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

Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Stock, Option Chain

Wendy's

The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.

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The Wendy's Co

WEN Token - United States Dollar

SUMMUS SOLUTIONS NV by Summus Solutions N.V.

Wendy's's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NYSE">WEN</a>) short percent of float has risen 20.91% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 12.19 million shares sold short, which is 8.27% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.84 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Wendy's Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737576926_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Wendy's has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Wendy's's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Wendy's's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.20%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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Looking Into Wendy's's Recent Short Interest

Morgan Stanley analyst John Glass downgrades Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) from Equal-Weight to Underweight and lowers the price target from $22 to $14.

Downgrades

Morgan Stanley Downgrades Wendy's to Underweight, Lowers Price Target to $14

The most oversold stocks in the consumer discretionary sector presents an opportunity to buy into undervalued companies.
The RSI is a momentum indicator, which compares a stock&#8217;s strength on days when prices go up to its strength on days when prices go down. When compared to a stock&#8217;s price action, it can give traders a better sense of how a stock may perform in the short term. An asset is typically considered oversold when the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/rsi"> RSI is below 30</a>, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Here's the latest list of major oversold players in this sector, having an RSI near or below 30.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Krispy Kreme Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DNUT#NASDAQ">DNUT</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Jan. 9, Krispy Kreme announced changes to its global leadership team, naming Nicola Steele as incoming COO. &#8220;These leaders all have extensive company experience, commitment to operational excellence and passion for our iconic fresh doughnuts and beloved brand,&#8221; said Josh Charlesworth, Krispy Kreme CEO. &#8220;As we grow, these leadership changes will result in both a bigger and better Krispy Kreme.&#8221; The company has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DNUT">52-week low of $8.78</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 27.3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>DNUT Price Action: Shares of Krispy Kreme fell 0.6% to close at $8.94 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to latest <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011625&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">DNUT news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011625&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="907" height="807" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054417/image-103.png" alt="" class="wp-image-736405" style="width:561px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054417/image-103.png 907w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054417/image-103-300x267.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054417/image-103-768x683.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 907px) 100vw, 907px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wendy&#8217;s Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Wendy&#8217;s Company will report fourth quarter and full year 2024 results on Feb. 13, 2025. The company's stock fell around 10% over the past month and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN">has a 52-week low</a> of $14.74.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 23.9</li>
<li>WEN Price Action: Shares of Wendy&#8217;s closed at $15.13 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the trend <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011625&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">in WEN stock</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011625&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="918" height="842" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054512/image-104.png" alt="" class="wp-image-736406" style="width:595px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054512/image-104.png 918w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054512/image-104-300x275.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054512/image-104-768x704.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 918px) 100vw, 918px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LVS#NYSE">LVS</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Jan. 14, Morgan Stanley downgraded the stock from Overweight to Equal-Weight and cut its price target from $53 to $51. The company's stock fell around 16% over the past month and has a 52-week <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LVS">low of $36.62</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 23.5</li>
<li>LVS Price Action: Shares of Las Vegas Sands fell 1.8% to close at $44.20 on Wednesday. </li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s signals feature notified of a potential <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011625&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">breakout in LVS shares</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011625&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="890" height="848" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054605/image-105.png" alt="" class="wp-image-736409" style="width:541px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054605/image-105.png 890w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054605/image-105-300x286.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16054605/image-105-768x732.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 890px) 100vw, 890px" /></a></figure>
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Stifel analyst Chris O'Cull maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Hold and lowers the price target from $18 to $17.

