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In seeking to track the performance of the S&P Biotechnology Select Industry Index (the index), the fund employs a sampling strategy. It generally invests substantially all, but at least 80%, of its total assets in the securities comprising the index. The index represents the biotechnology segment of the S&P Total Market Index (S&P TMI).

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Trump&#39;s proposed 25% tariffs on auto, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical imports have rattled markets and could affect ETFs with heavy exposure to these sectors.

Trade War Redux: These ETFs Due For Bumpy Ride Thanks To Trump Tariffs On Auto, Pharma, Chip Imports

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Investors may be underestimating Trump&#39;s potential push for fiscal discipline, making long-term bonds and rate-sensitive sectors attractive bets.

&#39;Buy Long Duration Bonds,&#39; Says Bank Of America Strategist: 4 ETFs To Watch As Trump&#39;s Deficit Fight Unfolds

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Bird flu has severely impacted poultry farms and cattle herds across 16 states, marking the worst outbreak of its kind.

Bird Flu Sparks Vaccine Stock Surge: ETFs To Watch As H5N1 Outbreak Intensifies

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The Federal Reserve&#39;s final meeting of the year has historically caused significant moves in 20 ETFs. A rate cut is expected, but the focus is on the Fed&#39;s forward guidance and projections.

20 ETFs Primed For Unusually Big Swings On Fed Meeting Days


The biotech sector recently experienced a sharp reversal following a failed breakout attempt post-election. While most areas of the market surged to new heights after Donald Trump’s election win on November 5,

Is Biotech&#39;s Bull Run Over? Examining Election Impacts

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As a new regime and phase begin for the market and economy, after the FED cut interest rates by a surprising 50bps last Wednesday, several new opportunities and sector bull and bear markets might begin. 
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June saw gains in the U.S. stock market, with tech and biotech leading the way. Semiconductor ETFs saw strong inflows, while utilities lagged.

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Investors are scrambling to assess the potential fallout of yet <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tariffs">another tectonic trade decision</a>. 
What Happened: President Donald Trump plans to impose a 25% levy on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43805852/trump-shakes-global-trade-with-25-auto-chip-and-pharma-tariffs-announcement-asian-stocks-pare-their-five-day-rally">auto, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical imports</a>,
This move could have far-reaching consequences for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">ETFs with heavy exposure to these sectors</a>, particularly those tracking automakers, chipmakers, and biotech firms.
Trump's protectionist stance triggered an immediate market response across the global markets. Asian stocks retreated after a five-day rally, with the MSCI Asia Pacific Index slipping, particularly affecting Japanese automakers like Toyota Motor Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TM#NYSE">TM</a>).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/02/43795579/warren-buffett-unfazed-by-trumps-tariff-threats-oracle-of-omaha-bets-on-mexico-beer">Warren Buffett Unfazed By Trump&#8217;s Tariff Threats: Oracle Of Omaha Bets On Mexico, Beer</a>
Automakers: The U.S. imported around 8 million passenger cars and light trucks last year, comprising 50% of total vehicle sales, according to a report by Wall Street Journal. A 25% tariff would increase vehicle prices, impact supply chains, and hurt companies dependent on overseas manufacturing. 
Here are a few ETFs likely to take a hit:
<ul>
<li>Global X Autonomous &amp; Electric Vehicles ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRIV#NASDAQ">DRIV</a>): Fairly exposed to Toyota, Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), and Ford (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>), this fund could face turbulence as trade tensions mount.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>First Trust NASDAQ Global Auto Index Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CARZ#NASDAQ">CARZ</a>): Tracks major global automakers, including BMW, Honda, and General Motors (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>), which rely on imported parts. The ETF also has significant exposure to Toyota and Tesla and allocates 46% of its assets to overseas stocks. That places it in a precarious position amid escalating tariff situations.</li>
</ul>
Chips: Trump also declared that sectoral tariffs on semiconductors would start at "25% or higher", escalating further over time. This comes as the U.S. considers a 100% tariff on Taiwanese semiconductors, an industry heavily reliant on TSMC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>).
<ul>
<li>iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>) – With Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), and Broadcom (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) among its top holdings, this fund is exposed to volatility stemming from supply chain disruptions.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>) – Heavily weighted towards TSMC, Intel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>), and Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), making it vulnerable to any tariff escalation.</li>
</ul>
Pharma: The pharmaceutical sector is also caught in the crosshairs, with Trump hinting at escalating tariffs beyond 25% over the year. This could upend drug pricing, R&amp;D costs, and supply chain dynamics for major biopharma companies.
<ul>
<li>iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>): Tracks major drugmakers like Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), and Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), all of which could see higher costs.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>): While biotech firms often have global R&amp;D operations, increased tariffs could disrupt access to imported drug components.</li>
</ul>
Why It Matters: Trump has long voiced concerns over U.S. automotive exports being treated unfairly abroad. In his first term, he threatened a similar 25% car tariff but ultimately backed down.
For ETF investors, volatility is back on the table. Those holding funds exposed to autos, chips, and pharmaceuticals must brace for a bumpy ride. While Trump believes the move will bring manufacturing back home, the short-term pain could be severe.
The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. companies may receive a phase-in period, with tariffs increasing over the course of the year.
What's Next: Markets will be watching closely as April 2 (when auto tariffs are expected to kick in) approaches. Any delays or modifications to the tariff plan could shift investor sentiment. 
For now, ETF traders should keep an eye on sectoral rotation, hedge exposure where necessary, and prepare for the potential impact of another round of trade wars.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/02/43794873/vanguard-overtakes-state-street-as-top-etf-provider-3-funds-in-focus">Vanguard Overtakes State Street As Top ETF Provider: 3 Funds In Focus</a></li>
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Investors may be underestimating Donald Trump&#8216;s potential push for fiscal discipline, making long-term bonds and rate-sensitive sectors an attractive bet, according to Bank of America&#8217;s chief <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/expert-ideas">investment strategist Michael Hartnett. </a>
In his flagship &#8216;The Flow Show&#8217; report published Friday, Hartnett shifted to a bullish stance on bonds, stressing that the yield spike seen in recent months has created an opportunity. 
&#8220;20-year corporate bonds now yielding 6.3%, pension funds would be looking to park some of those gains in bonds,&#8221; he said, recommending investors &#8220;buy long duration bonds.&#8221;
Hartnett indicated the case for duration bonds – as commonly tracked by the iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLT#NASDAQ">TLT</a>) – is strengthening as U.S. government spending slows, the Federal Reserve keeps a cautious stance on inflation, and yields approach peak levels.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Is The Bond Bear Market Peaking?</h3>
The past two years have been brutal for fixed-income investors. 
Higher-for-longer interest rates and rising deficits crushed bond prices, and since the Federal Reserve's 100-basis-point interest rate cuts, bonds have remained the worst-performing asset class. 
Yet Hartnett sees the tide turning.
Historically, rolling 10-year returns from U.S. Treasuries have never been negative over the past 90 years. The market has reached what he calls the &#8220;peak in &#8216;anything but bonds&#8217; trade of the 2020s.&#8221;
The technical backdrop also suggests stabilization. The 30-year Treasury yield has hit a double top at 5%, a level Hartnett believes represents strong resistance.
If yields retreat toward 4%, a diversified low-risk bond portfolio—comprised of Treasuries, investment-grade debt, high-yield bonds, and emerging market credit—could generate 11%-12% annualized returns, Hartnett highlighted.
A higher-risk allocation, with greater exposure to junk bonds and preferred securities, could yield up to 15%.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Fiscal Shift </h3>
As Hartnett highlighted, the U.S. budget deficit has risen to $7.3 trillion, fueling a 50% surge in nominal GDP, with government spending contributing significantly to economic growth.
Yet, according to the expert with the Fed prioritizing inflation control and Trump likely pushing for spending cuts, deficits could shrink, reducing upward pressure on yields. 
&#8220;We say Trump&#8217;s need for &#8216;smaller government&#8217; = &#8216;twin peak&#8217; in 5% bond yields,&#8221; Hartnett said.
Scott Bessent, Trump's nominee for Treasury Secretary, made it clear during his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday that tackling government spending <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43041207/5-things-investors-need-to-know-about-scott-bessents-economic-policies-as-he-faces-senate-grilling-for-treasury-job">will be a top priority.</a>
&#8220;We have a spending problem,&#8221; he said, emphasizing the need for significant reductions in government outlays.
Bessent indicated runaway spending as a key reason he joined the Trump campaign, signaling his commitment to aggressive fiscal tightening. 
&#8220;One of the things that got me out from behind my desk and my quiet life in this campaign was the thought that this spending is out of control,&#8221; Bessent said.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bond Market's Attractive Risk-Reward Profile</h3>
At current levels, the bond market presents what Hartnett describes as a &#8220;very good&#8221; risk-reward profile. 
A scenario where yields drop 100 basis points (1 percentage point) could generate strong returns, while even a rise in yields may not severely dent total performance. 
With yields near 5%, the worst may be over for bonds, according to Hartnett&#8217;s calculations. 
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Portfolio Type</th>
<th>Current Yield (%)</th>
<th>Duration</th>
<th>Convexity</th>
<th>1-Year Return (If Yields Drop 100bps)</th>
<th>2-Year Return (If Yields Drop 100bps)</th>
<th>1-Year Return (If Yields Rise 100bps)</th>
<th>2-Year Return (If Yields Rise 100bps)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Low-risk bond portfolio</td>
<td>5.7%</td>
<td>6.5</td>
<td>1.1</td>
<td>12%</td>
<td>17%</td>
<td>-1.0%</td>
<td>5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>High-risk bond portfolio</td>
<td>7.5%</td>
<td>7.0</td>
<td>0.9</td>
<td>15%</td>
<td>22%</td>
<td>0.4%</td>
<td>8%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: Bank of America</figcaption></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Which Sector ETFs Stand To Benefit?</h3>
Investors looking to position for lower yields should consider rate-sensitive exchange-traded funds. 
Hartnett's report highlights opportunities in:
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Homebuilders ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XHB#NYSE">XHB</a>): Lower mortgage rates could revive housing demand.</li>
<li>Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>): Defensive, dividend-paying stocks tend to outperform in a falling rate environment.</li>
<li>Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>): Banks benefit from a steepening yield curve and deregulation.</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>): Growth stocks, including biotech, typically gain as borrowing costs decrease.</li>
</ul>
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42990155/5-yields-fuel-demand-treasury-etfs-despite-bond-market-pain-relief-rally">5% Yields Fuel Demand For Long-Dated Treasury ETFs Despite Bond Market Pain: Is A Relief Rally On The Horizon?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

