Stock Market Today 07.01.2026

Sensex, Nifty slip at open on weak global cues

January 7, 2026, 11:49 PM EST. Sensex, Nifty opened lower on Jan 8, 2026, as weak global cues weighed on sentiment. The S&P BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50 slipped in early trade after declines in most major markets overseas. Analysts said weakness abroad and cautious risk sentiment pressured Indian equities. Traders awaited domestic cues, including upcoming earnings and macro data, to set the near-term tone. Volume was subdued as participants timed allocations ahead of key data releases and central-bank signals.

Sensex, Nifty set for negative start as FPIs pull from FMCG, Financial Services; IT inflows; GIFT Nifty signals lower

January 7, 2026, 11:34 PM EST. Foreign portfolio investors dumped ₹16,848 crore across 15 sectors in the second half of December, with FMCG and Financial Services hardest hit. FMCG outflows totalled ₹4,425 crore in the second half after ₹1,419 crore in the first, while total FPI selling in the sector from January to November reached ₹30,942 crore. The IT sector saw inflows. The morning session signals a negative start for GIFT Nifty as Asian shares trade lower.

AI-generated signals outline near-term levels for CIC:CA ETF

January 7, 2026, 11:32 PM EST. Updated AI-generated signals for the CI Canadian Banks Covered Call Income Class ETF (CIC:CA) were issued for January 7, 2026. The notes include two trading plans: a long entry near 15.12 with a target of 15.67 and a stop at 15.04; a short entry near 15.67 with a target of 15.12 and a stop at 15.75. Ratings by term show Near: Neutral, Mid: Neutral, Long: Strong. The report labels CIC:CA as an ETF that uses a covered call income strategy-collecting premium by selling options against holdings. For readers unfamiliar, an ETF is a fund traded on exchanges, and a covered call income strategy aims to generate income while limiting upside. The data include a timestamp and reference an AI-generated signals service update; these signals are not guarantees.

SECOM: ROE near industry average as growth lags as stock climbs

January 7, 2026, 11:22 PM EST. SECOM Co., Ltd. (TSE:9735) has gained about 4.5% in the last three months, as investors weigh fundamentals alongside price moves. The trailing twelve-month ROE stood at 8.4% (Net profit ¥120b; equity ¥1.4t to Sept 2025), roughly in line with the industry average of 8.7%. Over five years, SECOM posted 6.7% net income growth, behind the industry's 11% pace. While ROE is not high, other factors-such as management decisions or a lower payout ratio-could support future growth. The analysis reinforces that earnings growth largely drives valuation, but the market may price in different expectations. Investors should assess whether the projected earnings growth is already reflected in the price.

Constellation Brands (STZ) looks undervalued after 34% annual drop, per DCF analysis

January 7, 2026, 11:21 PM EST. Constellation Brands (STZ) trades at $140.49, down 34.3% over the last year. It rose 1.8% over the past week, while being down 1.1% in 30 days and 0.5% year to date. Sector sentiment on beverages weighs on the stock but is not company-specific. On a 6-point valuation scale, STZ scores 3/6. Approach 1: a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis yields an intrinsic value of $325.27 per share, implying a 56.8% discount to the current price. The model uses a 2-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity framework, with trailing FCF about $1.63 billion and a path to $2.48 billion in 2030. Approach 2: a P/E lens is discussed but the text cuts off. Bottom line: the stock appears undervalued on this framework.

Market Tram Signals Strong Demand for Used Toyotas in South Australia

January 7, 2026, 11:20 PM EST. Market Tram says used Toyota models are in steady demand in South Australia, driven by firm pricing and faster listing turnover than many rivals in Adelaide. Lower listing volumes and persistent buyer activity push prices for reliable nameplates. Popular models-Corolla, Camry, HiLux, Prado, and RAV4-remain sought after for long ownership and predictable running costs. Buyers seek value and cost predictability; Toyota aligns with those priorities, helping sustain demand even as the broader market cools. Market Tram's platform provides nationwide visibility, pricing context, and direct seller-buyer messaging. Listings are free, with easy browsing by location and price. SA demand echoes activity in Sydney and Melbourne, where pricing transparency shapes buyer decisions.

Nifty50 slips as Sensex under 85,000; early trading shows range-bound mood

January 7, 2026, 11:18 PM EST. At 9:17 a.m., the Nifty50 (NSE's 50-share benchmark) traded at 26,119.40, down 21 points, while the BSE Sensex (Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark) was at 84,919.74, down 41. The indices extended losses as investors priced in profit-taking after a run into quarterly updates. Analysts expect a range-bound session in the near term. Global cues were mixed: the S&P 500 (broad US index) closed lower as financials declined, while Nvidia and Alphabet kept the Nasdaq afloat on AI bets. In Asia, markets fell for a second day. Domestic flow showed divergence: foreign institutional investors were net sellers of Rs 1,528 crore, while domestic funds bought Rs 2,889 crore.

Asia markets mixed as traders await US jobs data

January 7, 2026, 11:17 PM EST. Asian equities were mixed on Thursday as traders paused the year's rally while awaiting the US jobs data due later this week. A tepid Wall Street lead helped Asian markets back off highs, with attention centered on the non-farm payrolls (NFP) report that will feed into the Fed's rate path. Geopolitics also loomed: Washington's move against Venezuela and simmering China-Japan tensions weighed on sentiment. Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, Wellington and Jakarta fell; Shanghai, Sydney, Taipei and Manila rose modestly. Seoul extended gains to new records, though Samsung dipped after signaling a Q4 profit near $13.8 billion. China's anti-dumping probe into Japanese semiconductor inputs added to frictions. Oil edged higher after Venezuela's crude commitments, and traders awaited a Friday Supreme Court ruling on Trump tariffs.

NZX midday: Industrial services rise; Vista Group slides as UBS takes substantial stake

January 7, 2026, 11:04 PM EST. Industrial services shares on NZX rose near 2% by midday Thursday, led by Ventia Services Group (NZE:VNT, ASX:VNT) up almost 2%. The technology services sector fell about 1%, with Vista Group International (NZE:VGL, ASX:VGL) down near 2% after UBS Group AG and affiliates became a substantial holder of the company on Monday. A substantial holder is a party with a material stake.

Williams Companies (WMB) valuation check after recent gain and cooling momentum

January 7, 2026, 11:03 PM EST. Williams Companies (WMB) traded near $60.39, up about 1.5% on the day. Over the last 3 months the stock slipped roughly 4.3%, with a year-to-date drop near 0.8% and a 1-year TSR of 10.8%. Momentum looks to have cooled after multi-year gains. A fresh valuation note argues Williams remains undervalued, showing a 31% intrinsic discount and a fair value of $67.70. The analysis cites planned expansions of the Haynesville, Gulf Coast and Transco gas corridors to lift LNG export and data-center demand, underpinning long-term EBITDA. However, risks include natural-gas demand variability and permitting hurdles. The stock trades at a P/E of 31.2x vs. 13.1x for peers, signaling a divergence between price and the narrative.

NATIONALUM.NS hits record on aluminium rally; stock trades near ₹331 ahead of Q3 results

January 7, 2026, 11:02 PM EST. Nalco shares at NATIONALUM.NS touched a fresh record high as the aluminium rally spurred interest in the stock. On January 8, the name hovered around ₹331 after a five-session gain of roughly 14%, with LME aluminium at $3,124/tonne and MCX at ₹317.8/kg boosting sentiment. Fundamentals remain solid: Q2FY26profit up 36.7%, EBITDA margin 45%, ROE about 34%, net margin ~33.9%, and a 2.98% dividend yield. Valuation sits near 10.6x P/E and 3.3x P/B, with negligible debt. Technicals show RSI 86.7, MACD positive, and ADX firm, suggesting momentum but potential pause near the record. Key levels: resistance ₹350.73 and ₹357.60; support ₹306.25, then ₹271.43. Catalysts: LME/MCX moves, rupee, power costs, and Q3 results due Feb 16, 2026.

Samsung profit more than triples on AI-powered memory boom

January 7, 2026, 10:56 PM EST. Samsung Electronics posted preliminary 4Q profit of 20 trillion won, up 208% y/y, on 93 trillion won revenue. Prices for DRAM (dynamic random-access memory) and NAND (flash memory) surged on AI-server demand. Shares rose as much as 2.5% in Seoul, extending a rally this year. Rival SK Hynix rose about 6%. Analysts, including CLSA's Sanjeev Rana, said hyperscalers are paying a premium for memory as supply tightens. ASPs (average selling prices) for DRAM jumped 30% and NAND about 20% from the prior quarter. Some see the strength lasting into 2026-27 amid AI deployments in data centers, humanoids, and autonomous systems. Samsung will publish full 4Q25 results on Jan 29. The stock move underscores a broader memory cycle that investors expect it to stay firm.

Institutional investors lead PNB Housing Finance as stock gains ₹14 billion in market cap

January 7, 2026, 10:55 PM EST. Institutional investors own about 48% of PNB Housing Finance Limited (NSE:PNBHOUSING), placing the stock in a position where large trades move the price. The top 10 shareholders hold roughly 51%, led by Punjab National Bank with about 28%. Following last week's ₹14 billion market-cap gain, the stock has posted a one-year return near 16%. Investors warn that concentration can magnify moves if several large holders transact at once. Hedge funds hold a small stake, while the remainder sits with smaller investors. The ownership mix suggests a balance between big institutions and a broader shareholder base. Analysts' forecasts and earnings trajectory will matter for direction next, even as momentum from last week's gain lingers.

Elis valuation under scrutiny after price strength; fair value €27.53 vs €24.98 stock

January 7, 2026, 10:54 PM EST. Elis (ENXTPA:ELIS) has drawn renewed interest after a month of strength, with returns of about 5.4% and a 29.6% one-year total shareholder return. At €24.98, the stock trades with an estimated intrinsic discount of about 24% and an 11.8% gap to analyst targets, according to the latest model. The narrative sees a fair value near €27.53, suggesting the shares could be undervalued if momentum persists and margins firm. Elis benefits from outsourcing momentum across healthcare, workwear and cleanrooms, underpinning recurring revenue. However, risks include Latin American wage and currency pressures that could compress margins and exposure to hospitality in a softer economy. The P/E 15.6x sits above some European services peers, leaving upside dependent on sentiment and execution.

ONEOK valuation signals upside despite price near $70.72; fair value $88.63

January 7, 2026, 10:53 PM EST. ONEOK (OKE) shares slipped, down 0.2% today, 3.8% in the past week, and 5.6% in the past month. A Reuters assessment shows a mixed valuation picture: 1-year TSR is negative, while 3-year and 5-year returns point to prior momentum. Revenue: US$31.6b; net income: US$3.3b; the stock trades near US$70.72 versus a narrative fair value of US$88.63. The P/E is 13.3x, near the industry average of 13.1x, below peers at 14.8x and well under a derived fair of 19.9x. The case hinges on lower cash taxes through 2028, rising free cash flow, and reduced leverage, enabling disciplined capital allocation. Risks include acquisition synergies and commodity price volatility.

Invesco (IVZ) valuation check after price move as momentum in shareholder returns builds

January 7, 2026, 10:52 PM EST. Invesco IVZ closed at $27.69, marking a modest one-day dip of about 2%. The stock's 90-day return of 15.86% and 1-year total shareholder return of 68.90% underscore improving momentum. The shares sit within roughly 1% of the average analyst price target, prompting a valuation check versus fundamentals. A narrative-based fair value pins Invesco at $27.08, just below the recent close, versus a consensus target of $22.58; bulls see a high near $29, bears as low as $17. The stock trades at 18.4x earnings, trailing the US market average of 25.7x but near a 19.3x fair ratio, implying limited upside from multiple expansion. Risks include fee compression from lower-cost products and possible delays in any QQQ restructuring. Readers are urged to review the full narrative.

Trade Desk Narrative Shifts on AI Catalysts and Target Revisions

January 7, 2026, 10:51 PM EST. The fair value for Trade Desk slid modestly, from about $62.33 to $61.12 a share, reflecting math-driven rebalancing rather than a single data point. The model's discount rate stays near 6.96%, while revenue growth assumptions edge up to about 15.95% on expectations of AI-enabled products like Kokai and ongoing product catalysts amid healthy ad demand and a stable macro backdrop. Analysts frame the move as incremental, not a pivot. Bullish notes point to execution on AI and Kokai adoption, with targets adjusted higher or kept, including UBS at $82 and Truist around $85, and Susquehanna at $85 after a larger cut from $135. Bears cite rich multiples and potential derisking across estimates, with Wolfe cutting to $45. Overall, the tone remains constructive but cautious, with continued emphasis on guidance transparency.

Is AstraZeneca Still Undervalued After a 35% One-Year Rally? (LSE:AZN)

January 7, 2026, 10:50 PM EST. AstraZeneca shares trade at £142.24 after a 35.1% 12-month gain, with 3.1% over 7 days, 4.8% over 30 days, and 4.6% year-to-date. The stock remains a topic for investors assessing fair value against a diversified pharmaceutical portfolio and a pipeline judged by approvals. On Simply Wall St's 6-point valuation, AZN scores 3 of 6, signaling mixed signals. A two-stage free cash flow to equity (FCFE)DCF yields an estimated intrinsic value of US$249.63 per share, implying a 43% discount to current price and suggesting undervaluation by this model. The analysis contrasts P/E ratio with long-horizon cash-flow projections. Investors should weigh execution risks and pipeline progression when considering a position.

Skanska Valuation Check After Share Rally

January 7, 2026, 10:49 PM EST. Skanska (OM:SKA B) has drawn investor attention after strong gains, up 3.5% today, 6.7% in a week and 9.3% in a month. YTD is 4.4% and 1-year TSR reaches 22.2% with dividends, signaling momentum. The stock trades near analysts' targets but sits about 27% below one estimate of intrinsic value. A common view pegs fair value around SEK265, just under the last close of SEK269.2. Analysts forecast revenue growth ~3.8% annually for three years and margins rising from 3.3% to 4.3%. Our DCF implies a fair value of SEK370.7, roughly 27% above the current price, suggesting potential undervaluation on cash flows. Risks include Nordic property weakness and delayed US commercial sales.

Sensex, Nifty set for muted open as US tariff threats weigh on sentiment

January 7, 2026, 10:48 PM EST. Indian benchmarks are set for a muted start on Thursday as risk-off sentiment weighs on Dalal Street. The threat of higher US tariffs on Indian goods, linked to New Delhi's continued purchases of Russian oil, has dampened sentiment even as earnings show uneven progress. Gift Nifty futures at 8:16 a.m. imply the Nifty 50 may open near Wednesday's close of 26,140.75, with the index down about 0.7% over three sessions and the Sensex down about 0.9%. Foreign institutional investors (FII) sold Indian equities worth Rs 1,528 crore on Wednesday; January outflows total about $694 million. Analysts cite near-term technicals: resistance near 85,400-85,500, support around 84,400-84,500, and a base near 84,200. The next moves hinge on trade headlines and fund flows.

ASX Midday Sector Update: Healthcare Stocks Jump, Materials Dip

January 7, 2026, 10:31 PM EST. ASX (Australian Stock Exchange) midday update shows Healthcare stocks up about 2% as investors digest leadership changes at Ansell. The company said Chief Executive Neil Salmon will retire after 13 years; Nathalie Ahlstrom will take over, with a transition from Jan. 26 and a formal start on Feb. 16. The materials sector slipped around 0.4% as gold and silver prices declined. BlueScope Steel rejected an unsolicited takeover proposal from a consortium led by SGH and Steel Dynamics, saying the bid undervalues the company. Traders stayed cautious on deal activity while bullion softness weighed on commodity names. For clarity, a takeover proposal is a bid by another company or group to buy out the target; a consortium is a buyer group.

Tata Elxsi's high P/E flags growth risk as earnings falter

January 7, 2026, 10:18 PM EST. Tata Elxsi trades at a P/E of 54.4x, higher than Indian market peers. The stock has seen earnings decline ~18% last year, erasing three-year EPS growth. Analysts expect ~14% annual earnings growth over the next three years, below the broader market's ~20% pace. With weaker earnings outlook and a lofty multiple, the shares may face downside risk if the P/E multiple reverts toward growth expectations. Investors should weigh the high P/E against the slower earnings growth outlook and consider other risk factors in the firm's balance sheet and industry dynamics.

Indian stocks set for cautious open as Nifty, Sensex face resistance on Jan 8, 2026

January 7, 2026, 10:17 PM EST. Indian indices are seen opening flat to range-bound on Thursday as mixed global cues weigh. Gift Nifty points to a weak start at 26,184, down about 0.16%. On Wednesday, Sensex closed at 84,961.14 and Nifty 50 at 26,140.75, with midcap and smallcap indices modestly higher. Technicals point to immediate resistance for the Sensex near 85,400-85,500 and support around 84,400-84,500; a base near 84,200 could attract buyers if tested. For Nifty 50, the index shaved intraday lows near 26,050, with the 20-day EMA near 26,086 acting as support; a break above 26,200 opens 26,300-26,400, then 26,500 on follow-through. IT and Consumer Durables led gains; Auto and Infrastructure remained under pressure amid geopolitical tensions, tariff concerns, and ongoing foreign outflows.

Has AGNC Investment Run Too Far After Recent Price Strength?

January 7, 2026, 10:16 PM EST. AGNC Investment (AGNC) traded near $11.06 as investors weigh value after a recent price run. The stock rose 3.2% in 7 days and 5.4% in 30 days, with 1-year and 3-year returns of 38.0% and 55.1% (5-year: 38.3%). A six-test valuation scores 4 of 6. In the Excess Returns model, book value is $8.83 rising to $9.31; stable EPS $1.66; cost of equity $0.85. Excess return $0.81 implies intrinsic value about $23.00, suggesting the shares are about 52% undervalued. A second approach, P/E at 17.27x, tops the Mortgage REIT industry average of 12.28x and sits near peers at 17.89x. Market focus centers on rate sensitivity, dividend profile and book value trends shaping sentiment.

Intel stock extends rally on AI chip push as investors await orders and Q4 results

January 7, 2026, 10:02 PM EST. Intel's shares jump to start 2026, up about 15.5% year-to-date after an 80% gain last year. The rally centers on the Core Ultra Series 3, the first compute platform built on the US-based 18A process. Intel says the 18A node is the most advanced US-made semiconductor process, and the Ultra Series 3 could deliver up to 1.9x higher LLM performance with improved power efficiency. Pre-orders began Jan. 6; global availability is slated for Jan. 27. Investors will want evidence of orders when Intel reports the fourth-quarter results on Jan. 22. In Q3, revenue rose 3% to $13.7 billion, though near-term demand clarity remains uncertain and the stock's move may outpace fundamental data.

