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Nebraska's recent election, where voters overwhelmingly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/11/41764503/nebraska-says-yes-to-medical-cannabis-after-years-of-failed-legalization-attempts-heres-what-you">approved medical cannabis legalization</a>, now faces intense legal scrutiny. As Taking Joints Memo <a href="https://talkingjointsmemo.com/attorneys-argue-against-nebraskas-successful-medical-cannabis-ballot-measures/">reported</a>, the state Attorney General&#8217;s Office and former State Senator John Kuehn argue that widespread petition fraud and notarial malfeasance invalidated tens of thousands of signatures, potentially nullifying the election results.
The lawsuit, filed in Lancaster County District Court, targets the sponsors of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana and Secretary of State Bob Evnen, who certified the measures for the ballot. The measures passed with strong public support: 71% for Initiative Measure 437 (legalization) and 67% for Initiative Measure 438 (regulation). However, the legal battle casts doubt on whether those results will stand.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Allegations Of Systemic Fraud</h3>
Attorneys for Kuehn and the state argue that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40884022/nebraska-medical-cannabis-legalization-heads-into-november-election-amid-signature-controversy">fraudulent actions by petition circulators</a> and notaries compromised the integrity of the initiative process. In court, Assistant Attorney General Dave Lopez said, "Cheating is a choice," and alleged that misconduct "permeated the campaign from top to bottom
Key evidence includes texts from Crista Eggers, campaign manager for the ballot measures, instructing volunteers to "push the limits" and disregard rules. Eggers maintains that her comments were taken out of context. Two paid circulators admitted to falsifying signatures, with one, Michael Egbert, pleading guilty to a misdemeanor for using a phone book to forge voter signatures.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Legal Precedent and Expert Testimony</h3>
State attorneys cited a <a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/doc_publications_NH1988Barkley.pdf">1919 Nebraska Supreme Court ruling</a> that allowed fraudulent circulator signatures to be invalidated entirely. They also presented expert testimony from forensic document examiner Mark Songer, who identified potential forgeries among petitions. However, the defense argued that extending fraud to all petitions notarized by implicated individuals would undermine the initiative process.
Eggers, who notarized six pages of Egbert's petitions, denies knowingly approving fraudulent documents. Another circulator, Jennifer Henning, alleged additional misconduct but faced impeachment of her testimony due to her history of fraud convictions.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Potential Outcomes</h3>
District Judge Susan Strong will determine whether the petitions can be rehabilitated or if the election results should be voided. Both sides anticipate that the case will ultimately be decided by the Nebraska Supreme Court. The state constitutional officers are scheduled to certify the election on December 2, but ongoing legal battles could delay implementation of the measures.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Broader Implications</h3>
The legal challenge underscores the contentious nature of cannabis reform in Nebraska. Critics warn invalidating the election could erode public trust, while supporters argue it protects the initiative system&#8217;s integrity. As Commissioner Ava Callender Concepcion noted, "It is important that states like ours continue to innovate and pursue opportunities for research despite the barriers that may exist."
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Nebraska's Cannabis Legalization Faces Courtroom Showdown Over Alleged Fraud

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Shares of retail and apparel companies are trading higher in possible sympathy with Gap and Ross Stores, which rose after reporting quarterly earnings.