'Buy Long Duration Bonds,' Says Bank Of America Strategist: 4 ETFs To Watch As Trump's Deficit Fight Unfolds

The U.S. reported its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/01/42854890/us-records-first-human-bird-flu-death-high-levels-of-respiratory-illnesses-vaccine-stocks-rally">first human death</a> from the H5 bird flu strain this week, causing a spike in vaccine developer stocks Moderna (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), Novavax (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVAX#NASDAQ">NVAX</a>), CureVac (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVAC#NASDAQ">CVAC</a>) and Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>).
Vaccine production efforts are ramping up as health officials monitor the outbreak closely. In<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> an update </a>on Monday, CDC said there have been 66 confirmed cases in the U.S. in the 2024 outbreak. 
CDC said the public risk remains low. Bird flu has severely impacted poultry farms and cattle herds across 16 states, marking the worst outbreak of its kind.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42851023/why-novavax-nvax-stock-is-rising">Why Novavax (NVAX) Stock Is Rising</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Vaccine Providers in the Limelight</h3>
In the U.S., vaccines against H5N1 are already stockpiled. Approved shots include those from Sanofi (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNY#NASDAQ">SNY</a>), CSL Seqirus, and ID Biomedical Corporation of Quebec, a subsidiary of GlaxoSmithKline (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>), which collectively secured $72 million in funding from the U.S. health department in October to boost the production of bird flu vaccines. These traditional vaccines, developed years ago, target older H5N1 strains but are expected to offer some protection.
Moderna, backed by $176 million from the U.S. government's BARDA, is working on an updated mRNA H5N1 vaccine. Other players, including Pfizer and GSK (in collaboration with CureVac), are testing similar candidates.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ETFs in Focus</h3>
For investors who want to play the trend but are wary of choosing individual biotech stocks, here are three ETFs that offer diversified exposure to the biotech companies leading the vaccine efforts. With a mix of traditional and mRNA vaccine developers in focus, these funds could benefit as the world prepares for a potential bird flu pandemic.
iShares Genomics Immunology and Healthcare ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IDNA#NYSE">IDNA</a>) tracks the NYSE FactSet Global Genomics and Immuno Biopharma Index, and has already gained 2.5% so far this year. The fund has an expense ratio of 0.47%, and $129.97 million in assets under management (AUM). The fund has currently invested 4.48% of its assets in Moderna. Sanofi, GSK and Novavax are also part of its portfolio of 51 equity holdings.
First Trust Nasdaq Pharmaceuticals ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTXH#NASDAQ">FTXH</a>) derives its investment strategy from the Nasdaq US Benchmark Index, and has an expense ratio of 0.60%. Pfizer is one of its top holdings, with 7.28% of assets allocated to it.
SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) mirrors the S&amp;P&nbsp;Biotechnology Select Industry&nbsp;Index, and charges a 0.35% expense ratio. Out of its present AUM of $6.37 billion, Moderna holds 2.58%. Almost 100% of its holdings are exposed to the biotechnology sector, with only about 0.04% invested in the pharmaceutical sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bird Flu Menace </h3>
The bird flu scare in humans ratcheted higher in late 2024 when a 13-year-old girl in Canada fell critically ill with H5N1 and required a ventilator. Around the same time, the U.S. reported its first severe case in an elderly patient in Louisiana.
Health experts warn that vigilance is key to preventing mutations that could trigger a pandemic. While the technology to develop vaccines quickly is available, governments may need to fund large-scale clinical trials in advance to ensure rapid distribution in case of a health emergency.
Read Next:
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Photo: Shutterstock.

