Option chain shows key data for HORIZON ROBOTICS B by HORIZON ROBOTICS's stock options at various strike prices and expiration dates. Traders use this information to analyze potential trades and assess market sentiment for HORIZON ROBOTICS B by HORIZON ROBOTICS.

HORIZON ROBOTICS B by HORIZON ROBOTICS (OTC:HRZRF) Stock, Option Chain

HORIZON ROBOTICS B by HORIZON ROBOTICS

<p>Despite flat earnings and challenging market conditions, <strong>Cresco Labs Inc.</strong> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRLBF#OTC">CRLBF</a>) remains an &#8220;Overweight&#8221; stock, according to analysis firm <strong>Zuanic &amp; Associates</strong>. In his latest report, Zuanic underscores Cresco&#8217;s strong positioning in emerging adult-use markets such as Pennsylvania and Ohio while identifying valuation advantages that set the company apart. </p>
<p>Cresco trades at 5.5x forward EBITDA, below <strong>Green Thumb Industries Inc.</strong> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTC">GTBIF</a>) at 7x and <strong>Curaleaf Holdings Inc. </strong>(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTC">CURLF</a>) at 10x. </p>
<p>&#8220;This discount presents an appealing entry point for investors looking beyond short-term volatility,&#8221; Zuanic writes.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong><em>Get Benzinga&#8217;s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. You can't afford to miss out if you&#8217;re serious about the business.</em></strong></li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Market Dynamics: Cresco In The Tier 1 Landscape</strong></h3>
<p>Zuanic's report benchmarks Cresco against other Tier 1 multi-state operators (MSOs), including Green Thumb, <strong>Trulieve Cannabis Corp.</strong> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTC">TCNNF</a>), <strong>Verano Holdings Corp.</strong> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNOF#OTC">VRNOF</a>), and Curaleaf.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While Cresco&#8217;s third-quarter revenue of $180 million fell 2% sequentially, the decline aligns with broader industry trends, with peers like Curaleaf and Verano posting declines of 3% and 5%, respectively. By contrast, Green Thumb achieved a 2% increase, reaching $287 million.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis/earnings">Adjusted EBITDA margins </a>further illustrate Cresco's position: the company held steady at 29% in Q3, compared to Green Thumb at 31% (-200 basis points) and Trulieve at 34% (-100 basis points). However, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRLBF">Cresco lags in adjusted cash flow.</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Its negative $3 million adjusted figure for the first nine months of 2024, factoring in tax liabilities, contrasts sharply with Green Thumb's $139 million (17% of sales) and Trulieve's $37 million (4% of sales). <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/pablo-zuanic">Zuanic highlights</a> cash flow conversion as a critical area where Cresco &#8216;lags&#8217; its competitors.&#8221;&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42145406/nebraskas-cannabis-legalization-faces-courtroom-showdown-over-alleged-fraud">Nebraska&#8217;s Cannabis Legalization Faces Courtroom Showdown Over Alleged Fraud</a></strong></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Valuation Analysis: Digging Into The Numbers</strong></h3>
<p>Cresco's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis/earnings">valuation metrics reveal potential upside</a>. Its enterprise value (EV) to current sales ratio stands at 1.6x, lower than Curaleaf and Green Thumb, both at 2.2x. This discount extends to EV-to-EBITDA multiples, with Cresco trading at 5.5x compared to Green Thumb at 7x and Curaleaf at 10x.&nbsp;</p>
<p>These figures include tax liabilities, financial net debt, and other obligations. "Cresco's lower EV multiples, alongside its gross cash holdings of $157 million, make it a compelling value play among Tier 1 operators," Zuanic explains.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Strategic Hurdles And Growth Catalysts</strong></h3>
<p>Despite these advantages, Zuanic identifies several hurdles. Cresco&#8217;s total leverage, including financial and tax liabilities, amounts to 80% of trailing sales, the highest among Tier 1 MSOs. In contrast, Green Thumb's leverage is just 9%. Moreover, while Cresco holds promising positions in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/pennsylvania-cannabis">Pennsylvania</a> and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ohio-cannabis">Ohio</a>, Zuanic emphasizes the need for a strategic partner to close the scale gap with peers like Green Thumb and Curaleaf. &#8220;A partnership would help Cresco achieve operational efficiencies and capitalize on upcoming recreational markets,&#8221; he notes.</p>
<p>Zuanic&#8217;s projections account for regulatory uncertainty, including delays in Pennsylvania's adult-use legalization timeline to mid-2026 and the potential impact of federal rescheduling challenges. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic about Cresco's long-term prospects. &#8220;We see Cresco as a buy for investors with a one-to-two-year horizon, particularly given its discounted valuation,&#8221; he concludes. </p>
<p>For a deeper dive into his methodology and projections, <a href="https://zuanicgroup.com/">visit Zuanic &amp; Associates' research portal</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42144540/dea-slammed-over-unlawful-talks-with-cannabis-opponents-the-plot-thickens">DEA Slammed For Unlawful Talks With Cannabis Opponents &#8211; The Plot Thickens</a></strong></p>


