La cadena de opciones muestra datos clave de las opciones de acciones de ENCE Energia y Celulosa a varios precios de ejercicio y fechas de vencimiento. Los operadores utilizan esta información para analizar posibles operaciones y evaluar el sentimiento del mercado para ENCE Energia y Celulosa..

ENCE Energia y Celulosa (OTC:EEYCF) Bolsa, Cadena de Opciones

ENCE Energia y Celulosa SA produces and sells pulp. The company has two segments namely ENCE Pulp and ENCE Renewables. ENCE Pulp segment includes the pulp production and sale activities. ENCE Renewables segment involves Biomass, Biogas, Energy services and generation and sale of carbon credits. The vast majority of revenue comes from Pulp Segment.

ENCE ENERGIA Y CELSA by Ence Energia Y Celulosa SA

ENCE Energia y Celulosa SA

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Nano Nuclear Energy (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NNE#NASDAQ">NNE</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 NNE, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 10 options trades for Nano Nuclear Energy.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 70% bullish and 30%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $37,000, and 9, calls, for a total amount of $717,649.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $25.0 to $35.0 for Nano Nuclear Energy during the past quarter. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Nano Nuclear Energy's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Nano Nuclear Energy's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $25.0 to $35.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Nano Nuclear Energy Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733340713_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>NNE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$3.3</td>
<td>$3.3</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$202.6K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NNE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$6.3</td>
<td>$6.6</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$198.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>523</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NNE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$6.6</td>
<td>$6.3</td>
<td>$6.6</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$66.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>219</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NNE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$6.6</td>
<td>$6.3</td>
<td>$6.6</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$66.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>119</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NNE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$5.8</td>
<td>$5.5</td>
<td>$5.5</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$55.0K</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Nano Nuclear Energy</h3>
Nano Nuclear Energy Inc is an early-stage nuclear energy company developing smaller, cheaper, and safer advanced portable clean energy solutions. It is focused on four business lines as part of development: Micro Nuclear Reactor Business is developing the next-generation nuclear microreactors, in particular ZEUS, a solid core battery reactor, and ODIN, a low-pressure salt coolant reactor. Fuel Fabrication Business, Fuel Transportation Business and Nuclear Consultation Services.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Nano Nuclear Energy, 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 Nano Nuclear Energy</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 6,156,946, the price of NNE is down by -1.22%, reaching $26.3.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 13 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Nano Nuclear Energy</h3>
Over the past month, 2 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $58.0.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from HC Wainwright &amp; Co. has revised its rating downward to Buy, adjusting the price target to $50. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Benchmark has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Nano Nuclear Energy, which currently sits at a price target of $66. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Nano Nuclear Energy options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Options

Markets

Spotlight on Nano Nuclear Energy: Analyzing the Surge in Options Activity

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on MARA Holdings.
Looking at options history for MARA Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MARA#NASDAQ">MARA</a>) we detected 39 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 46% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 48% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 9 are puts, for a total amount of $506,705 and 30, calls, for a total amount of $3,242,596.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $5.0 to $50.0 for MARA Holdings over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for MARA Holdings options trades today is 7765.15 with a total volume of 36,427.00.
In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for MARA Holdings's big money trades within a strike price range of $5.0 to $50.0 over the last 30 days.
<h3>MARA Holdings 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733340708_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MARA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$12.45</td>
<td>$11.65</td>
<td>$11.95</td>
<td>$37.00</td>
<td>$1.4M</td>
<td>4.1K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MARA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$11.15</td>
<td>$10.1</td>
<td>$10.33</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$309.9K</td>
<td>5.4K</td>
<td>602</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MARA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$7.75</td>
<td>$7.3</td>
<td>$7.41</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$222.3K</td>
<td>14.4K</td>
<td>958</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MARA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/06/24</td>
<td>$4.65</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$4.63</td>
<td>$29.50</td>
<td>$104.1K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MARA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/06/24</td>
<td>$4.25</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$4.2</td>
<td>$29.00</td>
<td>$94.5K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
<td>497</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About MARA Holdings</h3>
MARA Holdings Inc leverages digital asset compute to support the energy transformation. It secures the blockchain ledger and supports the energy transformation by converting clean, stranded, or underutilized energy into economic value.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with MARA Holdings, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Where Is MARA Holdings Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 46,724,785, the price of MARA is up by 0.86%, reaching $25.34.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 84 days from now.</li>
</ul>
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;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>.
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 MARA Holdings, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