Pool price weakness hints at valuation gap, DCF shows ~22% discount

January 7, 2026, 9:44 PM EST. Pool trades at $237.01, with a year-to-date and 12-month performance of -25.8%. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model-using a two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity approach-values the stock at about $302.36 per share. That yields roughly a 21.6% discount to the current price, signaling the shares may be undervalued on cash flows. The last twelve months' Free Cash Flow was about $396.6 million; projections extend to $482.0 million in 2028, then rise through 2035. The stock trades at a P/E ratio of 21.53x, above the industry average of 17.70x but below the peer group average of 42.71x. The picture: valuation suggests a potential opportunity, though risk remains to broader earnings trends and market sentiment.

NRG Energy valuation check after recent share-price weakness

January 7, 2026, 9:33 PM EST. NRG Energy (NRG) has drawn investor attention after a stretch of weaker share performance. The stock is down over the past week, month and three months, even as a strong one-year total return propels longer-term momentum. A 6.7% one-day drop and a 9.3% one-month decline frame a broader uptrend: 1-year total shareholder return at 53.2%, with multi-year gains in the hundreds of percent. At $148.91, the shares trade well below a narrative fair value of about $201.58, suggesting potential undervaluation if the model adequately captures the growth drivers. The story cites data centers and electrification tailwinds. Risks include heavier natural gas exposure and integration risks from Vivint and VPP. A DCF view (discounted cash flow) points to undervaluation, though the P/E (price-to-earnings) at 20.8x vs 20.2x industry peers tempers the case.

ASX Most Active Big-Cap Stocks on Thursday; ARU Leads Turnover

January 7, 2026, 9:32 PM EST. MT Newswires reports the five most actively traded big-cap stocks (large-cap shares) on the Australian Securities Exchange on Thursday. ARU led turnover with 32.4 million shares; following were RWC with 14.4 million, DRO with 10.1 million, PLS with 8.2 million, and NSR with 8.1 million.

ASX Biggest Losers: DroneShield, Ansell Lead Thursday Declines

January 7, 2026, 9:31 PM EST. ASX-listed shares fell on Thursday, with the biggest losses led by DroneShield (ASX:DRO) and Ansell (ASX:ANN), each down about 6% to AU$3.65 and AU$33.44. Capricorn Metals (ASX:CMM) and James Hardie Industries (ASX:JHX) slipped 4% to AU$14.25 and AU$30.71. South Gold 2 (ASX:SX2) lost 3% to AU$10.11, while SGH (ASX:SGH) also fell 3% to AU$47.37. Ramelius Resources (ASX:RMS) shed 3% to AU$4.13; Silex Systems (ASX:SLX) fell 4% to AU$6.83. Iluka Resources (ASX:ILU) and DMedical (ASX:4DX) were about 3% lower at AU$6.374 and AU$4.57.

Zip Co leads ASX gains as ten stocks climb, led by Mesoblast and Predictive Discovery

January 7, 2026, 9:30 PM EST. Australian shares rose on Thursday, led by Zip Co and Mesoblast, as the ASX's top gainers pushed higher on light turnover. Data from MT Newswires showed a parade of gains across the leaderboard. The ten biggest gainers: Zip Co (ASX:ZIP) +7% to AU$3.41; Mesoblast (ASX:MSB) +7% to AU$2.92; Predictive Discovery (ASX:PDI) +5% to AU$0.80; Austal (ASX:ASB) +4% to AU$7.70; Telix Pharmaceuticals (ASX:TLX) +4% to AU$11.47; Codan (ASX:CDA) +4% to AU$31.36; Neuren Pharmaceuticals (ASX:NEU) +3% to AU$18.77; Life360 (ASX:360) +3% to AU$32.38; Deterra Royalties (ASX:DRR) +3% to AU$4.31; Liontown Resources (ASX:LTR) +2% to AU$2.08.

Kody Technolab up 50% in three months; ROE at 11%

January 7, 2026, 9:19 PM EST. Kody Technolab Ltd.'s stock has climbed about 50% over the past three months. The move follows a trailing ROE of 11% for the twelve months to September 2025, calculated from ₹119 million of net profit against ₹1.1 billion of shareholders' equity. ROE, or return on equity, measures profit earned per unit of shareholder capital. Despite the gain, the company's ROE trails the industry average of 15%. Yet the company posted 50% net income growth over five years, helped by earnings retention and management efficiency. When compared with the broader industry growth of 26%, the trajectory looks favorable. Investors should decide whether expected earnings growth is already baked into the price, and consider how retained earnings and valuation metrics fit into the thesis.

HubSpot valuation signals upside as fair value ($579.55) vs current price ($398.22)

January 7, 2026, 9:18 PM EST. HubSpot (HUBS) closed at $398.22 as investors reassess its growth trajectory. Over 30 days the stock gained 3.38%, but it has fallen 12.09% in 90 days and shows a 1-year total return of 43.87% in the red. A valuation framework gives a value score of 5 and a fair value of $579.55, suggesting the shares are undervalued versus the current price. Analysts note HubSpot has pivoted toward AI-driven search and new lead sources (YouTube, social, newsletters, LLM citations) to sustain top-line growth, but risks include continued disruption of traditional SEO and softer SMB budgets. Investors are advised to weigh how the growth, profitability, and future earnings multiple factor into the upside.

Hubbell trades near targets as valuation signals diverge

January 7, 2026, 9:17 PM EST.Hubbell (HUBB) closed at 468.20, with momentum building in the 7-day and 90-day windows and a positive 1-year return. The stock sits near analyst targets while some models assign an intrinsic premium. A narrative fair value of about 478.67 implies only a modest upside, whereas our SWS DCF fair value sits around 431.47, indicating the price sits above that assessment. Analysts expect revenue growth of about 6.3% annually over the next three years, a path that underpins the fair value debate around margins and growth. Risks include cost inflation, tariffs, and weaker grid automation demand. Read the full narrative to see which revenue, margin, and valuation assumptions underpin the different estimates, and how you weigh them in your framework.

MVK Agro Food Product stock up 24% in 3 months as ROE lags peers

January 7, 2026, 9:16 PM EST. MVK Agro Food Product Ltd (NSE: MVKAGRO) has risen about 24% over the past three months. A closer look at its finances shows a trailing ROE of 7.4% for the year to September 2025, below the industry average of about 11%. The company posted net income of ₹101 million on ₹1.4 billion of shareholders' equity. Over five years, earnings growth rose 29%, outpacing the industry's 20% growth. Some analysts caution that the ROE gap may reflect capital structure or reinvestment choices rather than core profitability. They note higher earnings retention or efficient management could support future returns. Investors price in earnings growth, but sustained ROE underperformance means valuation should hinge on how profits are deployed going forward.

VXC:CA AI-generated signals point to near-term buy near 68.69; no shorts

January 7, 2026, 9:15 PM EST. On January 7, 2026 at 08:37 PM ET, AI-generated signals for VXC:CA show a near-term buy at 68.69 with a stop loss at 68.35. No short plan is offered. The AI ratings by term show Near: Strong, Mid: Weak, Long: Strong. The update notes the data timestamp and points readers to the latest AI-generated signals for VXC:CA. No target price is provided. Traders should monitor price action and risk controls as markets move.

Markets settle mixed as data batch weighs on Dow; Alphabet tops Apple in market cap

January 7, 2026, 9:00 PM EST. The Dow ended down 466 points, -0.94%, sliding to below 49,000 after a fresh closing high the previous session. The S&P 500 fell 0.34% while the Nasdaq rose 0.16%. The Russell 2000 dropped 0.30%. Alphabet GOOGL rose after a BNP Paribas note suggesting Google could be the top AI platform, briefly lifting shares as it surpassed Apple in market cap but still trails NVIDIA by hundreds of billions. The JOLTS November gauge showed 7.15 million openings vs 7.6 million expected. Quit rate rose to 2% from 1.9% in October. ISM Services rose to 54.4% while ISM Manufacturing weakened to 47.9%. October Factory Orders fell 1.3%. Expect continued attention to weekly jobless claims, trade deficit, productivity, and a December Employment Report with about 73,000 jobs expected.

Boston Scientific valuation flags overvaluation after multi-year rally, per DCF and valuation checks

January 7, 2026, 8:59 PM EST. Boston Scientific (BSX) closed at $98.65, with 7-day gains of 3.5% and 30-day gains of 5.1%. The stock has rallied 173.6% over five years. The piece weighs whether the price aligns with long-term growth, noting the medical-device portfolio, launches, regulatory approvals and competition in key therapeutic areas. Our valuation checks score 1 of 6, signaling more work to resolve the value case. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model pegs an intrinsic value around $68.53 per share, versus the market price, implying the stock is about 43.9% above fair value and labeled OVERVALUED. The analysis cites a latest twelve-month free cash flow of roughly $3.77 billion and outlines how two-stage projections drive the valuation.

Australia shares edge up as banks, healthcare gains overshadow mining losses

January 7, 2026, 8:49 PM EST. Australian shares edged higher as banks and healthcare stocks led gains, offsetting losses in mining names. Investors weighed domestic earnings prospects against global rate expectations, keeping the move modest. The market showed breadth unevenly, with financials lifting the index while miners pulled back. The tone remained cautious as traders listened for central-bank signals and macro cues ahead of upcoming earnings rounds.

Synopsys valuation signals overvaluation after multi-year gains (SNPS)

January 7, 2026, 8:48 PM EST. At roughly US$519.70, Synopsys trades above what its latest DCF suggests is fair value. The stock has surged 10.6% last week and remains up sharply over multi-year horizons. Our framework scores it 0/6 on valuation checks, signaling no undervaluation. A two-stage DCF uses a roughly $1.33 billion annual free cash flow (FCF) for the trailing year; forecasts push FCF to $4.87 billion in 2030, with interim reads of $1.91b in 2026 and $3.17b in 2028. Discounting these back yields an intrinsic value of about $464.91 per share. The result is a roughly 11.8% premium to the current price, i.e., the shares look overvalued by this model. Investors may also weigh the role of P/E multiple in a growth/ risk context.

Kimco Realty valuation signals upside after mixed trading; fair value near $24.09 vs $20.31

January 7, 2026, 8:47 PM EST. Kimco Realty (KIM) has shown mixed trading: a 1-day slide, a modest weekly gain, and a slightly positive month amid weaker three- and twelve-month returns. The 30-day return of 2.68% trails the 90-day gain of 4.33% and a negative 1-year total shareholder return of 3.35%, suggesting momentum has cooled after earlier highs. Longer horizons look sturdier: 3-year and 5-year total shareholder returns of 11.69% and 58.07% point to a more constructive income-led story. The stock trades near US$20.31, with an indicated intrinsic discount of about 34% to a fair value of US$24.09, implying upside if earnings and margins hold. Risks include e-commerce pressure on grocery-anchored tenants and higher rates. The full narrative explains the assumptions behind the valuation gap and how it compares to today's price.

Occidental Petroleum undervalued after 1-year price decline, per DCF model

January 7, 2026, 8:46 PM EST. Occidental Petroleum Corp. (OXY) closed at $40.99, with a 7-day decline of 0.3%, a 30-day fall of 0.9%, year-to-date down 3.3% and a 1-year drop of 18.2% (5-year return 94.8%). The stock carries a valuation score of 2/6. The analysis uses a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model, applying a two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity approach. The latest twelve-month free cash flow is about $4.40 billion; projected to $5.64 billion by 2035, producing an estimated intrinsic value of $110.83 per share. At $40.99, the model implies roughly a 63% discount to fair value, signaling the stock is undervalued. The report also touches on the P/E ratio and notes normal levels depend on growth and risk.

Berkshire Hathaway trades near $745,000; DCF fair value indicates upside

January 7, 2026, 8:45 PM EST. BRK.A now trades around $745,000, with a roughly 1-year return of 9.9% and a flat 90-day path. Revenue is $372.1 billion and net income $67.5 billion, reflecting a diversified mix across insurance, rail, utilities, manufacturing and services. The stock carries a value score of 4, an intrinsic discount of 36.7%, and a P/E of 15.9x-below the 18.6x fair ratio but above the sector average of 14.1x and the peer average of 27.1x. A DCF fair value lands at about $1,177,732 per share, implying the shares are undervalued versus that model. The question remains whether the earnings multiple or the cash-flow view offers a more informative signal for capital allocation.

Recursion Pharmaceuticals climbs 6.8% ahead of JPMorgan and Needham conferences

January 7, 2026, 8:44 PM EST. Recursion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (RXRX) jumped 6.8% to close at $4.86 on Wednesday, extending a four-day rally as investors await updates from two upcoming conferences. CEO Najat Khan will present at the 44th Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco on Jan. 13 and at the 28th Annual Needham Growth Conference on Jan. 16. Investors are eyeing 2025 earnings guidance, pipeline updates, and the 2026 outlook. JPMorgan upgraded RXRX to overweight from neutral, lifting its target to $11 from $10 after solid results from the REC-4881 trial for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, which JPMorgan says could reach about $1 billion in U.S. sales.

BKCL: AI-driven signals shape trading plan for Canadian banks ETF BKCL:CA

January 7, 2026, 8:43 PM EST. Global X's BKCL:CA, the Global X Enhanced Equal Weight Canadian Banks Covered Call ETF, shows two trading plans around the 22-dollar level. Long: buy near 22.11 with a target of 23.05 and a 22.00 stop. Short: near 23.05, target 22.11, stop 23.17. The data are AI-generated signals, rated Near Neutral, Mid Neutral, and Long Strong for Near, Mid, and Long horizons. Dated January 7, 2026, 08:21 PM ET (Eastern Time). AI signals are algorithm-driven guidance, not a guarantee; verify with current data. The note links readers to updated BKCL:CA signals.

Summit Therapeutics valuation under the microscope after share strength; P/B at 74.8x, DCF fair value $217.67

January 7, 2026, 8:37 PM EST. Summit Therapeutics (SMMT) rose 1.9% on the day and 8.7% over the week, though longer-term returns remain uneven: 30 days up 2.07%, 90 days down 16.07%, and a three-year total shareholder return that highlights patient holders' gains despite near-term momentum cooling. On a P/B basis, the stock trades at 74.8x price against a US$19.01 share price, far above the industry average of 2.7x and a peer average of 11.2x, signaling the market expects a stronger future than the balance sheet implies. A DCF model puts fair value at US$217.67 versus last close of US$19.01, suggesting potential discount based on cash flow scenarios. The narrative flags OVERVALUEDP/B and UNDERVALUEDDCF; risk remains, including ongoing net losses of US$921.617 and potential ivonescimab trial failures.

Nanofilm Technologies International: ROE Weak as Shares Fall 24% in 3 Months

January 7, 2026, 8:35 PM EST. Nanofilm Technologies International (SGX:MZH) shares have fallen 24% in the past three months. The company's trailing twelve months to June 2025 show an ROE (return on equity) of 3.1% – a measure of profit per unit of shareholders' equity. With S$13m net profit on S$412m equity, returns are modest. The result trails the industry average of 7.6% and aligns with a five-year net income decline of 38%. A high payout ratio and competitive pressure are cited as headwinds. Relative to the broader industry, earnings have shrunk about 15% in the same period, suggesting limited growth prospects unless profitability improves. Investors should weigh the stock's recent weakness against questions about sustainable earnings growth and capital returns under the SGX listing.

Soybeans post double-digit rally as front-month leads; export-sales outlook in focus

January 7, 2026, 8:34 PM EST. Soybeans posted a double-digit rally on Wednesday as front-month contracts closed 10 to 11 cents higher. The cmdtyView national cash bean price rose 11.5 cents to $9.9475 per bushel. Soymeal futures jumped $3.70 to $6.80 higher, while soy oil edged lower by 8 to 18 points. Overnight deliveries totaled 88 against January soybeans and 78 for bean oil. The USDA returns to a normal Export Sales release schedule, with analysts penciling 2025/26 soy exports at 0.75-1.3 million metric tons and 2026/27 at 0-300,000 MT; meal bookings seen at 100,000-350,000 MT and oil at 0-30,000 MT. Crop data due Monday will show 2025 soybean yield around 52.7 bushels per acre and production near 4.23 billion bushels per Bloomberg.

Corn futures rise on export sale, ethanol data buoy market

January 7, 2026, 8:33 PM EST. U.S. corn futures finished higher on Wednesday as traders closed out the month with a bounce. The nearby cash price rose to about $4.42 1/2 per bushel. May 25 corn settled at $4.67 1/4, Jul 25 at $4.75 1/2, and Dec 25 at $4.46 1/4. A private export sale of 120,000 MT to an unknown destination for 2024/25 supported the tone. The EIA noted ethanol production up 7,000 bpd to 1.04 million, with stocks down 92,000 barrels to 25.89 million and refiners inputs down 13,000 to 908,000; exports rose 66,000 to 141,000. Traders expect March corn used in ethanol to fall 2.6% year over year to 459.9 million bushels. Thursday's export sales data are seen at 0.7-1.5 MMT old crop and 0-200,000 MT new crop.

Lean hog futures finish mixed as August leads; weekly slaughter climbs

January 7, 2026, 8:32 PM EST. Lean hog futures were modestly higher in the near-term August contract on Wednesday, while other contracts fell 65-82 cents. The USDA's national base hog price rose to $113.77 per cwt, up 25 cents, and the CME Lean Hog Index slipped 43 cents to $109.56 as of Aug. 4. The FOB plant pork cutout, a value for pork carcasses at processing plants, fell $2.90 to $115.22 per cwt, with the butt and rib primals the only cutouts reported higher. Estimated hog slaughter for Wednesday was 479,000 head; for the week to date totals reached 1.386 million, up 6,000 week-over-week and up 18,409 from the same week last year.

Cotton Falls Into Wednesday Close as Futures Retreat; Oil and Dollar Mixed

January 7, 2026, 8:31 PM EST. Cotton futures pulled back from morning gains, with most contracts up 3 to 5 points at midday. Crude oil futures slipped 76 cents to $56.40 and the dollar index rose to 98.335. The Seam online auction sold 41,576 bales at 61.13 cents per pound. The Cotlook A Index rose 65 points to 74.70 cents. ICE-certified cotton stocks were steady at 11,510 bales. The Adjusted World Price was updated to 50.76 cents per pound, up 74 points from the prior week. The report underlines ongoing volatility in soft commodities as energy prices and currency moves influence demand signals.

Live cattle futures slip; cash trade firm as boxed beef climbs

January 7, 2026, 8:30 PM EST.Live cattle futures fell Wednesday, contracts down 70 cents to about $1.15. Feeder cattle futures closed 55 cents lower at roughly $1.25. Cash trade opened the week with South bids reported at $218-220 per cwt, steady to $2 higher than last week. Central Stockyards Fed Cattle Exchange sold 675 head of 1,350 offered at $219-221. CME Feeder Cattle Index slipped 37 cents to $293.41. Boxed beef values advanced, with the Choice up $1.48 at $346.15 and Select rising $1.03 to $334.00 per cwt; the Chc/Sel spread narrowed to $12.15. Federally inspected cattle slaughter was estimated at 119,000 head, with week-to-date total 349,000, up 4,000 from last week but down 14,028 from a year ago.

