ETF Opportunities Trust Cultivar ETF (BATS: CVAR)

Latest news for ETF Opportunities Trust Cultivar ETF (BATS:CVAR)

Industrials

Basic Materials

Financial Services

Technology

Consumer Defensive

Healthcare

Utilities

Consumer Cyclical

Communication Services

Real Estate

Energy

Other

To achieve its investment objective, the Fund invests primarily in equity securities traded on U.S. exchanges of any size that the Funds investment adviser, Cultivar Capital, Inc. (the Adviser), believes are under-valued, or under-appreciated, by other participants in the broader equity market. In selecting securities for the Fund, the Adviser screens on an ongoing basis the Funds investment universe seeking such securities using an initial valuation assessment that is primarily quantitative, based on cash flow. The Advisers discounted cash flow model uses several key inputs to assess each securitys estimated intrinsic value.

Healthcare Services Group Inc

Core Laboratories Inc

Proto Labs Inc

Southwest Airlines Co.

Newmont Corp.

Barrick Gold Corporation

Cultivar ETF

Portland,,Oregon,-may,11,2019:,Southwest,Airlines,Passenger,Planes,At

Equities

Large Cap

News

CVAR

JETS

Southwest Airlines enters SAF supply agreement with Valero. Southwest will purchase a minimum of 3.6 million gallons of neat SAF for use in its operations as early as Q4 2024.

Southwest&#39;s Sustainable Fuel Push: Deal With Valero Set To Fuel Chicago Midway Operations

Businessman.Looking.MagnifyingGlass.Shutterstock

Markets

General

Lazard collaborates with Elaia Partners to establish Lazard Elaia Capital, aiming to become a prominent European tech investment player by 2025.

Lazard Partners With Elaia To Launch European Tech Investment Powerhouse

ETF Opportunities Trust Cultivar ETF

TD Cowen analyst Jared Levine maintains Trinet Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TNET#NYSE">TNET</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $92 to $104.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

TNET

TD Cowen Maintains Buy on Trinet Group, Raises Price Target to $104

WIIM

JFIN

Jiayin Group shares are trading lower after the company reported a year-over-year decrease in Q3 EPS results.

PDYN

RCAT

Red Cat and Palladyne AI shares are trading higher after announcing a partnership expansion for teal drones.

XPeng Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPEV#NYSE">XPEV</a>) shares are trading slightly higher on Wednesday, following mixed third-quarter results from its rival, NIO Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NIO#NYSE">NIO</a>).
NIO&#8217;s fiscal third quarter revenue totaled 18.67 billion yuan ($2.66 billion), down 2.1% year-over-year but up 7.0% from the previous quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.70 billion. The company posted an adjusted loss per share of 2.14 yuan (31 cents), a slight improvement from a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42084907/nio-q3-earnings-11-6-gain-in-vehicle-deliveries-margins-improve-issues-robust-q4-delivery-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">2.28 yuan loss in the same period last year.</a>
China&#8217;s $376 billion electric vehicle (EV) market continues to attract new entrants, including companies outside the traditional automotive sector, like makers of vacuum cleaners and hair dryers, according to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3286904/chinas-ev-market-lures-new-entrants-eyes-byds-crown-great-peril" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> from the South China Morning Post.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/24/11/42068742/sony-eyes-japans-kadokawa-to-strengthen-gaming-and-anime-dominance" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sony Eyes Japan&#8217;s Kadokawa to Strengthen Gaming and Anime Dominance</a>
Despite optimism, the domestic EV market, the world&#8217;s largest, is projected to stagnate over the next two years in terms of revenue growth, the report read.
In contrast, XPeng is projecting robust fourth-quarter vehicle deliveries between 87,000 and 91,000, reflecting <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42057872/xpeng-q3-earnings-over-18-topline-growth-deliveries-up-double-digit-percentage-margins-climb-over-15-ceo-eyes-ai-leadership" rel="noreferrer noopener">year-on-year growth of 44.6% to 51.3%</a>. The company also expects fourth-quarter revenue to range from 15.3 billion to 16.2 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 17.2% to 24.1%, surpassing the consensus estimate of 14.77 billion yuan.
XPeng&#8217;s flying car subsidiary, Xpeng Aeroht, made significant progress at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, securing 2,008 pre-orders for its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/11/41946780/whats-going-on-with-xpeng-stock-wednesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">modular flying car, the Land Aircraft Carrier</a>.
Despite these developments, XPeng&#8217;s stock has dropped over 30% in the past year. Investors seeking exposure to XPeng can access the stock through the SPDR S&amp;P Kensho Smart Mobility ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HAIL#NYSE">HAIL</a>).
Price Action: XPEV shares are trading higher by 2.04% to $12.78 at last check Wednesday.
Photo via Shutterstock
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42082386" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla&#8217;s Chinese Rival Xpeng Vows To &#8216;Do Whatever It Takes To Be Competitive&#8217; Amid Donald Trump&#8217;s Tariff Threat</a></li>
</ul>