Analyst Color

Cannabis

Market Summary

News

Retail Sales

Small Cap

Exclusives

Markets

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

CRLBF

CURALEAF HLDGS INC by Curaleaf Hldgs Inc.

CURLF

GTBIF

TCNNF

VRNOF

80% Leverage, 5.5x EBITDA: Is Cresco The High-Risk, High-Reward Play Investors Need?

WIIM

General Motors shares are trading higher amid rumors the company may potentially enter F1 in 2026.

<p><strong>Ford Motor Company </strong>(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) shares are trading higher Friday. There were multiple developments this week, including unionization efforts at its Kentucky battery plant and broader industry calls to President-elect <strong>Donald Trump</strong> to preserve key EV tax credits. Here&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/F/news">what you need to know.</a></p>
<p><strong>What To Know:</strong> Earlier this week, the United Auto Workers (UAW) announced that a supermajority of workers at Ford's BlueOval SK battery plant in Kentucky, a joint venture with SK On, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42104199/supermajority-of-workers-at-fords-jv-battery-plant-sign-union-authorization-cards-says-uaw">signed union authorization cards</a>.</p>
<p>The workers cited pay and benefit disparities compared to unionized Ford employees as key motivators. UAW stated that BlueOval SK workers earn significantly less than their unionized counterparts, starting pay at $21 per hour compared to $26.32 for Ford's UAW production workers.</p>
<p>Additionally, a group representing major automakers, including Ford, urged the incoming Trump administration to preserve the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicle purchases and support self-driving car technologies. The group also expressed concerns over emissions regulations and potential revisions to rules mandating automatic emergency braking systems. This lobbying effort potentially highlights the auto industry&#8217;s focus on sustaining momentum in EV and autonomous vehicle development while addressing regulatory challenges.</p>
<p><strong>What Else: </strong>On Wednesday, the company announced plans to cut about 4,000 jobs or 14% of its European workforce, due to weak demand for electric vehicles and increasing competition. The layoffs, representing 2.3% of Ford&#8217;s global headcount, are expected to occur by the end of 2027. Ford&#8217;s European sales have dropped 17.9% this year, largely due to reduced EV subsidies in markets like Germany, contributing to the company&#8217;s challenges as its transition to electric vehicles.</p>
<p><strong>F Price Action:</strong> Ford Motor shares were up 3.56% at $11.18 at the time of writing, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga pro.</a></p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent112224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="529" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134601/F-1024x529.png" alt="" class="wp-image-661562" style="width:495px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134601/F-1024x529.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134601/F-300x155.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134601/F-768x397.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134601/F.png 1174w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure></p>
<p><em>Image via Shutterstock</em>.</p>


Movers

Ford Shares Are On The Rise Friday: What You Need To Know

Nike shares are trading higher after Needham initiated coverage on the stock with a Buy rating and announced a price target of $84.

ABBV

AbbVie shares are trading higher after Leerink Partners upgraded the stock from Market Perform to Outperform and announced a price target of $206.

