Stock Market Today 18.12.2025

RBC Lowers Canfor Target to C$15; Raymond James Also Cuts, Analysts Split on CFP

December 18, 2025, 3:22 PM EST. Royal Bank of Canada trimmed Canfor's price objective from C$16.00 to C$15.00, keeping an Outperform rating and signaling roughly a 32.74% upside from the prior close. Raymond James followed with a target cut to C$15.00 and Outperform rating. Market consensus stands at a Hold with a C$15.75 target. Canfor (CFP) was trading around C$11.30 as volume neared 121k shares. Five analysts cover the stock: 3 Buy, 2 Hold, and 1 Sell. In its latest quarter, Canfor reported a loss per share of about C$1.48 on revenue of C$1.26B, with negative margins and ROE; liquidity remains solid. The stock sits below key moving averages and faces continued near-term pressure despite its diversified Lumber and Pulp & Paper segments.

RBC Trims Canfor Target to C$15; Raymond James Also Cuts Target (CFP)

December 18, 2025, 3:21 PM EST. Canfor Corp (CFP) saw its price objective trimmed by Royal Bank of Canada from C$16.00 to C$15.00, with RBC still backing an outperform rating and implying about 32.7% upside from the prior close. Separately, Raymond James cut its target to C$15.00 while also maintaining an outperform stance. Market data show a consensus Hold and a MarketBeat price target of about C$15.75. The stock traded around C$11.30 midday on volume near its 163k average. Canfor reported Q4 results: a quarterly loss per share of C$1.48 on revenue of C$1.26B, with negative ROE (-20.05%) and a net margin of -13.77%. Analysts expect roughly C$0.4005 EPS for the current year, though sentiment remains mixed ahead of next earnings.

TD Securities Lifts Premium Brands Target to C$160; Buy Rating Signals Upside

December 18, 2025, 3:20 PM EST. TD Securities raised Premium Brands (TSE:PBH) target to C$160 from C$145, signaling about 58.31% upside from the current level. Other analysts followed with higher targets (Stifel to C$106, RBC to C$118, CIBC to C$115, BMO to C$111) while Scotiabank trimmed to C$99. MarketBeat shows a consensus Buy with an average target of C$120.09. PBH traded around C$101.07 midday on ~180k shares, giving it a market cap near C$4.5B. The stock's near-term metrics include a P/E of about 68.8, P/E/G of 1.10, and solid liquidity (quick 1.16, current 1.51). In the latest quarter, PBH reported EPS C$1.27 on revenue C$1.99B. The focus remains on Specialty Foods and Premium Distribution as catalysts for continued momentum.

TD Securities Raises PT for Premium Brands (TSE:PBH) to C$160, Implies ~58% Upside

December 18, 2025, 3:19 PM EST. TD Securities raised its price target for Premium Brands (TSE: PBH) from C$145.00 to C$160.00, signaling a potential upside of about 58.31% from the current level. Other brokers also boosted or adjusted targets, including Stifel Nicolaus (C$106.00), RBC (C$118.00), Scotiabank (C$99.00), CIBC (C$115.00), and BMO (C$111.00). Market consensus from MarketBeat remains a Buy, with a target price of C$120.09 and a mix of ratings (two Strong Buy, seven Buy, one Hold). In mid-day trading, PBH traded around C$101.07 on strong volume, with a market cap near C$4.51B. The stock trades at a high P/E (68.76) but a modest P/E/G of 1.10; quarterly results showed C$1.27 EPS on revenue of C$1.99B.

TD Securities lifts Premium Brands target to C$160, signaling upside for PBH

December 18, 2025, 3:18 PM EST. TD Securities raised its target on Premium Brands (TSE:PBH) from C$145.00 to C$160.00, signaling a potential upside of about 58% from the current price. The upgrade follows upgrades from peers: Stifel Nicolaus to C$106, RBC to C$118, CIBC to C$115, and BMO to C$111, while Scotiabank trimmed to C$99. MarketBeat shows a consensus Buy with an average target of C$120.09. PBH traded around C$101.07 mid-day after reporting Q3 results (C$1.27 EPS, revenue of C$1.99B). Key metrics include a P/E around 68.8 and a beta of 0.38, with a 1-year high/low of C$103.89 and C$72.57. The stock's 50-day and 200-day moving averages stand around C$95.40 and C$90.95, respectively.

Stifel Nicolaus raises Premium Brands target to C$111; mixed updates from peers (PBH)

December 18, 2025, 3:10 PM EST. Premium Brands (TSE:PBH) saw its target price raised by Stifel Nicolaus from C$106 to C$111, signaling about a 9.8% upside from the current level. Other firms offered mixed views: TD Securities lifted to C$160, CIBC to C$115, RBC to C$118, and BMO to C$111, while Scotiabank trimmed to C$99. Market consensus remains Buy with a C$120.09 target per MarketBeat. The stock rose about 1.6% to around C$101.07 intraday. Key metrics: 52-week range C$72.57-C$103.89, quick ratio 1.16, current ratio 1.51, debt-to-equity 163%, market cap C$4.51B, P/E 68.76, PEG 1.10, beta 0.38. Quarterly earnings: C$1.27/share; revenue C$1.99B; ROE 5.66%. Expectation for current year: ~6.04 EPS.

London's Counter-Strike: Elliott's Bookseller IPO Could Herald a New Era in the Transatlantic Listing War

December 18, 2025, 3:09 PM EST. Elliott Investment Management is lining up a 2026 IPO for its combined bookselling empire-Waterstones and Barnes & Noble-with a surprising preference for the London Stock Exchange over the NYSE. If realized, the listing would serve as a proving ground for the UK's post-Brexit reforms and a potential pivot in the transatlantic listing war. The boutiques model, led by James Daunt, has revived a cash-generative business: 2025 revenue around $3 billion with profits near $400 million; Barnes & Noble opened 67 stores in the US, while Waterstones' profits have nearly quadrupled. The move would cement London's appeal for high-quality, dividend-paying real-economy stocks and counteract valuation envy as Flutter and Ashtead shift to New York. A successful IPO could mark a turning point for the City of London's post-Brexit strategy.

Elliott's Bookseller IPO Could Redefine the Transatlantic Listing War

December 18, 2025, 3:08 PM EST. London could be on the cusp of a new era in the transatlantic listing war as Elliott Investment Management moves toward a 2026 IPO of Waterstones and Barnes & Noble on the London Stock Exchange. The plan, pitched as a proof of concept for post-Brexit reforms, challenges years of de-equitization and positions London as home to cash-generative, real-economy brands. Under James Daunt, the combined group posted about $400 million in profits on $3 billion in sales in 2025, with a boutique model that emphasizes local store curation over algorithmic giants. Market chatter is cautiously optimistic about a high-quality, dividend-paying listing on the LSE rather than the NYSE, potentially slowing the exodus to New York and reshaping the transatlantic listing wars.

Stifel Nicolaus Boosts PBH Target, Analysts See Upside for Premium Brands (TSE:PBH)

December 18, 2025, 3:07 PM EST. Stifel Nicolaus raised Premium Brands' target price from C$106.00 to C$111.00, signaling a 9.82% upside from current levels. Other firms also issued higher targets, including TD Securities (C$160.00), CIBC (C$115.00), RBC (C$118.00), BMO (C$111.00) and Scotiabank (C$99.00). Market consensus remains Buy, with two analysts rating Strong Buy, seven Buy, and one Hold (MarketBeat: average target C$120.09). PBH traded around C$101.07 mid-day, within a 52-week range of C$72.57-C$103.89. Key metrics include a P/E of 68.8, PEG 1.10, debt-to-equity about 1.63, and a market cap near C$4.51B. In the latest quarter, PBH posted C$1.27 EPS on revenue of C$1.99B, with a net margin of 1.55% and ROE of 5.66%.

BMO Raises Premium Brands Target to C$125; Multiple Analysts Bullish on PBH (TSE:PBH)

December 18, 2025, 3:05 PM EST. BMO Capital Markets raised its price target for Premium Brands (TSE:PBH) from C$111.00 to C$125.00, signaling a potential upside of about 23.7% from the prior close. Other firms also hiked targets, including RBC to C$118, Raymond James to C$125, CIBC to C$120, and TD Securities to C$160, with Stifel Nicolaus at C$111. Market sentiment remains positive, with a consensus Buy rating and a mean target of C$120.09. In trade, PBH touched C$101.07 on volume of 179,975. The stock trades at a high multiple, a P/E near 69 and a PEG around 1.1. Last quarter, PBH reported EPS of C$1.27 on revenue of C$1.99B, with a 1-year high/low of C$103.89/C$72.57.

London's Counter-Strike: Elliott's Bookseller IPO Signals a New Era in the Transatlantic Listing War

December 18, 2025, 2:59 PM EST. London's push to attract high-quality, cash-generative businesses gets a test case as Elliott Investment Management moves toward a 2026 IPO of Waterstones and Barnes & Noble on the London Stock Exchange rather than the NYSE. The plan, if realized, would mark a turning point in the UK's post-Brexit regulatory regime and in the so-called listing war with New York. Under James Daunt, the merged group has delivered improving profits-about $400 million on $3 billion in sales-and a boutique model that champions local store curation over algorithmic retail. A successful London listing could restore investor confidence in the City, boost dividend payers, and curb "de-equitization" fears, placing the LSE at the center of a renewed transatlantic rivalry.

Tilray Soars on Cannabis Reclassification Bets as Medicare Pilot Sparks Growth Outlook

December 18, 2025, 2:53 PM EST. Tilray's stock (TLRY) jumped ~30% as President Trump signals a potential executive order to reclassify cannabis as Schedule III, easing tax and banking burdens and enabling R&D growth. A Medicare-backed pilot program could extend federally funded access to cannabis, expanding a stable customer base. Analysts at Barchart keep a Moderate Buy stance with targets as high as $25, implying upside of over 75% from current levels. Options data point to a possible 50% move by March 20 if the thesis plays out. Technically, TLRY trades above 50-, 100-, and 200-day moving averages, with RSI near 53, suggesting room for further gains. Historically, January has yielded about 14.20% on average for Tilray. Investors should monitor policy signals, fiscal implications, and any shifts in federal restrictions that could unlock profitability.

REG – RNS: Market Data Sources and Copyright Acknowledgments

December 18, 2025, 2:52 PM EST. REG – RNS details the data sources behind market content: market data from ICE Data Services, reference data from FactSet, and the CUSIP database also via FactSet. It notes copyright ownership by FactSet Research Systems Inc. and the American Bankers Association. SEC filings and other documents are provided by Quartr, with additional content from TradingView. The note underscores collaboration among major providers to deliver compliant, up-to-date financial information.

Midday Stock Movers: Micron, Rocket Lab, Trump Media, Lululemon Rally on Mergers and Upgrades

December 18, 2025, 2:51 PM EST. Stocks making big moves midday include Rocket Lab surging almost 8% after five-month-early STP-S30 launch for the Space Force; peers AST SpaceMobile, Virgin Galactic rising; ViaSat up 1%. GE Vernova up ~4% on Jefferies upgrade citing stronger power-infrastructure demand and wind-divestiture. Micron Technology jumps 11% after guiding to about $18.7B revenue in the current quarter, well above consensus. Trump Media surges 33% on news of a merger with TAE Technologies, an all-stock deal valued over $6B anticipated to close mid-2026. Tech giants rebound with Alphabet, Amazon, Nvidia, Microsoft, Meta around +2%; Tesla +4%. Lululemon pops >6% as activist Elliott Management takes a >$1B stake and eyes a potential CEO candidate. FactSet sinks >7% after FCF miss; Birkenstock falls 9% on softer 2026 guidance; Lennar declines >2% on mixed results.

Thursday 12/18 Insider Buying Report: UPXI & ABTC See New Insider Purchases

December 18, 2025, 2:50 PM EST. Two notable insider purchases headline Thursday's insider buying report. At UPXI (Upexi), CEO Allan Marshall bought 150,000 shares at $2.07 each, totaling $310,500. This follows two prior purchases this year, bringing his total stake to about $2.3 million at an average of $2.81 per share over the last twelve months. On the other side, ABTC (American Bitcoin) buyer Richard Busch acquired 175,000 shares for $1.66 each, or $290,500, marking his first purchase in the past year. The day shows UPXI trading about +4.3% and ABTC dipping around -2.4%. Watch how these insiders' moves influence near-term momentum.

AMH.PRH Yield Crosses 6.5% as American Homes 4 Rent's Series H Pref Shares Trade Near Discount

December 18, 2025, 2:49 PM EST. American Homes 4 Rent's 6.25% Series H cumulative redeemable perpetual preferred shares (AMH.PRH) traded Friday with a yield topping 6.5% based on a quarterly dividend of $1.5625. Looking at the day's activity, shares touched as low as $23.85, implying a discount to liquidation preference of about 3.32% versus a Real Estate sector average discount near 14.69%. The stock saw AMH common shares (AMH) retreat ~0.6% while AMH.PRH rose roughly 1.4% intraday. Preferred stock channel data shows the sector average yield around 8.09%. Investors remain focused on the income profile, the discount to liquidation value, and how the timing of dividends stacks against peers in the Real Estate category.

Gabelli Equity Trust's Series G Preferred Stock Yields Above 6% as Price Dips to $20.80

December 18, 2025, 2:48 PM EST. Gabelli Equity Trust's Series G Cumulative Preferred Stock (GAB.PRG) yielded above 6% on Tuesday as its quarterly dividend of $1.25 (annualized) supports prices near $20.80. The stock's yield sits above the 6% threshold when the intraday price is considered, compared with the average 6.14% in the ETFs & CEFs preferred-stock universe per Preferred Stock Channel. At last close, GAB.PRG traded with a 16.32% discount to its liquidation preference, wider than the category's 15.07% average. A dividend-history chart accompanies the note. In intraday trading, the GAB.PRG price edged higher by about 0.2%, while the common shares GAB moved about 0.2% lower.

US Stocks Rally as Cooler CPI Revives Fed Rate-Cut Bets; Micron Lifts Tech (Dec 18, 2025)

December 18, 2025, 2:47 PM EST. U.S. stocks climbed in late trading after a softer-than-expected CPI revived hopes for Fed rate cuts in 2026, helped by Micron's upbeat outlook that steadied the AI trade. At 1:52 p.m. ET, the Dow rose 0.39% to 48,074.62, the S&P 500 +1.06% to 6,792.91, and the Nasdaq +1.72% to 23,084.09, with the Russell 2000 up 0.97%. The market staged a three-part sequence: inflation surprise → lower yields → tech bid, after Wednesday's risk-off session. Yet the data is not "clean": the government shutdown disrupted CPI detail, leaving traders wary of the true trend. Jumps in price fed bets that a dovish Fed move by March is possible (about 58%), as yields dipped and rate expectations shifted.

Notable Thursday Options Activity: TSLA, META, AAPL

December 18, 2025, 2:46 PM EST. Today's notable options activity centers on TSLA, META, and AAPL. TSLA saw about 2.1 million contracts traded (≈214 million underlying shares), ≈272.3% of its 1-month average volume, led by the $500 strike call expiring Dec 19, 2025 with 127,490 contracts (≈12.7 million shares). META traded 356,857 contracts (≈35.7 million shares), about 207.6% of its average, with the $670 strike call expiring Dec 19, 2025 at 22,595 contracts (≈2.3 million). AAPL moved 599,661 contracts (≈60.0 million shares), ≈139.3% of average, led by the $270 strike put expiring Dec 19, 2025 at 45,463 contracts (≈4.5 million). Expirations and charts are shown on StockOptionsChannel.com.

Noteworthy Thursday Options Activity: MSFT, COIN, AMZN Surge in Volume

December 18, 2025, 2:45 PM EST. Thursday's session shows notable options activity across MSFT, COIN, and AMZN. MSFT traded 318,364 contracts (about 31.8 million shares), roughly 128.7% of its 1-month average volume, with heavy interest in the $480 call expiring Feb 20, 2026 (25,415 contracts, ~2.5 million underlying). COIN moved 115,090 contracts (~11.5 million shares), about 123.8% of its 1-month average; top activity in the $270 call expiring Dec 26, 2025 (6,047 contracts, ~604,700 underlying). AMZN logged 497,704 contracts (~49.8 million shares), around 120.4% of its average; notable is the $230 call expiring Dec 19, 2025 (36,194 contracts, ~3.6 million underlying).

Noteworthy Thursday Option Activity: AVGO, MRNA, IBM

December 18, 2025, 2:43 PM EST. Notable options activity today across three S&P 500 components: AVGO, MRNA, and IBM. AVGO has traded 357,843 contracts (~35.8M underlying shares), about 97.2% of its 1-month average volume (36.8M). The standout is the $335 strike call expiring Dec 19, 2025, with 23,223 contracts (~2.3M shares). For MRNA, volume sits at 83,430 contracts (~8.3M shares), or 83.1% of its 1-month ADV (10.0M). The top trade is the $32 strike call expiring Dec 19, 2025, with 17,666 contracts (~1.8M shares). IBM shows 24,275 contracts (~2.4M shares), about 69.3% of its 1-month ADV (3.5M). The active strike is the $295 put expiring Feb 20, 2026, with 5,440 contracts (~544k shares).

AZO, LW, BA See Notable Thursday Options Activity

December 18, 2025, 2:42 PM EST. Notable Thursday option activity in the S&P 500 included AZO, LW, and BA. AZO saw total option volume of 779 contracts (about 77,900 shares), roughly 48.8% of its 1-month average daily volume. The standout was the $3,350 put expiring Dec 19, 2025, with 61 contracts (≈6,100 shares). LW posted 5,226 contracts (≈522,600 shares), about 45% of its 1-month ADV. The top was the $57.50 put expiring Dec 19, 2025, with 1,854 contracts (≈185,400 shares). BA traded 41,493 contracts (≈4.1 million shares), about 42.6% of ADV, led by the $190 put expiring Dec 19, 2025, with 3,856 contracts (≈385,600 shares). More expirations: visit StockOptionsChannel.com.

Noteworthy Thursday Option Activity: COST, PWR, and SBUX

December 18, 2025, 2:41 PM EST. Today's standout option activity across COST, PWR, and SBUX shows sizable volume relative to recent averages. COST traded 19,355 contracts (~1.9M shares, ~67.9% of its 1-month ADV); notable activity in the $870 December 19, 2025 call (913 contracts, ~91,300 shares). PWR saw 6,734 contracts (~673,400 shares, ~63.8% of ADV); heavy activity in the $470 December 19, 2025 call (1,331 contracts, ~133,100 shares). SBUX totaled 48,753 contracts (~4.9M shares, ~54.8% of ADV), with the $85 put expiring June 18, 2026 seeing 4,260 contracts (~426,000 shares). For more expirations, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.