Movers

Media

HAIL

XPEV

What's Going On With XPeng Stock Today?

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on Microsoft.
Looking at options history for Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) we detected 10 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 30% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 50% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 5 are puts, for a total amount of $468,781 and 5, calls, for a total amount of $513,015.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $200.0 to $480.0 for Microsoft during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Microsoft's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Microsoft's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $200.0 to $480.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Microsoft 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732115900_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>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$224.55</td>
<td>$222.65</td>
<td>$224.55</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$314.2K</td>
<td>173</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$82.95</td>
<td>$78.45</td>
<td>$81.17</td>
<td>$480.00</td>
<td>$121.7K</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$7.75</td>
<td>$7.75</td>
<td>$7.75</td>
<td>$410.00</td>
<td>$109.2K</td>
<td>7.5K</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/22/24</td>
<td>$4.95</td>
<td>$4.8</td>
<td>$4.93</td>
<td>$415.00</td>
<td>$98.7K</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$16.95</td>
<td>$16.75</td>
<td>$16.95</td>
<td>$365.00</td>
<td>$81.3K</td>
<td>999</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Microsoft</h3>
Microsoft develops and licenses consumer and enterprise software. It is known for its Windows operating systems and Office productivity suite. The company is organized into three equally sized broad segments: productivity and business processes (legacy Microsoft Office, cloud-based Office 365, Exchange, SharePoint, Skype, LinkedIn, Dynamics), intelligence cloud (infrastructure- and platform-as-a-service offerings Azure, Windows Server OS, SQL Server), and more personal computing (Windows Client, Xbox, Bing search, display advertising, and Surface laptops, tablets, and desktops).
Having examined the options trading patterns of Microsoft, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Present Market Standing of Microsoft</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 2,124,214, with MSFT's price down by -1.1%, positioned at $413.2.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 69 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Microsoft</h3>
A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $508.0.
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 Truist Securities keeps a Buy rating on Microsoft with a target price of $600. 
&#x2A; An analyst from JP Morgan has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Microsoft, which currently sits at a price target of $465. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Bernstein continues to hold a Outperform rating for Microsoft, targeting a price of $500. 
&#x2A; An analyst from TD Cowen has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Microsoft, which currently sits at a price target of $475. 
&#x2A; An analyst from UBS has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Microsoft, which currently sits at a price target of $500. 
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 Microsoft with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

