Latest news for Meganet (OTC:MGNT) Stock

Meganet Corp is focused on the development of data security solutions for enterprises, organizations, and corporations around the globe, including the United States Department of Defense, Military Intelligence, and the Federal Government. The company's data security solutions include an encryption algorithm. It out-sources the manufacture of its counter-IED products, including bomb jammers, dismounted backpack portable jammers, and facility jammers. The company also develops and sells cell phones, satellites, and wireless interceptors. Other data security solutions include encrypted cell phones, landlines, faxes, radios, and satellites.

Meganet Corp

Wedbush analyst Tom Nikic reiterated an Outperform rating on Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SKX#NYSE">SKX</a>), <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SKX/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">raising the price forecast to $79 from $76.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>
Skechers reported quarterly earnings of 91 cents per share, which missed the analyst consensus estimate of 94 cents by 3.19%. The company reported quarterly sales of $2.16 billion.
According to the analyst, the company saw strength in U.S. wholesale, Europe DTC, and gross margins, resulting in raised FY sales/EPS guidance.
In addition, the quarter would have been more robust if not for a pushout of revenue to the third quarter.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/39972642/skechers-reports-q2-results-heres-the-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">Skechers Reports Q2 Results: Here&#8217;s The Details</a>
On the flip side, U.S. DTC and China slowed meaningfully, Nikic cautioned. All in all, the analyst sees favorable risk/reward here.
The analyst raised FY24/25 EPS forecasts to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">$4.16/ $4.92 (from $4.06/$4.75).</a>
According to the analyst, the domestic wholesale channel benefited not only from easy comparisons but also from strong consumer response to Slip-Ins and other new products.
However, U.S. DTC trends continued to slow, growing just 1% YoY against the year&#8217;s toughest compare (+29%), owing to slowing foot traffic in stores, though digital traffic improved.
The analyst adds that the company&#8217;s 2H guidance embeds modest expectations in U.S. DTC.
Price Action: SKX shares are trading higher by 1.90% to $64.92 at last check Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39990138/general-motors-cruise-aims-to-resume-driverless-rides-this-year-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">General Motors&#8217; Cruise Aims To Resume Driverless Rides This Year: Report</a></li>
</ul>

Analyst Color

Equities

News

Price Target

Reiteration

Markets

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

General

Analyst Bumps Up Skechers Price Forecast, Cites Strong Wholesale and European Growth Despite Earnings Miss

