Wall Street Feels the Heat (and Thrill): Fed Cuts, Tariffs & Mega-Mergers Set NYSE Buzz
5 February 2026
155 mins read

Stock Market Today 05.02.2026


LIVEMarkets rolling coverageStarted: Updated:

Central Bancompany Shares Show Strong Gains but Valuation Model Signals Undervaluation

February 5, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Central Bancompany (CBC) stock has surged 142% over five years, reflecting robust multi-year share price performance. Despite recent gains-1.9% over the past week and 2.8% year-to-date-valuation models present a nuanced picture. Our Excess Returns approach, which estimates profits above shareholder required returns, values CBC at US$39.71 versus the current US$24.52 share price, suggesting a 38.2% undervaluation. Meanwhile, CBC's price-to-earnings ratio stands at 15.0x, higher than industry averages, hinting at optimism on growth but also risk perception. The firm's 11.48% Return on Equity exceeds its shareholder cost of equity, supporting intrinsic value estimates. Investors are weighing strong historical gains against fundamental valuation models and evolving market expectations for regional banks.

First Trust US Equity Opportunities ETF Hits Oversold Territory Amid Market Dips

February 5, 2026, 12:38 PM EST. First Trust US Equity Opportunities ETF (FPX) entered oversold territory Thursday, trading as low as $155.45 per share. The Relative Strength Index (RSI), a momentum indicator ranging from zero to 100, dropped to 29.8-below the 30 threshold signaling a potential oversold condition. For comparison, the S&P 500's RSI stands at 40.4. FPX's 52-week trading range spans from $94.13 to $174.68, with its current price down 2.2% on the day. Some investors view FPX's dip and low RSI as a possible entry point, anticipating a reversal as selling pressure eases. Oversold indicators like RSI suggest stocks may be undervalued in the short term, prompting bullish interest.

Amplify Transformational Data Sharing ETF (BLOK) Hits Oversold Territory

February 5, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. Amplify Transformational Data Sharing ETF (BLOK) dropped to $51.48 on Thursday, entering oversold territory according to the Relative Strength Index (RSI), which measures momentum on a scale of 0-100. BLOK's RSI fell to 26.7, below the oversold threshold of 30, while the S&P 500's RSI stood at 40.4. BLOK's one-year trading range is between $31.32 and $75.89, with the ETF currently trading down 4.9% on the day at $51.96. Investors may interpret the low RSI as a potential buying opportunity amid heavy recent selling pressure.

Stellantis Shares Fall Below 200-Day Moving Average, Dipping 10%

February 5, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. Shares of Stellantis NV (STLA) dropped below their 200-day moving average of $10.64 on Thursday, hitting a low of $9.97. The stock declined roughly 10.1% during the trading session. The 52-week trading range for STLA spans from a low of $8.393 to a high of $14.28, with the latest trade at $10.08. The 200-day moving average is a common technical indicator tracking the average closing price over the past 200 days, used by traders to assess long-term trends. Stellantis shares crossing this threshold could signal a bearish market sentiment for the company.

Grifols SA Shares Drop Below Key 200-Day Moving Average

February 5, 2026, 12:32 PM EST. Grifols SA (GRFS) shares dipped below their critical 200-day moving average of $9.14 on Thursday, trading as low as $9.10, marking a 4.3% decline for the day. The stock's recent move is notable given its 52-week range between $6.19 and $11.14. The 200-day moving average is a technical indicator used by investors to assess a stock's overall trend. This break below could signal weaker momentum for Grifols shares in the near term.

Intellia Therapeutics Shares Cross Below 200-Day Moving Average

February 5, 2026, 12:30 PM EST. Shares of Intellia Therapeutics Inc (NTLA) fell below their 200-day moving average of $11.86 on Thursday, reaching a low of $11.42, down about 6% during the session. The 200-day moving average is a key technical indicator used by traders to assess long-term trends. NTLA's stock has traded between $5.90 and $28.25 over the past 52 weeks, with the latest trade at $11.73. This breach suggests potential bearish momentum for the biotech firm. Investors may watch closely for further developments as crossing below this average often signals increased selling pressure.

iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF (IWP) Enters Oversold Territory at 28.1 RSI

February 5, 2026, 12:28 PM EST. Shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF (IWP) fell to $120.26, entering oversold territory with a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 28.1, below the 30 threshold indicating potential momentum exhaustion. This compares with the S&P 500's RSI of 32.9. IWP traded down about 2.9% on Tuesday, with a one-year range between $101.12 and $139.68, last trading at $121.16. Investors may see this as a buying opportunity, anticipating a reversal from heavy recent selling. The RSI is a technical indicator measuring strength or weakness on a 0-100 scale, with readings under 30 suggesting overselling.

Stock market falls as Treasury yields, Bitcoin drop amid AI and economic concerns

February 5, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. On Feb. 5, U.S. stock markets declined as investors grappled with worries about economic slowdown and AI-driven asset valuations. The S&P 500 fell over 1% to around 6,810, Dow Jones dropped 1%, and Nasdaq was down 1.2%. Alphabet shares lost more than 3% following its $185 billion investment announcement in new technology. Economic data showed a sharper labor market decline, with job cuts reaching their highest since 2009. Bitcoin tumbled 8.5% to about $67,389, hitting its lowest level this year after investor Michael Burry warned of a potential 'death spiral'. Ethereum also dropped over 7%. U.S. Treasury 10-year yields slid nearly 7 basis points to 4.206%, reflecting bond sell-off amid market jitters over growth and inflation.

Stocks Extend Slump as Tech Selloff Deepens, S&P 500 Hits Two-Week Low

February 5, 2026, 12:24 PM EST. Stocks dropped further as the S&P 500 hit a two-week low and the Nasdaq 100 fell to a 2.5-month low amid a tech selloff. Qualcomm shares plunged over 9% after a weak revenue forecast for Q2, while Alphabet fell more than 3%, forecasting capital spending far above expectations, raising concerns over free cash flow. Labor market weakness weighed on sentiment; January job cuts surged 117.8% year-on-year, and weekly initial unemployment claims rose to an 8-week high. Fed Governor Lisa Cook backed the pause on interest rates, citing inflation risks. Bitcoin plunged more than 3% to a 1.25-year low, down 45% from its October peak. Focus shifts to December JOLTS data and corporate earnings as 150 S&P 500 firms report this week, with earnings growth expected at 8.4% for Q4.

Sable Offshore Shares Show Volatility Amid Valuation Concerns

February 5, 2026, 12:15 PM EST. Sable Offshore (SOC) shares rose 2.2% to $8.27 after falling 18% over the past week, despite a strong 70.87% gain in the last 90 days. The stock trades at a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 3.4x, well above its energy peers' average of 0.9x and the US oil and gas sector average of 1.5x, signaling potential overvaluation. The company remains unprofitable with a negative return on equity of 104.62% and reported losses of $364 million. While the consensus price target of $24.40 suggests upside, the 64.06% decline in 1-year shareholder returns points to investor caution. Investors should weigh these risks alongside the volatile share price before considering Sable Offshore as an investment opportunity.

Vanguard Growth ETF (VUG) Falls Below Key 200-Day Moving Average

February 5, 2026, 12:13 PM EST. Shares of the Vanguard Growth ETF (VUG) dipped below their 200-day moving average on Thursday, closing near $260.65 against the 200 DMA at $261.75. This technical move signals potential short-term weakness, with shares falling about 1.4% on the day. Over the past year, VUG has fluctuated between a low of $206.72 and a high of $295.07, currently trading around $261.47. Crossing below the 200-day moving average-a common benchmark representing average closing prices over 200 days-often indicates a shift in market sentiment. Investors may watch this trend carefully as it can suggest increased volatility or a downturn in growth-oriented stocks.

JPMorgan Active Growth ETF (JGRO) Hits Oversold Territory Amid Heavy Selling

February 5, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. Shares of the JPMorgan Active Growth ETF (JGRO) dropped to $87.24 on Thursday, entering oversold territory with a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 29.0, below the 30 threshold indicating potential buyer exhaustion. The S&P 500 RSI stands at 40.4 for comparison. JGRO traded about 1.5% lower on the day, with its 52-week range spanning $63.33 to $97.91 and a last trade near $87.42. Some investors may view the RSI reading as a sign the selling pressure is easing, potentially creating buying opportunities amid volatility.

