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CuraScientific Corp manufactures commercial chemicals with a variety of commercial sterilization applications for agriculture, warehousing, hospitality, and medical facilities. The company's product, DiOx+, is a disinfectant sterilizer that kills harmful pathogens without exposing people or the environment to dangerous toxins.

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The holiday season is here. It&#39;s time to kick back, relax and try some of the cannabis products from new shops with new products.

Here&#39;s Where To Buy Legal Weed: New Stores Kicking Off Cannabis Sales Just In Time For The Holidays

CuraScientific Corp. (OTCPK:CSTF) has entered into an agreement with My Green Network (KGJMK OpCo, Inc.) in Santa Ana, California to showcase and sell their brand products.

CuraScientific Continues Expansion In The California Cannabis Market, Teams Up With My Green Network

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Baird analyst Ben Kallo is reassessing the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/electric-vehicles">electric vehicle landscape</a> in light of geopolitical uncertainty and policy changes. 
Here are two EV players attempting to navigate the turns ahead in 2025.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tesla</h2>
Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) remains a top pick with Baird emphasizing its long-term potential despite near-term volatility. The stock, up nearly 91% since the election, has momentum, Kallo says:
<ul>
<li>New Models: Upcoming vehicles, including the lower-cost &#8216;Model 2&#8217; and Cybertruck, promise to drive volume growth.</li>
<li>Cost Efficiencies: Falling production costs and increased factory utilization are expected to boost margins.</li>
<li>Regulatory Tailwinds: While the removal of the EV tax credit is a negative for the sector, Tesla's competitors are likely to feel the pinch more.</li>
<li>AI and Autonomy: Investments in full self-driving (FSD), Dojo compute, and the Optimus robot could redefine the EV market.</li>
</ul>
However, Tesla's valuation, geopolitical risks tied to its Shanghai operations, and potential delays in autonomy initiatives are points of caution. 
Kallo suggests buying on pullbacks, underlining Tesla's strong position as a market leader.
Read Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/news/24/12/42515720/whats-going-on-with-rivian-rivn-stock">What&#8217;s Going On With Rivian (RIVN) Stock?</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rivian</h2>
Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) faces a tougher road ahead, earning a downgrade to Neutral.
This downgrade reflects a challenging near-term outlook. Despite a strong brand and promising long-term potential, Kallo highlights several hurdles:
<ul>
<li>Demand Concerns: EV sales may fall short of expectations in 2025, dampening momentum.</li>
<li>Production Challenges: Limited ability to leverage fixed costs due to lower production volumes.</li>
<li>Few Catalysts: With the Volkswagen joint venture finalized and DOE funding secured, Rivian lacks clear drivers for growth next year.</li>
</ul>
While Kallo remains optimistic about Rivian's R2 lineup and its long-term opportunity. But skepticism around near-term profitability and margins led to the Neutral rating.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Big Picture</h2>
As the EV market faces headwinds from policy uncertainty and evolving global dynamics, Tesla continues to dominate while Rivian, though promising, has more to prove in the near term. 
For investors, it's a tale of two trajectories—one accelerating confidently, the other stuck in neutral.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42548657/tesla-design-chief-says-ev-giant-was-looking-to-create-future-version-of-nycs-yellow-cabs-with-gold-cybercab-it-feels-right">Tesla Design Chief Says EV Giant Was Looking To Create &#8216;Future Version&#8217; Of NYC&#8217;s Yellow Cabs With Gold Cybercab: &#8216;It Feels Right&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

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Tesla Remains A Top EV Stock Pick, Rivian Faces Roadblocks: Analyst

