Today: 15 March 2026
Wall Street Feels the Heat (and Thrill): Fed Cuts, Tariffs & Mega-Mergers Set NYSE Buzz
15 March 2026
49 mins read

Stock Market Today 15.03.2026


LIVEMarkets rolling coverageStarted: Updated:

Nifty Drops to 10-Month Low Amid Iran War, Fed Meeting, and Rising Oil Prices

March 15, 2026, 3:29 AM EDT. The Nifty index closed at a 10-month low, down 5.3% last week, pressured by the Iran-Israel conflict, a weakening rupee, persistent foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, and fuel supply concerns. The 50-stock benchmark slid 488 points to 23,151.10, with technical analysts forecasting further declines towards 23,000-22,800. Market jitters persist as the Iran war enters its 17th day with no ceasefire in sight. Investors await the U.S. Federal Reserve's policy decision this week amid inflation above the 2% target. Major U.S. indices ended lower Friday, adding to bearish sentiment. Rising crude oil prices, with Brent above $103 per barrel, are fueling concerns about inflation and economic growth. FIIs offloaded equities worth Rs 10,716 crore on Friday, while domestic institutions bought nearly Rs 10,000 crore.

Invitation Homes (INVH) Shares Fall Amid Valuation Debate

March 15, 2026, 3:28 AM EDT. Invitation Homes (INVH) shares have declined 7.4% in the past month and 22.4% over the past year, raising questions about its valuation. The single-family home leasing company reported $2.72 billion in revenue and $587 million in net income. Its current price of $24.99 is below a fair value estimate of $31.71, suggesting potential undervaluation. Analysts hold a consensus target of $36.89 but differ widely, ranging from $32 to $41. Rising regulatory pressure and cost increases pose risks. Despite share price pressure, Invitation Homes could offer upside, depending on future earnings growth and margin trends. Investors are advised to weigh risks and opportunities carefully.

NVIDIA Stock and Sector Movements Lift U.S. Markets Amid Software and Financial Gains

March 15, 2026, 3:14 AM EDT. Major U.S. stock indices advanced Wednesday, led by strong performances in Information Technology and Financials sectors. The XLK tech sector ETF gained 2%, boosted by a 3% rise in Microsoft and 1.2% to 7% rebounds in software stocks like Oracle and Palantir. Software stocks saw heavy trading volume, indicating a potential reversal after prior declines. Financial stocks also surged, with key players in consumer finance, banks, and asset management rising 2% or more. However, Consumer Staples and typically strong sectors in 2026, including Real Estate and Energy, faced declines. The market dynamics suggest a selective recovery within beaten-up tech and financial names, driven by strong buying interest and technical rebounds.

Corn Futures Rise as CFTC Reveals Large Speculator Long Positions

March 15, 2026, 3:13 AM EDT. Corn futures ended Friday's session higher, with May contracts closing up 6 ¾ cents for the week. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) reported a surge of 140,297 speculative long contracts for the week ending March 10, marking the largest increase since May 2019. This pushed the net speculative position to 193,271 contracts. Meanwhile, commercial sellers increased their net short position to 477,414 contracts. Export sales commitments reached 66.513 million metric tons, 32% higher than last year and close to USDA's pace. Brazil's corn crop was slightly lowered to 138.27 million metric tons, according to CONAB. Cash corn prices and other contract months also saw gains amid rising crude oil prices.

Bitcoin Selloff Shrinks Amid Iran Conflict, Outperforms Key Assets

March 15, 2026, 2:59 AM EDT.Bitcoin's initial 8.5% drop at the start of the Iran conflict has since reversed, with the cryptocurrency outperforming gold, the S&P 500, Asian equities, and the Korean market. Only oil and the U.S. dollar, direct beneficiaries of the conflict, have done better. Each conflict escalation sees Bitcoin bottoming at successively higher prices, indicating buyers stepping in earlier. The pattern shows a tightening range near $73,000-$74,000, a level Bitcoin has tested multiple times. Despite ongoing headline-driven sell-offs, Bitcoin is recovering faster and holding stronger with each event, contrasting with the severe February liquidation that erased $800 billion in market value. Market positioning appears leaner, allowing Bitcoin to absorb geopolitical shocks better than most assets amid heightened tensions over Iran's energy infrastructure.