U.S. stocks traded higher toward the end of trading, with the S&amp;P 500 gaining more than 1% on Friday.
The Dow traded up 1.66% to 40,598.17 while the NASDAQ rose 1.07% to 17,365.04. The S&amp;P 500 also rose, gaining, 1.17% to 5,462.66.
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/07/39984123/jim-cramer-is-mystified-by-five-below-predicts-crowdstrike-is-going-to-bottom-here"> Jim Cramer Is &#8216;Mystified&#8217; By Five Below, Predicts CrowdStrike &#8216;Is Going To Bottom Here&#8217;</a>
Leading and Lagging Sectors Industrials shares jumped by 2% on Wednesday.
In trading on Wednesday, energy shares rose by just 0.6%.
Top Headline
3M Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MMM#NYSE">MMM</a>) shares jumped around 21% on Friday after the company posted better-than-expected second-quarter financial results and raised its FY24 EPS outlook.
The company reported second-quarter net sales of $6.255 billion, a slight decline of 0.5% year-over-year. Adjusted net sales totaled $6.019 billion, up 1.1% YoY, beating the consensus of $5.878 billion. Adjusted EPS was $1.93, up from $1.39 in the prior-year quarter, beating the consensus of $1.68.
For fiscal 2024, 3M continues to see adjusted total sales growth of (0.25%) to +1.75% and, on an organic basis, flat to +2%. MMM now expects adjusted EPS of $7.00 – $7.30 (prior $6.80 – $7.30) versus the $7.17 consensus.
Equities Trading UP &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Windtree Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WINT#NASDAQ">WINT</a>) shares shot up 107% to $6.85 after the company filed a request for the withdrawal of its registration statement on a Form S-1.</li>
<li>Shares of BurgerFi International, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BFI#NASDAQ">BFI</a>) got a boost, surging 144% to $0.5191 after the company announced it reached a legal settlement agreement with Lion Point Capital. The company agreed to pay $1,350,000 and issue Lion Point 300,000 of preferred stock.</li>
<li>Coursera, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COUR#NYSE">COUR</a>) shares were also up, gaining 45% to $10.77 after the company beat second-quarter earnings estimates.</li>
</ul>
Equities Trading DOWN
<ul>
<li>NovaBay Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NBY#NYSE">NBY</a>) shares dropped 64% to $0.70 after the company reported pricing of $3.5 million underwritten public offering.</li>
<li>Shares of DexCom, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DXCM#NASDAQ">DXCM</a>) were down 42% to $62.50 after the company reported worse-than-expected second-quarter revenue results and issued weak FY24 revenue guidance.</li>
<li>Nature&#8217;s Miracle Holding Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NMHI#NASDAQ">NMHI</a>) was down, falling 47% to $0.2087 after the company announced pricing of $1.2 million public offering.</li>
</ul>
Also Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/07/39984459/top-3-risk-off-stocks-that-are-set-to-fly-in-july">Top 3 Risk Off Stocks That Are Set To Fly In July</a>
Commodities In commodity news, oil traded down 1.1% to $77.41 while gold traded up 1.2% at $2,381.50.
Silver traded up 0.1% to $28.00 on Friday, while copper fell 0.3% to $4.1145.
Euro zone
European shares were higher today. The eurozone's STOXX 600 gained 0.83%, Germany's DAX rose 0.65% and France's CAC 40 rose 1.22%. Spain's IBEX 35 Index rose 0.18%, while London's FTSE 100 rose 1.21%.
Median expectations for inflation over the next 12 months for the Eurozone came in unchanged at 2.8% for June. Spanish unemployment rate declined to 11.27% during the second quarter. The consumer confidence indicator in France climbed to 90.8 in July compared to a revised reading of 89.7 in the prior month.
Asia Pacific Markets
Asian markets closed mostly higher on Friday, with Japan's Nikkei 225 falling 0.53%, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index gaining 0.1%, China's Shanghai Composite Index gaining 0.14% and India's S&amp;P BSE Sensex jumping 1.62%.
Foreign exchange reserves held by the Reserve Bank of India rose to $670.9 billion as of July 19. The index of coincident economic indicators in Japan rose to 117.1 in May versus a flash reading of 116.5.
Economics
<ul>
<li>The headline Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) price index fell to 2.5% year-on-year in June, as expected.</li>
<li>Personal spending in the U.S. rose 0.3% from the prior month in June, while personal income increased by 0.2% to $23.948 trillion in June.</li>
<li>The University of Michigan consumer sentiment was revised higher to 66.4 in July compared to a preliminary level of 66.</li>
<li>The total number of active U.S. oil rigs climbed by 5 to 482 rigs this week, Baker Hughes Inc reported</li>
</ul>
Now Read This: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39984491/nvidia-lockheed-martin-and-2-other-stocks-insiders-are-selling">Nvidia, Lockheed Martin And 2 Other Stocks Insiders Are Selling</a>

Earnings

Eurozone

Commodities

Intraday Update

COUR

DXCM

NMHI

WINT

S&P 500 Gains Over 1%; 3M Shares Jump After Q2 Results

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on JD.com. Our analysis of options history for JD.com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>) revealed 12 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 50% of traders were bullish, while 41% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 3 were puts, with a value of $209,543, and 9 were calls, valued at $453,242.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $20.0 and $36.0 for JD.com, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for JD.com's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across JD.com's significant trades, within a strike price range of $20.0 to $36.0, over the past month.
<h3>JD.com 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722018663_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$9.85</td>
<td>$9.55</td>
<td>$9.85</td>
<td>$36.00</td>
<td>$139.8K</td>
<td>323</td>
<td>151</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$8.35</td>
<td>$7.85</td>
<td>$7.95</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$74.6K</td>
<td>127</td>
<td>90</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$7.15</td>
<td>$7.1</td>
<td>$7.1</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$71.0K</td>
<td>4.1K</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/09/24</td>
<td>$0.68</td>
<td>$0.64</td>
<td>$0.68</td>
<td>$27.00</td>
<td>$67.8K</td>
<td>515</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$7.55</td>
<td>$7.3</td>
<td>$7.48</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$44.8K</td>
<td>11.3K</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About JD.com</h3>
JD.com Inc 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.
<h3>Current Position of JD.com</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 2,219,202, the JD's price is up by 0.91%, now at $26.57. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 19 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for JD.com</h3>
1 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $40.0.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Barclays persists with their Overweight rating on JD.com, maintaining a target price of $40. </li>
</ul>
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest JD.com options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Options

