Live Cattle and Feeder Cattle Futures Rally on Tuesday
February 18, 2026, 3:17 AM EST. Live cattle futures surged $2.95 to $3.40 by midday Tuesday, supported by cash sales rising to $208 in Kansas and northern trade hitting $210-$212. Feeder cattle futures climbed $2.55 to $3, with January contracts up 92 cents ahead of expiration. USDA reported a slight decline in federally inspected cattle slaughter to 114,000 head Monday, nearly 9,000 fewer than last year. Boxed beef prices also strengthened, with Choice boxes up $2.46 to $332.54 per hundredweight. The weekly Oklahoma City feeder cattle auction saw firm sales, some rising as much as $10. Futures reflect bullish sentiment as demand and prices push higher across cattle markets Tuesday.
Live Cattle and Feeder Cattle Futures Rally on Tuesday
February 18, 2026, 3:16 AM EST.Live cattle futures surged between $2.30 and $3.47, marking a strong start to the week. Meanwhile, feeder cattle futures rose $4.35 to $4.85, with the CME Feeder Cattle Index increasing to $376.07 as of Feb 16. Cash cattle trade showed slow activity with prices steady around $245-$249 depending on region. The USDA reported cattle slaughter at 115,000 head on Tuesday, slightly above last week yet below last year. Wholesale boxed beef prices showed mixed results, with Choice boxes down $3.01 to $364.76 and Select boxes declining $1.01 to $360.22. Recent auctions indicated stable to higher prices for feeder steers and heifers amid steady demand.
Euronext Dublin Issues Notice to ARLA FOODS FINANCE A/S Noteholders
February 18, 2026, 2:48 AM EST.Euronext Dublin has issued a notice to noteholders of ARLA FOODS FINANCE A/S. The notification pertains to debt securities listed on the exchange. Details were distributed through official channels including ICE Data Services and FactSet. The announcement highlights ongoing compliance with market disclosure requirements, ensuring transparency for investors in ARLA Foods' financial instruments. This follows standard regulatory practice to keep noteholders informed on relevant developments.
Pearson PLC completes £175 million share buyback tranche
February 18, 2026, 2:47 AM EST. Pearson PLC purchased 114,747 ordinary shares at an average price of 920.60 pence each on February 17, 2026, as part of its ongoing £350 million buyback programme announced in January. The shares will be cancelled, reducing the company's share capital. Citigroup Global Markets Limited executed the transactions on the London Stock Exchange, paying between 913.40 and 928.00 pence per share. This activity reflects Pearson's commitment to returning value to shareholders amid a structured capital management plan.
Is Zscaler (ZS) Undervalued Amid Share Price Weakness? A Closer Look
February 18, 2026, 2:46 AM EST.Zscaler's stock price has slid 19.6% over the past year, triggering debates on its valuation given its role in cloud security and zero trust tech. Despite recent dips, a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis pegs its intrinsic value at about $297.17, suggesting the current price of roughly $172.59 undervalues the company by approximately 41.9%. The DCF model forecasts cash flows out to 2030, emphasizing long-term value over short-term earnings. With a valuation score of 3 out of 6, Zscaler appears undervalued on select metrics but mixed overall. Its modest recent 0.9% weekly gain contrasts with sharp declines longer term. Investors should weigh Zscaler's promising cloud security positioning against ongoing market volatility and valuation nuances before deciding.
New Hope's Sales-Production Mix Signals Subtle Shift in Investment Outlook
February 18, 2026, 2:35 AM EST. New Hope Corporation (ASX:NHC) reported unaudited quarterly coal sales of 2.895 million tons and year-to-date sales of 5.571 million tons, slightly surpassing last year's 5.411 million tons. Saleable coal production for the quarter was 2.766 million tons, with year-to-date production at 5.458 million tons, marginally lower than prior periods. This sales-production mix indicates steady volumes but highlights ongoing exposure to coal price volatility and regulatory risks. The company remains on track with its FY2026 guidance of 10.2 to 11.5 million tons, generating projected A$2.2 billion revenue and A$520.5 million earnings by 2028. However, some analysts caution that downside risks warrant attention amid market uncertainties. Investors should consider these factors carefully when evaluating New Hope's fair value and growth potential.