MARA

MARA Holdings Unusual Options Activity For December 04

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Shopify (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHOP#NYSE">SHOP</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in SHOP usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 36 extraordinary options activities for Shopify. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 50% leaning bullish and 33% bearish. Among these notable options, 5 are puts, totaling $296,377, and 31 are calls, amounting to $1,900,164.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $45.0 to $160.0 for Shopify over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Shopify'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 Shopify's whale trades within a strike price range from $45.0 to $160.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Shopify Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733340702_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>SHOP</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$30.25</td>
<td>$29.5</td>
<td>$29.76</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$297.6K</td>
<td>3.8K</td>
<td align="right">103</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHOP</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$27.8</td>
<td>$27.0</td>
<td>$27.6</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$276.0K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td align="right">149</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHOP</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$36.7</td>
<td>$34.1</td>
<td>$35.1</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$105.3K</td>
<td>7.1K</td>
<td align="right">35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHOP</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$37.35</td>
<td>$37.15</td>
<td>$37.21</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$100.4K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td align="right">28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SHOP</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$48.4</td>
<td>$48.15</td>
<td>$48.4</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$96.8K</td>
<td>7.3K</td>
<td align="right">20</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Shopify</h3>
Shopify offers an e-commerce platform primarily to small and medium-size businesses. The firm has two segments. The subscription solutions segment allows Shopify merchants to conduct e-commerce on a variety of platforms, including the company's website, physical stores, pop-up stores, kiosks, social networks (Facebook), and Amazon. The merchant solutions segment offers add-on products for the platform that facilitate e-commerce and include Shopify Payments, Shopify Shipping, and Shopify Capital.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Shopify, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Where Is Shopify Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 5,192,439, the price of SHOP is up 0.83% at $112.79. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 69 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Shopify</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $118.8.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Wells Fargo has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Shopify, which currently sits at a price target of $120. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from RBC Capital keeps a Outperform rating on Shopify with a target price of $130. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Keybanc has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Shopify, which currently sits at a price target of $130. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Piper Sandler keeps a Neutral rating on Shopify with a target price of $94. 
&#x2A; An analyst from JMP Securities persists with their Market Outperform rating on Shopify, maintaining a target price of $120. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Shopify with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

SHOP

Shopify Options Trading: A Deep Dive into Market Sentiment

The Biden-Harris administration has announced an initiative to improve access to gene therapies for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/sickle-cell-disease">sickle cell disease</a> under the Cell and Gene Therapy Access Model.
This voluntary model, developed by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, seeks to enhance access to these therapies, improve patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs by tying payments to treatment efficacy for Medicaid recipients.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/42243241/fda-probes-potential-life-threatening-blood-cancer-risks-linked-to-bluebird-bios-skysona-gene-therapy" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA Probes Potential Life-Threatening Blood Cancer Risks Linked To Bluebird Bio&#8217;s Skysona Gene Therapy</a>
Two drug manufacturers, Bluebird Bio Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLUE#NASDAQ">BLUE</a>) and Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRTX#NASDAQ">VRTX</a>), have agreed to participate in the model with their FDA-approved therapies, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/42016766/jp-morgan-downgrades-gene-therapy-focused-bluebird-bio-cites-limited-funding-options" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lyfgenia</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36657324/gene-therapy-for-beta-thalassemia-crispr-therapeuticsvertexs-casgevy-secures-fda-nod-ahead-of-schedu" rel="noreferrer noopener">Casgevy</a>.
CMS is working to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-takes-next-steps-increase-access-sickle-cell-disease-treatments" rel="noreferrer noopener">engage</a> states and U.S. territories enrolled in the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, providing technical support and data infrastructure for implementation.
States may apply to participate starting this month, with applications accepted until Feb. 28, 2025.
Over 100,000 individuals in the U.S. live with sickle cell disease, more than half of whom rely on Medicaid. The disease significantly reduces life expectancy and imposes an annual economic burden of nearly $3 billion in healthcare costs.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Lyfgenia and Casgevy in December 2023 as gene therapies targeting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/23/12/36156713/fda-approves-first-gene-editing-cell-therapy-for-sickle-cell-disease-an-inherited-blood-disorder" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sickle cell disease</a>.
Launching in January 2025, the model allows states to join until January 2026. States can also apply for optional funding to support implementation.
This initiative aligns with President Biden's 2022 Executive Order to expand access to novel therapies and reduce prescription drug costs. Future expansions of the model may include other cell and gene therapies.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42321484/fords-mustang-mach-e-sales-skyrocket-383-in-november-amid-growing-ev-momentum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ford&#8217;s Mustang Mach-E Sales Skyrocket 38.3% In November Amid Growing EV Momentum</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Biotech

News

Health Care

General

BLUE

VRTX

FDA-Approved Sickle Cell Therapies From Bluebird Bio And Vertex Join Medicaid Innovation Program

WIIM

SGBX

Safe & Green shares are trading higher after the company announced it signed two contracts for modular construction projects.