Three Stable Stocks That Survived the 2022 Bear Market: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, and Chevron

December 18, 2025, 2:40 PM EST. Stock investors worried about 2026 can take a page from 2022: focusing on blue-chip names with solid fundamentals helped blunt the drop. The piece highlights AbbVie (ABBV), Eli Lilly (LLY), and Chevron (CVX), all of which rose while the S&P 500 fell. AbbVie offered a resilient margin and a diversified lineup centered on immunology drugs like Skyrizi and Rinvoq, even as Humira revenue faced patent expiry. Eli Lilly rode GLP-1 drugs such as Mounjaro and Zepbound to outsized growth. Chevron benefited from stable cash flow and energy exposure during a volatile macro backdrop. The takeaway: in uncertain markets, investors can reduce risk by anchoring portfolios in quality, dividend yields, and sectors with resilience, while maintaining diversified exposure.

Cocoa Prices Slip as West Africa Crop Outlook Improves; Inventory Decline and Index Inclusion Loom

December 18, 2025, 2:39 PM EST. March ICE NY cocoa (CCH26) and March ICE London cocoa (CAH26) are lower, with NY cocoa sliding to a 1-week low as the West Africa crop outlook brightens supply prospects. In the Ivory Coast, farmers report a mix of rain and sun aiding tree bloom, while Ghana notes regular rainfall ahead of the harmattan season. The Ivory Coast harvest has begun, boosting near-term arrivals. ICE inventories at US ports fell to a 9-month low of 1,643,161 bags, supporting prices despite the bearish backdrop. Citigroup trimmed its 2025/26 global cocoa surplus estimate to 79,000 MT, even as arrivals at the ports rose by 0.2% YoY to 895,544 MT in Oct-Dec. The NY cocoa futures' inclusion in the Bloomberg Commodity Index in January could bring around $2 billion of passive buying.

Bitcoin reverses advance above $89k as crypto market whipsaws on CPI relief

December 18, 2025, 2:38 PM EST. Bitcoin (BTC) whipsawed after a brief push above $89,000, reversing largely into the session as price tumbled from a high near $89,300 to as low as $85,500. By late trading, BTC traded around $86,000, down about 0.8% over 24 hours. The move follows cooler-than-forecast November US CPI, which revived rate-cut speculation, though odds of a January cut stayed around 24%. Crypto options show a range-bound outlook for BTC, with downside protection below $85,000 and limited upside above $100,000. Ether hedging was more cautious, with support near $2,700-$2,800 and sellers pressing on $3,100 calls. Traders note that the market remains uncertain about a sustained breakout, even as broader risk assets gain.

Starfighter Space IPO Debuts on NYSE with $40M Raise, Eyes Air-Launched Satellite System

December 18, 2025, 2:37 PM EST. Starfighter Space began trading on the NYSE after a $40 million IPO, as CEO Rick Svetkoff outlines a path from demonstrations to orbital ambitions. The company, rooted at the Kennedy Space Center for three decades, has shifted from air-show pilots to R&D in hypersonic operations and satellite technology. Management says jets are operating daily, while the firm advances nano-sats and CubeSats for constellations. A key strategy is launching aerial rockets off the fighter, with the aircraft serving as the first stage toward low Earth orbit-a departure from traditional launches. Funds from the IPO will accelerate this air-launched approach, broaden orbital capabilities, and support broader pilot training programs for US and NATO partners.

Geopolitical Tensions Lift Crude Oil Prices on Sanctions and Demand Outlook

December 18, 2025, 2:36 PM EST. Geopolitical risk is lifting crude prices as Venezuela sanctions and potential Russian energy restrictions add support, while a positive stock rally keeps demand expectations bright. January WTI (CLF26) and RBOB (RBF26) rose, though gains are capped by a bearish global supply outlook. Analysts note OPEC+ cautious production tweaks, with Q1 2026 pauses amid a looming global surplus per IEA and OPEC projections. The EIA's latest data showed US inventories below seasonal norms for crude and gasoline, supporting a firming tone into the session. Traders also weigh ongoing sanctions on Russian oil assets and the potential for a shadow fleet crackdown, alongside shifting demand forecasts for 2025-26. Overall, risk premia from geopolitics is the key driver while supply-side constraints remain mixed.

AB Science Initiates Coverage by Maxim Group with €4 Target Price

December 18, 2025, 2:35 PM EST. AB Science announces that Maxim Group has initiated coverage of its stock with a Buy rating and a €4.00 target price. The US-based investment bank published a study titled Mastering Mast Cell Inhibition for Neurodegenerative Diseases Starting with ALS, dated December 18, 2025, highlighting masitinib's potential across neurodegenerative diseases and a favorable risk-benefit profile. Maxim notes data supporting neuroprotection in progressive MS and mild AD, while stating the models for AD or MS are upside. The initiation adds to other analysts covering AB Science, including Chardan, In Extenso Finance, and DNA Finance. AB Science, focused on PKIs for high-need diseases, is listed on Euronext Paris (ticker: AB).

AI Dominance and the 2026 Stock Market Outlook

December 18, 2025, 2:33 PM EST. As 2025 closes, the economy looks stable and the S&P 500 is up over 15% for the year, with inflation tame. Yet investor sentiment remains cautious about inflation, politics and jobs. Looking to 2026, most strategists expect a healthier market, supported by AI investment, potential Fed rate cuts, and tax breaks. Deutsche Bank projects a path to a higher S&P 500 around 8,000 by year-end 2026 – roughly an 18% gain – while Morgan Stanley eyes about +14% and LPL Financial a broader 7,300-7,400 range (~+8%). Analysts warn of a narrow market, with much of recent gains concentrated in seven high-growth names: Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla. Still, broader strengths in industrials like GE and RTX could broaden leadership as AI spending accelerates.

Is McCormick Now a Value Opportunity After the Price Rebound?

December 18, 2025, 2:32 PM EST. McCormick's stock around $68.65 has rebounded but remains down YTD and down over the last year, signaling a potential reset in expectations rather than a full turnaround. The latest price action reflects shifting sentiment toward defensive staples and reassessment of branded pantry names as rates and inflation evolve. A deeper valuation shows a low score on our checks (only 2/6), suggesting early signs of value but not a clear bargain across all measures. Our DCF model pegs intrinsic value near $164.28 per share, implying the stock could trade at a sizable discount (~58%). Investors should weigh McCormick's long-term growth prospects against volume, input costs, and competition before buying after the rebound.

Coffee Prices Slip on Improving Supply Outlook as Brazil Rainfall, Vietnam Output Rise

December 18, 2025, 2:31 PM EST. March arabica KCH26 is down 0.01% and Jan ICE robusta RMF26 down 0.37% as prices slide to 4-month lows, though a weaker dollar helped a modest rebound. The improving supply outlook presses prices: heavy Brazilian rainfall, especially in Minas Gerais (79.8 mm, 155% of avg), eases crop fears; the real weakness also supports exports. Conab lifted 2025 Brazil production to 56.54 million bags, signaling ample global supply. Vietnam's 2025/26 output is seen +6% to 1.76 MMT, pressuring robusta. ICE inventories give a mixed read: arabica stocks near a 1.75-year low before a rebound to a six-week high, while robusta inventories sit near an 11.5-month low. Policy and weather remain key to the outlook.

Daily Dividend Report: AXP, FE, BEN, MAA, TEL Declare Quarterly Dividends

December 18, 2025, 2:29 PM EST. Daily Dividend Report: Key payouts announced for AXP, FE, BEN, MAA, and TEL. AXP declares a regular quarterly dividend of $0.82 per share, payable Feb 10, 2026, to holders on Jan 2, 2026. FE sets a quarterly cash dividend of $0.445 per share, payable Mar 1, 2026, with a record date Feb 6, 2026. BEN (Franklin Resources) issues $0.33 per share, payable Jan 9, 2026; record Dec 30, 2025; up 3.1% sequentially and year over year. MAA announces $1.53 per share, payable Jan 30, 2026; record Jan 15, 2026; annualized payout $6.12, +8.3% five-year growth; 16th consecutive increase. TEL declares a regular $0.71 per share dividend, payable Mar 13, 2026; record Feb 20, 2026.

Thursday Sector Leaders: Agriculture & Farm Products and Semiconductors

December 18, 2025, 2:28 PM EST. On Thursday, agriculture & farm products stocks led gains, rising about 2.4%. The advance was led by Village Farms International up 12.9% and Cresud SA Comercial Industrial Financiera Y Agropecuaria up 3.8%. The semiconductors group also traded higher, adding about 2.3%, with QuickLogic climbing 12.8% and Micron Technology up 12.1%. The session highlighted how leadership rotated between these two influential pockets of the market as investors weighed earnings signals and demand trends. The video segment Thursday Sector Leaders recaps the day's activity in these sectors.

Thursday Sector Laggards: Oil & Gas Exploration & Production and Rental, Leasing, & Royalty Stocks Drag Thursday

December 18, 2025, 2:27 PM EST. On Thursday, Oil & Gas Exploration & Production shares led the laggards, slipping about 1.4%. The decline was driven by Abundia Global Impact Group (around -13.9%) and Epsilon Energy (around -4.1%). The Rental, Leasing, & Royalty group fell about 0.9%, with Research Frontiers down roughly -3.5% and Joint about -2.5%. The move underscores continued pressure in these pockets of the market, even as broader indices moved in mixed directions. Video: Thursday Sector Laggards: Oil & Gas Exploration & Production, Rental, Leasing, & Royalty Stocks. As always, views are those of the author and not Nasdaq, Inc.

Thursday's ETF Movers: PBW Rises, SLVR Falls as Clean Energy Leads

December 18, 2025, 2:26 PM EST. On Thursday, PBW (Invesco WilderHill Clean Energy ETF) rose about 3.6%, led by FuelCell Energy up ~35% and T1 Energy up ~15.3%. In contrast, SLVR (Sprott Silver Miners & Physical Silver ETF) fell about 4.9%, with New Pacific Metals down ~3.3% and Triple Flag Precious Metals down ~1.2%. The video tag notes Thursday's ETF Movers: PBW, SLVR. The views expressed are those of the author, not Nasdaq.

KRMA Sees Unusual Volume as Nvidia, Tesla Lead in Global X Conscious Companies ETF

December 18, 2025, 2:25 PM EST. In afternoon trading, KRMA saw unusual volume after more than 1.1 million shares changed hands vs a three-month avg around 84,000. The Global X Conscious Companies ETF is higher by about 1%. Among its components, Nvidia led volume at roughly 88.1 million shares and rose about 1.9%, while Tesla advanced about 4.3% on about 54.2 million shares. Micron Technology was the day's standout mover, up roughly 12.1%, whereas FactSet Research Systems lagged, slipping about 7.7%. The bout of activity highlights broad buying among memory and AI-adjacent names amid the ETF's focus on conscious-companies themes.

Biggest IPOs of 2025 and how they performed

December 18, 2025, 2:24 PM EST. Medline led 2025's IPOs with a $6.26 billion float, bigger than any issue this year and signaling a robust listing window. In three quarters, 176 companies went public, making 2025 the strongest year for U.S. IPOs since 2021. Among the biggest post-listing movers: Aura Minerals surged about 92% since its July debut, pushing its market cap near $3.9 billion; Circle Internet Group opened at $69 and has gained roughly 168% from its $31 initial price, with a current market cap near $19.5 billion; Miami International traded up about 88.5% from its $23 start, with a $3.5 billion market cap. The IPO cycle remains active, with new listings contributing to the broader market rally.

EastGroup Properties Valuation After Share-Price Upswing: Is the Upside Justified?

December 18, 2025, 2:23 PM EST. EastGroup Properties (EGP) has posted steady gains as demand for industrial real estate remains robust, with the stock trading around $182.51 and a 90-day return of 8.37% supporting a 3-year TSR near 35%. A nose-bleed valuation vs. peers is indicated by a P/E around 39.1x versus a fair multiple of ~33.5x and industry peers at ~27.7x, suggesting investors are paying for quality. The analysis argues the stock is UNDERVALUED with a fair value of $193.85, though upside is contingent on sustained tenant demand and favorable financing conditions. Structural tailwinds – Sunbelt population growth, ongoing e-commerce expansion, and higher occupancy in infill logistics assets – should underpin durable revenue and NOI growth. Risks include slower demand or higher interest costs.

LHX August 2026 Options Spotlight: YieldBoost Signals on 280 Put and 290 Call

December 18, 2025, 2:19 PM EST. Stock Options Channel flags new LHX options trading with the August 2026 expiration. With roughly 246 days to expiry, the chain presents potential premiums for sellers or modest upside for buyers. The 280.00 put currently bids at $18.20, implying a cost basis near $261.80 if sold to open; this out-of-the-money strike affords about a 59% chance the option expires worthless and a potential 6.50% return on cash (9.65% annualized) via the YieldBoost metric. On the upside, the 290.00 call bid sits at $21.80; a covered call against long stock could yield about 10.75% if exercised at expiry. Charts and greeks will evolve, so ongoing tracking matters.

Union Pacific (UNP) August 2026 Options Open: Put at 145 and Covered-Call at 245

December 18, 2025, 2:18 PM EST. Union Pacific (UNP) has new August 2026 options. A PUT at 145 shows a current bid of 0.50, implying a cost basis of about 144.50 if sold to open, roughly a 39% discount to the stock's ~236.34 price. The YieldBoost analysis estimates ~97% odds the put expires worthless. On the CALL side, the 245 strike bids 13.50; a covered-call trade (owning UNP and selling that call) could deliver about a 9.38% total return if called away at expiration. The 245 strike trades at roughly a 4% premium to the current price. The article also notes trailing twelve month charts and fundamental context to inform expectations for the August 2026 cycle.

August 2026 Options Now Open for General Dynamics (GD) – YieldBoost Highlights

December 18, 2025, 2:17 PM EST. General Dynamics (GD) options for the August 2026 expiration are now trading, offering a 246-day horizon for potential premium capture. A notable put at the $330 strike bids $15.80, implying a cost basis of $314.20 if sold to open – about a 3% discount to the current price of roughly $338.52. The odds of the put expiring worthless are estimated at 62%, with a potential yield of 4.79% on cash, or 7.11% annualized (YieldBoost). On the call side, the $350 strike bids $18.50. A covered call, buying GD at $338.52 and selling the $350 call, could deliver about 8.86% total return if the stock is called away at expiration, excluding dividends. Stock Options Channel tracks the odds and provides a chart on the contract detail page.

GLW August 2026 Options Begin Trading: 85 Put and 92.50 Call Spotlight

December 18, 2025, 2:15 PM EST. New GLW August 2026 options opened for trading, a 246-day horizon. The put at $85 bids around $9.35, implying a potential cost basis of $75.65 and about a 61% chance of expiring worthless, or roughly 11.00% on cash and 16.32% annualized as YieldBoost. On the call side, the $92.50 strike bids $10.25; a covered-call using stock at $86.75 could yield about 18.44% if called away, though upside is capped. The $92.50 strike represents about a 7% premium to the current price, and monitoring trailing history plus fundamentals remains prudent.

Ashland (ASH) February 2026 Options Debut: $55 Put and $65 Call Present YieldBoost Opportunities

December 18, 2025, 2:14 PM EST. ASH (Ashland Inc) launches February 2026 options. The put at the $55 strike bids about $0.20, so selling to open would lock in a purchase price of $54.80 after the premium, roughly 7% below the current price of about $59.45. Odds of the put expiring worthless are about 72%, with a 0.36% return on cash and roughly 2.07% annualized per YieldBoost. On the upside, the $65 strike call bids around $0.30; a covered-call using shares bought at $59.45 could yield about 9.84% if called away at expiration (excluding dividends). Stock Options Channel tracks the associated greeks/implied greeks and will post ongoing odds charts; both strikes are currently out-of-the-money.

CAG February 2026 $20 Call: ~12% YieldBoost on Covered-Call Trade

December 18, 2025, 2:13 PM EST. Conagra Brands (CAG) offers a February 2026 call at the $20 strike with a current bid of 0.10. At a stock price of $17.93, selling this call as a covered call would cap upside at $20 but collect the premium, yielding about 12.10% total return if the stock is called away at expiration (excluding dividends). If the option expires worthless, the premium boosts returns by about 0.56% (≈3.18% annualized). The odds of expiration worthless are about 60%. Implied volatility is 27%, versus trailing twelve-month volatility of 25%. This setup highlights a potential YieldBoost opportunity while weighing share-price movement and fundamentals.

ABT August 2026 Options: Put at $90 and Covered Call at $130

December 18, 2025, 2:12 PM EST. Abbott Laboratories (ABT) saw new options begin trading with an August 2026 expiration, about 246 days away. The YieldBoost analysis highlights a put at the $90 strike bid of $0.50 and a call at the $130 strike bid of $7.20. The $90 put would obligate a buyer to own ABT at $90 if sold to open, implying a cost basis of about $89.50 if exercised. With the strike roughly 29% below the current price, odds of expiring worthless are around 91%, per the channel. For the covered call, selling the $130 call against 100 shares purchased at $127.36 yields a potential total return of about 7.73% if called away. The analysis emphasizes tracking greeks and ABT's fundamentals.

CCK February 2026 Options Begin Trading

December 18, 2025, 2:11 PM EST. CCK's February 2026 options began trading for Crown Holdings Inc. The put at the $100.00 strike shows a current bid of $0.65, meaning a seller to open would gain the premium and set a cost basis of roughly $99.35 per share (before commissions), about a 4% discount to the $104.29 stock price. The odds of the put expiring worthless are about 68%, with a potential 0.65% return on cash (or 3.71% annualized) per YieldBoost. On the call side, the $105.00 strike bids $2.75. A covered call would imply a ~3.32% return if the stock is called away at expiration, while still exposing some upside. Data and greeks are tracked on the contract page.

HUM August 2026 Options Begin Trading: YieldBoost Highlights Put and Covered-Call Opportunities

December 18, 2025, 2:10 PM EST. Investors in Humana Inc. (HUM) gained new options expiring in August 2026, creating potential yields for sellers and strategic plays for buyers. The $260 put carries a current bid near $31.80, implying a cost basis of about $228.20 if sold to open. With the strike roughly 2% out-of-the-money, the odds of expiring worthless are around 60% per YieldBoost. If it expires worthless, the premium would yield about 12.23% on cash – or 18.15% annualized. On the upside, the $275 call presents a covered-call setup: buy HUM at the current level and sell the call for a bid around $33.20, targeting a total return of 16.48% if the stock is called away. The article also notes HUM's trailing twelve-month history and fundamentals.

KR February 2026 Options Begin Trading: Put at $60 and Covered Call at $65

December 18, 2025, 2:09 PM EST. Investors in Kroger Co (KR) saw new February 2026 options begin trading. A $60 put shows a current bid around $0.30, implying a potential cost basis of about $59.70 if sold-to-open, roughly a 5% discount to the current stock price (~$63.09). The odds of the put expiring worthless are about 68%, with a 0.50% cash return and about 2.85% annualized if held to expiration (YieldBoost). On the call side, a $65 call bids around $0.95 and could yield a 4.53% total return if the stock is called away at expiration when the shares are around $63.09. A covered-call setup would combine stock ownership with the premium while downside risk remains.

