california-cannabis-companies-switching-to-hemp-products">were shifting </a>from Cannabis to hemp due to the advantages that a less regulated and taxed environment. This change in the market structure for cannabis products will probable stop and businesses looking for alternative solutions or seeking to mitigate losses will likely need to restructure their offerings or face severe revenue losses.
The situation is <a href="https://dealtracker.viridianca.com/viridian-deal-tracker/sector_deal_tracker/?utm_source=newsletteremail.benzinga.com&amp;utm_medium=newsletter&amp;utm_campaign=hemp-sector-investor-exodus-what-s-behind-the-rush&amp;_bhlid=56c88b0d42d3a13a6b824969d94134c4a88bb3bb">provoking an exodus</a> from hemp assets exposure among financial investors.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40906131/this-is-life-or-death-families-of-disabled-children-panic-over-gov-newsoms-hemp-cbd-ban-and-eval">&#8216;This Is Life Or Death&#8217;: Families Of Disabled Children Panic Over Gov. Newsom&#8217;s Hemp CBD Ban And Evaluate Lawsuit</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Patient Concerns</h3>
Perhaps the most vocal opposition to the ban comes from medical patients and their families. 
According to a group of California parents with children suffering from chronic illnesses, this regulation could eliminate access to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40906131/this-is-life-or-death-families-of-disabled-children-panic-over-gov-newsoms-hemp-cbd-ban-and-eval">life-saving treatments</a>. Families are also evaluating legal action against the state, citing that the ban not only impacts synthetic THC products but also vital full-spectrum CBD products that many rely on for conditions like epilepsy​. Parents of affected children have been panic buying hemp derivatives to avoid interruption of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39783547/physician-condemns-californias-confusing-hemp-regulations-impacting-pediatric-cbd-for-seizure-tr">treatments</a>.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Impact On Organic Products</h3>
Co-founder of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/09/34770911/cornbread-hemp-acquires-its-manufacturing-partner-launches-new-cbd-pricing-scheme">Cornbread Hemp</a>, a company specialized in High Quality CBD products, Jim Higdon, reacted to the ban.
&#8220;The California cannabis market is undergoing a credibility crisis amid rampant pesticide contamination, and Gov Newsom just banned access to USDA organic hemp products, forcing California residents to take their chances in California dispensaries&#8221; 
Higdon highlighted a contradiction in a e-mail exchange with Benzinga Cannabis, saying &#8220;How can Governor Newsom claim to be protecting consumer safety with an order that bans USDA organic hemp products?&#8221;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">So Far&#8230; So Good?</h3>
California&#8217;s government is showing determination in moving forward with the ban on hemp, despite the messy impacts. While the emergency regulations remain in effect until March 25, 2025, the hemp industry and advocates are pushing back, suggesting a lengthy conflict ahead.
<ul>
<li>Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40989988/exclusive-inside-the-amazon-of-weed-helping-400-cannabis-brands-save-and-grow-in-regulatory-maze">EXCLUSIVE: Inside The Amazon Of Weed, Helping 400 Cannabis Brands Save And Grow In Regulatory Maze</a></li>
</ul>
Cover: Courtesy of Governor Newsom&#8217;s Office

Cannabis

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Gov. Newsom's Hemp Ban Goes Into Effect: Consequences For Industry, Investors, Patients

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IAM Workers Existing Contract With Textron Expired Sept. 22

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Shares of gold companies are trading higher after the price of the commodity reached all-time highs following last week's Fed rate cut.

Macro Economic Events

Economics

Gold is trading higher following the Fed's recent rate cut.

<a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/covid19-industry/drugs-vaccines-treatments/vaccines/novavax.html" title="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/covid19-industry/drugs-vaccines-treatments/vaccines/novavax.html">https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/covid19-industry/drugs-vaccines-treatments/vaccines/novavax.html</a>

NVAX

Reported September 23; Health Canada Approves Novavax Nuvaxovid And XBB.1.5 Omicron Subvariant COVID-19 Vaccines For Primary And Booster Doses