As markets brace for the Federal Reserve's final policy meeting of the year, scheduled at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, Goldman Sachs highlighted 20 exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that have historically shown outsized <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/federal-reserve">moves around Fed decision days</a>.
While a 25-basis-point rate cut to a target range of 4.25%-4.50% is widely anticipated, the market's focus is on the Fed's forward guidance, particularly the Summary of Economic Projections (SEP) and the updated &#8220;dot plot.&#8221;
Following December's expected cut, Goldman Sachs projects a more measured pace of easing next year, forecasting rate cuts in March, June, and September, with the terminal rate seen at 3.50%-3.75%.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42554114/all-eyes-on-december-fed-meeting-as-traders-await-interest-rate-projections">All Eyes On December Fed Meeting As Traders Await Interest Rate Projections</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Market Dynamics Around Fed Days</h3>
U.S. equity markets have displayed strong short-term gains during Fed meeting weeks in 2024. 
Investors employing a simple strategy of buying the S&amp;P 500 index at market close before a Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) announcement and selling at close the following day have captured median returns of 1.1% across the past seven meetings.
Yet those extending the trade horizon to 15 sessions post-Fed meeting have enjoyed significantly larger average gains of 3.29%, more than double the short-term returns. Notably, every Fed meeting this year has resulted in positive 15-day returns.
"We observe that U.S. banking ETFs, such as SPDR S&amp;P Bank ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KBE#NYSE">KBE</a>) and SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>), have seen unusually large moves on FOMC days since 2022" Goldman analysts wrote in a recent note.
For bond-focused investors, the report highlights consistent post-meeting gains in high-yield and investment-grade ETFs like iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HYG#NYSE">HYG</a>) and iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LQD#NYSE">LQD</a>).
Meanwhile, energy-focused ETFs, such as the United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>), have seen negative reactions. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ETFs Showing Heightened Fed-Day Moves</h3>
Here's Goldman Sachs' list of 20 ETFs with the largest absolute moves – which include both positive and negative swing – on FOMC days:
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ETF Name</th>
<th>Focus</th>
<th>Average Absolute Move on FOMC since 2022</th>
<th>Average Absolute Move (Last 3 FOMC events)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF </td>
<td>Regional Banking</td>
<td>2.5%</td>
<td>1.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>)</td>
<td>Semiconductor</td>
<td>2.4%</td>
<td>3.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>)</td>
<td>Semiconductor</td>
<td>2.4%</td>
<td>3.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPDR S&amp;P Bank ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KBE#NYSE">KBE</a>)</td>
<td>US Large Banks</td>
<td>2.2%</td>
<td>1.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>)</td>
<td>Biotech</td>
<td>2.0%</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United States Oil Fund </td>
<td>Oil</td>
<td>1.9%</td>
<td>2.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>)</td>
<td>Technology</td>
<td>1.9%</td>
<td>2.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Silver Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SLV#NYSE">SLV</a>)</td>
<td>Silver</td>
<td>1.7%</td>
<td>2.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>)</td>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>1.7%</td>
<td>1.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>)</td>
<td>Discretionary</td>
<td>1.6%</td>
<td>1.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>)</td>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>1.5%</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>)</td>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>1.2%</td>
<td>0.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOO#NYSE">VOO</a>)</td>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>1.2%</td>
<td>0.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>)</td>
<td>Financial</td>
<td>1.1%</td>
<td>0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPDR Gold Shares (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>)</td>
<td>Gold</td>
<td>0.9%</td>
<td>1.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares J.P. Morgan USD Emerging Markets Bond ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EMB#NASDAQ">EMB</a>)</td>
<td>EM Bond</td>
<td>0.8%</td>
<td>0.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF </td>
<td>HY Corp Bond</td>
<td>0.6%</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF </td>
<td>IG Corp Bond</td>
<td>0.6%</td>
<td>0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares 7-10 Year Treasury Bond ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEF#NASDAQ">IEF</a>)</td>
<td>7-10 Year Treasury</td>
<td>0.6%</td>
<td>0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares TIPS Bond ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TIP#NYSE">TIP</a>)</td>
<td>TIPS Bond</td>
<td>0.5%</td>
<td>0.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Average</td>
<td></td>
<td>1.5%</td>
<td>1.3%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Check Out: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42539116/fed-meetings-made-stock-traders-richer-in-2024-could-wednesday-bring-last-big-rally">Fed Meetings Made Stock Traders Richer In 2024: Could Wednesday Bring Last Big Rally?</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

JOET

Live On CNBC, Joe Terranova Announces Sold SPDR Series Trust SPDR S&P Biotech ETF

To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://thearorareport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-11-18_08h07_41-scaled.jpg" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Trump Trade</h3>
Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/chart-analysis-stock-trump-tesla-dogecoin-xbi-mc-11182024">click here</a> for an enlarged chart comparing SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) to Dogecoin to United States Dollar (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>The chart shows that biotech XBI has lost 5.35% since Trump's election.&nbsp; Companies in this ETF are producing innovative life saving drugs, employ brilliant scientists, own significant intellectual property, and are often bought out at large premiums.</li>
<li>The chart shows that Dogecoin has gained 48.78% since Trump's election.&nbsp; Dogecoin was initially developed as a joke.&nbsp; At one time, it was endorsed by Elon Musk; its name is the same as the acronym of Trump's Department of Government Efficiency.&nbsp; The main use of Dogecoin is speculation by the meme crowd.&nbsp; Dogecoin has an active meme crowd community behind it.</li>
<li>The contrast between the performance of XBI and Dogecoin shown on the chart is emblematic of, in large part, what investors are buying and selling in the wake of Trump's re-election.</li>
<li>On top of investors rushing into speculative assets, sentiment is extremely positive.&nbsp; Historically, extremely positive sentiment is a contrary indicator.&nbsp; In plain English, it means sell.&nbsp; As we have previously stated, sentiment is not a precise timing indicator.</li>
<li>In spite of all the warning signals, The Arora Report call remains to buy the dips.&nbsp; There are two main reasons:
<ul>
<li>There is an old saying on Wall Street that no one has ever been fired for losing clients' money.&nbsp; However, money managers get fired for lagging far behind their benchmarks.&nbsp; No money manager, irrespective of his/her view of the market, wants to commit career suicide by not chasing the market at the year end. Bearish money managers who have missed out on this rally are likely to buy the dips and chase the stock market into the year end.</li>
<li>Right now, hopium is at an extreme.&nbsp; There is nothing in the way of hopium.&nbsp; Since Trump is not yet president, there is no reality to confront hopium.&nbsp; Right now, the momo crowd is buying based on the best case of all of the positives that may come out of Trump's policies, and they are ignoring all of the negatives.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The plan is to start taking profits on new buys before hopium meets reality between Christmas and Trump's inauguration.&nbsp;</li>
<li>As a note of caution, this is not a call for wholesale buying.&nbsp; This is a call to buy on the margin based on the protection band.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Trump's transition team is starting the work to help those who helped Trump get elected.&nbsp; An example is the Trump team wanting to change the rules around self-driving cars in the U.S. to help Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>).&nbsp; Musk has been a big supporter of Trump.&nbsp; Over a period of time, expect many such moves from Trump's team.&nbsp; As a full disclosure, The Arora Report gave a signal to buy TSLA after Trump's win.&nbsp; The trade has been nicely profitable.&nbsp; The system has also triggered a signal for a trade around position in TSLA, but publication of the signal may be delayed because TSLA stock has gapped up significantly.</li>
<li>Trump has appointed Chris Wright as the next Department of Energy Secretary.&nbsp; Wright is the CEO of Liberty Energy Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LBRT#NYSE">LBRT</a>).&nbsp; Liberty Energy is engaged in fracking. Wright is also on the board of smart modular reactor company Oklo Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OKLO#NYSE">OKLO</a>) that is backed by OpenAI founder Sam Altman.&nbsp; Money is flowing into gas and nuclear stocks on Wright's appointment.</li>
<li>The most important event for the market this week is NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) earnings that will be released on Wednesday after the close.&nbsp; This morning, NVDA is seeing aggressive selling because of a report of Blackwell chips heating up in data centers.</li>
<li>In the early trade, retail investors are aggressively buying Trump stocks based on the weekend pump.&nbsp; Professional investors are front running retail investors as they hope to sell at higher prices to retail investors later.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h3>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), TSLA, and Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are neutral in Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) and Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are negative in NVDA.
In the early trade, money flows are positive in SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h3>
Investors can gain an edge by knowing money flows in SPY and QQQ.&nbsp; Investors can get a bigger edge by knowing when smart money is buying stocks, gold, and oil.&nbsp; The most popular ETF for gold is SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>).&nbsp; The most popular ETF for silver is iShares Silver Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SLV#NYSE">SLV</a>).&nbsp; The most popular ETF for oil is United States Oil ETF (ASCA:USO).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin</h3>
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) is range bound.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Protection Band And What To Do Now</h3>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.&nbsp; The proprietary protection band from The Arora Report is very popular.&nbsp; The protection band puts all of the data, all of the indicators, all of the news, all of the crosscurrents, all of the models, and all of the analysis in an analytical framework that is easily actionable by investors.
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp; The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
A protection band of 0% would be very bullish and would indicate full investment with 0% in cash.&nbsp; A protection band of 100% would be very bearish and would indicate a need for aggressive protection with cash and hedges or aggressive short selling.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp; When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h3>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of five year duration or less.&nbsp; Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever <a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter-benzinga">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.