Wheat futures rally as export data and winter acreage eyed

January 7, 2026, 8:29 PM EST.Wheat futures rallied on Wednesday as demand signals and weather expectations supported prices. All three exchanges closed higher, with CBOT SRW and KC HRW posting front-month gains and MPLS spring up modestly. Export-sales data due Thursday scale expectations for 2025/26 between 200,000 and 500,000 MT, with 2026/27 bookings seen at 0-100,000 MT. The USDA winter-wheat seedings report due Monday is expected to show total acreage near 32.4 million acres, with HRW around 23 million, SRW about 5.9 million, and white wheat roughly 3.5 million. China's vice premier said winter-wheat area remains steady despite weak planting in some regions.

Dynatrace Gains as Market Dips; DT +0.46%

January 7, 2026, 8:27 PM EST. Dynatrace (DT) closed at $54.35, up 0.46%, as the broader market slipped. The stock outpaced the S&P 500, which tumbled 0.43%, while the Dow eased 0.07% and the Nasdaq fell 0.90%. Over the past month, DT has fallen about 4.01%, lagging the Computer and Technology sector's 2.86% gain and the S&P 500's 1.98% drop in that stretch. Investors await the upcoming earnings release; EPS (earnings per share) is expected at $0.33 with revenue of $426.5 million, up about 16.8% year over year. For the full year, consensus calls for about $1.32 per share on roughly $1.67 billion in revenue. DT carries a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold), with a Forward P/E near 41 and a PEG of 4.07, above its industry norms.

Crocs (CROX) dips more than market ahead of earnings; valuation attractive

January 7, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. Crocs (CROX) closed at $97.49, down 5.95%, underperforming the S&P 500 and Dow, while the Nasdaq fell 1.3%. The stock has slid about 11.6% in the last month as the Consumer Discretionary sector rose. Investors await the upcoming earnings report with EPS of $4.06 and revenue of $1.14 billion projected. For the full year, analysts expect EPS of $12.90 on revenue of $4.14 billion. On valuation, the Forward P/E is 8.04 versus an industry average of 14.32, and the stock carries a PEG of 2.6. The Textile – Apparel group sits near the bottom of the Zacks Industry Rank at 205. Crocs holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) ahead of results.

KLA's KLAC slips more than market ahead of quarterly results

January 7, 2026, 8:25 PM EST.KLAC closed at $700, down 0.79% on the session, underperforming the S&P 500 (-0.33%), the Dow (-0.37%) and the Nasdaq (-0.53%). Over the past month the stock has fallen 4.47%, worse than the Computer and Technology sector's 7.14% drop and the S&P 500's 4.03% decline. Investors await the quarterly report, with consensus calling for EPS of $8.07 and revenue of $3.01 billion, up 53.42% and 27.4% year over year, respectively. For the full year, the Zacks consensus points to EPS of $31.59 and revenue of $11.91 billion, up 33.07% and 21.35%. No change in the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate over the past month; the Zacks Rank is #3 (Hold). Forward P/E is 22.33 vs 19.29; the PEG is 1.43. The Electronics – Miscellaneous Products industry ranks 153 in Zacks' Industry Rank.

Doximity (DOCS) Rises as Markets Slip; Earnings in Focus, Valuation Appears Attractive

January 7, 2026, 8:24 PM EST. Doximity closed at $46.49, up 1.75% as the S&P 500 fell 0.34%, the Dow dropped 0.94%, and the Nasdaq rose 0.16%. In the past month the stock is up 1.24%, with the Medical sector up 0.82% and the S&P 500 up 1.19%. For the next quarter, consensus calls for EPS of $0.44, down 2.22% YoY, and revenue of $181.03 million, up 7.37%. For the year, estimates are EPS$1.56 and revenue$645.29 million, up 9.86% and 13.13%. Doximity has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold); EPS estimates rose 0.78% in 30 days. Forward P/E is 29.2, vs. industry 30.01; PEG is 1.54 (industry 2.25). Zacks Industry Rank is 162, in the bottom 34% of more than 250 groups.

Waste Management slips; earnings preview and Zacks Rank in focus

January 7, 2026, 8:21 PM EST. Waste Management (WM) closed at $215.97, down 1.42% on the session, lagging the S&P 500's 0.34% decline; the Dow fell 0.94% and the Nasdaq rose 0.16%. The stock gained 4.67% over the last month, outpacing the Business Services sector's 2.46% gain and the S&P 500's 1.19%. WM is set to report earnings on January 28, 2026. EPS (earnings per share) is expected at $1.95, up 14.71% year over year, with revenue seen at $6.38 billion, up 8.26%. For the year, the Zacks Consensus calls for EPS of $7.51 and revenue of $25.27 billion. The forward P/E (price/earnings) is 26.43 and the PEG (price/earnings-to-growth) is 2.45. The Waste Removal Services industry ranks 190 of 250 in Zacks' grouping within Business Services; the stock carries a #3 (Hold) rating.

Gillette India: High ROE and solid earnings growth may offset recent stock weakness

January 7, 2026, 8:18 PM EST. Gillette India's stock has fallen about 15% in the last three months, yet its fundamentals show promise. ROE (return on equity) stands at about 49% on trailing twelve months to September 2025, indicating strong profit generation from shareholders' funds. The industry average ROE is around 15%, underscoring the gap with peers. Net income has grown about 16% over the past five years, broadly in line with the sector. The company's payout ratio sits near 78% over three years, leaving roughly 22% to reinvest in growth. Investors should weigh whether earnings growth and high returns are priced in, given the run of price weakness. If returns are sustainable and reinvestment opportunities exist, the headroom for future appreciation may depend on growth momentum and capital allocation.

Cemindia Projects (NSE:CEMPRO) earnings growth signals improving profitability

January 7, 2026, 8:17 PM EST.Cemindia Projects (NSE:CEMPRO) shows profitability improving alongside rising revenue. Over the past year, its earnings per share (EPS) climbed from ₹19.80 to ₹25.93, about a 31% gain, while EBIT margins stayed roughly flat. Revenue rose 9.2% to ₹94 billion, underscoring top-line growth. Insiders hold about ₹2.3 billion in Cemindia shares, roughly 1.8% of the company, aligning management incentives with shareholders. The piece notes that the three-year EPS growth rate isn't necessarily predictive of future results and emphasizes profitability as a core metric. It references an interactive chart and future EPS estimates, while cautioning that growth quality matters alongside valuation.

Goldman Sachs stock looks overvalued by about 70% under Excess Returns model

January 7, 2026, 8:16 PM EST. Goldman Sachs Group traded at US$941.02, up 7.1% last week and 8.6% in the past month. Over the last year the stock rose 65.6%, with 3- and 5-year gains of 178.4% and 249.8%. In valuation checks, the stock scores 3 of 6. The Excess Returns model uses a Book Value of US$348.02, a Stable EPS of US$64.28, and a Cost of Equity of US$50.54, producing an Excess Return of US$13.74 and an intrinsic value of about US$553.03 per share. At the current price, the stock appears overvalued by roughly 70.2% under this method. The report also references a DCF view as of Jan 2026 and notes P/E as a quick gauge tied to growth and risk.

Comfort Systems USA (FIX) valuation flags potential undervaluation after 5-year rally

January 7, 2026, 8:15 PM EST. Comfort Systems USA trades at $1,035.12, after a 19x five-year gain. Over the last 12 months the stock surged about 130.7%, while in the last week it rose 10.9% and in 30 days 4.6%. A DCF-based intrinsic value of about $1,474.15 per share implies roughly 29.8% undervaluation versus the current price. The latest twelve-month free cash flow sits near $798.7 million; projected FCF reaches about $4,010.9 million in 2035 under the model. The stock trades at a P/E of 43.49x, above construction peers' 32.48x but below a 63.59x peer average. The narrative: capital-goods demand supports attention; the valuation shows a mix of potential undervaluation and balanced metrics.

KBR (NYSE:KBR) Valuation Under Scrutiny After US Government Wins

January 7, 2026, 8:13 PM EST. KBR rose into focus after two large U.S. government awards, including a seat on the Missile Defense Agency's SHIELD program with a $151 billion ceiling and a $350 million USGS technical services contract. The stock has traded at $42.25, with a recent 7-day return of 5.1% but a 1-year total shareholder return down 25.5%. Analysts' fair value narrative sits above the spot price, with a consensus target around $60.71 and a fair value near $54.78; bulls see up to $67, bears around $53. If government deals persist, the question becomes whether this is a temporary discount or a reflection of a richer future contract pipeline. Investors may also scan aerospace and defense peers for ideas.

Howmet (HWM) slips vs market; earnings, valuation in focus

January 7, 2026, 8:11 PM EST. Howmet Aerospace Corp (HWM) closed at $210.90, down 1.77% as the session ended, underperforming the S&P 500's 0.34% drop while the Dow fell 0.94% and the Nasdaq rose 0.16%. Over the past month, HWM shares gained 12.19%; the Aerospace sector rose 9.73% and the S&P 500 advanced 1.19%. Ahead of earnings, the market eyes an EPS (earnings per share) of $0.96, up about 29.73% year over year, and revenue of $2.12 billion, up 12.22% from a year ago. For the full year, Zacks Consensus calls for earnings per share of $3.69 and revenue of $8.21 billion. The stock carries a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold) and trades at a Forward P/E of 48.64 versus a sector average of 22.82; the PEG ratio is 2.05. The Aerospace-Defense industry is ranked 106th, about the top 44% of the 250+ groups.

TXO Partners Falls Steeply Ahead of Earnings; Hold Rating

January 7, 2026, 8:09 PM EST. TXO Partners LP closed at $10.15, down 2.78%, underperforming the S&P 500's 0.34% drop as the Dow fell 0.94% and the Nasdaq rose 0.16%. The stock has slid 13.36% in the last month, worse than the Oils-Energy sector (-1.8%) and the S&P 500 (+1.19%). With earnings due, TXO is projected to post EPS of $0.09 for the coming quarter, down 65.38% year over year, with revenue around $111.72 million, up 25.06%. For the full year, the Zacks consensus points to EPS of $0.07 on revenue $386.8 million, changes of -89.23% and flat growth. The stock carries a Forward P/E of 25.16, above the industry average 11.43. TXO holds a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).

Teradyne slides ahead of earnings, trading at a premium to peers

January 7, 2026, 8:08 PM EST. Teradyne (TER) closed at $222.48, down 2.78%, trailing the S&P 500's 0.34% loss as the Dow fell 0.94% and the Nasdaq rose 0.16%. The stock had climbed 14.44% earlier, outpacing the Computer and Technology sector's 1% decline. Investors await the company's upcoming earnings report. Wall Street expects EPS of $1.36, up 43.16% year over year, and revenue of $968.79 million, up 28.68%. For the full year, consensus calls for EPS of $3.51 and revenue of $3.05 billion, around 9% higher in earnings and flat in revenue. The stock carries a forward P/E of 45.06 and a PEG of 1.65. The industry group – Electronics – Miscellaneous Products in Computer & Technology – ranks 86 in Zacks, in the top 36% of more than 250 groups; revisions to estimates remain a focus for near-term prices.

Intel climbs on Panther Lake AI PC chips and 18A roadmap at CES

January 7, 2026, 8:05 PM EST. Intel shares closed at $42.63, up about 6.5%, after unveiling the Panther Lake AI PC chips and its 18A manufacturing roadmap (Intel's next-generation process node) at the CES (Consumer Electronics Show). Volume reached 164 million, about 8% above the three-month average of 89 million. Investors weigh whether the AI PC revival can lift demand in data center and client PC markets. The S&P 500 fell 0.34% to 6,921, while the Nasdaq Composite rose 0.16% to 23,584. AMD slid about 2%; Nvidia gained roughly 1%. An analyst upgraded Intel to a buy with a $50 target, implying ~17% upside from today's close if the thesis holds. Traders will monitor the manufacturing transition to the new node and how Panther Lake translates into revenue.

Asia-Pacific markets set for lower open as Trump rattles defense firms and oil prices slide

January 7, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Asia-Pacific markets opened mixed as U.S. President Trump rattles defense firms and oil prices slip on potential supply boosts. Tokyo's Nikkei opened about 0.5% lower; Hong Kong Hang Seng futures slid; Australia's ASX 200 edged up 0.2% after BlueScope Steel fell on takeover rejection. South Korea's Kospi rose 0.1% while Kosdaq gained. Brent crude slipped about 0.5% to $60.39 a barrel and WTI rose to $56.33. U.S. equity futures were little changed after Wall Street ended lower; the S&P 500 and Dow fell roughly 0.3% and 0.9%, while the Nasdaq rose about 0.2% on a 2.4% jump in Alphabet, which briefly surpassed Apple in market cap. Markets track geopolitical cues and supply dynamics as Asia heads into the session.

Dell Technologies stock seen 45.9% undervalued by DCF as shares hover around $120

January 7, 2026, 8:03 PM EST. Dell Technologies closed at $120.07. The stock posted a 3-year return of 213.5% and a 5-year gain of 263.5%, though it declined 14.5% over the last 30 days and is down 6% year-to-date. Dell carries a valuation score of 6/6. A two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity (FCFE) discount model yields an intrinsic value of about $222.02 per share, implying the shares are about 45.9% undervalued. Latest twelve-month FCFE is $4.19 billion; projections show FCFE rising to $9.84 billion in 2030. Based on a P/E of 15.27x, the stock trades below the Tech industry average. The piece contrasts how different valuation methods frame the price and what that means for long-term investors.

Anant Raj Ltd NSE:ANANTRAJ P/E Reflects Strong Earnings Forecast

January 7, 2026, 8:02 PM EST. Anant Raj Limited trades at a lofty P/E of 43.2x, well above about half of Indian peers. The premium appears to reflect an optimistic earnings outlook. The company posted a 38% year-over-year earnings gain and a cumulative EPS rise of 358% over three years, supporting the valuation. Three analysts foresee roughly 30% annual earnings growth over the next three years, well ahead of the market's ~20% pace. That forecast explains why investors are willing to pay a premium, provided the growth materializes. Still, the high P/E implies exposure to any earnings deterioration. Risks lurk in the balance sheet and execution. Investors may compare with peers offering reasonable P/E multiples and robust earnings growth, framed by a free balance-sheet check.

NITCO shares up 245% over five years despite latest pullback

January 7, 2026, 8:01 PM EST. NITCO Limited has delivered a 245% total return to shareholders over five years, even as the stock slid 17% in the latest quarter and 30% over the last year. The long-run story remains clear: while revenue growth has averaged only about 0.4% annually in the past five years, the share price has risen about 28% per year over the same period, underscoring a disconnect between fundamentals and price. The company hasn't turned a profit in the last twelve months, prompting a focus on revenue trends and gross margins to gauge sustainability. Insiders have been buying shares in the past year, a positive signal, but investors should scrutinize the underlying fundamentals before chasing the pullback as an opportunity.

Globe Enterprises (India) stock jump justified amid earnings slide; P/E trails peers

January 7, 2026, 8:00 PM EST. Globe Enterprises (India) Limited (NSE:GLOBE) has gained about 29% over the past month as momentum returns to the stock. Shares remain down about 42% in the last 12 months. The stock trades around 15x trailing earnings, below many Indian peers where P/E multiples run above 26x. Yet the company has posted an earnings slide, with profits falling 51% in the latest year and EPS down 71% over three years. The market is expected to grow by 25% next year, a contrast that helps explain the subdued multiple. The rebound may attract value buyers, but the earnings trend remains a concern.

VA Tech Wabag: ROE Strength, Growth Readiness Amid Share Decline (NSE:WABAG)

January 7, 2026, 7:59 PM EST. VA Tech Wabag (NSE:WABAG) shares have fallen about 14% in three months, yet the company shows a promising earnings backdrop. This note centers on ROE (return on equity), a measure of profit generated from shareholders' funds. For the trailing twelve months to September 2025, ROE stood at 14% on ₹3.2 billion of net profit and ₹23 billion of equity. That compares with the industry average of 8.9%. Five-year net income growth reached 26%, helping earnings growth outpace the sector's 3.2% pace. A higher ROE paired with profit retention can lift long-run growth even when initial returns look modest. The analysis flags factors such as payout ratio and exposure to a high-growth segment as potential drivers of the outlook.

IIFL Capital Services shares jump 27% in a month, but growth doubts linger

January 7, 2026, 7:58 PM EST. IIFL Capital Services Limited NSE:IIFLCAPS surged 27% in the past month and 26% over the last year. The stock trades at about 21x P/E versus the Indian market's roughly 26x, a gap some see as mispricing. Still, earnings deteriorated by 19% last year, even as three-year EPS rose about 114%, underscoring a choppier path to growth. No analyst forecasts are available; the firm notes peers are projected to deliver around 25% growth next year, suggesting investors doubt the sustainability of momentum. The piece cautions that P/E alone can mislead and urges assessment of cash flow and growth quality. In short, valuation may lag momentum, keeping investors cautious on the duration of the rally.

Sigma Solve shares rise 25% as earnings growth supports elevated P/E

January 7, 2026, 7:57 PM EST. Sigma Solve Limited (NSE:SIGMA) shares climbed about 25% in the past month, extending an 81% gain over the last year. The stock trades at a P/E of 28.2x, higher than many Indian peers where P/E multiples below 25x are common; a high multiple can be justified by faster earnings growth. The company posted 28% EPS growth last year and a 165% three-year rise, supporting optimism that earnings will outpace the market. Analysts have not provided estimates, but investors appear willing to pay up for continued outperformance. A cautionary note remains: if earnings growth slows, the high P/E could prove vulnerable. This snapshot underscores how short-term price action and earnings trajectory drive valuation, as shareholders weigh the pace of expansion against broader market forecasts.

Western Digital Dips as Markets Retreat Ahead of Earnings

January 7, 2026, 7:45 PM EST. Western Digital shares fell 1.71% to $41.89, lagging the S&P 500's 0.33% loss; the Dow slid 0.37% and the Nasdaq 0.53%. Over a month, the stock is down 15.03%, worse than the Computer and Technology sector's 7.14% drop and the S&P 500's 4.03% decline. Ahead of earnings, Western Digital is seen posting an EPS of $1.06 and revenue of $3.85 billion, up 68.25% and 11.4% year over year. For the full year, the Zacks Consensus calls for EPS of $5.46 and revenue of $16.27 billion, changes of +2830% and +25.13% from a year ago. The stock trades at a Forward P/E of 7.81, below the industry 12.83. Zacks ranks it #3 Hold. Forward P/E = price-to-earnings using forecast earnings; Zacks Rank = a 1-5 rating.

Wix shares fall as market drifts ahead of earnings release

January 7, 2026, 7:44 PM EST.Wix.com (WIX) closed at $167.88, down 1.01% for the session, underperforming the S&P 500's 0.33% drop. The Dow fell 0.22%, while the Nasdaq slipped 0.56%. Over the past month, Wix has gained about 7.7%, outpacing the Computer and Technology sector and the S&P 500. Analysts expect Wix to post EPS of $1.44, up about 30.9% year over year, with revenue seen at $443.27 million, up 12.6%. For the full year, consensus calls for EPS of $5.85 and revenue of $1.75 billion, representing about 33% and 12% growth, respectively. Zacks assigns Wix a Hold with a #3 Rank. The stock trades at a forward P/E around 29 and a PEG ratio of 1.29, versus industry-level metrics of 28.66 and 2.79.