On Tuesday, artificial intelligence server company Super Micro Computer, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) added new maximum-performance GPU, multi-node, and rackmount systems to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/n41007202/supermicro-adds-new-max-performance-intel-based-x14-servers-delivering-the-industrys-broadest-rang" rel="noreferrer noopener">the X14 portfolio</a>.
These systems are based on Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) Xeon 6900 Series Processors with P-Cores (formerly codenamed Granite Rapids-AP).
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/24121828/newplot-20.png" alt="" class="wp-image-563711" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/24121828/newplot-20.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/24121828/newplot-20-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
Joining the X14 servers leveraging the Xeon 6700 Series Processors with E-cores launched in&nbsp;June 2024, today&#8217;s additions aim to create the industry&#8217;s broadest range of optimized servers supporting a wide variety of workloads from demanding AI, HPC, media, and virtualization to energy-efficient edge, scale-out cloud-native, and microservices applications.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40897994/whats-going-on-with-intel-stock-on-tuesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intel Secures Major Amazon Chip Deal, U.S. Grant Amid Restructuring Plans</a>
&#8220;Supermicro X14 systems have been completely re-engineered to support the latest technologies including next-generation CPUs, GPUs, highest bandwidth and lowest latency with MRDIMMs, PCIe 5.0, and EDSFF E1.S and E3.S storage,&#8221; said&nbsp;Charles Liang, president and CEO of Supermicro.
Supermicro&#8217;s new X14 systems will also offer socket compatibility with the upcoming Intel Xeon 6900 series processors with E-cores and Intel Xeon 6700 series processors with P-cores.
Last week, Needham&nbsp;analyst Quinn Bolton hailed Super Micro as a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40926422/super-micro-poised-for-expansion-as-gross-margin-concerns-ease-internal-control-risks-priced-in-anal" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant beneficiary of</a> growing investment in AI infrastructure, a first mover in rack-level liquid cooling solutions. He forecasted a revenue CAGR of over 55% from fiscal 2021 to fiscal 2026.
Super Micro Computer stock is up over 89% in the last 12 months. Bolton expects most of the risk associated with the review of its internal controls as priced in. Investors can gain exposure to the AI server company through Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOT#NYSE">VOT</a>) and SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Technology (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>).
Price Action:&nbsp;SMCI stock is down 0.25% at $464.77 at the last check on Tuesday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40996401/intel-which-cratered-around-77-from-its-52-week-peak-finds-a-new-knight-in-shining-armor-as-qual" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intel, Which Cratered Around 77% From Its 52-Week Peak, Finds A New Knight In Shining Armor As Qualcomm And Apollo Propose Buyout Deal, But This Analyst Thinks It Doesn&#8217;t Make Sense: &#8216;It Seems Very Risky To Us Given Uncertain Returns&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Company

INTC

SMCI

Super Micro Unveils Next-Gen Servers Powered by Intel's Latest Xeon Chips

Particle Health Inc. <a href="https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/legaldocs/akveodjmyvr/particle%20v%20epic%20-%20complaint%20-%2020240923.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sued</a> Epic Systems Corporation, alleging that the software firm is attempting to use its power over electronic health records (EHRs) to expand its dominance into the fledgling <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/software">market for &#8220;payer platforms.&#8221;</a>
Epic&#8217;s EHR system controls over three-quarters of U.S. patient records. The company has leveraged its vast market power to extend its influence into the emerging payer platform market.
In 2021, Epic launched the Epic Payer Platform (EPP), which quickly gained market dominance. The lawsuit claims that competitors could not gain ground.
Epic allegedly made it commercially impossible for rival platforms to access medical records stored in its EHR system.
As a result, competing platforms could not function effectively.
A turning point came in 2023 when Particle Health entered the market by leveraging a shift in payer operations.
Particle found a way to access medical records through centralized exchange networks, offering an alternative to Epic&#8217;s monopoly. 
Epic allegedly cut off access to records for Particle&#8217;s customers, coercing them into ending their relationships with Particle and deliberately slowing down the approval process for new clients.
Epic&#8217;s efforts extended further, with allegations that it made false claims about the security and privacy risks associated with Particle. 
Particle says the claims damaged its credibility and hindered its ability to secure new business.
Epic also initiated a formal dispute with Particle through Carequality, a nonprofit overseeing data-sharing frameworks in healthcare.
The drawn-out dispute process and denial of record access have reportedly drained Particle&#8217;s resources, severely limiting its capacity to compete.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/41010971/kbr-lands-113m-air-force-deal-to-drive-next-gen-refueling-systems-and-cybersecurity-innovation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KBR Lands $113M Air Force Deal To Drive Next-Gen Refueling Systems And Cybersecurity Innovation</a>.</li>
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Health Care

Healthcare Software Giant Epic Systems Hit With Lawsuit Over Alleged Monopolistic Practices

Shares of credit card and payment stocks are trading lower. The sector may be under pressure. Some payments stocks may also be down after Global Payments issued soft guidance.