Stifel Maintains Hold on Wendy's, Lowers Price Target to $17

8 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The following table provides a quick overview of their recent ratings, highlighting the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have recently evaluated Wendy's and provided 12-month price targets. The average target is $19.38, accompanied by a high estimate of $22.00 and a low estimate of $17.00. Observing a 0.68% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $19.25. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736287253_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study</h2>
A clear picture of Wendy's's perception among financial experts is painted with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dennis Geiger</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Strelzik</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jake Bartlett</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Wendy's. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Wendy's compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Wendy's's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of Wendy's's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Wendy's analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know Wendy's Better</h2>
The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.
<h3>Wendy's: Delving into Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Positioned below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization faces constraints in size. This could be influenced by factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Revenue Growth: Wendy's's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 30 September, 2024, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 2.94%. This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Consumer Discretionary sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Wendy's's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 8.86% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): Wendy's's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 18.82% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Wendy's's ROA is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 0.99%, the company may encounter challenges in delivering satisfactory returns from its assets.
Debt Management: Wendy's's debt-to-equity ratio is notably higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 15.77, the company relies more heavily on borrowed funds, indicating a higher level of financial risk.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: What Are They?</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
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The Analyst Verdict: Wendy's In The Eyes Of 8 Experts

Barclays analyst Jeffrey A. Bernstein has outlined top themes to watch out for in the U.S. restaurants in 2025.
The restaurant industry, according to the analyst, is experiencing mixed results as it navigates a volatile environment heading into the third quarter of 2024.
A recent preview highlighted that many companies have struggled to meet expectations regarding same-store sales and earnings per share, noted the analyst.
Despite these challenges, most have shared optimistic outlooks on recent sales trends.
As 2024 progresses, the key focus remains the consumer outlook, which has been unpredictable. On a positive note, unemployment rates remain near record lows, and wages continue to rise, contributing to a healthy increase in real disposable income, the analyst added.
Inflation has also eased, allowing the Federal Reserve to slow down its rate changes, said the analyst.
However, the analyst warned that the cost of living, including high rent and basic expenses, continues to pressure consumers.
Consumer confidence has remained lower than pre-pandemic levels, and many restaurants are working to improve traffic by offering greater value in response to inflation concerns.
Commodity inflation, excluding coffee, has shown signs of normalization and December 2024 saw a year-on-year increase of around 16%, mainly driven by coffee prices, asserted the analyst.
Restaurants are expecting mid-single-digit inflation in 2025, assuming current prices hold and the industry is hoping for a more stable cost environment that can support margins amidst uncertain sales projections, added the analyst.
The analyst expressed concern about labor costs and said while wage inflation has slowed from the peaks seen during 2021 and 2022, December 2024 saw a year-on-year wage increase of 10.3%.
In menu pricing, restaurants are easing the aggressive price hikes seen in recent years and overall, the industry is moving towards smaller price increases as commodity and labor inflation stabilizes, said the analyst.
The analyst upgraded both Shake Shack Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) and Dutch Bros Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BROS#NYSE">BROS</a>) to Overweight from Equal Weight.
The analyst downgraded Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) and Dine Brands Global Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIN#NYSE">DIN</a>) to Equal Weight from Overweight.
Photo via Shutterstock.

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Goldman Sachs raised the price target for SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEDG#NASDAQ">SEDG</a>) from $19 to $21. Goldman Sachs analyst Brian Lee maintained a Buy rating. SolarEdge shares closed at $16.29 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SEDG/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>UBS slashed The Wendy&#8217;s Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) price target from $20 to $17. UBS analyst Dennis Geiger maintained a Neutral rating. Wendy&#8217;s shares closed at $15.81 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>RBC Capital raised the price target for Carvana Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NASDAQ">CVNA</a>) from $270 to $280. RBC Capital analyst Brad Erickson upgraded the stock from Sector Perform to Outperform. Carvana shares closed at $188.85 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVNA/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Piper Sandler increased the price target for Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) from $245 to $285. Piper Sandler analyst Patrick Moley maintained a Neutral rating. Coinbase shares closed at $287.76 on Monday. See how other analysts view this stock.</li>
<li>Roth MKM boosted fuboTV Inc. (NYSE FUBO) price target from $2 to $4.75. Roth MKM analyst Darren Aftahi reiterated a Neutral rating. fuboTV shares settled at $5.06 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSFT/analyst-ratings">See how other </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FUBO/analyst-ratings">analysts </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSFT/analyst-ratings">view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Oppenheimer raised Shake Shack Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) price target from $145 to $155. Oppenheimer analyst Brian Bittner maintained an Outperform rating. Shake Shack shares closed at $132.06 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SHAK/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Wells Fargo raised Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) price target from $70 to $85. Wells Fargo analyst Michael Turrin upgraded the stock from Underweight to Equal-Weight. Zoom shares closed at $82.34 on Monday.  <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>MoffettNathanson cut the price target for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) from $202 to $188. MoffettNathanson analyst Craig Moffett downgraded the stock from Neutral to Sell. Apple shares settled at $245.00 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AAPL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Evercore ISI Group cut The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>) price target from $38 to $35. Evercore ISI Group analyst David Palmer downgraded the stock from Outperform to In-Line. Kraft Heinz shares closed at $30.05 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/KHC/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>UBS increased United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>) price target from $139 to $140. UBS analyst Thomas Wadewitz maintained a Buy rating. United Airlines shares closed at $98.57 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UAL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
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UBS analyst Dennis Geiger maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $20 to $17.

