VanEck Durable High Dividend ETF (BATS: DURA)

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The Fund normally invests at least 80 percent of its total assets in securities that comprise the Funds benchmark index. The Morningstar US Dividend Valuation Index is comprised of securities of companies with a high dividend yield, strong financial health and an attractive uncertainty-adjusted valuation. Companies are selected by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar or the Index provider) from the universe of companies represented in the Morningstar US Market Index (the Parent Index), a broad market index representing 97 percent of U.S. market capitalization that meet certain trading frequency, exchange listing and liquidity requirements. The Morningstar US Dividend Valuation Index targets a select group of eligible securities from the Parent Index that rank in: (i) the top 50 percent as measured by trailing twelve month dividend yield; (ii) the top 50 percent of their peer group (there are two peer groups: companies that belong to the financial sector of Morningstar and the rest of the eligible universe) as measured by its distance to default score; and (iii) the top 70 percent of Morningstars star score metric. An eligible security must meet each of these three independent criteria to qualify for inclusion in the Morningstar US Dividend Valuation Index. Distance to default score is a measure of the financial stability of a company as determined by recent market data and financial accounting reports. Morningstars star score metric represents uncertainty-adjusted security valuation, which reflects the relationship between a companys market price and its fair value (as determined by Morningstars standardized, proprietary valuation model).

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U.S. companies are rushing to repurchase large volumes of shares to take advantage of recent stock market volatility and reassure investors as growth slows, reported Financial Times.

US Companies See Record Stock Buy Back In 2022 with $319B Authorized YTD: FT

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Old Dominion Freight Line (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/odfl#NASDAQ">ODFL</a>) came out with quarterly earnings of $1.48 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.45 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.33 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 2.07%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this trucking company would post earnings of $1.33 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.34, delivering a surprise of 0.75%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates four times.
Old Dominion, which belongs to the Zacks Transportation - Truck industry, posted revenues of $1.5 billion for the quarter ended June 2024, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.04%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $1.41 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates just once over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock&#39;s immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management&#39;s commentary on the earnings call.
Old Dominion shares have lost about 4.4% since the beginning of the year versus the S&amp;P 500&#39;s gain of 16.5%.
What&#39;s Next for Old Dominion?
While Old Dominion has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors&#39; minds is: what&#39;s next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company&#39;s earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Old Dominion: unfavorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company&#39;s just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to underperform the market in the near future.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $1.59 on $1.61 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $5.90 on $6.15 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Transportation - Truck is currently in the bottom 6% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
One other stock from the same industry, Forward Air (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fwrd#NASDAQ">FWRD</a>), is yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2024.
This contractor for the air cargo industry is expected to post quarterly loss of $0.07 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -107.7%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
Forward Air&#39;s revenues are expected to be $643.8 million, up 60.1% from the year-ago quarter.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2307549/old-dominion-freight-line-odfl-tops-q2-earnings-estimates?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-tale_of_the_tape|yseop_template_4-2307549">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

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FWRD

ODFL

Old Dominion Freight Line Tops Q2 Earnings Estimates

Citigroup analyst Ronald Josey maintains Alphabet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $190 to $212.