Euronext wheat steadies after slide as euro relief boosts export competitiveness

December 18, 2025, 2:07 PM EST. European wheat prices on Euronext edged higher on Thursday, steadying after a slide that pushed the market technically oversold. March wheat (BL2H6) settled 0.4% higher at 186.00 euros per metric ton, rebounding from a contract low of 185.00 euros. Chicago wheat also recovered from eight-week lows. A softer euro after a cooler-than-expected U.S. inflation print helped keep western European wheat competitive with the Black Sea supply. A German trader said West EU wheat remains price-competitive, with potential new export sales if the euro persists. German 12.5% protein wheat shipments to Africa supported by favorable shipping costs; barley exports remained brisk in Western Europe. Despite ample global supply, expectations of a larger Argentine harvest and ongoing Russia exports keep a lid on gains. Technicals and possible demand surprises could drive further moves.

Chip Rally Drives Broad Market Gains as Inflation Cools and Fed-Cut Bets Rise

December 18, 2025, 2:06 PM EST. Stocks climbed with the S&P 500 up ~1.28%, the Dow +0.82%, and the Nasdaq 100 +1.91%, as a rebound in chip stocks lifted sentiment after Micron surged more than 11% on an upbeat forecast. Futures pointed higher, and the day's gains were aided by softer US inflation data: November CPI rose +2.7% YoY (core +2.6%), under expectations, and weekly jobless claims fell to 224,000. The drop in bond yields reinforced expectations for further Fed rate cuts, with the 10-year yield at about 4.10%. The Philadelphia Fed index slid, underscoring mixed near-term signals. Market focus shifts to existing home sales and the University of Michigan sentiment index, while investors price in a roughly 27% chance of a 25bp Fed cut at the January meeting. Overseas markets mixed.

Viking Therapeutics VKTX: A Convincing Bull Case Centered on VK2735, VK2809 and Cash Runway

December 18, 2025, 2:05 PM EST. Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) is touted as a rare, independent biotech playing in the GLP-1/GIP obesity and diabetes space, with a dual-asset strategy. Lead program VK2735 targets obesity and type 2 diabetes, showing ~14-15% mean weight loss over 13 weeks in Phase 2 and a strong tolerability profile, while advancing two pivotal trials: VANQUISH (injectable) and VENTURE-Oral, the latter potentially expanding patient reach through an oral formulation. The second asset, VK2809, is a liver-targeted THR-β agonist for NASH with notable liver-fat reductions in Phase 2. Financially, Viking ended Q3 2025 with about $715 million in cash and no debt, suggesting runway into Phase 3 without near-term dilution. Commercialization of VK2735 is expected around 2028, with profitability in 2029-2030. Base-case EV around $11.5B with meaningful upside and potential for M&A.

Gamehost Inc. (TSE: GH) Stock Rises 3.3% as ROE Highlights Profitable Growth

December 18, 2025, 2:02 PM EST. Gamehost Inc. (TSE: GH) has risen 3.3% over the past week, as investors weigh its solid fundamentals. The company posts an ROE of 18% (TTM to Sep 2025), comfortably above the industry average of 10%, helped by about 30% net income growth over five years. A high earnings retention rate (payout around 50%) supports growth while enabling generous dividends, paid for at least ten years. The combination of strong profitability, a long dividend history, and disciplined capital allocation suggests upside potential if earnings continue to outpace peers. However, investors should assess whether the price already reflects this growth and how future returns compare with other stocks, given the variability of growth drivers and valuation metrics.

Finance pros weigh in on Nasdaq's plan for round-the-clock stock trading

December 18, 2025, 2:01 PM EST. Finance pros weigh in on Nasdaq's plan for round-the-clock stock trading, unpacking how 24/7 U.S. equity trading could reshape liquidity, volatility, and price discovery. Traders, fund managers, and exchange operators say longer hours may boost accessibility for international investors and align U.S. markets with global sessions, yet raise concerns about risk management, system resilience, and the need for robust circuit-breaker rules. Critics fear unequal participation, potential after-hours manipulation, and strain on data feeds and compliance processes, while supporters argue that phased pilots and thorough testing could unlock tighter spreads and more accurate pricing. Regulators will weigh governance, cybersecurity, and fair access as the plan moves from concept toward implementation.

Danaos Corporation: Insiders Own a Majority Stake, Giving Them Significant Control (NYSE:DAC)

December 18, 2025, 2:00 PM EST. Danaos Corporation (NYSE:DAC) features a dominant insider ownership profile, with insiders controlling a majority of the float. The CEO John Koustas is the largest shareholder, holding roughly half of the company's shares, amplifying insider influence over strategic decisions. Other insiders hold meaningful minority stakes (the next two largest holders around 2.3% and 2.2%). Institutional investors also participate, but the large insider stake suggests strong alignment with shareholders while raising concentration risk. Analyst coverage is limited, so the stock's trajectory depends on earnings growth and insiders' ongoing decisions. Investors should monitor any shifts in insider ownership and the company's earnings outlook, as outcomes largely hinge on the actions of the insider group.

First year without Viking Global's veteran leader leaves $55B hedge fund lagging Tiger Cub peers

December 18, 2025, 1:59 PM EST. Viking Global Investors, entering its first full year without a longtime investing leader, posted softer results. With $55 billion in assets, the hedge fund appears to be lagging behind its Tiger Cub peers, who have benefited from more nimble positioning and different sector exposures. Analysts point to leadership transition and a strategic reset as factors weighing on performance and inflows. While Tiger Cubs have highlighted momentum in certain catalysts and tech names, Viking Global faced concentrated positions and slower realization of new ideas under the new regime. The outcome underscores how leadership change can affect risk appetite, client sentiment, and competitive dynamics within the Tiger Cubs cohort.

Renault S.A. Reports Total Voting Rights and Share Capital as of November 30, 2025

December 18, 2025, 1:58 PM EST. Renault S.A. reports its latest governance metrics as of November 30, 2025. The Total issued shares are 295,722,284, the Theoretical voting rights total 403,739,307, and the Exercisable voting rights amount to 397,815,340. Disclosure is pursuant to Article L. 233-8 II of the French Commercial Code and Article 223-16 of the AMF Regulation. Issuer: Renault S.A. (ISIN FR0000131906 – RNO).

TSN February 2026 Options Spotlight: Put at 57.50, Covered Call at 60

December 18, 2025, 1:56 PM EST. Investors in Tyson Foods Inc (TSN) have new February 2026 options to watch. The put at the $57.50 strike bids about $0.05, and with TSN near $58.28, the strike sits roughly 1% below the current price, keeping the put slightly out-of-the-money. Selling to open would imply a cost basis near $57.45 after the premium, presenting a potential cushion if shares dip. YieldBoost places the odds of the option expiring worthless around 57%. On the call side, the $60.00 strike also bids around $0.05. A covered call against TSN bought at $58.28 could yield roughly 3.04% if called away at expiration, though upside remains capped.

PCG February 2026 Options Begin Trading: Covered Call YieldBoost Signals 4.56% Return

December 18, 2025, 1:55 PM EST. PCG February 2026 options have begun trading for PG&E Corp. A $16.00 strike call shows a current bid around $0.50. A strategy: buy PCG at about $15.78 and sell-to-open the call as a covered call, locking in a potential total return of 4.56% if the stock is called away at the February 2026 expiration (excluding commissions). If PCG stays above $16, upside is capped; if the option expires worthless, the premium adds about 3.17% to return, or roughly 18.07% annualized via YieldBoost. Implied volatility on the contract is about 67%, versus a trailing twelve-month stock volatility around 31%. The article notes the odds of the option expiring worthless are about 46%, with the team tracking this on their contract pages.

Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) August 2026 Options Spotlight: Put at $125 and Covered Call at $130

December 18, 2025, 1:54 PM EST. Stock Options Channel highlights new GPC August 2026 options with a notable put at the $125 strike and a call at the $130 strike. The $125 put bids around $6.90, implying a cost basis of about $118.10 if sold to open, roughly 2% in the money. Odds of the put expiring worthless are about 59%, yielding an estimated 5.52% return on cash and about 8.19% annualized as a YieldBoost. The $130 call bid sits near $8.60; in a covered call scenario, buying GPC at roughly $127.48 and selling the call could yield about 8.72% if the stock is called away at expiration. The report notes potential upside may be capped, and investors should examine the trailing 12-month history and fundamentals.

GGG August 2026 Options Begin Trading: Notable Puts and Covered Calls

December 18, 2025, 1:53 PM EST. Graco Inc (GGG) saw August 2026 options begin trading, with roughly 246 days to expiration. The new contracts offer longer time value, potentially higher premiums for sellers of puts or calls compared to nearer maturities. Stock Options Channel's YieldBoost identified a notable put at the $80 strike and a notable call at the $85 strike. The $80 put bids at $1.55, implying a cost basis of $78.45 if sold to open, about a 5% discount to the current price around $83.97, with a roughly 67% chance of expiring worthless. The $85 call is bid at $3.60; selling it as a covered call could yield about 5.51% total return if called away at expiration. The analysis also notes recent trailing twelve month price action and fundamentals.

IP February 2026 Options: Put at 37.50 and Covered Call at 40.00 with YieldBoost

December 18, 2025, 1:52 PM EST. Investors in IP have new February 2026 options. The put at the $37.50 strike bids around $0.35, implying a cost basis of $37.15 if sold to open and exercised later. The current odds of expiring worthless are about 61%, with a 0.93% return on cash, or 5.32% annualized via YieldBoost. On the call side, the $40.00 strike bid is about $0.55. A covered call using IP stock at $38.90 could yield about 4.24% if the stock is called away at expiration. Both strikes are out-of-the-money, shaping risk/reward and upside potential.

DXC February 2026 Options Begin Trading: $14 Put, $17 Call Highlight YieldBoost

December 18, 2025, 1:51 PM EST. Investors in DXC Technology Co (DXC) saw the February 2026 options begin trading. A put at the $14.00 strike bids around 20 cents, meaning selling to open could lock in a $1.43 premium-adjusted cost basis of about $13.80 if assigned, a roughly 9% discount to the $15.33 stock price. Odds of the put expiring worthless are estimated at about 68%, per YieldBoost, offering a potential 1.43% return on cash, or about 8.15% annualized if it expires worthless. On the call side, the $17.00 strike bids around 15 cents. A covered call at current price could yield about 11.87% total return if shares are called away, though upside would be capped. Chart visuals accompany both legs.

HRB February 2026 Options Begin Trading; Covered Call at $45 Strike

December 18, 2025, 1:50 PM EST. HRB (H&R Block) saw new options for the February 2026 expiration begin trading. The standout contract is the $45 strike call, currently bid at 0.35, creating a potential covered call setup for a stock near $43.60. If you buy HRB and sell this call, the total return could be about 4.01% if the stock is called away at expiration (net of commissions). A lot of upside remains if HRB shares rally, while the premium provides a YieldBoost when the contract expires worthless, estimated around 4.58% annualized. The trade sits about 3% in the money. Implied volatility is about 35%, versus about 26% trailing 12-month volatility. More ideas at StockOptionsChannel.com.

Galliford Try Holdings plc: PDMR Disclosure – Sale of Shares by Kristen Baxter

December 18, 2025, 1:49 PM EST. Galliford Try Holdings plc has issued a notification under the UK Market Abuse Regulation detailing a sale of shares by a PDMR and a person closely associated. Kristen Baxter, associated with Mark Baxter (MD, Specialist Services), sold ordinary shares (50p, ISIN GB00BKY40Q38) on 18 December 2025 on the London Stock Exchange. The transaction was executed in several tranches at prices around £5.23-£5.25 per share, with volumes ranging from thousands to ten-thousands per tranche. Aggregated information is listed as N/A. The filing confirms the transaction occurred on the XLON and provides issuer contact details for further information. This is standard regulatory disclosure to support market transparency for listed companies.

DTE Energy February 2026 Options: 125 Put and 130 Call Spotlight

December 18, 2025, 1:48 PM EST. Stock Options Channel flags new February 2026 options for DTE Energy Co (DTE). The standout put is the 125 strike, bid ~0.30. Selling to open would lock in a purchase price of 125 and keep the premium, implying a ~$124.70 cost basis before commissions-about 3% below the current price. The odds of the put expiring worthless are estimated at 67%, with a 0.24% return on cash (1.37% annualized) via YieldBoost if it expires worthless. On the call side, the 130 strike bid is ~2.45. A covered call – owning DTE at ~129.29 and selling the 130 call – yields about 2.44% if called away at expiration, with potential upside left. The piece notes trailing-12-month history and fundamental context for DTE.

Micron Leads S&P 500 Movers as ServiceNow Dives; MU Gains, NOW Falls

December 18, 2025, 1:47 PM EST. In early trading, Micron Technology (MU) topped the S&P 500 movers, up 15.3%, lifting its year-to-date gain to an astounding 209.1%. The worst performer so far is ServiceNow (NOW), down about 80.1% on the session and roughly 85.3% year-to-date. Other notable moves include Western Digital (+8.2%) and HP (-5.1%). The day underscores wide dispersion among big-name components as investors weigh fundamentals and rotation within the S&P 500. VIDEO: S&P 500 Movers: NOW, MU. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily Nasdaq, Inc.

ADM February 2026 Options Debut: $55 Put and $60 Covered-Call Highlights

December 18, 2025, 1:46 PM EST. Archer Daniels Midland Co. (ADM) began trading its February 2026 options today. The highlight: a put at $55 with a current bid of $1.20. Selling to open would give you a cash outlay of about $53.80 per share (net of premium) versus a current price around $58.92, a roughly 7% discount. YieldBoost shows about a 72% chance the put expires worthless, implying a 2.18% one-time return (or ~12.44% annualized) on the cash committed. On the call side, the call at $60 with bid $1.85. A covered call would buy ADM at $58.92 and sell the $60 call for about a 4.97% potential return if called away. The $60 strike trades at roughly a 2% premium to the current price. Trailing 12-month history highlights the strikes.

February 2026 Options Now Available for Coeur Mining (CDE) – Covered Call Idea at $17.50

December 18, 2025, 1:45 PM EST. This article notes that February 2026 options for CDE have begun trading, spotlighting a covered call at the $17.50 strike. With Coeur Mining around $17.34, selling to open the call yields a 25-cent premium and a potential 2.36% total return if the stock is called away at expiration. If the option expires worthless, investors keep the stock and premium-a scenario the analysis assigns about 45% odds to. The piece also highlights YieldBoost implications, including roughly 8.22% annualized after a 1.44% premium. Implied volatility sits near 83%, compared with roughly 67% trailing volatility. For more ideas, see StockOptionsChannel.com and the contract detail pages.

KMX February 2026 Options Begin Trading: Put at $35 and Covered Call at $50

December 18, 2025, 1:44 PM EST. Stock Options Channel flags new February 2026 contracts for CarMax Inc. (KMX). The put at the $35 strike bids around $0.50, implying a cost basis of about $34.50 if sold to open – roughly 14% below the current price and about a 77% chance the option expires worthless, per YieldBoost. A $35 put could yield about 1.43% on cash, or around 8.15% annualized, if it decays to zero. On the call side, the $50 strike call bids near $0.50; a covered call using current price around $40.50 could deliver about 24.69% total return if called away, with about 23% premium to the stock. The piece also notes trailing-12-month history, fundamentals, and greeks for context.

GBCI February 2026 Options Open; YieldBoost Highlights $45 Put

December 18, 2025, 1:43 PM EST. Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (GBCI) saw new February 2026 options listed. The standout is the $45 strike put, currently bid at 0.05. If you sell to open, you agree to buy GBCI at $45, but collect the premium, creating a cost basis of $44.95 (before commissions). That ~2% discount to the current price (out-of-the-money) offers an optional path if you're eyeing shares at a lower cost than today's $45.71. Implied volatility on the put is about 37%, while trailing 12-month volatility runs around 33%. The odds the contract expires worthless are about 56%, per Stock Options Channel's YieldBoost tracking. If it expires worthless, the return on cash is ~0.11% (0.63% annualized).

Dollar Recovers as EUR/USD Weakens on Eurozone Fiscal Concerns; Fed Chair Speculation Looms

December 18, 2025, 1:42 PM EST. The dollar index edged up +0.09% after an early dip as EUR/USD weakened on Eurozone fiscal concerns. US data showed weekly jobless claims at 224,000 and Nov CPI up 2.7% y/y (core CPI 2.6%), with the Dec Philadelphia Fed index at -10.2, signaling softer activity. Markets price roughly a 27% chance of a 25 bp FOMC cut in January. The ECB left rates at 2.00% and lifted 2025 GDP to 1.4%, with Lagarde calling the economy resilient. The Fed is expanding liquidity via about $40 billion a month in T-bills, supporting the dollar's edge. Speculation over a dovish Fed Chair persists, with Kevin Hassett frequently mentioned. USD/JPY slipped as the yen rose on dollar weakness.

Cybin Transfers U.S. Listing to Nasdaq, Rebrands as Helus Pharma with Ticker HELP

December 18, 2025, 1:41 PM EST. Cybin Inc. announced it will voluntarily transfer its U.S. stock exchange listing from NYSE American to Nasdaq Global Market, with shares ceasing trading on NYSE American at market close Jan 4, 2026 and trading on Nasdaq at market open Jan 5, 2026. Concurrently, the company will do business as Helus Pharma and will trade under the ticker symbol HELP (instead of CYBN). The company will continue to be listed on Cboe Canada under the new HELP ticker. CEO Eric So called it the next step in Cybin's evolution into a global pharmaceutical company. Cybin's pipeline includes CYB003 (Phase 3 for MDD) with FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation and CYB004 (Phase 2 for GAD).

FTSE 100 climbs as BoE cuts rates; pound strengthens

December 18, 2025, 1:40 PM EST. London stocks closed higher after the Bank of England cut rates 25bp to 3.75% in a 5-4 MPC vote, supporting the FTSE 100 which rose about 0.7% to 9,837.77. The FTSE 250 and AIM All-Share also gained. The decision, alongside the ECB holding rates, lifted sentiment as analysts noted a potential Christmas cheer for households and businesses but warned of hawkish undertones from several MPC members. Inflation is expected to fall toward the 2% target in the spring, though some see a higher-for-longer path. The pound strengthened to around $1.3387. European markets were broadly higher, with the ECB maintaining policy but signaling a cautious outlook.

ASX 200 to rise as Wall Street lifts on revived January rate-cut hopes

December 18, 2025, 1:39 PM EST. ASX 200 to rise as Wall Street lifts on revived January rate-cut hopes. Australian shares are set to open higher following New York's move after November CPI undershot expectations, reviving bets on a January rate cut. CPI rose 2.7% year over year, with core at 2.6%, nudging Fed doves and lifting sentiment for two rate cuts in 2026, possibly in the first half. In the US, major indices pared gains midday but remain in positive territory, with Tesla leading among the megacap techs. The ASX 200 futures imply a 0.5% rise to around 8,611, while markets watch for the Bank of Japan meeting and upcoming NZ data. Key takeaway: inflation undershoot fuels bets for looser policy.

