Vodafone Group (NASDAQ:VOD) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Vodafone Group

Vodafone operates mobile and fixed-line networks and businesses in more than 20 countries. Its largest market is Germany, where it is the second mobile operator after Deutsche Telekom and owns a cable network after acquiring Kabel Deutschland in 2013 and Liberty Global Germany in 2019. In the UK it acts mainly as a mobile operator, being the second largest player after BT Group. In 2024 Vodafone divested its Spanish and Italian divisions, given their low returns on invested capital.

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Microsoft and Amazon are in fierce competition, navigating stock signals and making strides in AI. Microsoft is a shareholder favorite, while Amazon is transforming and investing in AI chips with Intel.

Microsoft Vs. Amazon: Stock Charts Signal Trouble, But Wall Street Sees AI-Fueled Growth

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Vodafone Group has sold a 10% stake in Vantage Towers for €1.3 billion ($1.4 billion) to reduce debt. This further sale achieves the 50:50 joint ownership structure with the consortium of long-term infrastructure investors led by Global Infrastructure Partners and KKR.

What&#39;s Going On With Telecommunication Company Vodafone&#39;s Shares On Monday?

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AT&amp;T&#39;s Chris Sambar joins AST SpaceMobile&#39;s Board of Directors, bringing extensive experience as the company prepares to launch its first satellites.

AST SpaceMobile Adds Chris Sambar to Board as It Prepares for Satellite Launch

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Milestone enables Vodafone Ireland to deliver superior customer experiences and operational excellence through a consolidated customer view and simplified architecture
JERSEY CITY, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / September 19, 2024 / Amdocs (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOX#NASDAQ">DOX</a>), a leading provider of software and services to communications and media companies, today announced the successful completion of a unified single business support system (BSS) and operations support system (OSS) platform transformation for Vodafone Ireland, integrating mobile and fixed communication services into a single, streamlined system, enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience.
The new platform provides a consolidated customer view, empowering front-line agents to make informed decisions, reducing errors, and streamlining processes. This transformation leads to a more automated, quicker, and consistent customer journey.

Vodafone Ireland Completes Unified Platform Transformation With Amdocs, Enhancing Customer Experience And Operational Efficiency

As Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) head for a potential Death Cross on their stock charts, a fierce competition between the two tech <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/09/40904071/intel-stock-rises-on-multibillion-dollar-aws-deal-u-s-chip-grant-boost-what-do-anal">giants rages on</a>.
Both companies are not only navigating stock market signals but also making significant strides in AI, shareholder returns, and strategic investments. Let's break down how they stack up.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Microsoft: AI Powerhouse, Shareholder Darling</h2>
Microsoft's stock might be teasing a death cross—a bearish technical indicator—but Wall Street analysts are anything but bearish. KeyBanc Capital Markets has maintained its Overweight rating on Microsoft with a sky-high price target of $490. This confidence is driven by Microsoft's explosive growth in AI, with a 60% quarter-over-quarter increase in Copilot AI customers and a big deployment with Vodafone (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>).
Beyond AI, Microsoft is showing serious love to its shareholders. The tech titan announced a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40899780/microsoft-stock-is-moving-higher-tuesday-whats-going-on">10% dividend hike</a>, raising the payout to $0.83 per share, and introduced a new $60 billion share repurchase program. This comes as the previous $60 billion buyback program from 2021 wraps up. 
Microsoft's mix of strategic buybacks and increased dividends suggests it's on a mission to keep shareholders hooked while riding the AI wave.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Amazon: Leaner, Meaner, AI-Driven</h2>
Amazon, meanwhile, is in the midst of a major transformation. BofA Securities analyst Justin Post has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/09/40904754/amazons-leaner-structure-and-ai-chip-partnership-with-intel-could-boost-growth-bofa">reiterated his Buy rating</a> on Amazon with a $210 price target, betting on CEO Andy Jassy's vision for a slimmer, more efficient company.
By the end of first quarter of 2025, Amazon is expected to save $700 million annually through streamlining its workforce, reducing management layers, and enforcing a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/09/40887347/amazon-to-cut-management-layers-end-work-from-home">return-to-office mandate.</a>
But the real ace up Amazon's sleeve is AWS (Amazon Web Services). Amazon's multi-billion-dollar co-investment with Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) in custom AI chips is set to give AWS a competitive edge in the ever-expanding AI landscape. 
With the AI arms race heating up, Amazon's bet on Intel's cutting-edge 18A chips positions AWS to tap into broad-based AI demand.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Technical Showdown: Death Cross Ahead?</h2>
While both Microsoft and Amazon stock are experiencing slight buying pressure and bullish momentum, the looming death cross—the point where the 50-day moving average dips below the 200-day moving average—casts a shadow over their technical outlooks.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent091824&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="623" height="454" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/17150646/Screenshot-2024-09-17-at-11.52.16-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-552560" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/17150646/Screenshot-2024-09-17-at-11.52.16-PM.png 623w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/17150646/Screenshot-2024-09-17-at-11.52.16-PM-300x219.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 623px) 100vw, 623px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent091824&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
For Microsoft stock, the price remains above key moving averages, with its 50-day SMA at $423.17. 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent091824&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="623" height="454" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/17150659/Screenshot-2024-09-17-at-11.52.34-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-552561" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/17150659/Screenshot-2024-09-17-at-11.52.34-PM.png 623w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/17150659/Screenshot-2024-09-17-at-11.52.34-PM-300x219.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 623px) 100vw, 623px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent091824&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
Similarly, Amazon stock&#8217;s price is above its key averages. 
Although these signals typically point to strength, the impending death cross hints at potential turbulence ahead for both.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who's Winning?</h2>
In the AI arena, both companies are playing to their strengths: Microsoft with its rapidly expanding Copilot initiative and Amazon with its AWS dominance. 
However, Microsoft's aggressive shareholder-focused moves, including the buyback and dividend boost, may give it the edge for now. 
On the other hand, Amazon's operational streamlining could position it for stronger long-term growth, especially as it optimizes its workforce and fortifies AWS with custom AI chips.
As the battle heats up and the death cross approaches, Wall Street remains bullish, but cautious investors might want to keep a close eye on the charts.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/09/40885285/amazon-vs-disney-the-e-commerce-titan-takes-on-mickey-in-streaming-wars">Amazon Vs. Disney: The E-Commerce Titan Takes On Mickey In Streaming Wars</a></li>
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Photo: Shutterstock

Curiosity Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/curi#NASDAQ">CURI</a>), a leading global factual media and entertainment company, today announced the launch of Curiosity Channel, its linear television channel, as well as its streaming app, Curiosity Stream, on Vodafone TV PLAY in Ireland.
Curiosity Channel and Curiosity Stream join NOW, Netflix, Disney+, RTÉ Player, and more on Vodafone TV PLAY's easy-to-navigate dashboard, now featuring 4K ultra HD as well as immersive built-in audio, designed by Bang &amp; Olufsen with Dolby Atmos&#174; technology.
Curiosity is an industry leader in award-winning documentaries and factual programming exploring science, nature, history, technology, lifestyle, and more. The partnership with Vodafone Ireland expands Curiosity Channel's international reach, bringing its premium films, series, and specials to Irish viewers on Vodafone TV PLAY's Signature package.

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CURI

Curiosity Launches Curiosity Channel And Curiosity Stream On Vodafone TV PLAY In Ireland, Offering 4K Ultra HD And Dolby Atmos Audio

Vodafone And 1&1 Have Officially Launched Their National Roaming Partnership In Mobile Communications Today; Beginning August 29, 2024, New 1&1 Customers Will Be Able To Access Vodafone's Mobile Network Alongside 1&1's Own Network With Their Smartphones; Both Network Operators Have Now Signed Final Contract, Setting Stage For Collaboration Starting This Summer

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Shares of stocks in the broader communication services sector are trading lower as stocks sell off amid concerns over the US economy.