UBS Maintains Neutral on Wendy's, Lowers Price Target to $17

Offerings

Wendy's Co Files For Mixed Shelf Offering; Size Not Disclosed

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Consumer Discretionary sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TSLA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$450.00</td>
<td>$29.3K</td>
<td>19.9K</td>
<td>68.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMZN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$190.00</td>
<td>$30.1K</td>
<td>20.4K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NKE</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$72.50</td>
<td>$31.6K</td>
<td>4.3K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WEN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$86.7K</td>
<td>370</td>
<td>360</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$27.3K</td>
<td>217</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BKNG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$5045.00</td>
<td>$66.9K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MELI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$2000.00</td>
<td>$31.7K</td>
<td>96</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• For TSLA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 1 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 102 contract(s) at a $450.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.3K, with a price of $287.0 per contract. There were 19981 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 68190 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AMZN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 29 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 437 contract(s) at a $190.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $30.1K, with a price of $69.0 per contract. There were 20423 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3024 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NKE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 1 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 198 contract(s) at a $72.50 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 15 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.6K, with a price of $160.0 per contract. There were 4388 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2577 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding WEN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 29 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 360 contract(s) at a $19.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $86.7K, with a price of $241.0 per contract. There were 370 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 360 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HD (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 64 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 15 contract(s) at a $400.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.3K, with a price of $1825.0 per contract. There were 217 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 23 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For BKNG (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKNG#NASDAQ">BKNG</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 64 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 3 contract(s) at a $5045.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $66.9K, with a price of $22330.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 5 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MELI (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MELI#NASDAQ">MELI</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 29 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1 contract(s) at a $2000.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.7K, with a price of $31790.0 per contract. There were 96 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

AMZN

BKNG

MELI

TSLA

7 Consumer Discretionary Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

In the current session, Wendy's Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) is trading at $17.26, after a 0.17% drop. Over the past month, the stock fell by 4.58%, and in the past year, by 13.89%. With performance like this, long-term shareholders are more likely to start looking into the company's price-to-earnings ratio. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734098409_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>Evaluating Wendy's P/E in Comparison to Its Peers</h3>
The P/E ratio measures the current share price to the company's EPS. It is used by long-term investors to analyze the company's current performance against it's past earnings, historical data and aggregate market data for the industry or the indices, such as S&amp;P 500. A higher P/E indicates that investors expect the company to perform better in the future, and the stock is probably overvalued, but not necessarily. It also could indicate that investors are willing to pay a higher share price currently, because they expect the company to perform better in the upcoming quarters. This leads investors to also remain optimistic about rising dividends in the future. 
Compared to the aggregate P/E ratio of the 88.08 in the Hotels, Restaurants &amp; Leisure industry, Wendy's Inc. has a lower P/E ratio of 18.39. Shareholders might be inclined to think that the stock might perform worse than it's industry peers. It's also possible that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734098409_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

Intraday Update

Price Over Earnings Overview: Wendy's

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/20/mcdonalds-preparing-mcvalue-offering-for-2025.html#:~:text=McDonald's%20is%20working%20on%20a,%E2%80%9D%20option%2C%20CNBC%20has%20learned.