MSFT

Decoding Microsoft's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Core Scientific. Our analysis of options history for Core Scientific (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CORZ#NASDAQ">CORZ</a>) revealed 23 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 52% of traders were bullish, while 43% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 5 were puts, with a value of $1,502,640, and 18 were calls, valued at $937,848.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $12.0 to $24.0 for Core Scientific during the past quarter. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Core Scientific'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 Core Scientific's whale activity within a strike price range from $12.0 to $24.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Core Scientific Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732115895_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>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CORZ</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.9</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$436.8K</td>
<td>5.2K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CORZ</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$352.4K</td>
<td>5.2K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CORZ</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.9</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$327.2K</td>
<td>5.2K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CORZ</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$293.7K</td>
<td>5.2K</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CORZ</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$5.3</td>
<td>$5.2</td>
<td>$5.3</td>
<td>$12.00</td>
<td>$132.5K</td>
<td>6.7K</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Core Scientific</h3>
Core Scientific Inc is engaged in Blockchain and AI Infrastructure, Digital Asset Self-Mining, Premium Hosting, Blockchain Technology, and Artificial Intelligence related services. The business operates in two segments being; Equipment Sales and Hosting which consists of blockchain infrastructure, third-party hosting business and equipment sales to customers. Mining segment consists of digital asset mining for its account. The blockchain business generates revenue from the sale of consumption-based contracts and by providing hosting services. The digital asset mining segment earns revenue from operating a firm's owned computer equipment as part of a pool of users that process transactions conducted on one or more blockchain networks. In exchange, it receives digital currency assets.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Core Scientific, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Where Is Core Scientific Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 2,869,522, the price of CORZ is up 2.76% at $16.93. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 111 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Core Scientific</h3>
Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $18.4.
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; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Canaccord Genuity continues to hold a Buy rating for Core Scientific, targeting a price of $17. 
&#x2A; An analyst from BTIG persists with their Buy rating on Core Scientific, maintaining a target price of $19. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Macquarie keeps a Outperform rating on Core Scientific with a target price of $19. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Compass Point persists with their Buy rating on Core Scientific, maintaining a target price of $20. 
&#x2A; An analyst from B. Riley Securities persists with their Buy rating on Core Scientific, maintaining a target price of $17. 
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 Core Scientific, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Core Scientific, Inc. - Class A Common Stock

CORZ

What the Options Market Tells Us About Core Scientific

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on United Airlines Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</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 UAL, 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 16 uncommon options trades for United Airlines Holdings.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 37% bullish and 50%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 10 are puts, for a total amount of $584,245, and 6 are calls, for a total amount of $354,291.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $57.5 to $130.0 for United Airlines Holdings over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in United Airlines Holdings's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to United Airlines Holdings's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $57.5 to $130.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>United Airlines Holdings Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732115891_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</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>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$15.85</td>
<td>$15.65</td>
<td>$15.75</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$114.9K</td>
<td>200</td>
<td>73</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UAL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/22/24</td>
<td>$0.7</td>
<td>$0.61</td>
<td>$0.7</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$108.2K</td>
<td>4.7K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$6.1</td>
<td>$5.9</td>
<td>$5.95</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$104.7K</td>
<td>623</td>
<td>50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.5</td>
<td>$4.66</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$93.0K</td>
<td>600</td>
<td>204</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UAL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$35.95</td>
<td>$35.5</td>
<td>$35.5</td>
<td>$57.50</td>
<td>$88.7K</td>
<td>4.9K</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About United Airlines Holdings</h3>
United Airlines is a major us network carrier with hubs in San Francisco, Chicago, Houston, Denver, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, and Washington, D.C. United operates a hub-and-spoke system that is more focused on international and long-haul travel than its large us peers.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with United Airlines Holdings, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of United Airlines Holdings</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 822,554, the price of UAL is down by -2.29%, reaching $92.11.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 62 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on United Airlines Holdings</h3>
Over the past month, 3 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $131.33333333333334.
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; An analyst from TD Cowen persists with their Buy rating on United Airlines Holdings, maintaining a target price of $125. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Barclays keeps a Overweight rating on United Airlines Holdings with a target price of $150. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Goldman Sachs downgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $119. 
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 United Airlines Holdings with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