Kyndryl And Vodafone Business Extend Partnership To Enhance Security And Resiliency Services For Financial Industry Customers; New Agreement Includes Endpoint Protection, Vulnerability Services, And Web Internet Protection

Vodafone Group Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) shares are trading higher in premarket today. The telecommunications company has sold an additional 10% <a target="_blank" href="https://www.vodafone.com/news/corporate-and-financial/vodafone-sells-further-10-in-vantage-towers-for-e1-3bn" rel="noreferrer noopener">stake </a>in Oak Holdings GmbH, the partnership co-controlling Vantage Towers, for 1.3 billion euros ($1.4 billion).
This sale finalizes the 50:50 joint ownership structure with the consortium led by Global Infrastructure Partners and KKR &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KKR#NYSE">KKR</a>).
Vodafone will receive €1.3 billion from this transaction, sold at €32 per share, matching the initial deal announced on November 9, 2022, bringing the total proceeds from selling Vantage Towers shares to €6.6 billion.
The proceeds will be used to reduce Vodafone&#8217;s debt, lowering the Net Debt/Adjusted EBITDAaL by 0.1x.
This aligns with Vodafone&#8217;s goal to operate within the lower half of its 2.25x &#8211; 2.75x leverage range.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39333081/vodafone-offloads-indias-indus-towers-stake-to-trim-2-3b-debt" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vodafone Offloads India&#8217;s Indus Towers Stake To Trim $2.3B Debt</a>
Since taking over as CEO, Margherita Della Valle has aimed to streamline Vodafone&#8217;s operations. Her strategy includes selling underperforming markets and attempting a merger with CK Hutchison&#8217;s Three, currently under U.K. competition review, reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-22/vodafone-sells-1-3-billion-vantage-towers-stake-to-pay-off-debt?srnd=phx-industries&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>.
European telecom operators, including Vodafone, are finding innovative ways to generate revenue amid challenging capital investment returns, with many opting to sell parts of their infrastructure.
Vodafone stock has lost about 8% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;First Trust NASDAQ Technology Dividend Index Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TDIV#NASDAQ">TDIV</a>) and Pacer Global Cash Cows Dividend ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VWI#NYSE">VWI</a>).
Price Action: VOD shares are trading higher by 1.11% at $9.13 in premarket at last check Monday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons

What's Going On With Telecommunication Company Vodafone's Shares On Monday?

AST SpaceMobile, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>), the company developing the first space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by smartphones, has announced the appointment of Chris Sambar to its Board of Directors, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/06/b39454662/ast-spacemobile-welcomes-chris-sambar-head-of-network-at-t-to-board-of-directors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effective June 20</a>. 
Sambar, who is the Head of Network at AT&amp;T Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/T#NYSE">T</a>), succeeds Alex Coleman, Chairman at New Providence Acquisition Corp. The stock saw some redemption Monday after a selloff Friday.
The addition of Sambar to the Board comes at a crucial time for AST SpaceMobile as the company prepares to launch its first commercial satellites into low Earth orbit from Cape Canaveral this summer. 
Sambar has over two decades of experience at AT&amp;T (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/T#NYSE">T</a>).
In his new role, Sambar will also serve on AST SpaceMobile's Network Planning and Spectrum Committee, overseeing network planning, features, and capacity for the AST constellation.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39277372/why-is-satellite-company-ast-spacemobile-stock-soaring-on-tuesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earlier in June</a> the company&#8217;s selling shareholders offloaded 10.45 million shares.
AST SpaceMobile holds over 3,300 patent and patent-pending claims for its technology and operates advanced manufacturing and testing facilities in Midland, Texas, covering 185,000 square feet. 
The company has secured strategic investments from major players such as AT&amp;T, Verizon Communications Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VZ#NYSE">VZ</a>), 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, and Vodafone Group Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>), and has a contract award with the U.S. Government through a prime contractor.
AST SpaceMobile stock gained 56% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) and iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWO#NYSE">IWO</a>).
Price Action: AST SpaceMobile shares were down 0.10% at $10.07 at the last check on Monday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Company