Hershey shares are trading higher amid unconfirmed rumors suggesting the company is in talks to be acquired.

Bluebird Bio shares are trading higher after the company announced it joined the CMMI cell and gene therapy access model and will offer outcomes-based agreements to expand Medicaid access to LYFGENIA gene therapy for sickle cell disease.

In November, Applovin Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APP#NASDAQ">APP</a>) reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41791722/applovin-stock-soars-after-q3-earnings-report-revenue-beat-eps-beat-strong-software-platform-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">third-quarter revenue</a> of $1.20 billion, up 39%, topping the analyst consensus estimate of $1.13 billion. EPS of $1.25 beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.94.
Despite the strong results, Goldman Sachs analyst Eric Sheridan maintained a Neutral rating on the stock, with a price target of $220.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41820580/applovins-high-valuation-and-expansion-beyond-gaming-prompt-analyst-caution" rel="noreferrer noopener">AppLovin&#8217;s High Valuation and Expansion Beyond Gaming Prompt Analyst Caution</a>
Applovin&#8217;s board raised the company&#8217;s share buyback program by $2 billion.&nbsp;
The company expects fourth-quarter revenue of $1.24 billion—$1.26 billion compared to the consensus of $1.25 billion.&nbsp;
Sheridan&#8217;s rating reflects his view that the stock from current levels is potentially volatile on short- and medium-term results. It presents a more balanced risk and reward in a multi-year timeframe.
Sheridan recapitulated his recently hosted investor meeting with AppLovin chief Adam Foroughi, CFO Matt Stumpf, and Head of IR David Hsiao. The analyst flagged the evolution of AXON 2.0 to drive continued growth, strong operating margins, a capital-light model, and longer-term upside optionality by applying generative AI to a creative and faster cadence of developer enhancements.
Like the trends and themes from their third-quarter 2024 earnings call, management highlighted how AXON 2.0 continues to evolve as a neural net and AI platform that can improve the efficiency of its current advertising business. In addition, it demonstrated some early success around the eCommerce opportunity. The last point also aligns with some of the analyst&#8217;s early fourth-quarter advertising industry channel checks.
Despite the management team&#8217;s success in terms of revenue growth (as reflected in its market cap &#8211; shares are up 856% year-to-date), the company continues to emphasize a focus on driving operational execution in a relatively asset-light model while maintaining company culture, cost efficiencies, and returning capital to shareholders.  
While management expressed optimism about the multi-year market opportunity ahead, the key investor debate will likely remain focused on the linearity of the path forward in terms of sequential and year-on-year revenue trajectory as the platform scales, Sheridan said.
Putting aside any such quarterly short-term debates, Sheridan noted that AppLovin was positively exposed to the broader secular growth themes in advertising of AI and machine learning, increased ad budgets, and campaign efficiency.
In the coming quarters, investors are likely to continue to examine operating results for outcomes around the emerging revenue streams (into 2025 and 2026), especially regarding the ramp of the broader commerce opportunity.
On the operating fundamentals, Sheridan remained constructive that AppLovin has a collection of businesses that can produce above-average advertising and marketing industry growth (Sheridan&#8217;s fiscal 2024-2027 revenue CAGR is ~19%) and a strong margin profile in normalized mobile ads and mobile gaming landscape.
Sheridan projected fiscal 2024 revenue of $4.59 billion and EPS of $4.02.
Price Action: APP stock is up 1.3% at $371.32 at last check Wednesday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42321266/meta-joins-big-techs-shift-to-nuclear-power-for-ai-ambitions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Meta Joins Big Tech&#8217;s Shift To Nuclear Power For AI Ambitions</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Price Target

Reiteration

Analyst Ratings

Tech

Trading Ideas

Applovin Set To Capitalize On AI Frenzy, Ad Growth, Analyst Cautions On Near-Term Volatility