What the Options Market Tells Us About United Airlines Holdings

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WSM#NYSE">WSM</a>) shares skyrocketed after the company reported better-than-expected <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42086330/williams-sonoma-inc-announces-third-quarter-2024-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">third-quarter 2024 results</a>, announced a new $1 billion buyback program, and raised its outlook.
The company reported third-quarter adjusted earnings per share of $1.96, beating the analyst consensus of $1.78.
Quarterly sales declined by 2.9% year-over-year to $1.8 billion, beating the street view of $1.79 billion. Comparable brand revenue was down 2.9% year-over-year.
The quarter showed continued improvement in the company&#8217;s sales trend and market-share gains. 
Williams-Sonoma CEO Laura Alber said &#8220;comp came in at -2.9%, with an operating margin of 17.8%, delivering a 7.1% increase in earnings per share to $1.96.&#8221;
The gross margin expanded by 238 basis points to 46.7% from last year, driven by higher merchandise margins of +130bps and supply chain efficiencies of +100bps.
Q3 operating income was $320.64 million (+1.8% YoY), and the margin rose 80 bps to 17.8%. Merchandise inventories grew 3.8% YoY to $1.45 billion.
The company maintained a liquidity position of $827 million in cash and operating cash flow of $254 million. It returned $606 million to stockholders through $533 million in stock repurchases and $73 million in dividends.
Buyback: In September 2024, the board approved a $1 billion stock repurchase. The plan is effective after the $293 million remaining from the March 2024 program is utilized. Repurchases will occur via open market or private transactions based on market conditions.
2024 Outlook, raised: Williams-Sonoma now expects a net revenue decline of -3.0% to -1.5% (prior view -4.0% to -1.5%) with comps of -4.5% to -3.0% (prior view -5.5% to -3.0%).
WSM raised operating margin guidance to 18.4%-18.8% (17.8%-18.2% excluding a 60bps first-quarter adjustment).
Over the long term, the company continues to expect mid-to-high single-digit annual net revenue growth with an operating margin in the mid-to-high teens.
Price Action: Williams-Sonoma shares are trading higher by 25% at $171.55 at the last check Wednesday.
Image: Shutterstock

Guidance

Buybacks

Williams-Sonoma Shares Spike On Heels Of Earnings Report, $1 Billion Buyback Plan

RERE

ATRenew shares are trading higher after the company reported better-than-expected Q3 sales results.

VREX

Varex Imaging shares are trading higher after the company reported better-than-expected Q4 financial results and issued Q1 revenue guidance above estimates.

On Wednesday, Quantum-Si Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSI#NASDAQ">QSI</a>) stock traded over 100% higher after the protein sequencing company announced a collaboration with NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) to develop its new proteomics platform, Proteus, and advance Quantum-Si&#8217;s core technologies of amino acid binders and aminopeptidases using NVIDIA AI and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42084635/quantum-si-to-develop-acceleration-platform-and-advance-core-technologies-in-collaboration-with-nv" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accelerated computing</a>.
This collaboration aims to significantly enhance data processing speeds to handle the increased data volume from Proteus.
&#8220;We are thrilled to collaborate with NVIDIA to make single-molecule proteomics more accessible to researchers,&#8221; said John Vieceli, Ph.D., chief product officer of Quantum-Si. We have been leveraging AI protein structure prediction tools with <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fnam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.nvidia.com%252Fen-us%252Fclara%252Fbiopharma%252F%26data%3D05%257C02%257Ckatkinson%2540quantum-si.com%257C0f550c9f118049de621408dd05c4bfd3%257C48afde5b18304e18a221f6417a5a1bde%257C0%257C0%257C638673064827649542%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3D1FrNzFk8l3KEsejU8%252BV87mg2fw79CNi9nCAvD6zCP%252Fw%253D%26reserved%3D0&amp;esheet=54155579&amp;newsitemid=20241120405534&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=NVIDIA+BioNeMo&amp;index=2&amp;md5=c77614581e3d4ab90f107177f38939c0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NVIDIA BioNeMo</a>, both in the cloud and on-premises to design new and improved biomolecules.&#8221;
Concurrently, Quantum-Si and&nbsp;SkyWaterTechnology will jointly expand their relationship to support the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42084057/quantum-si-expands-collaboration-with-skywater-to-develop-new-chip-production-process-critical-for" rel="noreferrer noopener">development of Proteus</a>.
The expanded collaboration will develop the consumable for Proteus, enabling simultaneous large-factor protein sequencing.
Quantum-Si and SkyWater began partnering in 2021 on the first-generation Platinum&nbsp;platform and announced the transition to support production in the second quarter of 2024.
SkyWater will continue to supply the consumables for the Platinum Pro product as the two companies expand their engagement to support the commercialization of Proteus.
Quantum-Si also partnered with Planet Innovation to develop and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42083478/quantum-si-and-planet-innovation-to-partner-on-proteus" rel="noreferrer noopener">manufacture Proteus</a>.
Currently, Planet Innovation is the contract manufacturer for Quantum-Si&#8217;s Platinum&nbsp;Pro instrument, which will debut in the first half of 2025.
On Wednesday, Quantum-Si announced a distribution agreement with Avantor Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVTR#NASDAQ">AVTR</a>).
Through this collaboration, Avantor will distribute Quantum-Si&#8217;s Next-Generation Protein Sequencing (NGPS) portfolio to researchers across all market segments in the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42085520/avantor-to-distribute-quantum-sis-next-generation-protein-sequencing-technology" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. and Canada</a>.
The distribution agreement enables Avantor to offer Quantum-Si&#8217;s protein sequencing technology to a broad range of laboratories focused on proteomics.
Quantum-Si&#8217;s platform leverages single-molecule sequencing technology, with applications across protein and biomarker identification, antibody characterization, protein barcoding, and post-translational modification analysis to deliver insights into protein structure and function.
Price Action: QSI stock is up 119% at $1.39 during the premarket session at last check Wednesday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/contracts/24/11/42087743/exxon-mobils-lithium-leap-100000-metric-tons-to-fuel-lg-chems-us-plant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Exxon Mobil&#8217;s Lithium Leap: 100,000 Metric Tons To Fuel LG Chem&#8217;s US Plant</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