On CNBC, Joe Terranova Announces Sold SPDR Series Trust SPDR S&P Biotech ETF

Designed to provide broad exposure to the Healthcare - Biotech segment of the equity market, the iShares Biotechnology ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ibb#NASDAQ">IBB</a>) is a passively managed exchange traded fund launched on 02/05/2001.
Passively managed ETFs are becoming increasingly popular with institutional as well as retail investors due to their low cost, transparency, flexibility and tax efficiency. They are excellent vehicles for long term investors.
Additionally, sector ETFs offer convenient ways to gain low risk and diversified exposure to a broad group of companies in particular sectors. Healthcare - Biotech is one of the 16 broad Zacks sectors within the Zacks Industry classification. It is currently ranked 4, placing it in top 25%.
<h2>Index Details</h2>
The fund is sponsored by Blackrock. It has amassed assets over $7.92 billion, making it one of the largest ETFs attempting to match the performance of the Healthcare - Biotech segment of the equity market. IBB seeks to match the performance of the Nasdaq Biotechnology Index before fees and expenses.
The ICE Biotechnology Index contains securities of NASDAQ listed companies that are classified as either biotechnology or pharmaceuticals.
<h2>Costs</h2>
Expense ratios are an important factor in the return of an ETF and in the long term, cheaper funds can significantly outperform their more expensive counterparts, other things remaining the same.
Annual operating expenses for this ETF are 0.45%, making it on par with most peer products in the space.
It has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 0.27%.
<h2>Sector Exposure and Top Holdings</h2>
While ETFs offer diversified exposure, which minimizes single stock risk, a deep look into a fund&#39;s holdings is a valuable exercise. And, most ETFs are very transparent products that disclose their holdings on a daily basis.
This ETF has heaviest allocation in the Healthcare sector--about 100% of the portfolio.
Looking at individual holdings, Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vrtx#NASDAQ">VRTX</a>) accounts for about 9.31% of total assets, followed by Amgen Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amgn#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/regn#NASDAQ">REGN</a>).
The top 10 holdings account for about 53.07% of total assets under management.
<h2>Performance and Risk</h2>
The ETF has gained about 8.95% and was up about 14.19% so far this year and in the past one year (as of 07/31/2024), respectively. IBB has traded between $112.41 and $148.26 during this last 52-week period.
The ETF has a beta of 0.74 and standard deviation of 22.11% for the trailing three-year period, making it a high risk choice in the space. With about 221 holdings, it effectively diversifies company-specific risk.
<h2>Alternatives</h2>
IShares Biotechnology ETF holds a Zacks ETF Rank of 2 (Buy), which is based on expected asset class return, expense ratio, and momentum, among other factors. Because of this, IBB is an excellent option for investors seeking exposure to the Health Care ETFs segment of the market. There are other additional ETFs in the space that investors could consider as well.
First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology ETF (ARCA:FBT) tracks NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index and the SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (ARCA:XBI) tracks S&amp;P Biotechnology Select Industry Index. First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology ETF has $1.16 billion in assets, SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF has $7.77 billion. FBT has an expense ratio of 0.56% and XBI charges 0.35%.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2312595/should-you-invest-in-the-ishares-biotechnology-etf-ibb?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-sector_etf-2312595">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

CNBC Halftime Report Final Trades: Amazon.com, Truist Financial, SPDR Series Trust SPDR S&P Biotech ETF