IQVIA Holdings Shares Drop Below 200-Day Moving Average Amid 8.8% Slide

February 5, 2026, 12:11 PM EST. Shares of IQVIA Holdings Inc (IQV) fell below their 200-day moving average of $191.49 for the first time recently, hitting a low of $182.41. The stock is down roughly 8.8% on the day. IQVIA's last trade price stood at $185.35, within a 52-week range of $134.65 to $247.05. The 200-day moving average (DMA), a key technical indicator used to identify trend direction, was breached, signaling potential increased volatility. This movement may attract attention from traders following technical signals. IQVIA's share performance reflects broader market dynamics and company-specific factors.

iShares Paris-Aligned Climate Optimized MSCI USA ETF (PABU) Falls Below 200-Day Moving Average

February 5, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. Shares of the iShares Paris-Aligned Climate Optimized MSCI USA ETF (PABU) dipped below their 200-day moving average of $69.12 on Thursday, touching as low as $68.69. This technical indicator, often used to assess long-term trends, signals potential bearish sentiment. PABU is trading about 1.5% lower on the day. The ETF's 52-week price range spans from $52.49 to $74.72, with the current price at $68.79, indicating the recent dip is notable but not near annual lows. Investors watch these levels closely as crossing below the 200-day moving average can imply increased volatility or trend shifts in the fund's performance.

Fox Corp (FOXA) Hits Oversold Territory with Strong Dividend Appeal

February 5, 2026, 12:09 PM EST. Fox Corp (symbol: FOXA) has entered oversold territory, trading as low as $64.92 per share with a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 27.4, below the 30 threshold that signals oversold status. This compares to the average dividend stock RSI of 56.2. The stock ranks in the top 50% of dividend stocks per Dividend Channel's DividendRank formula, highlighting its blend of strong fundamentals and attractive valuation. FOXA's recent dividend yield stands at 0.83% annually based on its current price, potentially offering an opportunity for dividend investors as recent selling pressure may be waning. Investors should consider FOXA's dividend history and fundamentals before making buy decisions amid this technical signal.

Celldex Therapeutics Shares Dip Below 200-Day Moving Average

February 5, 2026, 12:08 PM EST. Shares of Celldex Therapeutics, Inc. (CLDX) fell below their 200-day moving average of $23.76 on Thursday, touching a low of $23.61. The stock is down 1.7% for the day. This moving average is a common technical indicator used to assess long-term trends. CLDX shares have traded within a 52-week range of $14.40 to $30.50, with the last trade at $23.64, signaling a near midpoint valuation. Investors often watch for breaks below this average as potential signals of weakening momentum or trend shifts.

Wheat Prices Decline Amid Ample Global Supplies on Wednesday

February 5, 2026, 12:01 PM EST.Wheat futures declined across major U.S. markets on Wednesday, pressured by large global supplies. Chicago SRW (Soft Red Winter) wheat futures fell 1 to 2 cents, Kansas City HRW (Hard Red Winter) wheat contracts dropped 4 to 5 cents, while Minneapolis spring wheat dipped 2 to 3 cents by close. Anticipation builds ahead of Thursday's export sales report, where analysts expect wheat sales between 300,000 to 600,000 metric tons in the week ending January 29. Market watchers remain cautious as supply fundamentals continue to weigh on prices amid a sluggish demand outlook.

Live Cattle Futures Edge Higher Amid Mixed Market Signals

February 5, 2026, 12:00 PM EST.Live cattle futures gained modestly Wednesday, rising 17 to 60 cents in front months despite no sales at the Fed Cattle Exchange online auction where 1,602 head were offered with bids at $237. Cash trade remains slow, with last week's range between $238-240. Feeder cattle futures advanced $1.35 to $2.15, yet the CME Feeder Cattle Index slipped 44 cents to $374.57 as of Feb. 3. Wholesale boxed beef prices declined, with Choice boxes down $2.69 to $368.02 and Select off $5.14 to $362.09. USDA reported Wednesday slaughter at 113,000 head, 12,000 more than last week but 20,175 fewer than the same week last year. Futures closing prices reflected these mixed dynamics.

Key Insights for Investors on the 2026 ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF

February 5, 2026, 11:59 AM EST. The ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB) marks two years since the debut of U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, managing $3.3 billion in assets, ranking among the largest crypto ETFs. It operates as an index fund tracking the CME CF Bitcoin Reference Rate, meaning investors don't own Bitcoin directly. The ETF trades only during regular market hours, unlike Bitcoin's 24/7 market, which affects liquidity. The fund charges a 0.21% annual expense ratio, roughly $21 on a $10,000 investment, potentially deterring cost-conscious crypto holders. Cathie Wood, ARK Invest's CEO, remains bullish on Bitcoin, projecting a $28 trillion crypto market by 2030 with Bitcoin holding 70%. Investors should weigh these factors carefully before investing in the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF.

Cotton Futures Drop Amid Rising Crude Oil and US Dollar

February 5, 2026, 11:58 AM EST. Cotton futures fell into Wednesday's close, with front-month contracts down 7 to 12 points. March cotton closed at 62.24 cents per pound, unable to hold gains. Crude oil futures rose $1.26 to $64.47 per barrel, reflecting energy market strength. The US dollar index climbed 0.214 points to 97.515, boosting currency valuation. Tuesday's online auction via The Seam recorded cotton sales at 55.62 cents/lb on 8,680 bales. The Cotlook A Index, a global cotton price benchmark, dropped 45 points on February 3 to 73.35 cents. ICE certified cotton stocks increased by 2,247 bales to 36,515. The USDA's Adjusted World Price was updated to 50.23 cents/lb last week. Market volatility continues amid these mixed signals in commodities and currency markets.

TCHP ETF Dips Into Oversold Territory Amid Market Dip

February 5, 2026, 11:57 AM EST. The T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF (TCHP) fell into oversold territory on Thursday, hitting a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 27.7, below the 30 threshold signaling potential buying opportunities. The RSI measures momentum on a 0-100 scale. In comparison, the S&P 500's RSI stands at 40.4. TCHP shares traded as low as $46.495 amid a 2.1% daily decline, still above its 52-week low of $32.665 but below the 52-week high of $51.7686. The dip suggests recent selling pressure may be easing, attracting investors seeking entry points amid the ETF's volatility.

FTSL ETF Hits Oversold Territory, Signals Possible Buying Opportunity

February 5, 2026, 11:56 AM EST. Shares of the First Trust Senior Loan Fund ETF (FTSL) fell into oversold territory on Thursday, dropping to $45.26 with a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 29.4. An RSI below 30 indicates heavy selling momentum and potential exhaustion of downside pressure. In contrast, the S&P 500's RSI stood at 40.4. FTSL's 52-week range sits between $44.30 and $46.30, with the current price near the lower end at $45.25, down 0.2% on the day. Analysts suggest this technical signal could attract bullish investors seeking entry points amid oversold conditions.

Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF (VOT) Enters Oversold Territory, Hits RSI 29.7

February 5, 2026, 11:55 AM EST. Shares of Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF (VOT) dropped to $183.46 on Monday, entering oversold territory with an RSI of 29.7, below the typical 30 threshold signaling potential undervaluation due to heavy selling pressure. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) gauges momentum on a scale of 0 to 100. VOT's 52-week range spans $183.39 to $265.87, with the current price near the low end. The S&P 500's RSI stands at 35.5, indicating less selling pressure. Investors might view the low RSI as a buy signal, anticipating a rebound as selling abates. VOT's shares fell about 3.8% during Monday's session, aligning with technical signs of potential price recovery.

SIRI Shares Surge Past 200-Day Moving Average Signaling Bullish Momentum

February 5, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. Shares of Sirius XM Holdings Inc (SIRI) climbed above their 200-day moving average of $6.25 on Monday, reaching $6.26 at peak trading and marking a roughly 1.5% increase for the day. The 200-day moving average, a widely followed metric representing the stock's average price over the past 200 trading days, often signals longer-term trend shifts. SIRI's current price sits closer to its 52-week low of $5.89 than its high of $7.29, suggesting room for potential upside. This technical breakout may attract attention from traders seeking momentum plays as the stock moves ahead of this critical resistance level.