<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.netscout.com%2F%3Fls%3DPR-MKTG%26lsd%3Dpr-062920-1&amp;esheet=54074786&amp;newsitemid=20240620484654&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=NETSCOUT+SYSTEMS%2C+INC&amp;index=1&amp;md5=f8acf88fca4259f67e7e7ea9a12d2a2f">NETSCOUT SYSTEMS, INC</a>. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTCT#NASDAQ">NTCT</a>), a leading provider of performance management, cybersecurity, and DDoS attack protection solutions, today announced the extension of its long-term partnership with Vodafone to enhance the performance of Vodafone&#39;s networks for customers.
The multi-year agreement leverages NETSCOUT InfinistreamNG to provide real-time, end-to-end visibility monitoring solutions across Vodafone&#39;s physical and virtual network environment, including 5G Standalone. It gives Vodafone pinpoint visibility of all the component parts of its networks, enabling it to analyze the flow and performance of anonymized and aggregated packet data to enhance the customer experience.
&quot;Vodafone is leading the way in developing next-generation telecommunications infrastructure,&quot; stated Michael Szabados, chief operating officer, NETSCOUT. &quot;We value our relationship in providing them with proven service assurance technology across their entire hybrid environment. Our ability to generate smart data and insights to inform their analytics platform helps them enhance their service offerings at scale.&quot;
NETSCOUT InfinistreamNG helps service providers embrace their transition to next-generation platforms by providing network and application visibility for optimal performance and availability with enhanced security.
&quot;NETSCOUT has been a valuable partner for many years. InfinistreamNG gives us the visibility to analyze packet and flow data for greater control of our services, networks, and applications across our European hybrid environment,&quot; stated Simon Norton, Head of Digital &amp; OSS, Vodafone. &quot;With NETSCOUT&#39;s solutions, we&#39;re able to analyze and enhance our network performance to deliver an exceptional customer experience.&quot;
NETSCOUT&#39;s agreement covers the virtual and 5G environments across Vodafone&#39;s European operations and Vodafone Group entities and services.

NTCT

NETSCOUT and Vodafone Extend Partnership to Boost Network Performance

Vodafone Group Public Limited Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) reportedly plans to sell its entire $2.3 billion stake in India&#8217;s Indus Towers through stock market block deals next week.
The move is part of the British firm&#8217;s strategy to repay debt, Reuters reports.
Vodafone currently owns 21.5% of mobile tower operator Indus Towers through various group entities. Based on Friday&#8217;s stock price in Mumbai, the investment is valued at $2.3 billion.
As per the report, the final size of the stake sale is yet to be determined and could be lower than 21.5% if demand is insufficient.
Vodafone intends to sell the stake through block deals in Indian stock markets next week and has enlisted several banks like Bank of America, Morgan Stanley, and BNP Paribas to handle the transaction.
Vodafone U.K., a subsidiary of&nbsp;Vodafone, and Three U.K., owned by&nbsp;CK Hutchison Holdings Limited, disclosed a joint venture to consolidate their 27 million <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/03/37890748/vodafone-and-three-uk-merger-faces-cma-scrutiny-over-competition-concerns" rel="noreferrer noopener">customers under one network provider</a>.&nbsp;
Investors can gain exposure to the VOD stock via&nbsp;First Trust NASDAQ Technology Dividend Index Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TDIV#NASDAQ">TDIV</a>)&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pacer Global Cash Cows Dividend ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VWI#NYSE">VWI</a>).
Price Action: VOD shares traded lower by 0.51% at $8.71 at the last check on Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by rafapress on Shutterstock.