Two men from Rochester, New York, met their end after developing a "rare fungal lung infection" linked to using bat guano, or feces, as fertilizer for growing cannabis for their personal use.
The University of Rochester detailed the cases in a <a href="https://academic.oup.com/ofid/article/11/12/ofae711/7917418">report</a> published in Open Forum Infectious Diseases, warning that "exposure to bat guano among cannabis growers appears to be a recent trend that can lead to histoplasmosis cases and outbreaks." Histoplasmosis is a lung infection caused by inhaling spores of the Histoplasma fungus. It is also known as the &#8220;cave disease.&#8221;
What Happened: The first man (59), bought his guano online to use as fertilizer for his cannabis plants. The second man (64), was intending to fertilize his cannabis plants with the bat poop he found in his attic following a heavy bat infestation.
The 59-year-old, a heavy tobacco smoker who had emphysema and arthritis, was hospitalized for respiratory failure after experiencing weight loss, a sore throat and difficulty swallowing over six weeks. A biopsy confirmed histoplasmosis.
The second man, who had vascular disease, reported a "heavy bat infestation" in his attic where he regularly inspected the thick layer of guano, which he intended to use as fertilizer for his cannabis plants, <a href="https://www.livescience.com/health/viruses-infections-disease/bat-poop-used-to-grow-cannabis-kills-2-in-new-york-in-unusual-cases">reported</a> Live Science. He was hospitalized for low sodium levels, chronic coughing and weight loss after initially being treated for histoplasmosis.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Histoplasmosis: Rare But Deadly </h2>
Histoplasmosis is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late, which naturally can exacerbate its severity. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches and chest pain. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the brain and spinal cord, causing meningitis. The disease affects an estimated 1 to 2 per 100,000 people annually in the U.S., though researchers suggest the prevalence may be higher due to underreporting or misdiagnosis.
The authors of the report stressed the urgent need for public awareness, particularly as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cannabis-legalization">cannabis legalization</a> and the promotion of bat guano fertilizers grow. "Commercial biofertilizers containing bat guano should be tested for [the fungus] before reaching the market," they wrote. "If testing is not feasible, risk mitigation strategies should be implemented.
"The association between histoplasmosis cases and outbreaks with environmental disturbances, particularly in the presence of bat and bird droppings, is well recognized," said the researchers.
They also noted that climate change and bat migration patterns could be adding to an increase in Histoplasma infections. While bats are primary carriers of the fungus, bird droppings can also contribute to its spread.
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42488355/bird-flu-spreads-to-cats-possibly-horses-as-officials-signal-no-plans-to-authorize-vaccination">Bird Flu Spreads To Cats, Possibly Horses As Officials Signal No Plans To Authorize Vaccination</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Danny Ye/Shutterstock.com

Bat Poop Kills 2 Cannabis Farmers In New York From 'Rare' Fungal Infections

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Powell Says Higher Inflation Is Probably Biggest Factor For New Projections; Moving Sideways On 12-Month Inflation

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on RH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RH#NYSE">RH</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with RH, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 8 uncommon options trades for RH.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 62% bullish and 25%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 3 are puts, for a total amount of $87,050, and 5 are calls, for a total amount of $235,910.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $160.0 to $470.0 for RH during the past quarter. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for RH's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of RH's whale trades within a strike price range from $160.0 to $470.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>RH Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734551138_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>RH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$49.7</td>
<td>$49.0</td>
<td>$49.0</td>
<td>$440.00</td>
<td>$98.0K</td>
<td align="right">132</td>
<td align="right">20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$76.0</td>
<td>$73.2</td>
<td>$76.0</td>
<td>$470.00</td>
<td>$53.2K</td>
<td align="right">186</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$6.4</td>
<td>$6.4</td>
<td>$415.00</td>
<td>$32.0K</td>
<td align="right">78</td>
<td align="right">52</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$17.7</td>
<td>$17.5</td>
<td>$17.7</td>
<td>$430.00</td>
<td>$31.8K</td>
<td align="right">701</td>
<td align="right">32</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$28.8</td>
<td>$28.8</td>
<td>$28.8</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$28.8K</td>
<td align="right">176</td>
<td align="right">10</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About RH</h3>
RH is a luxury furniture and lifestyle retailer operating in the $134 billion domestic furniture and home furnishing industry. The firm offers merchandise across many categories including furniture, lighting, textiles, bath, decor, and children and is growing the presence of its hospitality business with 19 restaurant locations. RH innovates, curates, and integrates products, categories, services, and businesses across channels and brand extensions (RH Modern and Waterworks, for example). RH is fully integrated across channels and is positioned to broaden its addressable market over the next decade by expanding abroad, with its World of RH digital platform (highlighting offerings outside of home furnishings), and with offerings in bespoke furniture, architecture, media, and more.
<h3>RH's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 458,435, the RH's price is up by 0.55%, now at $414.0. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 98 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About RH</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $442.0.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Guggenheim lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $425. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Morgan Stanley persists with their Equal-Weight rating on RH, maintaining a target price of $435. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Loop Capital has decided to maintain their Hold rating on RH, which currently sits at a price target of $450. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Stifel lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $420. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Telsey Advisory Group continues to hold a Market Perform rating for RH, targeting a price of $480. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for RH with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

