Cisco Systems Option Alert: Jun, 2026 $72.5 Calls at the Bid: 1300 vs 774 OI; Earnings 8/13 After Close [est] 

Cisco Systems Option Alert: Jun, 2026 $72.5 Calls at the Bid: 1300 @ $4.8 vs 774 OI; Earnings 8/13 After Close [est] Ref=$67.995

Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:CSCO) Bolsa

CISCO SYSTEMS INC

Cisco Systems

Cisco Systems is the largest provider of networking equipment in the world and one of the largest software companies in the world. Its largest businesses are selling networking hardware and software (where it has leading market shares) and cybersecurity software such as firewalls. It also has collaboration products, like its Webex suite, and observability tools. It primarily outsources its manufacturing to third parties and has a large sales and marketing staff—25,000 strong across 90 countries. Overall, Cisco employs 80,000 people and sells its products globally.

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Bank of America dropped its top 10 stock ideas for the third quarter of 2025, and the list includes some familiar names like Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) and Cisco Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>)—but also a couple of bearish calls investors <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/expert-ideas">might not see coming.</a>
While Wall Street debates rate cuts, BofA is sticking to one of the most hawkish forecasts out there: no Fed pivot until 2026. 
Next year, the central bank is expected to slash rates by 100 basis points, but until then inflation is likely to remain sticky in the second half of this year due to tariffs, limiting policy flexibility. 
This creates a trading environment where stock-specific catalysts matter more than macro tailwinds.
The updated list features eight Buy-rated stocks and two Underperform-rated names, all chosen for their potential to outperform—or underperform—due to major business or macro developments expected in the coming months.
The 8 Buys: From Aerospace to AI
1. Boeing Co. After a rough year of delays and scrutiny, BofA thinks Boeing is finally gaining altitude. "787 production is ramping, 737 deliveries are recovering, and positive changes to leadership including new CFO hire," said analyst Anthony Cassamassino. The firm sees upside as production hits 38 jets per month, and the new CFO—who came from Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) —adds stability. Bank of America set a price target of $260, which implies a 14% upside from Boeing's current price near $225.
2. Cisco Systems Inc. AI is fueling Cisco's momentum. "AI infrastructure orders YTD exceeded $1.3bn," already beating its full-year target, BofA wrote. With deep ties to Nvidia and a strong hold in enterprise switching, Cisco is positioned well as companies gear up for AI deployment. With shares trading around $68, BofA's $76 target suggests a 11% gain in the near term.
3. Datadog Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DDOG#NASDAQ">DDOG</a>) rounds out the AI-heavy picks. BofA likes Datadog's improving usage growth and its 8.5% AI-native revenue contribution, calling it one of the best-positioned software stocks for the next wave of generative AI adoption. BofA sees shares climbing to $150, offering about a 9% upside from the current level of $137.
4. Fair Isaac Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FICO#NYSE">FICO</a>). Despite some Washington noise around credit scoring, Cassamassino says, "FICO remains a best-in-class software compounder." With a $1 billion buyback plan and strong ACV growth, the firm gave a bold price target of $3,700, more than double the current price. 
5. KeyCorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KEY#NYSE">KEY</a>) is BofA's top value play in regional banking. A 5% yield, clean credit profile, and capital expenditure tailwinds give it a path higher. At a current price of $18.32, BofA's $20 target represents a 13% move higher.
6. Levi Strauss &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LEVI#NYSE">LEVI</a>) is on the list thanks to solid brand momentum and better-than-expected U.S. wholesale growth. "Execution remains strong across both denim and lifestyle apparel," BofA wrote. 
7. Medtronic PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDT#NYSE">MDT</a>) could be a breakout play if its new heart treatment technology gets greenlit. Cassamassino says approval of Pulse Field Ablation and renal denervation "could drive meaningful upside." BofA sees the stock climbing to $100, a 15% gain from its current price of $87.
8. Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>). BofA sees the company's upcoming corporate split, Superman reboot and $2 billion debt reduction as key catalysts. At just $11.73 now, the stock could rally 40% to $16, if BofA's view plays out.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bear Calls: Hims &amp; Hers and Conagra</h3>
Not every name on the list is a winner. BofA slapped Underperform ratings on two stocks it believes are overvalued or facing headwinds.
Hims &amp; Hers Health Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>) has soared on buzz around compounded weight-loss drugs, but BofA says patent risks are being ignored. "Litigation risk is underappreciated," the analysts wrote, and growth in the company's base business is slowing. Target: $28, well below the stock's recent level near $50.
Conagra Brands Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAG#NYSE">CAG</a>) is the other short idea. Cassamassino sees a soft year ahead due to "rising protein costs and elasticity in frozen." Add in margin pressure and dividend risk, and BofA is skeptical the stock holds up. 
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Cisco Reports A Stake Of 1.1M Shares Of Class A Common Stock In Coreweave  As Of June 30

During the last three months, 14 analysts shared their evaluations of Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), revealing diverse outlooks from bullish to bearish.
The table below offers a condensed view of their recent ratings, showcasing 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">5</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">2</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">0</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">1</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">2</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $70.0, a high estimate of $77.00, and a low estimate of $63.00. This upward trend is apparent, with the current average reflecting a 2.01% increase from the previous average price target of $68.62.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1752012040_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Analyzing Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Breakdown</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Cisco Systems by financial experts. The following summary presents 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>Brandon Nispel</td>
<td>Keybanc</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$77.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Niknam</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amit Daryanani</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$72.00</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Fish</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$64.00</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Atif Malik</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$71.00</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Meta Marshall</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tim Long</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$66.00</td>
<td>$61.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Samik Chatterjee</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Genovese</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$74.00</td>
<td>$63.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Rakers</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$72.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amit Daryanani</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Genovese</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$63.00</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Samik Chatterjee</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Atif Malik</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Cisco Systems. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Delving into assessments, analysts assign qualitative values, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings communicate expectations for the relative performance of Cisco Systems compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Delving into movements, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Cisco Systems's stock. This analysis reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Cisco Systems's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CSCO/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Cisco Systems analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Discovering Cisco Systems: A Closer Look</h2>
Cisco Systems is the largest provider of networking equipment in the world and one of the largest software companies in the world. Its largest businesses are selling networking hardware and software (where it has leading market shares) and cybersecurity software such as firewalls. It also has collaboration products, like its Webex suite, and observability tools. It primarily outsources its manufacturing to third parties and has a large sales and marketing staff—25,000 strong across 90 countries. Overall, Cisco employs 80,000 people and sells its products globally.
<h3>Cisco Systems's Economic Impact: An Analysis</h3>
Market Capitalization: Positioned above industry average, the company's market capitalization underscores its superiority in size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3M period, Cisco Systems showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 11.39% as of 30 April, 2025. 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 Information Technology sector.
Net Margin: Cisco Systems's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 17.61%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Cisco Systems's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 5.45% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Cisco Systems's ROA excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 2.07%. This signifies efficient management of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Cisco Systems's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.64, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a 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.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

What 14 Analyst Ratings Have To Say About Cisco Systems

Wolfe Research analyst George Notter initiates coverage on Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) with a Peer Perform rating.