The European Commission (EC) <a href="https://europeancapitalinsights.substack.com/p/european-commission-downgrades-eu?r=3nmatg">downgraded its forecast</a> for the European Union's (EU) gross domestic product,&nbsp; pointing to "key geopolitical risks" from the war in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Brussels expects the EU GDP to grow by a mere 0.8% this year and 1.5% in 2025 <a href="https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/economic-forecast-and-surveys/economic-forecasts/spring-2024-economic-forecast-gradual-expansion-amid-high-geopolitical-risks_en">compared to a May</a> forecast of 1.0% and 1.6%, <a href="https://www.thewatcherpost.eu/the-eu-commission-downgrades-economic-forecasts-with-uncertainties-in-the-background/">according to a report published on November 15</a>. The Commission noted weak household consumption for the expected lack of growth resumption.
"The outlook remains highly uncertain, with risks largely tilted to the downside," EC Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said.
European gas prices rose to a one-year high and pushed investors towards safe havens as Russia lowered its threshold for using nuclear weapons and fired a hypersonic ballistic missile at Ukraine.&nbsp;
Gold was headed for its largest weekly gain in nearly eight months on Friday as the euro hovered at a 2-year low.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Consumer Confidence Dips, Hurting EU GDP Prospects</h3>
Global events have weighed on consumer confidence in the Euro Area. It decreased by 1.2 points to -13.7 in November 2024, according to <a href="https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/document/download/bfeec5c8-1e9f-4be7-a173-dffa2deaef2e_en?filename=Flash_consumer_2024_11_en.pdf">EC preliminary estimates</a> on Thursday. This is back below its long-term average and worse than market expectations of -12.4.&nbsp;
The EU faces "big uncertainties on the how and when the propensity to consumption will regain strength," Gentiloni said. "A still high cost of living and rising economic uncertainty pushed households to save an increasing share of their income," he added.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the <a href="https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/10/europe-saving-rate-euro-eurozone-growth-eu/#:~:text=In%20the%20second%20quarter%20of,to%20the%20COVID%2D19%20pandemic">saving rate in Europe sits 12% above its pre-pandemic average</a> at 15.7%, while the <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-euro-indicators/w/2-04102024-ap">business profit share declined to 38.8%</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfNgjJipo0hHUSW40lcoIVHHK8eQ-vB4LqjmC6NSL46csVHStRlQKStBPx2mxawR6YhDBP3rmkxjnsfOuz4fN5TQXRt7CSOWs0R_N1UyWlDI8HayU7uMxe4QWMyI91IT8klBQDscCC52Ep8SQK47A?key=fNg0o4g5C3yXveD5T_VxYfrX" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
Household saving rate in the euro area, source: <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-euro-indicators/w/2-04102024-ap">Eurostat</a>
EU officials are wary about the impact that protectionist policies under President-elect Donald Trump will have on the bloc.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/18e87028-0db7-4ba1-b59f-6062c06a5d6e">New tariffs could severely impact European economies</a>, particularly those with significant trade surpluses with America, like the Netherlands, Germany, France, Belgium and Italy.
The eurozone remains at risk of "a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/eurozone-growth-forecast-commission-report-470b390203740df5f110b5cd49894787">possible protectionist turn in US trade policy</a>," Gentiloni said. Tariffs and import taxes "would be extremely harmful for both economies,"&nbsp; he added.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfUEQz_A8W5fJfGRNs3X2SWknJ2a6z_4etvvwgQjBVWOzHntoxqOoy6n2ErNL0fHokPW90WiX9XIOtadtDcN4vA9eeKkM3wItLVW47DyjXizNe8dz_4-proRQAzRLCW_sCfraVdoFowPdsLv746oQ?key=fNg0o4g5C3yXveD5T_VxYfrX" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
EU import of goods from the US, 2023, Source: <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=USA-EU_-_international_trade_in_goods_statistics#Recent_developments">Eurostat</a>
The Commission expects Germany to fall into recession in 2024. However, it forecast that Italy, France and Spain will grow 0.7%, 1.1% and 3%, respectively.
"Growing trade conflicts and market uncertainty, against a backdrop of greater political fragmentation in the global economy, may exacerbate the challenges facing the German financial system, " Michael Theurer,&nbsp; member of the Executive Board of the Deutsche Bundesbank, <a href="https://www.bundesbank.de/en/press/speeches/statement-on-the-publication-of-the-financial-stability-review-2024-on-21-november-2024-944842">said </a>Thursday.&nbsp;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Drag On Europe: Germany</h3>
Germany, the eurozone&#8217;s largest economy, continues to be the primary drag on the region&#8217;s growth. The Commission said that <a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/german-economy-underperform-euro-zone-until-2026-eu-forecasts-2024-11-15/#:~:text=German%20growth%20will%20accelerate%20to,again%20in%202025%20and%202026">German GDP will contract</a> by 0.1% in 2024 from a 0.1% expansion previously, the second consecutive year of negative growth.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="622" height="425" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXehQzZKkSwKLkwpYjl_SHQkZcYprszszgW9FQuYgvR3Wlq1O2fWOtyFjr79PaUnr2IT1v5DY1mN0vGuhYNi584GDNvcC9wIx7YV4HjEENVpBcSzMm9Q5wJKKNCfS9SiSQPduY3X2WfAJ86UXV55abU?key=fNg0o4g5C3yXveD5T_VxYfrX" />
German Annual GDP Growth, 2018-2023, Source: <a href="https://tradingeconomics.com/germany/full-year-gdp-growth">Trading Economics</a>
&#8220;High uncertainty has been weighing on consumption and investment, and the trade outlook has worsened as global demand for industrial goods weakened,&#8221; the Commission said in its Autumn Forecast.