Spotlight on JD.com: Analyzing the Surge in Options Activity

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on Freeport-McMoRan.
Looking at options history for Freeport-McMoRan (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FCX#NYSE">FCX</a>) we detected 22 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 31% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 59% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 13 are puts, for a total amount of $1,037,123 and 9, calls, for a total amount of $434,778.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $30.0 and $50.0 for Freeport-McMoRan, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Freeport-McMoRan's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Freeport-McMoRan's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $30.0 to $50.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Freeport-McMoRan Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722018658_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>FCX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$3.25</td>
<td>$3.39</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$508.5K</td>
<td>9.7K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FCX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$15.4</td>
<td>$14.15</td>
<td>$14.3</td>
<td>$32.00</td>
<td>$97.2K</td>
<td>5.6K</td>
<td>69</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FCX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$4.9</td>
<td>$4.85</td>
<td>$4.85</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$82.3K</td>
<td>2.6K</td>
<td>170</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FCX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$5.55</td>
<td>$5.45</td>
<td>$5.45</td>
<td>$42.00</td>
<td>$81.7K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
<td>250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FCX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$81.6K</td>
<td>649</td>
<td>255</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Freeport-McMoRan</h3>
Freeport-McMoRan Inc is an international mining company. It has organized its mining operations into four primary divisions: North America copper mines, South America mining, Indonesia mining and Molybdenum mines. Its reportable segments include the Morenci, Cerro Verde and Grasberg (Indonesia mining) copper mines, the Rod &amp; Refining operations and Atlantic Copper Smelting and Refining. It derives key revenue from the sale of Copper.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Freeport-McMoRan, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of Freeport-McMoRan</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 6,291,596, the price of FCX is up 0.79% at $44.88. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 83 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Freeport-McMoRan</h3>
A total of 3 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $57.0.
<ul>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Raymond James keeps a Outperform rating on Freeport-McMoRan with a target price of $53. </li>
<li>An analyst from Scotiabank persists with their Sector Outperform rating on Freeport-McMoRan, maintaining a target price of $58. </li>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from RBC Capital downgraded its rating to Sector Perform, setting a price target of $60. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Freeport-McMoRan, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Decoding Freeport-McMoRan's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Mastercard (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with MA, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 8 options trades for Mastercard.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 37% bullish and 12%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $169,440, and 7, calls, for a total amount of $424,743.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $400.0 to $500.0 for Mastercard over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Mastercard'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 Mastercard's whale trades within a strike price range from $400.0 to $500.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Mastercard Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722018653_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$4.95</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.8</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$169.4K</td>
<td>237</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">364</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$34.1</td>
<td>$33.15</td>
<td>$33.99</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$149.5K</td>
<td>258</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">85</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$33.95</td>
<td>$32.95</td>
<td>$33.82</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$101.6K</td>
<td>258</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>08/23/24</td>
<td>$13.45</td>
<td>$12.45</td>
<td>$12.95</td>
<td>$440.00</td>
<td>$51.8K</td>
<td>7</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$41.8</td>
<td>$41.3</td>
<td>$41.3</td>
<td>$480.00</td>
<td>$33.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Mastercard</h3>
Mastercard is the second-largest payment processor in the world, having processed close to over $9 trillion in volume during 2023. Mastercard operates in over 200 countries and processes transactions in over 150 currencies.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Mastercard, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Where Is Mastercard Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 1,091,632, the MA's price is up by 2.28%, now at $439.39. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 5 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Mastercard</h3>
Over the past month, 2 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $490.0.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from JP Morgan has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Mastercard, which currently sits at a price target of $500. </li>
<li>An analyst from B of A Securities downgraded its action to Neutral with a price target of $480. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Mastercard, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Market Whales and Their Recent Bets on Mastercard Options

Antero Resources (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AR#NYSE">AR</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 32.95% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 45.58%. Currently, Antero Resources has a market capitalization of $9.23 billion. 
Buying $100 In AR: If an investor had bought $100 of AR stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $734.90 today based on a price of $29.69 for AR at the time of writing.
<h3>Antero Resources's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722018636_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Here's How Much You Would Have Made Owning Antero Resources Stock In The Last 5 Years

Dell Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 18.71% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 31.34%. Currently, Dell Technologies has a market capitalization of $80.02 billion. 
Buying $1000 In DELL: If an investor had bought $1000 of DELL stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $3,996.66 today based on a price of $113.14 for DELL at the time of writing.
<h3>Dell Technologies's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722018631_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

DELL

Here's How Much $1000 Invested In Dell Technologies 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