Australian Shares Rise as NAB Hits Record High on Strong Q1 Results
February 18, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. The S&P/ASX 200 climbed 0.5% to 9,007, driven by National Australia Bank's (NAB) nearly 4% jump to a record high after a 16% rise in quarterly cash earnings. The financials sector rose 0.6%, reversing a three-day slide, while technology stocks soared 2.3%, led by Technology One's 8.2% gain. BlueScope Steel advanced 2.6% after an improved A$15 billion takeover bid, and CSL added 0.8% following a deal with Eli Lilly. Gold shares weakened as bullion prices fell amid easing geopolitical tensions, reducing safe-haven appeal. The market marked a third straight session of gains, balanced between strong financial and tech performance and headwinds from the gold sector.
Indian Markets Edge Lower As Sensex, Nifty Enter Consolidation Phase
February 18, 2026, 2:33 AM EST. Indian equity markets opened Wednesday with modest declines, as the BSE Sensex slipped about 124 points near 83,200 and the Nifty 50 hovered around 25,660-25,700, breaking a two-day rally. The information technology sector faced selling pressure, dragging key IT stocks down and limiting broader market gains. Despite this, metals and PSU banking stocks provided defensive support, preventing sharper drops. Analysts had suggested that holding above 25,700 could push Nifty towards 26,000, but early softness in IT counters weighed on sentiment. The ongoing India AI Summit is seen as a positive structural factor for the tech theme, said Enrich Money CEO R Ponmudi.
Lean Hog Futures Rally as USDA Reports Mixed Data
February 18, 2026, 2:32 AM EST. Lean hog futures rebounded Tuesday, with contracts rising up to $1.75 at midday. USDA's national base hog price was not reported Tuesday morning, while the CME Lean Hog Index increased by 13 cents to $87.06 on Feb 13. The pork carcass cutout value fell by $1.43 to $95.42 per hundredweight, with only the rib primal rising. Federally inspected hog slaughter for Monday hit 461,000 head, down 24,000 from last week and nearly 22,000 from last year. Managed money net long positions rose by 4,424 contracts to 133,281, according to CFTC data. Futures for April, May, and June contracts also showed gains, reflecting volatile market sentiment amid shifting supply numbers.
Soybean Prices Rise After Strong NOPA Crush Data and Export Growth
February 18, 2026, 2:31 AM EST. Soybeans gained 2 to 3 ¼ cents midday, supported by NOPA data showing 221.56 million bushels crushed in January, exceeding expectations by 10.57% year-on-year but slightly down from last month. Soybean oil stocks surged 49.07% above last year, causing weakness in soymeal and soy oil futures. Export inspections revealed shipments of 1.203 million metric tons, up 65.3% year-on-year with China leading imports. Managed money increased net long soybean futures positions by 94,316 contracts as of February 10. AgRural reported Brazil's soybean harvest at 21%, slower than last year's pace. March and May 2026 soybean contracts rose modestly amid these supply and demand signals, reflecting active market positioning in response to fundamentals.
REG – RNS Market Data and Reference Information Sources
February 18, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. This release highlights key market data providers and reference sources underpinning financial information services. Data is supplied by ICE Data Services, FactSet Research Systems, and the American Bankers Association's CUSIP database, essential for security identification. SEC filings, critical for regulatory transparency, are accessible through Quartr. TradingView contributes to real-time market charting and analysis. These integrations form the backbone of reliable securities data used by investors and institutions globally.
Wheat Futures Slide Amid Strong Export Competition and Growing Speculative Shorts
February 18, 2026, 2:21 AM EST. Wheat futures fell on Tuesday across key U.S. markets, with Chicago SRW down 6-7 cents and KC HRW and MPLS spring wheat also seeing losses. Export inspections revealed shipments of 375,402 metric tons last week, down 35% from the prior week but nearly 50% higher than a year ago. Japan led as the largest importer. Total shipments remain about 19% below last year's pace. Traders increased net short positions in Chicago and Kansas City wheat futures, signaling bearish sentiment. Russia's wheat crop estimate rose to 85.9 million metric tons, while EU soft wheat exports climbed 1.46 million metric tons above last year's level. The market responds to these supply-demand factors with declining prices across contracts.
Top UK Dividend Stocks To Watch in February 2026 Amid Market Uncertainty
February 18, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. With the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 under pressure from weak Chinese trade data, UK investors are turning to dividend stocks for stability and income. Leading picks include RS Group (3.14% yield) and OSB Group (5.64%). City of London Investment Group (8.3% yield) offers high payouts but with a payout ratio above 100%, indicating potential risk. ICG plc provides steadier dividends covered comfortably by earnings and cash flows, yielding 4.9%. These firms show varying dividend ratings and coverage, reflecting different risk profiles amid volatile market conditions. Strategic moves, like ICG's partnership with Amundi, aim to strengthen income streams. Dividend investing may help navigate the current economic uncertainty impacting UK equities.