Behind the Scenes of RH's Latest Options Trends

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on Qualcomm.
Looking at options history for Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) we detected 24 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 29% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 58% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 15 are puts, for a total amount of $770,801 and 9, calls, for a total amount of $376,265.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $105.0 and $180.0 for Qualcomm, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Qualcomm stands at 1771.79, with a total volume reaching 2,158.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Qualcomm, situated within the strike price corridor from $105.0 to $180.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Qualcomm 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734551133_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$4.75</td>
<td>$4.65</td>
<td>$4.65</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$111.1K</td>
<td>5.6K</td>
<td align="right">484</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$19.25</td>
<td>$18.75</td>
<td>$18.75</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$88.1K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td align="right">113</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$7.45</td>
<td>$7.4</td>
<td>$7.45</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$83.4K</td>
<td>365</td>
<td align="right">149</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$30.4</td>
<td>$29.4</td>
<td>$29.45</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$64.7K</td>
<td>470</td>
<td align="right">22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$8.8</td>
<td>$8.7</td>
<td>$8.8</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$64.1K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td align="right">96</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Qualcomm</h3>
Qualcomm develops and licenses wireless technology and designs chips for smartphones. The company's key patents revolve around CDMA and OFDMA technologies, which are standards in wireless communications that are the backbone of all 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Qualcomm's IP is licensed by virtually all wireless device makers. The firm is also the world's largest wireless chip vendor, supplying nearly every premier handset maker with leading-edge processors. Qualcomm also sells RF-front end modules into smartphones, as well as chips into automotive and Internet of Things markets.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Qualcomm, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Where Is Qualcomm Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 3,282,009, the price of QCOM is up 0.09% at $158.07. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 42 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Qualcomm</h3>
A total of 3 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $183.33333333333334.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its rating to Neutral, setting a price target of $160. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Susquehanna continues to hold a Positive rating for Qualcomm, targeting a price of $210. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Melius Research lowers its rating to Hold with a new price target of $180.
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Qualcomm with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

QCOM

Looking At Qualcomm's Recent Unusual Options Activity

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Albemarle (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALB#NYSE">ALB</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with ALB, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 11 uncommon options trades for Albemarle.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 0% bullish and 81%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 2 are puts, for a total amount of $65,484, and 9 are calls, for a total amount of $540,108.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $80.0 to $150.0 for Albemarle over the recent three months. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Albemarle stands at 1298.12, with a total volume reaching 1,164.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Albemarle, situated within the strike price corridor from $80.0 to $150.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Albemarle Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734551128_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ALB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$12.9</td>
<td>$11.9</td>
<td>$11.9</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$142.8K</td>
<td align="right">245</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$35.7</td>
<td>$35.5</td>
<td>$35.5</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$78.1K</td>
<td align="right">10</td>
<td align="right">29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$7.75</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$75.0K</td>
<td align="right">567</td>
<td align="right">201</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$7.75</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$75.0K</td>
<td align="right">567</td>
<td align="right">101</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$12.45</td>
<td>$12.4</td>
<td>$12.45</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$37.4K</td>
<td align="right">103</td>
<td align="right">207</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Albemarle</h3>
Albemarle is one of the world's largest lithium producers. In the lithium industry, the majority of demand comes from batteries, where lithium is used as the energy storage material, particularly in electric vehicles. Albemarle is a fully integrated lithium producer. Its upstream resources include salt brine deposits in Chile and the US and two hard rock mines in Australia, both of which are joint ventures. The company operates lithium refining plants in Chile, the US, Australia, and China. Albemarle is a global leader in the production of bromine, used in flame retardants. It is also a major producer of oil refining catalysts.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Albemarle, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Albemarle's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 867,338, the ALB's price is down by -3.59%, now at $94.05. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 56 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Albemarle</h3>
1 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $103.0.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Baird keeps a Neutral rating on Albemarle with a target price of $103. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Albemarle, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in Albemarle

<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/12/18/governor-newsom-takes-proactive-action-to-strengthen-robust-state-response-to-bird-flu/#:~:text=What%20you%20need%20to%20know,ongoing%20cross%2Dagency%20response%20efforts" title="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/12/18/governor-newsom-takes-proactive-action-to-strengthen-robust-state-response-to-bird-flu/#:~:text=What%20you%20need%20to%20know,ongoing%20cross%2Dagency%20response%20efforts">https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/12/18/governor-newsom-takes-proactive-action-to-strengthen-robust-state-response-to-bird-flu/#:~:text=What%20you%20need%20to%20know,ongoing%20cross%2Dagency%20response%20efforts</a>

Health Care

NVAX

CA Governor Newsom Proclaimed State Of Emergency To Further Enhance State's Preparedness And Accelerate The Bird Flu Cross-Agency Response Efforts