Universal Music Group NV&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UMGNF#OTC">UMGNF</a>) shares dropped 23% on Thursday following the announcement of disappointing results in its streaming <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/universal-music-group">and subscription segments.</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Subscription Revenue Growth Slows Down Significantly</h3>
In the second quarter, UMG&#8217;s subscription revenue growth slowed to 6.9% year-over-year, excluding foreign exchange (FX) effects, a notable drop from the 12.5% growth in the first quarter. This fell short of Bloomberg&#8217;s consensus estimate of 11% growth. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/03/37425498/universal-music-group-announces-major-layoffs-amid-271m-strategic-overhaul">Universal Music Group Announces Major Layoffs Amid $271M Strategic Overhaul</a>
The streaming revenue also saw a significant decline, falling 3.9% ex-FX, a stark contrast to the 10.3% growth recorded in Q1, Yahoo Finance <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/universal-music-group-stock-plunges-20-after-streaming-subscription-revenue-disappoints-154149611.html">reported.</a>
UMG attributed this downturn to a &#8220;deceleration in growth at key advertising-based platform partners as well as shortfalls on certain platforms related to the timing of deal renewals.&#8221;
The company&#8217;s recent struggles with social media platforms have also been a contributing factor. 
In May, UMG ended its partnership with Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), which had been licensing premium music videos for Facebook. Management acknowledged that the offering was &#8220;less popular with Facebook&#8217;s user base than other music products.&#8221;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Licensing Disputes And Market Adjustments Hit UMG Hard</h3>
Additionally, UMG&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/03/37428368/universal-music-pulls-4-million-songs-from-tiktok-tells-artists-they-simply-do-not-value-yo">high-profile dispute with TikTok </a>over a new licensing agreement resulted in a month&#8217;s worth of lost revenue before the issue was resolved. Citi analyst Thomas Singlehurst downgraded UMG&#8217;s shares from Buy to Neutral, citing the stock volatility&#8217;s potential to &#8220;weigh on sentiment&#8221; in the near term.
UMG&#8217;s vice president and CFO, Boyd Muir, discussed the subscription growth slowdown during the earnings call, attributing it partly to the timing of price increases from its partners, including Spotify Technology SA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPOT#NYSE">SPOT</a>), Amazon.com Inc&#8216;s Amazon Music, and Apple Inc&#8216;s Apple Music. These price hikes have historically boosted UMG&#8217;s subscription revenue but have coincided with a slowdown in subscriber growth on some platforms.
&#8220;The other factor impacting our subscription revenue growth this quarter is the slowdown in subscriber growth at certain platforms, which is occurring while the overall subscription marketplace continues to experience significant growth in subscribers globally,&#8221; Muir explained. 
He noted that while Spotify, YouTube, and many regional and local platforms have maintained healthy growth in subscribers, other large partners have struggled to drive global adoption, resulting in fewer new subscriber additions.
Despite these challenges, Muir emphasized that UMG is &#8220;engaged with all of our key partners&#8221; in discussions about product innovation. He highlighted Spotify&#8217;s comments about its upcoming &#8220;super premium&#8221; offering, which Spotify believes consumers are eagerly anticipating. 
&#8220;Our research and analysis indicate that as many as 20% of the current subscriber base could upgrade to a super-premium tier at a meaningfully higher price point for a compelling product configuration, one which offers enhanced features and exclusive access to content,&#8221; Muir added.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Merchandising And Total Revenue Show Bright Spots</h3>
On a positive note, UMG reported strong growth in its merchandising division, with revenue jumping 44% in Q2, driven by artists like Taylor Swift.
Other top sellers in the first half of 2024 included Morgan Wallen, Noah Kahan, Billie Eilish, and Ariana Grande. Total revenue rose for the 12th consecutive quarter to 2.93 billion euros ($3.18 billion), representing roughly 9% year-over-year growth, surpassing consensus estimates. 
Adjusted EBITDA also increased more than 11% from the prior-year period (excluding FX) to 649 million euros, or $705 million.
Price Action: Shares of UMG were down 3.3% to $23.21 at the time of publication Friday, according to<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"> Benzinga Pro.</a>
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/07/39892457/eminem-dethrones-taylor-swift-with-new-album-the-death-of-slim-shady">Eminem Dethrones Taylor Swift With New Album &#8216;The Death Of Slim Shady&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image credits: Shutterstock.