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on <strong>Deere</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with DE, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 16 uncommon options trades for Deere.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 43% bullish and 43%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 6 are puts, for a total amount of $301,147, and 10 are calls, for a total amount of $1,023,353.</p>
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
<p>Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $185.0 to $470.0 for Deere over the last 3 months. </p>
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Deere'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 Deere's whale trades within a strike price range from $185.0 to $470.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Deere 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732308895_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$265.4</td>
<td>$261.2</td>
<td>$261.2</td>
<td>$185.00</td>
<td>$444.0K</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/22/24</td>
<td>$41.15</td>
<td>$33.7</td>
<td>$33.75</td>
<td>$397.50</td>
<td>$168.7K</td>
<td align="right">88</td>
<td align="right">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$23.0</td>
<td>$22.5</td>
<td>$23.0</td>
<td>$470.00</td>
<td>$138.0K</td>
<td align="right">239</td>
<td align="right">60</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$43.85</td>
<td>$42.85</td>
<td>$43.28</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$60.5K</td>
<td align="right">904</td>
<td align="right">20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/06/24</td>
<td>$7.05</td>
<td>$5.5</td>
<td>$6.1</td>
<td>$430.00</td>
<td>$51.8K</td>
<td align="right">104</td>
<td align="right">89</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Deere</h3>
<p>Deere is the world's leading manufacturer of agricultural equipment, producing some of the most recognizable machines in the heavy machinery industry in their green and yellow livery. The company is divided into four reportable segments: production and precision agriculture, small agriculture and turf, construction and forestry, and John Deere Capital. Its products are available through an extensive dealer network, which includes over 2,000 dealer locations in North America and approximately 3,700 locations globally. John Deere Capital provides retail financing for machinery to its customers, in addition to wholesale financing for dealers, which increases the likelihood of Deere product sales.</p>
<p>In light of the recent options history for Deere, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.</p>
<h3>Where Is Deere Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,458,238, the price of DE is up by 1.71%, reaching $445.02.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 83 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Deere</h3>
<p>In the last month, 4 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $485.0.</p>
<p><strong>Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?</strong></p>
<p>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"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from JP Morgan keeps a Neutral rating on Deere with a target price of $450.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Truist Securities has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Deere, which currently sits at a price target of $538.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Barclays continues to hold a Overweight rating for Deere, targeting a price of $475.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Oppenheimer keeps a Outperform rating on Deere with a target price of $477. </p>
<p>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 Deere options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


Options

Behind the Scenes of Deere's Latest Options Trends

<p>Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on <strong>Novo Nordisk</strong>.</p>
<p>Looking at options history for Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) we detected 25 trades.</p>
<p>If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 40% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 48% with bearish.</p>
<p>From the overall spotted trades, 11 are puts, for a total amount of $1,872,600 and 14, calls, for a total amount of $3,590,645.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $65.0 to $145.0 for Novo Nordisk during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Novo Nordisk's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Novo Nordisk's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $65.0 to $145.0 over the preceding 30 days.</p>
<h3>Novo Nordisk Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732308891_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$7.8</td>
<td>$7.6</td>
<td>$7.8</td>
<td>$102.00</td>
<td>$1.3M</td>
<td>270</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$5.2</td>
<td>$4.9</td>
<td>$5.2</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$780.0K</td>
<td>4.6K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$3.85</td>
<td>$3.65</td>
<td>$3.84</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$686.9K</td>
<td>2.9K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$13.45</td>
<td>$13.1</td>
<td>$13.15</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$636.4K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>984</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$5.25</td>
<td>$5.15</td>
<td>$5.15</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$257.5K</td>
<td>4.6K</td>
<td>500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Novo Nordisk</h3>
<p>With roughly one third of the global branded diabetes treatment market, Novo Nordisk is the leading provider of diabetes-care products in the world. Based in Denmark, the company manufactures and markets a variety of human and modern insulins, injectable diabetes treatments such as GLP-1 therapy, oral antidiabetic agents, and obesity treatments. Novo also has a biopharmaceutical segment (constituting roughly 10% of revenue) that specializes in protein therapies for hemophilia and other disorders.</p>
<h3>Where Is Novo Nordisk Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 4,857,497, the price of NVO is up 2.5% at $105.2. </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 68 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Novo Nordisk</h3>
<p>1 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $160.0.</p>
<p><strong>Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?</strong></p>
<p>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"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its rating to Overweight, setting a price target of $160. </p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Novo Nordisk, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


Smart Money Is Betting Big In NVO Options

NVDA

Nvidia shares are trading lower. Phillip Securities downgraded the stock from Buy to Accumulate.

CRWD

Crowdstrike shares are trading higher after Keybanc maintained an Overweight rating on the stock and raised its price target from $345 to $395.

Boeing shares are trading higher after the company announced it secured a $2.38 billion deal with the US Air Force for advanced KC-46A tankers.