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GOOG

GOOGL

Citigroup Maintains Buy on Alphabet, Raises Price Target to $212

Interpublic Group (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ipg#NYSE">IPG</a>) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.61 per share, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. This compares to earnings of $0.74 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
A quarter ago, it was expected that this marketing and advertising company would post earnings of $0.36 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.36, delivering no surprise.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates just once.
Interpublic, which belongs to the Zacks Advertising and Marketing industry, posted revenues of $2.33 billion for the quarter ended June 2024, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.10%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $2.33 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates three times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock&#39;s immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management&#39;s commentary on the earnings call.
Interpublic shares have lost about 8.3% since the beginning of the year versus the S&amp;P 500&#39;s gain of 16.5%.
What&#39;s Next for Interpublic?
While Interpublic has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors&#39; minds is: what&#39;s next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company&#39;s earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Interpublic: unfavorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company&#39;s just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to underperform the market in the near future.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.70 on $2.31 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $2.80 on $9.89 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Advertising and Marketing is currently in the bottom 36% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
One other stock from the same industry, National CineMedia (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ncmi#NASDAQ">NCMI</a>), is yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2024.
This theater advertising company is expected to post quarterly loss of $0.08 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +88.6%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 100% lower over the last 30 days to the current level.
National CineMedia&#39;s revenues are expected to be $50.43 million, up 240.8% from the year-ago quarter.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2307552/interpublic-group-ipg-q2-earnings-meet-estimates?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-tale_of_the_tape|yseop_template_4-2307552">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Media

NCMI

Interpublic Group Q2 Earnings Meet Estimates

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Brett Knoblauch reiterates Riot Platforms (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIOT#NASDAQ">RIOT</a>) with a Overweight and maintains $23 price target.

Reiteration

RIOT

Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Overweight on Riot Platforms, Maintains $23 Price Target

International Paper (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ip#NYSE">IP</a>) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.55 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.40 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.59 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 37.50%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this global paper and packaging company would post earnings of $0.23 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.17, delivering a surprise of -26.09%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
International Paper, which belongs to the Zacks Paper and Related Products industry, posted revenues of $4.73 billion for the quarter ended June 2024, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.79%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $4.68 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates just once over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock&#39;s immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management&#39;s commentary on the earnings call.
International Paper shares have added about 27% since the beginning of the year versus the S&amp;P 500&#39;s gain of 16.5%.
What&#39;s Next for International Paper?
While International Paper has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors&#39; minds is: what&#39;s next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company&#39;s earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for International Paper: favorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company&#39;s just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to outperform the market in the near future.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.63 on $4.86 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $2.01 on $19.14 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Paper and Related Products is currently in the top 20% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Another stock from the same industry, Smurfit Westrock (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sw#NYSE">SW</a>), has yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2024. The results are expected to be released on July 30.
This paper and packaging company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.70 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -21.4%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 4.3% lower over the last 30 days to the current level.
Smurfit Westrock&#39;s revenues are expected to be $7.95 billion, up 55.3% from the year-ago quarter.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2307551/international-paper-ip-q2-earnings-surpass-estimates?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-tale_of_the_tape|yseop_template_4-2307551">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

International Paper Q2 Earnings Surpass Estimates

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Andres Sheppard reiterates Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) with a Overweight and maintains $230 price target.

TSLA

Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Overweight on Tesla, Maintains $230 Price Target

CME Group (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cme#NASDAQ">CME</a>) came out with quarterly earnings of $2.56 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.51 per share. This compares to earnings of $2.30 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 1.99%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this parent company of the Chicago Board of Trade and other exchanges would post earnings of $2.44 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.50, delivering a surprise of 2.46%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates four times.
CME, which belongs to the Zacks Securities and Exchanges industry, posted revenues of $1.53 billion for the quarter ended June 2024, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.99%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $1.36 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates four times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock&#39;s immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management&#39;s commentary on the earnings call.
CME shares have lost about 6.3% since the beginning of the year versus the S&amp;P 500&#39;s gain of 16.5%.
What&#39;s Next for CME?
While CME has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors&#39; minds is: what&#39;s next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company&#39;s earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for CME: mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company&#39;s just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $2.36 on $1.44 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $9.77 on $5.92 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Securities and Exchanges is currently in the top 28% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/otcm#OTC">OTCM</a>), another stock in the same industry, has yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2024.
This company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.66 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +15.8%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
OTC Markets Group Inc.&#39;s revenues are expected to be $28.06 million, up 3.1% from the year-ago quarter.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2307550/cme-group-cme-tops-q2-earnings-and-revenue-estimates?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-tale_of_the_tape|yseop_template_4-2307550">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

OTCM

CME Group Tops Q2 Earnings and Revenue Estimates

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6XZKE7a_F4" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6XZKE7a_F4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6XZKE7a_F4</a>

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ISRA

'Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu addresses joint session of Congress'

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Sarah James reiterates HCA Healthcare (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HCA#NYSE">HCA</a>) with a Overweight and maintains $335 price target.

Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Overweight on HCA Healthcare, Maintains $335 Price Target

Teledyne Technologies (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tdy#NYSE">TDY</a>) came out with quarterly earnings of $4.58 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.49 per share. This compares to earnings of $4.67 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 2%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this defense and aerospace industry supplier would post earnings of $4.64 per share when it actually produced earnings of $4.55, delivering a surprise of -1.94%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
Teledyne, which belongs to the Zacks Aerospace - Defense Equipment industry, posted revenues of $1.37 billion for the quarter ended June 2024, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.18%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $1.42 billion. The company has not been able to beat consensus revenue estimates over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock&#39;s immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management&#39;s commentary on the earnings call.
Teledyne shares have lost about 9.9% since the beginning of the year versus the S&amp;P 500&#39;s gain of 16.5%.
What&#39;s Next for Teledyne?
While Teledyne has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors&#39; minds is: what&#39;s next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company&#39;s earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Teledyne: unfavorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company&#39;s just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to underperform the market in the near future.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $5.07 on $1.43 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $19.34 on $5.64 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Aerospace - Defense Equipment is currently in the top 39% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Spirit Aerosystems (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/spr#NYSE">SPR</a>), another stock in the same industry, has yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2024. The results are expected to be released on August 5.
This aircraft parts maker is expected to post quarterly loss of $0.98 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +32.9%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 146% lower over the last 30 days to the current level.
Spirit Aerosystems&#39; revenues are expected to be $1.53 billion, up 12.2% from the year-ago quarter.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2307534/teledyne-technologies-tdy-surpasses-q2-earnings-estimates?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-tale_of_the_tape|yseop_template_4-2307534">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Tech

Teledyne Technologies Surpasses Q2 Earnings Estimates

<a href="https://blogs.bing.com/search/July-2024/generativesearch" title="https://blogs.bing.com/search/July-2024/generativesearch">https://blogs.bing.com/search/July-2024/generativesearch</a> &nbsp;

MSFT

'Introducing Bing Generative Search' - Microsoft

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst C J Muse reiterates NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXPI#NASDAQ">NXPI</a>) with a Overweight and maintains $350 price target.

NXPI

Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Overweight on NXP Semiconductors, Maintains $350 Price Target

Northland Capital Markets analyst Owen Rickert maintains Life Time Group Hldgs (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LTH#NYSE">LTH</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $23 to $27.

Northland Capital Markets Maintains Outperform on Life Time Group Hldgs, Raises Price Target to $27