Corn Futures Edge Lower as Export Shipments Decline and Brazil Crop Harvest Lags
February 18, 2026, 2:19 AM EST. Corn futures dipped 4 to 6 cents on Tuesday, with front-month contracts reflecting losses amid weaker export shipment figures. The USDA's Foreign Grain Inspection Service reported corn exports at 1.492 million metric tons for the week ending February 12, down 7.31% from the previous week and 8.06% below last year's level. Mexico led destinations, followed by Japan and Colombia. Marketing year exports have risen 44.36% year-over-year. Brazilian corn harvesting is trailing last year's pace, with first crop harvest at 22% complete versus 29% previously. Managed money speculators reduced their net short positions by 20,576 contracts as of February 10. Nearby cash corn prices fell 4.5 cents to $3.94 3/4 per bushel.
Cotton Futures Decline Amid Rising Short Positions and Lower Adjusted World Price
February 18, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Cotton futures slipped 30 to 50 points on Tuesday, pressured by increased speculative short positions and a drop in the Adjusted World Price to 49.39 cents per pound. Managed money held a net short position of 75,602 contracts, rising by 3,856 contracts in the week ending Feb. 10. ICE certified cotton stocks grew by 3,974 bales to 110,014. The Cotlook A Index remained steady at 73.85 cents, while sales on The Seam reached 4,895 bales at an average of 56.79 cents per pound. Nearby Mar '26 cotton futures fell to 61.61 cents. Concurrently, crude oil futures fell 70 cents to $62.19 per barrel and the U.S. dollar index eased to 97.190.
Wheat Prices Drop Amid Mixed Export Stats and Crop Updates
February 18, 2026, 2:17 AM EST. Wheat futures fell across all U.S. markets Tuesday, with Chicago SRW down 6 to 7 cents and KC HRW dropping 3 to 4 cents. The USDA's Export Inspections report showed wheat shipments at 375,402 metric tons for the week ending Feb. 12, down over 35% from the previous week but nearly 50% higher than last year's comparable period. Despite this, total shipments for the marketing year lag 19% behind last year. Crop forecasts showed Russian wheat production rising to 85.9 million metric tons, while EU soft wheat exports also increased year-over-year. March CBOT wheat closed at $5.38 per bushel, reflecting market caution amid contrasting export volumes and supply projections.
Lean Hog Futures Rise Amid Mixed Pork Cutout Values
February 18, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. Lean hog futures edged up by 7 cents to $2.20 on Tuesday, with some deferred contracts falling between 7 and 22 cents. The national average base hog price gained $1.09, reaching $82.04. The CME Lean Hog Index rose 12 cents to $85.55 as of Oct. 25. USDA's pork cutout value decreased by 88 cents to $101.07 per hundredweight, with loin and picnic primals notably lower. Hog slaughter estimates remained steady at 488,000 head, matching last week and exceeding last year's same period by 10,943 head. December, February, and April hog contracts all recorded gains, signaling mixed but overall bullish momentum in the hog market.
Amaroq Ltd. to Transition to LSE Main Market and Voluntarily Delist from TSX Venture Exchange
February 18, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. Amaroq Ltd., a Greenland-focused mining development firm, announced plans to voluntarily delist from the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) effective March 19, 2026. The company cited low trading volumes in Canada as financially unjustifiable for maintaining the TSXV listing. Instead, Amaroq will focus on trading its shares on AIM, Nasdaq Iceland, and OTCQX. Concurrently, Amaroq intends to upgrade its listing to the London Stock Exchange's (LSE) Main Market to gain broader institutional support and access to index funds. Citigroup Global Markets Limited has been appointed as sponsor for this transition, expected to complete within 2026. Shareholders won't need to approve the delisting since alternative trading venues comply with TSXV rules.
Sensex, Nifty trade flat amid IT sector slump; Metal stocks lead gains
February 18, 2026, 2:09 AM EST. Indian equity markets opened mostly flat on Wednesday, with the Sensex down 27 points (0.03%) at 83,423 and the Nifty slipping 2 points (0.01%) to 25,722. The IT sector index fell sharply by 1.35%, weighing on broader sentiment. Contrastingly, midcap and smallcap stocks outperformed, with Nifty Midcap 100 and Nifty Smallcap 100 up 0.4% and 0.36%, respectively. Metal stocks led sectoral gains, climbing 1.20%. The banking index showed resilience, underpinned by private and select PSU banks, with Bank Nifty near key support levels. Market watchers anticipate a range-bound session ahead amid absence of fresh catalysts and cautious global cues. Asian markets remain closed for Lunar New Year holidays, limiting international influence. Foreign investors net purchased equities worth Rs 187 crore on February 17.