Corn Futures Gain as Export Sales Reach Three-Year High

March 15, 2026, 2:58 AM EDT. Corn futures rose on Friday with nearby contracts gaining between 3 and 5.5 cents. The national average cash corn price climbed 5.5 cents to $3.85 per bushel. According to a Reuters survey, September 1 corn stocks are expected at 1.844 billion bushels, higher than last year and USDA forecasts. USDA's Export Sales report showed export commitments for the marketing year at 14.744 million metric tons (MMT), a 17% increase from a year ago and the highest in three years, though sales pace trails the average. Algeria's recent purchase of 240,000 MT likely came from Argentina or Brazil. Ukraine's 2024/25 corn crop forecast stands at 25.8 MMT, below USDA estimates. December 2024 corn futures traded at $4.18 3/4, up 5 1/2 cents.

Guardian Pharmacy Services Shares Slightly Below $34 Fair Value Amid Mixed Returns

March 15, 2026, 2:57 AM EDT. Guardian Pharmacy Services (GRDN) closed at $32.59, just below its estimated fair value of $34, indicating potential undervaluation. While the stock faced a recent 2.04% drop in one day and a 2.60% decline over 30 days, longer term returns are robust: 7.06% over 90 days and 62.22% over one year. The company reported $1.45 billion in revenue and $49.22 million in net income, supported by a debt-free balance sheet and strong cash conversion over 60%. Its growth strategy includes disciplined mergers and acquisitions and expansion plans to boost revenue and operating leverage. Risks include potential margin pressures from Medicare Part D reimbursement changes and acquisition integration. Investors are encouraged to review fundamentals amid mixed sentiment and consider broader healthcare AI opportunities and resilient dividend stocks.

Wheat Futures Climb on Strong Export Sales and Global Demand

March 15, 2026, 2:44 AM EDT. Wheat futures surged with Chicago Soft Red Winter (SRW) up 14-16 cents and Kansas City Hard Red Winter (HRW) rising 19-20 cents as of midday Friday. Minneapolis spring wheat gained 12-13 cents. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported wheat export commitments at 23.663 million metric tons (MMT), 11% higher year-on-year and nearly at USDA's annual export projection. Shipments are ahead of schedule at 77% of USDA projections. South Korean importers purchased 50,000 metric tons in a recent tender. Meanwhile, French wheat crop conditions remained steady at 84% good or excellent, according to FranceAgriMer. Crude oil prices rebounded, rising $1.19 midday, adding to market momentum. These developments underpin current bullish sentiment in wheat markets ahead of summer planting.

SLB Stock Analysis: Valuation Insights Post-Pullback and ChampionX Deal

March 15, 2026, 2:43 AM EDT. SLB (NYSE:SLB) shares traded near $44.72, marking a 4.6% drop over the last week amid a recent 30-day pullback of over 11%. Despite recent cooling momentum, SLB's one-year shareholder return stands at 12.13%. The stock currently trades at about a 44% discount to intrinsic value and 24% below average analyst targets, prompting evaluation of its fair value of $55.05. Key growth drivers include the ChampionX integration, expected to boost EBITDA margins and earnings per share from 2026 through production optimization, chemicals, and digital tech synergies. Risks persist with global upstream spending and integration hurdles potentially affecting valuations. Investors are encouraged to consider these factors carefully while exploring broader energy sector opportunities.

NRG Energy Shares Fall After Q4 Earnings Miss, Valuation Viewed as Undervalued by Analysts

March 15, 2026, 2:42 AM EDT. NRG Energy (NRG) reported Q4 2025 earnings per share of $1.04, missing analyst estimates of $1.19 and prompting a 4.20% share price drop. Despite a one-month decline of 11.30%, the stock's long-term total shareholder return remains robust at about 4x over three years. The recent equity offering and appointment of a new Chief Growth and Policy Officer signal management's focus on growth opportunities like data centers and virtual power plants. Analysts estimate a fair value of $202.85 per share, suggesting the stock is 24.6% undervalued despite a high price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 41.1x, well above the Electric Utilities industry average of 21.7x. Risks include regulatory challenges to natural gas exposure and integration issues with acquisitions Vivint and LS Power.