The SPDR S&amp;P 500 Index (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) opened sharply lower Wednesday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/39932395/tesla-stock-is-sliding-wednesday-whats-going-on">following disappointing earnings reports</a> from mega-cap tech stocks like Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>). But, Cameron Dawson, chief investment officer at NewEdge Wealth, said that it was too early to call a top in the market and that the recent downturn doesn't mean the bull market is necessarily over. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Volatility And Momentum In The Market - Cameron Dawson, CIO NewEdge Wealth" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v8PLTQ26CGg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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"They're upset because they're conditioned to such low volatility, we've been in this unflinching up and to the right type of market so when you get a little tiny ounce of volatility, it feels so foreign to the world we've been in," <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8PLTQ26CGg">Dawson said. </a>See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/39932450/whats-going-on-with-alphabet-stock-wednesday">What&#8217;s Going On With Alphabet Stock Wednesday?</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/39932450/whats-going-on-with-alphabet-stock-wednesday"> </a>Dawson said that the overall trend of the market is still bullish, and thus far on any sustained dips, buyers have come in helping to lift stocks back higher. The VIX, which tracks market volatility, has shot higher by 25% in the last month, an indication that market volatility is on the rise after historically low levels of volatility throughout 2024.
On Wednesday, amid the overall market's downturn, the VIX continued to move higher by more than 10% as traders and investors appeared wary following Google's and Tesla's earnings reports. But, Dawson argued that it's too early to call the recent downturn a trend reversal, and that buyers may be willing to come in and buy the dip.
"This market absolutely demands that you respect the trend," <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8PLTQ26CGg">Dawson said.</a> "Every time we pullback you see buyers step in. It doesn't mean that you can ignore certain risks, it doesn't mean that you can ignore some deterioration under the surface… but overall until we see signs that the trend is truly deteriorating we're still in the ‘respect the trend camp.'&#8221;
&#8220;You can have an uptrend and still have pullbacks, and it's perfectly healthy,&#8221; she added. Read Next:
<ul>
<li> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39934981/us-services-activity-hits-28-month-peak-price-pressures-continue-to-ease-economist-">US Services Activity Hits 28-Month Peak, Price Pressures Continue To Ease: Economist Calls It &#8216;A Goldilocks Scenario&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Cameron Dawson/NewEdge Wealth lolo/Unsplash

Equities

Buy The Dip? Market Expert Says Recent Pullback Part Of Healthy Bull Market: 'A Little Tiny Ounce Of Volatility, It Feels So Foreign'

Vice President Kamala Harris has landed key endorsements and donations from the entertainment industry ahead of her likely nomination for president in<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/2024-election"> the 2024 election.</a>
What Happened: Harris gained support and endorsements<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/07/39892716/nancy-pelosi-endorses-kamala-harris-for-president-full-confidence-that-she-will-lead-us-to-victo"> from key members of Congress</a> in her fight to secure the Democratic Party's nomination for president in the 2024 election.
The vice president is now gaining support from celebrities and entertainment leaders through their words and their wallets.
Walt Disney Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) heiress and philanthropist Abigail Disney is one of the latest to back Harris and her endorsement could be an important one.
"I am supporting her with all my heart," Disney told a New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/live/2024/07/22/us/biden-harris-trump-news-election?smid=url-share#8c1800ca-aa15-593a-bb20-af4bb8cdef80">reporter</a>.
The filmmaker and philanthropist is planning to make a donation to Harris and plans to host a fundraising event for the vice president, as <a href="https://variety.com/2024/biz/news/abigail-disney-kamala-harris-presidential-campaign-donation-1236081632/">reported </a>by Variety.
Disney <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39640413/im-not-going-anywhere-biden-rebuffs-calls-for-withdrawal-from-presidential-election-during-fourth-of">previously said</a> she would no longer donate to the Democratic Party "unless and until" President Joe Biden was replaced in the 2024 election. Disney was a key supporter for Harris being the replacement, saying she could beat Donald Trump.
"If Democrats can find a way to stop quibbling and rallying around her, we can win this election by a lot," Disney previously said. &nbsp;
Disney may not be the biggest donor to the Democratic Party or Harris' campaign, but her name resonates with the entertainment sector and her call to host a fundraising party could be a key for campaign contributions moving forward.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/07/39896462/the-simpsons-does-it-again-could-this-animated-show-veep-barbie-foreshadow-kamala-harris-wi">&#8216;The Simpsons&#8217; Does It Again? Could This Animated Show, &#8216;Veep,&#8217; &#8216;Barbie&#8217; Foreshadow Kamala Harris Winning 2024 Election</a>
Why It's Important: Disney isn't the only member of the entertainment sector to support and donate to Harris.
The vice president picked up<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39932764/kamala-harris-presidential-campaign-secures-7m-from-netflix-co-founder-reed-hastings"> a $7 million donation </a>from Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) co-founder and Executive Chairman Reed Hastings, via a super PAC. The donation marks the largest single candidate donation by Hastings.
"Congrats to Kamala Harris — now is the time to win," Hastings recently <a href="https://x.com/reedhastings/status/1815603833927815360">tweeted</a>.
Actor George Clooney made headlines for supporting Biden and then <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/07/39737498/do-nancy-pelosi-barack-obama-want-joe-biden-to-step-aside-in-2024-election">later writing an op-ed </a>for the president to step down. The actor has pledged his support to Harris since Biden stepped down.
"We're all so excited to do whatever we can to support Vice President Harris in her historic quest," Clooney said in a statement <a href="https://ew.com/george-clooney-endorses-kamala-harris-after-calling-joe-biden-step-down-8682377">shared </a>by Entertainment Weekly.
Similar to Disney, Clooney's support may not be the biggest financially, but comes after calling out the party and for Biden to step aside.
Other celebrities endorsing Harris include Katy Perry, John Legend, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kathy Griffin, Charli XCX, George Takei, Demi Lovato, Cardi B and Sheryl Lee Ralph, according to reports from <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1e5x1yyj5xo">BBC </a>and <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/celebrities-endorsing-kamala-harris-president-1928276">Newsweek</a>.
Harris raised a reported $81 million in the first 24 hours after Biden dropped out of the race.
The entertainment sector has been key for support and donations to Biden in recent years. With many turning against or saying they wouldn't donate until the president stepped down, Harris could benefit from Hollywood in the months ahead.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/07/39919247/who-will-kamala-harris-pick-for-vice-president-crypto-bettors-have-4-favorites-for-democra">Who Will Kamala Harris Pick For Vice President? Crypto Bettors Have 4 Favorites For Democratic Party Running Mate</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Entertainment