Entertainment

SPOT

UMGNF

Universal Music Group Shares Plunge After Disappointing Q2 Results

Yellen Says G7 Likely To Agree On $50B Ukraine Loan Terms By October; U.S. Treasury Needs Assurance Frozen Russian Assets Will Cover Loan, Not U.S. Taxpayers; EU Working On Alternatives To Meet Sanctions And U.S. Needs

Serve Robotics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SERV#NASDAQ">SERV</a>) shares are surging Friday possibly from continued momentum from yesterday and recent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39972757/serve-robotics-stock-continues-to-soar-whats-going-on">positive developments for the company.</a>
What Happened: Earlier this week, Serve Robotics announced the closing of a $15 million private placement with a single institutional investor. The private placement includes the sale of pre-funded warrants to purchase 2.5 million shares of common stock and warrants to purchase up to an additional 2.5 million shares at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. The gross proceeds from this offering are expected to support Serve&#8217;s strategic growth initiatives.
Additionally, Serve Robotics appointed finance leader David Goldberg to its Board of Directors and reappointed Sarfraz Maredia, an Uber Technologies executive, at their 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. David Goldberg, with over 20 years of experience and Sarfraz Maredia&#8217;s continued presence on the board are anticipated to provide valuable strategic insights and leadership as Serve Robotics aims for further growth.
What Else: The stock is experiencing higher than average volume, with 66.934 million shares traded compared to the 100-day average volume of 9.073 million. Additionally, Serve Robotics is trending on social media platforms like Yahoo Finance.
Recent trading activity also shows that Serve Robotics shares have been seeing increased attention since NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) reported a 10% stake in the robotics company near the end of last week. 
SERV Price Action: Serve Robotics shares are trading at $14.09, up 16% according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro.</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="http://www.benzinga.com/pro/register/?utm_source=BZprocontent072624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="559" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26131901/SERV-1024x559.png" alt="" class="wp-image-460059" style="width:479px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26131901/SERV-1024x559.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26131901/SERV-300x164.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26131901/SERV-768x419.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26131901/SERV.png 1407w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
See Also:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39990138/general-motors-cruise-aims-to-resume-driverless-rides-this-year-report">General Motors&#8217; Cruise Aims To Resume Driverless Rides This Year: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy of Serve Robotics, Inc.

Movers

NVDA

SERV

What's Going On With Serve Robotics Shares Today?

XPeng Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPEV#NYSE">XPEV</a>) shares are trading higher after the company&#8217;s Chairman &amp; CEO said the company will launch a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/movers" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;highly competitive&#8217; Robotaxi in 2026.</a>
Xiaopeng He, Chairman &amp; CEO Of XPENG Motors, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7222495713589444608/" rel="noreferrer noopener">posts</a> on Linkedin, &#8220;&#8230; XPENG&#8217;s Robotaxi will follow a set pace and launch a highly competitive Robotaxi in 2026. Moreover, we will not get involved in operations, but will work with our beloved partners to drive this revolution&#8230;&#8221;
Compared to EV giant Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), CEO He notes that Tesla focuses on managing everything from the vehicle to operations, unlike XPeng&#8217;s approach.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39472148/xpeng-ceo-says-teslas-fsd-works-well-in-silicon-valley-2025-will-be-the-chatgpt-moment-of-fully-self" rel="noreferrer noopener">XPeng CEO Says Tesla&#8217;s FSD Works Well In Silicon Valley: ‘2025 Will Be The ChatGPT Moment Of Fully Self-Driving!&#8217;</a>
Last month, the XPeng CEO tested&nbsp;Tesla&#8217;s full self-driving software, which is slated for&nbsp;i<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39408748/xpeng-ceo-tests-teslas-full-self-driving-software-in-us-compares-teslas-full-self-driving-softwa" rel="noreferrer noopener">ntroduction in China later this year.</a>
He also asked his followers what aspects they are most interested in comparing between Tesla&#8217;s full self-driving software and XPeng&#8217;s XNGP (XPeng Navigation Guided Pilot), CnEV Post&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cnevpost.com/2024/06/20/xpeng-ceo-tests-tesla-fsd-v12-in-us/" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported.</a>
Meanwhile, XPeng reportedly plans to introduce a new model, known&nbsp;internally as F57<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39684591/xpeng-follows-teslas-lead-reportedly-ditches-lidar-in-new-model-f57-for-pure-vision-driving" rel="noreferrer noopener">, in the fourth quarter.</a>
This model will eliminate the use of LiDAR technology. The new model will not incorporate LiDAR technology, the report read, citing a source familiar with the matter. Instead, its smart driving system will transition to a pure vision solution similar to&nbsp;Tesla.
Price Action: XPEV shares are trading higher by 4.02% to $8.53 at last check Friday.
Photo by Koshiro K on Shutterstock
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/07/39987142/feds-favorite-inflation-gauge-keeps-falling-but-fed-wants-durable-downward-trend-economist-says" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fed&#8217;s Favorite Inflation Gauge Keeps Falling But Fed Wants &#8216;Durable Downward Trend,&#8217; Economist Says</a></li>
</ul>