Nasdaq 100 Movers: MU Gains 15.3% as CMCSA Sags; Lam Research Up, Diamondback Energy Down

December 18, 2025, 1:34 PM EST. In Thursday's early trade, Micron Technology (MU) led the Nasdaq 100's movers, climbing about 15.3%, with a staggering year-to-date gain of 209.1%. In contrast, Comcast (CMCSA) edged lower, down roughly 1.7%, dragging its YTD performance to about −20.6%. Also moving: Diamondback Energy slipped around 1.6%, while Lam Research jumped about 7.3% on the day. The market snapshot highlights continued dispersion among large-cap tech and energy components, with MU's strength contrasting CMCSA's softness and Lam Research's rebound amid mixed sector momentum.

UL CLV Advertising Media Ltd Approaches IPO Milestone, Signals Growth and Global Expansion

December 18, 2025, 1:33 PM EST. UL CLV Advertising Media Ltd is poised to complete its IPO, marking a pivotal milestone in its growth journey. The listing, expected to wrap up with a restructuring in mid-March 2026, elevates UL as a rising global force in media and digital marketing. The company highlights its innovation-driven growth, customer-centricity, and quality-driven sustainability, while committing to high standards of transparency as a multinational regulated by the United Kingdom and United States. CEO Ethan Carter (UL North America) praises employees, regulators, investors, and partners for support. Post-IPO, UL intends to expand global markets, strengthen governance, and elevate corporate value and brand influence, unlocking broader opportunities on an international platform.

Elon Fever Rides Tesla Higher as SpaceX IPO Buzz Grows

December 18, 2025, 1:32 PM EST. Tesla is back in the spotlight as investors price in Elon Musk's broader agenda in AI, robotics, and space. The shares hit a fresh yearly high, rising roughly 20% over four weeks and about 111% from its April low tied to tariff fears. The stock trades near 214x forward earnings, making it one of the most expensive in the S&P 500 and fueling debate over valuation amid slowing auto sales and tighter regulation. Fans cite Tesla's potential shift toward autonomous driving, robotaxis, and humanoid robots. The SpaceX insider sale could value the company at around $800 billion and possibly spark an IPO next year, which some see as a tailwind for Tesla while others worry about rotation selling.

Leonsis: Monumental Adopts Pre-IPO Mindset as Investors Push for Financial Rigor

December 18, 2025, 1:30 PM EST. Monumental Sports & Entertainment isn't public, but CEO Zachary Leonsis says the company is acting like a pre-IPO business – tightening financial discipline and monetization thinking as it scales. A shakeup of investors reflects that shift: QIA and Arctos Partners are increasing stakes by buying from Laurene Powell Jobs, lifting Monumental's estimated enterprise value to about $7.2 billion from $4.05 billion two years ago. The new partners are passive, minority, long-term holders who expect strong performance but don't take board seats. Despite talks of becoming public someday, Leonsis says there is no immediate plan for an IPO. The group has built a modern sports platform-franchises and venues in DC-while pursuing growth externally and keeping the geocentric focus in mind.

HNI February 2026 Options: Covered Call at $45 Strike Promises ~3.9% Yield Boost

December 18, 2025, 1:29 PM EST. Investors in HNI Corp (Symbol: HNI) have access to new February 2026 options, including a $45 strike call with a current bid of 0.05. If you own the stock at about $43.37 and sell this call as a covered call, you lock in a 3.87% total return if the stock is called away at expiration (excluding dividends). If the option expires worthless, the premium adds about 0.12% to return (0.66% annualized) via the YieldBoost metric. The contract carries an implied volatility of about 43%, versus ~31% trailing 12-month volatility. Odds of the call expiring worthless sit around 54%. StockOptionsChannel tracks these metrics over time.

February 2026 BVN Options Debut: Put at $28 and Covered Call at $29 With YieldBoost

December 18, 2025, 1:28 PM EST. Investors now have new February 2026 options on Compania de Minas Buenaventura (BVN). The put at the $28.00 strike shows a 10-cent bid. Selling to open would lock in a purchase price of about $27.90 per share (before commissions) if exercised, potentially cheaper than the current price near $28.23. The put is out-of-the-money by about 1%, with the odds of expiration worthless around 53% and a 0.36% return on cash, or about 2.04% annualized per YieldBoost. On the call side, the $29.00 strike has a 5-cent bid. A covered call using shares bought at $28.23 could yield about 2.90% if called away at expiration, with upside limited. BVN's trailing history and fundamentals frame the setup.

TAP February 2026 Options Spotlight: Put at $47.50 and Covered Call at $52.50

December 18, 2025, 1:27 PM EST. Investors in Molson Coors Beverage Co (TAP) saw new February 2026 options on the tape. The highlighted put at $47.50 bids around 0.05, implying a potential cost basis of $47.45 if sold-to-open and a roughly 1% discount to the current price (~$48.07). The analysis shows about a 56% chance the put expires worthless, yielding a YieldBoost of about 0.11% on cash (0.60% annualized). On the calls side, the $52.50 strike calls bid ~0.40, enabling a covered call strategy if you own TAP at ~$48.07; a call away would yield ~10.05% total return (excluding dividends). A roughly 9% premium to the current price, leaving upside if shares rise. The report notes historical charts and fundamentals for context, with odds tracked over time.

VNO February 2026 Covered Call on $34 Strike Draws YieldBoost Interest

December 18, 2025, 1:26 PM EST. Vornado Realty Trust (VNO) options activity centers on a February 2026 call at the $34 strike, with a current bid around $0.10. The piece highlights a covered call idea: buy VNO near $33.75 and sell the $34 call, targeting about a 1.04% total return if the stock is called away at expiration (dividends excluded). If the contract expires worthless, the investor keeps the premium (about 0.30% boost or roughly 1.69% annualized as YieldBoost). The model shows an implied volatility around 39% and a trailing 12-month volatility near 38%. StockOptionsChannel tracks the evolving odds of exercise and related charts, but readers should also review fundamentals and the stock's historical performance before trading.

MMC Feb 2026 Options Spotlight: 185 Put and 190 Call With YieldBoost

December 18, 2025, 1:25 PM EST. Marsh & McLennan Companies (MMC) unveils new February 2026 options, spotlighting a $185 put and a $190 call identified by Stock Options Channel's YieldBoost. If you sell-to-open the $185 put, you lock in an effective basis of $181.20 by taking on a 185 strike, about 1% under the current $186.18 price; odds of expiring worthless are ~57%, implying a 2.05% return on cash (11.71% annualized) if the contract expires worthless. On the call side, selling a covered call at $190 against owning MMC stock at ~$186.18 yields ~4.04% total return if called away at expiry. If not exercised, you keep the shares and the premium. YieldBoost will continue tracking the odds and updates.

February 2026 Options Now Available for Blackstone Mortgage Trust (BXMT)

December 18, 2025, 1:24 PM EST. Investors in Blackstone Mortgage Trust Inc (BXMT) have new Feb 2026 options. The put at the $18.00 strike trades with a bid of $0.05, enabling a sell-to-open that secures a cost basis of $17.95 (before commissions) if assigned. That strike sits roughly 11% below the current price, offering an estimated 78% chance the option expires worthless, per YieldBoost analytics; the premium would yield about 0.28% on cash and ~1.58% annualized. On the call side, the $21.00 strike bid is $0.05; a covered call using BXMT at $20.25 could produce ~3.95% total return if called away. The $21 strike implies ~4% premium to the stock, with potential upside if shares rise; charts and history are provided.

February 2026 Options Now Trading for Berkley Corp (WRB)

December 18, 2025, 1:23 PM EST. New options began trading for Berkley Corp (WRB) with February 2026 expiries. The put at the $67.50 strike carries a current bid of 5 cents; selling to open would set a cost basis of about $67.45 after the premium, roughly 2% below the present price of $69.10. The YieldBoost data imply about a 61% chance the put expires worthless. A selected call at the $70.00 strike bids 25 cents; a covered call using stock at $69.10 could deliver about 1.66% return if the stock is called away at February 2026 expiration. If the call expires worthless, the investor keeps the premium. The report underscores tracking the trailing history and fundamentals.

Six Flags FUN: February 2026 Options Debut; Covered Call Could Yield ~1.93% Annualized

December 18, 2025, 1:22 PM EST. Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (FUN) saw the launch of new February 2026 options. A covered call written against buying FUN at about $14.78 with the $15 strike could yield a total return of roughly 1.83% if the stock is called away at expiration, plus the premium. If the option expires worthless, the premium would boost annualized returns to about 1.93% (0.34% upfront). The current YieldBoost odds put a ~43% chance of that outcome. Implied volatility sits near 86%, versus about 63% trailing 12-month volatility. Investors should weigh upside potential against capped gains and consult the option chain vs fundamentals. More ideas at StockOptionsChannel.

February 2026 Options Now Available for Encompass Health (EHC)

December 18, 2025, 1:21 PM EST. Encompass Health Corp (EHC) options for the February 2026 expiration are now listed. At Stock Options Channel, the YieldBoost analysis flags a $105 put with a current bid of $1.00, offering a potential cost basis of $104.00 for a sell-to-open, about a 3% discount to the current price around $108.14. The odds of the put expiring worthless are about 65%, with a potential 0.95% return on cash (5.43% annualized) if it expires worthless. On the call side, the $110 strike has a $2.50 bid, enabling a covered call against shares bought near $108.14 for about 4.03% potential return if called away. Both legs are illustrated with trailing 12-month charts and fundamentals.

Lennar LEN August 2026 Options Highlight $105 Put and $115 Call

December 18, 2025, 1:19 PM EST. Investors in Lennar Corp (LEN) now have new August 2026 options. The 246-day expiration highlights a put at the $105.00 strike with a current bid of $8.30, enabling a potential purchase price of $96.70 after premium if sold to open. The odds of the put expiring worthless are listed around 63%, with a YieldBoost potential of 7.90% and about 11.73% annualized. On the call side, the $115.00 strike bids $10.60; a covered-call on LEN at roughly $109.06 stock price could yield about 15.17% if called away at expiration. Stock Options Channel will chart the odds and provide the contract detail pages. The analysis notes the 5% premium to the current price for the premium saver.

BHP Group August 2026 Options Open: Put 42.50 and Covered Call 60

December 18, 2025, 1:19 PM EST. Stock Options Channel highlights the new August 2026 options for BHP Group Ltd (BHP). The standout is a $42.50 put with a 65-cent bid, which, if sold to open, yields a $41.85 effective cost basis on shares of roughly $42 now (before commissions). At ~28% out-of-the-money, the put has about a 91% probability of expiring worthless, per YieldBoost analytics, implying a potential 1.53% return on cash, or 2.27% annualized. On the call side, a $60.00 call has a $4.70 bid; selling it against $59.37 stock to establish a covered call could deliver ~8.98% total return if called away, with upside capped. The piece notes the trailing-12-month chart and fundamentals to gauge risk and upside potential.

February 2026 Options Now Available for Kemper (KMPR) – YieldBoost on a $40 Put

December 18, 2025, 1:17 PM EST. Kemper Corp (KMPR) has new February 2026 options with a notable $40 put. The bid on the put is 0.10, so selling to open would obligate you to buy KMPR at $40, while pocketing the premium and achieving an estimated cost basis of $39.90 (before commissions). With the strike about 1% below the current price, the contract is out-of-the-money and the odds of expiring worthless are about 57%, according to Stock Options Channel's YieldBoost metrics. If it expires worthless, the return on cash would be roughly 0.25% (1.43% annualized). Current implied volatility on the put sits around 43%, versus a trailing twelve-month volatility near 41%. StockOptionsChannel.com tracks these figures and provides further ideas.

HXL February 2026 Options: $70 Put and $75 Call Highlighted

December 18, 2025, 1:16 PM EST. Hexcel Corp. (HXL) introduced new February 2026 options, highlighted by a $70 put and a $75 call. The put trades at a current bid of $0.65; selling to open would set a cost basis of about $69.35 per share (before commissions), roughly 5% below the $73.76 trading level. The odds the put expires worthless are about 66% per Stock Options Channel's YieldBoost analysis, yielding roughly 0.93% on cash, or ~5.3% annualized if it expires worthless. On the call side, the $75 call bid is $1.40. A covered-call setup-buy at current prices and sell to open the call-yields about 3.58% if the stock is called away at expiration, with the strike about 2% above the current price. The article notes trailing history and fundamentals for context.

Dow Movers: Home Depot Leads Dow, Apple Dips; AAPL, HD Stand Out

December 18, 2025, 1:14 PM EST. In early trading Thursday, Home Depot (HD) led the Dow Jones Industrial Average higher, up about 2.5%. Year to date, HD has shed roughly 6.0%. In contrast, Apple (AAPL) was the laggard for the Dow, trading down about 1.5% on the day, though the stock reports a year-to-date gain of 6.9%. Other moves included UnitedHealth Group (UNH) down about 1.2% and Caterpillar (CAT) up roughly 1.9%. The session reflects mixed sentiment among the index's components, with traditional consumer names helping lift the index while a tech heavyweight weighs on the intraday performance.

Nasdaq, Inc. Returns to Best Stocks List as It Targets a Breakout

December 18, 2025, 1:13 PM EST. Nasdaq, Inc. (NDAQ) returns to The Best Stocks in the Market list as IPO activity and a booming listings cycle bolster its tech-enabled financials narrative. The stock has spent six months consolidating its spring rally near all-time highs, setting up a potential breakout. Sean frames Nasdaq's evolution from a pure exchange to a diversified financial services firm, with a robust fintech footprint and multi-segment growth. The firm commands scale across 19 exchanges and the largest U.S. options market, with operating margins north of 40% in key segments. Capital Access Platforms generated $546 million in revenue, highlighting data, index licensing, and workflow solutions driving margin resilience. Watch for a breakout fueled by tech-driven momentum and listings activity.

Nasdaq, Inc. Returns to The Best Stocks List as IPO Revival Sets Up a Breakout for NDAQ

December 18, 2025, 1:12 PM EST. Nasdaq, Inc. (NDAQ) is back on The Best Stocks in the Market list as the IPO market revives and listings activity booms. The company has evolved from a pure exchange into a diversified financial-tech player with three segments focused on financial technology, data products, and listings/workflow solutions. Nasdaq operates 19 venues across assets and six option exchanges, underpinning a massive scale and solid margins. Sean highlights Nasdaq's origin as the world's first electronic market, its cloud transition, and SEC approval for the first AI-powered exchange order type. With about $34.4 trillion in market cap listed on Nasdaq as of end-2024 and a fintech-heavy growth profile, NDAQ could challenge recent highs and break out again.

Coinbase Valuation Reassessment After Month-Long Slide

December 18, 2025, 1:11 PM EST. Coinbase Global (COIN) has drifted lower over the past month as crypto sentiment wobbles, quietly repricing expectations. The stock sits in a choppy year with a 90-day return near 28.7% but a three-year TSR above 600%, signaling cooling momentum but a powerful long-term thesis. With volatility rising, investors may scan for other AI/high-growth tech names as a benchmark. At recent levels around $244.19, the market hints at a higher future earnings power, backed by Coinbase's leadership in trusted infrastructure and partnerships with BlackRock, PNC, JPMorgan, Stripe, and Shopify. The question remains: is this a rare chance to own future crypto infrastructure cheaply, or has the next growth leg already been priced in? A DCF-driven fair value around $383.46 contrasts with a community view of near $128, underscoring divergent narratives and key risks like spot volume and cybersecurity costs.

Ron Baron's Contrarian Bet: Profiting From Penalized Growth, Not AI Hype

December 18, 2025, 1:09 PM EST. Billionaire investor Ron Baron says a meaningful slice of his strategy targets overlooked publicly traded companies that the market punishes for investing in long-term growth. While headlines fixate on AI data-center spending, Baron notes many firms trade at deep discounts as they fund expanding profits. He divides his portfolio into three buckets: roughly 30-40% high-growth bets, 50-55% solid double-digit growers, and 10-15% penalized-by-the-market names he believes will soar as earnings compound. He cites recent JPMorgan dynamics-short-term reactions to planned spending and quick recoveries-as a microcosm of his approach. Baron Capital has delivered about $57 billion in profits for shareholders and projects roughly $250 billion in profits over the next decade. His public bets include exposure to SpaceX, Tesla, and xAI.

Ron Baron bets on long-term growth beyond the AI frenzy

December 18, 2025, 1:08 PM EST. Billionaire investor Ron Baron argues the market is mispricing growth opportunities beyond the AI hype. His approach divides holdings into three buckets: about 30-40% in high-growth, 50-55% in solid double-digit growth, and 10-15% in companies penalized by short-term earnings fears but poised for much larger long-term profits. He cites JPMorgan's 2024 spending spike as a microcosm of the dynamic, where sentiment sank stock only to rebound, signaling a buying opportunity for patient investors. Since founding Baron Capital in 1982, the firm has generated roughly $57 billion in profits, with a target of $250 billion over the next decade, driven by investments in overlooked beneficiaries of long-term growth.

CPI Cooldown in November Boosts Stocks as Fed Rate-Cut Bets Rise

December 18, 2025, 1:07 PM EST. November's CPI showed inflation cooling more than expected, with the year-over-year rise at 2.7% and core inflation at 2.6%, both well below forecasts. The data helped lift markets, with the S&P 500 climbing and investors pricing in easier policy from the Federal Reserve. A softer inflation backdrop, alongside weak employment signals, makes further rate cuts more likely, a bullish tilt for equities. Yet a softer consumer, rising unemployment concerns, and a lingering affordability crunch temper enthusiasm: retailers like Target/Walmart report solid demand relief, while PepsiCo trims prices. Traders eye AI names for resilience, but cyclicals such as discretionary, industrials, and financials may remain sensitive to the next data flow. The goal: a Goldilocks path into 2026.

UK FTSE 100 Rises After BoE Rate Cut; Rentokil Leads Gains, BP Falls

December 18, 2025, 1:06 PM EST. The UK's FTSE 100 rose 0.69% as the Bank of England cut the key rate by 25 basis points to 3.75%. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 5-4, with four members opting to hold, signaling further rate cuts depend on the inflation outlook. ING described the decision as hawkish, implying higher market rates and a stronger sterling, with expectations of two cuts in the first half of 2026. In stock gains, Rentokil Initial jumped 3.86% after BofA Global Research upgraded to buy and lifted the price target, citing Terminix visibility. Metlen Energy & Metals added 1.84% on a Leopard 2A8 contract win, while BP slipped 1.36% after naming Meg O'Neill as CEO effective April 1, 2026, succeeding Murray Auchincloss.