Initiation

Wolfe Research Initiates Coverage On Cisco Systems with Peer Perform Rating

Artificial intelligence is poised to transform labor-heavy industries such as consulting, accounting, and legal services—sectors worth an estimated $5 trillion globally—by enabling software-like margins and reducing dependence on human labor, Mayfield Managing Director Navin Chaddha <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/29/why-ai-will-eat-mckinseys-lunch-but-not-today/">told</a> TechCrunch.
Chaddha said if 80% of the work is done by AI, companies can achieve gross margins of 80% to 90%. He added that Mayfield has earmarked $100 million from its latest fund specifically for companies building AI teammates.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Target Small Clients, Not Big Firms</h2>
Chaddha told TechCrunch that startups should target underserved small and midsize businesses rather than attempt to compete directly with consulting giants like Accenture (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACN#NYSE">ACN</a>), McKinsey, or Tata Consultancy Services. He said 30 million small businesses in the U.S. and 100 million globally often lack access to traditional knowledge workers.
Instead of billing hourly or monthly, Chaddha said AI-first companies could use event-based pricing—charging per service delivered, such as a completed project or triggered event.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gruve Scales With Pay-for-Performance Model</h2>
Chaddha said Mayfield led the $20 million Series A round for Gruve, a security-focused consulting startup. According to TechCrunch, Gruve acquired a $5 million managed services business and scaled it to $15 million in revenue within six months.
The company uses outcome-based pricing, charging only when a security event occurs, and has reportedly achieved gross margins of around 80%.
Chaddha highlighted that Gruve's approach resonated with clients like Cisco Systems&nbsp; (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), who prefer paying only when results are delivered. "They say, ‘Hey, I'm not getting hacked. Why am I paying for all these security people?"
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Innovator's Dilemma in Big Firms</h2>
Chaddha told TechCrunch that legacy firms like McKinsey and Accenture face an innovator's dilemma: shifting from retainers and hourly billing to AI-driven, outcome-based pricing risks disrupting their predictable revenue streams.&nbsp;
He said this hesitation gives AI-first startups a critical window to scale before incumbents adapt.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The AI Teammate Distinction</h2>
Chaddha differentiated between AI tools and AI teammates. He defined AI teammates as systems that &#8220;collaborate with a human on shared goals and get to better outcomes," according to TechCrunch.&nbsp;
"The aim is not to replace," Chaddha said. "The aim is to team up and collaborate together."&nbsp;
These may be built using large language models or agentic frameworks and serve roles across HR, sales, and engineering.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">VC Strategy: Mental Discipline Counts</h2>
Chaddha told TechCrunch that Mayfield allocated $100 million last fall for AI teammate startups. He advised entrepreneurs to avoid fear of missing out, stay disciplined, and craft a clear long-term thesis.
"Have your own North Star. Have discipline and have no FOMO, because FOMO is for sheep," he said. Chaddha cautioned that while many will make money, about 80% of startups—and even VCs—may falter without a strong strategy.
Chaddha emphasized that investing in AI demands experience and restraint. "It's not a science; it's an art," he said. "The more you practice this, the better you get."
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Image: Shutterstock

Forget Big Tech: This VC Is Betting $100M on AI That Serves 30M Neglected Small Businesses

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with CSCO, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 13 options trades for Cisco Systems.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 53% bullish and 38%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $741,150, and 12, calls, for a total amount of $645,151.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $45.0 to $72.5 for Cisco Systems over the recent three months. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Cisco Systems stands at 5152.5, with a total volume reaching 15,494.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Cisco Systems, situated within the strike price corridor from $45.0 to $72.5, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Cisco Systems Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1751572861_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$2.44</td>
<td>$2.41</td>
<td>$2.43</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$741.1K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$1.13</td>
<td>$1.07</td>
<td>$1.07</td>
<td>$69.00</td>
<td>$100.7K</td>
<td>5.5K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$9.3</td>
<td>$9.05</td>
<td>$9.3</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$89.2K</td>
<td>616</td>
<td>133</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$1.75</td>
<td>$1.74</td>
<td>$1.74</td>
<td>$72.50</td>
<td>$87.0K</td>
<td>9.3K</td>
<td>4.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$1.09</td>
<td>$0.92</td>
<td>$1.09</td>
<td>$72.50</td>
<td>$61.4K</td>
<td>7.1K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Cisco Systems</h3>
Cisco Systems is the largest provider of networking equipment in the world and one of the largest software companies in the world. Its largest businesses are selling networking hardware and software (where it has leading market shares) and cybersecurity software such as firewalls. It also has collaboration products, like its Webex suite, and observability tools. It primarily outsources its manufacturing to third parties and has a large sales and marketing staff—25,000 strong across 90 countries. Overall, Cisco employs 80,000 people and sells its products globally.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Cisco Systems, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Cisco Systems</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 17,927,852, with CSCO's price up by 1.34%, positioned at $69.51.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 41 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Cisco Systems</h3>
A total of 2 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $75.0.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
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;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Keybanc has revised its rating downward to Overweight, adjusting the price target to $77. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Deutsche Bank upgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $73. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Cisco Systems, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