Despite challenges, Germany is still expected to see a moderate recovery of 0.7% in 2025 and 1.3% in 2026, driven by domestic demand and real wage increases. Nonetheless, in its May forecast, the Commission expected the German economy to grow by 1.0% in 2025. Brussels said it expects slowing inflation to boost real household income and private consumption, albeit at a slower pace.
Inflation in Germany rose in October to 2.4% from 1.8% in September but is expected to fall to 2.1% and 1.9% in 2025 and 2026, respectively, on falling energy prices.
<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeXWxgM5C0UKb8TsU59lc_k6lVVB5dS5gNOBNovs5aijc3DugEIio5nLRjN8iTT19OWyCAochhpmXN_XnGgaBT8z7eD1xZBQq5yTa-30Og3zM0cOfo5LXa6koBjWP8pLf1wF-RsyyiiTuZilXT-xp8?key=fNg0o4g5C3yXveD5T_VxYfrX" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
Falling German Energy Inflation, 1-year Range, Source: <a href="https://tradingeconomics.com/germany/energy-inflation">Trading Economics</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ING Says EC Forecasts Are Optimistic</h3>
Analysts at ING argue that the Commission's forecasts are "optimistic" when considering the structural vulnerability of Europe and Germany's struggling manufacturing sector, especially at a time marked by potential trade escalations for the country's exporters.
More realistic estimates by Consensus Economics predict the EU GDP will expand to 1.1% in 2025 instead of the Commission's 1.3% rate.
Despite the EU being expected to lag behind the US growth rate of 2.1% in 2025, Brussels pointed out in the report a widening economic divergence that could further strain Europe&#8217;s economic landscape.
The economic gap between the US and the eurozone is expected to widen, with the US maintaining solid growth due to strong consumer spending and business investment.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfvqANVQO4z8fKbamCxPJZX9nRtavUeLMC_6ebs3O-fsZNQmUiaY0TAweUBrVHETFPy0gU-wg1HRtUWuBkWBNQrAsQBCqzLb-n5l1oStseLuJJgl-aHuItOviwvgKjldLUcFcePKv8MXE8aGzjEMUg?key=fNg0o4g5C3yXveD5T_VxYfrX" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
US vs. EU Consumer Spending, 2021-2024, Source: <a href="https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/consumer-spending">Trading Economics</a>
The International Monetary Fund <a href="https://www.euronews.com/business/2024/10/22/us-europe-economic-growth-divergences-to-widen-further-imf-warns">(IMF) raised its US growth</a> from 2.6% in July to 2.8% for 2024 and from 1.9% to 2.2% for 2025. In contrast, it lowered the EU GDP from 0.9% to 0.8% and 1.5% to 1.2%, respectively.&nbsp;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">European Industrials Offer Growth Opportunities</h3>
The IMF has echoed a report by Mario Draghi, a former ECB President. It suggested in September that a wider GDP gap between the US and the EU was "driven mainly "by a more pronounced" <a href="https://www.euronews.com/business/2024/11/14/what-europe-can-learn-from-the-us-about-growth-says-imf-report">slowdown in productivity growth in Europe</a>.&#8221;&nbsp;
Demand for industrial goods in Europe has also weakened, according to the EC report. Investment in the industrial sector fell by over 2.5% in the first half of 2024 owing to high energy prices and soft export demand, hindering the Eurozone recovery.&nbsp;
Yet, research points out that the European industrial sector offers above-median profitability and earnings growth compared to Europe's growth sector. Industrials in Europe command fourfold the weight in the Russell 1000 Growth index, the comparable US tech benchmark.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXew4WbZTaYTY70Pd7R3O3LWX5b3C9FUHAcyt7uHzs1b77WVHBch-O3svhaBIESP8Rh6FGgVeCHuJrMsJXdpmLsXotlFaaIxle_ch4IrJZGfRi4YuiN0ktVgBCrpEz1PdKFaye--OedkMX6qP-M_fA?key=fNg0o4g5C3yXveD5T_VxYfrX" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
European Industrials in MSCI vs Tech-Heavy Russell 1000, Source: <a href="https://www.alliancebernstein.com/corporate/en/insights/investment-insights/european-industrials-a-hotbed-of-growth-for-equity-investors.html">Alliance Bernstein</a>
&#8220;Persistent weakness in manufacturing is weighing heavily on growth for countries such as Germany and Italy,&#8221; the IMF said.&nbsp;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lack of Productivity Growth</h3>
Europe must increase public investment to improve its economic prospects and close the growth gap, the IMF stressed in its October World Economic Forum.&nbsp;
It suggested that a 1.5% increase in public investment could boost the EU GDP by 2.5% above estimates by 2030, pointing to higher deficits and government spending reallocation as a solution.
Labour productivity in the industry sector increased by only 0.8% in the Euro Area between Q4 of 2019 and Q1 of 2022, whereas in the US, it rose by 8.8%.&nbsp; A weaker output growth and rising unemployment from higher gas prices following the Russian war against Ukraine impacted the European industry more than the US.
<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfvY77KS6sNqra2_cz8kUgXefGTGjQIWEkw0MBvOv-XQ5VyQMHgQ0wkJqhDHwEriPJ7aP_Y8gwK1H33TCRKCqKcVodgOK-E9jQDVw9hJ8Awtb2kdfNH3XOcvJcouCuPWlVRKU-bPzDFsFyATcaB3F0?key=fNg0o4g5C3yXveD5T_VxYfrX" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
Hourly Labour Productivity Growth by Main Sectors, US vs. EU, Source: <a href="https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/economic-bulletin/focus/2024/html/ecb.ebbox202406_01~9c8418b554.en.html">Eurostat</a> "Europe is less hard-working, less ambitious, more regulated, and more risk-averse than the US, with the gap between the two continents only getting wider," <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/kjartanrist/2024/06/04/will-europe-ever-match-the-us-for-startup-investment-and-growth/">said</a> Norges Bank Investment Management Nicolai Tangen FT in an April interview.
Disclaimer
Any opinions expressed in this article are not to be considered investment advice and are solely those of the authors. European Capital Insights is not responsible for any financial decisions made based on the contents of this article. Readers may use this article for information and educational purposes only.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#8217;s reporting and has not been edited for content&nbsp;or&nbsp;accuracy.