Bank of America Securities has downgraded Alector, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALEC#NASDAQ">ALEC</a>), citing the failure <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/alzheimers-disease">of its AL002 program</a>. 
Alector recently released results from the INVOKE-2 Phase 2 trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of AL002 in slowing disease progression in individuals with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42192908/alectorabbvie-partnered-alzheimers-drug-disappoints-in-mid-stage-study-lays-off-17-of-workforce" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early Alzheimer&#8217;s disease (AD)</a>.
But AL002 failed to meet the primary endpoint of slowing Alzheimer&#8217;s clinical progression as measured by the Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB).
The analyst writes, &#8220;We see this as likely the end for the AL002 program, and combined with the 17% workforce reduction, we do not expect the $250M opt-in milestone from AbbVie Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) to be realized.&#8221;
The AL002 results are expected to impact sentiment as investors wait for Phase 3 data on latozinemab for frontotemporal dementia&nbsp;(FTD).
INFRONT-3 Phase 3 trial completed enrollment in October 2023 and a treatment <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/g41786512/alector-reports-third-quarter-2024-financial-results-and-provides-business-update" rel="noreferrer noopener">duration of 96 weeks</a>.
The lack of near-term clinical milestones adds further pressure.
The analyst has downgraded from Neutral to Underperform and reduced the price target to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ALEC/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">$1 (previously $9)</a>, reflecting the removal of AL002, lower valuation for AL001, and the significant investment required for future pipeline growth.
BofA anticipates that Alector&#8217;s next big milestone will be the Phase 3 INFRONT-3 trial results, which are expected in late 2025 or early 2026.
While the analyst remains optimistic about AL001 and its approach of targeting progranulin (compared to AL002, which focuses on TREM2), the novel pathway for treating FTD carries a similar level of biological risk.
AL101 offers another potential avenue for Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, but BofA is cautious about its prospects until it demonstrates functional benefits, which are key to its success.
Over the next year, the analyst views Alector as being in a &#8220;wait-and-see&#8221; phase, with limited opportunities for significant progress in the near term.
Price Action: Alector stock is down 10.7% at $2.25 at last check Wednesday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/12/42321510/mastercard-settles-uk-antitrust-lawsuit-for-250-million" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mastercard Settles UK Antitrust Lawsuit For $250 Million</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Downgrades

Movers

ABBV

ALEC

Neurology-Focused Alector Downgraded On Failed Alzheimer's Study, BofA Securities Highlights Lack Of Catalysts

CTRN

Citi Trends shares are trading higher after Craig-Hallum and DA Davidson raised their respective price targets on the stock.

Super Micro Computer Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) shares are trading higher by 25% to $41.47 since Monday&#8217;s open. The company this week released findings from an internal investigation led by its Special Committee concluding there was &#8220;no evidence of misconduct or fraud&#8221; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42290180/cleared-of-fraud-but-super-micros-visibility-into-compliance-remains-low-says-analyst">involving its management or board</a>.
What To Know: The review, supported by legal and forensic experts, assessed rehiring practices, sales and revenue recognition, export controls and related-party disclosures. While the findings were largely reassuring, they also exposed lapses in governance practices, prompting calls for structural reforms.
Key recommendations accepted by the board include appointing a new CFO to replace David Weigand and bolstering oversight with new hires such as a chief compliance officer, a general counsel and a chief accounting officer. The company also committed to expanding training programs and tightening financial controls to address identified weaknesses.
Despite these proactive measures, JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee remains cautious, maintaining an &#8220;Underweight&#8221; rating on the stock. Chatterjee <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42290180/cleared-of-fraud-but-super-micros-visibility-into-compliance-remains-low-says-analyst">highlighted two critical risks</a>: the response of Super Micro&#8217;s independent auditor, BDO, and whether Nasdaq will extend the timeline for the company to regain compliance with listing standards.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42322348/whats-going-on-with-bank-of-america-bac-shares">What&#8217;s Going On With Bank Of America Shares</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How To Buy SMCI Stock</h2>
By now you're likely curious about how to participate in the market for Super Micro Computer &#8211; be it to purchase shares, or even attempt to bet against the company.
Buying shares is typically done through a brokerage account. You can find a list of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-stock-trading-platforms">possible trading platforms here.</a> Many will allow you to buy ‘fractional shares,' which allows you to own portions of stock without buying an entire share. For example, some stock, like Berkshire Hathaway, can cost thousands of dollars to own just one share. However, if you only want to invest a fraction of that, brokerages will allow you to do so.
In the the case of Super Micro Computer, which is trading at $41.82 as of publishing time, $100 would buy you 2.39 shares of stock.
If you're looking to bet against a company, the process is more complex. You'll need access to an options trading platform, or a broker who will allow you to ‘go short' a share of stock by lending you the shares to sell. The process of shorting a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock">stock can be found at this resource.</a> Otherwise, if your broker allows you to trade options, you can either buy a put option, or sell a call option at a strike price above where shares are currently trading &#8211; either way it allows you to profit off of the share price decline.
According to data from&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>, SMCI has a 52-week high of $122.90 and a 52-week low of $17.25.

SMCI

What's Going On With Super Micro Computer (SMCI) Stock?