November CPI Slows More Than Expected; Stocks Rally on Bets of Fed Rate Cuts

December 18, 2025, 1:05 PM EST. Inflation cooled more than expected: CPI rose 2.7% YoY through November; core inflation 2.6%, both below forecasts of 3.1%. The surprise supported a rally in stocks, with the S&P 500 higher at the open and expectations that the Fed will continue cutting rates. Persistent weakness in the labor market remains a risk-the data hints that slower inflation could reflect softer demand as consumers tighten belts. Retailers report an 'affordability crisis'; Pepsico cutting prices; shoppers trading down; higher-income shoppers at Walmart/Dollar General. Looking to 2026, investors hope for a Goldilocks economy where inflation cools but growth stays afloat; sectors like consumer discretionary, industrials, and financials will be sensitive to the data.

FTSE 100 Gains After BoE Rate Cut; Split MPC Signals Further Moves

December 18, 2025, 1:04 PM EST. The FTSE 100 rose 0.69% as the Bank of England cut the key rate by 25 basis points to 3.75%, in line with expectations. The MPC split 5-4, with some members favoring hold, leaving the policy outlook subject to inflation. Analysts such as ING called the decision hawkish, suggesting the path could include more rate moves and a possible February/March cut. In stock news, Rentokil Initial jumped 3.86% after a BofA upgrade and higher target, with visibility on the Terminix integration. MTLN Energy & Metals rose on a defense-gear contract for Leopard 2A8. BP slid 1.36% after naming Meg O'Neill as CEO from April 2026, with outgoing CEO Murray Auchincloss departing.

Tilray Brands (TLRY) Bear Case: Hype, Regulation, and Valuation Risks

December 18, 2025, 1:03 PM EST. TLRY has collapsed from the cannabis boom into a cautionary tale. As of December 18, the stock trades near $12.88 with a trailing P/E around 57.5, far from its peak near $150. The bear case notes roughly a 99% drop, a market cap near $1.5B, and a business highly exposed to regulation, shifting consumer tastes, and thin competitive moats. In a volatile sector with political risk and price-driven competition, hype-driven growth has proven fragile and hard to sustain. Long-term investors face substantial capital preservation risk and uncertain fundamental value in cannabis names like TLRY. The piece also contrasts this view with prior bullish takes on peers such as Cronos Group.

TLRY Bear Case: Valuation, Regulation, and Sector Headwinds for Tilray Brands

December 18, 2025, 1:02 PM EST. From The Dutch Investors' Substack, the bear case on TLRY cautions that the stock's rally was largely driven by hype rather than durable fundamentals. At roughly $12.88 (as of Dec 18), the stock trades with a lofty trailing P/E multiple (about 57.5) despite a history of volatility and controversial finances. Tilray's business spans cannabis research, cultivation, and medical products across multiple regions, but its performance reflects the broader cannabis sector's fragility: heavy reliance on shifting regulation, thin competitive moats, and a mix of legal/illegal competition. The dramatic peak near $150 gave way to a multiyear drawdown, underscoring the risks of hype-driven growth without structural support. For risk-conscious investors, regulatory risk and valuation weaknesses remain core concerns, limiting the case for compounding returns in TLRY.

Blue Gold Limited (BGL) Analysts Lift Price Target to Up to $22

December 18, 2025, 1:01 PM EST. Blue Gold Limited (Nasdaq: BGL) disclosed that an updated independent analyst report set a price target of up to $22 per share, citing rising institutional interest in gold-backed financial solutions and digital infrastructure. The vertically integrated gold fintech, which procures, refines, certifies and digitally represents physical gold, aims to offer a transparent and modernized platform for movement and verification. Analysts note the hybrid asset model aligns with trends toward digitized commodities and enhanced supply-chain visibility. In 2025, Blue Gold accelerated internal upgrades, metal-verification improvements, and expanded capabilities, supporting the revised valuation. The report underscores steady gold demand and the defensive nature of the asset as drivers of the outlook, with management highlighting ongoing execution of their integrated model.

Blue Gold Limited (BGL) Gets Updated Analyst Target Up To $22 on Gold-Backed Digital Infrastructure Growth

December 18, 2025, 1:00 PM EST. The updated independent analyst report sets a price target of up to $22 for Blue Gold Limited (Nasdaq: BGL), reflecting renewed institutional interest in gold-backed financial solutions and integrated digital infrastructure. Blue Gold operates a model that acquires, refines, certifies, and digitally represents physical gold to create a more transparent and streamlined movement and verification process, while combining technology to modernize access and transactions. Analysts say the company's hybrid asset approach offers a differentiated position as demand for digitized commodities grows. In 2025, Blue Gold has advanced internal systems and metal verification improvements, with ongoing phases contributing to the valuation. The environment for gold as a defensive asset and the push toward digital tools underpin the updated targets, per the CEO.

Coinbase (COIN) Valuation Reassessment After Month-Long Slide

December 18, 2025, 12:57 PM EST. Coinbase Global (COIN) has drifted lower as crypto sentiment wobbles, yet the long-term story remains compelling. A recent analysis flags a higher future fair value anchored in earnings power, with a calculated target near $383.46 versus the current price, implying the stock could be undervalued on a base case. However, the narrative also flags risks: softer spot trading volumes, potential cybersecurity costs, and execution near a pivotal margin path. The report contrasts a lower DCF-derived fair value of about $128.05 with community views, underscoring a debate over whether the market has priced in future growth or is ahead of itself. Institutional onramps and partnerships (BlackRock, JPMorgan, Stripe) support longer-term upside, but near-term profits remain uneven.

BIL ETF Sees Notable $940M Outflow Week Over Week

December 18, 2025, 12:56 PM EST. ETF Channel flags a notable week-over-week outflow in the SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF (BIL): roughly $940 million left the fund, a 1.9% drop in shares outstanding (from 535,844,503 to 525,594,503). The move comes as BIL trades near its 52-week range low of $91.29 and high of $91.83, with a last price around $91.72. This weekly flow data highlights how share creation and destruction can influence an ETF's underlying holdings and liquidity. Investors should watch ongoing outflow trends and how they may affect the ETF's short-duration Treasuries exposure. Readers can click to see the other 9 ETFs with notable outflows for broader context.

BIL ETF Posts ~$940M Outflow; 1.9% WoW Drop

December 18, 2025, 12:55 PM EST. ETF Channel flags a notable week-over-week outflow in the SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF (BIL), with an estimated $940 million outflow, a 1.9% drop in shares outstanding (from 535,844,503 to 525,594,503). The price context shows a 52-week range of $91.29-$91.83 with a last trade near $91.72, and traders watch the 200-day moving average for potential signals. As always, creation/destruction of units can reflect demand and affect the ETF's underlying holdings. ETF Channel monitors weekly flows to flag notable inflows or outflows, and notes related coverage such as other ETFs with outsized moves.

DIA ETF Outflow Alert: $743.7M Week-Over-Week Drop; GS, CAT, HD Stand Out

December 18, 2025, 12:54 PM EST. ETF Channel flags a notable liquidity shift in the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (DIA), recording an estimated $743.7 million outflow and a 1.7% drop in shares week over week (from 89,242,867 to 87,692,867). Among DIA's largest components today, Goldman Sachs Group (GS) is up about 2.1%, Caterpillar (CAT) up about 1.7%, and Home Depot (HD) up around 1.5%. The chart shows a 52-week range of $366.32-$489.66 with the last trade near $483.09, and the path relative to the 200-day moving average is a common technical reference. Weekly flows reflect units created or destroyed to meet demand, which can influence underlying holdings over time. For details, see the DIA holdings page.

DIA ETF Outflow Alert: $743.7M WoW Decline; GS, CAT, HD Among Movers

December 18, 2025, 12:53 PM EST. Week-over-week, the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (DIA) shows a $743.7 million outflow, a 1.7% drop in shares outstanding (from 89,242,867 to 87,692,867). Among DIA's top components, Goldman Sachs (GS) rose about 2.1%, Caterpillar (CAT) +1.7%, and Home Depot (HD) +1.5% on the day. The ETF's last price was $483.09; its 52-week range runs from $366.32 to $489.66. The chart also highlights the 200-day moving average context. Note that shares can be created or destroyed, and large flows can impact holdings. See the full holdings list for details.

JBND: JPMorgan Active Bond ETF Posts $270.5M Inflow, 6.1% WoW

December 18, 2025, 12:52 PM EST. JPMorgan Active Bond ETF JBND drew a notable week-over-week inflow of about $270.5 million, lifting outstanding units 6.1% to roughly 86.35 million from 81.35 million. The move signals rising demand, with the last trade near $54.27 and a 52-week range of $51.645-$54.87. The chart tracks price against the 200-day moving average, a common trend signal. In ETF mechanics, creation of new units requires buying underlying holdings, so sizable inflows can influence the ETF's components over time. Click through to see which nine other ETFs had notable inflows.

JBND Notable ETF Inflow Signals Renewed Demand for JPMorgan Active Bond ETF

December 18, 2025, 12:51 PM EST. The JPMorgan Active Bond ETF (JBND) posted a notable inflow this week, with about $270.5 million added and shares outstanding up roughly 6.1% (from 81.35M to 86.35M). This activity underscores renewed demand for the ETF. On a price basis, JBND trades near its 52-week high of $54.87 and at $54.27 last, within range of its 200-day moving average. The chart comparison shows its one-year performance relative to that moving average, a common tool for gauging momentum. Large weekly inflows can impact the ETF's underlying holdings as new units are created.

Notable ETF Inflow Detected: XLB Leads Week-Over-Week Inflow; SHW, NUE, MLM Movers

December 18, 2025, 12:50 PM EST. Week-over-week, the State Street Materials Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLB) posted an approximate $257.6 million inflow, a 5.0% increase in outstanding units (from 112,947,450 to 118,647,450). Among XLB's top holdings, Sherwin-Williams (SHW) is up about 1.4%, Nucor (NUE) down roughly 0.7%, and Martin Marietta Materials (MLM) higher by 2.1%. A complete holdings list is available on the XLB Holdings page. XLB's 52-week range runs $36.56-$46.43, with a last trade near $45.45. The commentary notes ETF flows reflect unit creation/destruction, which can influence the underlying components. For more inflows, see the other nine ETFs highlighted.

Notable ETF Inflow Detected in XLB; SHW, NUE, MLM Movers

December 18, 2025, 12:49 PM EST. ETF Channel flagged a notable week-over-week inflow in the State Street Materials Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLB): roughly $257.6 million added, a 5.0% increase in outstanding units (from 112,947,450 to 118,647,450). Among XLB's top components, Sherwin-Williams (SHW) rose about 1.4%, Nucor (NUE) slipped about 0.7%, and Martin Marietta Materials (MLM) gained roughly 2.1%. The fund's 52-week range sits at $36.56-$46.43, with the latest trade near $45.45. Traders often compare price to the 200-day moving average as a technical check. The inflow may signal demand for U.S. materials exposure; ongoing monitoring of the holdings remains warranted.

IWX Leads Notable ETF Inflows as JNJ, BAC, WFC Gain

December 18, 2025, 12:48 PM EST. Notable ETF inflows: the iShares Russell Top 200 Value ETF (IWX) shows an approximate $322.4 million inflow, a 10.6% week-over-week rise in outstanding units (from 33,450,000 to 37,000,000). Among IWX's top components, JNJ is up ~0.1%, BAC about 0.5%, and WFC around 0.8%. The chart compares IWX's 1-year price performance vs its 200-day moving average; the 52-week range runs from $71.4829 to $92.58, with the last trade near $91.41. ETF flows can drive unit creation or destruction and affect underlying holdings. For a full holdings list, see the IWX Holdings page.

Noteworthy ETF Inflows: IWX Leads With $322.4M; JNJ, BAC, WFC Contributions

December 18, 2025, 12:47 PM EST. Week-over-week ETF flow shows a standout: IWX, the iShares Russell Top 200 Value ETF, with an estimated $322.4 million inflow, a 10.6% increase in outstanding units (from 33,450,000 to 37,000,000). Among IWX's largest holdings, JNJ is up ~0.1%, BAC about +0.5%, and WFC around +0.8%. The 52-week range runs from $71.4829 to $92.58, with the last trade near $91.41. The chart notes the ETF's price relative to its 200-day moving average, a common technical touchpoint for context. Creation and destruction of ETF units reflect investor demand and can influence underlying holdings over time. For more detail, a full holdings list is available on the IWX page.

TCAF Leads ETF Inflows: ~$499M WoW Rise; BDX Up, NI Higher

December 18, 2025, 12:46 PM EST. An ETF Channel review shows the T. Rowe Price Capital Appreciation Equity ETF (TCAF) attracting a notable inflow of about $499.0 million, marking an 8.2% week-over-week increase in outstanding units (from 162.4M to 175.7M). Among TCAF's largest holdings, Becton, Dickinson & Co (BDX) rose ~0.5%, CenterPoint Energy (CNP) slipped ~0.5%, and NiSource (NI) gained ~0.7% in today's trading. The fund's 52-week range spans $28.28 to $39.34, with a last trade near $37.93, and traders often compare price to the 200-day moving average as a technical gauge. A broader list of holdings and additional inflow disclosures are available via ETF Channel's holdings page and related links.

TCAF Inflows Lead ETF Channel Week; BDX, CNP, NI Movers

December 18, 2025, 12:45 PM EST. The ETF Channel week-over-week screened inflows show TCAF (T. Rowe Price Capital Appreciation Equity ETF) with roughly $499.0 million in net new outstanding units, a 8.2% WoW increase (162.4M to 175.7M). Among its largest holdings, BDX (Becton, Dickinson & Co) trades up ~0.5%, CNP down ~0.5%, and NI up ~0.7%. The chart notes a 52-week range of $28.28 to $39.34, with the latest trade near $37.93, and investors often compare price to the 200-day moving average for context. For a complete holdings list, see the TCAF Holdings page.

QQQM Inflows Top $687M Week Over Week as AMD, AMAT and LIN Rally

December 18, 2025, 12:44 PM EST. QQQM saw a notable inflow this week, with the Invesco NASDAQ 100 ETF adding about $687.2 million and 1.0% more outstanding units (from 277,300,000 to 280,080,000). Among its biggest components, AMD is up about 3.2%, AMAT about 3.6%, and LIN roughly 0.2% on the day. The ETF's price context shows a 52-week range of $165.72 to $262.23, with a last trade near $251.42 and the 200-day moving average as a reference point. The report notes weekly flows reflect creation and destruction of ETF units, which can drive buying or selling of underlying holdings. For more, see the additional inflows list.

QQQM Sees $687M Inflow as AMD, AMAT Lead ETF Gains

December 18, 2025, 12:43 PM EST. ETFs Covered: The Invesco NASDAQ 100 ETF (QQQM) attracted about $687.2 million in inflows, a 1.0% week-over-week rise in outstanding units (277.3M to 280.08M). Among QQQM's largest holdings, AMD is up about 3.2%, AMAT roughly 3.6%, and LIN about 0.2% today. A full holdings list is available on the QQQM Holdings page. The chart compares QQQM's price over the past year with its 200-day moving average; the 52-week range sits at a low of $165.72 and a high of $262.2342, versus a last trade near $251.42. Large weekly flows can influence underlying components as new units are created or destroyed, impacting demand for holdings.

HYD ETF Draws ~$250M Inflow, 6.7% WoW Increase in Units

December 18, 2025, 12:42 PM EST. HYD, the High Yield Muni ETF, saw a notable week-over-week inflow of about $250.0 million, a 6.7% rise in outstanding units (from 72,946,401 to 77,846,401). The accompanying chart contrasts HYD's one-year price performance with its 200-day moving average. The ETF traded near the 52-week range low of $47.78 and high of $52.53, with the latest price around $51.12. This flow reflects the mechanics of ETF creation and destruction-new units require buying underlying holdings, while redemptions involve selling. Investors will want to monitor whether sustained demand continues to influence HYD's composition and near-term trajectory.

HYD ETF: About $250M Inflow Drives 6.7% WoW Increase in Outstanding Units

December 18, 2025, 12:41 PM EST. HYD drew an estimated $250.0 million inflow, a 6.7% week-over-week rise in outstanding units (from 72,946,401 to 77,846,401). The ETF's one-year price trend is shown relative to the 200-day moving average. In the current range, HYD traded near the 52-week high of $52.53 and above the 52-week low of $47.78, with a last price of $51.12. As with all ETFs, units can be created or destroyed to meet demand, meaning inflows can compel purchases of the underlying holdings. Investors watch inflows as a signal of demand shifts that could influence component weights. For related notes, see the linked ETF inflow stories and snapshots of other inflows.

Notable ETF Inflow Detected in XLP; KO, PM, CL in Focus

December 18, 2025, 12:40 PM EST. ETF Channel flags a notable week-over-week inflow in the State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP), with roughly $330.5 million added and outstanding units rising about 2.2% (from 190,021,809 to 194,171,809). Among XLP's top holdings, Coca-Cola (KO) is down ~0.3%, Philip Morris International (PM) about -0.1%, and Colgate-Palmolive (CL) about -1.4%. The latest price sits near the 52-week range low/high of $75.16-$84.35 with a last trade around $79.56. Traders also note the reference to the 200-day moving average as a technical gauge. The piece underscores how new unit creation/destroying flows can affect ETF components.

XLP ETF Draws $330.5M Inflow, KO/PM/CL Decline Among Top Holdings

December 18, 2025, 12:39 PM EST. Week-over-week, the State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP) shows a notable inflow of about $330.5 million, a 2.2% increase in outstanding units (from 190,021,809 to 194,171,809). Among its top holdings, KO is down ~0.3%, PM down ~0.1%, and CL down ~1.4%. The chart notes a 52-week range of $75.16 to $84.35, with a last trade near $79.56, and traders may compare to the 200-day moving average for context. ETF Channel tracks weekly flows, noting that creation or destruction of units can influence holdings when demand shifts. For the full holdings and inflow coverage, see the XLP holdings page.

Sysco Corp (SYY) Dividend Run Preview Ahead of Ex-Dividend Date

December 18, 2025, 12:38 PM EST. DividendChannel's alert raises a potential Dividend Run for Sysco Corp (SYY) as investors position ahead of the upcoming payment. The ex-dividend date marks when new buyers no longer qualify for the payout, typically nudging the stock down by the dividend amount. Yet many traders expect a pre-dividend rally as price pressure builds in anticipation of the cash return. The piece outlines timing tactics-buy before ex-date, hold for the dividend, and sell after-or even shorter windows around the ex-date to maximize capital gains. For example, the reported 0.54 per-share dividend went ex-div on 07/03/25, illustrating how prior trading dynamics feed into the conversation about a potential Dividend Run for SYY.