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European Commission Downgrades EU GDP Growth On 'Geopolitical Risks'

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Cemtrex shares are trading lower after the company announced its board approved a 1-for-35 reverse stock split.

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Scilex shares are trading lower after the company announced it received a receipt of notice from Nasdaq for its failure to file its quarterly report ending September 30.

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Affirm Holdings shares are trading higher after B of A Securities maintained a Buy rating on the stock and raised its price target from $50 to $74.

DA Davidson analyst Michael Baker reiterated the Buy rating on BJ&#8217;s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BJ#NYSE">BJ</a>),<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BJ/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener"> raising the price forecast to $110 from $95.</a>
Yesterday, the company reported third-quarter adjusted earnings per share of $1.18, beating the street view of 91 cents. Quarterly revenues of $5.10 billion were in line with the analyst consensus.
BJ&#8217;s Wholesale Club expects fourth-quarter adjusted EPS to be between $0.78 and $0.88. For FY2024, adjusted EPS is forecasted at $3.90 – $4.00, up from previous guidance for a low end of $3.75 – $4.00 and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">against the consensus estimate of $3.85.</a>
The analyst notes that BJ has had another strong quarter, showing improvements in key areas like membership, sales, and digital performance.
BJ&#8217;s Wholesale Club expects fourth quarter comparable club sales, excluding gasoline, to rise 2.5% &#8211; 3.0% year-over-year.
With plenty of room to grow its store base, BJ&#8217;s is positioned as one of the rare long-term square footage growth stories in the big-box retail sector. Recent successes also allow BJ&#8217;s to raise fees, which, while benefiting customers, will ultimately be advantageous for shareholders, the analyst writes.
The analyst highlights BJ&#8217;s strategy to compete with Costco Wholesale by focusing on differentiating itself, especially in the grocery and fresh produce areas.
BJ&#8217;s grocery sales make up 77% of its total, compared to Costco&#8217;s 54%. Per Bake, BJ&#8217;s aims to replace weekly grocery trips, while Costco is more about stock-up shopping.
Their &#8220;Fresh 2.0&#8221; program, launched 18 months ago, improves perishable and produce offerings through supply chain investments, better vendor relations, and enhanced in-store experiences.
The program has shown positive results, with strong produce sales and customers spending more, leading to significantly higher annual spending, the analyst adds.
Price Action: BJ shares are trading higher by 3.78% to $96.30 at last check Friday.
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BJ's Wholesale Positioned As One Of Few Big-box Retailers With Long-Term Growth Potential – Analyst Highlights Membership, Sales, And Digital Performance

PDD Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PDD#NASDAQ">PDD</a>) reported downbeat earnings for its fiscal third <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/pdd/earnings">quarter 2024 on Thursday</a>.
The company posted revenue growth of 44% year-on-year to $14.16 billion (68.84 billion Chinese yuan), missing the analyst consensus estimate of $14.47 billion. The Chinese online retailer&#8217;s adjusted earnings per ADS of $2.65 (18.59 Chinese yuan) increased from 11.61 Chinese yuan Y/Y, missing the analyst consensus estimate of $2.82. The stock plunged after the print.
Revenues from online marketing services and others rose 24% Y/Y to $7.03 billion. Revenues from transaction services jumped 72% Y/Y to $7.13 billion.
Adjusted operating profit grew by 48% Y/Y to $3.81 billion. PDD Holdings held $44.0 billion in cash and equivalents as of September 30, 2024. The company generated $3.92 billion in operating cash flow.
&#8220;Over the past quarter, our focus remained on driving the high-quality development of the platforms,&#8221; said Mr. Lei Chen, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of PDD Holdings. &#8220;We are committed to investing consistently and patiently in our platform ecosystem to deliver impactful results over the long run.&#8221;
PDD shares fell 4.8% to trade at $99.06 on Friday.
These analysts made changes to their price targets on PDD following earnings announcement.
<ul>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Andre Chang downgraded PDD Holdings from Overweight to Neutral and lowered the price target from $170 to $105.</li>
<li>Benchmark analyst Fawne Jiang maintained PDD Holdings with a Buy and cut the price target from $185 to $160.</li>
<li>Jefferies analyst Thomas Chong, on Thursday, maintained PDD with a Buy and lowered the price target from $181 to $171.</li>
</ul>
Considering buying PDD stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="616" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134807/image-256-1024x616.png" alt="" class="wp-image-661567" style="width:726px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134807/image-256-1024x616.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134807/image-256-300x180.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134807/image-256-768x462.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22134807/image-256.png 1097w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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At the recent <a href="https://cannabismarketspotlight.com/california/anaheim-november-12/">Cannabis Market Spotlight: California</a> event in Anaheim, DJ Saul, CEO of B&amp;Y Ventures, shared his perspective on the role of genuine connections in celebrity-backed cannabis brands. Representing Khalifa Kush, the cannabis line co-founded by Wiz Khalifa, Saul spoke about how an authentic brand connection can set companies apart in a competitive industry.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Building Trust Through Authentic Branding</h3>
"Khalifa Kush has the most authentic celebrity story in the space," Saul said, suggesting that this foundation has helped the brand resonate with consumers who value a true connection between the brand and its namesake.
Unlike many celebrity-driven ventures, Khalifa Kush reflects Khalifa&#8217;s personal values and public image, building a sense of trust and relatability with fans and customers.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lessons from the Industry</h3>
During the panel, Saul also pointed to Planet 13's approach to celebrity involvement as a meaningful example. Lee Fraser of Planet 13 described their focus on bringing celebrity partnerships to life in real, engaging ways. Saul agreed that this approach helps create a strong and genuine connection with audiences.
Reflecting on audience reactions during the discussion, Saul noted that "a lot of heads [were] nodding out there," indicating broad agreement among attendees about the importance of real connections in brand development.
Saul's comments highlight an approach that many in the cannabis industry are now focusing on—authentic celebrity-driven branding that goes beyond mere endorsements. 
Khalifa Kush's model suggests that genuine, aligned involvement from a brand's celebrity founder can foster loyalty and credibility, distinguishing it from others in the field.
Image: Wiz Khalifa Duki