Pudgy Penguins (CRYPTO: PENGU) newly launched token has found its way into established media, coinciding with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42496442/if-you-invested-1000-in-pudgy-penguins-nfts-at-mint-heres-how-much-youd-have-today">rally on Wednesday</a>.
What Happened: In a FOX Business interview on Tuesday, Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev expressed skepticism about meme coins, calling them &#8220;distractions.&#8221; He noted how easy it is to create such tokens, gain liquidity and launch them globally.
The interviewer specifically <a href="https://x.com/GeneralPudgy/status/1869233192965976376">asked</a> about PENGU, which debuted at a $2.3 billion valuation and peaked at $90 million in trading volume within the first hour. Tenev did not mention PENGU specifically.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42411112/shiba-inu-pepe-or-bonk-ranking-reddits-most-popular-meme-coins">Shiba Inu, Pepe Or Bonk? Ranking Reddit&#8217;s Most Popular Meme Coins</a>
Trader Notes: Prominent crypto trader Ansem reacted to a tweet by analyst Byzantine General, revealing a new long position on PENGU. 
The analyst described PENGU&#8217;s chart as &#8220;interesting,&#8221; noting that a continued price rally could fill the wick—a move worth watching closely.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">This is starting to look interesting. Imagine the seething if this pumps straight back up to fill the wick.<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PENGU&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PENGU</a> <a href="https://t.co/Nwz604JdEw">pic.twitter.com/Nwz604JdEw</a>
&mdash; Byzantine General (@ByzGeneral) <a href="https://twitter.com/ByzGeneral/status/1869410857484202040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Another trader, Leshka.eth, highlighted PENGU&#8217;s $2 billion valuation and the fact that over 70% of airdrops have already been claimed. 
Leshka emphasized the token&#8217;s resilience, <a href="https://x.com/leshka_eth/status/1869431593213042792">stating</a>: "This token survived $600,000,000 of sell pressure within 24 hours only -50% drawdown from the top."
Price Action: Over the past 24 hours, PENGU has surged 15%, outperforming Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) and Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>), both of which saw 4% drops during the same period.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42223340/bitcoin-meme-coins-to-go-through-7-stages-of-the-bull-run-between-now-and-march-trader-says">Bitcoin, Meme Coins To Go Through 7 Stages Of The Bull Run Between Now And March, Trader Says</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

$DOGE

$SHIB

Pudgy Penguins PENGU Token Extends Rally, Outperforms Dogecoin, Shiba Inu On Wednesday

ProShares UltraPro Short QQQ (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQQQ#NASDAQ">SQQQ</a>), which offers leveraged inverse exposure to the Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), gained 3% to $28.95 Wednesday afternoon as the Federal Reserve <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/24/12/42561549/fed-slashes-interest-rates-by-0-25-as-predicted-december-dot-plot-flags-only-2-potential-cuts-in-2025">delivered a dovish tone during its December meeting</a>.
SQQQ, designed to rise when the Nasdaq-100 falls, benefits from bearish sentiment toward growth-oriented technology stocks.
What Happened: The Fed lowered the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to a range of 4.25%-4.5%, marking the third consecutive rate cut in 2023. 
However, its updated projections suggest fewer cuts in 2025, signaling persistently higher borrowing costs. This fueled concerns that tech stocks, which are sensitive to interest rates, may struggle under tighter monetary conditions.
Additionally, the Fed raised inflation expectations for 2025, projecting headline PCE inflation at 2.5%. Elevated inflation could pressure future earnings, further weighing on growth stocks.
As rate-sensitive tech valuations recalibrate, traders might turn to SQQQ to capitalize on market volatility.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/24/12/42561549/fed-slashes-interest-rates-by-0-25-as-predicted-december-dot-plot-flags-only-2-potential-cuts-in-2025">Fed Slashes Interest Rates By 0.25% As Predicted: December Dot Plot Flags Only 2 Potential Cuts In 2025</a>
According to data from&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>, SQQQ has a 52-week high of $74.80 and a 52-week low of $27.54.

SQQQ

Why Nasdaq-100 Inverse ETF SQQQ Is Moving

Powell Says To Cut Further After This Point, Looking For Further Progress On Inflation And Strength In Labor Market

Powell Says The 'Extent And Timing' Language Shows We Are At Or Near Point Of Being Appropriate To Slow Rate Cuts; Says The Slower Pace Of Rate Cuts Reflects Expectation Of Higher Inflation But Sees Ourselves As Still On Track To Continue To Cut

Powell Says Policy Is Well Positioned To Deal With Risks; Says Downside Risks To Labor Market Remain Diminished But Still cooling, Says Don't Think We Need Further Cooling In Labor Market To Get Inflation To 2%

Powell Says Powell: Policy Stance Is Now Significantly Less Restrictive And We Can Be More Cautious Going Forward, More Cautious In Reducing Rate, Says Can Dial Back Policy Restraint More Slowly If Inflation Not Moving Sustainably Toward 2%