Large Cap

Vodafone Offloads India's Indus Towers Stake To Trim $2.3B Debt

Reuters Reported Vodafone Seeks To Sell $2.3B Stake In India's Indus Towers Next Week As Part Of Effort To Repay Debt

These large-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>MicroStrategy Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) shares increased 30.10% following <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38848026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a rise in the price of Bitcoin</a>.</li>
<li>Monday.Com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MNDY#NASDAQ">MNDY</a>) shares jumped 25.97% following better-than-expected Q1 financial results and a Q2 FY24 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38844489" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">revenue guidance above estimates</a>. Several analysts boosted price <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38870880" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">targets for the company</a>.</li>
<li>On Holding AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONON#NYSE">ONON</a>) shares soared 15.02% after it reported better-than-expected financial results, and analysts raised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38848321" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the price target on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Sea Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SE#NYSE">SE</a>) shares rose 13.99% following a Q1 revenue beat, and Tiger Global increased <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38818138" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its stake in the company</a>.</li>
<li>Insulet Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PODD#NASDAQ">PODD</a>) shares surged 12.81%, even though short-seller Blue Orca Capital announced it had taken a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38826162" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">short position in its stock</a>.</li>
<li>Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>) shares increased 11.69% after the company declared that it is expanding its server portfolio with performance and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38823833" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">efficiency upgrades to the Dell PowerEdge</a>. Morgan Stanley raised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38852211" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Vodafone Group Plc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) stock upped 10.75% after the company reported<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;full-year financial results</a>.</li>
<li>Alcon Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALC#NYSE">ALC</a>) shares increased 9.69% after the company reported mixed Q1 financial results, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38841656" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysts boosted their forecasts</a>.</li>
<li>Super Micro Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) shares increased 9.54% following gaining momentum <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38808523/the-8-silent-billionaires-cashing-in-on-the-ai-boom-besides-nvidias-jensen-huang-and-openais-sam-alt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at the start of the week</a>.</li>
<li>Corebridge Financial Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRBG#NYSE">CRBG</a>) shares rose 5.60% after American International Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AIG#NYSE">AIG</a>) reached a deal to sell shares of its stock in the company to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38874554" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nippon Life Insurance</a>.</li>
</ol>
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38779419/these-10-large-cap-stocks-shined-brightest-last-week-may-5-may-11-2024-are-they-in-your-portfolio">These 10 Large Cap Stocks Shined Brightest Last Week (May 5-May 11, 2024): Are They In Your Portfolio?</a>

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MicroStrategy Was The Best Among These 10 Large-Cap Stocks Scoring Big Last Week (May 12-May 19, 2024): Are They In Your Portfolio?