Better pricing, prudent underwriting, increased exposure and faster economic recovery should help Multiline insurers to grow. The industry has returned 17.7% year to date compared with the Finance sector&#39;s growth of 15.3%. The Zacks S&amp;P 500 composite has witnessed an increase of 19.6% in the said time frame. Product diversification helps insurance industry players lower concentration risk and improve retention ratio.
<h2>YTD Performance</h2>
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/4a/78960.jpg?v=1188445588" /> 
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Accelerated digitalization will help the industry function smoothly. An improving rate environment should drive investment income higher as insurers are beneficiaries of a better rate environment.
Here we focus on two multiline insurers, namely Assurant, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aiz#NYSE">AIZ</a>) and Old Republic International Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ori#NYSE">ORI</a>).
Assurant, with a market capitalization of $10.26 billion, provides business services that support, protect and connect consumer purchases in North America, Latin America, Europe and the Asia Pacific. Old Republic International, with a market capitalization of $9.21 billion, through its subsidiaries, engages in the insurance underwriting and related services business primarily in the United States and Canada. AIZ and ORI carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) each at present.
Multiline insurers benefit from a diversified portfolio that lowers concentration risk. While higher demand for protection products benefits sales and premiums of life insurance operations, better pricing and increased exposure to intangibles and cyber threats support premium growth of non-life insurance operations.
Also, per Deloitte Insights, the transition to green energy and related insurance products, as well as exposure to intangible assets, offers growth opportunities. Per a report in Carrier Management, AM Best expects profitable commercial lines and improving personal lines in 2024. Swiss Re estimates high single-digit premium growth in 2024.
Insurers are direct beneficiaries of a rising rate environment. They invest a portion of their premiums. Long-tail insurers tend to gain more from rising rates as they have more time to invest their premiums and earn a higher rate of return. With a lower rate of return, investment income will suffer. In the FOMC meeting, the Federal Reserve announced cutting the interest rate by 50 basis points. This is the first time in four years that the central bank has taken such an action. The interest rate is now 4.75-5%, down from a more than two-decade high of 5.25-5.5%.
Multiline insurers are investing heavily in technology to improve scale and efficiencies. This should help them generate higher margins and improve profitability.
These positives together help insurers build solid policyholders&#39; surplus that helps the industry absorb losses. The solid capital level of the multiline insurers will fuel merger and acquisition activities to ramp up growth and aid these insurers to engage in shareholder-friendly moves.
Let&#39;s delve deeper into specific parameters to ascertain which multi-line insurer is better-positioned at the moment.
<h2>Price Performance&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Shares of Old Republic have climbed 21.3% year to date, outperforming the industry&#39;s growth of 17.8% and Assurant&#39;s rise of 17.6%.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/d6/78959.jpg?v=326935590" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Return on Equity (ROE)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Assurant, with a ROE of 19.6%, exceeds Old Republic&#39;s ROE of 12.5% and the industry average of 16%.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/e8/78961.jpg?v=1855237749" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Debt-to-Capital&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Old Republic&#39;s debt-to-capital ratio of 24.8 is lower than the industry average of 31.8 and Assurant&#39;s reading of 29.3. Therefore, ORI has an advantage over AIZ on this front.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/6f/78962.jpg?v=2084482599" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Earnings Surprise History&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
AIZ outpaced expectations in each of the last seven reported quarters. ORI surpassed estimates in six of the last seven reported quarters.
<h2>Dividend Yield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Old Republic&#39;s dividend yield of 2.97% is better than Assurant&#39;s dividend yield of 1.45%. Thus, ORI has an advantage over AIZ on this front.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/83/78963.jpg?v=19303610" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Valuation&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
The price-to-book value is the best multiple used for valuing insurers. Compared with Assurant&#39;s P/B ratio of 2.06, Old Republic is cheaper, with a reading of 1.53. The multi-line insurance industry&#39;s P/B ratio is 2.70.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/3b/78965.jpg?v=499426243" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Growth Projection&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings indicates 7.6% growth from the year-ago reported figure for Old Republic, while the same for Assurant implies an increase of 6.7%.
<h2>Earnings Estimates&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
For 2024, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for AIZ has moved 2.9% north to $16.54 in the past 60 days, while the same for ORI has been revised 4.4% north to $2.83. Therefore, AIZ is in an advantageous position over ORI on this front.
<h2>Net Margin&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Old Republic&#39;s net margin for the trailing 12 months was 8.59%, higher than Assurant&#39;s reading of 6.9%.
<h2>To Conclude</h2>
Our comparative analysis shows that Old Republic is better positioned than Assurant with respect to price, valuation, growth projection, dividend yield, leverage and net margin. AIZ outpaces ORI in terms of return on equity, earnings estimates and earnings surprise history. With the scale majorly tilted toward Old Republic, the stock appears to be better poised.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2340682/assurant-or-old-republic-which-multiline-insurer-has-an-edge?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|comparison_of_stocks-2340682">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Asia