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on Humana. Our analysis of options history for Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) revealed 13 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 15% of traders were bullish, while 69% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 6 were puts, with a value of $368,917, and 7 were calls, valued at $569,390.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $260.0 to $410.0 for Humana during the past quarter. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Humana'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 Humana's whale trades within a strike price range from $260.0 to $410.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Humana Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733339807_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$39.7</td>
<td>$31.7</td>
<td>$35.0</td>
<td>$260.00</td>
<td>$175.0K</td>
<td align="right">9</td>
<td align="right">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$9.5</td>
<td>$8.5</td>
<td>$8.7</td>
<td>$305.00</td>
<td>$173.9K</td>
<td align="right">42</td>
<td align="right">201</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$22.7</td>
<td>$21.8</td>
<td>$21.9</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$78.8K</td>
<td align="right">350</td>
<td align="right">200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$22.9</td>
<td>$21.8</td>
<td>$22.0</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$74.8K</td>
<td align="right">350</td>
<td align="right">163</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$23.0</td>
<td>$21.8</td>
<td>$22.0</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$72.6K</td>
<td align="right">350</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Humana</h3>
Humana is one of the largest private health insurers in the us with a focus on administering Medicare Advantage plans. The firm has built a niche specializing in government-sponsored programs, with nearly all its medical membership stemming from individual and group Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and the military's Tricare program. The firm is also a leader in stand-alone prescription drug plans for seniors enrolled in traditional fee-for-service Medicare. Beyond medical insurance, the company provides other healthcare services, including primary-care services, at-home services, and pharmacy benefit management.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Humana, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Humana's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 623,874, the price of HUM is down by -1.46%, reaching $286.87.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 50 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Humana</h3>
A total of 1 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $308.0.
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;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; In a positive move, an analyst from B of A Securities has upgraded their rating to Neutral and adjusted the price target to $308. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Humana options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Decoding Humana's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards Altimmune (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALT#NASDAQ">ALT</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in ALT usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 13 extraordinary options activities for Altimmune. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 38% leaning bullish and 53% bearish. Among these notable options, 2 are puts, totaling $76,800, and 11 are calls, amounting to $506,795.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $5.0 to $15.0 for Altimmune over the recent three months. 
<h3>Analyzing 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 Altimmune'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 Altimmune's whale activity within a strike price range from $5.0 to $15.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Altimmune Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733339802_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ALT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/27/24</td>
<td>$3.6</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$7.00</td>
<td>$102.0K</td>
<td>315</td>
<td align="right">307</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$7.4</td>
<td>$7.2</td>
<td>$7.25</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$72.4K</td>
<td>335</td>
<td align="right">100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$5.8</td>
<td>$5.5</td>
<td>$5.74</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$45.9K</td>
<td>68</td>
<td align="right">85</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$2.15</td>
<td>$2.0</td>
<td>$2.15</td>
<td>$11.00</td>
<td>$43.0K</td>
<td>355</td>
<td align="right">201</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$4.8</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$40.0K</td>
<td>3.6K</td>
<td align="right">100</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Altimmune</h3>
Altimmune Inc is engaged in developing treatments for obesity and liver diseases. The Company's pipeline includes next-generation peptide therapeutics for obesity and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (for both, pemvidutide, formerly known as ALT-801), and for chronic hepatitis B (HepTcell). The Company is managed and operates as a single business focused on the research and development of treatments for various diseases and disorders, and vaccines.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Altimmune, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of Altimmune</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 8,911,145, the price of ALT is up 14.11% at $10.03. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 112 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Altimmune</h3>
2 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $19.0.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from HC Wainwright &amp; Co. lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $12. 
&#x2A; An analyst from UBS downgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $26. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Altimmune options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Looking At Altimmune's Recent Unusual Options Activity