DexCom (DXCM) Shares Fairly Valued Amid Recent Price Decline, DCF Analysis Shows

March 15, 2026, 2:41 AM EDT. DexCom's (DXCM) stock closed at $64.24, down 5.7% over seven days and 8.3% over 30 days, with a 9.1% drop over one year. The company specializes in continuous glucose monitoring, a key growth area in healthcare. A discounted cash flow (DCF) model estimates a fair value of $63.52 per share, suggesting the stock is roughly 1.1% overvalued-within a negligible margin. DexCom's price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 29.56, slightly above the Medical Equipment industry average of 26.81, reflecting investor expectations for growth despite recent volatility. The company's valuation score rates 2 out of 6, indicating undervaluation on some metrics but mixed signals overall. As investor sentiment shifts, monitoring these valuation markers will be crucial for assessing risk and growth potential in this healthcare sector stock.

Celestica Shares Surge 6.7% on Analyst Optimism Over AI Infrastructure Exposure and Cash Flows

March 15, 2026, 2:27 AM EDT. Celestica (TSX:CLS) shares rose 6.7% following upbeat analyst reports highlighting the company's strong AI infrastructure exposure, improving cash generation, and raised full-year 2026 revenue guidance to US$17 billion. Analysts see AI and cloud infrastructure as key growth drivers, supporting forecasts of 17.9% annual revenue growth through 2028 and projecting revenue near US$17.4 billion with earnings close to US$992 million. With institutional ownership currently below typical levels, there could be room for increased investment. However, risks remain around hyperscaler capital spending volatility. Market views on Celestica's fair value vary widely, ranging from $158 to $571, reflecting differing expectations on AI demand. Investors advised to assess multiple perspectives before making decisions.

Cogeco Communications (TSX:CCA) Shows Mixed Multi-Year Performance but Appears Undervalued

March 15, 2026, 2:26 AM EDT. Cogeco Communications (TSX:CCA) shares closed at C$70.69, down 0.8% in the past week but up 11.3% over the last year, reflecting mixed investor sentiment. The Canadian telecom company faces competitive and regulatory challenges. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model estimates an intrinsic value of about C$243.81 per share, suggesting the stock is undervalued by roughly 71%. With free cash flow projected to rise from CA$357.7 million to CA$602.4 million by 2030, the valuation indicates significant upside potential. The company scores 4 out of 6 on undervaluation tests, highlighting its possible appeal as a buy despite recent mixed market performance.

Rio2 Stock Falls Post-TSX Graduation Despite Strong Long-Term Returns

March 15, 2026, 2:11 AM EDT. Rio2 (TSX:RIO) reported a US$13.64 million net loss for 2025 but marked a significant milestone by graduating to the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). Despite the TSX upgrade, Rio2's shares declined 16.57% over one month and 13.71% in the past week, signaling fading short-term momentum. However, a substantial 1-year total shareholder return exceeding 250% highlights robust long-term gains. Valuation models suggest Rio2 is undervalued with a fair value estimate of CA$21 per share, contrasting sharply with its recent close near CA$2.77. Bull cases depend on high gold price assumptions and smooth project execution, while current price-to-book ratios indicate market expectations may already price in growth. Investors face key risks such as production delays and cost overruns at the Fenix project.

ASE Technology Stock Upgraded to Buy by Wall Street Zen Amid Mixed Analyst Ratings

March 15, 2026, 1:56 AM EDT. ASE Technology (NYSE:ASX) received a buy rating upgrade from Wall Street Zen, shifting from a previous hold. Other firms show mixed views: Zacks Research downgraded the stock to strong sell, Weiss Ratings maintains a hold stance. The consensus rating remains at hold. ASE's market cap stands at $47.66 billion with a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.04. Most recent earnings showed a missed EPS of $0.11 against $0.20 estimates, but revenue beat expectations at $5.67 billion. Institutional investors like HSBC and Caitong International increased holdings recently. ASE's 1-year share price ranges from $6.94 to $25.28, with a current price near $21.49. Analysts forecast EPS of 0.76 for the fiscal year ahead.

Once Upon A Farm (OFRM) Valuation Post Q4 2025 Profitability and Organic Kids Food Launch

March 15, 2026, 1:37 AM EDT. Once Upon A Farm PBC (OFRM) reported stronger Q4 2025 results showing higher sales and quarterly profitability, alongside new 2026 sales guidance and an expanded organic kids food lineup. Despite this, shares have slid 7.27% in one day and nearly 14% over 30 days, reflecting cooled momentum. OFRM trades at a price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 3.3 times, significantly above peer and industry averages of 0.8x and 0.7x, indicating a premium on future growth rather than current earnings. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model values the stock at $2.65, far below the $18.87 market price, raising concerns about overvaluation amid ongoing net losses of $17.25 million. Investors face a key question: does the current price reflect growth potential or overly optimistic expectations?