Earnings

Earnings Beats

Latin America

Dividends

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Insurance

Assurant or Old Republic: Which Multiline Insurer Has an Edge?

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on NextEra Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</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 NEE, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 29 options trades for NextEra Energy.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 65% bullish and 20%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $258,382, and 28, calls, for a total amount of $6,361,803.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $55.0 to $92.5 for NextEra Energy 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 NextEra Energy's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across NextEra Energy's significant trades, within a strike price range of $55.0 to $92.5, over the past month.
<h3>NextEra Energy Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727202655_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>NEE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$3.2</td>
<td>$3.1</td>
<td>$3.15</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$724.5K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NEE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$31.35</td>
<td>$30.65</td>
<td>$30.65</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$634.4K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NEE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$31.15</td>
<td>$30.55</td>
<td>$30.55</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$623.2K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td>2.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NEE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$31.5</td>
<td>$30.55</td>
<td>$30.55</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$604.9K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NEE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$30.7</td>
<td>$30.65</td>
<td>$30.65</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$588.4K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About NextEra Energy</h3>
NextEra Energy's regulated utility, Florida Power &amp; Light, is the largest rate-regulated utility in Florida. The utility distributes power to nearly 6 million customer accounts in Florida and owns 34 gigawatts of generation. FP&amp;L contributes roughly 70% of NextEra's consolidated operating earnings. NextEra Energy Resources, the renewable energy segment, generates and sells power throughout the United States and Canada with more than 34 GW of generation capacity, including natural gas, nuclear, wind, and solar.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding NextEra Energy, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Current Position of NextEra Energy</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 4,361,135, the NEE's price is down by -0.54%, now at $84.36. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 28 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About NextEra Energy</h3>
Over the past month, 3 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $90.0.
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>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Wells Fargo has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on NextEra Energy, which currently sits at a price target of $102. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from B of A Securities continues to hold a Neutral rating for NextEra Energy, targeting a price of $81. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Jefferies downgraded its rating to Hold, setting a price target of $87. 
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 NextEra Energy options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

NextEra Energy Unusual Options Activity For September 24

<a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice &amp; Trading Tips</a>
Pre-market stock movers are worth diving into on Tuesday as we check out all of the biggest changes and the news behind them!



Moving stocks this morning are earnings reports, an acquisition agreement, proposed public offerings and more.



Let&rsquo;s get into that news below!