U.S. stocks were higher, with the Dow Jones gaining around 150 points on Wednesday.
Shares of Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXT#NASDAQ">NXT</a>) rose sharply during Wednesday's session after the company reported better-than-expected <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NXT/earnings">fourth-quarter financial results</a>.
NEXTracker posted quarterly earnings of 96 cents per share, beating market estimates of 78 cents per share. The company's quarterly sales came in at $736.51 million versus expectations of $683.43 million, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Nextracker shares gained 7.7% to $46.34 on Wednesday.
Here are some other big stocks recording gains in today's session.
<ul>
<li>monday.com Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MNDY#NASDAQ">MNDY</a>) gained 21.5% to $220.93 after the company reported better-than-expected first-quarter financial results and issued FY24 revenue guidance above estimates.</li>
<li>BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BCRX#NASDAQ">BCRX</a>) surged 20% to $6.44.</li>
<li>Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARQT#NASDAQ">ARQT</a>) gained 16.5% to $9.47 after the company reported better-than-expected first-quarter financial results.</li>
<li>Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CDRO#NASDAQ">CDRO</a>) gained 14.3% to $7.98 following first-quarter results.</li>
<li>Riskified Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSKD#NYSE">RSKD</a>) climbed 12.8% to $6.05 following upbeat results.</li>
<li>Cabaletta Bio, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CABA#NASDAQ">CABA</a>) rose 12.8% to $12.66 following first-quarter results.</li>
<li>B&amp;G Foods, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BGS#NYSE">BGS</a>) gained 11.5% to $9.53.</li>
<li>J.Jill, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JILL#NYSE">JILL</a>) rose 9.7% to $31.17. J.Jill said it sees first-quarter preliminary net sales results of about $160 million and adjusted EBITDA of $33 million to $34 million.</li>
<li>Candel Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CADL#NASDAQ">CADL</a>) rose 9.3% to $11.69. Candel Therapeutics posted a first-quarter loss of 28 cents per share on Tuesday.</li>
<li>GoodRx Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDRX#NASDAQ">GDRX</a>) climbed 8.1% to $7.18 after the company announced that it signed a new direct contracting agreement with Kroger.</li>
<li>Arvinas, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARVN#NASDAQ">ARVN</a>) rose 7.3% to $33.64.</li>
<li>Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NU#NYSE">NU</a>) gained 7.1% to $12.36 after the company reported better-than-expected first-quarter sales results. Also, Susquehanna maintained a Positive rating on the stock and raised its price target from $12 to $14.</li>
<li>Shift4 Payments, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOUR#NYSE">FOUR</a>) rose 6.8% to $69.46.</li>
<li>Critical Metals Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRML#NASDAQ">CRML</a>) gained 6.2% to $8.60.</li>
<li>Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>) gained 6% to $142.18 after Morgan Stanley maintained an Overweight rating on the stock and raised its price target from $128 to $152.</li>
<li>Celestica Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CLS#NYSE">CLS</a>) rose 5.4% to $50.57.</li>
<li>Vodafone Group Public Limited Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) gained 4.2% to $9.58.</li>
</ul>
Now Read This: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38842256/top-3-real-estate-stocks-that-may-implode-in-q2">Top 3 Real Estate Stocks That May Implode In Q2</a>

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NEXTracker Posts Upbeat Earnings, Joins monday.com, Nu Holdings And Other Big Stocks Moving Higher On Wednesday

Vodafone Business Ireland and <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ringcentral.com&amp;esheet=53990351&amp;newsitemid=20240515591801&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=RingCentral%2C&amp;index=1&amp;md5=26cf53353ad3847e43e0b70fb560b70e">RingCentral, </a><a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ringcentral.com&amp;esheet=53990351&amp;newsitemid=20240515591801&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=Inc&amp;index=2&amp;md5=a3891b4e89c05a9fbf7802e05559fcc5">Inc</a><a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ringcentral.com&amp;esheet=53990351&amp;newsitemid=20240515591801&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=.+%28NYSE%3A+RNG%29&amp;index=3&amp;md5=8bed362e4ae7b57e9f6849ac8223834d">. (NYSE:</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RNG#NYSE">RNG</a>), a leading provider of AI-driven cloud business communications, contact center, video, and hybrid event solutions, today announced the launch of Vodafone Business UC with RingCentral to organizations of all sizes in Ireland. Already accessible in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, and the United Kingdom, this solution enables businesses to facilitate seamless communication and collaboration for their workforces from virtually any device, anywhere, at any time. With this offering, Vodafone Business Ireland and RingCentral are empowering businesses to embrace the evolving landscape of hybrid work.

Vodafone Ireland And RingCentral Collaborate To Unveil Innovative Hybrid Work Solution, Facilitating Seamless Across Devices And Locations

Buybacks

Global

Vodafone Group Spain Sale Approved, €2 Billion Share Buyback To Begin; Intends To Commence An Initial €500 Million Share Buyback Program On 15 May 2024; Sale Is Expected To Complete At End Of May 2024

Vodafone shares are trading higher after the company reported full-year financial results.