Brighthouse Financial (BHF) Undervalued Amid Aquarian Takeover Speculation
February 18, 2026, 2:08 AM EST. Brighthouse Financial (NYSE:BHF) closed at $63.91, showing mixed returns over various time frames including a 1.8% gain in the past year. Investors are assessing whether the current price reflects its intrinsic value amid market focus on life insurers' capital strength and product mix. Using an Excess Returns model incorporating book value and stable earnings power, BHF's intrinsic value estimates reach $186.16 per share, suggesting the stock is undervalued by approximately 65.7%. This significant gap implies that the market may not fully price in potential catalysts such as the rumored Aquarian takeover offer. Analysts use metrics like Price-to-Earnings (P/E) to gauge investor willingness to pay per dollar of earnings, informing valuation amid sector-specific risks and opportunities.
Axsome Therapeutics: Strong Gains but Is It Still Undervalued?
February 18, 2026, 2:07 AM EST. Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM) shares closed at $183.30, posting a 43.1% return in the past year and significant gains over three years. The biotech firm focuses on late-stage neuroscience therapies, contributing to rising investor interest. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model projects the stock's intrinsic value at $710.70, suggesting it trades at a 74.2% discount to its value, highlighting potential undervaluation despite recent price appreciation. The company currently reports negative free cash flow but optimistic estimates forecast over $1.2 billion in free cash flow by 2030. Analysts weigh this against broader U.S. biotech trends and ongoing commercial progress. Investors should consider this valuation amid biotech sector volatility and AXSM's evolving pipeline.
Cotton Futures Drop Amid Lower Crude Oil Prices and Rising US Dollar
February 18, 2026, 2:06 AM EST. Cotton futures fell between 45 and 60 points on Tuesday, pressured by broader market factors. Crude oil futures declined by 59 cents, settling at $62.30 per barrel. The US dollar index gained 0.206 points to 97.025, adding headwinds for commodity prices. The Seam reported sales of 4,895 bales on February 13, averaging 56.79 cents per pound, while the Cotlook A Index remained steady at 73.85 cents. Certified cotton stocks increased by 3,974 bales to 110,014. The USDA's Adjusted World Price was lowered by 39 points to 49.39 cents per pound, further weighing on the market. March, May, and July cotton contracts closed down 59, 49, and 45 points, respectively.
Charles Schwab (SCHW) Shares Show Undervaluation After Recent Declines
February 18, 2026, 2:05 AM EST. Charles Schwab's stock closed at $93.08, down 6.2% over the past week and 10.3% over 30 days, amid market concerns over interest rate sensitivity and earnings. Despite declines, its 1-year return stands at 15.6%, with long-term gains reaching 58.6% over five years. Valuation analysis using the Excess Returns model indicates an intrinsic value of $108.22, about 14% above the current price, suggesting the shares are undervalued. The model factors in a book value of $23.85 per share, an average return on equity of 21.13%, and stable earnings estimated at $6.59 per share. This implies Charles Schwab could rebound as investor expectations adjust. The stock's price-to-earnings ratio remains a key metric for assessing value considering earnings and growth prospects.
ASX Banking Stocks Thrive While Healthcare Faces Headwinds
February 18, 2026, 2:04 AM EST. The ASX reveals a mixed sector performance. Banking stocks demonstrate resilience and success amid economic uncertainties. Meanwhile, healthcare companies face struggles, with software stocks hit by AI disruption fears. Barrenjoey upgraded Pro Medicus to 'overweight,' citing optimism despite a challenging reporting day for software firms. Pro Medicus could rise 80% according to Refinitiv consensus target prices. CEO Dr. Sam Hupert remains confident in the company's pipeline. Conversely, Cochlear shares declined following their results, continuing a prolonged bearish trend as investors grow cautious about future opportunities in the stock.
Singapore Blue-Chips SIA, Keppel, ST Engineering: Long-Term Upside After Rally?
February 18, 2026, 2:03 AM EST. Singapore's blue-chip stocks – Singapore Airlines (SIA), Keppel, and ST Engineering – have climbed to multi-year highs amid recent rallies. SIA, trading near S$7.63, shows a normalized profit of S$239 million for 1H FY2025/26 after a strong FY2024/25 boosted by a one-off gain. Its healthy 5.4% dividend yield and solid balance sheet support exposure to global travel recovery, but risks from volatile passenger yields persist. Keppel's share price hit an all-time high at S$12.69, driven by a 39% YoY profit surge in FY2025, though shareholder profit dropped 16.1% due to accounting losses. Meanwhile, determining sustainable earnings and distinguishing cyclical from structural growth remain critical for investors evaluating continued upside amid stretched valuations.