IPO Edge and CorpGov to Host NYSE Fireside Chats on Feb. 3, 2026

January 7, 2026, 7:43 PM EST. IPO Edge and CorpGov will host 15-minute fireside chats from the NYSE trading floor on Feb. 3, 2026. The interviews will be recorded in a multi-camera, high-definition studio and published across owned sites and syndication partners, including Yahoo Finance, Bloomberg Terminal (via LSEG Workspace), and Reuters. Clips will also appear on social platforms such as LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Interested guests should email the Editor at IPO Edge. A sample interview, with Tad Nacheff, NYSE Head of East Coast Capital Markets, is available in the linked article.

Stock futures flat as Wall Street pauses after early 2026 rally stalls

January 7, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. US stock futures were little changed Wednesday evening as Wall Street paused after a rocky session that ended multi-day rallies for the major averages. Dow futures were near flat, with S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 contracts also around the baseline. In regular trading, the S&P 500 and Dow closed lower despite intraday highs, while the Nasdaq Composite finished modestly higher as Alphabet surged more than 2%, briefly lifting its market value above Apple for the first time since 2019. Geopolitical flashpoints kept risk in focus as oil retreated after comments about Venezuela's oil assets and long-term US control. Traders eye Friday's December jobs report and a possible Supreme Court ruling on tariffs. CES 2026 steers AI talk; Intel jumped on the Core Ultra 3 reveal.

Trump housing clamp weighs on homebuilders; defense stocks rally after-hours on budget bets; Tilray to report

January 7, 2026, 7:41 PM EST. Stocks eased after hours as the S&P 500 pulled back from a record, with homebuilders under pressure after Trump urged curbs on large institutional buyers. Invitation Homes fell about 6%, Blackstone 5.6%, Apollo 5.5%; the group about 22% off its September peak. The four builders-NVR, PulteGroup, D.R. Horton and Lennar-are down 4-7% from peaks, with Lennar down 16% in a month and D.R. Horton 12%. In defense stocks, Trump's call for limits on dividends and buybacks weighed on General Dynamics, Lockheed, and Northrop; RTX slid 2.5%, though after-hours traded higher on hopes for a bigger defense budget. Five sectors remain off highs: Energy 4%, Tech 5.7%, Real estate 7%, Consumer staples 7.7%, Utilities 9.8%. Tilray reports after the bell; the stock is down 61% from October and 38% year-over-year, but up 22% in the past month.

Tata Communications ownership split: private firms hold 45%, institutions 43% (NSE:TATACOMM)

January 7, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. Private companies hold about 45% of Tata Communications, while institutions own roughly 43%. The largest shareholder is Panatone Finvest Limited with 45% of shares. The second and third largest holders control about 14% and 4.7%, respectively. Two top shareholders together hold about 59% of the stock, per the registry. The ownership pattern suggests concentration that could move when big holders trade. Insider ownership is discussed, though figures vary by jurisdiction. Analysts track earnings history; investors should weigh ownership alongside earnings trends and market sentiment.

Jay Bharat Maruti: 25% Month Rally Tests Caution as Earnings Drive P/E Debate

January 7, 2026, 7:27 PM EST. Jay Bharat Maruti Ltd shares rose 25% in the past month, lifting year-to-date performance. The stock trades around a P/E of about 16.7x, below the Indian market median as roughly half the peers trade above 26x. The jump follows exceptionally strong earnings, with last year's bottom line up 151% and three-year EPS growth of 73%. However, broker notes say the P/E multiple remains below the market median due to expectations earnings won't improve enough to sustain a higher multiple. With the market expecting about 25% earnings growth next year, investors must weigh whether recent gains reflect a lasting improvement in earnings or a temporary surge. The takeaway: the P/E alone doesn't tell the full story; earnings trajectory will drive future price action.

Rico Auto Industries shares jump 28% in 30 days as optimism clashes with high valuation

January 7, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. Rico Auto Industries shares rose 28% over the past 30 days, extending a 44% annual gain. The stock trades at about 42.3x P/E, well above many peers, raising questions about sustainability. The company posted 15% earnings growth last year and 22% earnings growth over three years, but analysts have not published fresh estimates for this year. Investors seem to price in a possible turnaround, even as growth momentum appears uneven. With a high valuation and modest recent growth, some investors may temper expectations, watching for signs of sustained earnings expansion and cash-flow viability. The lack of forecasts makes the risk-reward balance harder to judge.

Shakti Pumps climbs 27% in a month; P/E signals cautious sentiment despite earnings growth

January 7, 2026, 7:25 PM EST. Shakti Pumps has surged 27% in the last month but remains down 46% over the past year. The stock trades at a P/E of 22.5x, below many Indian peers where multiples exceed 26x and 50x is common. The figure may reflect investor doubt about growth, despite earnings acceleration: the last year delivered a 17% bottom-line gain, and EPS is up about 658% from three years ago. Market expectations point to roughly 25% earnings growth next year, while Shakti's momentum in recent results appears stronger. The P/E may reflect sentiment and expectations rather than traditional fair value. A promotional aside on US dividend stocks appears in the report.

Critical Metals surges after Greenland pilot-plant approval

January 7, 2026, 7:16 PM EST. Critical Metals (CRML) jumped 16.5% to about $13.75 after Greenland approved construction of a pilot-plant for its Tanbreez rare-earth project. Volume surged to roughly 46.2 million shares, about 200% above the three-month average. The day's range was $12.26-$13.97; the 52-week range runs $1.23-$32.15. The S&P 500 slipped 0.34% while the Nasdaq edged up 0.16%. Investors weigh project funding, costs, and geopolitics as drivers of stock moves. With rare earths key to advanced defense tech, the Greenland development heightens supply-security debate amid U.S. focus on strategic resources.

Stocks settle mixed as rally fades; Nasdaq 100 hits 3.5-week high

January 7, 2026, 7:15 PM EST. Stocks closed mixed: the S&P 500 fell 0.34%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 0.94%, while the Nasdaq 100 edged up 0.06%. March E-mini S&P futures slid 0.36% and March E-mini Nasdaq futures gained 0.03%. The Nasdaq 100 posted a 3.5-week high; the S&P 500 and Dow pulled back from record highs, led by weakness in chipmakers and data-storage names. Defense stocks slumped after President Trump said he won't allow dividends or buybacks for defense firms. Bond yields fell, helping support stocks as labor data came in softer than expected: the 10-year yield slipped to about 4.14%. ADP payrolls rose less than forecast, and JOLTS openings declined. The week ahead centers on productivity, payrolls, and housing data.

Alphabet climbs as U.S. lawmakers advance autonomous-vehicle hearings, Waymo leads

January 7, 2026, 7:14 PM EST. Alphabet shares (GOOG, GOOGL) rose more than 2% on news that top American politicians would hold hearings on advancing autonomous driving. Waymo, Alphabet's self-driving unit, remains a leader in the space, helping lift Alphabet after the market opened. The U.S. House energy and commerce subcommittee will meet to consider draft proposals to accelerate deployment of autonomous vehicles. One measure would allow up to 90,000 such vehicles per year; another would curb states' ability to set rules for self-driving systems. Regulators and industry players see momentum in Washington as a sign the technology is moving closer to scale. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said a relaxed framework could boost U.S. competitiveness with China, which has been pushing a stronger auto-software ecosystem.

Compass surges after $750 million convertible notes offering to fund Anywhere merger

January 7, 2026, 7:13 PM EST.Compass rose about 9% after unveiling a $750 million convertible senior notes offering to help fund its merger with Anywhere Real Estate. The move came as it raised fourth-quarter guidance and traders piled into the stock on a surge in volume. Shares traded around $11.8, with volume near 95 million, far above the three-month average. The broader market was mixed, with the S&P 500 slipping and the Nasdaq inching higher. Rival Zillow rose on the day. The deal's dilution risk is weighed against the strategic benefits of the combination, which shareholders approved, though full impact may take quarters to materialize.

XFLX:CA AI-Generated Signals Neutral Across Near, Mid and Long Terms

January 7, 2026, 7:12 PM EST. AI-generated signals for XFLX:CA, the iShares Flexible Monthly Income ETF CAD-hedged, show a Neutral stance across Near, Mid and Long horizons as of January 7, 2026. The feed lists explicit trading plans: a long entry near 38.40 with a target of 38.82 and a stop at 38.21, and a short near 38.82 with a target around 38.40 and a stop at 39.01. Ratings for the period are Neutral across all tenors. The data note, timestamped January 7, underscores updates from an AI signal provider. CAD-hedged structure aims to reduce currency risk when holding Canadian-dollar-denominated assets. The report also references a chart for XFLX:CA as context.

Bright Valley Capital takes US$33.36 million stake in Full Truck Alliance; stock seen undervalued

January 7, 2026, 7:11 PM EST. Bright Valley Capital has built a new US$33.36 million stake in Full Truck Alliance (NYSE:YMM), as revenue data show growth in transaction and value-added services. Despite the stake and revenue mix, sentiment remains mixed; the stock posted a 30-day return of 8.06% decline and a 90-day drop of 16.38%, though a 3-year TSR of 22.42% keeps longer-term holders in the green. The stock may be trading below its intrinsic worth: last close US$10.72 versus a narrative fair value of US$14.52, implying undervalued status. Growth drivers include expansion of value-added services and premium offerings such as credit solutions, tiered shipper membership, and branded entrusted shipments, widening revenue quality and profitability. Risks include slower freight brokerage volumes and rising customer acquisition costs that could pressure margins. Investors should watch earnings ramp and changes in revenue mix to assess the thesis.

Is Incyte (INCY) Still Attractive After a 51% One-Year Gain?

January 7, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. Incyte trades near $110.57 after a 51% one-year gain. The stock shows a mix of signals: a valuation score of 4 out of 6 and a wide gap in a DCF model. A Two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity model pegs intrinsic value around $400.96 per share, implying the stock is about 72% below that estimate. This frames the shares as undervalued on a cash-flow basis, though other methods are more cautious. The analysis notes P/E context and the role of the company's pipeline and portfolio versus peers. Investors should weigh the persistent sector dynamics in biopharma and the sensitivity to pipeline outcomes. The takeaway: valuation remains mixed; potential upside exists, but risks remain tied to clinical progress and competitive pressure.

Dallas juice maker Buda Juice plans $20 million IPO on NYSE American

January 7, 2026, 7:09 PM EST. Dallas-based Buda Juice outlined an IPO to raise $20 million through an offering on the NYSE American Exchange. Shares are priced at $7.50 and will begin trading on Jan. 8, with the sale closing Jan. 9. Proceeds will fund new production facilities in South Carolina and the Arizona/Nevada region to serve the East and West coasts, expand Dallas production capacity, and cover costs tied to being a public company. The company says it aims to capture juice demand as two-thirds of Americans drink juice weekly, with Gen Z and Millennials driving health, flavor, and convenience trends. CEO Horatio Lonsdale-Hands notes the pivot from owned stores to retail partners widened reach while preserving quality. Buda Juice launched in 2014 as a Plano kiosk; the Dallas site reportedly reaches about 45 million consumers.

Antero Midstream Valuation: Mixed Near-Term Moves, Durable Longer-Term Returns

January 7, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. Antero Midstream (AM) closed at $17.19, with a mixed near term. The stock gained 0.2% today but slipped 3.4% in the week, and is -4.2% YTD. Still, 1-year TSR: 16% and 5-year TSR >200% point to stronger longer-term momentum. A fair-value narrative sits near $18.79, suggesting the shares are undervalued. The thesis relies on long-term exclusive contracts with Antero Resources and more than two decades of natural-gas inventory, delivering earnings visibility and margin support. Key risks: gas demand and Appalachian dynamics; production slowdowns or tighter regulation could pressure margins. The current P/E is 17.4x (above the industry 13.1x but below peers at 39.1x and our fair 19.7x), leaving some valuation risk but room for upside if results hold.

IAMGOLD joins the S&P Composite Index; focus shifts to Côté Gold ramp and costs

January 7, 2026, 6:53 PM EST. IAMGOLD has been added to the S&P Composite Index, elevating liquidity and visibility for the Canada- and Burkina Faso-focused gold producer. The move sharpens attention on Côté Gold's production ramp-up, reserve life and unit costs, while maintaining the narrative around Essakane and geographic risk. The report notes a normal course issuer bid to repurchase up to 57 million shares, funded from operating cash flow after repaying second-lien notes, signaling confidence in cash generation but grounding the story in execution at Côté Gold and Burkina Faso exposure. Near term, valuation rests on Côté Gold's ramp, with balance sheet discipline and supply risks influencing multiples. The piece cites a target of about CA$2.5 billion in revenue and CA$553.7 million in earnings by 2028, alongside a CA$24.69 fair value and roughly 5% upside.

Stock futures little changed after S&P 500, Dow retreat from record highs

January 7, 2026, 6:47 PM EST. Stock futures hovered near the flatline after the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average pulled back from intraday records. Dow futures added about 12 points, S&P 500 futures rose 0.06% and Nasdaq 100 futures were little changed. In the regular session, the S&P 500 and the Dow closed lower, snapping three straight gains, while the Nasdaq Composite rose about 0.2% as Alphabet jumped 2.4% and briefly pushed the group past Apple on a market cap basis for the first time since 2019. Oil traded lower after comments from President Trump about Venezuelan oil flow, with refiners Valero and Marathon climbing on supply hopes. Investors await the Supreme Court's tariff rulings, which could renew volatility.

SolarEdge pricing after 1-year rebound: DCF signals overvaluation

January 7, 2026, 6:46 PM EST. SolarEdge Technologies closed at $30.52, with a 12-month rally of about 103.6%. Over the past week the stock rose 5.8%, while 30-day moves were modest; year-to-date it is down 2.7%. Shares have swung from deep losses over three and five years to a sizable one-year rebound. The company carries a valuation score of 3 out of 6, reflecting mixed signals on value. A two-stage DCF model estimates intrinsic value at $22.72 per share, implying the stock is about 34% above fair value and thus overvalued. The stock trades at a P/S ratio of 1.75x. SolarEdge's demand trends for solar deployments remain a key variable for the stock.

Affirm Holdings still overvalued after three-year surge, valuation model shows

January 7, 2026, 6:45 PM EST. Affirm Holdings trades near $83 after a strong three-year run. The stock has surged 11.6% in the last week and remains up 7x over three years, while five-year returns show a 14.6% decline. In-house valuation flags: AFRM scores 0/6 on the standard checks, signaling no undervaluation. The Excess Returns model calculates an intrinsic value of about $32.10 per share, implying the shares are roughly 158.7% overvalued vs the current price. The calculation starts with a Book Value of about $10.00 and a Stable EPS of $1.95, yielding an Excess Return of $0.86 per share and an implied Cost of Equity of $1.08. Analysts note ongoing BNPL partnerships and consumer-credit sentiment as key drivers. The piece also discusses P/E as a quick valuation yardstick, though it depends on growth and risk.

Seiko Epson may be undervalued after 1-year decline, DCF suggests

January 7, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. Seiko Epson's shares have fallen 23.9% over the last year, but rose 1.5% in the week and 4.0% in the last 30 days. Three-year gains are 12.6%, five-year 51.4%. Valuation is mixed: Simply Wall St scores 5/6, signaling potential undervaluation. A two-stage DCF implies an intrinsic value of ¥2,831.73 per share, about a 28.9% discount to the market price. The model uses last-twelve-month free cash flow of ¥28,348.9 million and projects growth to roughly ¥57,587.5 million by March 2030. The story is not one-note: P/E remains a key gauge, linking price to earnings, but growth and risk expectations shape what is fair. Bottom line: the stock looks undervalued on cash-flow math, but guard for assumptions.

Ardea Resources market cap rises AU$27 million as individual investors lead shareholder base

January 7, 2026, 6:42 PM EST. Ardea Resources Ltd (ASX:ARL) saw its market cap rise by AU$27 million last week, a gain that disproportionately rewarded individual investors, who own about 59% of the stock. The top 22 shareholders hold 41%, while insiders (board and executives) own roughly 12%, and the CEO Andrew Penkethman owns 1.4%. The largest holder is Star Success Pte Ltd with 8.7% of shares, followed by others at 6.8% and 5.1%. Institutions have a small stake and there is no evident hedge fund ownership. Analysts are not covering the stock. The data suggest a dispersed shareholder base, giving the public more say in governance if the stock advances, though future earnings remain the key driver.

Emera's 4% yield on TSX could power set-and-forget income into 2026

January 7, 2026, 6:41 PM EST. Emera (TSX: EMA) is a regulated utility with North American operations, driven by growth in Florida. In this model, earnings come from regulator-approved investments and returns, not commodity swings. The stock has risen about 34% over the past year; the 52-week range is roughly $47-$67. The dividend is about $2.91 per share, just over a 4% yield, with a payout ratio near 60%, suggesting sustainability. In Q3 2025, adjusted EPS reached $0.88; reported EPS was $0.76. Adjusted net income was $263 million versus $236 million a year earlier, helped by Tampa Electric; Nova Scotia Power and New Mexico Gas softened. Management laid out a $20 billion capital program for 2026-2030, targeting 7%-8% rate base growth through 2030, with roughly 80% of investment in Florida. A Peoples Gas rate case completion through 2028 adds regulatory clarity. Valuation: about 20x forward earnings.

Autoliv valuation under review after multi-year gains; fair value near $138

January 7, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. Autoliv (NYSE:ALV) trades near $125.17 after a run of multi-year gains. The analysis puts a fair value around $138, implying upside remains. Over 1-year total shareholder return roughly 35.5% and 3-year total shareholder return about 72.35% frame the bullish backdrop. The thesis leans on ongoing efficiency programs-automation, digitalization, and direct labour reductions-that should lift net margins and operating leverage even if volumes stay flat. Key risks include potential tariffs and slower vehicle production that could temper revenue assumptions. The narrative sketches a revenue glide path and a step up in profitability, with a smaller share count supporting the valuation. Investors can stress test scenarios to see how different inputs drive the outlook.

Roku valuation mixed as DCF suggests 36.7% undervalued at $113.28

January 7, 2026, 6:39 PM EST. Roku (ROKU) trades near $113.28 as investors weigh how much growth is baked in. Over the past year it has gained about 45.2% and 3-year returns total 140.4%, while the 5-year return shows a 72.7% drop. Simply Wall St scores Roku 3 out of 6 on valuation. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model estimates a fair value of about $178.86 per share, implying the stock is undervalued by around 36.7%. The model relies on trailing free cash flow of roughly $394.9 million and forecasts to 2026 and 2030. Roku's P/S ratio is about 3.68x, above the Entertainment industry average of roughly 1.57x, signaling higher growth or risk priced in.