Check Out What Whales Are Doing With CSCO

I just wrapped up a deep dive into what I'm calling the "real report card" for 2025 so far…and the results might surprise you.
Some tech names are ripping, while others are getting absolutely crushed. I'm talking over 100% rebounds on stocks like Coinbase (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) and nearly 50% haircuts on household names like Lululemon (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LULU#NASDAQ">LULU</a>).
So today, I want to break down exactly what's leading and what&#8217;s lagging as we enter the second half of the year, how I'm trading both sides of the tape using simple, strategic spreads and why I think the biggest opportunities right now lie in playing both ends of the market.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">60% Off Benzinga Pro &#8211; July 4th Week Only</h2>
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Let&#8217;s start with what&#8217;s working.
I ran my latest scans across the top 425 most liquid optionable stocks (out of tens of thousands) to see who is sitting at their year-to-date highs and who is sitting at the lows.
The winners? They're almost all in tech and exchanges.
Micron (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>), Cisco (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), Robinhood (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOD#NASDAQ">HOOD</a>), Paramount (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARA#NASDAQ">PARA</a>) and Coinbase are all trading at or near their 25-week highs, and they're telling a clear story about where strength is showing up in this market.
We've got semiconductors, legacy tech, disruptive fintech, crypto infrastructure and streaming media all making the list.
That's not random.
MU and CSCO represent two ends of the tech spectrum—one a chipmaker riding the AI and memory boom, the other a networking heavyweight benefiting from increased infrastructure spend. Both are showing signs of quiet accumulation.
HOOD and COIN are riding the same tailwind: a resurgence in retail interest and the rebound in crypto. COIN, in particular, has been a standout. It's already doubled since bottoming out in early April, making it one of the biggest comeback stories in the market right now. That kind of V-shaped move tells me institutional money is quietly stepping back in.
And then there's Paramount. With ongoing rumors and a push toward streaming consolidation, PARA has become a speculative favorite in certain corners of the market.
Now, when you zoom out and look at this group as a whole, there's a clear theme: Capital is flowing back into high-leverage, high-beta names—but it's doing so selectively. This isn't a broad-based rally. It's precise. And it's rotating into names with clear catalysts, strong relative strength and just enough volatility to make the options worth trading.
That's exactly the type of setup I look for.
It's the kind of strength that doesn't happen by accident, the kind that has real momentum behind the crypto comeback. And COIN is acting as a high-beta proxy for Bitcoin itself.
So, let's talk strategy.
When I pulled this data, COIN was trading around $309. The August 310 calls were going for about $31, roughly 10% of the stock price. That&#8217;s a bit rich for a single-leg call.
So, how do we lower cost and risk?
By structuring a call spread. For example, buying the 310 and selling the 320 call could be done for around $5. That cuts your risk nearly in half and sets up a clean 1:1 reward-to-risk ratio if COIN climbs another 10 points. And if you prefer something more aggressive? Using the 330 and 340 calls in this spread instead could cost you as little as $3 and up to $7 in potential upside (although you&#8217;d need a bigger move to get there).
That's how we use the market's pricing inefficiencies to our advantage. But what about the losers?
Tilray (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLRY#NASDAQ">TLRY</a>), JD.com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>), Lululemon and Luminar (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LAZR#NASDAQ">LAZR</a>) are sitting at the bottom of the pile, each trading at or near their 25-week lows. And while names like Tilray are already so beaten down that further downside may be limited, LULU caught my eye.
This is still an expensive stock, with real room to fall.
After a rough series of earnings, LULU has slipped from over $420 earlier this year to around $227. Even with better-than-expected numbers, the stock has struggled to recover, and that's not a good sign.
So, how do we position ourselves for further weakness?
The 225 puts are going for about $8. But opening a 225/220 put spread would only cost a little over $2. That caps risk, improves breakeven, and still leaves the door open for a potential double.
We'll soon take a deeper dive into the best trading strategies of the year. But first, I wanted to give you an example of the power in blocking out the noise of the 24/7 news cycle – and understanding what the market is really doing beneath the surface.
Whether it's a tech breakout like Coinbase or a weak rebound like Lululemon, the opportunities are there—you just need to know where to look and how to trade them smartly.
Editorial content from our expert contributors is intended to be information for the general public and not individualized investment advice. Editors/contributors are presenting their individual opinions and strategies, which are neither expressly nor impliedly approved or endorsed by Benzinga.
Photo: Shutterstock

Opinion

COIN

HOOD

LAZR

LULU

PARA

TLRY

How I'm Trading 2025's Biggest Winners And Losers

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 will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<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>NVDA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/03/25</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$140.1K</td>
<td>63.1K</td>
<td>190.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/03/25</td>
<td>$207.50</td>
<td>$44.8K</td>
<td>22.8K</td>
<td>104.9K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/03/25</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$25.7K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
<td>14.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/03/25</td>
<td>$410.00</td>
<td>$98.7K</td>
<td>12.8K</td>
<td>12.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/11/25</td>
<td>$162.50</td>
<td>$195.0K</td>
<td>455</td>
<td>4.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BBAI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$8.00</td>
<td>$120.2K</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>INTC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$275.2K</td>
<td>20.1K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$86.2K</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$476.0K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td>562</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SOUN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/03/25</td>
<td>$9.50</td>
<td>$33.2K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>470</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For NVDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 2 day(s) on July 3, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1000 contract(s) at a $155.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $140.1K, with a price of $140.0 per contract. There were 63157 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 190687 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AAPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 2 day(s) on July 3, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $207.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 6 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $44.8K, with a price of $224.0 per contract. There were 22865 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 104991 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding PLTR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on July 3, 2025. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $130.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 8 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.7K, with a price of $257.0 per contract. There were 2792 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 14750 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MSTR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on July 3, 2025. Parties traded 2759 contract(s) at a $410.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 125 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $98.7K, with a price of $36.0 per contract. There were 12819 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 12441 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For QCOM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 10 day(s) on July 11, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1000 contract(s) at a $162.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $195.0K, with a price of $195.0 per contract. There were 455 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4330 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For BBAI (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBAI#NYSE">BBAI</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 199 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 650 contract(s) at a $8.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $120.2K, with a price of $185.0 per contract. There were 3934 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2763 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For INTC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 171 day(s) on December 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 2500 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 31 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $275.2K, with a price of $110.0 per contract. There were 20126 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2536 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MSFT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 199 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 8 contract(s) at a $400.00 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 $86.2K, with a price of $10786.0 per contract. There were 3382 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1716 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding CSCO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 563 day(s) on January 15, 2027. Parties traded 560 contract(s) at a $70.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 19 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $476.0K, with a price of $850.0 per contract. There were 1464 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 562 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For SOUN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOUN#NASDAQ">SOUN</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 2 day(s) on July 3, 2025. This event was a transfer of 400 contract(s) at a $9.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.2K, with a price of $83.0 per contract. There were 1150 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 470 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.