Corn Futures Drop Amid Planting Slowdown and Weather Concerns
February 18, 2026, 2:02 AM EST. Corn futures fell 6 to 7 cents on Tuesday as planting progress in key U.S. states like Illinois and Indiana lagged behind the 5-year average. December new crop futures dropped 6.5 cents amid cautious bidding tied to a 2.24 soybean/corn price ratio. The national average cash corn price decreased by 6 cents to $4.48. Wet weather from the Plains to the Mississippi River threatens to slow planting further this week. Meanwhile, Brazilian and Argentine corn production forecasts rose to 125 million and 48 million metric tons, respectively, supporting supply outlooks. May and July 2025 contracts also declined, underscoring market caution amid mixed crop progress and improving South American yields.
Australian Shares Edge Higher as NAB Reaches Record; New Zealand Market Surges
February 18, 2026, 2:01 AM EST. Australian shares rose, boosted by National Australia Bank hitting a record high with 16% first-quarter cash earnings growth. The S&P/ASX 200 increased 0.5% to 9,007 points, extending gains to a third day. Despite strong bank earnings, investors remain cautious ahead of interest rate hikes from the Reserve Bank of Australia, concerned about asset quality and credit demand. In New Zealand, the central bank held rates at 2.25%, pledging continued accommodative policy, which lifted the S&P/NZX 50 by 1.7% to 13,247 points – its best day in over nine months. Miners saw mixed moves, with BHP slipping 0.9% after profit-taking, while BlueScope Steel rose 2.6% amid a potential A$15 billion takeover. Insurer Suncorp dropped 4.4% on disappointing half-year earnings. Oil producer Santos declined 0.6% post a sharper-than-expected profit fall.
Soybeans Hold Gains Amid Higher Crush and Export Data
February 18, 2026, 2:00 AM EST. Soybeans edged higher Tuesday with contracts rising up to 1 1/4 cents. The national average cash bean price gained 1 1/4 cents to $10.68 1/2. January soybean crush reached 221.56 million bushels (mbu), exceeding estimates and up 10.57% versus last year, despite a slight monthly dip. Soybean oil stocks surged 49.07% year-over-year. Export inspections showed shipments climbed 5.01% week-on-week to 1.203 million metric tons, 65.3% above last year, led by China. Brazil's harvest pace slowed to 21%, from 24% last year, according to AgRural. Futures edged higher across contracts, with March closing at $11.34 per bushel. Market signals point to increased demand and supply considerations amid shifting global crop conditions.
European Stocks Poised for Higher Open Amid Global Market Watch
February 18, 2026, 1:44 AM EST. European stocks are set to open higher Wednesday, with the U.K.'s FTSE up 0.2%, Germany's DAX 0.3%, France's CAC 40 0.4%, and Italy's FTSE MIB 0.3%. Investors focus on U.K. inflation data expected to cool to 3% from 3.4%, influencing Bank of England's interest rate decisions. Sterling and British bond yields dipped after Tuesday's employment and wage growth data. Key earnings include Glencore, BAE Systems, Orange, and Euronext. Asian markets gained despite holiday closures in China and others. U.S. futures are steady ahead of Federal Reserve minutes release and Friday's personal consumption expenditures (PCE) inflation report, Fed's preferred gauge of price changes.
SMAX Technical Analysis: Buy Near $19.80, Target $20.95, February 18, 2026
February 18, 2026, 1:43 AM EST.Hamilton U.S. Equity YIELD MAXIMIZER ETF (SMAX:CA) shows mixed signals on February 18. The short-term rating is "Strong," urging a buy near $19.80 with a profit target at $20.95 and a stop loss set at $19.70 to manage risk. Conversely, mid-term momentum is "Weak," suggesting caution. The long-term outlook remains "Strong," indicating potential for sustained gains. Traders can consider shorting near $20.95, targeting $19.80, with a stop loss at $21.05. These AI-generated signals provide tactical entry and exit points but require active monitoring due to fluctuating mid-term strength.