June closed on a high note for the stock market, with the S&amp;P 500, tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>), gaining 3.2%, despite significant disparities in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">sector and industry performances.</a>
The technology sector, as tracked by the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>), led the 11 S&amp;P 500 sectors in performance last month, surging 7.7% and achieving its strongest monthly gain this year. 
In stark contrast, utilities lagged, with the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) dropping 6.3%, marking the worst month since September 2023.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Top Performing Industry ETFs In June</h3>
The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IGV#NYSE">IGV</a>) rallied 11.3% last month, topping the rankings among industry ETFs. 
Hot on its heels was the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NYSE">SMH</a>), which climbed 8.4%, showcasing strong momentum in the semiconductor sector. 
Since hitting its low in October 2023, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF has rallied by an astounding 87%, and over 200% since October 2022, reflecting the spectacular growth in AI-driven stocks.
Securing the third spot in terms of monthly performance, the SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) gained 4%. 
Within the software sector, standout performers included Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>), which surged by 24.9%, CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) with a 22.1% increase, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), up by 20%.
Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) led chipmakers with a 21% rise. Universal Display Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLED#NYSE">OLED</a>) followed closely with a 19.7% increase, and Qorvo, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QRVO#NASDAQ">QRVO</a>) posted an 18% gain. 
Among chipmakers, Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), Universal Display Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLED#NYSE">OLED</a>) and Qorvo, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QRVO#NASDAQ">QRVO</a>) led gains, with performances of 21%, 19.7% and 18%, respectively.
In the biotech arena, Scilex Holding Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCLX#NASDAQ">SCLX</a>) experienced a 78.8% spike, making it the top industry gainer. Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALNY#NASDAQ">ALNY</a>) surged by 63.7%, while Avidity Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RNA#NASDAQ">RNA</a>) saw a robust 52% increase.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Top Performing Industry ETFs By Inflows In June</h3>
Examining fund flows, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF has emerged as a top choice for investors, attracting over $1 billion according to Tradingview data, and achieving its ninth consecutive month of inflows. Year-to-date the fund has registered $4.60 billion in net inflows.
The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF pulled in approximately $480 million in June, breaking a six-month streak of outflows and registering its highest monthly inflows since September 2022. Yet, its year-to-date net flows are still negative, down by $1.15 billion. 
The iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) collected $148 million in inflows last month, reflecting strong investor interest. Another industry witnessing robust inflows was represented by the Global X Copper Miners ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COPX#NYSE">COPX</a>), which attracted about $130 million.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39577080/manufacturing-contracts-more-than-expected-in-june-putting-pressure-on-profitabilit">Manufacturing Contracts More Than Expected In June, &#8216;Putting Pressure On Profitability&#8217;: Yields Rise, Stocks Fall</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Biotech stocks are high-risk, high-return opportunities that are under the mercy of several <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/short-ideas/14/03/4375961/binary-events-and-volatility">make-or-break catalysts, most of which are binary events.</a> It pays to remain cognizant of the timing of these catalysts and which way they will likely pan out. 
Benzinga brings to investors a weekly feature focusing on five key catalysts that could impact the stock prices of the respective companies in an appreciable manner.
1. Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARWR#NASDAQ">ARWR</a>)
<ul>
<li>Date: Tuesday, June 25</li>
<li>Catalyst: Discussion of Phase 3 PALISADE study of investigational plozasiran in patients with genetically confirmed or clinically diagnosed familial chylomicronemia syndrome </li>
</ul>
On June 3, the company released Phase 3 topline results, which showed the study met the primary endpoint, and key secondary endpoints and demonstrated statistical significance versus placebo. The stock rose over 7% on the day. The company is scheduled to discuss the data at the Cardiometabolic event on Tuesday as part of its 2024 Summer Series of R&amp;D Webinars.
The company expects to file an NDA for plozasiran in FCS around year-end, with a potential launch in 2025.
Arrowhead ended Friday&#8217;s session up 7.19% at $25.50, according to Benzinga Pro data. Chardan has a Buy rating on Arrowhead and a $60 price target: &#8220;We expect 2024 to be a data rich year for Arrowhead,&#8221; said Chardan analyst Keay Nakae in a June 3 note.
&#8220;We believe that at the current price, the balance of risk/reward is highly favorable for the stock going forward,&#8221; he said.
2. Intellia Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTLA#NASDAQ">NTLA</a>)
<ul>
<li>Date: Tuesday, June 25</li>
<li>Catalyst: redosing data from the Phase 1 study of NTLA-2001, which is based on CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology, </li>
</ul>
The data, which is to be presented at the &nbsp;Peripheral Nerve Society&nbsp;Annual Meeting being held in Montreal, Canada, will offer insight into the safety and pharmacodynamics of redosing patients. NTLA-2001 is being evaluated for Transthyretin amyloidosis, or ATTR amyloidosis, a rare, progressive and fatal disease.&nbsp;Interim Phase 1 clinical data showed the administration of NTLA-2001 led to consistent, deep and long-lasting TTR reduction. The gene-editing candidate is being jointly developed with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>).
The stock added 0.74% on Friday before closing at $24.22.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-biotech-stocks">Best Biotech Stocks</a>
3. Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>)
<ul>
<li>Date: Wednesday, June 26</li>
<li>Catalyst: PDUFA date for antibody-drug conjugate patritumab deruxtecan as a treatment option for a certain type of non-small cell lung cancer.</li>
</ul>
The ADC candidate is being tested in patients with locally advanced or metastatic EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) previously treated with two or more systemic therapies.
Lung cancer is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancers accounting for approximately 85% of all lung cancers. EGFR mutations occur in 14%-38% of all NSCLC tumors worldwide.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/23/10/35349800/merck-signs-multi-billion-deal-with-japans-daiichi-sankyo-for-cancer-therapy-drug-development">Patritumab deruxtecan is one of the three drugs Merck acquired</a> from Japan&#8217;s Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DSKYF#OTC">DSKYF</a>) last year.
Merck settled Friday&#8217;s session 0.81% higher at $130.72.
4. Verona Pharma plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNA#NASDAQ">VRNA</a>)
<ul>
<li>Date: Wednesday, June 26</li>
<li>Catalyst: PDUFA date for ensifentrine that is being evaluated as maintenance treatment of patients with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Raleigh, North Carolina-based Verona Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharma working on therapies for respiratory diseases. If ensifentrine gets the nod, it has the potential to become the first inhaled non-steroidal therapy for the treatment of respiratory diseases that combines bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory activities in one molecule, the company said. It is prepping for the commercial launch of ensifentrine in the third quarter.
Verona added 2.11% on Friday and ended at $15.
5. X4 Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XFOR#NASDAQ">XFOR</a>)
<ul>
<li>Date: Thursday, June 27 (8 a.m. EDT)</li>
<li>Catalyst: new interim Phase 2 data for mavorixafor in severe congenital neutropenia, which results from very low levels of neutrophils &#8211; a type of white blood cells that are used to treat several infections, especially bacterial.</li>
</ul>
The data will be presented at a virtual investor event hosted by the company. X4 Pharma rallied over 5% to $1.01.
The SPDR&nbsp;S&amp;P&nbsp;Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>), an exchange-traded fund that tracks the S&amp;P Biotechnology Select Industry Index, ended Friday at $92.38, up 2.77%. For the year, the EFF has gained 3.46%, underperforming the broader S&amp;P 500 Index.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/06/39430498/fda-approves-expanded-use-for-sareptas-rare-muscular-dystrophy-gene-therapy">FDA Approves Expanded Use For Sarepta&#8217;s Rare Muscular Dystrophy Gene Therapy</a>
Image Via Shutterstock

A cooler-than-expected U.S. inflation report fueled a rally on Wall Street, ahead of the highly anticipated Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39289912/us-inflation-eases-more-than-expected-in-may-boosts-2024-rate-cut-prospects-ahead-of-wednesdays-">meeting at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday.</a>
What happened: Inflation slowed to 3.3% annually in May, below both the expected and previous rate of 3.4%. On a monthly basis, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) remained flat, below the anticipated 0.1% increase and a significant drop from April&#8217;s 0.3% rise.
Additionally, the core measure of inflation, which excludes energy and food, weakened more than predicted. Annually, core inflation slowed from 3.6% to 3.4%, falling short of the 3.5% expectation.
Why it matters: Lower-than-expected inflation data is bolstering hopes for a steady return to the Federal Reserve&#8217;s 2% target and raising expectations for interest rate cuts later this year.
Markets are now assigning a probability of over 70% for a September rate cut, up from 54% before the inflation report. Notably, Fed futures now indicate 55 basis points of rate cuts priced in by the end of the year, implying two rate cuts.
Prospects of a declining cost of borrowing are aiding interest-rate sensitive sectors and stocks, which had lagged in recent weeks due to fears of prolonged higher rates.
Market reactions: Small caps, as tracked by the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>), were the brightest spot in the market, opening 2.9% higher and on track for the best-performing day year to date.
Chart: Small Caps Eye Best Day Since Mid-December 2023
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="500" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12094652/image-30-1024x500.png" alt="" class="wp-image-384572" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12094652/image-30-1024x500.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12094652/image-30-300x147.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12094652/image-30-768x375.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12094652/image-30-1536x750.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12094652/image-30.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
In comparison, large-cap indices such as the S&amp;P 500, the Nasdaq 100, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average were all about 0.9% higher.
Sector-wise, real estate and materials were the best performers, with the Vanguard Real Estate ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VNQ#NYSE">VNQ</a>) and the Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLB#NYSE">XLB</a>) up 2.2% and 1.6%, respectively.
Industry-wise, homebuilders, regional banks, solar, and biotech stocks were the top performers, showing notable increases.
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Homebuilders ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XHB#NYSE">XHB</a>) up 4%</li>
<li>Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) 3.9%</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>) up 3.3%</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) up 2.3%</li>
</ul>
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga pro</a> data the top-performing stocks (with at least $1 billion of market cap) in the hour following the U.S. inflation report were: 
<ol>
<li>Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RUN#NASDAQ">RUN</a>): 7.87%</li>
<li>Array Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARRY#NASDAQ">ARRY</a>): 7.65%</li>
<li>Opendoor Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OPEN#NASDAQ">OPEN</a>): 7.44%</li>
<li>Element Solutions Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ESI#NYSE">ESI</a>): 6.78%</li>
<li>TeraWulf Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WULF#NASDAQ">WULF</a>): 6.68%</li>
<li>Iamgold Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IAG#NYSE">IAG</a>): 6.55%</li>
<li>Globus Medical Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GMED#NYSE">GMED</a>): 6.04%</li>
<li>Dyne Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DYN#NASDAQ">DYN</a>): 5.99%</li>
<li>Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>): 5.93%</li>
<li>Upstart Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPST#NASDAQ">UPST</a>): 5.75%</li>
</ol>
Looking ahead, traders are now eagerly anticipating the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting. The statement and new macroeconomic projections will be released at 2:00 p.m. ET, followed by Fed Chair Powell's press conference at 2:30 p.m. ET.
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="&#x1f534;WATCH LIVE: Jerome Powell Speaks, FOMC Press Conference &#x7C; June 12th, 2024" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dt2EqXr84ks?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39252500/fed-meeting-preview-economists-predict-steady-rates-in-june-fewer-cuts-ahead">Fed Meeting Preview: Economists Predict Steady Rates In June, Fewer Cuts Ahead</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Macro Notification