The list of companies that have market capitalizations greater than $1 trillion continues to grow with Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) recently joining the club after its quarterly financial results sparked <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42488220/broadcom-hits-1-trillion-milestone-the-next-magnificent-tech-giant">a rally in shares.</a>
A Benzinga poll asks readers which company could be next to join the elusive club.
What Happened: Less than two years ago, investors could count on one hand the number of companies that were valued at more than $1 trillion. That changed in May 2023 when NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) became the sixth company in the club and ninth public company in history to be valued at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/05/32630114/nvidia-becomes-ninth-company-to-hit-1-trillion-market-cap-who-could-be-next-to-join-elusive-club">more than $1 trillion.</a>
Fast forward to December 2024 and there are now 10 companies valued at $1 trillion or more. Berkshire Hathaway Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) crossed the milestone earlier this year and currently hovers near it again, with a market capitalization of $983 billion.
Here is the current list of members in the $1 trillion market capitalization club, according to <a href="https://companiesmarketcap.com/">Companiesmarketcap.com</a>:
<ul>
<li>Apple: $3.82 trillion</li>
<li>Microsoft: $3.35 trillion</li>
<li>Nvidia: $3.30 trillion</li>
<li>Amazon.com: $2.43 trillion</li>
<li>Alphabet: $2.39 trillion</li>
<li>Saudi Aramco: $1.83 trillion</li>
<li>Meta Platforms: $1.57 trillion</li>
<li>Tesla: $1.52 trillion</li>
<li>Broadcom: $1.10 trillion</li>
<li>Taiwan Semiconductor: $1.06 trillion</li>
</ul>
Benzinga recently asked who will be the next company to join the club for the first time with Berkshire Hathaway left out due to its close proximity and the fact it had already been in the club.
"Following Broadcom, which company will join the $1 trillion club next?" Benzinga asked.
The results were as follows along with the market caps at the time the poll was conducted:
<ul>
<li>Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>), $759 billion: 53%</li>
<li>Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), $757 billion: 24%</li>
<li>JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), $675 billion: 13%</li>
<li>Visa Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), $619 billion: 9%</li>
</ul>
Over half of readers polled said they believe Walmart will be the next company to join the $1 trillion club for the first time, followed by Eli Lilly at around one fourth of readers.
Here's a look at the current year-to-date and five-year returns of the four stocks featured in the poll:
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="765" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18143238/output-1024x765.png" alt="" class="wp-image-698436" style="width:920px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18143238/output-1024x765.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18143238/output-300x224.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18143238/output-768x574.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18143238/output.png 1446w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Chart created using ChatGPT.
The chart above shows that while Walmart is the top gainer year-to-date, it is Eli Lilly that has the better five-year stock growth.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/specialty-etfs/24/07/39618512/nancy-pelosi-loads-up-on-more-nvidia-shares-sells-tesla-she-always-reports-right-before-a-hol">Nancy Pelosi Loads Up On More Nvidia Shares, Buys Broadcom Options </a>
Why It's Important: Broadcom stock is up 28% over the last five days and up over 113% year-to-date. The company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/12/42472970/broadcom-reports-mixed-q4-results-eps-beat-revenues-miss-q1-guidance-in-line-with-estimates">beat fourth-quarter</a> analyst earnings per share, missed revenue estimates and provided guidance that was in-line. The guidance and positive outlook was enough to send shares higher and provide entry into the club.
Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), which was previously a member of the club, has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/24/11/41856784/elon-musks-wealth-tops-300-billion-as-teslas-market-cap-soars-above-1-trillion">rejoined the $1 trillion club</a> thanks to impressive gains for the electric vehicle stock since Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election.
Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) is another company that was previously in the $1 trillion club years ago and rejoined the club earlier this year.
In August, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/08/40604676/warren-buffetts-berkshire-hathaway-breaks-1-trillion-poll-points-to-big-pharma-not-tech-as-next-cont">Benzinga polled readers </a>to ask which company they thought would hit the $1 trillion valuation next after Berkshire Hathaway joined.
The results were:
<ul>
<li>Eli Lilly: 43%</li>
<li>Taiwan Semiconductor: 25%</li>
<li>Tesla: 19%</li>
<li>Broadcom: 11%</li>
<li>Walmart: 3%</li>
</ul>
That poll was conducted when Eli Lilly and Taiwan Semiconductor both traded with market capitalizations of around $800 billion. Readers ended up being wrong with Eli Lilly still out of the club, while Taiwan Semiconductor, Tesla and Broadcom have all joined in recent months.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42121665/could-another-magnificent-7-stock-beat-nvidia-in-2025-poll-says-not-likely-27-pick-this-potential-winner">Could Another Magnificent 7 Stock Beat Nvidia In 2025? Poll Says Not Likely, 27% Pick This Potential Winner</a></li>
</ul>
The study was conducted by Benzinga from Dec. 16 through Dec. 17, 2024, and included the responses of a diverse population of adults 18 or older. Opting into the survey was completely voluntary, with no incentives offered to potential respondents. The study reflects results from 128 adults.
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Exclusives

AVGO

NVDA

Who's Next To Join Tesla, Broadcom In $1 Trillion Club? Over 50% Say The World's Biggest Retailer

Powell Says Core PCE Prices Probably Rose 2.8% In Nov, Says Inflation Expectations Remain Well Anchored