SEG.AX shares jump 5.45% pre-market on ASX amid volume surge

February 5, 2026, 11:52 AM EST. SEG.AX stock climbed 5.45% pre-market to A$0.29 on Feb 6, 2026, with volume spiking to 100,000 shares, over 10 times average levels. The surge follows momentum after a year high of A$0.36. Sports Entertainment Group Limited holds a market cap of A$81.45 million with a negative PE ratio of -14.50 reflecting recent losses. Technical signals show mixed momentum with a relative strength index (RSI) near 55 and a money flow index suggesting short-term overbought conditions. Meyka AI issues a HOLD rating with a B grade and forecasts a 4%-7% price upside over the coming year. Analysts provide short-term targets at A$0.33 and 12-month targets at A$0.36, balancing growth potential against risks like earnings volatility and debt. Investors await the earnings report on March 4 for fresh guidance.

Rio Tinto Confirms No Merger Plans with Glencore

February 5, 2026, 11:49 AM EST.Rio Tinto announced on February 5, 2026, it will no longer pursue a merger or business combination with Glencore plc. After careful evaluation aligned with its Capital Markets Day strategy focused on delivering long-term value, Rio Tinto decided it could not reach a deal beneficial for shareholders. This formal statement follows Rule 2.8 of the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers, binding Rio Tinto and affiliates to relevant regulatory restrictions. Exceptions to these restrictions exist, including board agreement from Glencore or a third-party offer. Rio Tinto's decision signifies a clear stance on shareholder value and future opportunities in the mining sector.

Investing in ETFs in 2026: Beginner and Advanced Guide

February 5, 2026, 11:46 AM EST.Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) offer an accessible, low-cost way to invest in the stock market in 2026. Originating in the mid-1990s in the U.S., ETFs replicate performance of assets or baskets of assets; European markets list over 3,400 ETFs, with a global market valued at $19.8 trillion in 2026. First-generation ETFs track major indices like the S&P 500 or CAC 40. Dividends from ETFs are typically annual, differing from stocks' fixed schedules. Second-generation ETFs focus on sector and thematic indices, allowing broad exposure without picking individual stocks. Understanding dividend timing and ETF types is crucial for investors aiming to optimize portfolio positioning this year.

3 Key Insights on ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF as It Hits Two Years

February 5, 2026, 11:44 AM EST. The ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF, a major player in the U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF space with $3.3 billion in assets, marks its second anniversary. Investors should note it offers exposure to Bitcoin's price through an index tracking the CME CF Bitcoin Reference Rate, not direct ownership of the cryptocurrency itself. Unlike Bitcoin's 24/7 market, the ETF trades only during stock exchange hours and carries a 0.21% annual expense ratio, unlike holding Bitcoin directly. ARK's CEO Cathie Wood, a noted Bitcoin advocate, adds a bullish narrative to the fund but investors should independently evaluate the ETF's role in their portfolio.

Is Vanguard S&P 500 ETF a Smart Buy in 2026?

February 5, 2026, 11:42 AM EST. The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) remains the world's largest exchange-traded fund, boasting strong returns fueled by mega-cap tech firms. Despite a high price-to-earnings ratio of 28-one of the highest levels in a century-the S&P 500 shows solid earnings growth, with FactSet projecting 14.7% growth in 2026. Elevated valuations may persist if earnings continue to rise and economic conditions, like inflation and labor markets, hold steady. Investors face risks if growth slows, but fundamentals suggest potential for continued gains in 2026. Careful consideration of earnings momentum against stretched valuations is key for those eyeing VOO now.

Below Deck Sailing Yacht's Dani Soares Discusses Life as a Single Mom and Nurse

February 5, 2026, 11:41 AM EST. Former Below Deck Sailing Yacht star Dani Soares has embraced motherhood and a new career as a registered nurse in Australia, where she became a citizen in 2025. She frequently shares insights on navigating life as a single parent to her daughter Lilly, reflecting on the emotional and challenging aspects of motherhood. Dani, once a yacht crew member and flight attendant, now balances parenting and dating while opening up about the realities behind her social media presence. Her journey from yachting to nursing illustrates a significant life transition marked by resilience and personal growth.

Corn Futures Edge Higher on Wednesday Backed by Export Sales and Soybean Rally

February 5, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. Corn futures gained 1 to 2 cents across front-month contracts on Wednesday, with the national average Cash Corn price rising 2 cents to $3.96 1/4. The rally received spillover support from rising soybean prices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported a private export sale of 130,480 metric tonnes (MT) of corn to undisclosed destinations. Traders await weekly USDA data expected Thursday, forecasting 0.8 to 2.1 million MT of corn sales for the week ending January 29. Ethanol production fell 158,000 barrels per day (bpd) last week to 956,000 bpd, while exports increased by 59,000 bpd to 216,000 bpd, according to Energy Information Administration data. A South Korean buyer purchased 65,000 MT of corn in a private tender, supporting market sentiment.

Fluor Stock Surges 16.6% in January on Growing Project Backlog and Strategic Investments

February 5, 2026, 11:39 AM EST. Fluor's stock jumped 16.6% in January following a nearly 20% decline last year, fueled by confidence from a $20 billion backlog in its Urban Solutions segment, which accounts for three-quarters of total projects. Investors await the company's Q4 results on Feb. 17 for updates on key projects, including a copper mining facility in Canada, a rare earth magnet plant in Texas, and potential pharmaceutical contracts. Fluor's long-term prospects are bolstered by a $90 billion pipeline of new awards and a profitable stake in NuScale Power, a small modular nuclear reactor firm. The company's focus on metals, mining, energy, and technology sectors underpins expectations for sustained growth and financial strength.

Hedge Funds Adjust Arista Networks (ANET) Holdings in Latest 13F Filings

February 5, 2026, 11:38 AM EST. Nine hedge funds reported holdings in Arista Networks Inc (ANET) in their latest 13F filings for the period ending 12/31/2025. These filings, which disclose only long positions, reveal mixed sentiment: five funds increased ANET shares while four decreased them. Aggregate data shows a slight overall reduction of 870,247 shares among 3,586 funds, a 0.48% decline from the previous quarter. The largest holders remained consistent, though detailed names were not specified. Analysts caution that 13F filings exclude short positions, so reported long holdings may not fully represent funds' net stances. Monitoring these filings offers valuable insight into hedge fund trends on ANET over time.

Crude Oil Prices Surge Over US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stalemate and Supply Concerns

February 5, 2026, 11:37 AM EST. Crude oil prices jumped sharply Wednesday, with March WTI up 3.05% and March RBOB gasoline gaining 3.55%, reaching a 2.5-month high. Prices rallied after US-Iran nuclear negotiations hit a snag; the US insisted talks stay in Turkey, while Iran demands Oman, fueling fears of military conflict. Additional bullish factors included a stronger-than-expected EIA report showing declining crude supplies and geopolitical tensions over the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, Venezuelan crude exports increased, adding some bearish pressure. The potential disruption of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, where 20% of global oil passes, adds to market jitters. The IEA and EIA recent revisions indicate slight adjustments in supply-demand forecasts but a continued tight market.

Soybeans Rally on Positive Trade Talks Between U.S. and China

February 5, 2026, 11:26 AM EST. Soybean futures surged after U.S. President Trump announced during a call with China's President Xi plans to increase soybean purchases to 20 million metric tons (MMT), up from 12 MMT. Front month contracts gained 25 to 27 ½ cents, boosting the national average cash price to $10.27 ¾. Soymeal and soyoil futures also rose sharply. Market watchers anticipate the USDA's Export Sales report on Thursday, expecting soybean sales between 0.4-1.6 MMT. This development signals growing optimism over trade relations and potential demand increases from China, a key buyer of U.S. soybeans.

Stock Market Today: S&P 500, Nasdaq Slip on AI Concerns Ahead of Google Earnings

February 5, 2026, 11:24 AM EST. US stocks dropped Wednesday with the S&P 500 down 0.5% and Nasdaq down over 1.5%, pressured by tech sector declines amid AI-related uncertainty. Investors awaited Alphabet's (GOOG) earnings report; shares tumbled 5% after hours despite beating estimates, due to higher-than-expected capital expenditures. Nvidia fell over 3%, Amazon dropped 2%, and Tesla slid more than 3%, reflecting a rotation from tech to value stocks. Pharma stocks diverged: Eli Lilly jumped on strong profit forecast, while Novo Nordisk shares fell on weak sales outlook. The labor market showed signs of strain with ADP reporting only 22,000 jobs added in January. Gold edged higher on geopolitical tensions but struggled to sustain gains. Bitcoin traded near $72,000 amid market volatility. JPMorgan cautions earnings must demonstrate AI benefits to boost market confidence.