NFLX

Kamala Harris Goes Hollywood: Vice President Gets Key Backers Abigail Disney, Reed Hastings, George Clooney And More In 2024 Election Race

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Western Digital (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WDC#NASDAQ">WDC</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 WDC, 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 13 uncommon options trades for Western Digital.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 46% bullish and 46%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 3 are puts, for a total amount of $202,920, and 10 are calls, for a total amount of $484,993.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $60.0 to $80.0 for Western Digital over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Western Digital stands at 2574.6, with a total volume reaching 1,772.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Western Digital, situated within the strike price corridor from $60.0 to $80.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Western Digital 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721844073_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 style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WDC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$16.85</td>
<td>$16.55</td>
<td>$16.73</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$125.4K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WDC</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$9.7</td>
<td>$9.45</td>
<td>$9.7</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$96.9K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WDC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$16.85</td>
<td>$16.35</td>
<td>$16.73</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$75.2K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WDC</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$7.55</td>
<td>$7.3</td>
<td>$7.55</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$74.7K</td>
<td>549</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WDC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$5.7</td>
<td>$5.5</td>
<td>$5.7</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
<td>$57.0K</td>
<td>187</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">100</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Western Digital</h3>
Western Digital is a leading vertically integrated supplier of data storage solutions, spanning both hard disk drives and solid-state drives. In the HDD market it forms a practical duopoly with Seagate, and it is the largest global producer of NAND flash chips for SSDs in a joint venture with competitor Kioxia.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Western Digital, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Where Is Western Digital Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 3,448,062, the price of WDC is down -0.58% at $72.54. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 7 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Western Digital</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 $93.33333333333333.
<ul>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Evercore ISI Group continues to hold a Outperform rating for Western Digital, targeting a price of $90. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Citigroup keeps a Buy rating on Western Digital with a target price of $95. </li>
<li>An analyst from Wedbush persists with their Outperform rating on Western Digital, maintaining a target price of $95. </li>
</ul>
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 Western Digital with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