In one of my daily comments last week, I highlighted how the SMH semiconductor ETF was testing a key support level. Well, it bounced off that level a bit on Friday. Whether that bounce continues or fails should be extremely important for this consequential leadership group. Now we have Nvidia testing a critical level as well.
This is something all investors need to watch next week!
As I have shown many times in the past, semiconductor stocks have either been a leading indicator for the broad stock market, or a coincident indicator, for many decades. They have not been a lagging indicator. Therefore, the odds that the recent divergence that has developed between the SMH and the S&amp;P 500 will be resolved with a significant bounce back in the SMH are quite low. Instead, the odds are quite high that it will be resolved with a decline in the S&amp;P at some point, and given what took place in 2018, this might begin quite soon.&nbsp;
That's right, the divergence that exists today between the SMH and the S&amp;P 500 is very reminiscent of what took place in 2018. Back then, they both made nice new highs in the spring, but they began to diverge at that point. As the S&amp;P made a new high over the summer, the SMH did not.
In fact, it slid lower, and then continued to underperform the S&amp;P over the next six months. This year, the SMH and S&amp;P made new highs during the summer. The S&amp;P was able to push back to a new high a few months later, but the SMH has not. It slid quite a bit lower during the late-summer months, and has underperformed the S&amp;P 500 ever since.
Now, it's almost six months since this divergence began to develop, just like it was in 2018, when the situation began to resolve itself. Back then, the SMH went from merely "underperforming" to actually declining in a meaningful way. When that took place, the rest of the stock market followed the chip stocks lower, and the result was a 19% decline in the S&amp;P 500.
Of course, just because it's almost six months later this time around, does not mean that the same thing is going to happen after six months. We're going to have to see actual evidence that the SMH is starting to break down in a meaningful way before we can focus on these similarities. However, if the SMH falls much further from where it is trading right now, that will indeed raise concerns that the chip stocks are beginning a significant path lower. 
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As you can see from the first chart below, the SMH tested its 200-DMA right last week:
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="476" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142723/image003-1-1024x476.png" alt="" class="wp-image-698424" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142723/image003-1-1024x476.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142723/image003-1-300x140.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142723/image003-1-768x357.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142723/image003-1.png 1139w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
(I have highlighted how this ETF has been flirting with this number recently, but now it&#8217;s actually testing that level.) Thankfully, it was able to bounce off that line on Friday, but it needs to see some more upside follow-through to confirm that the 200-DMA is indeed going to provide strong support, just like it has several times over the past few months. (I'd also note that the 200-DMA is also the trend-line from the August lows, so that's another reason to worry about a break below that line.)
In other words, if it rolls back over quickly, and takes out that 200-DMA in any meaningful way, it's going to be a very bearish development for this key leadership group. So, the SMH still stands at a key technical juncture.
The one stock that will very likely tell us what happens in the chip group going forward is Nvidia (NVDA). (It was great that Broadcom (AVGO) was able to give the group a nice lift on Friday, but NVDA actually closed lower on the day.) Therefore, the next significant move in NVDA should be extremely important, given that it's more than 21% of the SMH.
The reason I&#8217;m highlighting this situation for NVDA is that it stands at a critical juncture on a technical basis. The stock has formed a "head and shoulders" pattern over the past three months and it broke slightly below the "neckline" of that pattern on Friday:
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="476" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142715/image002-3-1024x476.png" alt="" class="wp-image-698423" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142715/image002-3-1024x476.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142715/image002-3-300x140.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142715/image002-3-768x357.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18142715/image002-3.png 1139w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
So, if it falls further next week, and breaks more meaningfully below that neckline, it's going to be very bearish for this key stock, because "head and shoulders" patterns are one of the most bearish ones in technical analysis.&nbsp;
However, I also need to point out that one of the most bullish items we can see in technical analysis is a "failed head and shoulders" pattern. Therefore, if NVDA can bounce back sharply and quickly next week, it should be something that adds to Friday's bounce in the SMH. That would likely lead to more the upside momentum in the overall tech sector, and the broad stock market as well.
In other words, even though NVDA was not overly important for the stock market last week, it should return to its standing as the most important stock in the market next week, and I'll be watching its movements extremely closely.
Benzinga Pro alerts have led to major gains, like 270% on BLPH and 147% on CRBP. Access this market-shaping news before anyone else with Benzinga Pro's free two-week trial. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/checkout/benzinga-pro-essential-2024/?t=be16bespmirebz36&amp;utm_source=WebRD-1218">Click here to start now.</a>
Image via Shutterstock

Opinion

Why the S&P Could Plunge 19%

Fed Chair Powell Says Inflation Much Closer To 2% Goal; Says Consumer Spending Resilient, Investment In Equipment Has Strengthened And Housing Activity Has Been Weak