BBAI

INTC

MSTR

PLTR

QCOM

SOUN

10 Information Technology Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

The first half of 2025 has come to a close and 21 of the 30 stocks that make up the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/dow-jones-industrial-average">Dow Jones Industrial Average Index</a> are positive year-to-date.
Despite the impressive number of stocks with a positive performance in the first six months, the index was up around 4% with several of the components posting large declines.
2025 Performance: Through the first six months of the year, two <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/magnificent-seven">Magnificent Seven stocks </a>are among the 10 best in the Dow Jones Industrial Average and two are among the 10 worst in the index based on performance.
Here's a look at the 10 best Dow Jones Industrial Average stocks in the first half:
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>International Business Machines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>): +34.1%</li>
<li>Goldman Sachs (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>): +23.6%</li>
<li>JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>): +20.9%</li>
<li>Boeing Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>): +18.4%</li>
<li>Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>): +18.0%</li>
<li>3M Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MMM#NYSE">MMM</a>): +17.9%</li>
<li>NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>): +17.6%</li>
<li>Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>): +17.2%</li>
<li>Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KO#NYSE">KO</a>): +13.6%</li>
<li>Visa Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>): +12.3%</li>
</ol>
Here are the 10 worst performing Dow Jones Industrial Average stocks in the first half:
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>): -38.3%</li>
<li>Merck &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>): -20.4%</li>
<li>Salesforce.com Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRM#NYSE">CRM</a>): -18.4</li>
<li>Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>): -18.1%</li>
<li>Nike Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>): -6.1%</li>
<li>Home Depot Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>): -5.7%</li>
<li>Procter &amp; Gamble Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PG#NYSE">PG</a>): -5.0%</li>
<li>Chevron Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>): -1.1%</li>
<li>Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>): Flat</li>
<li>McDonald's Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NASDAQ">MCD</a>): +0.8%</li>
</ol>
Overall the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>), which tracks the index, was up around 4% in the first half of 2025. This was a lower gain than the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>), which tracks the S&amp;P 500, which had a 5.7% gain in the first half.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45932660/exclusive-sp-500-new-all-time-highs-again-2025">EXCLUSIVE: S&amp;P 500 To Hit New All-Time Highs Again In 2025? Majority Say Yes, 27% Predict This Range</a>
Why It's Important: Nvidia was one of the new Dow Jones components <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/24/12/42726598/dow-jones-2024-scoreboard-top-5-winners-losers-and-how-amazon-nvidia-could-reshape-2025">added in 2024</a> and the stock is one of the top performers in the first half of 2025. The stock replaced Intel, which was a top decliner in recent years.
The index also got rid of Walgreens, which was another poor performer in recent years. Its replacement Amazon was flat for the first half of 2025.
The new index makeup is showing strong signs of positive returns.
With 21 of the components positive year-to-date and one flat, this could mark one of the best years by the number of gainers in recent history.
In 2024, 18 of the 30 stocks were up for the full year. In 2023, 19 of the stocks in the index were up.
Perhaps most surprising is that two of the Magnificent Seven stocks rank among the worst performers in the first half of 2025, despite being part of the four Mag 7 members included in the Dow Jones Industrial Average.
Apple was the fourth-worst performer in the index for the first half, falling 18.1%. That marks a sharp reversal from its standout status as the only Dow Jones stock to rank among the top gainers in both 2023 and 2024.
Amazon ranked ninth with a flat return, as only eight of the components were down. 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average remains one of the most closely watched stock market indexes, serving as a gauge of overall market health. With only 30 stocks and a weighting based on stock price, rather than market capitalization, the index is less frequently used by some analysts and market experts than the broader S&amp;P 500 Index.
Read Next: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46198021/nvidia-vs-microsoft-vs-apple-which-stock-reaches-4-trillion-first">Nvidia Vs. Microsoft Vs. Apple: Which Stock Reaches $4 Trillion First?</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Dow Jones 2025 First Half Scoreboard: Top 10 Winners, Losers — Where Do Nvidia, Apple Stock Rank?