Health Care

Contracts

Trading Ideas

AVTR

NVDA

Nvidia Partners With Quantum-Si To Advance Single-Molecule Analysis

HC Wainwright &amp; Co. analyst Mitchell Kapoor reiterates Halozyme Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HALO#NASDAQ">HALO</a>) with a Buy and maintains $68 price target.

Reiteration

HALO

HC Wainwright & Co. Reiterates Buy on Halozyme Therapeutics, Maintains $68 Price Target

Yiren Digital shares are trading lower after the company reported a year-over-year decrease in Q3 EPS results.

FBRX

Forte Biosciences Shares Resume Trading

Barclays analyst Seth Sigman maintains Lowe's Companies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LOW#NYSE">LOW</a>) with a Equal-Weight and raises the price target from $229 to $245.

Barclays Maintains Equal-Weight on Lowe's Companies, Raises Price Target to $245

Alpha Tau Medical (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRTS#NASDAQ">DRTS</a>) reported quarterly losses of $(0.10) per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $(0.13) by 23.08 percent. This is a 42.86 percent decrease over losses of $(0.07) per share from the same period last year.

Earnings

DRTS

Alpha Tau Medical Q3 EPS $(0.10) Beats $(0.13) Estimate

G. Willi-Food Intl (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WILC#NASDAQ">WILC</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.40 per share. This is a 344.44 percent increase over earnings of $0.09 per share from the same period last year. The company reported $41.20 million in sales this quarter. This is a 27.16 percent increase over sales of $32.40 million the same period last year.

WILC

G. Willi-Food Intl Q3 EPS $0.40 Up From $0.09 YoY, Sales $41.20M Up From $32.40M YoY

Evogene (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVGN#NASDAQ">EVGN</a>) will release its quarterly earnings report on Thursday, 2024-11-21. Here's a brief overview for investors ahead of the announcement.
Analysts anticipate Evogene to report an earnings per share (EPS) of $-1.01.
The market awaits Evogene's announcement, with hopes high for news of surpassing estimates and providing upbeat guidance for the next quarter.
It's important for new investors to understand that guidance can be a significant driver of stock prices.
<h3>Past Earnings Performance</h3>
During the last quarter, the company reported an EPS beat by $0.14, leading to a 9.3% increase in the share price on the subsequent day.
Here's a look at Evogene's past performance and the resulting price change:

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Quarter</th>
<th>Q2 2024</th>
<th>Q1 2024</th>
<th>Q4 2023</th>
<th>Q3 2023</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>EPS Estimate</td>
<td>-1.20</td>
<td>-0.9</td>
<td>-1.4</td>
<td>-1.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EPS Actual</td>
<td>-1.06</td>
<td>-0.8</td>
<td>-1.3</td>
<td>-0.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Price Change %</td>
<td>9.0%</td>
<td>14.000000000000002%</td>
<td>-3.0%</td>
<td>1.0%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732115069_0.png" alt="eps graph" />
<h3>Stock Performance</h3>
Shares of Evogene were trading at $1.725 as of November 19. Over the last 52-week period, shares are down 71.0%. Given that these returns are generally negative, long-term shareholders are likely a little upset going into this earnings release. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EVGN/earnings">To track all earnings releases for Evogene visit their earnings calendar on our site.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