<a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/despite-revamped-proposals-nippon-steel-deal-track-be-blocked-letter-says-2024-12-18/">https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/despite-revamped-proposals-nippon-steel-deal-track-be-blocked-letter-says-2024-12-18/</a>
&nbsp;
Despite a steady stream of meetings and calls with U.S. officials, and three revamped proposals to assuage national security concerns, Nippon Steel <a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/companies/5401.T">(5401.T), opens new tab</a> has failed to garner approval from a powerful panel reviewing its $14.9 billion bid for U.S. Steel <a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/companies/X.N">(X.N), opens new tab</a>, a letter seen by Reuters shows.
The letter, sent Saturday, sets the stage for U.S. President Joe Biden, who has long opposed the deal, to block it. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), which reviews deals for <a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/us-worries-about-steel-supply-infrastructure-after-nippon-us-steel-deal-2024-09-05/">national security risks</a>, has a Dec. 23 deadline to approve the deal, extend the review, or recommend Biden scuttle it.
If the agencies that make up the panel remain at loggerheads, as the letter states, they will refer the matter to Biden to take action.
The history of outreach since early September, including four in-person meetings with CFIUS, three phone calls, including one on Friday with the Treasury and Commerce department secretaries, as well as the three proposed mitigation agreements is contained in a letter dated Saturday sent to Nippon Steel by CFIUS that has not been previously reported.
It shows the <a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/nippon-steel-rebuts-cfiuss-case-against-its-bid-us-steel-letter-2024-09-09/">lengths the companies have gone to</a> try to win approval on the controversial merger, even as the letter signals the deal is likely doomed.
"The Committee has not yet reached consensus on whether the mitigation measures proposed by the Parties would be effective... or whether they would resolve the risk to U.S. national security arising from the Transaction," CFIUS writes in closing.
"The President may take such action for such time as the President considers appropriate to suspend or prohibit a covered transaction that threatens to impair the national security," it adds.
The White House, Nippon Steel, and the Commerce Department, which is co-leading the review of the deal at CFIUS, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Treasury, which leads CFIUS, declined to comment. U.S. Steel said in a statement that Nippon Steel provides, "by far, the brightest future for U.S. Steel," adding that no other party can make the billions in investments Nippon Steel has promised to make.
&nbsp;
"U.S. Steel will not-- and does not have the resources-- to do this on our own," it added.
<h2>HIGH-LEVEL OPPOSITION</h2>
The proposed tie-up has faced high-level opposition within the U.S. since it was announced a year ago, with both Biden and his incoming successor <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/donald-trump/">Donald Trump</a> taking aim at it as they sought to woo union voters in the swing state of Pennsylvania, where U.S. Steel is headquartered. The president of the United Steelworkers Union, opposes the tie-up.
The merger appeared fast-tracked to be blocked after the companies received an Aug. 31 letter from CFIUS, seen by Reuters, arguing the deal could hurt the supply of steel needed for critical transportation, construction and agriculture projects.
But Nippon Steel, countering that its investments, made by a company from an allied nation, would in fact shore up U.S. Steel's output, won a 90-day review extension. That gave CFIUS until after the November election to make a decision, fueling hope among supporters that the calmer political climate could win the deal's approval.
But CFIUS's 29-page letter Saturday, first referenced by the Financial Times and later seen by Reuters, shows the hopes were likely unfounded.

Legal

NPSCY

"Despite Revamped Proposals, Nippon Steel Deal On Track To Be Blocked, Letter Says" - Reuters News

Zebra Technologies's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZBRA#NYSE">ZBRA</a>) short percent of float has risen 11.71% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 561 thousand shares sold short, which is 1.24% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.67 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Zebra Technologies Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734550224_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Zebra Technologies has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Zebra Technologies's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Zebra Technologies's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 6.70%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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Looking Into Zebra Technologies's Recent Short Interest

Comfort Systems USA's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FIX#NYSE">FIX</a>) short percent of float has fallen 3.97% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 652 thousand shares sold short, which is 2.66% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.86 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Comfort Systems USA Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734550218_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Comfort Systems USA has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Comfort Systems USA's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Comfort Systems USA's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 4.99%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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The holiday season is here. It&#39;s time to kick back, relax and try some of the cannabis products from new shops with&nbsp;new products.

<h3>Florida Gets New MMJ Stores</h3>

RISE Dispensaries, a cannabis retail chain owned by Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTII#CSE">GTII</a>) (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTCQX">GTBIF</a>) opened two RISE Dispensaries in the Sunshine State - one in Tampa and the other in Crystal River - on December 1.

These store openings bring the company&rsquo;s retail footprint to 13 statewide and 89 nationwide.

RISE Dispensary Tampa will host a grand opening celebration on Saturday, Dec. 16, where profits from the day will be donated to the Tu Canna Foundation. RISE Dispensary Crystal River will host a grand opening celebration next Friday, Dec. 15, with profits benefitting The Bridge 4 Veterans.

Cannabis giant Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (CSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURA#CSE">CURA</a>) (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTCQX">CURLF</a>) kicked off medical cannabis sales at its 61st retail location in Florida, located at 3704 84th Avenue Circle E in Sarasota last week.

Curaleaf&#39;s second Sarasota dispensary will offer a curated menu of premium cannabis products, featuring a selection of flower and pre-rolls, JAMS and Blue Kudu edibles, as well as the top-selling Select line that&nbsp;boasts&nbsp;Select Briq, Select Live Rosin, Select Live Rosin X Bites and the innovative vape hardware, Cliq by Select.