Mobileye jumps after $900 million Mentee Robotics deal; markets digest acquisition

January 7, 2026, 6:37 PM EST. Mobileye Global (MBLY) rose 0.49% to $12.24 after premarket news that it will acquire Mentee Robotics for $900 million. The developer of ADAS (advanced driver-assistance systems) and autonomous-driving technology posted a 50.8 million-share volume, about 800% above its three-month average. The day's trading range was $12.10 to $14.335, and the company's market cap sits near $9.9 billion. Broader markets drifted: the S&P 500 fell 0.34% to 6,922, while the Nasdaq Composite ticked up 0.16% to 23,584. Among peers, Aptiv and BorgWarner declined. The deal tees up potential synergies between Mobileye's AI perception stack and Mentee's humanoid robotics, though payoff may unfold over years.

Nat-Gas Rises as Colder Weather Forecasts Boost Heating Demand

January 7, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. February Nymex natural gas (NGG26) closed up 5.22% as forecasts turn colder weather for January 17-21 boost heating demand and trigger short covering. The Commodity Weather Group flagged a Midwest-East Coast chill. US electricity output rose 6.7% year over year in the week ended Jan 3, supporting gas use. Production remains near a record, with dry gas output at 112.6 bcf/day and a 2025 production forecast of 107.74 bcf/d. LNG net flows to US terminals fell about 7.7% week over week. Analysts expect a -109 bcf weekly EIA draw. European storage stood at 60% of capacity, below the 5-year average of 73%, signaling ample global supplies into winter.

Santen Pharmaceutical: ROE at 11% supports 3-month gain; growth under review

January 7, 2026, 6:35 PM EST. Santen Pharmaceutical's stock has risen 6.1% over three months as investors weigh its fundamentals. The company posted a trailing twelve-month ROE of about 11% (JP¥31b profit on JP¥274b equity to Sept 2025), indicating efficient use of shareholder capital. Relative to the industry's ~6.8% average, Santen's ROE stands out, aiding a five-year net income growth of around 20%. The analysis notes that high ROE plus earnings retention can lift future growth, though other factors matter-payout policy and management efficiency among them. When compared with industry growth of ~7.7%, Santen's trajectory appears stronger. Investors will watch whether this translates into sustainable returns as market dynamics unfold.

Australia shares poised to open lower as NZ markets retreat

January 7, 2026, 6:34 PM EST.Australian shares are poised to open lower, with New Zealand markets also down as global sentiment remains fragile. Traders await fresh data and corporate updates to set the tone for the session. Pre-market activity points to a cautious start, with early losses possible in exposed segments and a steadier footing for defensive names. Investors will weigh macro signals, commodity prices, and policy outlooks as they map early-week risk. The outcome could influence regional momentum ahead of earnings and data releases.

TSX slips as energy and industrials lead decline; U.S. indexes retreat from records

January 7, 2026, 6:33 PM EST. Canada's main stock index slid as energy and industrials weighed on the market. The S&P/TSX Composite closed down 271.53 points at 32,135.49, and the Canadian dollar weakened to about 0.7231 U.S. The losses were led by industrials, with Brookfield Business Partners and Atkins Realis among the biggest decliners; energy names Arc Resources and Canadian Natural Resources also fell. Financials slipped, while health-care names offered limited relief. Real-estate names rose, helping offset some damage. Across the border, U.S. markets retreated from records, though the NASDAQ advanced while the Dow and S&P 500 pulled back. The day reflected ongoing sensitivity to energy supply signals and sector rotations.

Musashi Seimitsu Industry stock trails earnings growth but delivers dividend-driven TSR over three years

January 7, 2026, 6:32 PM EST. Musashi Seimitsu Industry Co., Ltd. (TSE:7220) faced a tough quarter, with shares down about 26%. Over three years the stock is up roughly 70%, but the gain trails earnings growth. The company grew its EPS about 26% per year for three years, while the stock price rose about 19% annually, suggesting the market hasn't fully priced the earnings trajectory. The three-year TSR (total shareholder return) sits near 80%, helped by dividends. In the last year, the broader market gained around 30%, but Musashi Seimitsu Industry fell about 30% (including dividends). Five-year returns run around 11% annually. The pullback may offer a value entry, but investors should watch the growth trend, dividend outlook, and any rising risks.

Okamoto Glass shares jump 36% in a month as high P/S prompts scrutiny

January 7, 2026, 6:31 PM EST. Okamoto Glass Co., Ltd. (TSE:7746) extended its rally, up 36% in the last month, after a 103% gain over the past year. The stock trades at a price-to-sales ratio (P/S) of 3.1x, higher than many peers in Japan's electronic industry, where about half sit below 0.7x. That valuation warrants scrutiny. Revenue declined 9.5% last year, and over three years has fallen 18%. By contrast, the industry is expected to grow about 7.0% next year, underscoring a disconnect between price and recent performance. Investors may be pricing in a rebound, but a P/S reversion could bite if revenue stays weak. Note: the P/S compares market value to revenue, a common gauge when profits lag.

ReNew Energy Global stock hits oversold RSI of 29.6; shares near $6.21

January 7, 2026, 6:29 PM EST. ReNew Energy Global plc (RNW) traded in oversold territory as its RSI fell to 29.6, below the 30 threshold used to flag pressure. The stock dipped to an intraday low of $6.145 and was near $6.21 at the close, down about 3.6% on the session. The one-year chart shows a 52-week range of $4.035 to $7.79. Context: the Energy Stock Channel universe posts an average RSI of 41.7; WTI Crude's RSI is 42.9; Henry Hub Natural Gas 37.6; and the 3-2-1 Crack Spread RSI is 44.1. A bullish approach could view the 29.6 reading as potential exhaustion of selling and seek entry on the buy side.

YPF stock crowded with sellers as RSI hits oversold level

January 7, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. YPF SA's shares traded as low as $16.18 on Monday as the stock entered oversold territory. The RSI (Relative Strength Index, a momentum gauge on a 0-100 scale) reading slipped to 29.98, versus a broader energy group whose RSI averages about 41.0. WTI Crude Oil sits at 33.5, Henry Hub Natural Gas at 31.2 and the 3-2-1 Crack Spread at 50.4. A last trade around $17.41 leaves the stock near its 52-week low of $9.57 and below the 52-week high of $24.765. The stock is down roughly 4.5% on the day. Some traders view the oversold signal as indicating exhausted selling and may seek nearby entry points, though downside risk remains in a volatile energy complex.

Pampa Energia stock moves into oversold territory as RSI hits 29.8

January 7, 2026, 6:27 PM EST. Pampa Energia SA (PAM) traded as low as $35.35 on Wednesday, as its RSI reached 29.8, signaling potential oversold conditions. The RSI is a momentum gauge that moves 0-100; readings below 30 are commonly viewed as oversold. PAM's intraday low sits near the bottom of its day range, while the Energy Stock Channel's energy-universe RSI averages about 35.8. Other market data include WTI Crude at 45.5, Henry Hub Natural Gas at 65.8, and the 3-2-1 Crack Spread RSI at 36.2. A cautious investor could interpret the 29.8 reading as exhaustion of selling and look for a constructive entry point. In the last year, PAM traded between $21.93 and $48.79; the current last price is around $35.41, down about 2.1% on the day.

Crude Prices Tumble as Global Supply Outlook Signals Surplus

January 7, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. February WTI futures closed down about 2%, and February RBOB slid 0.4%, as traders price in a growing supply cushion. Crude eased after the U.S. rolled back some Venezuela sanctions, with interim authorities said to offer up to 50 million barrels of 'high-quality sanctioned oil' to the United States. The session steadied after a larger-than-expected EIA inventory draw and a S&P 500 rally supporting demand sentiment. Geopolitics remained in focus after a Russian-flagged tanker was seized on sanctions grounds. China demand showed resilience, with December imports up about 10% m/m per Kpler. OPEC+ reiterated a pause in Q1 2026 production increases as the IEA forecasts a global surplus. Morgan Stanley trimmed its price outlook; Saudi Arabia cut Arab Light prices for February for the third month. Ukrainian attacks have hit refineries in Russia.

Coastal States Bank rings NYSE bell as CoastalSouth Bancshares lists COSO on NYSE

January 7, 2026, 6:25 PM EST. Atlanta, Jan. 7, 2026 – Coastal States Bank rang the New York Stock Exchange Opening Bell to celebrate the IPO and official listing of its holding company, CoastalSouth Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: COSO). Chairman Jim MacLeod and Chief Executive Officer Stephen R. Stone pressed the bell, flanked by members of the bank's board and senior leadership. The ceremony marks the public debut of the holding company and its bank subsidiary under a single traded entity. Trading will proceed under the ticker COSO on the NYSE.

Singapore unveils stock reforms to attract young investors

January 7, 2026, 6:23 PM EST. Singapore unveiled stock reforms aimed at drawing young investors back to the bourse. EY's Chan Yew Kiang said mobile platforms give younger traders access to options, including high-risk cryptocurrencies, with risks aligned to returns. But the market's tepid performance has kept SGX behind the US, and mindshare tilts toward foreign names. Lin Yujun of Interactive Brokers Singapore notes US content dominates social feeds, while Gen Z leans toward US equities and alternative assets, says Moomoo Singapore's Isaac Lim. The 2024 reform review highlights two steps. A dual listing bridge with Nasdaq could launch around mid-2026, letting firms list in SGX and the US. JP Morgan's Ong Changqi says it removes the dilemma of where to list; Lin calls it the "best of both worlds," with less friction and one price, potentially bringing high-growth tech names to SGX for young investors.

Fidelity MSCI Utilities Index ETF FUTY breaks below 200-day moving average

January 7, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. Fidelity MSCI Utilities Index ETF FUTY traded below its 200-day moving average on Wednesday, slipping to as low as $54.31. The shares were about 2.3% weaker for the session. The fund's last trade stood near $54.22, with a 52-week range of $45.94 to $60.56. The 200-day moving average sits at $54.33, a touch above the intraday low. Traders monitor such moving averages as a gauge of trend. A break below can signal momentum shifts, though the ETF has traded in a broad range over the past year.

Mondelez oversold as RSI hits 29.1; dividend yield near 2.9%

January 7, 2026, 6:21 PM EST. MDLZ moved into oversold territory on Wednesday, with the RSI (Relative Strength Index, a momentum gauge) at 29.1 as shares traded as low as $63.01. Dividend Rank (Dividend Channel's scoring of fundamentals versus valuation) places MDLZ in the top half of its coverage universe, signaling a potentially attractive blend of basics and price. The stock's annual dividend of $1.88 yields about 2.90% at the recent price of around $64.81. A lower price can widen the yield for dividend-oriented investors, while the RSI suggests possible near-term support if selling abates. Investors may examine MDLZ's dividend history to gauge sustainability. Note that dividends are not guaranteed; a history chart can help assess whether the latest payout is likely to continue.

VPU crosses below 200-day moving average as ETF slips toward $151

January 7, 2026, 6:20 PM EST. Shares of the Vanguard Utilities ETF (VPU) fell after crossing below its 200-day moving average of $151.63, trading as low as $151.30. The ETF was down about 2.7% on the session. The 52-week range runs from $138.25 to $167.48, and the last trade was $150.78. The move marks a technical test of the long-term trend line.

BXMT breaks below 200-day moving average

January 7, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Blackstone Mortgage Trust Inc. (BXMT) traded below its 200-day moving average of $19.12, a widely watched trend-line used to gauge longer-term momentum, after a session low of $18.71. The stock was down about 1.8% on the day. The move comes as shares sit near the lower end of their 52-week range, which runs from $16.51 to $21.24; the last trade was $18.97. The breach of the 200-day average is a technical signal many investors watch, though it does not by itself determine future results.

Dollar edges higher as US services data beats; euro dips on euro-area data

January 7, 2026, 6:17 PM EST. Dollar index DXY rose 0.11% on Wednesday after the December ISM services index expanded at the fastest pace in 14 months, reversing earlier losses that followed softer ADP and JOLTS data. Safe-haven demand rose after the U.S. seized a Russian-flagged tanker for sanctions violations. Markets priced roughly a 12% chance of a -25 bp cut at the January FOMC meeting, though policy may ease by about 50 bp in 2026. The Fed has begun purchasing $40 billion a month in Treasuries to inject liquidity. The possibility of a dovish Fed Chair, with Trump signaling a decision in early 2026 and Hassett cited by Bloomberg, adds to dollar pressure. In EUR/USD, the euro fell on softer euro-area data: Dec CPI at 2.0% y/y, core CPI at 2.3% y/y, and German retail sales down 0.6% in Nov. USD/JPY rose.

Super Group breaks below 200-day moving average; SGHC slides 9.8%

January 7, 2026, 6:16 PM EST. Shares of Super Group Ltd (SGHC) traded Wednesday below their 200-day moving average of $10.65, touching a session low of $10.38. The stock was down about 9.8% on the day. The 200-day moving average is a long-term trend line calculated from the past 200 trading days. SGHC's 52-week range runs from $5.45 to $14.38; the last trade was $10.39. A chart in the report tracks one-year performance against the moving average, showing how the current price sits near the lower end of the recent range.

Crown Castle Valuation: Tower Focus Could Unlock Value After Fiber Exit

January 7, 2026, 6:15 PM EST. Shares of Crown Castle International Corp. (CCI) sit near $87.13 after a 90-day slide of about 9.6% and a 1-day drop of 1.5%. The tower-and-fiber operator posted annual revenue around $6.4 billion and a net loss near $3.9 billion, echoing the impact of winding down the fiber segment. A recent analysis puts the stock at an intrinsic value of roughly $113.18, a discount of about 32% to that level and roughly 29% to current analyst price targets. The company's shift to a pure-play tower model could unlock value through stronger margins and execution, but risks include regulatory delays and Sprint-related churn. Investors may broaden searches for fast-growing stocks with higher insider ownership while Crown Castle weighs future revenue and margin prospects.

Healthpeak Properties appears undervalued after DCF signals a 48% gap to price

January 7, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. Healthpeak Properties traded at $16.50, posting a 7-day gain of 2.0%, a 30-day decline of 3.1%, and a 1-year drop of 11.4%. In a shifting REIT backdrop, markets are weighing assets and cash flows against sentiment. Our DCF framework, using a two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity approach, pegs the latest twelve-month cash flow at $1.23 billion with a path to about $1.30 billion by 2030. Discounting yields an intrinsic value of roughly $31.99 per share, implying the stock is about 48.4% undervalued versus the current share price. The model aligns with a 5/6 valuation score, while a price-to-sales cross-check adds texture. Investors should watch how sector dynamics and real estate risk perceptions evolve over time.

Teradyne Strikes a High Price; DCF Signals 116% Overvaluation

January 7, 2026, 6:13 PM EST. Teradyne's stock closed at $228.84, marking a multi-year run. The company has seen gains across the week and month, but valuation checks flag risk. A DCF model puts fair value near $105.58 per share, implying about 116.7% overvaluation at the current price. The study shows a 0/6 valuation score. Trailing twelve-month free cash flow is about $485.6 million, with projections around $1.76 billion in 2035 under a two-stage FCF-to-equity framework. Investors remain focused on semiconductor testing and automation themes, but the data suggest much of the rally may be priced in optimism rather than core fundamentals.

Brookfield Asset Management: 34x P/E dwarfs fair value, DCF points to CA$56.67 vs CA$76.16 close

January 7, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. Brookfield Asset Management (TSX:BAM) last closed at CA$76.16. The 7-day return is 5.6%, 30-day 3.4% and the 90-day trend is a 6.6% decline. The 3-year total shareholder return runs about 108%, signaling stronger longer-term momentum. At a P/E of 34x, the stock looks expensive versus peers and the broader market, though it sits near the average analyst target of CA$76.64. Our model's fair P/E is 23.8x, highlighting a valuation gap. A DCF fair value of CA$56.67 suggests downside risk to the current price. Revenue clocks CA$4,486.0 million with net income of CA$2,613.0 million. Risks include a high valuation and possible near-term growth slowdowns. The market already prices higher earnings power than the broader Canadian Capital Markets group.

Urban Outfitters (URBN) valuation after insider sale and record Q3 results

January 7, 2026, 6:11 PM EST. Urban Outfitters (URBN) attracted attention after Co-President & CCO Margaret Hayne sold 18,666 shares under a Rule 10b5-1 plan, even as the company posted a record third-quarter net sales figure. The stock rose 5.28% on the day, with a 90-day return of 12.52% and a 1-year TSR of 42.48%. The three-year TSR approaches 19x, underscoring momentum. Valuation work pegs a fair value near $82.83, a modest valuation gap to the last close of $80.77. The note highlights disciplined inventory and supply-chain management that lift gross margins and support profitability as sales growth drives occupancy and expense leverage. Risks include higher tariffs squeezing margins and rising marketing and expansion spend. Readers can stress-test assumptions; the piece outlines the drivers behind the forecast and the factors that could alter the outlook.

Three AI stocks outpace Tesla in 2025; what it means for investors

January 7, 2026, 6:10 PM EST. Three AI stocks – Alphabet, Micron, and Vertiv – outpaced Tesla in 2025. Alphabet rose about 66.5%, Vertiv 54.5%, and Micron 275%, while Tesla gained 8.5%. Revenue growth for the trio was modest but profits surged: Alphabet up 10.2% in revenue with net income up 24.1%; Vertiv revenue up 21% with 108.6% profit growth; Micron revenue up 35.1% and net income up 154.9%. Tesla revenue fell 2.1% and profit fell 27.8%. At roughly current prices, one share of each AI name costs about $805, near the price of two Tesla shares. The takeaway: AI stocks delivered outsized gains on earnings momentum and AI optimism, but valuations are lofty and outcomes remain uncertain. Diversification remains prudent.

Buying the stock market at current valuations has historically produced weak long-term returns

January 7, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. Last year delivered gains, but valuations sit near peaks. The CAPE ratio, a Shiller measure, ends around 40, while the S&P 500 forward P/E above 22, signaling a stretched backdrop. Mebane Faber of Cambria warns that historically a 40 CAPE yields near-zero real returns over the next decade, a yellow flag rather than a crash cue. Outside the U.S., markets look cheap to cheap-to-cheap; within the U.S., value stocks and small- and mid-caps offer better bargains than mega caps. Keith Buchanan of Globalt Investments notes the 40 CAPE is driven by a handful of names. Diversification is key for 2026, he says. Barclays' Venu Krishna says valuations look reasonable, still expecting double-digit EPS growth if estimates hold.