EVGN

A Glimpse of Evogene's Earnings Potential

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Oklo (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OKLO#NYSE">OKLO</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 OKLO, 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 18 uncommon options trades for Oklo.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 27% bullish and 55%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 3 are puts, for a total amount of $179,530, and 15 are calls, for a total amount of $757,027.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $18.0 to $26.0 for Oklo over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Oklo'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 Oklo's whale activity within a strike price range from $18.0 to $26.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Oklo Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732115026_0_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>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>OKLO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$5.0</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
<td>$141.0K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td align="right">552</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OKLO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$2.4</td>
<td>$2.2</td>
<td>$2.35</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$117.5K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td align="right">534</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OKLO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/22/24</td>
<td>$0.6</td>
<td>$0.5</td>
<td>$0.55</td>
<td>$18.50</td>
<td>$75.5K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td align="right">10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OKLO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$68.7K</td>
<td>3.7K</td>
<td align="right">702</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OKLO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/13/24</td>
<td>$2.3</td>
<td>$2.3</td>
<td>$2.3</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$64.1K</td>
<td>105</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Oklo</h3>
Oklo Inc is developing advanced fission power plants to provide clean, reliable, and affordable energy at scale. It is pursuing two complementary tracks to address this demand: providing reliable, commercial-scale energy to customers; and selling used nuclear fuel recycling services to the U.S. market. The Company plans to commercialize its liquid metal fast reactor technology with the Aurora powerhouse product line. The first commercial Aurora powerhouse is designed to produce up to 15 megawatts of electricity (MWe) on both recycled nuclear fuel and fresh fuel.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Oklo, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Current Position of Oklo</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 6,318,619, the OKLO's price is down by -4.27%, now at $20.87. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 85 days.</li>
</ul>
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>.
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Oklo options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

OKLO

Looking At Oklo's Recent Unusual Options Activity

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Palantir Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions 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 PLTR, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 8 options trades for Palantir Technologies.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 25% bullish and 37%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $97,800, and 7, calls, for a total amount of $588,330.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $55.0 and $95.0 for Palantir Technologies, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Palantir Technologies'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 Palantir Technologies's whale activity within a strike price range from $55.0 to $95.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Palantir Technologies Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732115078_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>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$16.2</td>
<td>$15.7</td>
<td>$15.7</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$314.0K</td>
<td>4.4K</td>
<td>203</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>11/22/24</td>
<td>$2.01</td>
<td>$1.99</td>
<td>$2.0</td>
<td>$62.00</td>
<td>$97.8K</td>
<td>10.1K</td>
<td>3.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/06/24</td>
<td>$4.6</td>
<td>$4.45</td>
<td>$4.6</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$91.9K</td>
<td>4.4K</td>
<td>666</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/06/24</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$4.3</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$54.6K</td>
<td>4.4K</td>
<td>265</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$7.6</td>
<td>$7.4</td>
<td>$7.46</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$44.4K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Palantir Technologies</h3>
Palantir is an analytical software company that focuses on leveraging data to create efficiencies in its clients' organizations. The firm serves commercial and government clients via its Foundry and Gotham platforms, respectively. The Denver-based company was founded in 2003 and went public in 2020.
In light of the recent options history for Palantir Technologies, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Where Is Palantir Technologies Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 8,757,849, with PLTR's price down by -1.69%, positioned at $61.91.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 75 days.</li>
</ul>
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>.
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Palantir Technologies options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

PLTR

Smart Money Is Betting Big In PLTR Options

Southwest Airlines Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) shares are trading lower on Thursday. The company disclosed a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supply agreement with a subsidiary of Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VLO#NYSE">VLO</a>).



This two-year agreement aims to deliver sustainable aviation fuel to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) and marks the state&#8217;s largest announced SAF supply agreement.



As per the deal, Southwest Airlines will purchase a minimum of 3.6 million gallons of neat SAF—approximately 12 million gallons when blended—for its operations starting as early as the fourth quarter of 2024.