FTSE and European Software Shares Plunge Amid Sector-wide Sell-off

February 5, 2026, 11:23 AM EST. Shares in major UK and European software and IT services companies fell sharply this week, with RELX plunging over 13% and shares nearly halving from their peak. Europe's largest software firm, SAP, dropped about 15%, underperforming broader markets. The sell-off follows the launch of Anthropic's AI plug-ins that sparked concerns over disruption to data and professional services industries. Analysts warn of rising selectivity as investors question the profitability and funding of AI ventures, causing caution toward growth stocks in the sector. The weakness spread globally, reflecting broad investor reassessment of high valuations, corporate spending, and the outlook for software profits. The Nasdaq could find support near 25,000, presenting a potential value opportunity amid this sector correction.

Stocks Slide on Weak Labor Market Data and AI Sector Fears

February 5, 2026, 11:22 AM EST. US stocks declined sharply Thursday amid growing concerns over artificial intelligence (AI) impacts on software companies and fresh economic data signaling a weakening labor market. The Dow fell 1.29%, the S&P 500 dropped 1.37%, and the Nasdaq Composite tumbled 1.74%, marking its worst three-day slide since April. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX), Wall Street's fear gauge, surged above 20, indicating elevated market volatility. Investors reacted to a release by AI firm Anthropic and worries about reduced coder demand affecting software industry revenues. Major tech names like Microsoft and Alphabet saw sizable share losses after earnings reports gave mixed signals on AI investments. Meanwhile, labor market weakness surfaced as job openings hit their lowest point since 2020, intensifying risk-off sentiment. Bitcoin fell below $67,000, while gold and silver prices also dropped amid the turbulence.

Short Sales Surge on TSX Amid Software Stock Declines, Gold Sector Gains Spotlight

February 5, 2026, 11:21 AM EST.Short selling activity on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) highlights sharp declines in software stocks, while gold stocks attract notable investor interest. Activist short seller Carson Block has taken a commanding position in Mayfair Gold Corp, which rose about 35% over three months despite late January's gold sell-off. Mayfair's promising pre-feasibility study projects strong returns at an average all-in sustaining cost of US$1,171 per ounce over six years. Meanwhile, the top 20 shorted Canadian stocks include persistent names, with healthcare company AbCellera Biologics facing revenue declines amid heavy R&D investments. Large short positions typically signal potential underperformance, influencing market sentiment. This dynamic unfolds amid broader sectoral shifts, with gold viewed as a safer bet compared to volatile tech and software equities.

Lean Hog Futures Mixed as USDA Reports Rising Prices and Variable Cutout Values

February 5, 2026, 11:12 AM EST. Lean hog futures closed mixed on Wednesday, swinging between 55 cents lower and 30 cents higher. The USDA's national base hog price rose 45 cents to $86.29, while the CME Lean Hog Index increased 12 cents to $85.83. Despite this, pork carcass cutout values fell $4.37 to $93.00 per hundredweight, with only the picnic primal rising amid a sharp $19.49 drop in bellies. Federally inspected hog slaughter totaled 495,000 head, slightly above last week but down from last year. Open interest increased by 2,415 contracts, indicating sustained market activity in lean hog futures amid mixed price signals.

Rio Tinto Shares Show Strong Momentum but Valuation Debates Continue

February 5, 2026, 11:11 AM EST. Rio Tinto Group's (LSE:RIO) shares have surged 15% in one month and over 33% in three months, with a one-year total shareholder return of nearly 52%, reflecting strong momentum. Despite recent strength pushing the share price to £70.05, market valuations remain mixed. A popular valuation model suggests the stock is about 10% overvalued versus a fair value of £63.89, factoring in steady growth and improved profit margins. However, a discounted cash flow model values Rio Tinto at £83, indicating the current price may be 16% undervalued based on future cash flows. Risks such as project delays or geopolitical factors could alter outlooks. Investors are encouraged to examine underlying assumptions and consider sector alternatives like aerospace and defense.

Live Cattle Futures Edge Up Amid Slow Cash Trade and Lower Boxed Beef Prices

February 5, 2026, 11:09 AM EST. Live cattle futures posted modest gains on Wednesday, rising 17 to 60 cents across front months, while open interest increased by 2,822 contracts. The Wednesday Fed Cattle Exchange auction offered 1,602 head but recorded no sales, with bids at $237 per head. Cash cattle trade remains slow, lingering around last week's $238-$240 range. Feeder cattle futures gained $1.35 to $2.15, despite the CME Feeder Cattle Index dropping 44 cents to $374.57. Wholesale boxed beef prices declined, with Choice boxes down $2.69 to $368.02 and Select boxes down $5.14 to $362.09. USDA reported a federal cattle slaughter of 113,000 head on Wednesday, 12,000 more than last week but 20,175 fewer than the same week last year, signaling mixed market signals ahead of Thursday's trading session.

Soybeans Extend Gains Amid U.S.-China Talks and Rising Export Prospects

February 5, 2026, 11:08 AM EST. Soybeans futures advanced Thursday morning by 6 to 8 ½ cents in front months, following a strong rally with gains up to 27 ½ cents on Wednesday. Gains were boosted after U.S. President Trump's update on talks with China, indicating a potential rise in soybean purchase commitments to 20 million metric tons, up from 12 million. Open interest increased by 16,470 contracts. The national average cash bean price climbed 26 1/4 cents to $10.27 3/4. Soymeal and soy oil futures also rose. Traders anticipate USDA's Export Sales report, expecting soybean sales between 0.4 to 1.6 million metric tons for the week ended January 29. The market activity reflects heightened optimism on soybean export demand amid trade negotiations.

Wheat Prices Show Modest Declines Amid Large Global Supplies

February 5, 2026, 11:07 AM EST. Wheat prices posted slight losses Thursday morning, with most winter wheat contracts trading fractionally lower while spring wheat edged up by a penny. Chicago SRW futures fell 1-2 cents Wednesday, while Kansas City HRW futures dropped 4-5 cents. Minneapolis spring wheat was down 2-3 cents so far. Open interest declined across contracts on Wednesday, indicating reduced trading activity. Analysts await U.S. Export Sales data expected to show 300,000-600,000 metric tons sold in the week ending January 29. Large global supplies, including Russia's 2025 wheat crop estimated at 93 million metric tons, continue to pressure prices. Futures for March and May delivery reflected these trends with modest declines at midday.

Cotton Prices Decline on Thursday Amid Mixed Commodity Signals

February 5, 2026, 11:06 AM EST. Cotton prices fell 15 to 30 points in early Thursday trading, continuing a downward trend from Wednesday's close where front-month futures dropped 7 to 12 points. The US dollar index rose to 97.515, while crude oil futures gained $1.26, hitting $64.47 per barrel. A recent online auction recorded sales at 55.62 cents per pound for 8,680 bales. The Cotlook A Index, a global cotton price benchmark, slipped 45 points to 73.35 cents on February 3. ICE certified cotton stocks increased by 2,247 bales, reaching 36,515 bales, with the Adjusted World Price last updated at 50.23 cents per pound. March, May, and July cotton futures all declined, reflecting mixed signals in commodity markets.

TMG.AX Stocks Surge 9.09% Pre-Market on ASX Amid Lake Throssell Project Interest

February 5, 2026, 11:05 AM EST. TMG.AX shares jumped 9.09% in pre-market trading to A$0.12 on the Australian Securities Exchange on Feb 6, 2026, driven by renewed investor focus on Trigg Minerals' Lake Throssell brine project. Volume reached 9.8 million, approaching average levels, signaling strong buyer activity despite a softer Basic Materials sector. Technical indicators show a rebound off the 200-day moving average at A$0.09, with resistance near A$0.13. Meyka AI assigns a HOLD rating (64.38/100) with a 12-month price target of A$0.22, suggesting 83% upside potential. Trigg Minerals holds exploration-stage metrics with negative earnings per share and stretched valuation multiples, reflecting significant risks amid opportunities in fertilizer demand. Sector weakness implies company-specific factors will drive TMG.AX performance today.