Roblox (RBLX) Valuation Check: New Ad Formats, Mixed Views Draw Fresh Attention

January 7, 2026, 5:37 PM EST. Roblox (RBLX) is back in focus after rolling out immersive ad formats, expanding programmatic partnerships, and mixed broker views. The stock sits at $75.83, with 30-day return 21.24% and 90-day 39.80%. One-year TSR (total shareholder return) is 23.70%, three-year TSR 136.89%. A fair value of $145.63 signals the stock is UNDERVALUED. The case rests on aggressive top-line growth and margin gains from monetization channels like digital goods, Rewarded Video ads, and a licensing marketplace. The price-to-sales ratio (P/S) is 11.9x vs a fair 4.1x, well above the entertainment peer group. Upside hinges on rapid international growth and margin expansion; risk if viral hits fade or creator payouts squeeze margins. Readers can stress-test their assumptions to gauge the gap.

Roblox Stock Drops as Market Rises; Earnings in Focus

January 7, 2026, 5:35 PM EST. Roblox Corp closed at $75.83, down 6.43% as broad markets rose. The drop leaves Roblox underperforming the S&P 500 (up 0.62%), the Dow (up 0.99%), and the Nasdaq (up 0.65%). The stock has fallen about 17% in the last month, behind the Consumer Discretionary sector's 1.06% gain. Ahead of its next earnings report, analysts expect an EPS (earnings per share) of -$0.50, a 51.5% year-over-year drop, with revenue seen at $2.07 billion, up 52.1% from a year ago. For the full year, the Zacks Consensus calls for -$1.59 per share and $6.64 billion in revenue. Roblox is rated Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). The Gaming group sits in the bottom third of its industry.

Roblox slides after outages as TD Cowen trims target to $70

January 7, 2026, 5:34 PM EST.Roblox shares fell as much as 7% on Tuesday after overnight outages and a lower price target from TD Cowen to $70 from $77. Downdetector, which tracks outages by aggregating user reports, showed about 22 outage notifications per second at the peak Monday into Tuesday. TD Cowen analyst Doug Creutz said user engagement with Roblox's top titles, including Grow a Garden and Steal a Brainrot, declined about 52% from mid-September to mid-December. The firm also trimmed its fiscal-year bookings forecast to $8.09 billion from $8.48 billion. (Bookings are a measure of contracted revenue to be recognized over time.)

Notable Wednesday option activity in STNG, COHR and A

January 7, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. Notable Wednesday option activity across STNG and COHR and A. In STNG, 3,888 contracts traded, about 388,800 underlying shares, or 41.9% of its 928,660-share average daily volume. The standout: the $50 strike put (an option to sell) expiring April 17, 2026, with 1,369 contracts, roughly 136,900 shares. COHR posted 16,037 contracts, about 1.6 million underlying shares, or 41.7% of its 3.8 million-share average. The top line: the $210 strike call (an option to buy) expiring January 16, 2026, with 5,341 contracts, about 534,100 shares. For A, options volume reached 8,284 contracts, about 828,400 shares, or 40.7% of its 2.0 million daily volume. The $150 strike call expiring September 18, 2026, with 5,733 contracts, about 573,300 shares. More expirations and charts at StockOptionsChannel.com.

Lilly to buy Ventyx Biosciences for $1.2 billion as obesity-pill bets sharpen

January 7, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. Eli Lilly shares rose after it agreed to buy Ventyx Biosciences for $1.2 billion, expanding beyond diabetes and weight-loss drugs. Lilly closed up 4.1% at $1,108.09, after touching $1,117.37, valuing the company near $1 trillion. The cash offer of $14 a share is a 62% premium to Ventyx's 30-day VWAP (volume-weighted average price); Lilly expects closing in H1 2026, pending votes and regulators; about 10% of Ventyx shares have signed support. Lilly's research chief Daniel Skovronsky cited inflammation as a disease driver; Ventyx CEO Raju Mohan called the tie a strategic fit. The broader market was mixed: S&P 500 down, Dow lower, Nasdaq up ahead of payrolls data. Nimbus Therapeutics struck an AI-enabled obesity collaboration with Lilly; Lilly also eyes Aktis Oncology's IPO.

Sandisk stock steadies after CES spike ahead of Jan. 29 earnings

January 7, 2026, 5:15 PM EST. After-hours, Sandisk shares rose 1.2% to $353.56, outpacing peers as investors digest Nvidia-driven CES chatter. A 27% surge on Tuesday followed Jensen Huang's remarks about a new storage layer; NVIDIA rose 1%. Traders eye Jan. 29 earnings for NAND pricing (flash memory chips) and AI-driven demand. Sandisk, separated from Western Digital in Feb 2025, now trades as a pure play on flash memory. CES disclosures flagged three Optimus tiers, with the top end aimed at AI PCs and workstations. But the rally carries risk: demand can turn, and price gains invite supply. The next catalyst is the Q2 results and a 1:30 p.m. PT conference call on Jan. 29, plus Friday's payrolls data and Fed rate-path signals. Reuters

Broadcom prices $4.5 billion four-tranche bond deal; stock barely budges after hours

January 7, 2026, 5:14 PM EST. Broadcom priced $4.5 billion of senior notes in four tranches, with coupons from 4.3% to 5.7% and maturities to 2031, 2033, 2036 and 2056. The notes, unsecured and unsubordinated, carry spreads of 60 to 88 basis points over Treasuries. Proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes and debt repayment. In after-hours trading, Broadcom shares were down about 0.1% near $343.50. Investors will watch the Jan. 13 settlement and Friday's U.S. payrolls report for rate and risk appetite cues. The deal signals longer funding horizons as yields guide demand for new corporate paper; higher Treasuries can lift funding costs and pressure rate-sensitive tech names, even as the S&P 500 slides and the Nasdaq climbs.

Wall Street slows after strong start as Trump comments hit homebuilders

January 7, 2026, 5:13 PM EST. The S&P 500 dipped 0.3% from an all-time high on Wednesday, ending a four-day gain. The Dow fell 466 points, 0.9%, while the Nasdaq inched up 0.2%. Homebuilders slid after President Trump proposed limits on large institutions buying single-family homes; D.R. Horton down 3.6% and PulteGroup off 3.2%. Blackstone briefly dropped more than 9% before settling at a 5.6% loss. Elsewhere, Warner Bros. Discovery rose 0.4%, Paramount Skydance fell 1%, and Netflix gained 0.1%. The S&P 500 closed at 6,920.93 (-23.89), the Dow at 48,996.08 (-466.00), and the Nasdaq at 23,584.27 (+37.10). Oil fell as Trump cited Venezuelan supply; WTI -2% to $55.99, Brent -1.2% to $59.96. The ISM services index showed faster growth and easing inflation, though price pressures persist.

APLD's AI infra momentum may drive 2026 revenue

January 7, 2026, 4:55 PM EST. Applied Digital APLD is moving from development to revenue as its AI infrastructure portfolio comes online. Polaris Forge 1 is now operational, with 400-megawatt capacity and a lease from CoreWeave valued at about $11 billion over 15 years, projecting roughly $500 million in annual net operating income once fully online. Polaris Forge 2 is under construction with 300 megawatts, backed by Macquarie financing, and the company has a 4-gigawatt active development pipeline. Zacks pegs fiscal 2026 revenue at $280.9 million, about 27% higher year over year. Competition intensifies from Riot Platforms (RIOT) and Equinix (EQIX), which pressure the timing of leases and facility completions. Execution risk remains as APLD scales across multiple sites, balancing rapid deployment with revenue conversion.

Cocoa prices retreat as West Africa crop prospects improve

January 7, 2026, 4:50 PM EST. March ICE NY cocoa (CCH26) and March ICE London cocoa (CAH26) closed lower, touching one-month lows as favorable West Africa crop prospects emerge. West Africa conditions, especially Ivory Coast and Ghana, are expected to lift the February-March harvest, with farmers reporting larger, healthier pods. Mondelez noted a cocoa pod count above the five-year average, supporting expectations of tighter supplies. Ivory Coast shipments to ports through Jan. 4 totaled 1.073 million MT, down 3.3% from a year ago. A potential BCOM inclusion could attract up to $2 billion of NY cocoa buying, per Citigroup. Cocoa inventories at ICE-monitored U.S. ports fell to a 9.75-month low of 1,626,105 bags as demand remains soft elsewhere. ICCO cut 2024/25 surplus to 49,000 MT; Rabobank lowered 2025/26 surplus to 250,000 MT; a delay to the EUDR deforestation law also weighs.

Brazil Rain Shortfall Lifts Arabica Prices as Robusta Slumps

January 7, 2026, 4:49 PM EST. Prices moved mixed as arabica futures rose while robusta eased on supply cues and currency moves. March arabica closed up 1.60 cents to near a four-week high after below-average rainfall in Brazil's Minas Gerais raised crop-condition concerns; Somar Meteorologia said the region received 47.9 mm in the week to Jan. 2, about 67% of the historical average. A firmer Brazilian real supported arabica by dampening export demand. ICE stocks showed divergent signals: arabica inventories tumbled to a multi-year low in late Nov before climbing to a 2.5-month high, while robusta inventories recovered from a deeper trough. Vietnamese exports and 2025/26 supply growth weigh on prices, even as ICO data imply tighter global flows; Conab raised Brazil's 2025 production to 56.54 million bags.

Reduced Brazil Sugar Exports Lifts Prices as Output Outlook Dims

January 7, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Sugar prices rose as the real strengthened, signaling tighter near-term exports. NY world sugar #11 SBH26 closed up 1.49% after gaining 0.22, while London ICE white sugar #5 SWH26 added 0.97% with a 4.10-point rise. Safras & Mercado trimmed Brazil's 2026/27 production to 41.8 MMT, a 3.9% drop from 2025/26, and flagged an 11% drop in exports to 30 MMT. India's output remains a counterweight, with ISMA's latest data showing a jump in production and potential for higher exports. On the supply side, Conab lifted 2025/26 Brazil production to 45 MMT; ISO still foresees a global surplus in 2025-26, underscoring a mixed backdrop for prices and the balance of cane for sugar.

PWR Holdings (ASX:PWH) DCF sets intrinsic value at AU$8.48; shares near AU$8.80

January 7, 2026, 4:47 PM EST. PWR Holdings' intrinsic value is estimated at AU$8.48 per share using a two-stage Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. The current AU$8.80 share price indicates the stock trades near its estimated fair value. An analyst price target of AU$8.22 implies a potential downside. The analysis uses ten years of levered free cash flow (FCF) and then a Terminal Value calculated with the Gordon Growth formula. Present value of the initial decade's cash flows totals about AU$242 million, discounted at 7.8%. Projected FCF rises from AU$2.03m in 2026 to AU$57.1m in 2035, with growth rates tapering over time. The report notes a DCF is one valuation metric among many and carries limitations.

Trump threatens to block dividends and buybacks at defense firms

January 7, 2026, 4:46 PM EST. President Donald Trump said on Truth Social that he will not permit dividends (cash returns to shareholders) or stock buybacks (corporate share repurchases) at defense companies until they address industry complaints, including production delays and executive pay. He called executive compensation 'exorbitant and unjustifiable' and urged that, until new plants are built, no executive should earn more than $5 million. The posts singled out Raytheon as least responsive to the Pentagon and warned of cutting ties unless it increases investment in plants and equipment; no further buybacks would be allowed. Shares of General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman each fell about 3% after the comments, while RTX slid in after-hours trading. It was unclear whether the remarks carry any binding force; the White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Jefferies Q4 CY2025 sales beat estimates; GAAP EPS misses consensus

January 7, 2026, 4:45 PM EST. Jefferies Financial Group reported Q4 CY2025 revenue of $2.07 billion, topping estimates of $2.01 billion and up 5.7% year-over-year. GAAP EPS was $0.85, below consensus of $0.94. Pre-tax profit totaled $253.2 million with a 12.2% margin. Tangible book value per share (TBVPS) stood at $33.69, just under analysts' $33.79 target, marking a 14.6% year-over-year decline. The firm's market value is about $13.7 billion. Jefferies describes itself as a global investment banking and capital markets company; long-term revenue growth has lagged its five-year trend (4.1% annualized), though two-year growth has accelerated (~25%). The results reflect ongoing mix and rate effects across segments.

January Risk Signals for 2 TSX Small-Cap Stocks to Watch in 2026

January 7, 2026, 4:35 PM EST. Two TSX small-cap names illustrate the risk-and-reward in income plays as 2026 begins. Freehold Royalties (FRU) is a royalty company, not an oil producer, earning cash from a diversified stream of production payments. In Q3, FFO was $59 million ($0.32 per share); net debt around $263 million and net debt-to-trailing FFO about 1.1x. The firm pays a monthly dividend of $0.09; payout ratio near 75%. The setup favors a cycle-aware income holding, not a bond substitute. Labrador Iron Ore Royalty (LIF) depends on IOC distributions. Q3 revenue $10.8 million, net income $2.1 million ($0.03/sh), and no IOC dividends in the quarter. Q3 dividend was $0.40, down from $0.47. LIF trades near a $1.9 billion market cap with a P/E around 17.6; valuations hinge on iron ore demand and IOC payouts. Investors should assess comfort with dividend volatility.

AI bubble debate persists as investors back Applied Digital stock

January 7, 2026, 4:34 PM EST. Investors remain undeterred by an AI-stock bubble debate, focusing on names that stand to benefit from surge in AI computing demand. Applied Digital, a developer of high-performance computing data centers for hyperscalers, has seen shares jump more than 200% over the past year, outpacing the S&P 500. The company cites large-scale contracts and growth in data-center demand, including a 400-megawatt facility tied to CoreWeave's AI/HPC work and about $11 billion in contracted lease revenue. It also struck a loan facility with Macquarie and says it is in advanced talks with another investment-grade hyperscaler. While valuations pose risk for unprofitable firms, the debate has not deterred serious AI investors who expect continued data-center spending to power AI workloads. Applied Digital and data centers serve as a key pillar of the AI build-out.

Applied Digital (APLD) Valuation Check Amid New Loan, Cloud Spin-Off for AI Data Center Growth

January 7, 2026, 4:32 PM EST. Applied Digital (APLD) heads into its Q2 cycle with a Macquarie-backed loan facility and a spin-off of its cloud arm, refocusing on AI data center development. The announcements underpin a share-price surge, with 1-day return around 14.6% and a 1-year total shareholder return above 200%. A Narrative-based valuation pegs fair value near $43.70 and flags a potential undervaluation vs peers, though the view hinges on long-term leases with hyperscale customers. The company has signed a 15-year leasing deal with CoreWeave for Polaris Forge 1 worth about $7 billion in contracted revenue, offering recurring revenue but increasing leverage risk. At a look-through level, the price-to-sales multiple around 46x contrasts with industry norms near 2x-5x, suggesting limited margin for error. Investors should weigh growth against debt and client concentration.

BMO downgrades Brown & Brown on competitive pressures; target trimmed to $88

January 7, 2026, 4:31 PM EST. On December 23, BMO Capital Markets downgraded Brown & Brown, Inc. (BRO) to Market Perform (a rating indicating expected in-line performance with the market) from Outperform, and cut its price target to $88 from $90, citing expected lower organic growth in 2026 and a potential sentiment overhang. The broker notes BRO's valuation tracks organic growth and sees its forecast about 100 basis points below consensus. A reported 'talent war' with Howden includes Brown & Brown losing a large team to a competitor. Separately, the company said a subsidiary acquired the assets of the J. Kevin Campbell Agency, Inc., with Campbell and Ostovar joining the Tampa and Ocala offices, respectively. Brown & Brown operates as an insurance brokerage offering risk management across property, casualty, and employee benefits lines. Investors will weigh the downgrade against expansion moves and long-term growth prospects.

Newmont (NEM) valuation under review as momentum builds

January 7, 2026, 4:26 PM EST. Newmont Corp. (NEM) is drawing renewed attention after a momentum-driven move. The stock trades near $109.20 with reported revenue of $21.503b and net income of $7.187b. Over the past 30 days, returns of 21.66% and 23.53% over 90 days underscore the pace, while a 191.02% 1-year total shareholder return frames the longer view. An intrinsic discount of about 29.67% places the price near the average thesis of $109.30 target, though one fair-value view calls $104.53 and labels the stock OVERVALUED. The P/E ratio at 16.6x trails peers around 30x, raising questions about pricing versus growth. Risks include lower-grade ore, higher capital spending, and integration missteps that could dent margins. Core assets like Lihir and Boddington support cost discipline and EBITDA trajectories.

Ferrari shares slide after 2030 guidance; investors eye potential opportunity

January 7, 2026, 4:25 PM EST. Ferrari's shares slipped about 1.4% to roughly $367 after the luxury automaker published 2030 guidance (management's forecast for 2030) that analysts viewed as conservative. The company projects net revenue of at least €7.1 billion this year and about €9 billion in 2030, a path that has raised questions about longer-term growth. Ferrari has a history of low-balling its medium-term targets, a pattern some traders say helps explain how the stock often underperforms near term before topping estimates later. The stock has fallen roughly 25% over the past three months, creating a rare pullback for a company known for strong margins. Ferrari's operating margins have expanded for years, aided by pricing power and racing technology that feeds its street cars; 2025 forecast: 15,000-17,000 vehicles.

Tyro Payments shares fall 64% over five years as earnings turn profitable

January 7, 2026, 4:24 PM EST. Tyro Payments (ASX:TYR) has shed about 64% of its value over five years, despite the company moving from a loss to profitability. In the period, earnings per share (EPS) shifted into the black and revenue rose about 20%. Yet the share price declined, underscoring how market sentiment can diverge from fundamentals. The five-year TSR (total shareholder return) is negative, about -10% per year, even as the stock posted a 23% return over the last 12 months. Analysts note one warning sign flagged by the Simply Wall St analysis. Investors should weigh the improving earnings backdrop against valuation and market conditions; the free report suggests the business may still turn around, but risk remains.

Notable Wednesday option activity in BX, INVH and RKT

January 7, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. Options traders piled into Blackstone Inc (BX), Invitation Homes (INVH) and Rocket Companies (RKT) on Wednesday. BX saw 20,137 contracts traded, about 2.0 million underlying shares and roughly 55.9% of its 1-month average daily volume. The heaviest activity centered on the $140 put expiring December 18, 2026, with 1,498 contracts, about 149,800 shares. INVH turned over 30,576 contracts, around 3.1 million shares, about 55.6% of its 1-month average. The largest block was the $30 call expiring February 20, 2026, with 8,012 contracts, or about 801,200 shares. RKT posted 102,141 contracts, about 10.2 million shares and 53.7% of average daily volume, led by the $22 call expiring January 9, 2026 with 18,226 contracts (~1.8 million shares).

Wednesday option activity in JEF, CCK and CROX shows heavy put volume (Feb 20, 2026)

January 7, 2026, 4:21 PM EST. Wednesday options activity showed notable volume in JEF, CCK and CROX. JEF traded 7,612 contracts, about 761,200 underlying shares and roughly 46% of its 1.6 million average daily volume. The highlight was the $57.50 strike put option, which gives the right to sell at 57.50, expiring Feb 20 2026, with 1,756 contracts (~175,600 shares). CCK handled 6,599 contracts (~659,900 shares, 46% of 1.4 million). The top strike was the $90 put expiring Feb 20 2026 with 6,467 contracts (~646,700 shares). CROX posted 6,201 contracts (~620,100 shares, 45.9% of 1.4 million). The active $70 put expiring Feb 20 2026 logged 3,272 contracts (~327,200 shares). All expirations cited include Feb 20 2026.