Sugar Prices Rise Amid Demand Recovery Despite Global Surplus Concerns
February 18, 2026, 1:20 AM EST. Sugar prices showed mixed moves as March New York world sugar futures rose 1.02%, while May London ICE white sugar declined 0.57%. Prices remain above last week's 5.25-year lows after a prolonged slump due to persistent global surplus fears. Industry analysts from Czarnikow, Green Pool, and StoneX forecast a global sugar surplus between 2.7 million and 4.7 million metric tonnes in 2025/26 and a decline in surplus for 2026/27. Brazilian and Indian sugar production is up, with India boosting exports after strong monsoon seasons and government export approvals. The price uptick reflects emerging demand, especially post-Ramadan restocking in Asia, alongside expectations that weak prices may temper future production, offering some support to sugar markets.
MAFS Australia's Brook Crompton Shares Major Spoiler About Marriage and Relationship Updates
February 18, 2026, 1:13 AM EST. MAFS Australia contestant Brook Crompton revealed she's pregnant and engaged to her ex, Harry, confirming her split from co-star Chris Nield. After a difficult match with Chris, marked by a rocky start and controversial past comments, Brook left the experiment early. She reunited with Harry soon after, restarting their relationship. The development unfolds as the latest series airs, offering fans a dramatic insight beyond the show. Brook's experience highlights the realities of reality TV matchmaking, suggesting her pairing with Chris was driven by TV ratings. Their story brings fresh attention to personal journeys outside the screen spotlight.
Sectors on UK Stock Market Vulnerable to AI Disruption
February 18, 2026, 1:12 AM EST. Artificial intelligence (AI) concerns are spreading beyond U.S. tech giants, impacting UK stocks like wealth management firms St James's Place and AJ Bell, hit by AI-driven efficiency fears. AI tools from startups like Altruist and Anthropic are stirring market volatility by targeting financial advice and legal services. Insurance companies also face pressure as AI platforms enter price comparison spaces. Deutsche Bank's AI report identifies data-intensive sectors with repetitive tasks, including information technology, finance, customer service, manufacturing, logistics, and media, as most exposed to disruption. Despite a recent share price rebound, uncertainty remains over which industries might next experience AI-related market jitters.
Indian IT Stocks Fall as US Tech Weakness and AI Fears Persist
February 18, 2026, 12:59 AM EST. Indian IT stocks including Infosys, TCS, Wipro, HCL Tech, and others dropped on February 18, reflecting declines in U.S. tech shares amid growing AI-related concerns. The Nifty IT index fell 1.5%, with Persistent Systems, Infosys, and LTI Mindtree among those losing more than 2%. The sector is down 21% in the past year, pressured by fears that rapid advances in artificial intelligence could disrupt traditional IT services and slow client deal-making. Despite a brief recovery on February 17 linked to Infosys's collaboration with AI firm Anthropic and AI Summit 2026's collaborative outlook, selling resumed. Market experts warn that AI-led disruption poses a long-term risk to the outsourcing business model that underpins Indian IT growth, making upcoming deal flows critical to watch.
Top Asian Penny Stocks to Watch in February 2026
February 18, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. February 2026 highlights varied performances in Asian markets. Japan's surge contrasts with modest gains in China ahead of Lunar New Year. Penny stocks, representing smaller firms, attract investors seeking affordability and growth. Notable picks include Lever Style (SEHK:1346), Asia Medical and Agricultural Laboratory (SET:AMARC), and TK Group (SEHK:2283), all rated with strong six-star financial health scores. Plan B Media (SET:PLANB), with a THB21.25 billion market cap, shows stable finances and earnings growth despite industry declines, projecting a 37.3% price increase. Sea Oil Public Company operates fuel and lubricant sales in Thailand and abroad with a THB2.72 billion valuation. These stocks reveal potential amid economic shifts, with full details available via specialized screeners tracking over 900 entities.
Australian Shares Rise on Oil Price Gains; Netwealth, Superloop Earnings Beat Expectations
February 18, 2026, 12:57 AM EST.Australian shares edged higher, with the S&P/ASX 200 closing up 0.54% at 9,007, driven by rising oil prices amid hopes of easing US-Iran tensions. The Australian government approved a 4.41% increase in health insurance premiums starting April, outpacing last year's 3.73% rise. Domestic data showed steady wage growth of 3.4% annually in the December quarter. Netwealth Group reported higher fiscal H1 adjusted earnings of AU$0.281 per share, up from AU$0.234, with total income rising to AU$193.8 million. Superloop swung to a profit of AU$0.0097 per share, with revenue increasing to AU$317.6 million. SGH and Steel Dynamics made a AU$15 billion revised offer to acquire BlueScope Steel, lifting respective shares modestly.