ALNRG.PA surges 17.65% intraday on EURONEXT, signaling strong buying interest

February 5, 2026, 11:04 AM EST. ALNRG.PA stock jumped 17.65% intraday to €0.006 on EURONEXT on Feb 5, 2026, driven by robust volume of 8.5 million shares, exceeding the 50-day average price. This places SA Energisme among Europe's top gainers in the technology sector, which overall moved just 0.81%. The surge reflects heightened liquidity and sector rotation into smaller software firms rather than a specific news catalyst. Fundamentals remain mixed with a market cap near €12 million, a low P/E of 0.04, but strained working capital indicated by nearly 589 days sales outstanding. Meyka AI assigns a Hold rating (Grade B), balancing upside potential with structural risks. Technicals show a firm intraday trend but no overbought signals, with key support near €0.0051. Investors should track sector peers and volume for next moves.

Corn Futures Edge Higher Amid Export Sales and Ethanol Production Data

February 5, 2026, 11:00 AM EST. Corn futures held slight gains midday, with cash corn prices up 1.25 cents to $3.95 1/2. A private export sale of 130,480 metric tons (MT) was reported to unknown destinations, while a South Korean importer bought 65,000 MT in a private tender. Ethanol production fell by 158,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 956,000 bpd last week, with stocks down 264,000 barrels. Exports rose 59,000 bpd. Traders anticipate USDA weekly sales data on Thursday, expecting 0.8-2.1 million MT sold for the week ending Jan. 29. March corn futures stood at $4.29 1/2, up 1 cent, with May and July 2026 contracts also posting modest gains. These moves reflect cautious optimism amid fluctuating demand and production shifts in related markets.

Soybeans Rally on Trump's China Soybean Purchase Comments

February 5, 2026, 10:59 AM EST. Soybean futures surged early Monday by 19 to 21 cents following a late Sunday social media post by President Trump, who said China is concerned about its soybean shortage and hoped it would quadruple orders from U.S. farmers. This lifted market hopes for increased Chinese demand despite recent price losses on Friday. Cash bean prices fell slightly, but soybean meal prices edged higher. Managed money increased net short positions, while commercials reduced theirs ahead of the U.S. Crop Production report, expected Tuesday. Analysts project a soybean yield of 53 bushels per acre and production of 4.374 billion bushels, up 39 million from July. New crop soybean stocks are forecast up 41 million bushels to 351 million. Market reactions reflect tight global supplies and trade tensions, as traders await detailed U.S. production data.

Should Investors Buy Amazon Stock Ahead of Q4 Earnings?

February 5, 2026, 10:58 AM EST. Amazon's upcoming Q4 earnings report is drawing investor attention amid cautious market sentiment. Market watchers are weighing Amazon.com's growth prospects in retail and cloud computing against challenges like supply chain disruptions and inflation pressures. The report could set the tone for how the stock performs in the near term, given its substantial role in the tech and consumer sectors. Investors face a crucial decision: to buy ahead of the release, betting on strong results, or wait for clearer signals from the company's performance. Analyst forecasts vary, reflecting uncertainty over consumer demand trends and Amazon Web Services' growth. The Q4 report offers a key opportunity to gauge Amazon's resilience in a complex economic landscape.

QQQ Stock Falls 2.1% Amid Mixed Tech Earnings and AI Concerns

February 5, 2026, 10:57 AM EST. The Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (QQQ), tracking the Nasdaq-100 index, dropped about 2.1% on February 4, 2026, falling to around $603.6 by mid-afternoon U.S. trading. Despite strong earnings reports from major tech firms, investor sentiment turned cautious due to warning signs in forward guidance and concerns over demand and pricing power. The market's split view on artificial intelligence (AI) also weighed on performance; hardware and platform companies benefit from AI advances, while traditional software and data analytics firms face pressure from automation fears. Heavy concentration in mega-cap tech names magnifies volatility in the QQQ, accentuating declines even as smaller components remain stable. This shows that even with positive earnings, growth-focused ETFs like QQQ can see notable swings amid evolving market risks.

Invesco QQQ Shares Drop 1.7% Amid Nasdaq Weakness and Tech Selloff

February 5, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. Invesco QQQ (NASDAQ:QQQ) shares fell 1.7% Wednesday, hitting an intraday low of $600.47 before closing at $605.75. Volume surged 41% above average with 79.6 million shares traded, reflecting heightened market activity. Institutional buying from Penserra Capital Management signals some support, but broad Nasdaq declines and pressure on mega-cap tech stocks dragged QQQ lower. Technical analysts warn of a potential major breakdown in the Nasdaq-100 index, which could prompt further ETF outflows. The recent quarterly dividend rose to $0.7941, yielding 0.5%. Rising market volatility fueled by Fed policy uncertainty and rotation from growth to defensives compounds downward pressure on QQQ this week.

Cotton Prices Rise on Wednesday Amid Steady Gains and Market Updates

February 5, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. Cotton prices rose modestly on Wednesday, with front month futures gaining up to 8 points after falling sharply on Tuesday. The Mar 26 cotton contract traded at 62.39 cents per pound, up 8 points, while May and July contracts were steady to slightly higher. The US dollar strengthened to 97.570, and crude oil futures increased by $1.92 to $65.14 per barrel. Tuesday's online auction from The Seam recorded sales at 55.62 cents per pound on 8,680 bales. ICE certified cotton stocks rose by 2,247 to 36,515 bales as of February 3, while the Cotlook A Index fell further to 73.35 cents. The Adjusted World Price stood at 50.23 cents per pound last week. These shifts highlight a cautious market with mixed signals across commodities.

Bob's Discount Furniture debuts on NYSE at $17, targets 500 stores by 2035

February 5, 2026, 10:53 AM EST. Bob's Discount Furniture, known for affordable home furniture, will begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange Thursday with an IPO price of $17 per share, within its expected range of $17-$19. Founded in 1991 and based in Manchester, Connecticut, the company operates 206 stores across 26 states and aims to expand to over 500 by 2035. It differentiates itself through a value-focused model, offering prices about 10% to 25% below competitors by curating fewer items, leveraging bulk buying, and maintaining efficient supply chains. Bob's emphasizes fast delivery, promising most orders in as few as three days, compared with typical weeks-long waits. Shares will trade under the ticker symbol BOBS.

Market Slip as Chip and AI Stocks Weigh on S&P and Nasdaq

February 5, 2026, 10:52 AM EST. The S&P 500 fell 0.51% to a two-week low, while the Nasdaq 100 dropped 1.77% to a seven-week low on Wednesday. Investors sold off high-flying chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks, with Advanced Micro Devices plunging over 17% after a weak Q1 sales forecast. Super Micro Computer and Amgen bucked the trend, rising 13% and 8% respectively on strong sales outlooks. Economic data was mixed: January ADP employment gains missed forecasts, while the ISM services index held firm. Sentiment improved following the U.S. government funding deal signed by President Trump. Treasury plans $125 billion in debt auctions next week. Mortgage applications fell 8.9%. The focus shifts to earnings and economic releases this week, with most S&P 500 firms surpassing expectations so far this quarter.

Elon Musk's xAI-SpaceX Mega-Merger May Impact SpaceX IPO Plans

February 5, 2026, 10:50 AM EST. Elon Musk has merged SpaceX and his AI-focused firm xAI, creating a private entity valued around $1.25 trillion. This mega-merger includes xAI's Grok and the social media platform X, as well as the massive supercomputer Colossus. While this makes SpaceX potentially the world's most valuable private company, Musk aims to list SpaceX on the stock market later this year. The IPO could be the largest ever, possibly exceeding Saudi Aramco's $30 billion record. Analysts suggest the merger signals Musk's ambition to unify his ventures, potentially combining SpaceX with Tesla, a $1.6 trillion public company. This consolidation might affect SpaceX's IPO trajectory, either enhancing its appeal or delaying public market entry. The move reflects Musk's strategy to centralize his tech empire while offering investors new opportunities to engage with pioneering space and AI businesses.