<h2>Biggest Pre-Market Stock Movers: 10 Top Gainers</h2>



<ol><li>Dynatronics (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/dynt-stock-quote/">DYNT</a>) stock is rocketing more than 97% alongside heavy pre-market trading.</li>



<li>Dragonfly Energy (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/dfli-stock-quote/">DFLI</a>) shares are soaring close to 55% after releasing its <a href="https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/dragonfly-energy-reports-fourth-quarter-2023-and-full-year-financial-results-2024-04">Q4 2023 earnings report</a>.</li>



<li>Macatawa Bank (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/mcbc-stock-quote/">MCBC</a>) stock is surging over 38% after <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/04/15/2863147/11955/en/Wintrust-Financial-Corporation-and-Macatawa-Bank-Corporation-Announce-Plans-to-Merge.html">signing an acquisition agreement</a>.</li>



<li>WiSA Technologies (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/wisa-stock-quote/">WISA</a>) shares are rising more than 26% <a href="https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/wisa-technologies-announces-reverse-stock-split-2024-04-10">following a reverse stock split</a>.</li>



<li>Mobilicom (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/mob-stock-quote/">MOB</a>) stock is gaining over 21% on plans to show off an <a href="https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/mobilicom-to-unveil-unprecedented-comprehensive-solution-for-uncrewed-vehicle-systems">uncrewed vehicle system</a>.</li>



<li>HNR Acquisition (NYSEMKT:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/hnra-stock-quote/">HNRA</a>) shares are increasing more than 18% without any clear news this morning.</li>



<li>Shuttle Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/shph-stock-quote/">SHPH</a>) stock is climbing over 18% despite a lack of news.</li>



<li>Taoping (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/taop-stock-quote/">TAOP</a>) shares are getting a more than 16% boost without any obvious news to report.</li>



<li>Global Gas (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/hgas-stock-quote/">HGAS</a>) stock is jumping over 16% on Tuesday morning.</li>



<li>Kaixin (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/kxin-stock-quote/">KXIN</a>) shares are up more than 14% today.</li>
</ol><h2>10 Top Losers</h2>



<ol><li>Ryvyl (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/rvyl-stock-quote/">RVYL</a>) stock is diving over 29% on a <a href="https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/ryvyl-inc.-announces-launch-of-proposed-underwritten-public-offering-2024-04-15">proposed public offering</a>.</li>



<li>Calidi Biotherapeutics (NYSEMKT:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/cldi-stock-quote/">CLDI</a>) shares are tumbling more than 22% on a <a href="https://app.quotemedia.com/data/downloadFiling?webmasterId=90423&amp;ref=318234211&amp;type=PDF&amp;symbol=CLDI&amp;cdn=ab45db11645ce0b64dd38dde47e4a59d&amp;companyName=Calidi+Biotherapeutics+Inc.&amp;formType=S-1%2FA&amp;formDescription=%5BAmend%5D+General+form+for+registration+of+securities+under+the+Securities+Act+of+1933&amp;dateFiled=2024-04-15">proposed public offering</a>.</li>



<li>Inovio Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/ino-stock-quote/">INO</a>) stock is taking an over 22% beating after <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/inovio-announces-pricing-approximately-36-223900148.html">pricing an underwritten offering</a>.</li>



<li>MDJM (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/mdjh-stock-quote/">MDJH</a>) shares are sliding more than 15% on Tuesday morning.</li>



<li>Addex Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/adxn-stock-quote/">ADXN</a>) stock is dropping over 12% this morning.</li>



<li>Qilian (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/qli-stock-quote/">QLI</a>) shares are decreasing more than 10% today.</li>



<li>Indonesia Energy (NYSEMKT:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/indo-stock-quote/">INDO</a>) stock is falling over 10% this morning.</li>



<li>US Energy (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/useg-stock-quote/">USEG</a>) shares are slipping more than 10% on Tuesday.</li>



<li>Poseida Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/pstx-stock-quote/">PSTX</a>) stock is dipping over 9% today.</li>



<li>OMNIQ (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/omqs-stock-quote/">OMQS</a>) shares close out our pre-market stock movers down more than 9%.</li>
</ol>On the date of publication, William White did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the&nbsp;InvestorPlace.com&nbsp;<a href="https://investorplace.com/corporate/investorplace-publishing-guidelines/" target="_blank">Publishing Guidelines</a>.
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	The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/2024/04/todays-biggest-pre-market-stock-movers-10-top-gainers-and-losers-on-tuesday-april-16th/">Today's Biggest Pre-Market Stock Movers: 10 Top Gainers and Losers on Tuesday</a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.

Today's Biggest Pre-Market Stock Movers: 10 Top Gainers and Losers on Tuesday

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