Vodafone Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.00 per share. This is a 97.54 percent decrease over earnings of $0.12 per share from the same period last year. The company reported $39.93 billion in sales this quarter. This is a 18.59 percent decrease over sales of $49.05 billion the same period last year.

Earnings

Vodafone Group FY Adj $0.00 Down From $0.12 YoY, Sales $39.93B Down From $49.05B YoY

Vodafone U.K., a subsidiary of&nbsp;Vodafone Group Plc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>), and Three U.K., owned by&nbsp;CK Hutchison Holdings Limited, announced last year&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/23/06/32857707/its-official-vodafone-ck-hutchison-finally-discloses-merger-deal-of-uk-businesses" rel="noreferrer noopener">a joint venture</a>&nbsp;that would consolidate their 27 million customers under one network provider.&nbsp;
This move prompted the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/23/06/32870328/vodafone-ck-hutchisons-uk-merger-under-cma-scrutiny-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Competition and Markets Authority</a>&nbsp;(CMA) to initiate a Phase 1 investigation in January to determine the potential for a &#8220;substantial lessening of competition&#8221; that could impact U.K. consumers and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vodafone-three-deal-could-leave-consumers-and-businesses-worse-off" rel="noreferrer noopener">businesses</a>.&nbsp;
Last June, Vodafone Group struck a merger agreement with CK Hutchison Group Telecom Holdings Limited (CKHGT), a subsidiary of CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd, to combine their U.K. telecommunications operations. Following the merger of Vodafone U.K. and Three U.K., Vodafone will hold a 51% stake in the newly formed entity, while CKHGT will own the other 49%.&nbsp;
According to the agreement, Vodafone U.K. will contribute £4.3 billion, and Three U.K. will add £1.7 billion to secure its shares in the merged company.
The CMA&#8217;s concerns stem from the merger&#8217;s potential to lead to higher prices and reduced service quality for mobile customers, as it would combine two of the four leading mobile network operators in the U.K.
Throughout its investigation, the CMA identified that both Vodafone U.K. and Three UK are significant competitors in the market, with investments in network enhancements and 5G rollout, noting that Three U.K. is typically the most affordable option.&nbsp;
The authority expressed worry that the merger could diminish competitive pressures, which are essential for keeping prices low and driving service improvements, including network quality investments.&nbsp;
Moreover, the deal could challenge smaller mobile &#8216;virtual&#8217; network operators like Sky Mobile, Lebara, and Lyca Mobile in securing favorable terms for their customers due to fewer operators capable of hosting these networks.
While Vodafone UK and Three UK argue that the merger would benefit customers and accelerate new technology deployments, the CMA needs substantial evidence supporting these claims.&nbsp;
Given its initial findings, the CMA has signaled the possibility of escalating to a Phase 2 investigation unless Vodafone U.K. and Three U.K. can promptly propose satisfactory solutions to these competitive concerns. The combined company will likely have an enterprise value of around £15 billion.
U.S. Big Tech companies including&nbsp;Meta Platforms Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>),&nbsp;Apple Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>),&nbsp;Amazon.Com Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>),&nbsp;Google&nbsp;parent&nbsp;Alphabet Inc&nbsp;(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>) attracted global regulatory action for thwarting competition by exercising their undue influence.&nbsp;
Nvidia Corp&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) plan to scoop British chip designer&nbsp;Arm Holdings Plc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) succumbed to regulatory opposition who feared the union would make them a monopoly powerhouse.
Vodafone&#8217;s stock has lost over 22% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;First Trust NASDAQ Technology Dividend Index Fund&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TDIV#NASDAQ">TDIV</a>) and&nbsp;Pacer Global Cash Cows Dividend ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VWI#NYSE">VWI</a>).
Price Action: VOD shares are trading higher by 1.63% at $8.74 premarket on the last check Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by Kerstin Riemer from Pixabay

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Vodafone and Three UK Merger Faces CMA Scrutiny Over Competition Concerns

Vodafone Group shares are trading higher after the company announced that entered into a binding agreement to sell 100% of its Italian operations to Swisscom.