Cocoa Prices Fall Amid Surplus and Weak Demand Ahead of Ivory Coast Harvest

February 5, 2026, 10:41 AM EST. Cocoa prices dropped sharply on Wednesday, with March ICE NY cocoa down 4.98% and London cocoa 3.72%, pressured by abundant global supplies and weak demand. Global cocoa stocks rose 4.2% year-on-year to 1.1 million metric tons, while forecasts predict ongoing surpluses in the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons. Demand slumped as consumers hesitated at high chocolate prices; Barry Callebaut reported a 22% sales volume decline in its cocoa division. European and Asian cocoa grindings also fell significantly in Q4, signaling sluggish consumption. Contrastingly, Ivory Coast farmers' shipments dipped slightly by 4.7%, and favorable West African growing conditions suggest a robust new harvest. However, rising inventories in U.S. ports and healthy pod counts exert downward pressure on prices despite these factors.

Rebecca Ferguson Reflects on 'Scary' On-Set Incident with 'Idiot' Co-Star

February 5, 2026, 10:40 AM EST. Rebecca Ferguson, star of "Dune," recounted a frightening on-set experience where a male co-star yelled at her, saying, "You call yourself an actor?" In a new Harper's Bazaar UK interview, she said she would now handle it by addressing the issue privately. The actress described feeling vulnerable and crying after the encounters, with no support from producers who protected the top-billed actor. Ferguson emphasized the importance of recent cultural shifts, saying, "The pendulum needs to swing to the other side" to achieve balance. The incident, which she first spoke about in February 2024, drew support from Dwayne Johnson. Ferguson's reflections highlight the continuing conversation about workplace respect in entertainment.

Wheat Prices Dip on Wednesday Amid Anticipation of Export Sales Data

February 5, 2026, 10:38 AM EST. Wheat futures traded lower Wednesday, with Chicago Soft Red Winter (SRW) contracts down 1-2 cents, Kansas City Hard Red Winter (HRW) falling 2-3 cents, and Minneapolis spring wheat slipping 1-2 cents. The market awaits U.S. Export Sales data due Thursday, where analysts forecast wheat sales between 300,000 and 600,000 metric tons for the week ending January 29. March 2026 CBOT wheat futures were at $5.27 per bushel, May 2026 contracts at $5.36. Barchart commodities analysis remains available for traders tracking these moves. The drop reflects cautious positioning ahead of the import-export data, a crucial indicator for wheat market sentiment and global supply-demand balance.

Corn Prices Slip Lower in Early Thursday Trade Amid Mixed Market Signals

February 5, 2026, 10:36 AM EST. Corn futures edged down by about 1.5 cents early Thursday after Wednesday's gains of 1 to 2 cents across front-month contracts. Open interest data showed a rise of 5,920 contracts, despite a decrease of 16,212 contracts for March delivery. National average cash corn prices increased slightly to $3.96 1/4, supported partly by soybean rallies. Ethanol production dropped by 158,000 barrels per day last week, with stocks declining and exports rising. A South Korean private tender bought 65,000 metric tons of corn. Market watchers anticipate weekly corn sales data between 0.8 and 2.1 million metric tons for the week ending January 29, showing steady but cautious demand.

Coffee Prices Drop Sharply as Supply Outlook Improves with Brazil Rainfall and Rising Vietnamese Production

February 5, 2026, 10:35 AM EST. Coffee prices fell sharply on Wednesday, with March arabica hitting a 5.75-month low and robusta a 6-week low amid an improving supply outlook. Brazilian rainfall eased dryness fears in Minas Gerais, lifting supply prospects. Brazil's 2025 coffee output forecast rose 2.4% to 56.54 million bags. Meanwhile, Vietnam, the top robusta producer, saw coffee exports jump 17.5% year-on-year and 2025/26 production is expected to reach a four-year high at 1.76 million metric tons. Recovering ICE coffee inventories further pressured prices. However, falling Brazilian exports and slightly tighter global supplies provide some price support. The USDA projects a 2% rise in global coffee output for 2025/26, with robusta growing by nearly 11% and arabica declining by 4.7%, reflecting shifting market dynamics.

Global Sugar Surpluses Drag Prices Lower Amid Record Production

February 5, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. Sugar prices fell sharply on Wednesday, with March New York world sugar down 1.3% and March London ICE white sugar down 1.39%. Persistent global sugar surpluses, expected to reach 3.4 million metric tons (MMT) in 2026/27 following an 8.3 MMT surplus in 2025/26, pressured markets. Key factors include a 0.9% rise in Brazil's 2025-26 sugar output and a 22% year-on-year increase in India's sugar production through mid-January. India's lowered ethanol sugar usage and potential expanded exports threaten supply glut. Analysts from Czarnikow, Green Pool, StoneX, and Covrig Analytics forecast continued surpluses despite a predicted production drop in Brazil for 2026/27. The outlook remains bearish, driven by rising global production and growing export prospects, particularly from India, the world's second-largest producer.

Perseus Mining's Ongoing Buy-Back Supports Stable Production and Capital Allocation

February 5, 2026, 10:24 AM EST. Perseus Mining (ASX:PRU) reported steady gold production of 424,989 ounces and sales of 437,022 ounces in 2025, maintaining fiscal 2026 guidance of 400,000-440,000 ounces at an All-In Site Cost (AISC) of US$1,800 per ounce. The company's active on-market share buy-back, nearing 1 million shares, underscores a disciplined capital management approach. This move may enhance earnings per share but increases scrutiny on operational execution and cost control. Market views on Perseus's valuation vary widely, reflecting uncertainty on cost performance and production outcomes. Investors are advised to monitor upcoming H1 FY26 results and any shifts in cost guidance as key catalysts. Perseus remains a low-multiple gold producer with strong liquidity and a commitment to returning capital, appealing to long-term, value-focused shareholders.

Chubu-Nippon Broadcasting Q3 2026 Earnings Show 30.9% Growth, 5.3% Margin

February 5, 2026, 10:22 AM EST. Chubu-Nippon Broadcasting (NSE:9402) reported Q3 2026 revenue of ¥8.96 billion and basic EPS of ¥33.12, up from ¥8.62 billion and ¥29.85 a year ago. The trailing twelve months (TTM) show net income at ¥1.84 billion on ¥34.47 billion revenue and EPS growth of 30.9%. The company posted a net margin of 5.3% compared with 4.2% last year, underscoring improved profitability despite quarterly swings in net income between ¥9 million and ¥873 million. The stock trades at a trailing P/E of 15.4 times, above peers but below the media industry average of 16.2. A discounted cash flow (DCF) model suggests a fair value of ¥2,239.36 versus the current price of ¥1,074, highlighting potential undervaluation amid investor debate on margin sustainability and earnings durability.

Alphabet Weighs on Wall Street as Bitcoin, Silver, Gold Prices Falter

February 5, 2026, 10:20 AM EST. Wall Street slipped with the S&P 500 down 0.8%, marking its sixth loss in seven sessions despite Alphabet's strong profit report. The parent of Google tumbled 5.4% as investors braced for its soaring $180 billion artificial intelligence investment, far surpassing expectations. Treasury yields fell amid signs of rising layoffs, with jobless claims climbing more than anticipated and January job cuts hitting a 14-year peak, raising concerns of a slowing U.S. job market. This spurred speculation that the Federal Reserve might ease interest rates despite inflation risks. Commodities saw sharp declines: silver plummeted 12.1% after recent volatility, while gold dropped 1.9%, reacting to dramatic price swings over the past year.

Plains GP Holdings Sets to Report Q4 Earnings with Analysts Expecting $0.58 EPS

February 5, 2026, 10:19 AM EST. Plains GP Holdings (NASDAQ:PAGP) is due to announce quarterly earnings on February 6, 2026, with analysts forecasting an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.58. The company missed EPS estimates by $0.12 in the previous quarter, but its shares still rose modestly by 0.35% afterward. As of February 4, PAGP shares traded at $21.10, marking a slight 0.82% increase over the past year. Long-term investors appear cautiously optimistic ahead of the report, which could sway the stock based on forward guidance and market expectations rather than just historical performance.