Western Digital Unusual Options Activity

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on FTAI Aviation. Our analysis of options history for FTAI Aviation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTAI#NASDAQ">FTAI</a>) revealed 9 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 44% of traders were bullish, while 44% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 3 were puts, with a value of $171,570, and 6 were calls, valued at $749,459.
<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 $90.0 to $140.0 for FTAI Aviation over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Insights into 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 FTAI Aviation'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 FTAI Aviation's whale activity within a strike price range from $90.0 to $140.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>FTAI Aviation 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721844068_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>FTAI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$28.0</td>
<td>$26.3</td>
<td>$28.0</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$391.5K</td>
<td>55</td>
<td>140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FTAI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$19.5</td>
<td>$17.4</td>
<td>$17.4</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$127.0K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>73</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FTAI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$3.2</td>
<td>$2.9</td>
<td>$2.91</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$87.1K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FTAI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$1.0</td>
<td>$0.4</td>
<td>$0.5</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$85.5K</td>
<td>596</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FTAI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$2.95</td>
<td>$2.8</td>
<td>$2.95</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$79.9K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About FTAI Aviation</h3>
FTAI Aviation Ltd is a aerospace company .It owns and maintains commercial jet engines with a focus on CFM56 engines. FTAI owns and leases jet aircraft which often facilitates the acquisition of engines at attractive prices. It invests in aviation assets and aerospace products that generate strong and stable cash flows with the potential for earnings growth and asset appreciation.
In light of the recent options history for FTAI Aviation, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Current Position of FTAI Aviation</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,649,633, the price of FTAI is up by 3.99%, reaching $112.14.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 91 days from now.</li>
</ul>
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 FTAI Aviation with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

FTAI

This Is What Whales Are Betting On FTAI Aviation

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on Celsius Holdings.
Looking at options history for Celsius Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CELH#NASDAQ">CELH</a>) we detected 12 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 50% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 41% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 8 are puts, for a total amount of $444,060 and 4, calls, for a total amount of $136,787.
<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 $40.0 to $65.0 for Celsius Holdings during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Celsius Holdings's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Celsius Holdings's significant trades, within a strike price range of $40.0 to $65.0, over the past month.
<h3>Celsius Holdings Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721844063_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 style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$9.4</td>
<td>$9.15</td>
<td>$9.15</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$150.9K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/02/24</td>
<td>$0.97</td>
<td>$0.76</td>
<td>$0.97</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$60.6K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">625</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$7.4</td>
<td>$7.35</td>
<td>$7.4</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$51.8K</td>
<td>653</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">96</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$6.15</td>
<td>$5.85</td>
<td>$6.15</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$51.6K</td>
<td>301</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">93</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CELH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/02/24</td>
<td>$0.94</td>
<td>$0.89</td>
<td>$0.93</td>
<td>$49.00</td>
<td>$46.2K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">819</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Celsius Holdings</h3>
Celsius Holdings plays in the energy drink subsegment of the global nonalcoholic beverage market, with 96% of revenue concentrated in North America. Celsius' products contain natural ingredients and a metabolism-enhancing formulation, appealing to fitness and active lifestyle enthusiasts. The firm's portfolio includes its namesake Celsius Originals beverages (including those that are naturally caffeinated with stevia), Celsius Essentials line (containing aminos), and Celsius On-the-Go powder packets. Celsius dedicates its efforts to branding and innovation, while it utilizes third parties for the manufacturing, packaging, and distribution of its products. In 2022, Celsius forged a 20-year distribution agreement with PepsiCo, which holds an 8.5% stake in the business.
<h3>Current Position of Celsius Holdings</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 3,447,593, the price of CELH is down -2.71% at $46.19. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 13 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Celsius Holdings</h3>
Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $68.2.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Jefferies has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Celsius Holdings, which currently sits at a price target of $68. </li>
<li>An analyst from Stifel persists with their Buy rating on Celsius Holdings, maintaining a target price of $65. </li>
<li>An analyst from TD Cowen persists with their Buy rating on Celsius Holdings, maintaining a target price of $68. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from B. Riley Securities keeps a Buy rating on Celsius Holdings with a target price of $80. </li>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from Truist Securities downgraded its rating to Hold, setting a price target of $60. </li>
</ul>
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 Celsius Holdings options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