Upcoming Dividend Run for SYY? Analyzing Sysco's Ex-Dividend Date and Strategy

December 18, 2025, 12:37 PM EST. Sysco Corp (SYY) could be in the spotlight as a potential dividend run around its ex-dividend date. The concept hinges on the price drop that typically accompanies the ex-dividend date (the stock trades without entitlement to the forthcoming dividend). In Sysco's case, the recent $0.54 per-share dividend went ex on 07/03/25, triggering the classic dynamic: buyers before ex-date may bid up the stock in anticipation, while the price gaps lower by roughly the dividend on ex-date. Traders debate timing: buy several trading days before ex-div, hold to capture the dividend, and sell afterward; or buy right before ex-date and sell the day before. Understanding these dynamics helps explain why a Dividend Run can appear around SYY and similar names.

Cisco CSCO Dividend Run: Understanding Ex-Dividend Dynamics

December 18, 2025, 12:36 PM EST. Today's note from DividendChannel highlights a potential Dividend Run around Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO). The concept hinges on the ex-dividend date: buyers after this date won't receive the upcoming dividend, typically causing the stock to drop by the dividend amount. Yet many traders anticipate a pre-dividend rally as positions build for cash flow, creating built-in pressure for the price to rise before payout. The piece outlines various timing strategies-buy before ex-div, hold to capture the dividend, then sell, or time a sale to maximize capital gains around the ex-date. As example, the 0.40 per share dividend for CSCO went ex-dividend on 10/02/24. The alert discusses a window roughly two weeks prior to the targeted sale date.

Cisco CSCO Dividend Run: Understanding Ex-Dividend Dynamics and Trading Windows

December 18, 2025, 12:35 PM EST. Today's piece explores the concept of a Dividend Run, the expected price move on the ex-dividend date, and how traders try to exploit the window before or after the payout. It explains that the stock typically falls by the dividend amount on the ex-div date, but traders look for an advance rally in the weeks leading up to the payout. The article outlines common strategies: buy before ex-dividend, hold through the ex-date to collect the dividend, then sell; or buy roughly two weeks prior to a targeted exit. It cites Cisco Systems (CSCO) and a $0.40 per share dividend that went ex-div on 10/02/24 as an illustrative example, noting that timing and market factors influence the outcome.

Insiders Bullish on BRBR Within FTXG; 11% of Holdings See Insider Buying

December 18, 2025, 12:34 PM EST. Insiders are signaling optimism within the First Trust Nasdaq Food & Beverage ETF (FTXG). About 11.0% of FTXG's weighted holdings have seen insider buys in the past six months. Among them, BellRing Brands Inc (BRBR) accounts for 0.39% of FTXG and is valued around $71,263, ranking as the ETF's #29 largest holding. Recent BRBR insider activity includes three purchases: Elliot Stein Jr., Director, acquired 2,663 shares at $37.49 (~$99,836); Craig L. Rosenthal, CLO & SECRETARY, 2,600 shares at $37.29 (~$96,958); and Shawn Conway, Director, 1,316 shares at $37.98 (~$50,000). The pattern suggests a measured bullish stance among insiders even as BRBR remains a modest weight within FTXG.

Insiders Stay Bullish on BRBR in FTXG: 11% of Holdings Show Insider Buying

December 18, 2025, 12:33 PM EST. An analysis of the First Trust Nasdaq Food & Beverage ETF (FTXG) shows 11.0% of holdings by weight have experienced insider buying in the past six months. Within FTXG, BellRing Brands Inc (BRBR) accounts for about 0.39% of the portfolio and has seen three insider purchases. Form 4 activity includes Elliot Stein Jr. buying 2,663 shares at $37.49 on 08/06/2025 for $99,836, Craig L. Rosenthal purchasing 2,600 shares at $37.29 on 08/06/2025 for $96,958, and Shawn Conway acquiring 1,316 shares at $37.98 on 08/14/2025 for $50,000. BRBR's stake totals $71,263 and ranks as the #29 largest holding in FTXG. The data come from Form 4 filings; conclusions are those of the author.

Stocks Rebound on Chip Rally and Benign US CPI; Micron Leads Gains

December 18, 2025, 12:31 PM EST. Stocks moved higher as a dip in volatility supported a chip-stock rebound and a cooler inflation backdrop. The S&P 500 rose about 0.8%, the Dow up ~0.6%, and the Nasdaq 100 up ~1.4% as December futures followed the action. Micron Technology jumped more than 14% after guiding for stronger demand and tighter supply, helping the semis lead gains. US data showed weekly jobless claims near expectations at 224,000 and CPI running cooler: November CPI +2.7% y/y, core CPI +2.6% y/y-the slowest pace in 4.5 years. The Philadelphia Fed index weakened to -10.2. Treasuries traded lower as market pricing kept a slim chance of a January rate cut, and the yield curve steepened, pressuring T-note prices.

Stocks Rebound on Chip Strength and Soft CPI

December 18, 2025, 12:30 PM EST. Stocks climbed as investors bought the dip in semis after Micron jumped on optimistic guidance, propelling gains in chip stocks. The S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq 100 all traded solidly higher, while December futures extended the move. A softer-than-expected US CPI and a drop in weekly unemployment claims underpinned risk appetite, with November CPI ex-food and energy rising at the slowest pace in 4.5 years and core CPI weakening versus expectations. The mood shifted as rate expectations cooled and the yield curve steepened, sparking mixed dynamics for bonds. Traders are watching upcoming data on existing home sales and consumer sentiment, along with the potential for a near-term policy tweak by the Fed. Overseas markets were mixed as investors digest the inflation backdrop.

MXG:CA Stock Market Analysis: AI-Generated Signals and Trading Plans for Maxim Power Corp

December 18, 2025, 12:29 PM EST. Stock Traders Daily presents updated AI-generated signals for Maxim Power Corp (MXG:CA) dated December 18, 2025. The report outlines long-term trading plans: buy near 4.38 with a target 5.14 and a stop at 4.36; and a short near 5.14 with a target 4.38 and a stop at 5.17. The MXG:CA ratings for this period are Near Neutral for Near, Mid Neutral for Mid, and Long Weak for Long. The data note directs readers to check the timestamp and notes that AI-generated signals for MXG:CA are available, with a referenced chart for Maxim Power Corp. This snapshot highlights current positioning and potential price ranges.

MXG:CA Stock Analysis: AI-Generated Signals and Trading Plans for Maxim Power Corp.

December 18, 2025, 12:28 PM EST. Stock Traders Daily presents AI-generated signals for Maxim Power Corp. (MXG:CA) as of December 18, 2025. The update outlines trading plans: a Buy near 4.38 with a target of 5.14 and a stop at 4.36; and a Short near 5.14 with a target of 4.38 and a stop at 5.17. The MXG:CA ratings show Near: Neutral, Mid: Neutral, and Long: Weak. Updated insights support potential entry/exit levels. Readers should verify the timestamp and caveats before acting on any recommendation.

Micron stock jumps after earnings beat on unprecedented AI-driven demand for memory

December 18, 2025, 12:27 PM EST. Micron jumped more than 10% after beating expectations as AI demand fuels memory-chip sales. Q1 DRAM revenue rose 69% to $10.8B, led by HBM used in AI servers; NAND revenue topped $1B. The company guided Q2 revenue of $18.3B-$19.1B and a mid-point EPS of $8.42, with gross margin seen at a fresh high of 68%. CEO Sanjay Mehrotra said AI data-center buildouts have boosted memory demand while industry supply remains tight. Analysts lifted targets on MU, with some projections near $300-$500 as the HBM market could reach $100B by 2028 from $35B in 2025. MU trades around $251, up ~210% YTD.

Micron stock jumps after earnings beat as AI-driven memory demand accelerates

December 18, 2025, 12:26 PM EST. Micron Technology shares jumped more than 10% after reporting a beat on quarterly results as AI-driven demand for memory chips surged. The company's DRAM revenue rose 69% to $10.8 billion, aided by high-bandwidth memory (HBM) used in AI servers to feed GPUs. First-quarter earnings per share came in at $4.78 on $13.6 billion in revenue, topping expectations. NAND revenue surpassed $1 billion for the first time. Micron guided for Q2 revenue of $18.3-$19.1 billion and sees mid-point EPS around $8.42, with a gross margin near 68%. Analysts raised targets, noting unprecedented AI demand and tight supply dynamics supporting the stock.

Microsoft Stock Price Today: AI Spending, Copilot Monetization, and Outlook

December 18, 2025, 12:25 PM EST. Microsoft trades near the mid-$470s with a rough $3.85 trillion market cap and about 36.7x earnings as investors reassess AI economics. The core debate: can heavy AI infrastructure spend translate into durable, high-margin growth for Azure, Microsoft 365, and Copilot? Market mood is tempered by rising capex costs and competitive pressure, notably from Google's Gemini 3 Flash rollout. CEO Mustafa Suleyman warns frontier AI could require hundreds of billions in funding over the next 5-10 years, underscoring a race that few firms can sustain. If AI demand and pricing power hold, capex may build a moat around key platforms; if adoption stalls or pricing softens, margins could tighten. Traders also await central-bank signals that could sway risk appetite.

Tesla Stock News Today: California Autopilot Ruling, Robotaxi Momentum and Divergent Forecasts (Dec 18, 2025)

December 18, 2025, 12:24 PM EST. Tesla shares surged to a fresh high near $495 before trimming gains into the session, trading in the mid-$460s to high-$470s as the regulatory headline reframed the bull case. The spotlight remains on the Autopilot branding and California's DMV ruling, which paused a 30-day license suspension and offered a procedural path to remedy rather than a business shutdown. The stay, plus a possible appeal, keeps the timeline uncertain but reduces immediate risk to vehicle sales in Tesla's biggest US market. Investors are weighing a complex mix: robotaxi momentum, a broader AI-meets-autonomy narrative, and a spectrum of analyst forecasts from cautious fair value to trillion-dollar upside scenarios. In short, sentiment swings loom large as regulators test branding and supply longer-term trust in Tesla's platform.

February 2026 Options Now Trading for Cinemark Holdings (CNK)

December 18, 2025, 12:23 PM EST. Investors in Cinemark Holdings Inc (CNK) gained two new February 2026 options. The put at the $23.00 strike shows a bid near $0.05; selling to open would lock in a cost basis of $22.95 per share (before commissions). With the strike about 2% below the current $23.38 price, the odds of the put expiring worthless are around 54% (YieldBoost), implying a potential 0.22% cash return or about 1.24% annualized if it expires worthless. On the call side, the $24.00 strike bid is about $0.10; a covered call on CNK bought at $23.38 could yield roughly 3.08% if shares are called away at expiration. As always, greeks and risk factors accompany the data.

NSE Expands F&O roster with Swiggy, Bajaj Holdings, Waaree Energies & Premier Energies from Dec 31, 2025

December 18, 2025, 12:22 PM EST. NSE announced four securities added to the futures & options segment, effective Dec 31, 2025: Bajaj Holdings & Investment Ltd, Waaree Energies Ltd, Premier Energies Ltd, and Swiggy Ltd. The market lot and strike schemes will be notified on Dec 30; contract files will specify quantity freeze. In derivatives, Waaree Energies, Premier Energies, and Swiggy join the Nifty MidCap 150; Bajaj Holdings qualifies for the Nifty 100. The rollout follows SEBI's Aug reforms, raising the MQSOS threshold from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 75 lakh, lifting the minimum market-wide position limit to Rs 1,500 crore, and boosting the minimum ADD to Rs 35 crore. Eligibility hinges on six-month cash performance; failure for three consecutive months can lead to removal, with existing contracts valid until expiry and a one-year cooling-off before reentry.

Genpact G February 2026 Options Begin Trading; 5.12% Covered-Call Yield at $50 Strike

December 18, 2025, 12:21 PM EST. Genpact Ltd (G) kicked off February 2026 options, highlighting a $50 strike call. The bid on that contract is around 0.10; selling to open a covered call using stock at $47.66 could generate a 5.12% total return if the stock is called away at expiration, excluding commissions. If G shares stay below the strike, the premium cushions returns – a YieldBoost of about 1.20% annualized (0.21% lift) is possible. Current odds of the contract expiring worthless sit around 60%, with the implied volatility at about 34% and trailing twelve month volatility at about 33%. StockOptionsChannel.com will track these odds and the option's trading history on the contract detail page. For more ideas, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.

BAH February 2026 Options Begin Trading: Puts at $80, Calls at $90

December 18, 2025, 12:20 PM EST. Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp. (BAH) kicked off February 2026 options trading. A put at the $80 strike bids around $2.20, implying a cost basis of roughly $77.80 if sold to open and representing an 8% discount to the current share price. The odds of the put expiring worthless sit near 72%, yielding about 2.75% on cash and roughly 15.68% annualized via YieldBoost. On the call side, the $90 strike bids about $3.20. In a covered call setup, buying at about $87.28 and selling the call could deliver ~6.78% total return if stock is called away. The piece also highlights historical charts and fundamentals.

EC August 2026 Put at $8 Strike Draws Attention – YieldBoost Opportunity

December 18, 2025, 12:19 PM EST. Ecopetrol SA (EC) options for the August 2026 expiration introduce a notable put at the $8.00 strike with a current bid of 30 cents. Selling to open this put commits to buying EC at $8.00, but collects the premium, yielding a cost basis of $7.70 before commissions. With the strike about 14% below the current price (out-of-the-money), the odds of expiration worthless are estimated around 68%. The implied volatility on this contract is 79%, vs. a trailing 12-month volatility of 38%. If it expires worthless, the return on cash is about 3.75% (or 5.56% annualized). The stock trades near $9.29. Stock Options Channel labels this as a potential YieldBoost opportunity and will track changing odds over time.

BORR August 2026 Options Open: Put at $3 and Covered-Call at $5

December 18, 2025, 12:18 PM EST. BORR August 2026 options have begun trading, creating long-dated premium opportunities. The put at the $3.00 strike shows a current bid of $0.05; selling to open could establish a cost basis around $2.95 after premium. That strike is about a 22% discount to the current price, with 76% odds of expiring worthless, per YieldBoost. If so, the return on cash would be 1.67% (or 2.47% annualized). On the call side, the $5.00 strike has a bid of $0.10; a covered-call on stock bought near $3.85 could yield about 32.47% total return if called away. Traders should review the trailing 12-month chart and fundamentals.

First Majestic Silver AG: February 2026 Puts at $13 and Covered Calls at $20 Spark New Options Interest

December 18, 2025, 12:17 PM EST. Investors in First Majestic Silver (AG) saw new February 2026 options begin trading. A put at $13.00 bids around $0.50. Selling to open would lock in a cost basis of $12.50 if assigned, about 21% below the current price of $16.55. The odds of the put expiring worthless are about 75%, per YieldBoost, with potential for a 3.85% return on cash and 21.94% annualized. On the call side, a $20.00 strike has a bid near $1.01. A covered call using current stock and the call could yield about 26.95% if called away. Both contracts highlight the stock's 12-month history and fundamentals.

KAR February 2026 Covered Call at $30 Strike: 1.35% Return If Called, 1.92% YieldBoost

December 18, 2025, 12:16 PM EST. Investors in OPENLANE Inc. (_symbol KAR) have a new February 2026 call at the $30 strike. The current bid on this contract is $0.10, while KAR trades around $29.70. A covered call-buy KAR stock and sell this call-would lock in a maximum sale price of $30.00 and an estimated total return of 1.35% if the stock is called away at expiration, excluding commissions. If the option expires worthless, the premium boosts total return by 0.34% (about 1.92% annualized YieldBoost). Implied volatility for the contract is 37%, vs. trailing 12-month volatility of ~34%. The odds of the option expiring worthless are about 47% and are tracked on Stock Options Channel's contract detail pages.

February 2026 Options Now Available for JinkoSolar (JKS)

December 18, 2025, 12:15 PM EST. New February 2026 options for JinkoSolar Holding (JKS) introduce a $25 put and a $30 call. A selling-to-open put at $25 implies a cost basis near $24.95 if assigned, roughly a 10% discount to the current price and a ~70% chance the put expires worthless, per YieldBoost analysis. The $30 call offers a potential 9.71% total return on a covered call if stock is called away at expiration, though upside is capped. The article notes the tradeoffs between premium income versus potential capital appreciation and highlights the importance of chart context and fundamentals when evaluating these contracts.

Aris Mining ARMN February 2026 Options Spotlight: Covered Call at $25 Strike Could Deliver ~58% Return

December 18, 2025, 12:14 PM EST. Aris Mining Corp (ARMN) has new February 2026 options, highlighting a covered call at the $25 strike. With the stock trading around $15.82, selling the call could deliver a quoted 58.34% total return if the shares are called away at expiration, plus the premium. If the stock stalls, the trade also offers the possibility of keeping the premium for a smaller gain, per a 72% odds of expiring worthless. The platform's YieldBoost estimate anchors a 0.32% premium boost (about 1.80% annualized). The implied volatility of the contract sits around 130%, versus a 52% trailing twelve-month volatility. Investors may explore more ideas on StockOptionsChannel.com.

LYB February 2026 Options Begin Trading: Key Puts and Covered Calls

December 18, 2025, 12:13 PM EST. LYB options for February 2026 have begun trading. A PUT at the $40 strike bids around $1.35, implying a cost basis of about $38.65 if sold to open, roughly an 8% discount to the current $43.25 stock price. The odds of the put expiring worthless are about 67%, yielding about 3.38% on the cash put in, or roughly 19.25% annualized per YieldBoost. On the call side, a $55 strike call bids around $0.15. A covered call at $55 on shares bought at $43.25 could deliver about 27.51% total return if called away, with upside capped. Stock history and fundamentals remain relevant for context.

Pembina Pipeline's PBA August 2026 options begin trading with YieldBoost insights

December 18, 2025, 12:12 PM EST. In this note on Pembina Pipeline Corp (PBA), traders saw new August 2026 options debut. With about 246 days to expiration, the contracts offer potential premium advantages for option sellers. YieldBoost highlights the $35 put as particularly interesting: a current bid of $0.05 implies a cost basis of $34.95 if sold to open, versus stock at $37.11 today. The strike is roughly 6% out-of-the-money, implying a 64% chance the put expires worthless, a scenario yielding a 0.14% return on cash (0.21% annualized) if it expires worthless. Implied volatility on the example is 23%, with trailing volatility around 22%. StockOptionsChannel promises ongoing odds tracking and more contract ideas.

Two Harbors (TWO) February 2026 Options: $11 Put Shows ~2% Discount, 56% Chance to Expire Worthless

December 18, 2025, 12:09 PM EST. Investors in Two Harbors Investment Corp (TWO) have a new February 2026 option chain, led by a $11.00 strike put. The current bid is about $0.05, implying a cost basis near $10.95 if you sell-to-open and keep the premium. With TWO trading around $11.17, the strike is roughly a 2% discount versus the stock. The model assigns about a 56% odds the put expires worthless, delivering a potential 0.45% return on cash (about 2.59% annualized) via the YieldBoost. Implied volatility on the contract is around 78%, vs. trailing volatility near 31%. StockOptionsChannel will track the odds over time and publish charts on the contract detail page.

Is Universal Health Services Still Valued After Its Strong 2025 Rally?