Zhipu AI, founded in 2019, is one of China's so‑called "AI tigers" and a rising player in large language models aimed at reducing dependence on U.S. platforms,<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/26/openai-flags-beijing-backed-zhipu-ai-as-a-top-rival.html"> CNBC</a> reports.
According to an<a href="https://openaiglobalaffairs.substack.com/p/chinese-progress-at-the-front"> OpenAI</a> blog post, the startup&#8217;s name was placed on the U.S. Commerce Department's Entity List in January due to its support for Chinese military AI modernization. Despite that, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45790909/was-jeff-bezos-backed-whylabs-secretly-acquired-by-apple-after-10m-series-a-to-compete-in-ai-arms-race-against-google-openai-and-microsoft">OpenAI</a> reports Zhipu AI is making "notable progress" as it offers infrastructure solutions directly to governments worldwide.
Don't Miss:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Invest early in CancerVax's breakthrough tech aiming to disrupt a $231B market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-company-may-have-found-a-way-to-treat-cancer-by-tricking-the-bodys-immune-system-and-early-studies-show-some-promise-find-out-how-you-can-invest-in-the-future-of-cancer-treatment">Back a bold new approach to cancer treatment with high-growth potential.</a></li>
<li>Tired of Grid Failures and Charging Deserts? This Startup Has a Solar Fix and $25M+ in Sales — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/meet-the-company-seeking-to-give-americans-energy-independence-and-learn-how-you-can-become-an-early-investor">Now Raising at $3/Share</a></li>
</ul>
Zhipu AI is building sovereign large language model systems, private AI‑in‑a‑box hardware in collaboration with Huawei, and governance frameworks across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The startup has launched joint innovation centers in Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Kenya. According to OpenAI, Chinese media describe this strategy as "China's answer to OpenAI for countries."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">State‑Backed Funding Fuels Zhipu AI&#8217;s Expansion</h2>
OpenAI says that Zhipu AI benefits from over $1.4 billion in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/05/45664141/trump-administration-to-revoke-visas-of-chinese-students-tied-to-ccp-or-critical-fields-tightens-screening">Chinese Communist Party</a> and local government investment while courting Gulf capital. The startup also received $400 million from Saudi Arabia's Prosperity7 Aramco fund, supplementing backing from Alibaba (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>), Tencent, Xiaomi, and others.
According to<a href="https://www.ncsti.gov.cn/kjdt/kjrd/rgzn_kjrd/202506/t20250618_208030.html"> Beijing Daily</a>, Zhipu AI Chair Liu Debing said during the Vitality China Research Tour media event on June 17 that the company's goal is to push forward China's large model technology and contribute Chinese AI power to the world.
"Our vision is to make machines think like humans," Debing said. "As we push forward China's large model technology, we also aim to contribute Chinese AI power to the world."
Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
According to OpenAI, Zhipu AI leadership frequently engages with Chinese Communist Party officials, including Premier Li Qiang, and plays an active role in setting China's national AI technical standards. These government ties support its goal of embedding Chinese AI systems into emerging markets before Western alternatives can gain ground.
OpenAI described Zhipu AI's aim as locking Chinese systems and standards into emerging markets while promoting a "responsible, transparent and audit‑ready" alternative to Western AI. OpenAI emphasized that the Chinese Communist Party's push to lead the world in AI by 2030 is a multi-front effort with an "actual, physical front line."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OpenAI Steps Up U.S. AI Diplomacy</h2>
OpenAI launched OpenAI for Countries and secured a $200 million contract with the U.S. Department of Defense in June to deliver AI prototypes for national security and enterprise use, CNBC reports. The company also laid the groundwork for its Stargate data campus in Abu Dhabi with Oracle (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Cisco (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), and MGX, backed by $500 billion in private investment. The campus is expected to come online in 2026.
See Also: Named a TIME Best Invention and Backed by 5,000+ Users, Kara's Air-to-Water Pod Cuts Plastic and Costs — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/americans-spend-1000-per-year-on-plastic-water-bottles-kara-pod-gives-you-clean-drinking-water-by-pulling-moisture-from-the-air">And You Can Invest At Just $6.37/Share</a>
The rivalry between OpenAI and Zhipu AI represents more than technology competition, reflecting a broader U.S.‑China struggle for digital influence and economic dominance. OpenAI highlighted Zhipu AI's ties to China's military modernization and its global expansion efforts in the blog post, raising concerns about potential strategic and security implications.
OpenAI frames its approach as "cautious optimism," focusing on real‑world benefits while rigorously testing for misuse. The company emphasizes real-world benefits in areas like health, science, and productivity while remaining alert to risks and ethical misuse.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Lies Ahead for Global AI Leadership</h2>
According to CNBC, Zhipu AI is reportedly eyeing an initial public offering after reaching a 20 billion yuan ($2.78 billion) valuation in local markets. Its state partnerships and overseas initiatives position it as a major competitor in the global AI race.
As countries consider AI solutions from different geopolitical spheres, questions around governance models, ethical standards, and transparency remain central to future adoption strategies.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Image: Shutterstock

BABA

ORCL

On The 'Front Line' Of China's AI Ambitions: OpenAI Flags Zhipu AI As Rising Rival Backed By $1.4B State Funding

The S&amp;P 500 hit record highs on Friday as prominent investment manager Dan Niles advised investors to temporarily ignore traditional valuation metrics while positioning for continued market gains through the second-quarter earnings season.
What Happened: Niles, founder of Niles Investment Management, reversed his earlier bearish stance after the index rallied 27% from April lows following President Donald Trump&#8216;s 90-day tariff reprieve announcement. The benchmark index surpassed its previous February closing high, rebounding from a 21% selloff that began in early April amid tariff fears and recession concerns.
&#8220;In my 35 years on Wall Street I have NEVER said that before,&#8221; Niles wrote on X, clarifying his CNBC interview comments about forgetting valuations. He emphasized that this tactical approach reflects how he believes investors will behave until Thanksgiving, not his personal investment philosophy.
The veteran money manager cited seven factors driving continued market strength: U.S. dollar weakness helping foreign sales that comprise 40% of S&amp;P 500 revenues, demand pull-forward ahead of potential tariffs, reduced geopolitical tensions, anticipated Federal Reserve rate cuts, institutional performance chasing, and retail fear-of-missing-out with $7 trillion parked in money market funds.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Mid Year Update I came into the year negative which is why cash in money market funds that yielded over 4% was my lead Top 5 Pick. Poor Q4:2024 earnings results during which six of the seven Magnificent 7 had forward revenue forecasts go down and volatility caused by tariffs…
&mdash; Dan Niles (@DanielTNiles) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielTNiles/status/1939481563147772037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/46161262/chinas-ant-group-boosts-rd-spending-to-record-3-26-billion-in-2024-amid-ai-push">China&#8217;s Ant Group Boosts R&amp;D Spending To Record $3.26 Billion In 2024 Amid AI Push</a>
Why It Matters: Niles maintains positions in Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), and Cisco Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>). He highlighted Microsoft&#8217;s re-accelerating Azure growth after three quarterly disappointments and Nvidia&#8217;s demand strength following a $5.5 billion writeoff. Cisco trades at 17x forward earnings versus 24x for the S&amp;P 500, despite its emerging AI networking capabilities.
However, Niles warned of potential 10-20% correction risks approaching Thanksgiving due to holiday demand disappointment from the first-half demand pull-forward. He noted the S&amp;P 500&#8217;s 24x forward price to earnings ratio exceeds historical averages during 2.4-3.0% inflation periods.
The index closed Friday at 6,190, with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/46124290/sp-500-hits-record-highs-and-history-says-the-best-is-yet-to-come">technical analysts noting</a> an approaching &#8220;golden cross&#8221; signal when the 50-day moving average crosses above the 200-day average—historically preceding strong rallies 73% of the time since World War II.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46161059/apple-has-the-potential-to-crush-metas-ray-ban-smart-glasses-says-ming-chi-kuo-but-the-tech-giant-has-been-surprisingly-slow" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Has the Potential To Crush Meta's Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, Says Ming-Chi Kuo, But The Tech Giant Has Been ‘Surprisingly Slow'</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

As S&P 500 Charges Off April Lows, Dan Niles Says Investors Will 'Forget About Valuations'—Holds Microsoft, Nvidia, Cisco But Sees Holiday Demand Crash Risk