The airline also has the option to acquire up to 25 million gallons of neat SAF (around 84 million gallons blended) during the agreement&#8217;s term.



The neat SAF is expected to be produced from waste-based&nbsp;feedstocks, such as used cooking oil, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/41384642" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal tallow, and distiller&#8217;s corn oil.</a>



This blended volume could account for up to 35% of Southwest&#8217;s jet fuel usage at MDW based on the previous year&#8217;s consumption.



Notably, Diamond Green Diesel, a joint venture between a Valero affiliate and Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAR#NYSE">DAR</a>), will supply the neat SAF.



SAF will necessitate collaboration across and beyond the value chain. With this SAF volume, Southwest can enhance access for corporate and cargo customers to promote the use of SAF in its operations.



This week, the company issued a response to&nbsp;Elliott Investment Management&#8217;s call for a<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41339656/southwest-airlines-stock-is-rising-tuesday-whats-going-on" rel="noreferrer noopener"> special meeting of shareholders</a>.



&#8220;Elliott&#8217;s Special Meeting request is unnecessary and inappropriate considering the extreme nature of Elliott&#8217;s demands. The timing of Elliott&#8217;s request to apparently pursue Board control appears designed to maximize disruption of Southwest&#8217;s execution of its important business transformation underway as we approach one of the busiest travel periods of the year,&#8221; the company said in a statement.



Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;U.S. Global Jets ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JETS#NYSE">JETS</a>) and ETF Opportunities Trust Cultivar ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVAR#BATS">CVAR</a>).



Price Action: LUV shares are down 2.45% at $30.15 at the last check Thursday.



Image by Around the World Photos via Shutterstock



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41336413/oil-prices-take-largest-plunge-in-over-a-year-as-israel-vows-to-spare-iranian-facilities-energy-stoc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oil Prices Take Largest Plunge In Over A Year As Israel Vows To Spare Iranian Facilities: Energy Stocks Sink, Airlines, Cruise Lines Ral</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41336413/oil-prices-take-largest-plunge-in-over-a-year-as-israel-vows-to-spare-iranian-facilities-energy-stoc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ly</a></li>
</ul>

Southwest's Sustainable Fuel Push: Deal With Valero Set To Fuel Chicago Midway Operations

Lazard, Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LAZ#NYSE">LAZ</a>) said on Thursday that it had inked a pact with an established&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/04/b38306545/lazard-and-elaia-partners-form-strategic-partnership-including-the-launch-of-lazard-elaia-capital-" rel="noreferrer noopener">European venture capital firm, Elaia Partners.</a>



The company plans to create a leading European player focused on investment in technology companies, supporting them at all stages of their development, from seed to listing on public markets.&nbsp;



The partnership involves the creation of a new Paris-based asset management company, Lazard Elaia Capital (LEC), which will be 75%-owned by Lazard and 25%-owned by Elaia Partners.&nbsp;



This investment platform targets the capital requirements of upcoming technology and deep tech leaders in late-stage and growth equity.&nbsp;



An inaugural fund focusing on Europe is slated for launch by 2025, pending regulatory clearance.



As part of this strategic partnership, Lazard has acquired a minority stake in Elaia Partners. The agreement provides the option for Lazard to purchase up to 100% ownership over time.



&#8220;The creation of this partnership between Lazard and Elaia Partners will enable us to offer our clients innovative, private market solutions focusing on the growing technology industry in Europe,&#8221; said Evan Russo, Chief Executive Officer, Lazard Asset Management.



According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>, LAZ stock has gained over 9% in the past year. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via ETF Opportunities Trust Cultivar ETF(BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVAR#BATS">CVAR</a>).



Read Next:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/04/38270560/joby-aviation-may-launch-flying-taxis-by-2025-whats-going-on" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joby Aviation May Launch Flying Taxis By 2025 &#8211; What&#8217;s Going On?</a>



Price Action: LAZ shares traded higher by 0.93% to $37.79 on Thursday.



Photo via Shutterstock

Comments

ETF Opportunities Trust Cultivar ETF

News

Latest news for ETF Opportunities Trust Cultivar ETF (BATS:CVAR)

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Popular Channels

Tools & Features

Partners & Contributors

About Benzinga