December 18, 2025, 12:06 PM EST. Universal Health Services (UHS) has surged 25.2% YTD and ~28.5% over the past year, even as certain segments soften. The article frames UHS as well-capitalized, with sentiment supported by hospital utilization trends and reimbursement debates. Using a two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity model, trailing FCF ~ $1.0B and projected ~ $1.77B in ten years, the intrinsic value comes out around $569.48 per share, implying a roughly 60% discount versus the current price (DCF-based). The piece also notes a 5/6 undervaluation score in its framework, and emphasizes balance sheet strength and operational resilience as a driver of multiple expansion in a policy and rate backdrop. Overall: undervalued relative to cash-flow potential, with a pathway to fair value via cash flow growth.

Volkswagen Closes Dresden Plant as EV Demand Slows; What It Means for VWAGY

December 18, 2025, 12:05 PM EST. Volkswagen AG (VWAGY) has halted production at the Dresden 'Transparent Factory' due to tariff pressure, softer EV demand and high operating costs, marking the first German-made vehicle plant shutdown in its 88-year history. About 230 staff will lose their jobs as production shifts away from the ID.3, with EV manufacturing to continue at Zwickau and Dresden repurposed as a joint innovation center focusing on AI, robotics, chip design and technological development in collaboration with the Technical University of Dresden. VW aims to leverage the site for research rather than mass output, while facing competitive pressure in China and Europe and the drag from tariffs on margins. Still, overall group sales rose to €239B year-to-date; Q3 deliveries reached 2.2M, underscoring a mixed trajectory for the automaker's EV transition.

Market Mavericks: 3 Financial Stocks Up 50% in 2025-and Still Gaining

December 18, 2025, 12:04 PM EST. Within the Finance sector, insurers are benefiting from strong customer retention, portfolio diversification and renewed premium growth despite softer global rates. Falling interest rates are lifting real estate, fueling M&A activity and consumer spending, while ongoing technology investments lift efficiency and margins. However, investment yields for rate-sensitive finance firms may compress as yields fall. The Global Insurance Market Index shows a fifth straight quarterly rate decline, with casualty lines under pressure. With Fed cuts totaling 75 basis points in 2025 and hints of more in 2026, borrowers gain cheaper credit, supporting banks and housing markets. Solid consumer spending – aided by wage gains – also underpins finance stocks, echoed by Mastercard's spending data. In this environment, finance players may pursue more M&A to diversify and expand reach.

C3.ai's IPD-Led Sales Reset Targets More Durable Growth Amid Margin Trade-Offs

December 18, 2025, 12:03 PM EST. C3.ai is pivoting to an IPD-led sales model, positioning Initial Production Deployments as the entry point for customers and a proving ground for measurable economic value before enterprise-wide expansion. In Q2 FY2026, the company signed 20 new IPDs (including six generative AI IPDs), lifting total IPDs to 394 with 269 active across pilots or conversions. Management tightened upfront qualification, milestone-based delivery, and executive oversight to improve conversion and alignment with economics. Near-term margins have moderated as IPDs demand more services, but the strategy aims for longer-term customer value and broader production adoption, evidenced by large accounts like GSK, Dow, and Holcim following the IPD-to-production path. Competitors like Palantir pursue faster large-scale deployments; C3.ai's approach emphasizes disciplined execution and measured growth recovery.

Invest $20,000 in 2 TSX Stocks for About $880 in Passive Income

December 18, 2025, 12:02 PM EST. Dividend investing is a proven way to build a passive-income stream that can keep pace with inflation. The article highlights two reliable TSX dividend stocks: Fortis (FTS) and Canadian Natural Resources (CNQ). Fortis operates regulated utilities with a long track record and a current yield around 3.65%, offering predictable cash flows and a 50+-year dividend-growth history. CNQ, a Calgary-based energy producer, has raised its dividend for 25 years and yields about 5.17%. A hypothetical $20,000 split evenly would target roughly $880 in annual passive income, illustrating how diversified, high-quality dividend payers can deliver durable payouts. The key takeaway is to avoid putting all funds into a single name and to favor companies with resilient models, strong balance sheets, and a history of increasing dividends.

Broadcom Stock (AVGO) Today: AI Financing Fears, Post-Earnings Margin Pressure, and Fresh Wall Street Targets

December 18, 2025, 12:00 PM EST. Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) is in focus as AI-related variability hits chip shares. On Dec 18, 2025, AVGO trades near $326, down about 4.5% after a post-earnings margin squeeze and renewed concerns over AI infrastructure financing. The stock has acted as an AI infrastructure proxy, pressured by funding doubts for large data-center projects tied to Oracle and lender Blue Owl. While a premarket Micron bounce offered cautious optimism, the broader risk-off mood persists as investors question who bears capex for AI compute. Headlines around Oracle/Blue Owl, OpenAI's compute stack, and Wall Street targets shape sentiment, with analysts weighing near-term margins against longer-term AI-driven demand.

5 Construction Stocks Wall Street Analysts Think Will Rally in 2026

December 18, 2025, 11:57 AM EST. As 2025 closes, the construction sector benefits from easing inflation, a likely Fed rate path into 2026, and longer-duration, non-discretionary spend in digital infrastructure, grid modernization and public works. With the Fed guiding one more cut in 2026, inflation near 2.5% and GDP around 2.3%, forward visibility has improved. Mortgage rates around 6.2% support project economics even before further cuts. Wall Street's preferred names – DY (Dycom Industries), STRL (Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.), FIX (Comfort Systems USA, Inc.), TPC (Tutor Perini Corporation), and WMS (Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.) – boast multi-year backlog visibility, exposure to funded spend, and operating discipline that can widen margins. Zacks ranks them #1 or #2 with strong/moderate buy ratings, hinting at potential rally into 2026.

Can Cortex XSIAM Drive Palo Alto Networks' Next Growth Wave

December 18, 2025, 11:56 AM EST. Cortex XSIAM has scaled to about 470 customers with average ARR above $1 million. The latest quarter featured its biggest deal yet: an $85 million contract with a large U.S. telecom. Management notes customers are consolidating tools and improving response times, with more than 60% cutting median response from days to minutes. XSIAM also reinforces PANW's platform strategy, as platform deals linked to XSIAM more than double year over year and customers expand into other PANW products. Looking ahead, PANW plans AI and automation upgrades via AgentiX. Zacks pegs fiscal 2026/2027 revenue growth around 14.1% and 13.3%. Competitors such as CrowdStrike and SentinelOne push SIEM/AI innovation. PANW trades at a forward P/S of about 11.8x.

CAT vs. KMTUY: Which Heavy Equipment Stock Is the Better Buy?

December 18, 2025, 11:54 AM EST. CAT leads as the global heavyweight with a far larger market cap and revenue footprint, while KMTUY relies more on international demand (about 80% outside Japan). In Q3 2025, Caterpillar posted record revenue of $17.6 billion, up 9.5% year over year, but EPS declined about 4% to $4.95 due to tariffs. Caterpillar kept its 2025 revenue guidance in a wide band around $42-$72 billion and aims for margins of 10%-22% as it combats tariff headwinds with pricing and cost controls. The company is well positioned to benefit from U.S. infrastructure spending and the shift to clean energy, plus growth in data-center related engine demand and autonomous fleets. Komatsu remains a close rival with broad international exposure and a diversified product mix. The decision may hinge on tariff sensitivity, regional exposure, and capital allocation priorities.

Home Depot vs. Lowe's: Which Stock Stands Out in 2026?

December 18, 2025, 11:53 AM EST. Home Depot (HD) and Lowe's (LOW) remain the dominant names in home-improvement retail, balancing stability with growth potential. Home Depot benefits from greater scale, deeper Pro penetration, and supply-chain leverage, while Lowe's pursues agility, store productivity, and a "total home" strategy to deepen DIY and pro engagement. The case for HD hinges on expanded Pro reach through SRS and GMS, plus an AI-powered blueprint takeoffs tool that speeds material estimates for contractors. Both firms face cautious consumer spending and slower housing turnover, but moves toward digital infrastructure, loyalty programs, and AI-enabled services could unlock market-share gains and drive longer-term value for investors in 2026.

EC Approves Minjuvi (tafasitamab) Label Expansion for Follicular Lymphoma

December 18, 2025, 11:52 AM EST. Incyte's Minjuvi (tafasitamab) has won European Commission approval to expand its label for adult patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma (FL) after at least one prior systemic therapy, when used with Revlimid (lenalidomide) and rituximab. This marks the drug's second EU indication, following prior approval for relapsed/refractory DLBCL in combination with lenalidomide and rituximab, then monotherapy. The decision was supported by late-stage inMIND study data showing significantly improved progression-free survival with the triplet regimen; safety was generally manageable. The CHMP issued a positive opinion in November 2025. FL is an indolent B-cell NHL with unmet needs, and this expansion highlights a milestone for Minjuvi in Europe.

Sensex, Nifty End Flat as IT Gains Offset Broader Market Weakness

December 18, 2025, 11:51 AM EST. Indian benchmarks closed modestly lower on Thursday as gains in IT stocks failed to offset weakness across autos, metals, power and pharma. The Sensex swung about 542 points intraday, trading from a low of 84,238 to a high of 84,780, before finishing at 84,482, down 78 points. The Nifty settled at 24,815.55, down 3 points, after retreating from an intraday high near 25,902. Analysts warned the chart pattern remains weak, with a break below 25,700 potentially triggering a sharper correction and 25,900 acting as near-term resistance. The session saw TCS lead gains among the IT names, while Sun Pharmaceutical was the laggard after a regulatory update. Breadth stayed negative; mid caps flat, small caps down slightly. Look ahead to U.S. core inflation data and central bank decisions for direction.

Sun Life Financial (TSX: SLF): A Solid Dividend Stock for December

December 18, 2025, 11:50 AM EST. With markets trading at higher valuations, the article argues for higher-quality dividend names over growth. Sun Life Financial (TSX: SLF) fits the bill: a dividend-payer with a 4.4% yield and a growing payout. Trading at about 10.5x forward P/E, SLF looks like a value play even as its U.S. operations face headwinds. The author notes that despite a tepid YTD and a softer 2025, the long-term fundamentals remain solid and could power a solid 2026. Investors are rewarded for stability and potential dividend growth, with Sun Life offering a relatively attractive entry point in the Canadian financials space on the TSX.

US stocks rally as inflation cools and Micron boosts AI shares

December 18, 2025, 11:48 AM EST. U.S. stocks rallied after a cooler-than-expected inflation update, fueling bets that the Fed could pursue more rate cuts next year. The S&P 500 rose about 1.2%, the Dow gained roughly 330 points (0.7%), and the Nasdaq Composite climbed about 1.7%. Inflation cooled to around 2.7% last month, still above the 2% target but closer to it, easing nerves about the Fed's policy path. Micron Technology surged 12.9 on stronger profit and revenue and brighter forecasts, underscoring a rebound in AI names. Nvidia also rose, highlighting the AI rally, while Oracle and Broadcom trended higher after their results. Trump Media & Technology Group jumped 35.6% to trim recent losses amid a volatile market backdrop.

Tesla TSLA: CICC Raises 12-Month Target to $500 on Robotaxi Progress; Strong Buy Signal Amid Mixed Analyst Views

December 18, 2025, 11:47 AM EST. Tesla shares received a fresh price target from CICC, raising the 12-month target to $500 from $450 and reiterating an Outperform rating as Robotaxi testing advances. The upgrade rests on expectations that Tesla will improve operational efficiency, cost discipline, and margin stabilization as production scales and pricing normalizes. CICC remains constructive on the company's ability to defend market share while preserving profitability amid intense EV competition. In contrast, near-term sentiment among broader analysts is Neutral, with an average 12-month target of $396, underscoring skepticism about valuation, demand elasticity, and the timing of autonomous driving and software revenue. The disparity highlights Tesla as a selective outperformer within the EV and AI-adjacent universe, appealing to investors tolerant of volatility seeking long-term upside from autonomy, energy storage, and platform monetization.

Perimeter Solutions Prices $550 Million Senior Secured Notes to Fund MMT Acquisition

December 18, 2025, 11:46 AM EST. Perimeter Solutions, Inc. (PRM) said its indirect subsidiary Perimeter Holdings priced $550 million of 6.250% senior secured notes due 2034. The notes mature Jan. 15, 2034, bear interest at 6.25% per year (paid semi-annually), and are guaranteed on a senior secured basis by Perimeter Intermediate, LLC and other restricted subsidiaries guaranteeing the revolving credit facility. They will be secured by a first-priority lien on substantially all present and future acquired assets of Perimeter Holdings and the guarantors. Proceeds, along with cash on hand, will fund the acquisition of Medical Manufacturing Technologies LLC (MMT) and related fees. If the deal isn't completed by Sept. 9, 2026, or is terminated, Perimeter Holdings will redeem the notes. Post-close, expected net leverage is about 2.7x net debt to Adjusted EBITDA (TTM as of Sept. 30, 2025).

DaVita (DVA) Stock: Why It's Worth Holding in Your Portfolio Now

December 18, 2025, 11:45 AM EST. DaVita Inc. (DVA) is trading on momentum from a robust overseas expansion and a value-based kidney care model. Its Integrated Kidney Care approach links nephrologists, providers, and transplant programs to slow CKD progression and boost home dialysis adoption, while international growth unlocks new addressable markets. With a 12.6% five-year growth target and a market cap around $8.33B, DaVita projects steady long-run expansion despite a near-term dependence on commercial payers. The company posted a mixed Q3 2025 performance, but has a history of beating the Zacks Consensus on earnings in most quarters. As the company opens new centers and expands overseas (Brazil, China, Europe), it could deliver upside if payer mix stabilizes and care coordination improves.

Patience Is the Market's Hidden Edge: Lessons from Munger on Waiting Over Predictions

December 18, 2025, 11:44 AM EST. In a market obsessed with hot picks and rapid trades, Charlie Munger's wisdom shines: wealth compounds in silence, while the market rewards patience over urgency. The biggest winners – Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, Costco – didn't become legends by perfect timing, but by sitting through volatility, headlines, and corrections. Waiting isn't passivity; it's a disciplined skill that requires conviction, research, and emotional control. Time in the market isn't a cliché – it's a strategy, with each day of staying invested quietly compounding. Jumping in and out resets the clock and invites drama. The edge comes from doing homework, sticking to a long-term thesis, and having the patience to endure until the payoff arrives. The market pays for endurance, not fireworks.

Three Skyrocketing MedTech Stocks Might Lose Steam in 2026

December 18, 2025, 11:43 AM EST. From 2024-25, the MedTech sector faced slowing growth, inflation easing, and supply-chain frictions. Demand for essential medical technologies remains solid, but higher costs and selective hospital capital spending pressured near-term results. As 2026 approaches, a more stable macro backdrop with easing inflation and supportive financing could help, yet hospital budgets may stay tight and competition could rise. Investors may reconsider high fliers like GMED, TMDX, and HIMS, which have priced in strong near-term growth. The outlook favors efficiency gains, outpatient care, and automation, suggesting some premium stocks could lose steam if adoption and pricing power cool. A balanced stance toward valuation and durable growth will be key.

ASML's EUV push could lift margins as logic and DRAM adoption grows

December 18, 2025, 11:41 AM EST. ASML's margin trajectory is increasingly tied to the pace of EUV adoption across logic and DRAM. Q3 2025 gross margins rose 80 bps to 51.6%, helped by stable EUV demand and a growing installed base. In logic, multiple EUV layers boost tool utilization and recurring software/services revenue, typically higher-margin. In DRAM, AI-related memory and denser architectures push EUV adoption and higher-value system demand, balancing exposure to legacy tools. Management guides Q4 revenue of €9.2-9.8B with gross margins of 51-53%, and full-year 2025 sales up about 15% with margins near 52%. ASML remains the EUV leader among peers such as Applied Materials and KLA, with a margin-acceleration path tied to EUV volume growth and service revenues.

Stock Market Live December 18: Inflation Cooldown Lifts S&P 500 ETF VOO

December 18, 2025, 11:40 AM EST. Live inflation data edges markets higher as the CPI shows slower-than-expected gains, boosting the S&P 500 ETF VOO and easing fears of aggressive policy tightening. November CPI rose 2.7% year-over-year, vs 3.1% forecasts, while core CPI rose 2.6% (vs 3%). Traders bet the cooling inflation keeps the Federal Reserve on a slower rate path. In early trading, the VOO trades higher as investors digest the data and a surge in risk appetite follows. Separately, CarMax jumped after quarterly results beat on earnings and revenue, signaling marketing-cost management may bolster margins; meanwhile Darden Restaurants posted mixed results and guided higher full-year sales with solid same-store growth. The day's updates are ongoing as markets reassess rate expectations.

Top Nasdaq-100 Performers of 2025: Are Micron, Palantir, and Warner Bros. Discovery Still Buys for 2026?

December 18, 2025, 11:37 AM EST. In 2025, the Nasdaq-100's standout names were Micron Technology, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Palantir Technologies. The piece highlights Micron's staggering roughly 177% total return as demand for memory and data-center products climbs with AI infrastructure, prompting a shift away from its consumer Crucial brand. Warner Bros. Discovery has delivered about a 173% total return amid a bid landscape from Netflix and Paramount, even as profitability remains uneven. Palantir also posted meaningful gains, though less dramatic than the other two. Looking to 2026, the article weighs whether these names still deserve bets given AI optimism and macro questions, noting valuations such as Micron trading around ~14x forward earnings and the lingering earnings risks at WBD.

Currys plc (LSE: CURY) Surges 10% on Turnaround Momentum in 2025 Analyst Feature

December 18, 2025, 11:36 AM EST. On December 18, 2025, Currys plc (LSE: CURY) jumped 10.33% to 139.68 GBX, marking a bright spot for UK tech retail as markets digest a multi-year turnaround. The stock rally follows a standout H1 2025 with a 32% rise in adjusted EBIT and an expanding high-margin services business, underscoring Currys' shift from a hardware box-shifter to an omnichannel, services-led model. With segments in UK & Ireland and Nordics, the company benefits from growing Care & Repair, installation services, and iD Mobile (MVNO), which drive recurring revenue. The strategy, including divestments and a focus on SME B2B solutions, aims to capitalize on a more circular, AI-aware retail landscape while navigating post-Brexit headwinds and e-commerce competition.

US Stock Market Today Dec. 18, 2025: Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq Rise on Softer CPI as Micron Sparks Tech Bounce

December 18, 2025, 11:35 AM EST. U.S. stocks were higher at 9:49 a.m. ET as a softer CPI revived rate-cut hopes and a Micron surge lifted chips and AI names. The S&P 500 rose about 0.8%, the Nasdaq 100 ~1.2%, and the Dow ~0.6% (the Russell 2000 up ~1.2%). The 10-year yield slipped to ~4.13% and the dollar weakened, signaling a risk-on bid on a potentially friendlier Fed path. The CPI printed cooler: CPI +2.7% YoY, Core CPI +2.6%, though data may be distorted by the government shutdown and late-year measurement, creating a data fog. Traders price more easing, with December's cut priced in and debate over how much to trust the signal from this noisy read.