Mid Cap

REIT

Small Cap

ARRY

ENPH

GMED

OPEN

UPST

WULF

Soft Inflation Data Boosts Small Caps, Real Estate, Regional Banks; Traders Anticipate Fed Rate Cuts As Stocks React

American Express Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>) has &#8220;above market growth for below market multiple,&#8221; Amy Raskin of Chevy Chase Trust said on CNBC's &#8220;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2024/06/03/final-trades-2-year-treasury-trade-desk-american-express-and-the-xbi.html">Halftime Report Final Trades</a>.&#8221; 
On May 7, American Express recently declared a dividend on Series D Preferred Stock and regular quarterly dividend.
On April 19, the New York-based company's first-quarter revenue (net of interest expense) grew 11% year-on-year to $15.80 billion, marginally beating the consensus of $15.79 billion. EPS of $3.33 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38359975/american-express-q1-wins-keep-analysts-steady-in-their-views">beat the consensus of $2.95</a>.
Stephen Weiss of Short Hills Capital Partners named U.S. 2 Year Treasury, saying it's just time <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/treasury-yields">not to take bets</a>.
Don't forget to check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a>
Brian Belski of BMO Capital Markets picked The Trade Desk, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TTD#NASDAQ">TTD</a>), saying "online and audio advertising, it&#8217;s a new position for us."
On May 8, Trade Desk posted better-than-expected first-quarter financial results. The company reported quarterly earnings of 26 cents per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of 21 cents by 23.81%. Quarterly sales came in at $491.25 million which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $480.31 million.
Joe Terranova of Virtus Investment Partners named SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) as his final trade.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Trade Desk shares rose 0.4% to close at $93.11 on Monday.</li>
<li>American Express shares fell 1.3% to close at $ 236.88 during Monday's session.</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF gained 2.6% during Monday's session.</li>
</ul>
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39135431/top-3-utilities-stocks-that-may-plunge-in-q2">Top 3 Utilities Stocks That May Plunge In Q2</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Long Ideas

Media

American Express, Trade Desk And More: CNBC's 'Final Trades'

CNBC Halftime Report Final Trades: American Express, The Trade Desk, SPDR Series Trust SPDR S&P Biotech ETF

Tesla CEO Elon Musk does not seem to agree with Republicans at least on one thing. On Wednesday, the billionaire, true to his credentials as a tech pioneer, unequivocally backed the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/penny-stocks/24/04/38491524/mrna-is-promising-a-breakthrough-in-fighting-cancer">mRNA technology, </a>which is the core of new-age vaccines.
What Happened: Social-media personality and prominent YouTuber Ed Krassenstein lauded the mRNA technology in a post on X, stating that it will &#8220;save millions of American lives in the future, if Republicans don't get in the way.&#8221;
The view was seconded by Musk, who is very active on the platform he owns. Replying to Krassenstein&#8217;s post, he said, &#8220;Synthetic mRNA is basically digital medicine with incredible potential.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Synthetic mRNA is basically digital medicine with incredible potential
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1788263974871437743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-biotech-stocks">Best Biotech Stocks Right Now</a> The Technology: So, what is this mRNA tech that Musk has a lot of confidence in? mRNA, with the &#8220;m&#8221; there standing for messenger, is a molecule that contains the instructions that direct the cells to make a protein using its natural machinery. When this synthetically developed mRNA reaches the cell in a protective bubble called a lipid nanoparticle, the cells read the set of instructions and begin making proteins that are found in the pathogen. Our body&#8217;s immune system sees these as invaders and produces antibodies and T-cells, and in the process trains the immune system to defend against potential future attacks. The vaccines developed against COVID-19 by most companies in the aftermath of the pandemic used the technology. Pfizer, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)-BioNTech SE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BNTX#NASDAQ">BNTX</a>), Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), and Novavax, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVAX#NASDAQ">NVAX</a>), which have FDA-approved vaccines against COVID-19, relied on the mRNA technology for developing their respective. Republicans Shun It: GOP voters and lawmakers, especially those who are more right-leaning, have been against the COVID-19 vaccines. In fact, the anti-vaxx movement, backed by Republicans, has taken on a political color. A Politico/Morning Consult poll conducted in late 2023 showed that 51% of the Republicans cared more about the health risk posed by the vaccine compared to the 49% of the respondents, who focused on the healthy benefits. In comparison, among the overall respondents, the split was 38% to 62%. As is the case with any new technology, skepticism abounds until science can prove that its potential benefits outweigh the risks. Safety for that matter was an issue with the COVID-19 vaccine developed by AstraZeneca plc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) along with Oxford University using the traditional vaccine technology. mRNA Bets: The global mRNA therapeutics market size, estimated at $11.75 billion in 2023, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 17.05% from 2024 to 2030, according to estimates by Grand View Research. If mRNA is going to be the technology of the future, as Musk and others claim, here are a few stocks that investors can consider adding to their portfolios. 1. Moderna (for skin cancer, flu, respiratory syncytial virus, and HIV, etc) 2. Arcturus Therapeutics Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARCT#NASDAQ">ARCT</a>) (for Ornithine transcarbamylase, cystic fibrosis, etc) 3. BioNTech (for cancers) 4. CureVac N.V. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVAC#NASDAQ">CVAC</a>) (for flu, COVID-19, cancers) 5. GeoVax Labs, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOVX#NASDAQ">GOVX</a>) (for infectious diseases and cancers) The SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) ended Wednesday&#8217;s session down 1.46% to $89.11, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag">Benzinga Pro data.</a></figcaption></figure>
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38189886/vaccine-player-vaxcyte-has-advantage-over-pfizer-mercks-pneumococcal-shots-analyst-">Vaccine Player Vaxcyte Has Advantage Over Pfizer, Merck&#8217;s Pneumococcal Shots &#8211; Analyst Says</a>
Photo via Shutterstock

ARCT

BNTX

GOVX

Elon Musk Breaks Ranks With GOP By Praising Genetic Engineering Tech That Helped Fight COVID-19: 'Digital Medicine With Incredible Potential'

It looked like all systems go for the market Thursday after the U.S. Labor Department reported more initial jobless claims than expected. The data was construed as a signal that the labor market is cooling down, conducive to the Fed's goal of lowering inflation. All indices opened the day higher, with the tech sector and the Invesco QQQ Trust Series (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NYSE">QQQ</a>) leading the way, at one point trading up more than 1% and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/wall-street">eyeing a record close.</a> But, before the day was over, various Fed speakers appeared tentative about the notion of cutting interest rates too early, sending stocks into a freefall. 
The Price Action: The stocks that got hammered the hardest on Thursday came primarily from interest-rate-sensitive sectors like semiconductors and clean energy stocks. These companies are more prone to sell-offs on hawkish Fed policy, as they typically are borrowing money to help pay for growth. When interest rates stay higher for longer, it makes borrowing money more expensive, hurting profits. NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), Super Micro Computer (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) and other chip names dropped significantly on the hawkish Fed Speak. The Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>), which tracks companies in the solar and clean energy space, fell more than 3% intraday on the interest rate fears. Other sectors that got hit include regional banks, with the SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>) dropping more than 2%, and the biotech industry, with the SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) dropping more than 2% intraday.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Comments From Fed Officials</h2>
On Thursday, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond President Thomas Barkin said that the Fed should &#8220;take its time&#8221; cutting interest rates, and that data so far in 2024 has been less encouraging <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/24/04/38099441/hawkish-fed-voices-lead-to-market-slide-its-possible-fed-wont-cut-this-year-if-inflati">in regards to slowing inflation. </a>
Then, less than an hour later, Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee said that housing inflation will need to come down to bring inflation to the Fed's 2% target. Other Fed officials that spoke Thursday raised doubts to if the central bank will be able to cut rates at all this year, let alone three times, like Chairman Jerome Powell laid out just a couple of weeks ago.
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/04/38098087/from-mouse-to-marvel-disney-stock-rockets-50-as-ceo-bob-iger-attempts-turnaround-plan">From Mouse To Marvel: Disney Stock Rockets 50% As CEO Bob Iger Attempts Turnaround</a>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