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards Cava Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAVA#NYSE">CAVA</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in CAVA usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 14 extraordinary options activities for Cava Group. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 35% leaning bullish and 42% bearish. Among these notable options, 5 are puts, totaling $202,732, and 9 are calls, amounting to $456,252.
<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 $120.0 and $170.0 for Cava Group, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Cava Group'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 Cava Group's whale trades within a strike price range from $120.0 to $170.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Cava Group Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733339797_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$20.5</td>
<td>$20.4</td>
<td>$20.4</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$101.9K</td>
<td>604</td>
<td align="right">64</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/10/25</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$3.9</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$136.00</td>
<td>$84.8K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td align="right">250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$7.8</td>
<td>$7.86</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$76.2K</td>
<td>2.2K</td>
<td align="right">199</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$18.4</td>
<td>$17.5</td>
<td>$17.95</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$53.8K</td>
<td>488</td>
<td align="right">31</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$49.1</td>
<td>$47.7</td>
<td>$48.4</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$48.4K</td>
<td>172</td>
<td align="right">10</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Cava Group</h3>
Cava Group Inc owns and operates a chain of restaurants. It is the category-defining Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant brand, bringing together healthful food and bold, satisfying flavors at scale. The company's dips, spreads, and dressings are centrally produced and sold in grocery stores. The company's operations are conducted as two reportable segments: CAVA and Zoes Kitchen. The company generates the majority of its revenue from the CAVA segment.
In light of the recent options history for Cava Group, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Cava Group</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 1,402,978, with CAVA's price up by 3.55%, positioned at $146.88.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 83 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Cava Group</h3>
Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $160.8.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Stifel keeps a Buy rating on Cava Group with a target price of $175. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Barclays has decided to maintain their Equal-Weight rating on Cava Group, which currently sits at a price target of $142. 
&#x2A; An analyst from TD Cowen has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Cava Group, which currently sits at a price target of $150. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wedbush keeps a Outperform rating on Cava Group with a target price of $190. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Loop Capital continues to hold a Hold rating for Cava Group, targeting a price of $147. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Cava Group with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

CAVA

What the Options Market Tells Us About Cava Group

Okta Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OKTA#NASDAQ">OKTA</a>) shares were climbing on Wednesday after the company reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/12/42303322/okta-q3-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-strong-guidance-shares-surge">upbeat third-quarter results</a>.
The company reported its results amid an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings">exciting earnings season</a>. Here are some key analyst takeaways.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">BMO Capital Markets On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/585beadcb5a482000151d18b/keith-bachman">Analyst Keith Bachman</a> reiterated a Market Perform rating while lifting the price target from $103 to $105.
Okta generated revenue growth of 14% year-on-year, exceeded consensus of 11%, Bachman said in a note. "We believe Okta executed well against a macro that remains characterized by ongoing scrutiny and software rationalization, consistent with the past few quarters," he added.
The company provided a conservative guidance for fiscal 2026, which "sets an achievable bar," particularly for revenue growth of 7%, the analyst stated. "While this quarter is a step in the right direction, we continue to harbor concerns on long-term product expansion and competition," he further wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Needham On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/601a8839a6fe6f00010c6966/mike-cikos">Analyst Mike Cikos</a> maintained a Buy rating while raising the price target from $100 to $115.
Okta&#8217;s results exhibited "improved execution, with solid performance from Large Customers, Partners, and New Products," Cikos said. The quarter indicated "early signs of product adoption," with the company's offering significantly expanding in recent quarters, as well as easing headwinds from the "COVID cohort," he added.
Investors may be "caught off-guard" by the company's preliminary guidance of revenues between $2.77 billion and $2.78 billion in fiscal 2026, which missed the consensus estimate of $2.81 billion, the analyst stated. "However, we see the preliminary outlook as just that — preliminary; which is conservative based on management&#8217;s typical approach to guidance — setting for cRPO," he further wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Stifel On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/6022b60ca6fe6f0001873d54/adam-borg">Analyst Adam Borg</a> reiterated a Buy rating while raising the price target from $108 to $115.