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American Airlines Gr's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NYSE">AAL</a>) short percent of float has fallen 18.74% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 66.51 million shares sold short, which is 11.49% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.89 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>American Airlines Gr Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732301121_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for American Airlines Gr has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing American Airlines Gr's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, American Airlines Gr's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.08%, which means the company has more short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Peering Into American Airlines Gr's Recent Short Interest

Cigna's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) short percent of float has risen 22.55% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 3.45 million shares sold short, which is 1.25% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.54 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Cigna Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732301116_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Cigna has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Cigna's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Cigna's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 8.26%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Looking Into Cigna's Recent Short Interest

Moderna's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NYSE">MRNA</a>) short percent of float has risen 3.25% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 34.38 million shares sold short, which is 11.75% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 7.68 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Moderna Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732301111_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Moderna has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Moderna's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Moderna's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 4.72%, which means the company has more short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

MRNA

Looking Into Moderna's Recent Short Interest

Several analysts expressed views on Ross Stores, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROST#NASDAQ">ROST</a>) third-quarter results reported on Thursday.
The company reported EPS&nbsp;of $1.48, exceeding the consensus of $1.40, while sales&nbsp;of $5.07 billion <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42123039/ross-stores-reports-third-quarter-earnings-updates-fourth-quarter-guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">missed the street view of&nbsp;$5.15 billion</a>.
Ross Stores expects fourth-quarter EPS of&nbsp;$1.57 &#8211; $1.64&nbsp;versus consensus of $1.67 and FY25 EPS&nbsp;of $6.10 &#8211; $6.17&nbsp;compared <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">to the street view of $6.14</a>.
BofA Securities analyst Lorraine Hutchinson reiterated a <a target="_blank" href="https://benzinga.com/quote/ROST/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buy rating on the stock with a price target of $180.</a>
The analyst writes that the company&#8217;s value-focused offerings continue to appeal to stretched consumers.
The analyst says the fourth-quarter guidance accounts for a timing shift in packaway expenses (benefiting the third quarter by $0.03) and lapping last year&#8217;s extra week, which added $0.20 to EPS and 80 basis points to OM. Hutchinson adjusted the FY24 estimate to $6.14, up 1%.
Telsey Advisory Group analyst Dana Telsey reaffirmed the Market Perform rating with a price target of $175.
The analyst writes that Ross Stores&#8217; earnings beat reflected margin tailwinds, despite topline results falling short of expectations. While some sales weakness was attributed to unfavorable weather, product assortment issues also contributed, failing to fully capture consumer interest.
Looking ahead, the company remains aware of the challenging macroeconomic environment, particularly for its low-to-moderate income demographic, which faces pressure from rising essential costs, says the analyst.
The analyst writes that although FY24 EPS guidance was raised, fourth-quarter projections fell short, underscoring persistent challenges.
Ross&#8217;s commitment to value continues to attract deal-seeking customers, but macroeconomic uncertainty and the price sensitivity of its core demographic weigh, adds the analyst.
Guggenheim analyst Robert Drbul maintained a Buy rating with a $180 price target.
The analyst says that while macro uncertainties remain, he expects Ross to sustain positive sales momentum this holiday season, driven by strength in gifting, cosmetics, and accessories, and carry this into 2025.
Drbul sees EPS estimates of $6.15 in FY24 and $6.70 in FY25, which reflects a favorable environment for Ross, supported by ample branded goods supply, a strong value proposition, and ongoing sales optimism.
Following the third-quarter revenue miss, the analyst slightly reduced the FY24 revenue forecast, factoring in persistent inflation and its impact on discretionary spending.
Goldman Sachs analyst Brooke Roach writes that they remain positive on Ross Stores. Despite weather-related comp softness and execution challenges, ROST&#8217;s strategy of offering branded value merchandise at sharper prices is gaining traction.
While this pressures merchandise margins, operational efficiencies have offset the impact. Management acknowledges ongoing macro pressures on low- to middle-income consumers but expects sequential strength in the holiday quarter, driven by gifting and seasonal items, adds the analyst.
Roach writes that additional catalysts include the appointment of a new <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/b41586044/ross-stores-names-james-g-conroy-as-next-chief-executive-officer" rel="noreferrer noopener">CEO, effective February 2025</a>.
The analyst revised the FY24, FY25, and FY26 EPS estimates to $6.19, $6.54, and $7.14 (from $6.07, $6.47, and $7.06), respectively, to account for the quarterly results, timing adjustments, and slight margin forecast updates.
BMO Capital Markets analyst Simeon Siegel kept the Outperform rating and a price target of $168.
The analyst writes that ROST delivered a bottom-line beat, driven by stronger-than-expected gross margins, despite a topline miss attributed to unfavorable weather.
Management lowered its fourth-quarter EPS guidance but reiterated comp expectations, slightly raising the FY EPS high-end by $0.03, which the analyst views as conservative.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Virtus ETF Trust II Virtus KAR Mid-Cap ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMID#NYSE">KMID</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: ROST shares are up 2.41% at $146.41 at the last check Friday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42139806" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EchoStar Shares Sink As DirecTV Terminates Acquisition Agreement</a></li>
</ul>