Wednesday option activity: MLYS, MPW, PZZA see notable volume

January 7, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. Noteworthy Wednesday option activity across MLYS, MPW and PZZA dominated liquidity. Total options volume: MLYS 92,683 contracts today, equivalent to about 9.3 million underlying shares (one contract equals 100 shares). That is roughly 623% of MLYS's 1-month average daily volume of 1.5 million shares. The standout is the $30 put expiring Mar 20, 2026 with 46,238 contracts, about 4.6 million shares. MPW: 76,796 contracts (≈7.7 million underlying shares), about 120% of the 1-month average volume of 6.4 million. The most active: the $5.50 call expiring Jan 9, 2026 with 51,506 contracts (~5.2 million shares). PZZA: 8,122 contracts (~812,200 shares), about 119% of the 1-month average of 681,735. The leading: the $32.50 put expiring Feb 20, 2026 with 6,108 contracts (~610,800 shares). Source: StockOptionsChannel.com.

Notable Wednesday Option Activity: VRNS, URI, BAC

January 7, 2026, 4:19 PM EST. Volatility remains elevated in select Russell 3000 components as options activity heats up. Each option contract covers 100 shares. VRNS saw 9,319 contracts traded today, about 931,900 underlying shares, or 44.3% of its 1-month average volume of 2.1 million. The heaviest flow focused on the $40 call expiring Jan 16, 2026, with 4,744 contracts, about 474,400 shares. URI traded 2,795 contracts today, roughly 279,500 shares, or 43.5% of its 1-month average of 642,355. The top name was the $750 put expiring Feb 6, 2026, with 735 contracts, about 73,500 shares. BAC options showed 152,426 contracts, representing about 15.2 million shares, or 43.1% of its 1-month average; the notable trade was the $60 call expiring Apr 17, 2026 with 20,956 contracts (about 2.1 million shares).

Noteworthy Wednesday option activity in HAYW, CELH and GTES

January 7, 2026, 4:18 PM EST. Option activity on Wednesday drew attention in three Russell 3000 components: Hayward Holdings Inc (HAYW), Celsius Holdings Inc (CELH) and Gates Industrial Corp PLC (GTES). HAYW traded 11,052 contracts today, about 1.1 million underlying shares, roughly 77.4% of its 1-month average volume of 1.4 million. The most active is the $16 strike call expiring January 16, 2026, with 6,002 contracts (~600,200 shares). CELH totaled 34,690 contracts, about 3.5 million shares and 76.5% of its 1-month average of 4.5 million. The top is the $50 strike call expiring January 16, 2026 with 7,192 contracts (~719,200 shares). GTES saw 14,642 contracts, ~1.5 million shares, or 75.3% of its 1-month average of 1.9 million; the $22 strike call due January 16, 2026 traded 8,502 contracts (~850,200 shares).

Notable Wednesday option activity in SWK, NOVT and NET

January 7, 2026, 4:17 PM EST. Options activity among Russell 3000 components was notable on Wednesday. SWK saw 7,143 contracts traded, about 714,300 underlying shares, representing 45.8% of its 1.6 million-share daily average. The most active contract was the $80 strike call expiring Jan 16, 2026, with 2,794 contracts, representing approximately 279,400 shares. A chart shows SWK's twelve-month history with the $80 strike highlighted. NOVT posted 2,174 contracts, representing approximately 217,400 underlying shares, or approximately 45.5% of its 478,265 avg. The $140 strike call expiring Feb 20, 2026 drew 1,877 contracts, representing approximately 187,700 shares. A chart shows NOVT's history with the $140 strike highlighted. NET traded 8,805 contracts, representing approximately 880,500 underlying shares, or approximately 45.2% of its 1.9 million avg. The $300 strike call expiring Apr 17, 2026 was active with 2,551 contracts, representing approximately 255,100 shares. Data from StockOptionsChannel.

Australian shares set to open lower as S&P 500 hits record; US job openings fall

January 7, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Australian shares are set to open modestly lower after consumer price index (CPI) data showed a 3.4% annual rise to November, below forecasts. In the US, the S&P 500 (record high overnight) rose on megacap tech gains and renewed optimism around AI (artificial intelligence). Attention turns to the latest US job openings data; vacancies fell to 7.15 million in November, the lowest in a year, signaling a cooling labor market. ASX futures were down 7 points (-0.08%) at 8,705. In New York, the Dow Jones and the S&P 500 traded lower while the Nasdaq rose. Commodities were mixed: gold slipped; oil eased; the AUD slid to 67.24 US cents. The ABS, Australia's Bureau of Statistics, will release trade in goods data for November 2025 later today.

ASX growth stocks with high insider ownership and strong earnings growth

January 7, 2026, 4:06 PM EST. Australian equities face inflation and rate-move jitters as IT steadies gains and energy remains pressured. In this environment, growth stocks with sizable insider ownership can align management with shareholders, especially when earnings growth is strong. The screener flags Wisr (WZR, 10.2% insider ownership; 96.3% earnings growth), Titomic (TTT, 15% insider ownership; 74.9% earnings growth), Sea Forest (SEA, 15.1% insider ownership; 92.6% earnings growth), Pure One (P1E, 11.5% insider ownership; 114.6% earnings growth), Polymetals Resources (POL, 32.9% insider ownership; 108% earnings growth), Pointerra (3DP, 19.8% insider ownership; 110.3% earnings growth), Newfield Resources (NWF, 31.5% insider ownership; 72.1% earnings growth), Lunnon Metals (LM8, 11% insider ownership; 31.4% earnings growth), Echo IQ (EIQ, 19% insider ownership; 51.4% earnings growth), and Adveritas (AV1, 18.4% insider ownership; 96.8% earnings growth). The list also notes Kogan.com (KGN) with 21.5% insider ownership and 51.1% earnings growth forecast, and Liontown Resources (LTR) with 12.1% insider ownership and 73.2% earnings growth forecast.

Coupang undervalued on DCF, but high P/E warrants caution

January 7, 2026, 4:04 PM EST. Coupang's stock closed at $23.53, with a 7-day dip and a 30-day slide, while a DCF-based view puts intrinsic value at about $36.21 per share, implying the stock is undervalued by roughly 35%. The analysis uses a two-stage Free Cash Flow to Equity model projecting through 2027 and beyond to 2035. Trailing twelve-month free cash flow is about $1.27 billion. On a P/E basis the multiple is about 110x, well above the industry average of 19.42x and peer group at 35x, signaling valuation may reflect higher growth or risk. Coupang's strength lies in its dominant position in South Korea and its expanding logistics network, but that scale also invites scrutiny of margins and competitiveness.

Wells Fargo raises Walmart price target to $130, keeps Overweight on WMT

January 7, 2026, 4:02 PM EST.Wells Fargo raised its Walmart price target to $130 from $120 and kept an Overweight rating on WMT, signaling potential outperformance versus the benchmark. The firm described a mixed 2026 sector outlook but sees opportunities in broadlines and food service, aided by ongoing trade-related momentum in EPS revisions through the first half. It cautioned that food retail could be more challenging and that company-specific factors will matter most. Walmart relies heavily on groceries, with more than half of revenue from that segment; fiscal 2025 grocery sales surpassed $276 billion and Sam's Club added about $59 billion. The company maintains a large international footprint, with 3,000+ stores in Mexico, 400+ in Canada, and a majority stake in Flipkart; a Flipkart IPO could unlock additional value. Walmart operates as a tech-enabled omnichannel retailer serving groceries and general merchandise.

Cotton slips from midday gains as futures retreat; Cotlook A Index up

January 7, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. Cotton futures retraced from earlier gains, trading higher at midday but slipping back as the session progressed; most contracts were up 3 to 5 points. In broader markets, crude oil futures fell about $1.26 to $55.87 a barrel, while the U.S. dollar index ticked up to 98.37. The The Seam online auction showed sales at 61.13 cents per pound across 41,576 bales. The Cotlook A Index advanced 65 points to 74.70 cents as of January 6, and ICE certified cotton stocks were steady at 11,510 bales. The Adjusted World Price was updated to 50.76 cents per pound last week, up 74 points from the prior week. Data are for reference and subject to change.

RTX valuation check after strong 1-year shareholder return

January 7, 2026, 3:59 PM EST.RTX shares are in focus as investors weigh the aerospace and defense group's latest price performance. The stock trades at $190.40, about 3.5% below the average analyst target of $197.05. In the last 30 days, RTX rose 11.28% and 90 days 12.95%, with a 1-year total shareholder return of 68.95% signaling strong momentum atop longer-term gains. The most-followed view pegs fair value at $194.65, a modest upside versus the current price. Underpinning the narrative is a 7.89% discount rate applied to projected cash flows, yielding the $194.65 fair value and an implied undervalued stance. Risks include jet-engine reliability issues and cybersecurity costs at Collins Aerospace. The stock's current P/E of 38.7x sits near aerospace-defense peers' 38.6x and the sector average of 40.7x, implying limited upside if sentiment softens.

American Homes 4 Rent crosses 4% yield mark as AMH trades near $28.84

January 7, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. Dividend Channel data show AMH delivering a quarterly dividend of $0.30, annualized to $1.20, yielding about 4.2% at a share price near $28.84. In market terms, the yield is the annual dividend expressed as a percentage of price; a higher yield can signal income potential but depends on payout sustainability. AMH is a member of the Russell 3000, reflecting its large-cap status. The stock traded as low as about $28.84 on the day, raising questions about whether the recent payout is sustainable. Dividends have historically contributed a portion of total return; investors should review profitability and payout history to assess steadiness and the durability of the 4% yield.

Hogs slip Wednesday as lean hog futures retreat; USDA data mixed

January 7, 2026, 3:57 PM EST.Lean hog futures were down 70 cents, trading near $1.30 per pound on Wednesday, as modest volume kept the USDA's national base hog price unreported in morning trade. The CME Lean Hog Index fell 8 cents to $81.54 as of Jan. 5. Pork carcass cutout value rose $1.48 to $92.73 per hundredweight in the Wednesday morning report, with the belly primal the sole cut lower. USDA said federal hog slaughter on Tuesday totaled 495,000 head, bringing the week's cumulative to 993,000, up 51,000 from a week ago and 57,696 above the same week last year.

Cattle futures slip as cash trade subdued; boxed beef dips

January 7, 2026, 3:56 PM EST.Live cattle futures are down 42 cents to $1.25 per pound at midday, with no deliveries against April contracts expiring today. Cash trade remains subdued, with a few reported sales around $214 in Kansas and $218 in the northern Plains. The Central Stockyards Fed Cattle Exchange, using the BidTheGrid online auction method, showed 40 of 1,028 head sold at $216 in Iowa; other bids were $209-210. Feeder cattle futures fall about $1.80 to $2.15. The CME Feeder Cattle Index rose $1.43 on April 28 to $295.14. USDA's National Wholesale Boxed Beef report shows lighter activity; Choice boxes at $345.77, down $2.49, and Select at $323.15, down 67 cents. Slaughter was estimated at 120,000 head for Tuesday, with weekly total at 224,000, down from last week and year.

Banc Of California crosses 2% dividend yield; shares near $19.78

January 7, 2026, 3:55 PM EST. Banc Of California Inc (BANC) traded with a dividend yield above 2% after its quarterly payout, with an annualized dividend of $0.40 per share and a price near $19.78. Dividend yield = annual cash dividend divided by the share price. The stock is a member of the Russell 3000, highlighting its size among U.S. equities. Dividend Channel notes dividends can contribute meaningfully to total return, though past results do not guarantee future payouts. A longer-run example shows reinvested dividends can boost returns, but not always. A sustainable 2% yield may appeal to income-focused investors if profitability supports it; investors should review the dividend history and earnings trend to assess sustainability.

Citizens Financial Group's yield tops 3% as CFG trades near $61

January 7, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. Shares of Citizens Financial Group Inc (CFG) yielded above the 3% mark based on a quarterly dividend of $1.84 annualized, with the stock trading as low as $61.05. Dividends are a meaningful driver of total return; the note cites a long-run SPY example where price fell from $146.88 in 1999 to $142.41 in 2012, yet dividends totaled about $25.98 per share, producing a positive total return around 23.36%, or roughly 1.6% annualized with reinvestment. As an S&P 500 member, CFG carries large-cap status. The piece warns that dividend amounts depend on profitability and can be unpredictable, and it suggests a history chart to assess whether the current 3% yield is sustainable.

Kinetik Holdings crosses 9% dividend yield threshold

January 7, 2026, 3:53 PM EST. Kinetik Holdings Inc (KNTK) traded with a dividend yield above 9% after its quarterly payout, annualized at $3 per share, with the stock trading as low as $32.22 on Tuesday. The note highlights that dividends can contribute to total return; the example using the iShares Russell 3000 ETF (IWV) illustrates how payouts affect long-run performance. KNTK is a member of the Russell 3000, underscoring its size among U.S. equities. Dividend amounts are not guaranteed and depend on profitability; investors should assess whether the current payout is sustainable before anchoring on a 9% yield.

Energizer Holdings (ENR) yields above 6% as shares trade near $19.71

January 7, 2026, 3:52 PM EST. Energizer Holdings (ENR) traded near the 6% yield threshold on Wednesday, with the yield defined as the annualized dividend of $1.20 per share relative to the price. The stock traded as low as $19.71, implying a forward yield above 6% for investors relying on the payout. The note underscores how dividends contribute to total returns alongside price moves; a look at IWV from 2000-2012 shows dividends can boost overall performance even when price changes are small. ENR is a member of the Russell 3000, underscoring its status as a large-cap U.S. equity. Dividends are not guaranteed; investors should assess profitability and the sustainability of the payout when judging a 6% yield.

Soybeans rally on Wednesday as nearbys firm; market eyes USDA export sales

January 7, 2026, 3:51 PM EST. Soybeans rose on Wednesday, with nearbys up about 12-13 cents and the cash bean price at $9.95 1/4 per bushel, up 12 3/4 cents. Soymeal futures firmed by roughly $5.70 to $7, while soybean oil edged higher. The market saw 88 deliveries against January soybeans, with 78 for bean oil. The USDA has returned to a normal Export Sales release schedule, with expectations for 2025/26 exports of about 0.75-1.3 million metric tons (MMT); 2026/27 sales are seen in a 0-300,000 MT range. Soymeal bookings projected at 100,000-350,000 MT; soybean oil at 0-30,000 MT. Brazil December exports reached 3.38 MMT, up 68.6% YoY but down 19.4% from November.

Corn futures hold midday gains as ethanol output slows, exports dip

January 7, 2026, 3:50 PM EST. Corn futures edged higher at midday, with most contracts up 2 to 3 cents. The CmdtyView national cash price rose 2 3/4 cents to $4.09. The EIA said ethanol production for the week ended Jan. 2 fell by 22,000 barrels per day to 1.098 million bpd, while stocks rose 708,000 barrels to 22.652 million. Exports slipped 35,000 bpd to 113,000 bpd, though refinery inputs fell 117,000 bpd to 771,000. The report highlights a seasonal pattern after the holidays. Brazil's December corn exports reached 6.128 MMT, up 43.6% year over year and 21.75% from November. Nearby futures trade near session highs, with May and July contracts modestly higher.

ASX to slip as futures signal modest dip; Wall Street mixed; AUD steadies

January 7, 2026, 3:49 PM EST. ASX 200 set to slip about 0.1% in early trade, with futures around 8,672 points. In the United States, the S&P 500 was nearly flat, down 0.02% to 6,944; the Dow Jones fell 0.7% to 49,129, while the Nasdaq rose 0.4% to 25,734. The Australian dollar traded at 67.26 US cents.

Wheat futures rise at midday as export data eyed

January 7, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. Wheat futures rose at mid-session on Wednesday as traders awaited export-sales data. Chicago SRW futures were up 8-10 cents, KC HRW up 10-11 cents, and MPLS spring wheat up 6-8 cents. Export sales data for the week of Jan. 1 due Thursday are seen at 200,000-500,000 MT (metric tons) for 2025/26, with bookings for 2026/27 seen at 0-100,000 MT. China's Vice Premier said the winter wheat crop area remains steady, though planting conditions are weak in some regions. Prices across the exchanges were firmer, with CBOT near $5.20-$5.29, KCBT near $5.31-$5.43, and MIAX around $5.74-$5.85.

Crypto's three-year arc: hype, collapse, cleanup

January 7, 2026, 3:45 PM EST. 2021 marked a hype cycle for crypto, with Fortune 500s backing on-chain apps, celebrity NFT momentum and VC funding. The chorus 'WAGMI' echoed as crypto communities formed around tokens and apps. 2022 delivered a collapse: prices slid, Terra's algorithmic stablecoin (a type pegged by code rather than reserves) lost its peg, and the Three Arrows Capital failure exposed risky lending. Bitcoin fell more than 60%, and FTX's bankruptcy and Sam Bankman-Fried's arrest capped the year. 2023 began a cleanup: prices stagnated, users departed, and capital shifted toward AI ventures. Regulators stepped up enforcement of existing rules, while bankruptcy cases and prosecutions mounted. Industry figures framed the purge as a necessary cleansing that could unlock lasting potential, even as broader interest cooled.

Blackstone stock slides on Trump plan to ban institutional buyers of single-family homes

January 7, 2026, 3:43 PM EST.Blackstone's shares fell as much as 5% in midday trading after President Donald Trump signaled on Truth Social that he would seek to ban institutional investors from buying more single-family homes. He urged Congress to codify such a ban, arguing that people should live in homes, not corporations. Blackstone, which manages more than $1 trillion, has built a large rental portfolio by buying hundreds of thousands of single-family homes and apartments. The firm has said it owns less than 1% of housing in each market and often renovates and relists properties. Critics say such purchases reduce supply and push prices higher. Trump planned to discuss housing ideas at Davos near the end of January. The news comes as the stock reacts to policy headlines.

Halliburton valuation check after pullback

January 7, 2026, 3:41 PM EST. Halliburton's HAL shares fell 3.4% in the latest session but posted gains over the week, month and 3 months. A closer look shows positive momentum in 30-day and 90-day price returns, even as longer-run measures lag. The stock trades around $30.83, near analyst targets, with an indicated intrinsic closer to its fair value of $30.38 per share. A valuation narrative suggests the stock is overvalued on a narrative basis, though the P/E ratio of 19.8x sits near a 21x fair reference and close to the US Energy Services group average of 19.9x. Analysts expect a modest decline in shares outstanding (~2.95% annually) over the next 3 years. Risks include faster decarbonization or weaker upstream spending that could erode earnings.