CELH

Behind the Scenes of Celsius Holdings's Latest Options Trends

Across the recent three months, 5 analysts have shared their insights on Webster Finl (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBS#NYSE">WBS</a>), expressing a variety of opinions spanning from bullish to bearish.
The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $55.0, a high estimate of $60.00, and a low estimate of $51.00. Highlighting a 7.09% decrease, the current average has fallen from the previous average price target of $59.20. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721844044_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Webster Finl by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jon Arfstrom</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$51.00</td>
<td>$54.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Mcgratty</td>
<td>Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$58.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ken Usdin</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$51.00</td>
<td>$56.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steven Alexopoulos</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$58.00</td>
<td>$63.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jared Shaw</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Webster Finl. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Offering a comprehensive view, analysts assess stocks qualitatively, spanning from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Webster Finl compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Understanding forecasts, analysts offer estimates for Webster Finl's future value. Examining the current and prior targets provides insight into analysts' changing expectations.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Webster Finl's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WBS/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Webster Finl analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Webster Finl</h2>
Webster Financial Corp is a full-service provider of financial services, offering commercial and consumer banking, mortgages, and investment advisory along with trust and wealth management services in Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. The company's segment includes Commercial Banking, HSA Bank, and Consumer Banking. It generates maximum revenue from the Commercial Banking segment.
<h3>Webster Finl's Economic Impact: An Analysis</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Falling below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization reflects a reduced size compared to peers. This positioning may be influenced by factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Webster Finl's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 0.16% as of 31 March, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Financials sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 31.49%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Webster Finl's ROE is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing equity capital. With an ROE of 2.49%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Return on Assets (ROA): Webster Finl's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 0.28% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: Webster Finl's debt-to-equity ratio surpasses industry norms, standing at 0.54. This suggests the company carries a substantial amount of debt, posing potential financial challenges.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Beyond their standard evaluations, some analysts contribute predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, furnishing investors with additional guidance. Users of analyst ratings should be mindful that this specialized advice is shaped by human perspectives and may be subject to variability.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Breaking Down Webster Finl: 5 Analysts Share Their Views

Providing a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish, 5 analysts have published ratings on Quest Diagnostics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DGX#NYSE">DGX</a>) in the last three months.
The following table provides a quick overview of their recent ratings, highlighting the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $157.0, a high estimate of $165.00, and a low estimate of $153.00. Marking an increase of 5.37%, the current average surpasses the previous average price target of $149.00. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721844026_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Quest Diagnostics. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Eric Coldwell</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$154.00</td>
<td>$153.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Macdonald</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$158.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patrick Donnelly</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Coldwell</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$153.00</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lisa Gill</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$152.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Quest Diagnostics. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Quest Diagnostics compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Quest Diagnostics's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Quest Diagnostics's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DGX/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Quest Diagnostics analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Quest Diagnostics</h2>
Quest Diagnostics is a leading independent provider of diagnostic testing, information, and services in the U.S. The company generates over 95% of its revenue through clinical testing, anatomic pathology, esoteric testing, and substance abuse testing with specimens collected at its national network of roughly 2,300 patient service centers, as well as multiple doctors offices and hospitals. The firm also runs a much smaller diagnostic solutions segment that provides clinical trials testing, risk assessment services, and information technology solutions.
<h3>Understanding the Numbers: Quest Diagnostics's Finances</h3>
Market Capitalization: Surpassing industry standards, the company's market capitalization asserts its dominance in terms of size, suggesting a robust market position.
Revenue Growth: Quest Diagnostics displayed positive results in 3 months. As of 31 March, 2024, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 1.5%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Quest Diagnostics's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 8.16%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Quest Diagnostics's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of 3.03%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.
Return on Assets (ROA): Quest Diagnostics's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 1.38% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83, Quest Diagnostics adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
<h2>Understanding the Relevance of Analyst Ratings</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Analysts may enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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