For investors who prefer their tech plays with a dash of adrenaline, Direxion just served up four new ways to catch the waves. The ETF provider launched four new single-stock leveraged and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">inverse funds</a> on Wednesday, focused on Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) and Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>). But these are no ordinary ETFs, they&#8217;re designed for quick trades, quick brains, and even quicker appetites for risk.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/25/06/46102575/calamos-unveils-callable-note-etf-for-predictable-payouts">Calamos Unveils Callable-Note ETF For Predictable Payouts</a>
Here&#8217;s the new group:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Direxion Daily CSCO Bull 2X ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCL#NASDAQ">CSCL</a>): Positive 200% bet on Cisco&#8217;s daily price performance.</li>
<li>Direxion Daily CSCO Bear 1X ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCS#NASDAQ">CSCS</a>): Bearish 100% daily exposure in Cisco.</li>
<li>Direxion Daily QCOM Bull 2X ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCMU#NASDAQ">QCMU</a>): 2x daily bullish bet on Qualcomm.</li>
<li>Direxion Daily QCOM Bear 1X ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCMD#NASDAQ">QCMD</a>): 1x daily bearish exposure to Qualcomm.</li>
</ul>
Each of the ETFs carries an expense ratio of 0.97%.
With these, investors can go long or short on two giants of the digital infrastructure space, enterprises thriving on growth in AI, 5G, and cloud networking.
Douglas Yones, CEO of Direxion, said that these ETFs will &#8220;empower traders to capitalize on short-term movements in these pivotal technology stocks, reflecting our commitment to providing targeted tools for dynamic market engagement.&#8221; 
But a word of caution: single-stock leveraged ETFs are the fiscal version of a high-speed chase. There&#8217;s no diversification buffer, and the daily reset assures compounding will work for or against you.
Even within leveraged products, such ETFs are niche instruments for savvy market players who keep positions under close scrutiny and appreciate the mathematics (and mayhem) of volatility.
Read Next: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/25/06/46078207/blackrock-launch-ishares-texn-etf-texas-based-stocks">BlackRock Debuts iShares TEXN ETF For Retail Investors Eyeing Texas-Based Stocks</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

New ETFs

ETFs

CSCL

CSCS

QCMD

QCMU

Direxion's New ETFs Let Traders Supercharge Bets On Cisco And Qualcomm, With A Catch

Keybanc analyst Brandon Nispel initiates coverage on Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) with a Overweight rating and announces Price Target of $77.

Price Target

Keybanc Initiates Coverage On Cisco Systems with Overweight Rating, Announces Price Target of $77

When your cell phone suddenly freezes on your way to grab your morning coffee, it may not be just a technical glitch, but the warning sign of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cyber-security">cyber thievery of the new age</a>. 
The CrowdStrike 2025 Global Threat Report found that: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Vishing (short for &#8220;voice phishing&#8221;) attacks have increased 442%</li>
<li>Close to 80% of intrusions no longer sneak in with any malware, and </li>
<li>China-associated hackers are upping their game with a 150% jump in activity.</li>
</ul>
For individual investors who want to ride this cyber mayhem, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">cybersecurity ETFs</a> provide a useful and effective means to tap into the digital defense boom.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/25/06/46080190/quantum-volatility-tradrs-new-etfs-qubx-rgtu-are-built-for-it-says-matt-markiewicz">Quantum Volatility? Tradr&#8217;s New ETFs QUBX, RGTU Are Built for It, Says Matt Markiewicz</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why Cybersecurity, Why Now?</h3>
Hackers are getting quicker and cleverer, cracking networks in 51 seconds or less, frequently without malware. Instead, they use AI-powered phishing emails, take advantage of misconfigured clouds, and steal passwords. It&#8217;s digital jiu-jitsu, and businesses are scrambling to protect themselves.
This explosion of advanced attacks has translated into a multi-billion-dollar cybersecurity boom, and investors are sitting up and taking notice. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The ETFs That Let You Invest In Digital Defense</h3>
If selecting individual <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cybersecurity">cybersecurity stocks</a> seems intimidating, these ETFs provide a diversified method to ride the wave:
First Trust Nasdaq Cybersecurity ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CIBR#NASDAQ">CIBR</a>)
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Assets under management: ~$10 billion</li>
<li>Top holdings: Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), Cisco (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), Fortinet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTNT#NASDAQ">FTNT</a>), CrowdStrike (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>)</li>
<li>Expense ratio: 0.59%</li>
<li>CIBR is the biggest and most liquid cybersecurity ETF on the market. It&#8217;s based on the Nasdaq CTA Cybersecurity Index and provides exposure to pure-play cyber companies as well as larger tech giants with large, healthy security segments. It&#8217;s an excellent choice for investors looking for liquidity and a diversified, weighted basket of companies that are protecting the frontlines.</li>
</ul>
Amplify Cybersecurity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HACK#NYSE">HACK</a>)
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Assets under management: ~$2.27 billion</li>
<li>Top holdings: Broadcom (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), Palo Alto Networks, Cisco, Crowdstrike, Fortinet, Cloudflare&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NET#NYSE">NET</a>)</li>
<li>Expense ratio: 0.60%</li>
<li>HACK led the way in the space and has a slightly different methodology, it follows the ISE Cyber Security Select Index focused on revenue exposure to cybersecurity. That is to say, it frequently includes boutique players in consulting, military-grade defense, and forensic analysis. If you want more &#8220;boots-on-the-ground&#8221; exposure, HACK delivers that tactical taste.</li>
</ul>
Global X Cybersecurity ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BUG#NASDAQ">BUG</a>)
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Assets under management: ~$1.14 billion</li>
<li>Leading holdings: CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, Zscaler (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZS#NASDAQ">ZS</a>), Fortinet, Okta (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OKTA#NASDAQ">OKTA</a>)</li>
<li>Expense ratio: 0.51%</li>
<li>BUG emphasizes high-growth, next-generation players and plays more towards firms focused on endpoint security, cloud-native defenses, and AI-driven threat detection. It&#8217;s slightly more volatile, but for those with a higher-risk appetite, BUG connects to the more innovative edge of the space.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why It&#8217;s Not Too Late</h2>
While these ETFs have become increasingly popular, analysts suggest the cybersecurity trade isn&#8217;t yet crowded. Why? Because the threats are expanding at record pace. 
A June <a href="https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/cyber-security-market-101165">report </a>by Fortune Business Insights projects the global cybersecurity market size to grow from an estimated $193.73 billion in 2024 to $562.72 billion by 2032, realizing a CAGR of 14.3% during the period.
With data emerging as the most valuable currency and threats more sophisticated, cybersecurity is becoming one of the most defensive trades in your portfolio.
Cyber ETFs enable individual investors to ride this megatrend without the hassle of stock-picking. If you&#8217;re a conservative investor seeking stability or a tech-loving trader seeking growth, chances are there&#8217;s a cybersecurity ETF out there that&#8217;s your style.
Read Next: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/25/06/46078207/blackrock-launch-ishares-texn-etf-texas-based-stocks">BlackRock Debuts iShares TEXN ETF For Retail Investors Eyeing Texas-Based Stocks</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