Economic Investment Trust (TSE:EVT) Stock Inches Up 0.1% with Dividend Announcement
February 18, 2026, 12:45 AM EST. Economic Investment Trust Limited (TSE:EVT) saw its stock price tick up 0.1% to C$24.70 on Tuesday, trading 300 shares, down 80% from its average daily volume. The company carries a market cap of C$138.81 million and a low price-to-earnings ratio of 0.48. It recently paid a quarterly dividend of $0.03 per share, translating to a 0.5% yield. The stock currently holds a Hold rating from analysts, although alternative investment opportunities have been highlighted by market watchers. EVT's strategy focuses on long-term capital appreciation and income through dividends.
Taiga Building Products Shares Rise 3% Amid Lower Volume on Toronto Exchange
February 18, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Taiga Building Products Ltd (TSE:TBL) shares climbed 3% to C$3.46 on Tuesday, despite a 51% drop in trading volume to 3,044 shares. The Canadian building products wholesaler, known for composite decking and engineered wood, holds a market capitalization of C$373.49 million with a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.44. Key financial ratios include a debt-to-equity of 21.99 and a current ratio of 3.63, indicating financial stability. The stock's 50-day and 200-day moving averages stand close at approximately C$3.49 and C$3.48. Taiga primarily earns revenue from Canada, followed by the United States. Analysts currently rate the stock as Hold, while some favor other picks.
Eni Shares Up 38% in One Year but Valuation Suggests Potential Undervaluation
February 18, 2026, 12:43 AM EST. Eni's (BIT:ENI) shares have surged 38% over the past year, closing at €18.13, reflecting strong market interest in integrated oil and gas companies amid evolving energy trends. Despite recent gains, a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) valuation indicates an intrinsic value of €34.05 per share, suggesting shares trade at a 46.8% discount and could be undervalued. Analysts project free cash flow growth through 2030, supporting this outlook. Eni scores 3 out of 6 on a valuation checklist. Investors weighing long-term risks and opportunities in the energy sector may find Eni's shares attractively priced despite recent rallies.
Andersons (ANDE) Q4 Earnings Beat Despite Lower Sales, Valuation Questioned
February 18, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. Andersons (ANDE) reported strong Q4 2025 earnings with higher net income and earnings per share despite lower sales, sparking investor interest. The stock has rallied recently, posting a 15.83% increase in 30 days and a 67.44% one-year total shareholder return. However, Andersons closed at $67.01, above its fair value estimate of $62.50, which considers future earnings, margins, and capital returns. Growth prospects hinge on fully owned ethanol plants and expanded export operations, but risks include increased debt and volatile ethanol and grain markets. The mixed outlook raises questions about whether the market is pricing in growth or if the stock is overvalued.
National Energy Services Reunited Shares Rally 155% in 1 Year: Is NESR Stock Still Undervalued?
February 18, 2026, 12:41 AM EST. National Energy Services Reunited (NESR) surged 155.8% over the past year, closing recently at $24.17 per share. Despite this, a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis estimates an intrinsic value of $51.14, indicating the stock may be undervalued by 52.7%. NESR's free cash flow projections show growth to $273 million by 2035, supporting this valuation. However, the company scores just 2 out of 6 on valuation checks, reflecting potential risks amid strong sector optimism. Investors are weighing the recent rapid gains against future growth prospects. The Price-to-Earnings ratio, a key metric for assessing earnings valuation, remains a critical factor as the market assesses NESR's growth potential and risk profile in the energy services sector.
Nvidia Shares Show Signs of Overvaluation After Multi-Year Rally
February 18, 2026, 12:27 AM EST. Nvidia's (NVDA) stock recently closed at $184.97, suffering modest declines over the past month and year despite a stellar multi-year performance with returns of approximately 8x over three years and 12x over five years. The semiconductor giant's shares, boosted by its leading role in graphics processing and AI hardware, come with mixed valuation signals. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis estimates Nvidia's intrinsic value at around $160.11, suggesting the stock is about 15.5% overvalued currently. Nvidia scores 2 out of 6 on valuation metrics, reflecting uneven investor optimism amid strong growth prospects. Analysts highlight the need to balance rapid growth expectations against the risk of paying a premium price. Investors should weigh these factors carefully when considering Nvidia at its current elevated price point.
Cameco Stock Shows Signs of Overvaluation After 127% One-Year Gain
February 18, 2026, 12:26 AM EST. Cameco (TSX:CCO) shares have surged 127% over the past year, closing recently at C$154.06. However, the stock has declined 3.7% over the last week and 4.9% in the past month, raising questions about its valuation. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis by Simply Wall St estimates an intrinsic value of C$126.99 per share, suggesting shares are approximately 21.3% overvalued. The uranium miner's strong price performance aligns with increased investor interest in nuclear power amid shifting energy policies and supply-demand dynamics. Despite significant gains over three and five years, Cameco scores 0 out of 6 on valuation metrics, indicating potential risks. Investors should weigh growth prospects and risks carefully, given the current elevated price relative to projected cash flows and earnings.