Corn Bulls Extend Higher as Demand and Ethanol Strength Support Prices

December 18, 2025, 11:33 AM EST. Corn prices are steadier to modestly higher, up about 1¾ cents, with futures gains of 2-4½ cents on the session. Demand remains solid, underpinned by record ethanol production and strong exports, while open interest climbed. The CmdtyView national cash price sits near $3.96¾. Traders await the latest Export Sales data for the week of 11/27, eyeing about 1-2 MMT. The EIA weekly report shows a record ethanol grind at 1.131 million bpd and a draw in stocks to 22.353 million barrels, despite higher ethanol exports. The Commitment of Traders data show funds turning net long in corn futures and options. International buyers, like Brazil's ANEC estimate of 6.35 MMT in December exports, help support the backdrop.

Cotton Dips Early Thursday as Futures Rally Fades; Specs Trim Net Short

December 18, 2025, 11:32 AM EST. Cotton is down 10-15 points early Thursday after Wednesday's session closed with futures up 20-33 points. Crude oil futures rose about $1.63 to $56.90 per barrel, while the U.S. dollar index firmed to around 97.995. Speculators trimmed their net short in cotton futures and options by 2,212 contracts for the week ended December 2, reducing the net short to 59,787 contracts. In separate notes, The Seam's online auction sold 5,155 bales at an average 61.24 cents/lb; the Cotlook A Index gained 5 points to 73.90 cents. ICE certified cotton stocks declined by 78 bales to 12,396, and the Adjusted World Price stood at 50.39 cents/lb.

Wheat Starts Thursday with Strength as OI Rises; Export Sales Due

December 18, 2025, 11:31 AM EST. Wheat began Thursday stronger after a mixed session, with HRW firmer and SRW giving back some ground. CBOT SRW futures were down about 2 to 3¼ cents, while KC HRW added 2-3 cents. Open interest rose sharply, up 6,457 contracts, signaling fresh selling interest alongside new long positions; KC HRW OI up 4,203. MPLS spring wheat was down 3 cents. Export sales for the week ending Nov 27 are due, with a forecast of 250,000-600,000 MT. In COT data, managed money cut its net short by 9,905 contracts to 43,841 CBT wheat and 17,911 KC. The EU soft wheat crop for 2026/27 is seen at 128.3 MMT, down 8.5 MMT. Prices nearby hovered near $5.06.

Soybeans Slip to Start Thursday Trade Ahead of Export Sales Data

December 18, 2025, 11:30 AM EST. Soybeans are trading with slight Thursday morning weakness, down 2 cents, after a Wednesday session where most contracts fell 2¾-4 cents, while nearby November futures rose ¾ cent. There were 61 deliveries issued against November overnight as futures roll off the board. Preliminary open interest rose by 14,195 contracts. The front-month cash price was down 2½ cents at $9.54 1/2. Soymeal fell 50 cents to $1.30/ton and soy oil slid 85-105 points. Export Sales data are due Friday morning, delayed by the holiday. CONAB lifted Brazil's 2024/25 soybean production to 166.14 MMT (+0.09). COFCO sees Chinese imports down 9.5% to 98.8 MMT; Argentina's crop pegged at 53-53.5 MMT per Rosario. Prices: Nov 24 $10.04 1/4, Jan 25 $10.07 3/4, May 25 $10.31 1/2.

Cattle Markets Eye Thursday After Wednesday Pullback

December 18, 2025, 11:29 AM EST. Live cattle futures slipped 85 cents to $1.15 on Wednesday, while open interest rose and another 20 deliveries were tendered. Cash trade has been slow, with early sales around $229. The Wednesday Fed Cattle Exchange showed no sales on 1,708 head, with bids of $227 live and $347.50-$354 dressed. Feeder cattle futures fell about $1.25-$1.80 across front months. The CME feeder cattle index rose 94 cents to $349.79. In the Commitment of Traders, spec funds cut net long by 10,703 contracts to 82,208, and managed money trimmed another 2,630 to 13,418 contracts, the smallest since November 2024. The December Cattle on Feed report due Friday could show placements down about 8% and marketings down about 11.3% versus last year. Slower slaughter and boxed beef prices provided context.

Lean Hog Futures Slip as OI Falls; USDA Prices and CFTC Spec Positions

December 18, 2025, 11:28 AM EST. Lean hog futures posted losses of $1.45 to $1.80 on Wednesday, with open interest down 10,642 contracts. The USDA national base hog price rose 15 cents to $69.71, while the CME Lean Hog Index increased 31 cents to $83.30. CFTC data for the week ending Dec 2 show spec funds still net long 46,650 contracts in lean hog futures and options, down 3,543 from the prior week. Pork carcass cutout value edged 2 cents lower to $98.54 per cwt, with the butt and picnic primals the only gainers. Federally inspected hog slaughter for Tuesday was 494,000 head, bringing the week's total to 1.462 million-9,000 below last week and up 927 from a year earlier. Look for further USDA and CFTC data for direction.

Are Allegro MicroSystems Options Hinting at a Big Move for ALGM?

December 18, 2025, 11:24 AM EST. Investors in Allegro MicroSystems (ALGM) should watch the options market, where the Jan 16, 2026 $17.50 call is showing among the highest implied volatility. Implied volatility signals how much movement the market expects ahead of earnings or events; elevated IV suggests a potential rally or sell-off. Fundamental view remains mixed: Zacks ranks Allegro as a Hold (Rank #3) in Electronics – Semiconductors, with earnings expectations trimmed from 17 cents to 14 cents this quarter. The juxtaposition of rich IV and modest fundamentals can attract traders who sell premium to profit from decay, rather than betting on a large directional move. As always, IV is only one piece; investors should weigh earnings risk, catalysts, and position sizing before trading.

Allegro MicroSystems: High Implied Volatility Signals a Potential Big Move in ALGM Options

December 18, 2025, 11:23 AM EST. Investors in Allegro MicroSystems (ALGM) are watching the options market, where the Jan 16, 2026 $17.50 call shows one of the highest implied volatility readings among equity options. IV gauges the market's expected move; elevated IV often signals a looming rally or sell-off, or upcoming events. Despite the high IV, fundamentals appear mixed: Zacks ranks ALGM as a #3 (Hold) in Electronics – Semiconductors, with analysts trimming quarterly earnings estimates from 0.17 to 0.14 per share. The combination suggests some traders may be selling premium on high IV, betting that the stock will not move much by expiration. As always, options pricing reflects expectations, not guarantees.

Barrick Mining vs. Agnico Eagle: Which Gold Miner Shines Brighter in the Rally

December 18, 2025, 11:22 AM EST. With gold prices atop a multi-year rally, investors are weighing Barrick (ABX) vs. Agnico Eagle (AEM) for exposure to global gold miners. Barrick benefits from a robust growth slate, including the Goldrush ramp, the nearby Fourmile project with higher grades, and the Reko Diq copper-gold complex, plus the Lumwana expansion moving toward Tier One status. The balance sheet and cash flow should support a strong production uplift as these projects come online through 2028. By contrast, Agnico Eagle's portfolio emphasizes high-quality, long-life mines with visible cash margins and a lower political risk profile. Investors should assess leverage to a continuing gold price rally, project execution risk, and country risk to decide which name offers better upside in 2025-26.

Progressive (PGR) in Focus as Earnings-Revision Trends Drive Near-Term Outlook

December 18, 2025, 11:21 AM EST. Progressive (PGR) has drawn heavy traffic from Zacks.com, with shares up 3.8% over the last month versus the S&P 500's 3.2%. The Insurance – Property and Casualty group has lagged, down 0.8%. Central to near-term moves are earnings-estimate revisions: Progressive is expected to report $2.11 per share this quarter, a marked +322% year over year, while the Zacks Consensus calls for $11.33 for the current fiscal year, up about 85.4% from last year. For next year, the consensus rises to $12.21, up ~7.8%. The stock carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), reflecting the balance of strong earnings momentum against other factors. As always, revenue growth remains a key driver of long-run earnings expansion, influencing fair value and price trajectory.

Barrick vs. Agnico Eagle: Which Gold Miner Has the Stronger Growth Path?

December 18, 2025, 11:20 AM EST. Two Canada-based gold miners, Barrick and Agnico Eagle, face a backdrop of stronger bullion prices and macro uncertainty. The piece weighs which company offers the brighter growth trajectory: Barrick's pipeline of major projects – including Goldrush, the Fourmile expansion, the Reko Diq copper-gold project, and the Lumwana Super Pit expansion – is advancing on schedule and could lift medium-term production. Goldrush aims for about 400,000 ounces per year by 2028; Fourmile shows higher grades and drilling upside. The article contrasts these prospects with broader market tailwinds for gold as central banks accumulate reserves and rate-cut expectations persist. For investors, the question is which name translates project progress into sustainable cash flow and margin resilience in a volatile bullion environment.

Jim Cramer's Top 10 Things to Watch in the Stock Market – Thursday, Dec. 18

December 18, 2025, 11:19 AM EST. From a cooler CPI to a volatile AI trade, Thursday's preview highlights a bounce in stocks as yields slide. Nike is in focus for tonight's earnings. Micron's beat and higher guidance tee up the AI/macroeconomy backdrop, with the chip ecosystem under scrutiny. OpenAI valuation chatter and potential funding moves keep data-center demand in play, while Tesla's tilt toward robotics stirs the crowd and Alphabet's Gemini saga adds to the AI fever. ServiceNow's post-split rebound is eyed alongside SaaS risk after KeyBanc's downgrade. Lennar's downgrade to sell and GE Vernova's upgrade frame a mixed backdrop on housing and energy-transition stocks. Key themes: inflation, AI demand/supply dynamics, and earnings trajectories across semis, software, and industrials.

Is WesBanco's Options Market Predicting a Move? High Implied Volatility on WSBC Puts

December 18, 2025, 11:18 AM EST. Investors in WesBanco (WSBC) should note the options market has priced in a potential swing. The Feb 20, 2026 $30.00 Put has among the highest implied volatility readings today, signaling traders expect a bigger move ahead. Implied volatility reflects anticipated price activity, and elevated IV can foreshadow rallies or selloffs tied to upcoming events. Fundamentally, WesBanco is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) in Banks – Southeast, with analysts trimming its near-term earnings view from 93c to 84c per share over the last 60 days. Some options traders may sell premium to capitalize on decay if the stock stays relatively rangebound. Digested: a high IV setup, but the fundamental outlook remains cautious.

Is WesBanco's Options Market Hinting at a Spike in WSBC?

December 18, 2025, 11:17 AM EST. Recent activity in the WesBanco (WSBC) options market shows the Feb 20, 2026 $30 Put trading with some of the highest implied volatility among equity options, signaling the market expects a sizable move. Higher IV can reflect anticipated rallies or sell-offs, or upcoming events. Despite the option signal, WesBanco carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) in Banks – Southeast, with analysts trimming quarterly earnings from 93 cents to 84 cents. The mix suggests a potential trade setup where traders sell premium on high-IV names, banking on limited stock movement through expiration. Investors should weigh fundamentals against option signals and remember IV is just one piece of the puzzle.

Kohl's (KSS) Momentum Accelerates, Yet Valuation Remains Bargain-Level

December 18, 2025, 11:16 AM EST. Kohl's (KSS) stands out on the Fast-Paced Momentum screen after a four-week gain of 45.6% and a 12-week advance of 31.1%, with a beta of 1.45. The stock earns a Momentum Score A and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) as earnings estimates trend higher. Importantly, valuation remains appealing: a Price-to-Sales ratio of roughly 0.16x suggests a bargain. The piece notes momentum investing can be risky if a stock hits a valuation ceiling, but KSS appears to combine rapid upside with reasonable pricing. If earnings revisions persist, the rally could continue; investors should still time entries carefully and monitor the pace of momentum amid broader market moves.

FG: Fast-Paced Momentum at Bargain Valuation With Zacks Rank #1

December 18, 2025, 11:15 AM EST. FG is presenting fast-paced momentum while trading at a bargain valuation. The stock has posted a four-week price change of 8.5% and a 12-week gain of 1.6%, with a beta of 1.45 signaling higher sensitivity to market moves. Its Momentum Score: B and a rising earnings-trend have helped it earn a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). On the valuation side, FG trades at a Price-to-Sales ratio of 0.80, meaning you pay 80 cents per dollar of sales. While momentum can lift shares, investors should watch for volatility and ensure the upside justifies the pace of moves.

Kohl's (KSS) Shows Fast Momentum While Valuation Stays Bargain-Priced

December 18, 2025, 11:14 AM EST. Kohl's (KSS) is highlighted as a fast-moving, bargain stock candidate after clearing a momentum screen. A dash of recent price momentum reflects growing investor interest, with a four-week price change of 45.6% and a 12-week gain of 31.1%, signaling sustained upside. The stock's beta of 1.45 indicates above-market moves in either direction, underscoring its beta-driven volatility. With a Momentum Score of A and a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy), KSS benefits from earnings-estimate revisions that tend to lift price as analysts raise outlooks. Valuation also looks reasonable-the stock trades at about 0.16x Price-to-Sales. In short, KSS appears to have room to run due to momentum and a bargain valuation, though investors should beware momentum-driven risks.

Progressive (PGR) Draws Attention as Earnings Revisions Shape Near-Term Outlook

December 18, 2025, 11:13 AM EST. Progressive (PGR) has drawn notable attention from Zacks visitors as investors weigh earnings estimates revisions and the stock's near-term trajectory. Over the past month, PGR outperformed the market while its Insurance – Property and Casualty peers lagged. The key driver is the linkage between earnings estimates revisions and fair value. For the current quarter, Progressive is expected to report EPS of $2.11, a 322% year-over-year surge (with the Zacks Consensus down 16% over 30 days). For the full year, the consensus calls for $11.33 in earnings (up 85.4% YoY), and next year's estimate sits at $12.21 (up 7.8%). The stock carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), signaling modest near-term upside as revisions settle. Revenue growth remains a key consideration.

FG Shows Fast-Paced Momentum at a Bargain Valuation, with Strong Buy Zacks Rank

December 18, 2025, 11:12 AM EST. FG Annuities & Life, Inc. is highlighted as a stock with fast-paced momentum and a bargain valuation. A four-week price change of 8.5% and a 12-week gain of 1.6% point to growing investor interest, while a beta of 1.45 signals above-market moves. The stock earns a Momentum Score B and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) as upward earnings estimate revisions attract buyers. With a Price-to-Sales ratio around 0.80, FG trades at a notably cheap multiple relative to sales, suggesting upside potential may come with continued momentum. However, investors should monitor whether the stock's price can sustain momentum without outpacing future growth. Overall, FG combines momentum exposure with attractive valuation, offering a potential entry point for traders seeking a balance of speed and value.

Microsoft Stock Price Prediction for 2025: Outlook Fueled by AI and Cloud Momentum

December 18, 2025, 11:11 AM EST. Microsoft (MSFT) remains a top AI and cloud player, with a ~13.8% YTD gain after a minor pullback. In Q1 FY2026, EPS beat at $3.72 and revenue at $77.67B. On Oct. 1, Xbox Game Pass pricing rose 50%, with gaming contributing ~8% of revenue and 50M MAUs. A May headcount reduction of ~6,000 aims to squeeze costs amid macro uncertainty. Analysts expect sustained cloud demand, backed by an $80B cash reserve fueling AI infra investments. Copilot adoption tops 70% of the Fortune 500, underpinning productivity revenue and a 37% CAGR for the AI market through 2030. Oracle partnerships bolster multi-cloud competitiveness; a $400M Swiss data-center expansion expands Azure capacity. Last earnings showed EPS and revenue beats; gross profit was $49.8B with ~68% margins.

Micron Technology Surges After Q1 Earnings Beat and Strong Guidance

December 18, 2025, 11:06 AM EST. Micron Technology (MU) climbed about 9% in extended trading after reporting fiscal Q1 2026 results that beat estimates. The memory-chip maker posted EPS of $4.78 and revenue of $13.64B, up 167% and 56.7% year over year respectively, driven by robust HBM demand and data-center DRAM strength. The company issued strong Q2 guidance above consensus, with DRAM and NAND segments delivering solid growth; DRAM rose on high-capacity server demand, while Cloud Memory and Mobile/Client units led the gains. Non-GAAP gross profit reached $7.75B, up 125% YoY, with an improving gross margin profile. The upbeat print underscores Micron's exposure to the data-center cycle and favorable pricing dynamics.

REG – Euronext Dublin Notices of Partial Repurchase and Cancellation for AB Financial Products, Series 411 & 628 (Effective 30.12.2025)

December 18, 2025, 11:05 AM EST. REG – Euronext Dublin has issued notices of partial repurchase and cancellation for AB Financial Products Designated Activity Company. The actions cover Series 411 and Series 628, with an effective date 30.12.2025. Investors should review the official notices for precise terms, pricing, and timing, and assess the impact on outstanding notes and redemption schedules. Market data is provided by ICE Data Services and FactSet, with regulatory filings via Quartr and charting from TradingView. This report summarizes the regulatory action; it does not constitute investment advice.

Micron Technology Stock Surges After Q1 Beat and Strong Q2 Guidance

December 18, 2025, 11:04 AM EST. Micron Technology, MU, jumped about 9% in extended trading after beating Q1 fiscal 2026 earnings estimates and signaling stronger Q2 guidance. The company posted Q1 earnings of $4.78 per share, up 167% year over year and ahead of estimates by roughly 22%. Revenue rose 56.7% to $13.64 billion, topping consensus by about 7%. Demand was strongest in HBM and other high-bandwidth memory products, with DRAM revenue of $10.8 billion (+69% YoY) and NAND at $2.7 billion (+22%). A reorganized segment structure highlighted strength across Cloud Memory, Core Data, Mobile & Client, and Auto & Embedded units. Management forecast better top- and bottom-line results for Q2, with guidance above consensus amid ongoing data center demand and pricing tailwinds.

Roblox (RBLX) Gains Market Share as Brown Advisory Highlights Growth in Q3 2025

December 18, 2025, 11:03 AM EST. Brown Advisory's Q3 2025 Mid-Cap Growth Strategy highlights Roblox (RBLX) as a stock gaining market share in a two-sided gaming platform. Roblox's one-month return was -7.04% but 52-week gains reach 44.7%; as of Dec 17, 2025, RBLX traded near $85.91 with a $59.81B market cap. The letter notes stronger engagement and operating leverage driven by improved search algorithms and hit titles, with bookings accelerating despite tougher comparisons. Q3 2025 revenue rose 48% YoY to $1.36B. Hedge funds show 90 portfolios hold RBLX at end-Q3, up from 75, though the stock is not on Brown Advisory's list of the 30 most popular stocks. The piece also references AI stocks as potentially having greater upside with lower downside risk.