RTX stock hits all-time high as defense orders, aviation demand bolster outlook; Wall Street sees $215 target

January 7, 2026, 3:39 PM EST. RTX Corporation rose to an all-time high of $188.14 on Jan. 5, 2026, as defense orders and commercial aviation demand bolster investor confidence. The aerospace and defense group posted a strong 2025 amid rising global military spending. Notable contracts include a $1.7 billion Patriot system deal for Spain and a $785 million Tomahawk missile order. RTX raised 2025 earnings guidance to $6.10-$6.20 per share, beating prior estimates. The stock has logged roughly a 60% gain in 2025 and a 64.62% return over the past 12 months. Some analysts peg a $215 target, citing persistent sector tailwinds as geopolitical tensions persist.

Wednesday Sector Leaders: Healthcare, Services Lead Midday Market Moves

January 7, 2026, 3:37 PM EST. as of midday Wednesday, the Healthcare sector leads gains, up about 0.6%. Within it, Agilent Technologies (A) and Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO) rise 2.6% and 2.5%, respectively. The XLV ETF is up 0.6% today and 9.01% YTD. A and TMO are down 0.18% and 0.76% YTD, and together they account for roughly 4.4% of XLV holdings. Next, the Services sector advances about 0.5%. Among large Services stocks, ULTA up 4.3% and DLTR up 3.7%. The IYC ETF is down 0.2% intraday but up 28.46% YTD. ULTA is down 23.27% YTD; DLTR down 49.53% YTD. Together ULTA and DLTR comprise about 0.5% of IYC holdings. Five sectors were higher mid-session, led by Healthcare (+0.6%) and Services (+0.5%).

Wednesday Sector Laggards: Utilities, Materials Drag on Midday Markets

January 7, 2026, 3:35 PM EST. Midday on Wednesday shows Utilities as the laggard, down 0.5%. Within the group, PG&E Corp (PCG) and Sempra (SRE) fall 1.8% and 1.3%. The XLU ETF is down 0.6% and up 25.81% YTD. PCG and SRE are up 8.32% and 12.58% YTD, together comprising about 8% of XLU's holdings. The next laggard, Materials, slips 0.3%. In that group, Albemarle Corp (ALB) and Avery Dennison Corp (AVY) drop 3.3% and 3.1%. The XLB ETF trades down roughly 0.5% and is up 9.89% YTD. ALB is down 39.07% YTD; AVY up 6.85% YTD, together about 2.7% of XLB's holdings. A sector snapshot shows seven sectors higher, two lower.

RTX stock: quiet chart, loud debate over valuation

January 7, 2026, 3:33 PM EST. RTX stock has settled into a low-volume, sideways pattern after a year defined by a major engine recall and a multi-billion-dollar restructuring. The shares hover near $91 in the latest session, with the price feed showing a last close as markets were not actively trading. Over five sessions, the stock moved little, trading in a tight band in the low-90s and lacking a clear breakout. The 90-day backdrop shows a rebound from autumn lows after digesting the Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan inspection program. The 52-week range runs from the low-70s to low-90s. One year ago the stock traded in the mid-80s; a buy-and-hold investor would be up roughly 7%, plus a dividend. The debate: patient buyers wagering on an aerospace upcycle vs skeptics seeing limited upside after the rebound.

AMD stock slips as CES AI-chip rollout meets profit-taking ahead of Feb. 3 earnings

January 7, 2026, 3:29 PM EST.AMD shares fell about 2.4% in afternoon trading, underperforming a mixed chip tape as investors weigh its CESAI-chip rollout against a tight earnings runway. AMD is set to report fiscal Q4 and full-year 2025 results on Feb. 3 after the close, with a 5 p.m. EST conference call. The company highlighted AI hardware at CES, including MI455 for servers and the MI440X for on-premise deployments, and previewed the MI500 line due in 2027. Ryzen AI 400 and Ryzen AI PRO 400 chips promise up to 60 TOPS. Wall Street targets imply upside over 12 months, with MarketBeat's average at $277.06; ranges span $140-$380. Competition from Intel's Core Ultra 3 and Nvidia's lead remains. Any misstep in execution or weaker guidance could pressure the stock ahead of results.

ASX dividend stocks under spotlight as Helia Group's 20.9% yield raises sustainability questions

January 7, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. Australian investors are eyeing top ASX dividend stocks as inflation and rate moves loom. The list includes TWE (7.74%), SUG (8.11%), KSL (7.99%), AX1 (7.45%) and SUL (6.22%), among others. Of note is Helia Group Limited, flagged by Simply Wall St with a dividend yield of about 20.9%, but a payout ratio near 210% that raises sustainability concerns. Earnings have grown recently, yet forecasts point to softness, and the stock appears undervalued versus estimates. Still, the risky cash flow may limit reliability. Waterco Limited offers a much lower yield around 3% with earnings and cash flow comfortably covering payouts, suggesting steadier income but less upside. The piece underscores the tension between high dividend yields and the need for sustainable cash flows across the Australian dividend stocks landscape.

Cactus (WHD) valuation under debate as momentum shifts

January 7, 2026, 3:27 PM EST. Cactus (WHD) trades near $49.93 after an 8.5% one-month rise and a 36.3% three-month gain, contrasting with a roughly 16% decline in one-year total shareholder return. The divergence signals renewed momentum even as longer-term results remain weak. Analysts show a mixed view: a consensus target around $49.63, with bears as low as $39 and bulls up to $56, while the stock sits near the implied fair value. A full DCF model from WHD yields a far higher fair value of $81.14, implying the market may be undervaluing future cash flows. Risks include weaker U.S. drilling activity and limited pricing power. Readers should review the complete narrative to understand how discount rates and long-term assumptions drive the valuation.

Adidas stock seen undervalued after price weakness, per DCF model

January 7, 2026, 3:26 PM EST. Adidas AG shares closed at €160.95, with a 7-day drop of 4.8%, a 30-day roughly flat period, and a 3.9% year-to-date decline; the stock is down 33.6% in the last year but up 13.2% over three years and down 41.3% over five. According to Simply Wall St's framework, adidas scores 4 of 6 on valuation. The key signal is a DCF result: an intrinsic value around €215.95 per share, implying about a 25.5% undervaluation at the current price. The P/E ratio is 23.73x, versus a luxury industry average of 17.28x. Investors will weigh adidas's repositioning and product changes against these numbers as the stock moves.

DIC (TSE:4631) undervalued after modest move; DCF and P/E signals point to higher fair value

January 7, 2026, 3:25 PM EST. Shares of DIC (TSE:4631) closed at ¥3,673 after a muted session, with longer-term momentum outpacing daily moves: 1-year return 13.61% and 3-year 76.34%. The stock trades at a P/E (price-to-earnings) of 10.7x, below peers (19.5x) and the industry (13.3x), signaling a lighter valuation of profits. The analysis notes an indicated intrinsic discount of 32.55% and a DCF (discounted cash flow)-based fair value of ¥5,445.53, implying the shares are undervalued. Risks include higher input costs or weaker demand in printing, pigments and resins that could squeeze earnings. Simply Wall St's framework suggests a potential multiple expansion if sentiment and fundamentals align.

Raymond James lifts Suncor Energy target to C$75; Outperform rating

January 7, 2026, 3:22 PM EST. Raymond James raised Suncor Energy's target to C$75 from C$70, with an Outperform rating, implying about 19% upside from the current price near C$62.83. Desjardins, JPMorgan Chase, CIBC, National Bankshares and Wells Fargo issued higher or varied targets; the street consensus remains Moderate Buy with a C$67.08 target. The shares traded mid-session near C$62.83 on volume around 3.0 million. Key stats include a market cap near C$75.5B, a P/E of 14.65, and a beta of 0.79. Suncor posted earnings of C$1.48 per share on revenue of C$12.55B; insiders sold shares recently. The stock trades within a 1-year range of C$43.59-C$64.14, with 50-/200-day MAs at C$60.49 and C$57.02.

Raymond James raises Aritzia price target; analysts weigh in

January 7, 2026, 3:21 PM EST. Raymond James Financial boosted its price target on Aritzia Inc. (TSE:ATZ) from C$110.00 to C$130.00, keeping an outperform rating. BMO Capital Markets lifted to C$136.00 with an outperform rating; Jefferies to C$140.00; Canaccord Genuity trimmed to C$93.00; Goldman Sachs upgraded to a strong-buy. Wells Fargo set a C$110.00 target with an equal weight stance. MarketBeat shows a Buy consensus with a mean target of C$117.92. Shares traded around C$125.11, volume about 625,000, as the firm carries a market cap near C$14.4 billion. Analysts expect roughly C$1.78 in annual earnings per share.

TD Cowen raises East West Bancorp target to $141; EWBC stock near $118

January 7, 2026, 3:19 PM EST. EWBC shares traded around $117.66 after TD Cowen raised its target to $141 from $135 and reiterated a Buy rating, implying about 19.8% upside from the prior close. The note follows broader analyst activity: Morgan Stanley lifted EWBC's target to $126 but assigned an Underperform rating; Zacks cut the stock to Hold; UBS kept a Neutral stance with a $126 objective; Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage with an Overweight rating and $124 target; Cowen also maintained a Buy. Market data show a 52-week range of $68.27-$118.55, a P/E of 12.98, a PEG of 1.20 and a beta of 0.88; market cap $16.19B. Last quarter, EWBC posted EPS of $2.08 on revenue of $627.36M; full-year consensus EPS of 8.85. Insider Molly Campbell sold 1,520 shares. MarketBeat tallies a Moderate Buy and a $126.08 target.

Lockheed Martin shares pop as defense-stock rally intensifies on Venezuela tensions

January 7, 2026, 3:18 PM EST. Shares in Lockheed Martin rose at the open as investors rotated into defense stocks amid heightened geopolitical tensions in Venezuela. The move underscores a short-term logic that higher revenue can translate into stronger margins, but the piece notes that defense contractors have faced margin pressure from fixed-price programs and historical cost overruns at LM, RTX, and Boeing. It remains unclear whether these challenges are temporary-driven by supply chain strains and war-related spending-or a longer-term structural issue as governments demand fixed-price contracts. Looking to 2026, the key question is whether Lockheed Martin can meaningfully and sustainably grow margins while delivering core programs such as the F-35. The analysis is attributed to Lee Samaha.

Daily Dividend Report MET DUK MMS ACI NPB: Q1 2026 dividends declared

January 7, 2026, 3:16 PM EST.Dividends are cash payments to shareholders; payable date is when funds are distributed, and the record date is the cutoff to receive the payout. MET: Q1 2026 dividend of $0.5675 per share; payable March 10, 2026, to holders of record as of Feb. 3, 2026. DUK: dividend of $1.065 per share; payable March 16, 2026, to holders of record as of Feb. 13, 2026. MMS: dividend of $0.33 per share, up 10% from $0.30; payable March 2, 2026, to holders of record on Feb. 13, 2026. ACI: Q4 2025 dividend of $0.15 per share; payable Feb. 6, 2026, to record holders on Jan. 23, 2026. NPB: quarterly dividend of $0.025 per share; payable Feb. 3, 2026, to holders of record as of Jan. 15, 2026.

Lockheed Martin climbs 2.9% as analysts weigh targets

January 7, 2026, 3:15 PM EST.Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT) shares rose 2.9% Monday, trading as high as $515.88 and last at $511.5450. Volume reached ~1.98 million, about 31% above the 1.51 million average. The stock closed at $497.07 previously. Analysts issued mixed signals: BNP Paribas upgraded to strong buy; UBS trimmed its target to $513 with a neutral stance; RBC lifted to $525 with sector-perform; JPMorgan neutral with a $515 objective; Morgan Stanley equal-weight with a $543 target. MarketBeat shows a Hold consensus at $506.67. Valuation features a $118.37B market cap, 17.03 P/E, PEG 1.41, and beta 0.24. Q3 results on Oct. 21: EPS $6.95 on revenue $18.61B; ROE 111.84%; net margin 5.73%. FY2025 guide is 22.15-22.35. A quarterly dividend of $3.45 was paid Dec. 30 to holders of record Dec. 1.

Disney investors circle January dates as momentum builds

January 7, 2026, 3:08 PM EST. Disney enters January with momentum after a December rally that trimmed its 2025 decline to a modest gain, though the stock underperformed the broader market. The month features events aimed at lifting park attendance and revenue. On Jan. 16, Florida's Epcot International Festival of the Arts opens, while California's Disneyland After Dark launches with Sweethearts' Nite on Jan. 22, a hard-ticket event that concentrates crowds for higher per-capita spend. On Jan. 27, investors will watch for profitability in Disney's premium streaming business, led by Disney+ and Hulu, after years of losses. The streaming slate includes all five Indiana Jones films on Disney+, the debut of Tron: Ares, and Disney Handcrafted, a highly anticipated doc, underscoring a push to monetize franchises in 2026.

Wednesday Sector Leaders: Biotechnology, Drugs

January 7, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Biotechnology shares led Wednesday's session, rising about 3.2% as a group. Prokidney jumped about 27%, and Vor Biopharma surged roughly 22.3%. The Drugs sector also advanced, about 2.9%, with Rhythm Pharmaceuticals up about 31.3% and Cartesian Therapeutics higher by 27.2% on the day. Jargon note: biotechnology refers to companies developing therapies using living systems; drugs denotes pharmaceutical developers.

Wednesday Sector Laggards: Construction Materials & Machinery, Computer Peripherals

January 7, 2026, 3:04 PM EST. On Wednesday, Construction Materials & Machinery stocks were among the session's laggards, down about 3.4%. Within the group, Apogee Enterprises fell about 12.8% and JELD-WEN Holding shed around 9.1%. Computer Peripherals also declined, down roughly 2.8% as a group, led lower by Seagate Technology Holdings (about 8.2%) and Corsair Gaming (about 4%). Laggards are securities that underperform the broader market on a given day. The moves highlight sector-specific weakness in a midweek trading session.

Wednesday ETF Movers: BUG climbs, SLVR slides

January 7, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. On Wednesday, the Global X Cybersecurity ETF, ticker BUG, rose about 2.4% as cybersecurity names led gains. Top contributors included Varonis Systems, up roughly 7.5%, and CrowdStrike Holdings, higher about 5.8%. The Sprott Silver Miners & Physical Silver ETF, ticker SLVR, fell about 4.5% midday. Within SLVR, Endeavour Silver dropped about 8.3% and Hecla Mining slid around 7.2%.

QQH ETF shows unusual Wednesday volume as Intel, Nvidia drive activity

January 7, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. The HCM Defender 100 Index ETF (QQH), an exchange-traded fund, is seeing unusually high volume in afternoon trading Wednesday, with more than 217,000 shares traded versus a three-month average of about 30,000. QQH was about 0.8% higher on the day. By component, Intel led activity, up about 6.7% on more than 123.5 million shares, followed by Nvidia, up about 1.4% on roughly 100.9 million shares. Western Digital lagged, down about 9.1%, weighing on the ETF. The session underscores how individual stock moves can drive ETF activity even when the fund itself trades near unchanged.

Brazil Sugar Export Outlook Lifts Prices as India Output Rises

January 7, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. March NY world sugar #11 (SBH26) rose 0.25 cents to +1.69%; March London ICE white sugar #5 (SWH26) gained 5.40 cents (+1.27%). The gains follow a firmer Brazilian real, which curbs export sales and tightens near-term supplies. The real also hit a one-month high against the dollar. ISMA, the Indian sugar body, reported 25% y/y growth in 2025/26 production to 11.90 MMT for Oct-Dec and lifted its full-year forecast to 31 MMT, while trimming ethanol-use estimates to 3.4 MMT, potentially freeing more sugar for export. Safras & Mercado cut 2026/27 Brazil production to 41.8 MMT and flagged exports down to 30 MMT. ISO still sees a global 2025-26 surplus, even as world output rises about 3.2% to 181.8 MMT.

Prospects of bumper West African cocoa crop weigh on prices

January 7, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. March ICE NY cocoa futures (CCH26) were down 0.39% and March ICE London cocoa (CAH26) fell 0.72% to lows as favorable growing conditions in West Africa bolster expected February-March harvest in Ivory Coast and Ghana, according to producers and traders. Mondelez pointed to a cocoa pod count about 7% above the five-year average, with Ivory Coast's main crop underway and farmers optimistic on quality. Port shipments in marketing year through Jan 4 were 1.073 MMT, down 3.3% year on year, signaling tighter supplies. The potential addition of cocoa futures to the Bloomberg Commodity Index (BCOM) could attract about $2 billion in buying, underpinning a floor for prices amid dwindling inventories in US ports. ICCO cut its 2024/25 surplus; Rabobank trimmed 2025/26 surplus. EU deforestation law delay sustains near-term supply. Asia grindings and European grindings fell in Q3, weighing on demand.

Insider Buying Report: Lakeland Industries and Utz Brands on 1/7

January 7, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. Two executives made notable purchases in separate consumer-focused names on Monday and Tuesday. Lakeland Industries' President, CEO and Executive Chairman James M. Jenkins bought 1,127 shares of LAKE for $8.88 each, a $10,003 stake, following four prior buys in the last year totaling $73,081 at an average $14.72. The stock was down about 2.4% on Wednesday, intraday high near $9.39. In UTZ Brands (UTZ), EVP and Chief Legal Officer Theresa Robbins Shea purchased 702 shares for $9.86, worth $6,922, adding to three prior UTZ buys over the past year totaling $49,938 at an average $12.33. UTZ traded about 0.1% lower on the day. Insider buying can signal confidence, but does not guarantee future gains.

Wealthy Americans Bet Big on AI Stocks Amid Valuation Concerns

January 7, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. Seasoned investors are extending time horizons as they weigh AI-focused equities against lofty valuations. The S&P 500 has posted solid gains in 2023-2025, yet its forward P/E sits around 22.1, above its five- and ten-year averages, signaling a premium for growth and tech exposure. Tech now makes up about a third of the index, with 20 names delivering roughly half of its value, underscoring concentration risk but also the quality of ongoing earnings. A Motley Fool AI outlook shows strong investor confidence in long-run AI returns, especially among AI stock owners. Still, near-term results remain uncertain and depend on AI adoption and macro dynamics. As Kenneth Fisher notes, time in the market can justify high valuations when earnings compound over years, as with Nvidia, whose earnings growth supports its rich multiple.

Choice Hotels expands Ascend Collection in Canada; shares rise after Quebec rollout

January 7, 2026, 2:44 PM EST. Choice Hotels International CHH plans six new upscale properties under its Ascend Collection in Québec, to open in early 2026, after fully integrating Choice Hotels Canada. The move comes as the stock rose about 5.3% in yesterday's trading. The expansion strengthens the Montréal and resort footprint and underpins broader loyalty program engagement; the portfolio addition aligns with a 7% year-over-year rise in RevPAR (revenue per available room) in Q3 2025. The six properties total roughly 650 rooms across urban, boutique and resort formats, including Montreal hotels with unique features. Management also targets aggressive international growth-EMEA, the Caribbean and Latin America, and Asia-Pacific-with a plan to double international EBITDA by 2027. In the US, growth relies on brand conversions via Everhome Suites and MainStay Suites.