SMCI

Clean Energy, Semiconductors Among Interest-Rate-Sensitive Sectors Hammered Thursday Afternoon On Rate Cut Concerns

The biotech sector has been surging in recent months, reawakening from a period of underperformance that followed the 2021 highs. 
David Prince, professional trader at T3 Trading Group, joined Benzinga's &#8220;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jlq4K8-gYG8">PreMarket Prep</a>&#8221; on Tuesday and discussed the biotech industry, highlighting Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VKTX#NASDAQ">VKTX</a>) and Immunome, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IMNM#NASDAQ">IMNM</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/02/37345086/s-p-500-nasdaq-100-dip-small-caps-surge-bitcoin-tops-57-000-2-biotech-stocks-skyroc">as notable recent movers</a>.
"I look for wherever I can make the most amount of money, legally, with the least amount of risk. Biotech into ‘24 was definitely one of those areas," Prince said.&nbsp;
What To Know: Prince believes large biotech companies are looking to recapture growth while sitting on large amounts of capital. The professional trader expects these companies to find new growth opportunities through mergers, acquisitions and purchasing assets as opposed to "organic growth" from in-house drug development. 
Prince pointed to Immunome's gains over the past six months as an example of successful growth achieved by purchasing or licensing assets from outside drug developers. 
"The wind is at biotech's back because it did underperform … for three years," Prince added.
The T3 trader sees continued growth in the biotech sector and noted that the SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) is one way to gain exposure to the industry. The XBI is up nearly 15% in 2024 alone and has gained more than 30% over the past six months, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
"I think it's in a bull trend, and the charts look great," he said.
Related News: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/02/37318201/whats-going-on-with-biocryst-stock-after-earnings">What&#8217;s Going On With BioCryst Stock After Earnings?</a>
Prince noted that obesity drugs are a hot trend in biotech and highlighted Viking Therapeutics&#8217; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/02/37369830/viking-therapeutics-weight-loss-study-data-outperformed-novo-nordisk-eli-lilly-stud">large gains</a> following positive results from its GLP-1 Phase 2 trial. He cautioned, however, that investors should decide if there is "meat left on the bone" for stocks that have recently made outsized moves. 
Looking ahead, Prince sees lower interest rates as the next catalyst for biotech. He told Benzinga that he expects the industry to "charge ahead" when rates come down. 
VKTX, IMNM, XBI Price Action: According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, Viking Therapeutics shares are up 10.6% at $94.10, Immunome shares are down 1.35% at $25.65 and the SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF is down 0.63% at $102.28 at the time of publication. 
This illustration was generated using artificial intelligence via MidJourney.
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Nancy Pelosi The GOAT? &#x7C; PreMarket Prep" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Jlq4K8-gYG8?start=2213&#038;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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</figure>

Movers

IMNM

VKTX

Biotech Stocks Surge To Start 2024: 'Charts Look Great,' But Will The Trend Continue?

To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<img alt="" src="https://thearorareport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-02-28_08h05_09.png" style="height:350px; width:624px" />
<h3>Biotech Breakout</h3>
Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/stock-market-chart-analysis-biotech-breakout-xbi-mc-02282024">click here</a> for an enlarged version of the chart of SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (ARCA: XBI).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>The chart shows biotech has broken out.</li>
<li>The chart shows the move up was on high volume, indicating conviction in the move.</li>
<li>The chart shows when XBI was in the Arora buy zone.&nbsp;This represents a 54% gain in about four months.&nbsp;XBI is in the ZYX Allocation Core Model Portfolio by The Arora Report.</li>
<li>RSI on the chart shows that biotech is overbought.</li>
<li>The breakout in biotech shows there are opportunities for investors beyond AI, NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nvda#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), and big tech.</li>
<li>Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/lly#NYSE">LLY</a>) is a prime example.&nbsp;LLY has gained 139% in about a year.</li>
<li>In important news for AI, Apple Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has canceled its electric vehicle project.&nbsp; About 2,000 people have been working on this project.&nbsp;Apple seems to be recognizing that it needs to devote more resources to AI.&nbsp;This is good news for Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsla#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>).</li>
<li>Just released GDP data shows the economy is very strong and there is inflation pressure.&nbsp;Here are the details:
<ul>
<li>Q4 GDP Second Estimate came at 3.2% vs. 3.2% consensus.</li>
<li>GDP Deflator Second Estimate came at 1.6% vs. 1.5% consensus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Prudent investors should keep in mind that GDP is a lagging indicator.&nbsp;The Arora Report system is based on leading indicators in ten categories.&nbsp;Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/unique-zyx-asset-allocation-4/">click here </a>to see the ten categories of the ZYX Asset Allocation Model.</li>
<li>The latest consumer confidence data indicates that there is a high probability of this stock market rally stalling and even pulling back.&nbsp;Consumer confidence came at 106.7 vs. 114.6&nbsp; consensus.</li>
<li>Fed speak is ahead today from Fed Presidents Raphael Bostic, Susan Collins, and John Williams.&nbsp;Expect Fed speakers to push back against the notion of rapid interest rate cuts.</li>
<li>As an actionable item, the sum total of the foregoing is in the protection band, which strikes the optimum balance between various crosscurrents.&nbsp;Please scroll down to see the protection band.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h3>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in TSLA.
In the early trade, money flows are neutral in AAPL and Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/msft#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are negative in Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amzn#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/goog#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>), and NVDA.
In the early trade, money flows are mixed in SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (ARCA:SPY) and Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqq#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
<h3>Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h3>
The momo crowd is buying stocks in the early trade. Smart money is inactive in the early trade.
<h3>Gold</h3>
The momo crowd is buying gold in the early trade.&nbsp;Smart money is inactive in the early trade.
For longer-term, please see gold and silver ratings.
The most popular ETF for gold is SPDR Gold Trust (ARCA:GLD). The most popular ETF for silver is iShares Silver Trust (ARCA:SLV).&nbsp;
<h3>Oil</h3>
Oil is seeing buying on speculation that OPEC+ could extend production cuts through the end of the year.
API crude inventories came at a build of 8.428M barrels vs. a consensus of a build of 1.5M barrels.&nbsp;The API data is bearish for oil, but for the time being, traders are focused on OPEC+ speculation.
The momo crowd is aggressively buying oil in the early trade.&nbsp;Smart money is inactive in the early trade.
For longer-term, please see oil ratings.
The most popular ETF for oil is United States Oil ETF (ARCA:USO).
<h3>Bitcoin</h3>
Yesterday we wrote:
There is no resistance for bitcoin between here and $65,000.
At that time, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) was trading around $56,000.
Bitcoin has rocketed passed $60,000 and is trading above $61,000 as of this writing.
<h3>Protection Band And What To Do Now</h3>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp;The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp; When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h3>Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h3>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of seven year duration or less.&nbsp; Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever&nbsp;<a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter" target="_blank">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Opportunities For Investors Beyond AI And Nvidia – Biotech Breaks Out, New GDP Data Shows Inflation Pressure