"McDonald's Plans 2025 'McValue' Initiative With $5 Meal Deal And 'Buy One Add One' Option" - CNBC

Wendy's's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NYSE">WEN</a>) short percent of float has fallen 12.93% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 10.83 million shares sold short, which is 7.34% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.4 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Wendy's Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732040123_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Wendy's has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Wendy's's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Wendy's's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.99%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

How Is The Market Feeling About Wendy's?

Ratings for Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) were provided by 13 analysts in the past three months, showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">11</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $20.21, a high estimate of $29.00, and a low estimate of $17.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 2.64% from the previous average price target of $19.69.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732017611_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination</h2>
A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive Wendy's is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Strelzik</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jake Bartlett</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jon Tower</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$18.75</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John Ivankoe</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ivan Feinseth</td>
<td>Tigress Financial</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$29.00</td>
<td>$29.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Wendy's. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Wendy's compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts set price targets as an estimate of a stock's future value. Comparing the current and prior price targets provides insight into how analysts' expectations have changed over time. This information can be valuable for investors seeking to understand consensus views on the stock's potential future performance.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of Wendy's's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Wendy's analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know Wendy's Better</h2>
The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.
<h3>Wendy's: Delving into Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization: With restricted market capitalization, the company is positioned below industry averages. This reflects a smaller scale relative to peers.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3 months period, Wendy's showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 2.94% as of 30 September, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Consumer Discretionary sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 8.86%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Wendy's's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 18.82%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 0.99%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: The company faces challenges in debt management with a debt-to-equity ratio higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 15.77, caution is advised due to increased financial risk.
<h2>How Are Analyst Ratings Determined?</h2>
Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Breaking: Wall Street's Next Big Mover
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Navigating 13 Analyst Ratings For Wendy's

Stephens &amp; Co. analyst Jim Salera reiterates Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Equal-Weight and maintains $19 price target.

Reiteration

Stephens & Co. Reiterates Equal-Weight on Wendy's, Maintains $19 Price Target

Management

Wendy's Appoints Ken Cook As CFO, Effective Dec. 2

Trian Fund Management, the hedge fund led by Nelson Peltz, disclosed substantial portfolio changes in its third-quarter 13F filing, making notable exits from major companies before the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/11/41772701/trumps-historic-return-7-ways-his-second-term-could-impact-the-us-economy">2024 U.S. presidential election</a>. 
What Happened: The fund sold off its entire stakes in GE HealthCare Technologies Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEHC#NASDAQ">GEHC</a>) (1.34 million shares), Walt Disney Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) (2.65 million shares) and Rentokil Initial plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTO#NYSE">RTO</a>) (470,000 shares). 
These exits suggest a cautious pivot from sectors like healthcare and entertainment, which face both market challenges and macroeconomic pressures.
Trian also reduced its stakes in several core holdings. The fund cut its position in Wendy&#8217;s Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) by 3%, reducing its shares from 31.5 million to 30.5 million, and scaled down its investment in asset manager Invesco Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IVZ#NYSE">IVZ</a>) by 15%, from 27.2 million to 23.1 million shares.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41988194/trump-plans-to-erase-ev-tax-credit-analyst-says-its-net-bullish-calls-sell-off-wrong-knee-jerk-reaction">Trump Plans To Erase EV Tax Credit: Tesla Analyst Says It&#8217;s &#8216;Net Bullish,&#8217; Calls Sell-Off &#8216;Wrong Knee-Jerk Reaction&#8217;</a>
The most substantial reduction came in Allstate Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALL#NYSE">ALL</a>), where Trian slashed its holdings by 69%, to 613,447 shares. These reductions reflect a strategic tightening in sectors affected by recent market volatility and economic uncertainty.
What Else: However, Trian strengthened its position in select companies, raising its stake in Solventum Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOLV#NYSE">SOLV</a>) from 5.36 million to 7.13 million shares, and held its positions steady in Janus Henderson Group PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JHG#NYSE">JHG</a>) and General Electric Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) as its top holdings.
This targeted increase aligns with Trian's confidence in sectors that may benefit from potential industrial and financial sector growth.
Soon after Trian's portfolio moves in the third quarter, Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election was confirmed, along with a Republican majority in the Senate.
Trump's policy agenda, which includes corporate tax cuts, increased tariffs and a potential rollback of green energy initiatives, is expected to significantly impact markets. 
Sectors like traditional manufacturing, defense and energy may see gains under Trump's administration, aligning with Trian's portfolio shifts, especially in industrial and financial investments.
Trian's recent moves highlight a forward-looking strategy as the hedge fund prepares for an evolving economic landscape shaped by Trump's return to the White House.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/11/41984278/jim-simons-renaissance-technologies-shifts-gears-microsoft-in-tesla-out-palantir-on-top">Jim Simons&#8217; Renaissance Technologies Shifts Gears: Microsoft In, Tesla Out, Palantir On Top</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Hedge Funds