KB Home Shares Decline Amid Valuation Debate After Recent Weakness

March 15, 2026, 1:36 AM EDT. KB Home (KBH) shares closed at $52.95, down over 20% in the past month, prompting investors to reassess its valuation. Despite a 57% total shareholder return over three years, recent momentum slowed. The stock's fair value is estimated at $61.42, suggesting undervaluation, supported by improved home build times that may enhance revenue and margins. However, a discounted cash flow (DCF) model values KBH around $36.24, pointing to potential overvaluation. Risks include softer demand, revenue guidance, and an antitrust probe. Investors face a divide between optimism on operational efficiency and caution over future growth prospects amid market pressures.

Endeavour Group Shares Drop 5.1% After Interim Dividend Cut and Weaker Half-Year Profit

March 15, 2026, 1:35 AM EDT. Endeavour Group (ASX:EDV) shares fell 5.1% following its half-year report ending January 4, 2026, revealing a net income decline to A$247 million and basic earnings per share slipping to A$0.138. The company announced a fully franked interim dividend cut to A$0.108 per share from A$0.125, signaling earnings pressure amid rising costs and regulatory challenges. Investors are now wary of margin compression risks and subdued consumer spending impacting Australia's retail drinks and hotel sectors. Analysts remain cautious, with some forecasting earnings as low as A$505.7 million by 2028, below the company's projection of A$542.7 million. The dividend reduction raises concerns about the speed of profit recovery despite ongoing digital and cost-saving initiatives. This cautious tone weighs on market sentiment towards Endeavour Group's near-term outlook and valuation prospects.

Pan American Silver's La Colorada Discoveries and Buyback Plan Impact Investment Case

March 15, 2026, 1:21 AM EDT. Pan American Silver Corp. announced high-grade silver vein discoveries at its La Colorada mine in Mexico, expected to influence the 2026 mineral reserve update. The company also approved a share repurchase program of up to 5% of outstanding shares through 2027, signaling a focus on capital returns amid strong earnings. While the new silver finds enhance resource depth, they do not immediately affect production or costs, keeping the investment case centered on long-term cash flow from a diversified portfolio. Despite a recent share price decline, analysts' fair value estimates vary widely, reflecting uncertainty about the impact of these developments. Investors face risks including metal price volatility, project execution, and elevated valuations following strong multi-year stock performance.

NSE to Launch 10-Gram Gold Futures Contracts from March 16

March 15, 2026, 1:20 AM EDT. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) will introduce 10-gram gold futures contracts in its Commodity Derivatives Segment starting March 16, 2026. The contracts, trading under the symbol "GOLD10G," will feature a trading and delivery unit of 10 grams of 999 purity gold. NSE has set a daily price limit of 6%, with a potential extension to 9% after a cooling-off period. Trading hours will run Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 11:30/11:55 pm US daylight saving time. Contracts will require compulsory delivery, with gold supplied from LBMA-approved or NSE-approved providers. The new offering aims to provide investors and traders with a smaller, standardized gold futures option, enhancing flexibility and liquidity in the commodity derivatives market.

FactSet Advances AI Strategy Amid Share Price Challenges

March 15, 2026, 1:04 AM EDT. FactSet Research Systems (NYSE:FDS) has appointed a Chief AI Officer and CTO to accelerate AI-driven product development, including new compliance tools targeting financial crime risk. Despite these innovations, FactSet's share price remains depressed at $205.65, down 52.2% over the past year. Analysts see potential upside with a consensus price target around $296.71, implying shares trade about 31% below fair value. The company's price-to-earnings ratio stands at 12.7, well below the industry average of 25.9, highlighting undervaluation but raising questions about earnings growth. Investors should monitor client adoption of AI features and the firm's debt management, as these factors will influence market sentiment and stock re-rating over time.

Soybeans Rebound from Early Losses as March Contract Nears Expiry

March 15, 2026, 12:35 AM EDT. Soybeans bounce off early lows on Friday midday as the March contract approaches expiry. The national average cash bean price edged down slightly by 1/4 cent to $11.52 1/4. Soymeal futures rose $1, while soy oil futures remained steady to slightly higher. Crude oil rebounded, increasing $1.19. USDA data shows soybean export commitments at 36.49 million metric tons (MMT), a 19% decline year-over-year and below the average sales pace. Shipments trail at 63% of USDA forecasts. Brazil's soybean crop was revised down slightly to 177.85 MMT by CONAB. Traders await Monday's NOPA data for crush and oil stock updates. Market watchers note ongoing U.S.-China talks ahead of upcoming presidential discussions.