AVGO

CIBR

CRWD

FTNT

HACK

OKTA

PANW

3 Cybersecurity ETFs To Gain Ground As Threats Go Malware-Free, China Gets Bolder

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 will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Information Technology 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>AAPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/27/25</td>
<td>$205.00</td>
<td>$27.1K</td>
<td>38.4K</td>
<td>61.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRCL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/27/25</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$46.8K</td>
<td>22.7K</td>
<td>36.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/27/25</td>
<td>$137.00</td>
<td>$46.1K</td>
<td>2.9K</td>
<td>31.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AVGO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/03/25</td>
<td>$270.00</td>
<td>$41.3K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td>14.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/27/25</td>
<td>$485.00</td>
<td>$35.1K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td>8.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSTR</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/27/25</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$27.9K</td>
<td>4.2K</td>
<td>4.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$198.7K</td>
<td>27.1K</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVDA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/17/27</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$748.0K</td>
<td>4.0K</td>
<td>2.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$52.8K</td>
<td>47</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IBM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/03/25</td>
<td>$297.50</td>
<td>$159.5K</td>
<td>59</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding AAPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on June 27, 2025. Parties traded 331 contract(s) at a $205.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 17 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.1K, with a price of $82.0 per contract. There were 38450 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 61020 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding CRCL (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRCL#NYSE">CRCL</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on June 27, 2025. Parties traded 71 contract(s) at a $200.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 11 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $46.8K, with a price of $660.0 per contract. There were 22766 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 36449 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AMD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 3 day(s) on June 27, 2025. This event was a transfer of 179 contract(s) at a $137.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 29 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $46.1K, with a price of $258.0 per contract. There were 2993 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 31263 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AVGO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 9 day(s) on July 3, 2025. Parties traded 180 contract(s) at a $270.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.3K, with a price of $230.0 per contract. There were 1489 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 14859 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MSFT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 3 day(s) on June 27, 2025. This event was a transfer of 300 contract(s) at a $485.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 24 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $35.1K, with a price of $117.0 per contract. There were 1580 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 8653 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MSTR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 3 day(s) on June 27, 2025. This event was a transfer of 116 contract(s) at a $370.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 10 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.9K, with a price of $241.0 per contract. There were 4239 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4548 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding CSCO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 87 day(s) on September 19, 2025. Parties traded 984 contract(s) at a $70.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $198.7K, with a price of $202.0 per contract. There were 27109 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3131 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 906 day(s) on December 17, 2027. This event was a transfer of 113 contract(s) at a $105.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 17 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $748.0K, with a price of $6620.0 per contract. There were 4072 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2896 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding NN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NN#NASDAQ">NN</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 24 day(s) on July 18, 2025. Parties traded 1505 contract(s) at a $13.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 35 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $52.8K, with a price of $35.0 per contract. There were 47 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2716 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding IBM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 9 day(s) on July 3, 2025. Parties traded 684 contract(s) at a $297.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $159.5K, with a price of $235.0 per contract. There were 59 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1109 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 about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

CRCL

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 will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Information Technology 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>NVDA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$144.00</td>
<td>$25.1K</td>
<td>20.6K</td>
<td>33.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$127.00</td>
<td>$32.0K</td>
<td>6.5K</td>
<td>15.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$475.00</td>
<td>$32.1K</td>
<td>6.8K</td>
<td>5.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AVGO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$250.00</td>
<td>$28.0K</td>
<td>4.8K</td>
<td>4.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WOLF</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$2.00</td>
<td>$156.8K</td>
<td>7.5K</td>
<td>3.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TER</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$306.1K</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVTS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$8.00</td>
<td>$47.5K</td>
<td>2.6K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ORCL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/27/25</td>
<td>$210.00</td>
<td>$46.6K</td>
<td>818</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$57.50</td>
<td>$33.1K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>APPS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$36.1K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
<td>987</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding NVDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 327 contract(s) at a $144.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 9 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.1K, with a price of $77.0 per contract. There were 20678 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 33879 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AMD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 179 contract(s) at a $127.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 16 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.0K, with a price of $179.0 per contract. There were 6530 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 15868 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MSFT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 2 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 242 contract(s) at a $475.00 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 $32.1K, with a price of $131.0 per contract. There were 6800 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 5084 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AVGO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 106 contract(s) at a $250.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.0K, with a price of $264.0 per contract. There were 4848 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4214 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For WOLF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WOLF#NYSE">WOLF</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 58 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1255 contract(s) at a $2.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $156.8K, with a price of $125.0 per contract. There were 7520 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3636 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding TER (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TER#NASDAQ">TER</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 365 day(s) on June 18, 2026. Parties traded 344 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $306.1K, with a price of $890.0 per contract. There were 16 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3368 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVTS (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVTS#NASDAQ">NVTS</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 212 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 250 contract(s) at a $8.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $47.5K, with a price of $190.0 per contract. There were 2663 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2561 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ORCL (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 9 day(s) on June 27, 2025. This event was a transfer of 126 contract(s) at a $210.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 39 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $46.6K, with a price of $370.0 per contract. There were 818 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1378 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding CSCO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 365 day(s) on June 18, 2026. Parties traded 121 contract(s) at a $57.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.1K, with a price of $274.0 per contract. There were 1142 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1181 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For APPS (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APPS#NASDAQ">APPS</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 30 day(s) on July 18, 2025. This event was a transfer of 180 contract(s) at a $5.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.1K, with a price of $201.0 per contract. There were 2715 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 987 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 about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