Large Cap

Movers

Virtus ETF Trust II Virtus KAR Mid-Cap ETF

KMID

ROST

Merrill Lynch Retail HOLDRS Trust due 12/31/41

Analysts See Growth Potential In Ross Stores Amid Holiday Season Optimism: Details

Macro Economic Events

Market Summary

Economics

$BTC

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ALLY

Ally Financial Weighs Sale Of Credit Card Business

The Gap, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GAP#NYSE">GAP</a>) reported better-than-expected earnings for its second quarter and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GAP/earnings">raised its outlook for FY24 gross margin.</a>
Gap reported quarterly earnings of 72 cents per share, which beat the analyst consensus estimate of 57 cents. Quarterly revenue came in at $3.82 billion, which beat the consensus estimate of $3.81 billion and is an increase over sales of $3.76 billion from the same period last year.
"I'm proud that Gap Inc. delivered another successful quarter, growing net sales for the fourth consecutive quarter and gaining market share across all brands while meaningfully expanding operating margin," said Gap CEO Richard Dickson.
Gap raised its full-year outlook for net sales, gross margin and operating income growth compared to prior expectations. The company now sees net sales up 1.5% to 2%, gross margin growth of 220 basis points and operating income margin of mid-to-high 60%.
Gap shares gained 10.7% to trade at $24.41 on Friday.
These analysts made changes to their price targets on Gap following earnings announcement.
<ul>
<li>B of A Securities maintained Gap with a Neutral and raised the price target from $25 to $28.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/62a9ca40b9d3b0000138d981/alex-straton">Morgan Stanley analyst Alex Straton</a> maintained Gap with an Overweight and raised the price target from $29 to $30.</li>
<li>Barclays analyst Adrienne Yih maintained the stock with an Overweight and raised the price target from $31 to $32.</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Ike Boruchow maintained Gap with an Overweight and raised the price target from $28 to $30.</li>
<li>Evercore ISI Group analyst Michael Binetti maintained the stock with an Outperform and increased the price target from $32 to $33.</li>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Matthew Boss maintained Gap with a Neutral and boosted the price target from $26 to $28.</li>
<li>BMO Capital analyst Simeon Siegel maintained Gap with a Market Perform and raised the price target from $23 to $25.</li>
<li>Considering buying GAP stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="540" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22133942/image-255-1024x540.png" alt="" class="wp-image-661553" style="width:664px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22133942/image-255-1024x540.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22133942/image-255-300x158.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22133942/image-255-768x405.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/22133942/image-255.png 1102w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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These Analysts Increase Their Forecasts On Gap Following Better-Than-Expected Earnings

Needham analyst Tom Nikic initiated Nike, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>) with a Buy rating and a<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NKE/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener"> price forecast of $84.</a>
The analyst suggests that Nike&#8217;s worst may nearly be over, with the recent CEO transition from John Donohoe to Nike veteran Elliott Hill seen as a major turning point &#8211; &#8220;Nike&#8217;s proverbial white knight.&#8221;
The analyst also acknowledges that management accepts past mistakes and takes decisive steps to correct them.
Although these strategies may pressure profits on P&amp;L in the short term, they are viewed as the right moves for the company, Nikic writes.
While rebuilding the brand&#8217;s momentum will take time, the analyst sees potential for Nike to become an attractive &#8220;story stock&#8221; in 2025, especially if performance has hit its lowest point and investors view Elliott Hill as the company&#8217;s savior.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42143421/staggering-google-breakup-proposal-from-doj-a-kitchen-sink-moment-alphabet-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;Staggering&#8217; Google Breakup Proposal From DOJ A &#8216;Kitchen Sink Moment&#8217;: Alphabet Analyst</a>
The analyst notes that three years ago, the consensus FY25 EPS forecast for Nike was around $6.60, but it has now dropped to $2.75.
However, per Nikic, this updated estimate accurately reflects the necessary adjustments Nike needs to make.
The analyst also projects revenue declines to peak in the second half of 2024 and the first half of 2025 as Nike reduces over-distributed styles.
If revenue trends improve in the coming quarters and the EPS revision cycle turns positive, the analyst forecasts Nike&#8217;s stock could start rising.
The analyst projects Nike to report FY25 revenues of $47.383 billion, with earnings per share of $2.67.
Price Action: NKE shares are trading higher by 2.52% to $76.99 at last check Friday.
Photo via Shutterstock
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/24/11/42044642/trump-appears-frustrated-as-elon-musk-chimes-in-on-treasury-secretary-adds-more-names-to-a-list-of-potential-picks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Appears &#8216;Frustrated&#8217; As Elon Musk Chimes In On Treasury Secretary, Adds More Names To Short List </a></li>
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Initiation