Media

TSLA

XPEV

Why XPeng Shares Are Gaining Today

Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLRY#NASDAQ">TLRY</a>) shares are trending on Friday. The company is anticipated to release 2024 fiscal year and fourth quarter earnings on Monday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39927944/tilray-brands-announced-another-milestone-achievement-in-medical-cannabis-in-europe">after the market closes</a>.
What To Know: For the fourth quarter, analysts estimate a loss of 2 cents per share and revenue of $227.07 million.
Tilray&#8217;s stock is currently trading at $1.81 which is right around its 50 day moving average of $1.8 and on the lower end of its 52 week range. The stock&#8217;s 52 week range is from $1.6 to $3.4.
Earlier this week, the company received approval for a medical cannabis extract, Tilray Solução Oral THC10:CBD10 in Portugal. On Monday, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39895214/cannabis-stocks-react-to-biden-announcement-mondays-closing-market-moves">Tilray stock</a> along with the cannabis sector reacted to President Joe Biden&#8216;s announcement that he is no longer seeking re-election. Tilray stock traded 6.70% higher at $1.87 as of Monday at market close.
Vice President Kamala Harris&#8216;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39874209/joe-biden-drops-out-what-would-happen-with-cannabis-legalization-under-kamala-harris-or-donald-t">stance</a> on cannabis currently is that users should not face jail time. During her time as prosecutor, Harris enforced legislation that criminalized marijuana.
How To Buy Tilray Brands Stock
Besides going to a brokerage platform to purchase a share &#8211; or fractional share &#8211; of stock, you can also gain access to shares either by buying an exchange traded fund (ETF) that holds the stock itself, or by allocating yourself to a strategy in your 401(k) that would seek to acquire shares in a mutual fund or other instrument. 
For example, in Tilray Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLRY#NASDAQ">TLRY</a>)'s case, it is in the Health Care sector. An ETF will likely hold shares in many liquid and large companies that help track that sector, allowing an investor to gain exposure to the trends within that segment.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/cannabis/24/07/39943199/cannabis-stock-gainers-and-losers-from-july-24-2024">Cannabis Stock Gainers And Losers From July 24, 2024</a>
TLRY Price Action: At the time of publication, Tilray Brands stock is trading 3.09% higher at $1.83 per data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Image: 8921522 from Pixabay.

TLRY

What's Going On With Tilray Brands Stock Friday?

JMP Securities analyst David Turkaly reiterates Steris (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STE#NYSE">STE</a>) with a Market Outperform and maintains $265 price target.

JMP Securities Reiterates Market Outperform on Steris, Maintains $265 Price Target

U.S. retail giant Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) has been investigated twice this week for allegedly conducting suspected tax evasion in Italy.
Italy&#8217;s tax police on Tuesday seized about 121 million euros ($131 million) from Amazon Italia Transport in Milan as part of an investigation into alleged tax fraud and illegal labor practices, according to prosecutors&#8217; documents, Reuters reported.
The Milan Prosecutors&#8217; Office accused the logistic services unit of dodging labor and tax laws, relying on cooperatives or limited liability companies to supply workers while skipping value-added-tax duties and lowering social security payments.
Prosecutors alleged that the Amazon unit did this to maintain competitive prices in the Italian market, while Amazon said it complied to all applicable laws and regulations and will continue to help authorities with inquiries.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/07/39873953/amazon-prime-day-sees-record-sales-despite-economic-woes">Amazon Prime Day Sees Record Sales Despite Economic Woes</a>
Two sources said on Friday that Milan is also probing Amazon for suspected tax evasion at another business unit in Milan, according to Reuters. This investigation, which is unrelated to the other incident, began in 2021 and was triggered by tax police holding routine checks north of Milan, the sources said.
The probe centers on tax regulations related to trading goods both within Italy and internationally, particularly focusing on value-added taxes and customs duties, according to the sources.
The size of the potential tax evasion has not yet been quantified, the sources told Reuters.
Italy&#8217;s tax authorities and tax police in Monza, a city north of Milan, have looked into Amazon accounts in Italy over the past few years as part pf this probe, they added.
An email to Amazon seeking comment on the two investigations has not been immediately returned.
Price Action: Amazon had gained 1.36% to $182.30 at the time of publication Friday.
Read Now: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39611561/tesla-paramount-global-annovis-bio-eli-lilly-amazon-why-these-5-stocks-are-on-investors-radars-t">Tesla, Paramount Global, Annovis Bio, Eli Lilly, Amazon: Why These 5 Stocks Are On Investors&#8217; Radars Today</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Tech

AMZN

Amazon Faces Dual Investigations In Italy For Alleged Tax Evasion, Labor Violations

JMP Securities analyst Trevor Walsh reiterates Tyler Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TYL#NYSE">TYL</a>) with a Market Outperform and maintains $580 price target.

JMP Securities Reiterates Market Outperform on Tyler Technologies, Maintains $580 Price Target

JMP Securities analyst Devin Ryan maintains LPL Finl Hldgs (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LPLA#NASDAQ">LPLA</a>) with a Market Outperform and raises the price target from $305 to $310.

LPLA

JMP Securities Maintains Market Outperform on LPL Finl Hldgs, Raises Price Target to $310

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Royal Caribbean Gr (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RCL#NYSE">RCL</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether this is an institution or just a wealthy individual, we don't know. But when something this big happens with RCL, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 11 options trades for Royal Caribbean Gr.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 9% bullish and 72%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, 10 are puts, for a total amount of $574,619, and there was 1 call, for a total amount of $40,800.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $145.0 to $170.0 for Royal Caribbean Gr over the recent three months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Royal Caribbean Gr'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 Royal Caribbean Gr's whale trades within a strike price range from $145.0 to $170.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Royal Caribbean Gr Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722017779_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>RCL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$9.8</td>
<td>$9.1</td>
<td>$9.75</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$118.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">433</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">325</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RCL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$11.68</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$80.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">748</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">33</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RCL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$9.6</td>
<td>$9.3</td>
<td>$9.55</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$74.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">433</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">78</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RCL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$11.68</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$71.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">748</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">146</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RCL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$11.65</td>
<td>$11.55</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$49.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">748</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">252</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Royal Caribbean Gr</h3>
Royal Caribbean is the world's second-largest cruise company, operating 65 ships across five global and partner brands in the cruise vacation industry, with eight more ships on order. Brands the company operates include Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. The company also has a 50% investment in a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. The selection of brands in the portfolio allows Royal to compete on the basis of innovation, quality of ships and service, variety of itineraries, choice of destinations, and price. The company completed the divestiture of its Azamara brand in the first quarter of 2021.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Royal Caribbean Gr, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Royal Caribbean Gr</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,927,025, the price of RCL is up by 1.64%, reaching $154.52.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 90 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Royal Caribbean Gr</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $191.4.
<ul>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Stifel continues to hold a Buy rating for Royal Caribbean Gr, targeting a price of $200. </li>
<li>An analyst from Goldman Sachs has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Royal Caribbean Gr, which currently sits at a price target of $195. </li>
<li>An analyst from Mizuho has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on Royal Caribbean Gr, which currently sits at a price target of $195. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Barclays keeps a Overweight rating on Royal Caribbean Gr with a target price of $195. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from B of A Securities keeps a Neutral rating on Royal Caribbean Gr with a target price of $172. </li>
</ul>
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Royal Caribbean Gr options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

A Closer Look at Royal Caribbean Gr's Options Market Dynamics

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on Texas Instruments.
Looking at options history for Texas Instruments (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXN#NASDAQ">TXN</a>) we detected 12 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 25% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 50% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 7 are puts, for a total amount of $309,043 and 5, calls, for a total amount of $583,472.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $195.0 to $210.0 for Texas Instruments over the recent three months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Texas Instruments stands at 586.22, with a total volume reaching 2,282.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Texas Instruments, situated within the strike price corridor from $195.0 to $210.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Texas Instruments Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722017774_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TXN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$6.6</td>
<td>$6.45</td>
<td>$6.5</td>
<td>$210.00</td>
<td>$455.0K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TXN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/30/24</td>
<td>$6.45</td>
<td>$6.4</td>
<td>$6.4</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$76.8K</td>
<td>20</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">126</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TXN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/09/24</td>
<td>$4.75</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$202.50</td>
<td>$52.1K</td>
<td>2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">113</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TXN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$5.45</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$195.00</td>
<td>$45.3K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">106</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TXN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>08/02/24</td>
<td>$3.85</td>
<td>$3.75</td>
<td>$3.75</td>
<td>$202.50</td>
<td>$37.3K</td>
<td>71</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">201</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Texas Instruments</h3>
Dallas-based Texas Instruments generates over 95% of its revenue from semiconductors and the remainder from its well-known calculators. Texas Instruments is the world's largest maker of analog chips, which are used to process real-world signals such as sound and power. Texas Instruments also has a leading market share position in processors and microcontrollers used in a wide variety of electronics applications.
<h3>Current Position of Texas Instruments</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 3,109,633, the TXN's price is up by 1.61%, now at $200.33. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 88 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Texas Instruments</h3>
A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $198.8.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Baird has decided to maintain their Neutral rating on Texas Instruments, which currently sits at a price target of $200. </li>
<li>An analyst from Deutsche Bank persists with their Hold rating on Texas Instruments, maintaining a target price of $185. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Rosenblatt continues to hold a Buy rating for Texas Instruments, targeting a price of $250. </li>
<li>An analyst from Morgan Stanley has decided to maintain their Underweight rating on Texas Instruments, which currently sits at a price target of $156. </li>
<li>An analyst from Truist Securities has decided to maintain their Hold rating on Texas Instruments, which currently sits at a price target of $203. </li>
</ul>
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Texas Instruments with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Texas Instruments's Options Frenzy: What You Need to Know

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with MRK, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 10 options trades for Merck &amp; Co.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 70% bullish and 20%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $93,721, and 9, calls, for a total amount of $344,552.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $105.0 to $130.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Merck &amp; Co's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Merck &amp; Co's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $105.0 to $130.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722017769_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/02/24</td>
<td>$0.93</td>
<td>$0.8</td>
<td>$0.8</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$93.7K</td>
<td>142</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/02/24</td>
<td>$1.6</td>
<td>$1.38</td>
<td>$1.45</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$72.6K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$2.7</td>
<td>$2.16</td>
<td>$2.7</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$54.0K</td>
<td>5.1K</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/02/24</td>
<td>$1.48</td>
<td>$1.42</td>
<td>$1.48</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$37.9K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/02/24</td>
<td>$2.12</td>
<td>$2.02</td>
<td>$2.02</td>
<td>$128.00</td>
<td>$36.3K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Merck &amp; Co, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Present Market Standing of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 3,124,311, the price of MRK is up by 0.09%, reaching $125.96.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 4 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
1 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $134.0.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Morgan Stanley has decided to maintain their Equal-Weight rating on Merck &amp; Co, which currently sits at a price target of $134. </li>
</ul>
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Merck &amp; Co options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Merck & Co's Options: A Look at What the Big Money is Thinking

In a striking incident earlier this month, an executive at Ferrari NV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RACE#NYSE">RACE</a>) found himself receiving unusual messages that appeared to be from the company's CEO, Benedetto Vigna.
The messages, arriving through WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), suggested a major acquisition was in the works and required the executive's assistance.
The messages purportedly from Vigna had a different phone number and profile picture than usual. Despite the convincing image of the bespectacled CEO in front of Ferrari's prancing-horse logo, the executive grew suspicious.
One message urged, "Be ready to sign the Non-Disclosure Agreement our lawyer is set to send you asap," and mentioned that "Italy's market regulator and Milan stock-exchange have been already informed. Stay ready and please utmost discretion," reported Bloomberg.
This was a sophisticated attempt to use deepfake technology to infiltrate Ferrari.
The executive realized something was amiss when he noticed subtle mechanical intonations in the voice and a different phone number.
Suspicions were confirmed when the imposter could not answer a verification question about a book recently recommended by Vigna, leading to the abrupt end of the call.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39395622/ferraris-first-electric-car-to-cost-over-500-000-higher-than-tesla-roadster-porsche-taycan-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ferrari's First Electric Car To Cost Over $500,000, Higher Than Tesla Roadster, Porsche Taycan: Report</a>
This incident is part of a growing trend where deepfake scams target high-profile executives. Similar tactics were used against WPP PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WPP#NYSE">WPP</a>) CEO Mark Read in May, though that attempt also failed, according to Bloomberg.
"This year we're seeing an increase in criminals attempting to voice clone using AI," said Rachel Tobac, CEO of cybersecurity training company SocialProof Security.
While deepfake technology has not yet caused widespread deception, significant losses have occurred. A multinational company in Hong Kong was scammed out of HK$200 million ($26 million) earlier this year through deepfake technology.
CyberArk Software (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CYBR#NASDAQ">CYBR</a>), an information security company, is already training its executives to identify such scams.
"It's just a matter of time before these AI-based deepfake tools become incredibly accurate," warned Stefano Zanero, a cybersecurity professor at Italy's Politecnico di Milano.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo: B_A from Pixabay

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Comments

Meganet

News

Latest news for Meganet (OTC:MGNT) Stock

Tuesday, June 16, 2020