PANW

Palo Alto Networks shares are trading lower after HSBC downgraded the stock from Hold to Reduce and cut its price target from $304 to $291.

CPRT

Copart shares are trading higher after the company reported better-than-expected Q1 sales results.

<p>- Reuters Citing Spokesperson&nbsp;</p>


NTSB Opening Investigation Into 2023 Southwest Boeing 737 Max Engine Incident

<p>Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Meta Platforms. Our analysis of options history for Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) revealed 34 unusual trades.</p>
<p>Delving into the details, we found 52% of traders were bullish, while 32% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 5 were puts, with a value of $1,346,507, and 29 were calls, valued at $1,577,731.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $5.0 to $700.0 for Meta Platforms over the recent three months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Meta Platforms's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Meta Platforms's significant trades, within a strike price range of $5.0 to $700.0, over the past month.</p>
<h3>Meta Platforms Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732308088_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>META</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$47.65</td>
<td>$47.3</td>
<td>$47.65</td>
<td>$550.00</td>
<td>$1.1M</td>
<td>4.7K</td>
<td>250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>META</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$553.9</td>
<td>$550.0</td>
<td>$552.75</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$276.3K</td>
<td>222</td>
<td>48</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>META</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$18.25</td>
<td>$18.05</td>
<td>$18.2</td>
<td>$560.00</td>
<td>$138.3K</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
<td>613</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>META</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$17.7</td>
<td>$17.7</td>
<td>$17.7</td>
<td>$560.00</td>
<td>$100.8K</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
<td>694</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>META</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/29/24</td>
<td>$6.85</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$560.00</td>
<td>$85.0K</td>
<td>2.2K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Meta Platforms</h3>
<p>Meta is the largest social media company in the world, boasting close to 4 billion monthly active users worldwide. The firm's "Family of Apps," its core business, consists of Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. End users can leverage these applications for a variety of different purposes, from keeping in touch with friends to following celebrities and running digital businesses for free. Meta packages customer data, gleaned from its application ecosystem and sells ads to digital advertisers. While the firm has been investing heavily in its Reality Labs business, it remains a very small part of Meta's overall sales.</p>
<p>In light of the recent options history for Meta Platforms, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of Meta Platforms</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 6,535,996, with META's price down by -0.59%, positioned at $559.77.</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>What The Experts Say On Meta Platforms</h3>
<p>A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $642.4.</p>
<p><strong>Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?</strong></p>
<p>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"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Citigroup continues to hold a Buy rating for Meta Platforms, targeting a price of $705.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Susquehanna has decided to maintain their Positive rating on Meta Platforms, which currently sits at a price target of $675.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from UBS keeps a Buy rating on Meta Platforms with a target price of $719.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from BMO Capital continues to hold a Market Perform rating for Meta Platforms, targeting a price of $530.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Scotiabank has decided to maintain their Sector Perform rating on Meta Platforms, which currently sits at a price target of $583. </p>
<p>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 Meta Platforms with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


Looking At Meta Platforms's Recent Unusual Options Activity

<p>Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards JD.com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in JD usually suggests something big is about to happen.</p>
<p>We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 12 extraordinary options activities for JD.com. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.</p>
<p>The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 58% leaning bullish and 41% bearish. Among these notable options, 10 are puts, totaling $365,631, and 2 are calls, amounting to $146,200.</p>
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
<p>After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $29.0 and $44.0 for JD.com, spanning the last three months.</p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.</p>
<p>This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for JD.com's options for a given strike price.</p>
<p>Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of JD.com's whale activity within a strike price range from $29.0 to $44.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>JD.com Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732308082_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$4.25</td>
<td>$4.05</td>
<td>$4.21</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$84.2K</td>
<td>122</td>
<td align="right">200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$9.55</td>
<td>$9.4</td>
<td>$9.45</td>
<td>$44.00</td>
<td>$67.1K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td align="right">80</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>$1.49</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$62.0K</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
<td align="right">411</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$2.84</td>
<td>$2.81</td>
<td>$2.84</td>
<td>$34.00</td>
<td>$56.8K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td align="right">243</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$2.27</td>
<td>$2.25</td>
<td>$2.25</td>
<td>$34.00</td>
<td>$35.3K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td align="right">200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About JD.com</h3>
<p>JD.com is a leading e-commerce platform with its 2022 China GMV being similar to Pinduoduo (GMV not reported), on our estimate, but still lower than Alibaba. it offers a wide selection of authentic products with speedy and reliable delivery. The company has built its own nationwide fulfilment infrastructure and last-mile delivery network, staffed by its own employees, which supports both its online direct sales, its online marketplace and omnichannel businesses.</p>
<p>Having examined the options trading patterns of JD.com, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance</p>
<h3>JD.com's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 7,562,490, with JD's price down by -1.94%, positioned at $34.7.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 103 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About JD.com</h3>
<p>2 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $49.0.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>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"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Citigroup continues to hold a Buy rating for JD.com, targeting a price of $51.<br />
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Benchmark lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $47.</p>
<p>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 JD.com with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