The 42nd annual JPMorgan Healthcare Conference kickstarts on Monday in San Francisco, California, and the four-day event will run through Thursday. The investment bank touts the conference as the &#8220;most informative health care investment symposium in the industry, which connects <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/22/01/24976697/bristol-myers-squibb-shares-jump-after-j-p-morgan-healthcare-conference-presentation">global industry leaders, </a>emerging fast-growth companies, innovative technology creators, and members of the investment community.&#8221;
What To Expect: The event will likely be attended by 8,000 people, including delegates from biopharma companies. Apart from conference presentations, JPMorgan will also host private, invite-only events for industry leaders on the sidelines of the conference. 
In the past, the event has served as a platform for discussing and announcing deals in the healthcare and biopharma spaces. With sentiment toward the sector improving in 2023 and M&amp;A transactions picking up pace after a lull period, it shouldn&#8217;t be surprising if more are announced at the conference. 
In December, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) agreed to pay $14 billion for neuropsychiatry&nbsp;biotech Karuna Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRTX#NASDAQ">KRTX</a>). Also during the month, AbbVie, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) stitched up a $8.7 billion deal to buy neuroscience diseases-focused Cerevel Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CERE#NASDAQ">CERE</a>).
Companies could also choose to make preannouncements or update financial outlook, given the imminent onset of the fourth-quarter reporting season.
A lot of discussions could revolve around the use of artificial intelligence and robotics in healthcare, the new fad of weight-loss medications, and the healthcare and drug pricing reforms during the election year.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-biotech-stocks">Best Biotech Stocks</a>
Here&#8217;re some key presentations scheduled for Monday:
<ul>
<li>Bristol-Myers Squibb CEO Christopher Boerner will make a presentation and answer questions at 10:30 a.m. ET.</li>
<li>Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRTX#NASDAQ">VRTX</a>): CEO Dr.&nbsp;Reshma Kewalramani is scheduled to make a presentation at 11:15 a.m. ET. Ahead of its JPM appearance, the company issued a pipeline update on Sunday.</li>
<li>Amgen, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>): &nbsp;CEO Robert Bradway will present at 12 p.m. ET.</li>
<li>Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRPT#NASDAQ">SRPT</a>): Senior management of the company will present at the conference at 12 p.m. ET.</li>
<li>Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>): The vaccine company&#8217;s CFO, Jamey Mock, will present at 6:45 p.m. ET.</li>
</ul>
Is Conference A Market Mover? The SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>), which tracks the performance of the S&amp;P Biotechnology Select Industry Index, has made an average gain of merely 0.76% over the past decade, STAT News said in a report. The report noted that there were outlier years as well, as in the case of 2016 &#8211; an election year when the index fell 7% during the conference week amid fears concerning drug pricing reforms. 
In 2019, when <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/19/01/12924561/bristol-myers-squibb-bets-big-on-celgene-in-74b-cash-and-stock-deal">Bristol-Myers lapped up Celgene, </a>the index was up about 8%, it added.
Even if the conference doesn&#8217;t move the broader sector, individual stocks could come under significant volatility depending on the news flow from presentations.
In premarket trading on Monday, the XBI edged down 0.27% to $89.06, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag">Benzinga Pro data.</a> The index gained 7.6% in 2023, rebounding from the previous year&#8217;s 26% slump.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/01/36513924/strides-toward-lower-drug-costs-florida-becomes-first-to-receive-nod-to-import-prescription-drugs">Strides Toward Lower Drug Costs: Florida Becomes First To Receive Nod To Import Prescription Drugs from Canada</a>

ABBV

CERE

KRTX

SRPT

5 Biotech Stocks That Should Be On Investors' Radar As JPMorgan Healthcare Conference Gets Underway Monday

Satori Fund founder and portfolio manager&nbsp;Dan Niles&nbsp;is out with his top stock picks for 2024 and two Magnificent 7 names are at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/23/12/36423818/2023s-top-dogs-nvidia-meta-lead-s-p-500-charge-in-tumultuous-year-but-which-magnifi">the top of the list</a>.
What To Know: The Satori Fund&#39;s top picks for this year are a mixture of offensive&nbsp;and defensive names, as the firm believes the S&amp;P 500 could either rally significantly&nbsp;in 2024 or suffer a sizable&nbsp;drawdown, depending on the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/federal-reserve"> Federal Reserve</a>.
&quot;We believe the S&amp;P could gain another 20% (10% from earnings growth and another 10% from multiple expansion) if the Fed does in fact engineer the first soft landing since 1995,&quot; Niles <a href="http://twitter.com/DanielTNiles/status/1742572782276563434?s=20">said</a> Wednesday in a social media post.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">TOP 5 PICKS 2024
As a reminder, Our initial Top 5 picks coming into 2023 had a skew of defense and offense. Those were:
1) <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24META&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$META</a> &ndash; Our favorite megacap w/ low valuation &amp; growth 
2) <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24MUFG&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$MUFG</a> &ndash; Japan abandoning Yield Curve Control eventually 
3) <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24URA&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$URA</a> &ndash; resurgence in nuclear energy&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/Um7AEIZTbN">https://t.co/Um7AEIZTbN</a>
&mdash; Dan Niles (@DanielTNiles) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielTNiles/status/1742572782276563434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>&quot;Having said that, if we do get a shallow recession in 2024 given the long and variable lags in monetary policy, we could see the S&amp;P down 30% (10% earnings decline and 20% multiple compression).&quot;
Check This Out:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36472187/soft-landing-dont-bet-on-it-just-yet-feds-barkin-indicates-further-rate-hikes-possible">Soft Landing? Don&#39;t Bet On It Just Yet: Fed&#39;s Barkin Indicates Further Rate Hikes Possible</a>
The Top 5: The top stock on Niles&#39;&nbsp;list for 2024&nbsp;is Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amzn#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>).
Amazon tends to gain market share during&nbsp;recession&nbsp;and has a lot of profit margin expansion potential, Niles&nbsp;said this week in a CNBC interview.&nbsp;
The second name on the list is Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>), which is the only&nbsp;stock that was also on Niles&#39; top stocks list for&nbsp;2023.&nbsp;
Niles told CNBC that Meta is growing revenue 15% year-over-year and is trading around 25 times earnings, which is much more reasonable than other names in the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/magnificent-seven"> Magnificent 7</a>, he said.&nbsp;
Apple Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), for example, had negative 1% revenue growth in 2023 and is trading around 30 times earnings, Niles said.&nbsp;
The third name on Niles&#39; top stocks for 2024 list is&nbsp;Texas Instruments Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/txn#NASDAQ">TXN</a>).&nbsp;
&quot;Despite two of the Magnificent 7 being top picks on one of the barbell, we are increasingly looking for beaten up names with compelling valuations outside of the Magnificent 7 to drive returns,&quot; Niles said in the X post.&nbsp;
Texas Instruments was only up 3% in 2023 so the hedge fund investor&nbsp;expects the stock to outpace some of its&nbsp;peers in the semiconductor space in 2024, he said.&nbsp;
The last two names on the list are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">ETFs</a>:&nbsp;SPDR Series Trust SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (ARCA:XBI) and&nbsp;KraneShares Trust KraneShares CSI China Internet ETF (ARCA:KWEB).
Both of these ETFs have been underperforming for years and Niles is betting that they are at a valuation tipping point, which could deliver&nbsp;upside to patient investors in 2024,&nbsp;he said.
Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/01/36473198/top-stocks-sectors-loved-by-congress-members-who-traded-in-2023-apple-nvidia-microsoft-ford-and-">Top Stocks, Sectors Loved By Congress Members Who Traded In 2023: Apple, NVIDIA, Microsoft, Ford And More Stocks To Watch In 2024</a>
Photo: courtesy of Amazon.

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