Nike's Worst May Nearly Be Over: Analyst Sees CEO Transition And Strategic Fixes Sparking A Turnaround

U.S. small-cap stocks have delivered an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/partner/markets/24/11/42086831/how-the-intersection-of-public-health-and-politics-can-shift-the-societal-landscape">exceptional performance this November</a>, with the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NASDAQ">IWM</a>) climbing 8.5% and outpacing the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NASDAQ">SPY</a>).
This year's rally for IWM is driven by supportive monetary policy, political developments, and economic resilience. The Federal Reserve's recent rate cuts, including a 25-basis-point reduction in November, have reduced borrowing costs, particularly benefiting small-cap companies that rely heavily on credit.
What To Know: Small-cap companies, which constitute the bulk of the Russell 2000 index, are typically more sensitive to borrowing costs than their larger counterparts.
Unlike large-cap companies, which often have diversified funding sources and international revenue streams, small-caps rely heavily on domestic lending to finance operations, expansion and innovation.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42140842/sp-500-faces-volatile-2025-as-inflation-boom-could-return-bank-of-america-strategist">S&amp;P 500 Faces Volatile 2025 As &#8216;Inflation Boom&#8217; Could Return: Bank Of America Strategist</a>
Lower interest rates directly reduce borrowing costs, improving profit margins for small-cap firms. Additionally, cheaper credit can enable these businesses to invest more aggressively in growth initiatives, such as hiring, capital expenditures and research and development.
Rate cuts also typically encourage a rotation into riskier assets like small caps, as the lower yields on fixed-income securities push investors to seek higher returns in equities. This shift in investor sentiment is another factor behind the strong performance of IWM during periods of monetary easing.
What Else: Optimism surrounding the Republican sweep in the 2024 elections has further bolstered small caps, as investors anticipate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/11/41772701/trumps-historic-return-7-ways-his-second-term-could-impact-the-us-economy">regulatory rollbacks</a>.
Economic fundamentals have added fuel to the rally. The U.S. economy remains strong, with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41631465/us-gdp-rises-2-8-in-q3-but-can-the-momentum-last-what-6-top-economists-are-saying">steady GDP growth</a> and a robust labor market supporting consumer confidence and domestic demand, key drivers for small-cap stocks.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/11/42141413/us-business-activity-soars-to-31-month-highs-in-november-small-caps-rally-dow-tops-44000">US Business Activity Soars To 31-Month Highs In November: Small Caps Rally, Dow Tops 44,000</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IWM Performance After Recent Elections</h2>
Historical data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?gspk=bHVrZWphY29iaTUzNDg&amp;gsxid=EfCj4A0Ti3Vk">Benzinga Pro</a> suggests that the performance of small caps, including IWM, often reflects broader market sentiment driven by post-election policies, economic expectations and seasonal trends.
<ul>
<li>November 2020 (Post-Biden Election): Following the election of Joe Biden, IWM experienced a sharp rally, increasing by 18.24% in November 2020. This surge was largely driven by investor optimism surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and the possibility of new fiscal stimulus​.​ </li>
<li>November 2016 (Post-Trump Election): After Donald Trump won the election in November 2016, IWM rose by approximately 6.5%. This was fueled by expectations of pro-business policies, including tax cuts and deregulation​. </li>
<li>November 2012 (Post-Obama Re-election): In November 2012, after President Obama was re-elected, IWM saw more modest growth, rising by about 1.5%. This reflected investor expectations of stability under Obama's second term​. </li>
<li>November 2008 (Post-Obama's First Election): Following Barack Obama's first election, small-cap stocks faced challenges in the aftermath of the financial crisis. IWM declined by approximately 5% in November 2008 as the market struggled amid the global economic downturn​.</li>
</ul>
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42140450/doj-targets-google-chrome-poll-shows-64-oppose-alphabet-breakup-youtube-seen-as-top-prize">DOJ Targets Google Chrome, Poll Shows 64% Oppose Alphabet Breakup: YouTube Seen As Top Prize</a>

What's Driving Small-Cap Success For iShares Russell 2000 ETF (IWM) In November?