Behind the Scenes of JD.com's Latest Options Trends

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on <strong>Vertiv Hldgs</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRT#NYSE">VRT</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with VRT, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 11 options trades for <strong>Vertiv Hldgs</strong>.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 18% bullish and 45%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $30,470, and 10, calls, for a total amount of $762,525.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $50.0 to $155.0 for Vertiv Hldgs during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Vertiv Hldgs'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 Vertiv Hldgs's whale trades within a strike price range from $50.0 to $155.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Vertiv Hldgs Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732308077_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>VRT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$58.9</td>
<td>$58.4</td>
<td>$58.9</td>
<td>$87.50</td>
<td>$235.6K</td>
<td>511</td>
<td align="right">40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/22/24</td>
<td>$14.7</td>
<td>$14.0</td>
<td>$14.6</td>
<td>$126.00</td>
<td>$146.0K</td>
<td>458</td>
<td align="right">108</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$57.1</td>
<td>$56.4</td>
<td>$56.82</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$113.6K</td>
<td>920</td>
<td align="right">22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$31.6</td>
<td>$30.4</td>
<td>$30.75</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$61.5K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td align="right">20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$84.6</td>
<td>$80.5</td>
<td>$82.51</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$41.2K</td>
<td>115</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Vertiv Hldgs</h3>
<p>Vertiv Holdings Co brings together hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services to ensure its customers vital applications run continuously, perform optimally and grow with their business needs. The company solves the important challenges faced by data centers, communication networks and commercial and industrial facilities with a portfolio of power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions and services that extends from the cloud to the edge of the network. Its services include critical power, thermal management, racks and enclosures, monitoring and management, and other services. Its three business segments include the Americas, Asia Pacific; and Europe, Middle East &amp; Africa.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Vertiv Hldgs, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of Vertiv Hldgs</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 3,591,027, the VRT's price is up by 0.71%, now at $142.5. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 89 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Vertiv Hldgs</h3>
<p>5 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $130.2.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>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"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Oppenheimer has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on Vertiv Hldgs, which currently sits at a price target of $121.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Citigroup keeps a Buy rating on Vertiv Hldgs with a target price of $141.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from TD Cowen has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Vertiv Hldgs, which currently sits at a price target of $115.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from B of A Securities continues to hold a Buy rating for Vertiv Hldgs, targeting a price of $140.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Citigroup persists with their Buy rating on Vertiv Hldgs, maintaining a target price of $134. </p>
<p>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 Vertiv Hldgs with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


A Closer Look at Vertiv Hldgs's Options Market Dynamics

Dividends

MGYR

Magyar Bancorp Declares Special Cash Dividend Of $0.04, Payable December 20, 2024 To Shareholders Of Record On December 6, 2024

Management

CORRECTION: Reuters Makes Correction Naming Brian Setzer As U.S. CEO; Brian Setzer Is Executive Vice President, Health & Wellness, Walmart U.S.