Veradermics Raises $256M in Oversubscribed IPO, Shares Double on Debut

February 5, 2026, 10:18 AM EST. Veradermics, a Connecticut biotech developing an oral version of minoxidil (the active molecule in hair regrowth drug Rogaine), raised $256.3 million in its initial public offering (IPO) priced at $17 per share. Trading under the ticker MANE on the New York Stock Exchange, shares surged to close at $37.75 on debut, more than doubling the IPO price. The company's oral formulation aims to address compliance issues seen with topical Rogaine, which many patients discontinue due to messy application. Veradermics attracted interest from investors like Eli Lilly and Wellington Management during the IPO. This listing follows a $150 million series C funding round to support phase 3 trials of its lead drug candidate VDPHL01. The IPO reflects growing investor enthusiasm in biotechs targeting hair loss, amid competition from players like Pelage Pharmaceuticals and Cosmo Pharmaceuticals.

Sirius XM Q4 2025 Revenue Beats Estimates Despite Profit Miss, Shares Surge

February 5, 2026, 10:12 AM EST. Satellite radio provider Sirius XM (NASDAQ:SIRI) posted Q4 CY2025 revenue of $2.19 billion, slightly exceeding Wall Street forecasts by 1% but remaining flat year-on-year. The company's GAAP earnings per share of $0.24 missed analyst expectations by 69%, highlighting lower profitability. Adjusted EBITDA rose 4.5% above estimates to $691 million, with a 31.5% margin. Operating margin dropped to 10.3% from 23.1% a year earlier, reflecting ongoing pressure from high expenses. Subscriber numbers declined by 443,000 to 38.56 million. Despite stable revenue guidance for the next year, Sirius XM's long-term growth has been weak, with a 1.3% annual sales increase over five years. The stock rallied on the revenue beat, but profitability challenges remain for the broadcasting firm in a competitive media landscape.

Birchtech Plans NYSE American Uplist with Concurrent Offering

February 5, 2026, 10:11 AM EST. Birchtech Corp., a specialty activated carbon technology company, announced its expected uplist to the NYSE American stock exchange, with common stock trading beginning around February 12, 2026, pending final approval. Concurrently, Birchtech is conducting a stock offering contingent on the uplisting. Currently trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange and OTCQB, Birchtech's shares will cease OTCQB trading upon NYSE American listing. CEO Richard MacPherson stated the uplist aims to boost visibility, liquidity, and investor awareness. The company continues to focus on sustainable growth and expanding its water treatment platform. Listings remain subject to regulatory approvals and compliance with exchange rules.

NYSE Highlights IPO Debuts of Bob's Discount Furniture and Forgent Power Solutions

February 5, 2026, 10:10 AM EST. The New York Stock Exchange launched trading for Bob's Discount Furniture (NYSE: BOBS) and Forgent Power Solutions (NYSE: FPS) on February 5, 2026. Bob's Discount Furniture, an omnichannel retailer, raised over $330 million in its IPO, pricing shares at $17 each, with a market capitalization projected at $2.2 billion. Forgent Power Solutions, specializing in electrical equipment, priced shares at $27 in its IPO, raising $1.5 billion and valuing the company at $8.2 billion. NYSE also highlighted an interview with Dr. Alan Barrots, CEO of D-Wave (NYSE: QBTS), discussing a recent $20 million sale to Florida Atlantic University. This update precedes regular trading, offering early market insights for investors.

AISTRYX Launches AI-Powered Stock Analysis Software for Private and Controlled Trading

February 5, 2026, 10:09 AM EST. AISTRYX, a new AI-driven stock analysis platform for macOS, offers an innovative trading terminal combining live charts, portfolio tracking, and broker integration. It emphasizes privacy by running entirely locally, storing encrypted API keys and user data on the device without using the cloud. The software integrates with brokers like Trading 212, IG Group, and Alpaca, allowing direct trade execution. AISTRYX features explainable AI, powered by Google Gemini, which provides plain-language market insights without automated trading, helping investors make informed decisions. Developed by 5N6 LTD in Bedfordshire, UK, this tool targets serious investors seeking a secure, all-in-one platform for stock analysis and trade management, available now at aistryx.com.

Lean Hog Futures Close Mixed as Pork Cutout Values Decline

February 5, 2026, 10:08 AM EST. Lean hog futures ended mixed Wednesday, with May contracts down 35 cents. The USDA's national average base hog negotiated price rose $1.87 to $91.87. The CME Lean Hog Index increased 37 cents to $86.08 on April 21. Meanwhile, pork cutout values fell $1.70 to $94.08, with most primal cuts lower except for the butt primal. USDA estimated federally inspected hog slaughter at 488,000 head, down 133,000 from last week and 121,024 less than the same week last year. Market dynamics show tightening hog supply despite some price gains in negotiated hog prices, reflecting ongoing industry challenges.

Golar LNG Share Price Seen Overvalued After Strong Gains, Analysts Say

February 5, 2026, 10:07 AM EST. Golar LNG (GLNG) has delivered a strong five-year return, tripling its share price, yet current analysis suggests its valuation may be stretched. Despite recent gains of 6.4% over the past month and 6.9% year to date, the Dividend Discount Model (DDM)-which estimates a stock's value based on projected dividends-values GLNG at about $15.06 per share, well below the market price near $40.58. This indicates an implied overvaluation of roughly 170%. GLNG scored only 1 out of 6 on Simply Wall St's valuation checklist, highlighting potential red flags. The high payout ratio of 92.56% limits retained earnings for growth, suggesting modest long-term dividend growth of 0.32%. Investors should interpret such metrics carefully amid sector volatility driven by LNG shipping and energy security trends.

Latest 13F Filings Show Mixed Moves in Microsoft Holdings by Hedge Funds

February 5, 2026, 10:06 AM EST.Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) was held by 21 of the 22 most recent 13F filers for the period ending June 30, 2025, according to Holdings Channel data. Hedge funds showed varied activity: 7 increased existing positions, 12 decreased, and 1 new position emerged. Overall, the aggregate MSFT shares held by these funds fell by 17,228 shares, although market value rose by $54.9 million. 13F filings reveal only long stock positions, omitting short bets, so they provide an incomplete view of sentiment. Despite this, the data signals a cautious stance among top managers, with significant shifts in holdings during the quarter. Tracking these movements helps investors gauge hedge fund confidence in Microsoft.

Latest 13F Filings Show Increased Hedge Fund Holdings in Ishares Silver Trust (SLV)

February 5, 2026, 10:05 AM EST. Analysis of the most recent 48 13F filings for the 12/31/2025 period reveals 18 funds hold shares of Ishares Silver Trust (SLV). Among these, 8 funds increased their holdings, 5 decreased, and 3 initiated new positions. Aggregate SLV holdings by these funds rose by 3.5 million shares, from approximately 37.5 million to 41 million, suggesting a growing interest in silver exposure. 13F filings detail long positions but omit short ones, so these numbers provide a partial view of fund strategies. Overall, the data indicates a notable increase in hedge fund confidence toward SLV in the latest reporting period.

Latest 13F Filings Show Increased Holdings in Vanguard VEU ETF

February 5, 2026, 10:04 AM EST. Analysis of the most recent 13F filings for the 12/31/2024 reporting period reveals nine funds holding Vanguard International Equity Index Fund ETF (VEU). Among these, four funds increased their stakes while three reduced positions and one initiated a new holding. Aggregate data across 3,973 funds shows a 7.21% rise in VEU holdings, with total shares climbing by approximately 8.7 million. Top funds include Madison Investment Advisors, which significantly boosted holdings by over 199,000 shares valued at $11.4 million. However, 13F filings disclose only long positions, omitting shorts, so the full investment stance may be unclear. Tracking these filings provides valuable insights into institutional activity in international equity ETFs.

Dollar Gains as US Government Shutdown Ends; Stocks Slip

February 5, 2026, 10:02 AM EST. The U.S. dollar index rose 0.19% Wednesday following the end of the partial government shutdown after President Trump signed a funding deal. A weaker stock market boosted demand for the dollar, while yen weakness, hitting a 1.5-week low, also supported the greenback. The dollar's advance was underpinned by a stronger-than-expected January ISM services index, despite a softer-than-anticipated ADP employment report signaling modest job growth. The market's focus on Federal Reserve policy continued, with hawkish expectations ahead after Trump's Fed Chair nominee, Keven Warsh, and the probability of future rate cuts limited. In contrast, the euro weakened on revised lower Eurozone inflation and PMI data, constraining ECB rate hike expectations. The dollar-yen pairing rose as the yen continued to decline, reflecting divergent monetary policy outlooks.