Stocks Rebound Led by Apple, Airlines Amid Mixed Economic Data and Fed Caution
February 18, 2026, 12:25 AM EST.U.S. stock indexes showed a mixed close Tuesday as the S&P 500 bounced back from a 1.5-week low aided by Apple shares surging over 3%. Apple announced a March 4 product launch with multiple new devices expected. Airline stocks gained, supporting the broader market. The Nasdaq 100 slipped to a 2.75-month low amid persistent AI fears about near-term profitability and economic disruption. Tuesday's economic data was mixed: the NAHB housing market index fell unexpectedly, while the Empire manufacturing survey declined less than expected. Federal Reserve officials maintained a hawkish stance, signaling steady interest rates for now but leaving the door open for cuts if inflation heats down. Investors are eyeing upcoming earnings and key economic indicators including capital goods orders, housing data, and the Fed's January meeting minutes.
Nike Faces UK Market Share Decline Amid Rising Competition, Key Signals for Investors
February 18, 2026, 12:16 AM EST.Nike is reportedly losing market share in the UK sportswear market as rivals like Adidas capitalize on stronger value perception and trend-focused designs. The UK, a vital region for Nike's athletic footwear and apparel, shows consumers increasingly favoring fresh product styles and perceived value. This shift pressures Nike's brand strength and pricing power, reflected in its profit margin drop to 5.4% from 10% last year. Investors should monitor Nike's response in product innovation and marketing in the UK, as well as how earnings and dividends might be affected by intensifying competition. Nike's current share price sits about 17% below analyst targets, with shares trading above estimated fair value, indicating mixed signals on momentum and valuation.
Sensex, Nifty Open Flat as IT Stocks Slide; Infosys Drops 2.6%
February 18, 2026, 12:13 AM EST. India's benchmark indices opened flat on Wednesday, with S&P BSE Sensex rising 19.33 points to 83,470.29 and NSE Nifty50 up 12.50 points to 25,737.90. Gains in metal and banking shares were offset by losses in the IT sector. Infosys led declines, falling 2.64%, followed by Tech Mahindra and HCL Technologies. Dr. VK Vijayakumar of Geojit Investments cited better-than-expected Q3 earnings supporting market resilience but noted ongoing volatility and uncertainty in IT stocks. Kalyan Jewellers and Tata Steel were top gainers, up 3.39% and 2.39% respectively. Foreign institutional investors have been net buyers recently, signaling cautious optimism amid sector shifts.
Indian IT Stocks Drop Up to 3% Following Anthropic's Claude Sonnet 4.6 AI Launch
February 18, 2026, 12:12 AM EST.Indian IT stocks fell sharply on February 18, snapping a two-day gain due to fears of AI disruption triggered by Anthropic's release of Claude Sonnet 4.6. The Nifty IT index dropped 2.5%, with Persistent Systems and Infosys shares declining over 3% and nearly 3%, respectively. Other majors including Coforge, Tech Mahindra, HCL Technologies, Wipro, and TCS also saw losses between 2% and 3%. Anthropic's new AI model, touted as its most capable yet with enhanced coding and reasoning skills, sparked renewed concern among investors about the potential impact on traditional IT services. Following the launch, global tech giants like Cognizant and Accenture also experienced shares selloffs. Analysts from NAB highlighted ongoing AI-related uncertainty as a key source of market volatility in the sector.
Dollar Hits One-Week High as Hawkish Fed Comments Support Greenback
February 18, 2026, 12:10 AM EST. The dollar index (DXY00) climbed to a one-week high on Tuesday, buoyed by a weak euro and British pound, which hit one-week lows. Hawkish remarks from Federal Reserve officials, including Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee and Fed Governor Michael Barr, reinforced expectations of steady interest rates in the near term, supporting the dollar. Goolsbee noted elevated services inflation, while Barr indicated a likely pause in rate changes to assess data. The US manufacturing sector showed resilience as the Empire State survey dipped less than expected. Conversely, the US housing market index unexpectedly declined. The euro weakened on disappointing German economic growth expectations, while the yen recovered due to hawkish comments from a Bank of Japan official favoring a rate hike. Market swaps price minimal odds of imminent Fed cuts, spotlighting diverging central bank policies globally.