<ul>
<li>On June 1, 2020, Emergent announced a $628 million contract with the U.S. government to produce COVID-19 vaccines.</li>
<li>The company started producing vaccine materials for Johnson &amp; Johnson and AstraZeneca at its Baltimore facility in late 2020.&nbsp;</li>
<li>In March 2021, the facility accidentally contaminated Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine doses with AstraZeneca ingredients.&nbsp;</li>
<li>By April 2021, the FDA halted production at the site, citing quality issues, contamination risks, and poor training.</li>
<li>Following the contamination crisis, Emergent stock price dropped by over 60% by November 2021, erasing over half the company&#8217;s market value in just months.</li>
<li>Shortly after, shareholders filed multiple lawsuits against Emergent, claiming the company misrepresented its vaccine production capabilities and hid serious quality issues.</li>
<li>Emergent BioSolutions recently agreed to pay a $40 million settlement to investors to resolve the lawsuits. Affected investors can now <a href="https://11thestate.com/cases/emergent-investor-settlement">file a claim</a> to receive the payout.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size">Overview</h2>
<p>Emergent BioSolutions (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EBS#NYSE">EBS</a>)&nbsp;secured over $1 billion in government and pharmaceutical contracts during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in March 2021, workers at its Baltimore facility mistakenly mixed Johnson &amp; Johnson and AstraZeneca vaccine ingredients, contaminating up to 15 million J&amp;J doses and forcing AstraZeneca to discard tens of millions more. This error delayed J&amp;J's vaccine rollout and disrupted global distribution, causing Emergent stock to drop by over 50% by November 2021. Following these events, a group of shareholders sued Emergent, and recently, Emergent agreed to pay a $40 million settlement to all affected investors.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size">How It All Started: Manufacturing Failures&nbsp;</h3>
<p>In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Emergent BioSolutions <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/06/11/2046894/0/en/Emergent-BioSolutions-Signs-Agreement-to-be-U-S-Manufacturing-Partner-for-AstraZeneca-s-COVID-19-Vaccine-Candidate.html#:~:text=Development%20services%20will,public%20health%20emergencies.">positioned</a> its Bayview facility as a critical vaccine production asset. In March 2020, the company secured over $1 billion in contracts with Johnson &amp; Johnson and AstraZeneca, including a substantial government Operation Warp Speed contract.</p>
<p>On April 30, 2020, CEO Robert Kramer declared during an earnings call that the company had &#8220;proven manufacturing capabilities&#8221; and was prepared to scale up quickly to meet the demands of vaccine production.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In July 2020, following the AstraZeneca agreement, Emergent further bolstered its claims in a press release, with Kramer declaring, &#8220;<em>Emergent is driven by our desire to advance solutions that will make an impact on this pandemic</em>&#8220;.&nbsp;</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="113" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20162558/image_2024-11-20_20-25-24-1024x113.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3463" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20162558/image_2024-11-20_20-25-24-1024x113.png 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20162558/image_2024-11-20_20-25-24-300x33.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20162558/image_2024-11-20_20-25-24-768x85.png 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20162558/image_2024-11-20_20-25-24.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The company&#8217;s CDMO business unit head, Syed T. Husain, added that &#8220;<em>Emergent stands ready alongside leading innovators to rapidly deploy our CDMO services to help meet the substantial demand for a vaccine.</em>&#8220;</p>
<p>By early 2021, Emergent shares were trading above $90, fueled by high expectations for the company's role in vaccine production.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, despite positive public messaging, internal audits and inspections in the summer of 2020 uncovered serious issues at Emergent BioSolutions' manufacturing facilities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Reports highlighted poor staff training, equipment failures, and inadequate quality control measures, revealing long-standing problems within the company&#8217;s operations. One audit found that <em>&#8220;the flow of workers and materials through the plant was not adequately controlled to prevent mix-ups or contamination.&#8221; </em>Another audit discovered that a manager had <em>&#8220;knowingly deviated&#8221;</em> from standard procedures.</p>
<p>After that, in November 2020, AstraZeneca representatives visiting Emergent&#8217;s Bayview facility raised concerns about poor oversight and GMP compliance.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Emergent&#8217;s VP of Manufacturing acknowledged these issues, mentioning trash buildup in hallways and lapses in GMP standards. An external consultant also warned that the facility was &#8220;NON-CGMP compliant&#8221; and at regulatory risk, but production still continued.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size">Contamination Crisis at Emergent's Facility</h3>
<p>In March 2021, a major contamination incident at Emergent's Baltimore facility revealed significant oversight failures. Millions of Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine doses were mixed with AstraZeneca ingredients, an issue initially detected by Johnson &amp; Johnson's lab in the Netherlands, not Emergent. </p>
<p>The contamination forced the disposal of tens of millions of AstraZeneca doses and delayed the delivery of approximately 100 million Johnson &amp; Johnson doses during a critical phase of the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Following this disclosure, Emergent issued a press release, stating that their &#8220;quality control systems worked as designed&#8221; and that discarding a batch of bulk drug substance &#8220;occasionally happens during vaccine manufacturing.&#8221;&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, that same day the Associated Press released FDA documents obtained through FOIA requests, revealing a history of quality control issues at Emergent&#8217;s facilities dating back to 2017.</p>
<p>FDA leaders reported that the company &#8220;hired a lot of individuals not as familiar with vaccine manufacturing that did not have adequate training.&#8221;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Inspectors found several issues at Emergent's facility, including mismanaged waste, peeling paint, and cluttered equipment. They also discovered that some quality checks were removed from vaccines before an FDA visit in February 2021.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Later, it came to light that Emergent had been forced to destroy vaccine materials equivalent to nearly 400 million doses — much more than the previously reported 85 million.</p>
<p>The situation worsened on November 4, 2021, when Emergent announced that the Department of Health and Human Services had cancelled its $628 million contract, requiring the company to reverse $86 million in Q3 2021 revenue and reduce its contract backlog by $180 million.</p>
<p>The impact on investors was clear as Emergent's stock price dropped by over 60%, from more than $120 in early 2021 to below $45 by November 2021.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeIIZlLXwwooy_Zuo42Ez05mIVStfl0HOwUqkb9SlYYDcrmYOLAsAZF0seiSDHOA3ONme9YjpCgNgGOq0vGoQc-apf2vdPLSufxtKjA92BHR-VPz2Bk12OYqeUoyRBv-UZ97kKnZU0RrwHGwCBSKGT8671r?key=KYxIxnLygQzR6Mc3yd4O5SaK" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure></p>
<p>These disclosures and the sharp drop in stock price led shareholders to file multiple lawsuits against Emergent, accusing the company of misrepresenting its vaccine production capabilities and concealing serious quality issues.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size">Resolving The Case</h3>
<p>After three years of legal proceedings, in September 2024, Emergent agreed to pay $40 million to settle the lawsuit from shareholders. If you invested in Emergent, you may be eligible to <a href="https://11thestate.com/cases/emergent-investor-settlement">file for a portion</a> of the settlement to recover your losses.</p>
<p>As of now, Emergent BioSolutions has made significant progress in its recovery, securing a $50 million settlement with Johnson &amp; Johnson and driving a broader transformation under CEO Joe Papa. In Q3 2024, the company saw a 9% revenue increase to $293.8 million and secured vital government contracts, including a $250 million order to produce vaccines for anthrax, botulism, and smallpox. It also sold its Camden facility for $30 million to streamline operations. However, its stock remains far below previous highs, trading at $8 in November 2024 — a 93.6% decline from its $125 peak in 2021, showing that there is still a long road ahead for a recovery.</p>


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Emergent's Vaccine Production Failure: Contamination Scandal, Investor Backlash, and $40M Settlement

<p><strong>EQUA Specialty Risk Partners</strong>, a Canadian-owned insurance brokerage, is taking on one of the cannabis industry's most pervasive challenges: stigma. Through education, advocacy and innovative risk management strategies, EQUA seeks to transform how <a href="http://benzinga.com/cannabis">cannabis</a> businesses access insurance.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In an exclusive conversation with Benzinga, <strong>Loretta Eldridge</strong>, EQUA's director of marketing, communications and strategic partnerships, and <strong>Matt Jardine</strong>, cannabis client executive, spoke about the company's mission to create insurance solutions without stigma.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Uncovering The Impact Of Stigma On Canada&#8217;s Cannabis Operators</strong></h3>
<p>EQUA was founded in 2020 as a specialty brokerage for complex commercial risks. Initially focusing on industries like construction and technology, the company ventured into cannabis after Eldridge, a lifelong cannabis advocate and former director of marketing at <strong>Ample Organics</strong>, joined the team. &#8220;I&#8217;m transparently a lifelong consumer, a medical patient. I am really dedicated to the cannabis community because it is my community,&#8221; Eldridge said.</p>
<p>The shift began when Eldridge continued attending cannabis events and noticed a pressing need for insurance solutions. Business owners approached her with urgent requests for help. &#8220;It got to the point where in one of those conversations a woman I was chatting to started to get emotional. The one woman said, &#8216;I met you for a reason today. I need help,'&#8221; Eldridge recalled.</p>
<p>These interactions prompted <strong>two years of in-depth research involving nearly 60 industry leaders across 20 sub-sectors</strong>. What the EQUA team found was alarming. Canadian cannabis operators faced inflated premiums, limited market capacity and policies riddled with exclusions.</p>
<p>Jardine elaborated on the practical impacts of stigma, particularly for cultivators and processors. &#8220;You could have a neighboring risk that&#8217;s a greenhouse and they would have completely different premiums for the exact same size facilities&#8230; We have coined that the cannabis surcharge,&#8221; he noted.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>EQUA's Strategy: Education, Collaboration &amp; Customized Solutions</strong></h3>
<p>However, EQUA has taken a proactive approach to dismantle these barriers, rooted in education and collaboration. Eldridge highlighted the importance of connecting cannabis operators directly with underwriters to dismantle biases. "We invite underwriters to tour facilities, see the stringent security measures and understand the hyper-regulated nature of the industry," she explained. These efforts have led to the entry of new insurance markets, gradually alleviating stigma.</p>
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<p>Customization lies at the heart of EQUA&#8217;s strategy. By deeply understanding each client&#8217;s unique needs, they tailor insurance packages accordingly. Jardine shared an example where EQUA reduced a client's stock coverage to align with actual inventory needs, saving thousands of dollars. "We personalize every policy, ensuring it matches the operator's specific requirements and eliminates unnecessary costs," Jardine said.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>U.S. Laws Limit Cannabis Insurance Access</strong> Globally</h3>
<p>Limited global insurance capacity due to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/11/42093641/dea-is-compromised-doj-should-replace-it-in-cannabis-rescheduling-claims-joint-motion">U.S. federal illegality</a> further complicates problems, leaving Canadian businesses with fewer competitive options. This limits market capacity and sustains high premiums. Eldridge described the situation as a funnel, with stigma and legal barriers narrowing options at every level.</p>
<p><strong>Read Also: </strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40900626/legal-medical-cannabis-could-save-us-healthcare-29b-annually-new-study-finds"><strong>Legal Medical Cannabis Could Save US Healthcare $29B Annually, New Study Finds</strong></a></p>
<p>She also emphasized the importance of global outreach: &#8220;We don&#8217;t have to just go to the United States, we educate and engage with underwriters wherever those underwriters are legally allowed to offer these services to Canadian businesses.&#8221;</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>‘Cannabis Surcharge' Also Hits Ancillary Companies</strong></h3>
<p>And the challenges don't stop at plant-touching businesses. Eldridge pointed out that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/09/34985762/exclusive-unlocking-potential-of-ancillary-companies-in-cannabis-industry">ancillary companies</a>, such as equipment manufacturers and technology providers, also face inflated premiums simply for serving cannabis clients. EQUA's role, she explained, includes educating underwriters to separate perceived risks from actual risks and advocating for fairer practices across the supply chain.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Overcoming Canada's Complex Cannabis Regulations</strong></h3>
<p>Moreover, navigating Canada's fragmented regulatory landscape is another area where EQUA&#8217;s tailored solutions provide critical support. Each province imposes unique insurance requirements, from product recall policies to liability limits. </p>
<p><strong>Read Also: </strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40591338/canadas-cannabis-growth-slowed-due-to-federal-gov-inaction-key-industry-leader-says"><strong>Canada&#8217;s Cannabis Growth Slowed Due To Federal Gov Inaction, Key Industry Leader Says</strong></a></p>
<p>Jardine noted that non-compliance can void policies, making EQUA's role in reviewing agreements and ensuring alignment indispensable for multi-province cannabis operators.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>EQUA's Vision For Industry Transformation</strong></h3>
<p>When asked about their views on the future evolution of cannabis insurance, Eldridge expressed optimism. "The industry is waking up and wanting to support these companies because it's the right thing to do," she said. Jardine echoed this sentiment, predicting that increased competition and nuanced underwriting will lead to fairer premiums within the next two years.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>With its focus on advocacy, education and tailored solutions, EQUA is reshaping how insurance is perceived in the cannabis industry. As Eldridge put it, "We're just at the beginning of the precipice of change and we're proud to be leading the charge."&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Read Next:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42130221/the-best-and-worst-performing-states-for-cannabis-sales-in-2024-ytd-winners-and-losers"><strong>Best And Worst Performing States For Cannabis Sales In 2024: YTD Winners &amp; Losers</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Image courtesy of EQUA.</em></p>


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EXCLUSIVE: How EQUA Tackles Stigma In Cannabis Insurance With Tailored Solutions

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