Tesla Stock Analysis 2026: Hold Amid EV Decline and AI Uncertainty

February 5, 2026, 9:53 AM EST. Tesla (TSLA) shares fell nearly 10% year-to-date, trading at $406.62 amid a challenging landscape. Despite CEO Elon Musk's ambition to pivot Tesla into artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, recent data show declining vehicle deliveries and sales, with 2025 revenue dropping to $94.8 billion from $97.7 billion in 2024. European EV shipments notably fell, including an 88% drop in Norway. The much-anticipated Cybertruck is underperforming, shipping far fewer units than forecasted. Wall Street is cautious: the consensus is a 'Hold' with a 12-month price target of $393.51, though some analysts recommend 'Sell.' Tesla's AI aspirations face headwinds from a cooling tech sector and fears of an AI bubble, limiting bullish momentum. Investors should weigh these mixed signals amid EV market pressures and AI sector uncertainty.

Global Sugar Prices Drop Amid Forecasts of Continued Surpluses

February 5, 2026, 9:50 AM EST. Sugar prices declined sharply with March NY world sugar #11 down 1.3% and March London ICE white sugar falling 1.68%. Analysts from Czarnikow forecast a global sugar surplus of 3.4 million metric tons (MMT) for 2026/27, following an 8.3 MMT surplus last year. Higher output in Brazil, the world's leading producer, and India, the second-largest producer, are increasing global supplies. India's sugar output rose 22% year-on-year, while Brazil's crop forecast was raised to 45 MMT for 2025/26 by Conab. Lower domestic sugar use for ethanol in India may boost exports, applying further downward pressure on prices. Despite some expectations of smaller sugar supplies post-2026, the near-term surplus outlook weighs heavily on the market.

Wedbush Raises Alphabet (GOOGL) Price Target to $370, Signs of Market Confidence

February 5, 2026, 9:48 AM EST. Wedbush increased its price target for Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOGL) from $360 to $370, reflecting an 11.1% upside potential, while maintaining an "outperform" rating. Other firms like KeyCorp and Wells Fargo also boosted their targets, with KeyCorp at $370 and Wells Fargo at $350. Alphabet's stock opened at $333.04, within a 52-week range of $140.53 to $349.00. The company posted strong Q4 earnings with $2.82 earnings per share, surpassing analyst expectations. Despite insider sales, Alphabet maintains a robust outlook with a market cap exceeding $4 trillion and an average analyst rating of "Buy." These moves indicate growing confidence in the tech giant's financial performance and market position.

Lean Hog Futures Show Mixed Results Amid Rising Pork Prices

February 5, 2026, 9:47 AM EST. Lean hog futures finished Wednesday with gains of 37 to 97 cents for front-month contracts but declines of 20 to 55 cents for back-months. The national average base hog negotiated price rose 24 cents to $78.03. The CME Lean Hog Index climbed 14 cents to $83.98 on December 16. USDA's pork cutout value increased $1.58 to $96.35 per hundredweight, reflecting mixed changes across primal cuts. Estimated Wednesday hog slaughter reached 488,000 head, slightly below last week but up year-on-year. February, April, and May 2025 hog futures all closed higher, signaling bullish sentiment despite mixed contract performance.

Global-E Online (GLBE) Valuation Dips Amid Share Price Slump, Positioned 33% Undervalued at $50 Fair Value

February 5, 2026, 9:46 AM EST. Global-E Online (GLBE) shares have declined 12.55% over the past month and 44.38% annually, closing recently at $33.58. Despite this, the company reported revenue of $888.45 million with 21% growth and net income up 60%. Analysts place fair value near $50.08, indicating an undervaluation of approximately 33%, based on expected earnings and margin expansion driven by partnerships with Shopify and DHL. However, the stock trades at a price-to-sales ratio of 6.4x, substantially higher than industry and peer benchmarks, reflecting stretched valuation amid heightened market risks such as increased competition post-Shopify exclusivity and regulatory challenges. Investors face considerations on whether current weakness offers a buying opportunity or prices in growth uncertainties.

Plug Power Stock Faces Sharp Decline, Technicals Signal Further Drop

February 5, 2026, 9:37 AM EST.Plug Power shares plunged over 55%, dropping from $4.58 in October to $2.05, as technical indicators suggest more downside risk. The stock remains under its 50- and 100-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs) and below key support levels, forming a bearish flag pattern that hints at further declines towards $1.57. The hydrogen energy company is battling shrinking equipment sales and escalating losses, with a net loss reaching $789 million in nine months. Cash burn and a possible new equity raise pose dilution risks. Limited demand for hydrogen energy and weak order flow add to investor caution. A rebound above $2.65 is needed to reverse the negative trend, but challenges persist as Plug Power struggles amid tougher sector fundamentals.

Euronext Dublin Issues Floating Amount Writedown Notice for Magnolia Finance II Plc

February 5, 2026, 9:36 AM EST. Euronext Dublin has published a notice regarding a floating amount writedown for Magnolia Finance II Plc. This event pertains to adjustments in the valuation of floating rate financial instruments, impacting investors' exposure. The notice, disseminated through official market data providers including ICE Data Services and FactSet, alerts market participants to the writedown. Such notices are crucial for transparency in debt instrument management on the exchange. Magnolia Finance II Plc's stakeholders and broader market watchers are advised to review the details to understand implications for bond valuations and related securities.

RBC Bearings Reports Q4 Sales Growth; Q1 Guidance Misses Estimates

February 5, 2026, 9:35 AM EST. RBC Bearings (NYSE:RBC) posted Q4 CY2025 sales of $461.6 million, up 17% year-on-year, matching analyst expectations. The company's non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $3.04 surpassed estimates by 6.2%, and adjusted EBITDA margin beat forecasts at 32.4%. However, revenue guidance for Q1 CY2026 at $500 million fell 1.6% short of analyst estimates of $508 million. CEO Michael J. Hartnett highlighted strength in Aerospace & Defense and steady Industrial business performance. RBC Bearings has a strong five-year annualized revenue growth rate of 23.1%, reflecting solid demand. Despite the guidance miss, the company remains focused on strategic growth, production capacity expansion, and free cash flow generation, positioning it for long-term value creation.

Jim Cramer's Top 10 Market Watch Items for February 5

February 5, 2026, 9:31 AM EST. Jim Cramer highlights Big Tech weakness, with S&P futures dropping and Bitcoin falling below $70,000 amid a crypto sell-off. Silver plunged 10%, oil prices fell 2.5% due to U.S.-Iran tensions, and bond yields declined as investors sought safe havens. Job market concerns rise: planned layoffs hit highest since 2008, hiring intentions at lows, and January employment data delayed. Alphabet sees Wall Street price target hikes post-strong quarter boosted by tax benefits but shares fell 5%. Sony beats earnings but faces memory chip pressure, prompting a buy on Take-Two Interactive. Qualcomm downgraded due to handset market weakness. Boston Scientific drops 17.5% after disappointing earnings, while Eli Lilly's price target rises on GLP-1 sales strength.

Stock Market Today

  • Central Bancompany Shares Show Strong Gains but Valuation Model Signals Undervaluation
    February 5, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Central Bancompany (CBC) stock has surged 142% over five years, reflecting robust multi-year share price performance. Despite recent gains-1.9% over the past week and 2.8% year-to-date-valuation models present a nuanced picture. Our Excess Returns approach, which estimates profits above shareholder required returns, values CBC at US$39.71 versus the current US$24.52 share price, suggesting a 38.2% undervaluation. Meanwhile, CBC's price-to-earnings ratio stands at 15.0x, higher than industry averages, hinting at optimism on growth but also risk perception. The firm's 11.48% Return on Equity exceeds its shareholder cost of equity, supporting intrinsic value estimates. Investors are weighing strong historical gains against fundamental valuation models and evolving market expectations for regional banks.
Cummins stock in focus as it pulls back on electrolyzers and maps 2026 outlook
Previous Story

Cummins stock in focus as it pulls back on electrolyzers and maps 2026 outlook

Micron stock slips again in premarket after 9.6% slide as insiders sell and memory crunch hits phones
Next Story

Micron stock slips again in premarket after 9.6% slide as insiders sell and memory crunch hits phones

Go toTop