Infinity Natural Resources Stock Shows Significant Undervaluation in DCF Analysis

March 15, 2026, 12:34 AM EDT. Infinity Natural Resources (INR) closed at US$18.16, down 2.2% over seven days but up 23.4% year to date. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis, estimating intrinsic value by projecting future cash flows discounted to present, suggests INR is trading at just 14.7% of its estimated value at $123.70 per share. The model uses a two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity method with projected cash flows reaching $262 million by 2030. Despite the recent rally and 10.2% one-year return lagging peers, the 85.3% undervaluation signals potential investor opportunity. INR carries a mixed valuation score of 3 out of 6, reflecting some market skepticism in balancing undervaluation indicators and other factors.

Baytex Energy's 2025 Loss, CEO Change And Capital Returns Redefine Investment Outlook

March 15, 2026, 12:19 AM EDT. Baytex Energy Corp (TSX:BTE) reported a C$603.78 million net loss for 2025 alongside C$1.48 billion revenue. Despite these results, the company reaffirmed its 2026 production guidance and declared a quarterly C$0.0225 dividend. CEO transition plans announced, with President and COO Chad Lundberg set to take over after May AGM. A C$12.1 million share buyback completed adds to capital return efforts. Investors face a complex outlook balancing operational continuity and financial strain amid volatile oil prices and export uncertainties. Forecasts predict revenue declines to C$3 billion by 2028 with earnings dropping by C$314 million. Fair value estimates range substantially, highlighting risks from tariffs and foreign exchange. The company's future hinges on execution under new leadership and market conditions.

PDD Holdings (PDD) Stock Appears Undervalued Despite Recent Weakness

March 15, 2026, 12:18 AM EDT. PDD Holdings' share price closed at $102.65, exhibiting modest short-term gains but suffering longer-term declines, with a 16.2% drop over the past year. Market watchers eye the stock amid ongoing debates about the positioning of Chinese e-commerce firms in global retail. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis values PDD shares at approximately $349.87, suggesting the stock is undervalued by about 70.7%. Meanwhile, the company's price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 9.83, below the industry average, indicating potentially lower investor expectations or higher perceived risk. Investors should weigh these valuation insights alongside sector competition, regulatory pressures, and shifting consumer demand before making decisions.

Dream Industrial REIT Launches Large Normal Course Issuer Bid Impacting Investment Outlook

March 15, 2026, 12:02 AM EDT. On March 6, 2026, Dream Industrial REIT (TSX:DIR.UN) announced a normal course issuer bid to repurchase up to 28.27 million units, roughly 10% of its outstanding shares, through March 2027. This significant buyback may reduce the REIT's equity base, affecting metrics like earnings per unit and capital allocation. The move complements ongoing monthly distributions of CA$0.05833 per unit (CA$0.70 annualized) amid rising development costs. Investors should monitor the REIT's high net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 8.2, which poses risk if credit tightens. Forecasts project CA$611 million revenue and CA$350 million earnings by 2028, with a fair value estimate around CA$15.10 per unit, suggesting a 19% upside. Market views vary between CA$13.77 and CA$15.46, reflecting diverse expectations amid evolving credit conditions and leasing trends.

Stock Market Today

  • Nifty Drops to 10-Month Low Amid Iran War, Fed Meeting, and Rising Oil Prices
    March 15, 2026, 3:29 AM EDT. The Nifty index closed at a 10-month low, down 5.3% last week, pressured by the Iran-Israel conflict, a weakening rupee, persistent foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, and fuel supply concerns. The 50-stock benchmark slid 488 points to 23,151.10, with technical analysts forecasting further declines towards 23,000-22,800. Market jitters persist as the Iran war enters its 17th day with no ceasefire in sight. Investors await the U.S. Federal Reserve's policy decision this week amid inflation above the 2% target. Major U.S. indices ended lower Friday, adding to bearish sentiment. Rising crude oil prices, with Brent above $103 per barrel, are fueling concerns about inflation and economic growth. FIIs offloaded equities worth Rs 10,716 crore on Friday, while domestic institutions bought nearly Rs 10,000 crore.
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