Swisscom AG&nbsp;(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SWZCF#OTC">SWZCF</a>) inked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.swisscom.ch/en/about/news/2024/03/15-vodafone-italia.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">binding deals</a>&nbsp;with&nbsp;Vodafone Group Plc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) to acquire 100% of Vodafone Italia for €8 billion ($8.71 billion), aiming to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36861948/why-is-vodafone-stock-trading-lower-wednesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;merge it with Fastweb, its Italian subsidiary</a>.
The transaction consideration will be 100% cash and will be fully debt-financed, Swisscom said in a press release.
Vodafone will provide certain services for an initial total annual service charge of ~€350 million, expected to decrease over time.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36635078/vodafone-commits-1-5-billion-to-collaborate-with-microsoft-to-make-generative-ai-accessible-to-3" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vodafone Commits $1.5 Billion To Collaborate With Microsoft To Make Generative AI Accessible To 300M Users</a>
Vodafone Italia and Fastweb unite to combine their mobile and fixed infrastructures, skills, and resources, positioning themselves as a prominent challenger in a market ripe with growth prospects.
The enhanced scale, streamlined cost structure, and substantial annual synergies of approximately €600 million will empower the merged entity to create substantial value for stakeholders.&nbsp;
This will allow sustained investments in Italy&#8217;s telecom sector, delivering innovative, competitively priced converged services to enhance customer experiences across all market segments.
Following the Italian deal and the previously agreed sale of its Spanish operation, Vodafone announced plans to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://investors.vodafone.com/reports-information/results-reports-presentations" rel="noreferrer noopener">return&nbsp;</a>€4 billion via share buybacks to shareholders.
&#8220;Our transactions in Italy and Spain will deliver €12 billion of upfront cash proceeds and we intend to return €4 billion to shareholders via buybacks, as part of our broader capital allocation review," said Group Chief Executive Margherita Della Valle.
Additionally, it intends to reduce its dividend to 4.5 euro cents per share starting from the 2025 financial year. The company&#8217;s FY24 total ordinary dividend is expected to be maintained at 9.0c per share.&nbsp;
Swisscom announced that the debt-financed transaction will be settled in cash. The closing of the deal is contingent upon obtaining regulatory and customary approvals.&nbsp;
Swisscom stated that it does not anticipate requiring a shareholder vote and anticipates the closure to take place in the first quarter of 2025.
&#8220;With the merger we&#8217;re creating a leading provider in a market with great growth opportunities and in doing so taking a big step towards our goal of profitable growth in Italy,&#8221; Swisscom CEO Christoph Aeschlimann said in a video statement, Reuters reported.
Read Next:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/03/37672693/analyst-recommends-trump-linked-phunware-for-solid-results-in-2h24-and-2025-heres-w" rel="noreferrer noopener">Analyst Recommends Trump-Linked Phunware For Solid Results In 2H24 And 2025 &#8211; Here&#8217;s Why</a>
Price Action: VOD shares are trading higher by 4.24% to $8.85 premarket on the last check Friday.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons

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SWZCF

Vodafone Stock Jumps Over 4% - Sells Italy Unit To Swisscom In $8.7B Deal

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Goldman Sachs Sticks to Its Buy Rating for Vodafone (VOD)

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Vodafone (VOD) Receives a Hold from Berenberg Bank

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UBS Keeps Their Hold Rating on Vodafone (VOD)

EU Commission nods Swisscom-Vodafone Italia $8.9B deal

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Broadcom and Vodafone Demonstrate Network Programmability to Optimize Network Performance for Short-Form Video Content

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Vodafone Group

Vodafone Group (VOD) Forecast

Vodafone Group (NASDAQ:VOD) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas