CONTAINER STORE GROUP INC by Container Store Group, Inc. Stock (OTC: TCSGQ)

Latest news for CONTAINER STORE GROUP INC by Container Store Group, Inc. (OTC:TCSGQ) Stock

CONTAINER STORE GROUP INC by Container Store Group, Inc.

<p>Compass Point  analyst Casey Alexander   maintains Saratoga Investment (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAR#NYSE">SAR</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $26.25 to $25.25.</p>


News

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

Compass Point Maintains Buy on Saratoga Investment, Lowers Price Target to $25.25

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on <strong>Booking Holdings</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKNG#NASDAQ">BKNG</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with BKNG, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 52 uncommon options trades for Booking Holdings.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 40% bullish and 30%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 22 are puts, for a total amount of $2,366,480, and 30 are calls, for a total amount of $2,064,351.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $3100.0 to $6600.0 for Booking Holdings over the recent three months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
<p>Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Booking Holdings's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Booking Holdings's significant trades, within a strike price range of $3100.0 to $6600.0, over the past month.</p>
<h3>Booking Holdings Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736793933_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>BKNG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$156.6</td>
<td>$131.6</td>
<td>$133.0</td>
<td>$3100.00</td>
<td>$665.0K</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BKNG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$353.1</td>
<td>$333.2</td>
<td>$338.0</td>
<td>$4800.00</td>
<td>$405.6K</td>
<td align="right">27</td>
<td align="right">12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BKNG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$622.8</td>
<td>$597.8</td>
<td>$600.0</td>
<td>$5000.00</td>
<td>$300.0K</td>
<td align="right">55</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BKNG</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$204.7</td>
<td>$191.5</td>
<td>$196.06</td>
<td>$5200.00</td>
<td>$235.2K</td>
<td align="right">51</td>
<td align="right">12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BKNG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$198.0</td>
<td>$189.8</td>
<td>$189.8</td>
<td>$4350.00</td>
<td>$208.7K</td>
<td align="right">23</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Booking Holdings</h3>
<p>Booking is the world's largest online travel agency by sales, offering booking and payment services for hotel and alternative accommodation rooms, airline tickets, rental cars, restaurant reservations, cruises, experiences, and other vacation packages. The company operates several branded travel booking sites, including Booking.com, Agoda, OpenTable, and Rentalcars.com, and has expanded into travel media with the acquisitions of Kayak and Momondo. Transaction fees for online bookings account for the bulk of revenue and profits.</p>
<p>Having examined the options trading patterns of Booking Holdings, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance</p>
<h3>Current Position of Booking Holdings</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 100,917, with BKNG's price up by 0.33%, positioned at $4755.0.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 38 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Booking Holdings</h3>
<p>5 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $5624.4.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from JMP Securities has decided to maintain their Market Outperform rating on Booking Holdings, which currently sits at a price target of $6100.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Mizuho persists with their Outperform rating on Booking Holdings, maintaining a target price of $6000.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Morgan Stanley persists with their Equal-Weight rating on Booking Holdings, maintaining a target price of $5000.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from B of A Securities has decided to maintain their Neutral rating on Booking Holdings, which currently sits at a price target of $5522.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Wedbush continues to hold a Outperform rating for Booking Holdings, targeting a price of $5500. </p>
<p>Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Booking Holdings, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


Options

Markets

BKNG

Booking Holdings Unusual Options Activity

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on <strong>Microsoft</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with MSFT, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 118 uncommon options trades for Microsoft.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 36% bullish and 45%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 41 are puts, for a total amount of $2,862,668, and 77 are calls, for a total amount of $4,511,578.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $200.0 and $520.0 for Microsoft, spanning the last three months.</p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Microsoft stands at 1934.17, with a total volume reaching 26,325.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Microsoft, situated within the strike price corridor from $200.0 to $520.0, throughout the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>Microsoft Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736793928_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$33.2</td>
<td>$32.95</td>
<td>$33.15</td>
<td>$420.00</td>
<td>$291.5K</td>
<td>202</td>
<td align="right">94</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$11.35</td>
<td>$11.15</td>
<td>$11.16</td>
<td>$405.00</td>
<td>$251.1K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td align="right">69</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$17.45</td>
<td>$17.3</td>
<td>$17.3</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$173.0K</td>
<td>6.2K</td>
<td align="right">322</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$168.65</td>
<td>$168.25</td>
<td>$168.65</td>
<td>$250.00</td>
<td>$168.6K</td>
<td>469</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$91.0</td>
<td>$90.25</td>
<td>$91.0</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$145.6K</td>
<td>911</td>
<td align="right">19</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Microsoft</h3>
<p>Microsoft develops and licenses consumer and enterprise software. It is known for its Windows operating systems and Office productivity suite. The company is organized into three equally sized broad segments: productivity and business processes (legacy Microsoft Office, cloud-based Office 365, Exchange, SharePoint, Skype, LinkedIn, Dynamics), intelligence cloud (infrastructure- and platform-as-a-service offerings Azure, Windows Server OS, SQL Server), and more personal computing (Windows Client, Xbox, Bing search, display advertising, and Surface laptops, tablets, and desktops).</p>
<h3>Microsoft's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 8,398,244, the MSFT's price is down by -0.9%, now at $415.17. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 16 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Microsoft</h3>
<p>A total of 4 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $527.5.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Loop Capital has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Microsoft, which currently sits at a price target of $550.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Stifel has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Microsoft, which currently sits at a price target of $515.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from UBS continues to hold a Buy rating for Microsoft, targeting a price of $525.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Piper Sandler keeps a Overweight rating on Microsoft with a target price of $520. </p>
<p>Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Microsoft options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


MSFT

Looking At Microsoft's Recent Unusual Options Activity

<p>Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on <strong>Axon Enterprise</strong>.</p>
<p>Looking at options history for Axon Enterprise (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXON#NASDAQ">AXON</a>) we detected 14 trades.</p>
<p>If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 28% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 35% with bearish.</p>
<p>From the overall spotted trades, 9 are puts, for a total amount of $299,864 and 5, calls, for a total amount of $416,137.</p>
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $240.0 to $670.0 for Axon Enterprise during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Axon Enterprise's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Axon Enterprise's significant trades, within a strike price range of $240.0 to $670.0, over the past month.</p>
<h3>Axon Enterprise Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736793923_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AXON</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$17.2</td>
<td>$14.5</td>
<td>$14.4</td>
<td>$600.00</td>
<td>$187.2K</td>
<td align="right">737</td>
<td align="right">137</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AXON</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$325.9</td>
<td>$322.0</td>
<td>$324.29</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$97.2K</td>
<td align="right">32</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AXON</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$49.8</td>
<td>$47.8</td>
<td>$49.07</td>
<td>$570.00</td>
<td>$49.0K</td>
<td align="right">108</td>
<td align="right">21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AXON</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$49.8</td>
<td>$47.8</td>
<td>$48.98</td>
<td>$570.00</td>
<td>$48.9K</td>
<td align="right">108</td>
<td align="right">11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AXON</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$85.9</td>
<td>$82.2</td>
<td>$84.5</td>
<td>$590.00</td>
<td>$42.2K</td>
<td align="right">512</td>
<td align="right">15</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Axon Enterprise</h3>
<p>Axon Enterprise Inc develops, manufactures, and sells conducted energy devices and cloud-based digital evidence management software designed for use by law enforcement, corrections, military forces, private security personnel, and private individuals for personal defense. The company operates in two segments: Taser and software &amp; sensors. Taser develops and sells CEDs used for protecting users and virtual reality training. Software and sensors manufacture fully integrated hardware and cloud-based software solutions such as body cameras, automated license plate reading, and digital evidence management systems. Axon delivers its products worldwide and derives the majority of its revenue from the software &amp; sensors segment and geographically from the United States.</p>
<p>Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Axon Enterprise, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of Axon Enterprise</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 170,264, with AXON's price down by -1.58%, positioned at $561.0.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 43 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Axon Enterprise</h3>
<p>In the last month, 1 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $700.0.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from TD Cowen downgraded its rating to Buy, setting a price target of $700. </p>
<p>Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Axon Enterprise options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


AXON

Check Out What Whales Are Doing With AXON

<p>President-elect <strong>Donald Trump's</strong> cabinet picks are set to begin the confirmation process with several appearing before Senate committees this week. Former Fox News host <strong>Pete Hegseth</strong> and former Georgia Congressman<strong> Doug Collins</strong> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42936887/trumps-treasury-pick-scott-bessent-reveals-up-to-500000-bitcoin-stake-via-blackrocks-etf">are up first on Tuesday.</a></p>
<p><strong>Hegseth:</strong> Hegseth, an Iraq and Afghanistan War veteran <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41952962/trumps-surprise-defense-secretary-pick-pete-hegseth-jolts-wall-street">who has not</a> held a government position, is Trump's pick for Defense Secretary and will face questions from the Senate Armed Forces Committee on Tuesday. </p>
<p>Critics have blasted Hegseth for his lack of leadership experience and past allegations of financial mismanagement and sexual misconduct. However, Senate Majority Leader<strong> John Thune</strong> has told Trump that he thinks Hegseth will have the votes to be confirmed as Secretary of Defense, according to three sources <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pete-hegseth-votes-confirmation-defense-secretary-john-thune-donald-trump/">as reported </a>by CBS News.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Read Next: </strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42919029/supreme-court-hears-tiktok-oral-arguments"><strong>Supreme Court Hears TikTok Arguments With App&#8217;s Ban Ahead: &#8216;Essentially, The Platform Shuts Down&#8217;&nbsp;</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>Collins: </strong>Collins, who served in Congress from 2013 to 2021 and is an Air Force Reserve chaplain and Iraq War veteran, is set to appear before the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee on Tuesday for consideration as the next Veterans Affairs Secretary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Collins is widely anticipated to receive Senate confirmation due to the combination of his military and political experience.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Why It Matters: </strong>Both of Trump's picks appearing before the Senate on Tuesday would have implications for the military if confirmed and therefore, aerospace and defense stocks should be watched.&nbsp;The <strong>iShares US Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#NYSE">ITA</a>) rose following Trump's election win but has since retreated from all-time highs reached in November.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Defense contractors, including <strong>General Dynamics Corp. </strong>(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), <strong>Lockheed Martin Corp. </strong>(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and <strong>RTX Corp.</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>), also spiked around the election and could move again as the Senate confirmation process begins. </p>
<p><strong>Read More:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/42900817/quantum-stocks-regetti-computing-ionq-d-wave-poised-to-open-higher-after-nvidia-ceo-comments-drove-huge-losses"><strong>Quantum Stocks Regetti Computing, IonQ, D-Wave Poised To Open Higher After Nvidia CEO Comments Drove Huge Losses</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Photo: Caleb James Fisher via Shutterstock</em></p>


Equities

Government

Sector ETFs

Politics

ETFs

iShares Dow Jones US Aerospace & Defense Index Fund

Trump Cabinet Confirmation Hearings Begin Tuesday: Pete Hegseth, Doug Collins Up First

<p>BWS Financial  analyst Hamed Khorsand   initiates coverage on Nebius Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NBIS#NASDAQ">NBIS</a>) with a Buy rating and announces Price Target of $51.</p>


Initiation

NBIS

BWS Financial Initiates Coverage On Nebius Group with Buy Rating, Announces Price Target of $51

<p><strong>BofA Securities </strong>analyst Ross Fowler upgraded the shares of <strong>American Electric Power Company Inc</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) from Underperform to Buy and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AEP/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">raised the price target from $98 to $104.</a></p>
<p>The analyst upgraded the stock after the company announced the sale of a 19.9% minority stake in its transmission holding assets for $2.8 billion, along with the appointment of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/n42844381/aep-names-seasoned-energy-executive-trevor-mihalik-executive-vice-president-chief-financial-office" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trevor Mihalik as CFO</a>.</p>
<p>The analyst sees the asset sale as a strategic move to meet external equity needs and expect AEP to continue addressing the equity overhang in the short term.</p>
<p>The analyst forecasts a more manageable $2 billion in equity issuance for the second half of 2025, with only the internal dividend reinvestment plan (~$100 million annually) needed to achieve 6% &#8211; 8% EPS growth.</p>
<p>The company&#8217;s progress toward strengthening its balance sheet and potential for EPS growth in future years make AEP an attractive investment opportunity, said the analyst.</p>
<p>Last week, AEP announced an agreement with KKR and PSP Investments, under which AEP will sell a 19.9% minority stake in its I&amp;M and Ohio <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42910243/kkr-and-psp-secure-199-stake-in-american-electric-for-282b" rel="noreferrer noopener">transmission businesses for $2.82 billion</a>.</p>
<p>The analyst expects the proceeds to be primarily used to reduce debt in the short term, and the analyst lowered the equity needs forecast to $2 billion in the form of external issuance.</p>
<p>This leaves just $100 million of internal dividend reinvestment plans to meet equity requirements through the 2029 forecast period, noted the analyst.</p>
<p>Following the transaction, the analyst has revised the EPS outlook to $5.83 for 2025, $6.26 for 2026, $6.80 for 2027, and $7.33 for 2028.</p>
<p>This aligns with AEP&#8217;s guidance for an average EPS accretion of $0.11 &#8211; $0.12, with the most significant accretion occurring in 2027-2029.</p>
<p>The analyst values AEP using a sum-of-the-parts approach, leading to a slight discount compared to the industry average 2026 P/E multiple, based on 2026 EPS estimate of $6.26.</p>
<p><strong>Price Action</strong>: AEP shares are trading higher by 1.20% at $94.63 on the last check Monday.</p>
<p><em>Photo by Ground Picture on Shutterstock.</em></p>


Analyst Color

Upgrades

Trading Ideas

General

American Electric Power Is Attractive Going Forward, Analyst Double-Upgrades Stock

<p><strong>22nd Century Group, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XXII#NASDAQ">XXII</a>) stock is moving higher on Monday after the company announced its readiness to support the Food and Drug Administration&#8217;s (FDA) proposed standard to mandate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42941869">reduced nicotine content</a> in cigarettes.</p>
<p><strong>What To Know:</strong> The proposed standard aligns with the FDA&#8217;s long-standing effort to drastically reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes and is consistent with the concept behind 22nd Century&#8217;s very low nicotine content cigarettes. Earlier this month, the possible new regulation cleared review by the United States Office of Management and Budget.</p>
<p><strong>Larry Firestone</strong>, CEO of 22nd Century, said, &#8220;The FDA has openly stated that this could be the most impactful action for the improvement of public health in reducing the widespread and clearly documented harms of smoking.&#8221;</p>
<p>Firestone added, &#8220;22nd Century has played a pivotal role in the research, development, and numerous federally funded clinical studies underpinning this policy, which has been advanced across multiple administrations since 2009, including action under the first Trump administration.&#8221;</p>
<p>22nd Century stock is trading on higher-than-normal volume at 15.33 million shares. The company&#8217;s average session volume over the past 100 days is 111.75 thousand, according to data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/news/25/01/42953410/price-over-earnings-overview-first-citizens-bancshares">Price Over Earnings Overview: First Citizens BancShares</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>XXII Price Action:</strong> At the time of writing, 22nd Century Group stock is trading 55% higher at $7.60, per data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>
<p><em>Image: via Shutterstock</em></p>


Movers

XXII

What's Going On With 22nd Century Group Shares Monday?

<p>Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Roblox. Our analysis of options history for Roblox (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>) revealed 17 unusual trades.</p>
<p>Delving into the details, we found 52% of traders were bullish, while 41% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 11 were puts, with a value of $992,408, and 6 were calls, valued at $241,657.</p>
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
<p>After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $42.5 and $67.5 for Roblox, spanning the last three months.</p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Roblox's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Roblox's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $42.5 to $67.5 over the preceding 30 days.</p>
<h3>Roblox Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736793030_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>RBLX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/07/25</td>
<td>$4.25</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$205.0K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RBLX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/07/25</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$4.05</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$169.3K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>822</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RBLX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/07/25</td>
<td>$4.2</td>
<td>$4.15</td>
<td>$4.2</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$127.2K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>336</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RBLX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$11.95</td>
<td>$11.8</td>
<td>$11.95</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$111.1K</td>
<td>55</td>
<td>129</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RBLX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$6.05</td>
<td>$5.95</td>
<td>$5.95</td>
<td>$62.50</td>
<td>$95.2K</td>
<td>4.3K</td>
<td>161</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Roblox</h3>
<p>Roblox operates an online video game platform with 80 million daily active users that lets young gamers create, develop, and monetize games (or "experiences") for other players. The firm offers its developers a hybrid of a game engine, publishing platform, online hosting and services, marketplace with payment processing, and social network. The platform is a closed garden that Roblox controls, earning $3.5 billion in bookings in 2023 through in-game purchases and advertising while benefiting from outsourced game development. Unlike traditional video game publishers, Roblox is more focused on the creation of new tools and monetization techniques for its developers than creating new games or franchises.</p>
<p>In light of the recent options history for Roblox, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.</p>
<h3>Roblox's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 4,445,438, the RBLX's price is down by -1.75%, now at $60.74. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 24 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Roblox</h3>
<p>In the last month, 2 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $73.5.</p>
<p><strong>Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?</strong></p>
<p>20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Morgan Stanley persists with their Overweight rating on Roblox, maintaining a target price of $75.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from JP Morgan has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Roblox, which currently sits at a price target of $72. </p>
<p>Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Roblox with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


RBLX

Roblox Unusual Options Activity

<p>Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards McDonald's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in MCD usually suggests something big is about to happen.</p>
<p>We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 14 extraordinary options activities for McDonald's. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.</p>
<p>The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 35% leaning bullish and 57% bearish. Among these notable options, 12 are puts, totaling $686,596, and 2 are calls, amounting to $94,708.</p>
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $270.0 to $310.0 for McDonald's during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for McDonald's's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across McDonald's's significant trades, within a strike price range of $270.0 to $310.0, over the past month.</p>
<h3>McDonald's 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736793024_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MCD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$1.26</td>
<td>$1.12</td>
<td>$1.25</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$137.5K</td>
<td>8.3K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MCD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$14.65</td>
<td>$13.75</td>
<td>$13.75</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
<td>$75.6K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>285</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MCD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$14.6</td>
<td>$13.95</td>
<td>$13.95</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
<td>$69.7K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>335</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MCD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$37.15</td>
<td>$34.05</td>
<td>$36.65</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$58.6K</td>
<td>46</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MCD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$14.6</td>
<td>$14.2</td>
<td>$14.36</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
<td>$54.5K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>448</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About McDonald's</h3>
<p>McDonald's is the largest restaurant owner-operator in the world, with 2023 system sales of $130 billion across nearly than 42,000 stores and 115 markets. McDonald's pioneered the franchise model, building its footprint through partnerships with independent restaurant franchisees and master franchise partners around the globe. The firm earns roughly 60% of its revenue from franchise royalty fees and lease payments, with most of the remainder coming from company-operated stores across its three core segments: the United States, internationally operated markets, and international developmental/licensed markets.</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of McDonald's</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 1,081,337, with MCD's price up by 0.67%, positioned at $284.19.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 21 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on McDonald's</h3>
<p>A total of 2 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $338.0.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; Showing optimism, an analyst from Citigroup upgrades its rating to Buy with a revised price target of $334.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Loop Capital has revised its rating downward to Buy, adjusting the price target to $342. </p>
<p>Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest McDonald's options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


Looking At McDonald's's Recent Unusual Options Activity

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on <strong>Hims &amp; Hers Health</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with HIMS, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 17 uncommon options trades for Hims &amp; Hers Health.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 47% bullish and 29%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 5 are puts, for a total amount of $219,978, and 12 are calls, for a total amount of $781,205.</p>
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $17.0 to $30.0 for Hims &amp; Hers Health during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.</p>
<p>This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Hims &amp; Hers Health's options for a given strike price.</p>
<p>Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Hims &amp; Hers Health's whale activity within a strike price range from $17.0 to $30.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Hims &amp; Hers Health Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736793020_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$3.9</td>
<td>$3.75</td>
<td>$3.9</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$139.2K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td align="right">384</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$3.95</td>
<td>$3.9</td>
<td>$3.95</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$130.3K</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
<td align="right">648</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$2.93</td>
<td>$2.76</td>
<td>$2.8</td>
<td>$27.00</td>
<td>$86.3K</td>
<td>5.4K</td>
<td align="right">787</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$5.4</td>
<td>$5.25</td>
<td>$5.4</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$75.6K</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
<td align="right">230</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$4.85</td>
<td>$4.75</td>
<td>$4.75</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$66.5K</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
<td align="right">491</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Hims &amp; Hers Health</h3>
<p>Hims &amp; Hers Health Inc is a multi-specialty telehealth platform that connects consumers to licensed healthcare professionals, enabling them to access high-quality medical care for numerous conditions related to mental health, sexual health, dermatology, primary care, and more.</p>
<p>Having examined the options trading patterns of Hims &amp; Hers Health, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance</p>
<h3>Hims &amp; Hers Health's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 6,096,821, with HIMS's price down by -1.89%, positioned at $24.93.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 42 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Hims &amp; Hers Health</h3>
<p>In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $31.4.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Needham keeps a Buy rating on Hims &amp; Hers Health with a target price of $31.<br />
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Morgan Stanley downgraded its rating to Overweight, setting a price target of $42.<br />
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Citigroup downgraded its rating to Sell, setting a price target of $25.<br />
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from BTIG downgraded its rating to Buy, setting a price target of $35.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Piper Sandler continues to hold a Neutral rating for Hims &amp; Hers Health, targeting a price of $24. </p>
<p>Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Hims &amp; Hers Health options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

Hims & Hers Health Options Trading: A Deep Dive into Market Sentiment

<p><strong>Tether</strong> (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">USDT</a>) on Monday announced it has acquired a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) license by El Salvador, allowing it to subsequently relocate its operations to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42893089/el-salvadors-nayib-bukele-says-maybe-well-all-get-the-chance-to-buy-bitcoin-at-a-discount-after-doj-clears-sale-of-over-69k-btc">the Central American nation</a>.</p>
<p><strong>What Happened: </strong>In a press release, the company stated El Salvador&#8217;s crypto-friendly policies, favorable regulations and adoption of digital assets by its citizens prompted the decision to relocate.</p>
<p>&#8220;This strategic positioning is helping to shape the future of financial systems, making the country a key player in the global fintech landscape,&#8221; Tether stated.</p>
<p>The company further stated that its move to El Salvador positions it to scale its efforts in supporting financial inclusion leveraging Bitcoin and stablecoin adoption in underserved regions.</p>
<p>It added that the move enhances Tether's flexibility to explore &#8220;groundbreaking&#8221; solutions in a supportive regulatory and business environment.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42946219/microstrategy-acquires-2530-bitcoin-for-243m-reaching-450000-btc-in-total-holdings">MicroStrategy Acquires 2,530 Bitcoin For $243M, Reaching 450,000 BTC In Total Holdings</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Why It Matters:</strong> Tether is under scrutiny by U.S. federal authorities for potential sanctions and alleged <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/10/41555467/federal-probe-into-tether-examines-potential-sanctions-and-money-laundering-breaches-wsj">anti-money laundering violations</a>.</p>
<p>In November 2024, unsealed court filings revealed that Mexican and Colombian drug cartels have used Tether and <strong>Bitcoin </strong>(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42166673/drug-cartels-use-tether-and-bitcoin-to-launder-millions-court-documents-reveal">laundering millions of dollars. </a></p>
<p>The documents detail how groups like the Sinaloa cartel exploit stablecoins to move wealth across borders through peer-to-peer networks, over-the-counter trades, and currency exchanges.</p>
<p>A source disclosed to investigators that cartels often buy USDT in Mexico below market rates—given its connection to illicit funds—and later sell it in Colombia. </p>
<p>These activities are complemented by blockchain transactions that obscure the origins of funds, including conversions to <strong>Ethereum </strong>(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>).</p>
<p>Investigations have also uncovered substantial cryptocurrency activity linked to these cartels. </p>
<p>For example, a Binance account under investigation processed $15 million in suspicious transactions between 2020 and 2023. </p>
<p>Tether itself has reported working with global law enforcement agencies on over 195 cases involving illicit activities, blocking more than $2 billion in USDT tied to criminal operations.</p>
<p>The company's CEO <strong>Paolo Ardoino</strong> did not respond to a request for comment</p>
<p><strong>Read Next:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42944474/donald-trump-jr-joins-kalshi-prediction-market-as-strategic-advisor">Donald Trump Jr. Joins Kalshi Prediction Market As Strategic Advisor</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>


Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

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Tether To Relocate Headquarters To El Salvador

<p>Morgan Stanley  analyst Benjamin Swinburne   maintains Warner Music Gr (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMG#NASDAQ">WMG</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $38 to $37.</p>


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<p>Morgan Stanley  analyst Matthew Cost   maintains Unity Software (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/U#NYSE">U</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $24 to $26.</p>


Morgan Stanley Maintains Overweight on Unity Software, Raises Price Target to $26

Biotech

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla Says "Looking At Everything" In The Obesity Market Beyond Injectable GLP-1 Drugs; Says "All In" On Obesity Drug Development

<p>Morgan Stanley  analyst Vincent Andrews   maintains Tronox Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TROX#NYSE">TROX</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $16 to $12.</p>


TROX

Morgan Stanley Maintains Equal-Weight on Tronox Holdings, Lowers Price Target to $12

<p>Morgan Stanley  analyst Matthew Cost   maintains Trade Desk (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TTD#NASDAQ">TTD</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $130 to $145.</p>


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<p>Morgan Stanley  analyst Tejas Savant   maintains Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMO#NYSE">TMO</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $670 to $647.</p>


Morgan Stanley Maintains Overweight on Thermo Fisher Scientific, Lowers Price Target to $647

<p><a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-13/lilly-asks-biden-administration-to-pause-drug-price-negotiations?srnd=homepage-europe">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-13/lilly-asks-biden-administration-to-pause-drug-price-negotiations?srnd=homepage-europe</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Drugmaker Eli Lilly &amp; Co. has asked the US government to pause its forward march with drug-price negotiations, potentially thwarting the Biden administration's plans to release a new list of drug targets before leaving office next week.&nbsp;</p>


'Lilly Asks Biden Administration to Pause Drug-Price Negotiations' - Bloomberg News

<p><strong>Insmed's</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INSM#NYSE">INSM</a>) short percent of float has risen 18.59% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has <strong>15.44 million shares sold short</strong>, which is 8.74% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, <strong>it would take traders 8.63 days to cover their short positions on average.</strong></p>
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><strong>See Also:</strong> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest"><strong>List of the most shorted stocks</strong></a></p>
<h3>Insmed Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736792122_0.png" alt="short_fig" /></p>
<p>As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Insmed 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.</p>
<h3>Comparing Insmed's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<p>According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Insmed's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 5.01%, which means the company has <strong>more</strong> short interest than most of its peers.</p>
<p>Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be <strong>bullish</strong> for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/"><strong>This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</strong></a></p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


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