Politics

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Janus Henderson Group plc Ordinary Shares

SOLV

Nelson Peltz's Trian Fund Management Reshaped Portfolio Ahead Of Presidential Election

FERG

Trian Fund Management 13F Shows Decreased Stake In Wendy's Co. By 3% From 31,507,868 To 30,512,595 Shares; Decreased Stake In Invesco By 15% From 27,223,734 To 23,173,442 Shares; Decreased Stake In Ferguson Plc New By 35% From 1,953,863 To 1,270,810 Shares; Decreased Stake In The Allstate Corp By 69% From 2,013,508 To 613,447 Shares

Wendy&#8217;s Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) is using artificial intelligence from data analytics firm Palantir Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) to manage its supply of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/10/41149776/wendys-is-ready-kids-and-adults-spongebob-squarepants-collaboration-includes-pineapple-frosty">burgers, fries and Frosty's.</a> 
The Details: Wendy's supply chain purchases are handled by an independent co-op group that first tested Palantir's technology last year amid tight profit margins and increasing pressure from inflation, according to a Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-11-07/wendy-s-wen-1-frosty-deal-made-easier-with-ai-from-palantir-pltr?sref=TBDibEcD">report.</a> The group is using Palantir's system to spot shortages and suggest solutions like placing an order from a supplier. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41781921/what-does-trumps-victory-mean-for-ev-giant-tesla-and-the-big-3-automakers">What Does Trump&#8217;s Victory Mean For EV Giant Tesla And The Big 3 Automakers?</a>
Pete Suerken, who leads the purchasing co-op, said the system's AI learns over time and can suggest a specific warehouse, after considering factors such as cost and the probability of the items arriving on time. The software <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40220301/whats-going-on-with-palantir-stock-today">can predict</a> when specific products will run out by analyzing current and historical sales figures.&nbsp;
Suerken praised Palantir's platform and said it was "so much better" than spreadsheets and other customary inventory management methods. He also said the return on investment is "significant." 
Wendy's recently asked the supply chain program to identify shortages restaurants could face over the following three weeks and then staff trained the model by showing how the shortages should be solved. Wendy's purchasing group plans to eventually allow the AI model to manage smaller inventory and ordering tasks autonomously and without human intervention. 
"Three or four years from now, if you're not doing this, you'll be at a distinct disadvantage," said Suerken. "This is something that, as an industry, will change the way we work."&nbsp;
WEN, PLTR Price Action: According to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, Wendy's shares are down 1.54% at $20.08 and Palantir shares are down 2.13% at $54.32 at the time of publication Thursday. 
Read Also:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41561955/dollar-general-aims-to-draw-customers-from-walmart-amazon-with-holiday-sales-events">Dollar General Aims To Draw Customers From Walmart, Amazon With Holiday Sales Events</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Restaurants

Tech

PLTR

Wendy's Uses Palantir AI Tech To Manage Burger, French Fry Inventories; Return On Investment Is 'Significant'

BMO Capital analyst Andrew Strelzik maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Market Perform and raises the price target from $19 to $20.

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