APPS

NVTS

WOLF

10 Information Technology Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Arista Networks Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANET#NYSE">ANET</a>) Monday announced the appointment of Todd Nightingale as president and chief operating officer, effective on or about July 1, 2025, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/jp-morgan">according to JPMorgan.</a>
The Arista Networks Analyst: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/58ac4af2b85e930001e6383f/samik-chatterjee">Analyst Samik Chatterjee</a> maintained an Overweight rating on the stock.
The Arista Networks Thesis: Nightingale was the CEO of Fastly Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLY#NYSE">FSLY</a>) from September 2022 to June 2025 and held various roles at Cisco Systems Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) prior to that,Chatterjee said in the note.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
&#8220;Nightingale joined Cisco Systems after it acquired Meraki and was instrumental in growing the Meraki portfolio," the analyst added.
"We see the appointment, in addition to recent internal promotions, as part of bolstering the executive ranks as well as succession planning at Arista, likely addressing to some extent concerns from long-only investors," the analyst wrote.
ANET Price Action: Shares of Arista Networks had declined by 3.6% to $91.59 at the time of publication on Tuesday.
Read More: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/25/06/45946624/canaan-stock-a-deep-dive-into-analyst-perspectives-8-ratings">Are NVIDIA&#8217;s Ethernet Wins Signs of Hope or Horror for Arista?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Reiteration

Movers

ANET

FSLY

Arista Networks Names New COO, Experience At Fastly, Cisco Systems

During the last three months, 15 analysts shared their evaluations of Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), revealing diverse outlooks 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">5</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</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">3</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">2</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">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Cisco Systems, revealing an average target of $68.53, a high estimate of $75.00, and a low estimate of $60.00. Experiencing a 0.39% decline, the current average is now lower than the previous average price target of $68.80. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1750104058_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Exploring Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Overview</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Cisco Systems by financial experts. The following summary presents 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>Matthew Niknam</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amit Daryanani</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$72.00</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Fish</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$64.00</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Atif Malik</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$71.00</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Meta Marshall</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tim Long</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$66.00</td>
<td>$61.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Samik Chatterjee</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Genovese</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$74.00</td>
<td>$63.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Rakers</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$72.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amit Daryanani</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Genovese</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$63.00</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Samik Chatterjee</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Atif Malik</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
<td>$73.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Meta Marshall</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Fish</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$72.00</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 Cisco Systems. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Cisco Systems compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Understanding forecasts, analysts offer estimates for Cisco Systems's future value. Examining the current and prior targets provides insight into analysts' changing expectations.</li>
</ul>
For valuable insights into Cisco Systems's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CSCO/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Cisco Systems analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Cisco Systems</h2>
Cisco Systems is the largest provider of networking equipment in the world and one of the largest software companies in the world. Its largest businesses are selling networking hardware and software (where it has leading market shares) and cybersecurity software such as firewalls. It also has collaboration products, like its Webex suite, and observability tools. It primarily outsources its manufacturing to third parties and has a large sales and marketing staff—25,000 strong across 90 countries. Overall, Cisco employs 80,000 people and sells its products globally.
<h3>Understanding the Numbers: Cisco Systems's Finances</h3>
Market Capitalization: Boasting an elevated market capitalization, the company surpasses industry averages. This signals substantial size and strong market recognition.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Cisco Systems's financials over 3M reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 11.39% as of 30 April, 2025, showcasing a substantial increase in 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 Information Technology sector.
Net Margin: Cisco Systems's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 17.61% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): Cisco Systems's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 5.45% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Cisco Systems's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 2.07%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Cisco Systems's debt-to-equity ratio is below industry norms, indicating a sound financial structure with a ratio of 0.64.
<h2>The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know</h2>
Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter. 
Some analysts will also offer forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide further guidance on stocks. Investors who use analyst ratings should note that this specialized advice comes from humans and may be subject to error.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Cisco Systems Stock: A Deep Dive Into Analyst Perspectives (15 Ratings)

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with CSCO, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 12 options trades for Cisco Systems.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 50% bullish and 33%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $25,600, and 11, calls, for a total amount of $1,286,325.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $40.0 and $65.0 for Cisco Systems, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Cisco Systems's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Cisco Systems's whale activity within a strike price range from $40.0 to $65.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Cisco Systems Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1750089655_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$15.75</td>
<td>$15.7</td>
<td>$15.75</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$222.0K</td>
<td>594</td>
<td align="right">143</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$20.25</td>
<td>$20.15</td>
<td>$20.15</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$201.5K</td>
<td>543</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$27.85</td>
<td>$27.1</td>
<td>$27.1</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$189.7K</td>
<td>365</td>
<td align="right">70</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$5.45</td>
<td>$5.53</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$158.6K</td>
<td>23.5K</td>
<td align="right">307</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$11.75</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$98.7K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td align="right">84</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Cisco Systems</h3>
Cisco Systems is the largest provider of networking equipment in the world and one of the largest software companies in the world. Its largest businesses are selling networking hardware and software (where it has leading market shares) and cybersecurity software such as firewalls. It also has collaboration products, like its Webex suite, and observability tools. It primarily outsources its manufacturing to third parties and has a large sales and marketing staff—25,000 strong across 90 countries. Overall, Cisco employs 80,000 people and sells its products globally.
In light of the recent options history for Cisco Systems, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Cisco Systems</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 6,257,762, the price of CSCO is up by 2.31%, reaching $65.57.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 58 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Cisco Systems</h3>
Over the past month, 1 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $73.0.
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&#x2A; An analyst from Deutsche Bank upgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $73. 
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Decoding Cisco Systems's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Deutsche Bank analyst Matthew Niknam upgrades Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) from Hold to Buy and raises the price target from $65 to $73.

Upgrades

Deutsche Bank Upgrades Cisco Systems to Buy, Raises Price Target to $73

Press Releases

Cisco Duo Reimagines Identity Security to Combat AI Era Threats

Cisco Research: Innovation Funding Gap Revealed in Canadian Businesses

VAST Data and Cisco Expand Partnership to Deliver Turnkey, Scalable Infrastructure for Enterprise AI

Cisco Research: A Major Infrastructure Shift Is Underway. AI Could Double the Strain or Solve It

Cisco Transforms Security for the Agentic AI Era, Further Fusing Security into the Network

Cisco Powers AI-Ready Data Centers, From Hyperscale to Enterprise

Cisco Unveils Secure Network Architecture to Accelerate Workplace AI Transformation

Legal

Alpha Modus Ventures Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against Cisco Systems

Cisco & JP Morgan to Host Innovation Tech Talk

Cisco & Wells Fargo to Host Silicon One Tech Talk

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