<h3>Cannabis Lounges, Delivery And New Stores In US And Canada</h3>

CuraScientific Corp&rsquo;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSTF#OTC">CSTF</a>) subsidiary, Cal Care Grp. Inc., opened its wholesale retail store in Palm Desert on Friday, Dec. 1. The new retail location offers a full suite of premium, artisanal cannabis products sold under its consumer brands, &lsquo;JW Brands&rsquo; and &lsquo;Chad Enterprises.&#39;

As Ohio&#39;s GOP-controlled Senate has passed a revised bill that would allow adults to start buying cannabis from existing medical marijuana dispensaries as soon as 90 days, a multi-state operator expanded its presence statewide. Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. (CSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAWH#CSE">AAWH</a>) (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAWH#OTCQX">AAWH</a>) announced its plans to open an Ascend Dispensary Outlet, located at 6019 Milan Road in Sandusky. The dispensary will be the company&rsquo;s third in the state and 33rd across its seven-state footprint.

In Hawaii, Maui Grown Therapies announced the grand opening opened its &quot;Kihei Express&quot; dispensary last week, located in the Kihei Shopping complex alongside 24-hour Longs Drugs, and Da Kitchen restaurant. Maui Grown&#39;s Kihei Express is the company&#39;s third dispensary location following the loss of its Lahaina dispensary in the wildfire.

On Monday, the first Illinois Planet 13 Holdings Inc.&rsquo;s (CSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTH#CSE">PLTH</a>)(OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLNH#OTCQX">PLNH</a>) store, kicked off cannabis sales. The 4,000-square-foot dispensary is located at 4000 Northpoint Blvd in Waukegan, 30 miles north of Chicago.

Thrive Cannabis Marketplace announced last month that its first cannabis lounge, Smoke and Mirrors&nbsp;will open&nbsp;later this year. The release said Smoke and Mirrors plans to open at 2975 South Sammy Davis Jr. Drive and will future a &ldquo;curated menu of cannabis products,&rdquo; and &ldquo;one-of-a-kind&rdquo; infused food and beverage menu items.

In the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee&nbsp;a delivery service is making waves. Spliffy is offering a unique range of products, including legal cannabis items, alcohol, nicotine vapes, and munchies. From traditional options to cutting-edge selections like THCa, Spliffy&#39;s inventory mirrors offerings of local dispensaries or smoke shops.

Canadian cannabis retailer High Tide Inc.&rsquo;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HITI#NASDAQ">HITI</a>) (TSXV:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HITI#TSXV">HITI</a>) (FSE: 2LYA) cannabis store located at 481 River Avenue in Winnipeg, Manitoba launched sales of recreational cannabis products and consumption accessories for adult use on Friday, Dec. 1. This opening will mark High Tide&#39;s 159th Canna Cabana branded retail cannabis location in Canada, the 11th in Manitoba, and the 6th store in Winnipeg, the capital city of the province.

<div class="p-rich_text_section">Photo: Courtesy of <a href="https://unsplash.com/@budding?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Budding </a>on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/person-holding-grey-tongs-and-kush-h3PWUqxpP_0?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a></div>

Here's Where To Buy Legal Weed: New Stores Kicking Off Cannabis Sales Just In Time For The Holidays

CuraScientific Corp. (OTCPK:CSTF) has entered into an agreement with My Green Network (KGJMK OpCo, Inc.) in Santa Ana, California to showcase and sell their brand products.

The agreement, dated May 22, 2023, with My Green Network allows the company to showcase and distribute their own brand of cannabis products and expand their existing routes to cover the entire Inland Empire and Orange County.

William Reed, CEO, stated, &ldquo;There&rsquo;s a very strong brand fit and a lot of customer fit for us in our existing area and new area of Santa Ana and Costa Mesa. Orange County has an amazing demographic. The county features a diverse economy, a healthy mix of real estate, tourism, technology and finance, boosted by a strong base of highly educated and well-paid professionals and entrepreneurs.&rdquo;

Reed added, &ldquo;California offers the largest and most profitable cannabis revenue in the world. Orange County, California, is one of the most untapped markets in the United States for retail cannabis sales, according to industry professionals where cannabis has been legal since November 2016. Santa Ana, the second largest city in Orange County, has emerged as Orange County&rsquo;s model for a calm, well regulated, taxpaying cannabis market. With 3.2 million residents in the county, and 33 other Orange County cities not allowing retail cannabis stores, Santa Ana is reaping the tax benefits as a regional cannabis mecca.&rdquo;

About CuraScientific 

CuraScientific is an alternative lifestyle company that owns and operates various businesses licensed to manufacture, distribute and deliver brand name and proprietary natural-based cannabis and kava products for consumers seeking healthier choices to relieve stress and anxiety.

Photo: Benzinga edit with photos by jarmoluk and lindsayfox by Pixabay

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