Risk appetite remained robust in the final trading session of the week, with all major U.S. indices poised to close the week in positive territory. Small-cap stocks outperformed their large-cap counterparts, continuing their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/small-cap">recent streak of dominance</a>.
Fresh business surveys highlighted a notable health in the U.S. economy, with private sector activity recording its strongest expansion in over two and a half years. The services sector, in particular, showed remarkable growth, maintaining its rapid pace of expansion.
The Russell 2000, a benchmark for small-cap equities, surged 1.7% on Friday, building on a 1.5% gain from the previous session. The S&amp;P 500 edged higher, heading for a five-day winning streak, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed past the 44,000 mark, moving tantalizingly close to record highs. Technology stocks posted more modest gains.
The U.S. Dollar Index, tracked via the Invesco DB USD Index Bullish Fund ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UUP#NYSE">UUP</a>), extended its rally for an eighth consecutive week—the longest streak in 14 months—surpassing the 107 level to hit a two-year high. The dollar's strength was fueled by a mix of robust U.S. economic data <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/24/11/42138717/dollar-hits-2-year-highs-as-europes-recession-signals-spark-euro-pound-sell-offs">and economic malaise in Europe.</a>
In commodities, gold climbed for a fifth straight session, advancing 5.6% for the week, its best weekly performance since March 2023.
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) also maintained its bullish momentum, soaring past $99,000 and edging closer to the highly anticipated $100,000 milestone. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Major Indices</td>
<td>Price</td>
<td>1-day %chg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,401.00</td>
<td>1.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>44,211.20</td>
<td>0.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>5,969.01</td>
<td>0.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>20,768.99</td>
<td>0.1%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated at 1:05 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
According to&nbsp;<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent111924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro</a>&nbsp;data:
<ul>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) rose 0.4% to $595.75.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>)&nbsp;rose 0.8% to $442.49.</li>
<li>The tech-heavy&nbsp;Invesco QQQ Trust Series&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) inched 0.2% up to $506.20.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;iShares Russell 2000 ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) rallied 1.8% to $238.61.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;Consumer Discretionary Sector Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>) outperformed, rising 1.6%. The&nbsp;Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) lagged, down 0.1%.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTU#NASDAQ">INTU</a>) fell 4.4% in reaction to quarterly earnings. </li>
<li>Other stocks reacting to earnings reports were Copart Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CPRT#NASDAQ">CPRT</a>), up 9.8%, Ross Stores Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROSS#NASDAQ">ROSS</a>), up 3.1%, and NetApp Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTAP#NASDAQ">NTAP</a>), down 2.7%. </li>
</ul>
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Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

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PowerShares DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund

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Small Caps Rally, Gold Poised For Best Week Since March 2023, Bitcoin Tops $99,000: What's Driving Markets Friday?

StoneCo Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STNE#NASDAQ">STNE</a>) shares are moving higher on Friday after the company announced a share repurchase plan. Here&#8217;s what <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42132115">you need to know</a>.
What To Know: Under the plan, Stone plans to repurchase shares worth up to R$ 2 billion ($344.6 million).
The repurchase plan will replace its previous program, announced last year, in which Stone repurchased a total of 13,202,939 shares at an average price of R$ 20.45 per share, totaling R$ 1.03 billion.
&#8220;We are pleased to announce the completion of our previous R$1 billion share repurchase program, underscoring our robust financial position. As part of our ongoing commitment to maximizing shareholder returns, we continuously evaluate the most effective use of our resources,&#8221; said Pedro Zinner, CEO.
&#8220;Confident in our long-term vision, we have approved a new buyback program to seize the current market opportunities. Furthermore, we are finalizing a structured framework to guide our capital allocation strategy, which will enhance transparency and align with our strategic priorities once shared with the market.&#8221;
How To Buy StoneCo Shares
By now you're likely curious about how to participate in the market for StoneCo &#8211; be it to purchase shares, or even attempt to bet against the company.
Buying shares is typically done through a brokerage account. You can find a list of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-stock-trading-platforms">possible trading platforms here.</a> Many will allow you to buy ‘fractional shares,' which allows you to own portions of stock without buying an entire share. For example, some stocks, like Berkshire Hathaway, can cost thousands of dollars to own just one share. However, if you only want to invest a fraction of that, brokerages will allow you to do so.
In the case of StoneCo, which is trading at $10.29 as of publishing time, $100 would buy you 9.72 shares of stock.
If you're looking to bet against a company, the process is more complex. You'll need access to an options trading platform, or a broker who will allow you to ‘go short' a share of stock by lending you the shares to sell. The process of shorting a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock">stock can be found at this resource.</a> Otherwise, if your broker allows you to trade options, you can either buy a put option, or sell a call option at a strike price above where shares are currently trading &#8211; either way it allows you to profit off of the share price decline.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42122886/cathie-woods-3-8-million-bitcoin-vision-met-with-doubt-83-say-not-by-2030">Cathie Wood&#8217;s $3.8 Million Bitcoin Vision Met With Doubt: 83% Say Not By 2030</a>
STNE Price Action: At the time of writing, StoneCo stock is trading 12.2% higher at $10.41, per data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
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