Okta delivered strong results for the third quarter with all key metrics above guidance, "although several metrics including NRR and new logo additions remain softer," Borg said. The company's fourth-quarter guidance was above expectations, and its full-year guidance was raised by more than the beat, he added.
Okta&#8217;s 2026 outlook "will prove conservative as the year plays out," the analyst stated. "Given Okta&#8217;s broadening workforce/customer identity portfolio, the company plans to build out GTM specializations next year to reinvigorate growth, moves we support," he further wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Piper Sandler On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/590783e6290fa70001409b4a/rob-owens">Analyst Rob Owens</a> reaffirmed a Neutral rating while raising the price target from $85 to $90.
Okta's subscription revenue of $651 million represented a deceleration to 14% year-on-year growth "but beat our estimate of $635M," Owens said. The company's total revenue came in higher than the midpoint of guidance by 2.5%, "slightly above last quarter&#8217;s beat but below the one-year average," he added.
The company reported cRPO of $2.062 billion, which topped the guidance midpoint by $75 million, the analyst stated. "Commentary surrounding down-sell pressures on renewals potentially easing in 2H&#8217;26 was encouraging, but clarity on the sustainable growth remains hazy," he further wrote.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Goldman Sachs On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/589dc33e43eaaa000122c59a/gabriela-borges">Analyst Gabriela Borges</a> maintained a Buy rating while raising the price target from $97 to $107.
Okta reported its quarterly revenues, EBIT and cRPO higher than consensus by 2%, 15% and 4%, respectively, Borges said. "New products represented 15% of bookings, up from last year as Okta has an expanded product portfolio, she added.
Its fourth-quarter revenue and EBIT guidance came in 3% and 10% above the Street, while cRPO guidance is 1% high, the analyst stated. Although management's initial fiscal 2026 revenue guidance is 1% below the Street, "we believe is consistent with investor expectations at +7% yoy," she further wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Guggenheim Securities On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/587f78d077f9dd000126ef0f/john-difucci">Analyst John DiFucci</a> maintained a Buy rating and price target of $130.
Okta "easily exceeded" the consensus estimates and guided above the Street, DiFucci said. He added, however, that the company's preliminary fiscal 2026 revenue growth guidance of 7% came in below consensus of 9%.
"Although management noted that it was no longer incorporating additional conservatism into guidance due to the incident of October 2023, we estimate that a meaningful amount of conservatism is still included in preliminary FY26 numbers," the analyst wrote. 
Management indicated continued seeing pressure on seat number in deals, "but this is at least partially being offset by growth in new product sales," he further stated.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">RBC Capital Markets On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/5880b6f377f9dd00011b0ab2/matthew-hedberg">Analyst Matthew Hedberg</a> had an Outperform rating and a price target of $101.
"Okta delivered another solid quarter relative to expectations," Hedberg wrote in a note, as well as that cRPO grew by 13%, higher than guidance of 9%.
The company's fourth-quarter cRPO guidance of 9% year-on-year "looks conservative," the analyst stated. "The FY/26 early look includes a sales org shift to specialized selling, a disappointing/conservative 7% revenue growth vs prior consensus at 9.6% and at least 22%/24% OI/FCF margins that was in-line with consensus," he further wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Oppenheimer On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/5937f6b185b07a0001ac364f/ittai-kidron">Analyst Ittai Kidron</a> reiterated an Outperform rating and price target of $125.
Okta's third-quarter results were strong and fourth-quarter guidance came above consensus, Kidron said. "Large customer trends and product cross-sell activity remain healthy and are offsetting ongoing macro headwinds on new customer adds (+150 QoQ) and existing customer seat/license/MAU expansion," he added.
While management maintained a cautious tone regarding the macro environment, they were increasingly positive on product and cross-sell opportunities, the analyst stated. "Consistent with this, Okta is investing (new products, GSI/channel, etc.), and evolving its GTM (specialization), which bodes well for continued near-term upside driven by existing customers," he further wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">KeyBanc Capital Markets On Okta</h1>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/62eacb8a9bab060001dbd41a/eric-heath">Analyst </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/62eacb8a9bab060001dbd41a/eric-heath">Eric Heath</a> reiterated a Sector Weight rating on the stock.
Okta's beat on cRPO, revenue, and margins was "solid," Heath said. The company guided its fourth-quarter cRPO $26 million above consensus versus guiding below in the prior two quarters, he added.
Management does not expect the outperformance from the initial revenue guide for fiscal 2025 to repeat in fiscal 2026, the analyst stated. "Assuming typical seasonal cRPO growth and consistent cRPO coverage, it may suggest a similar degree of upside," he further wrote.
OKTA Price Action: Shares of Okta had risen by 4.39% to $85.22 at the time of publication on Wednesday.
Read More: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42306809/palantir-salesforce-okta-meta-and-tesla-why-these-5-stocks-are-on-investors-radars-today">Palantir, Salesforce, Okta, Meta, And Tesla: Why These 5 Stocks Are On Investors&#8217; Radars Today</a>
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Earnings

Earnings Beats

Guidance

OKTA

Okta Posts Q3 Beat, Guidance Miss: Analyst Says 'Sustainable Growth Remains Hazy'

SAP shares are trading higher in possible sympathy with Salesforce, which rose after reporting quarterly earnings.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-KMvpiUAbk" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-KMvpiUAbk">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-KMvpiUAbk</a>

Federal Reserve

$BTC

Fed Chair Powell Says Central Bank Cannot Take Debt And Deficits Into Account In Setting Rates; Needs To Focus On Inflation; The Fed Is Far From A Situation Of Fiscal Dominance, Uses Its Tools To Achieve Mandate On Inflation And Jobs; Bitcoin Is Used As A Speculative Asset; It Is A Competitor With Gold Not The U.S. Dollar; Low And Moderate Income Families In The U.S. Are Under Pressure Even Though Aggregate Numbers Are Strong

PYPL

PayPal shares are trading higher. The company presented at the UBS Global Technology Conference today.

JP Morgan analyst Doug Anmuth named Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) the top pick following a solid start to the early holiday shopping season.
Early holiday 2024 data points suggest solid U.S. e-commerce growth, with third-party estimates indicating U.S. e-commerce Cyber Week sales growth mainly in line with Anmuth&#8217;s projected +7.5% fourth-quarter U.S. e-commerce sales growth (vs. +9.8% in fourth-quarter of 2023).
Adobe and Mastercard data suggest growth exceeded the analyst&#8217;s +7.5% estimate on Black Friday, and Adobe indicated in-line growth trends during Cyber Monday and Cyber Week.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42265010/amazon-and-walmart-dominate-black-friday-as-online-sales-soar-146" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon And Walmart Dominate Black Friday As Online Sales Soar 14.6%</a>
Salesforce data implies growth in line with Anmuth&#8217;s expectations during Black Friday and Cyber Week but with softer Cyber Monday trends. Amazon announced its Black Friday Week and Cyber Monday holiday shopping period was once again its biggest ever, with record sales, record number of items sold, and customers saving billions of dollars.
Holiday 2024 marks the shortest since 2019 (27 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas), but earlier promotions and deeper markdowns should continue to drive solid growth, the analyst said.
Consumers face still-elevated inflation and interest rates, though macro headwinds are broadly stable compared to a year ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The analyst projected U.S. e-commerce penetration at 24.5% of adjusted retail sales this holiday season, +119bps above 23.3% in 2023.
Longer-term, Anmuth noted U.S. e-commerce penetration of adjusted retail sales could nearly double from ~22% today to 40%+ supported by gains across large, underpenetrated categories such as CPG (including Grocery), Apparel &amp; Accessories, &amp; Furniture, Appliances, &amp; Equipment.
Amazon maintains a leading ~45% share of U.S. e-commerce. Anmuth noted it is well positioned during the holiday season, with strong momentum from early holiday promotions, SD1D delivery, regionalization, expansion of the Prime ecosystem, and competitive prices.
Profitero suggested Amazon prices at ~14% average discount to competitors.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Anmuth projected fourth-quarter retail revenue (non-AWS) growth of +8.9%.
The analyst modeled Amazon&#8217;s +7.6 % U.S. GMV (ex Physical Stores) growth, which is in line with his estimated +7.5 % U.S. e-commerce growth and 46.7% U.S. e-commerce share in the fourth quarter (+2bps).
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Is Amazon A Good Stock To Buy?</h2>
An investor or trader's decision to buy or sell a stock is unique to their time horizon and risk tolerance. Many typical investors evaluate earnings growth and valuation on a particular stock before making a decision. 
For example, for Amazon.com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), you'll notice that earnings in its last quarter grew 25.44% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMZN/earnings">source</a>. As an investor, you'll want to decide whether that's better or worse than what you'd like to see among stocks in your portfolio. 
On the valuation side, Amazon.com's price to earnings ratio &#8211; a measure of how much an investor pays for the company's earnings &#8211; is compressed 50.9% in the current quarter when compared with last year. That places it above similar businesses Alibaba Gr Hldgs, PDD Holdings, MercadoLibre in its sector. You'll need to decide whether that makes it more or less attractive based on how you think the company will perform over time.
There are many different valuation metrics that may help you make a decision. Find more on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMZN">Amazon.com's quote page</a>, or if you'd like a deeper dive in an advanced program, try <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga PRO</a> for free.
Price Action: AMZN stock is up 2.35% at $218.47 at last check Wednesday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/24/12/42300462/amazon-web-services-mix-of-marvell-and-trainium-still-trails-nvidia-analyst" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Web Services Mix Of Marvell And Trainium Still Trails Nvidia: Analyst</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by jamesteohart via Shutterstock

AMZN

Amazon Emerges As Top Analyst Pick In Holiday Season

Shares of Shift4 Payments, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOUR#NYSE">FOUR</a>) are trading lower Wednesday after CEO Jared Isaacman announced his nomination by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as NASA Administrator. Here&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/24/09/40842633/public-company-ceo-goes-to-space-is-there-risk-for-shareholders-when-billionaires-pursue-space-drea">what you need to know.</a>
What To Know: Isaacman, the founder and CEO of Shift4, confirmed the nomination on social media X (formerly known as Twitter), writing, "I am honored to receive President Trump's nomination to serve as the next Administrator of NASA." He also emphasized his belief in the potential of space exploration to drive advancements in manufacturing, biotechnology and energy.
Isaacman's increasing involvement in space-related ventures may have drawn attention. Recently, he participated in SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission, where he conducted a private spacewalk. These activities have potentially raised questions about his availability to lead the company and the risks posed to shareholders by his dual focus.
The news comes at a time when Shift4 has been reliant on Isaacman's leadership for its growth. Investors appear concerned about the potential impact of his departure, with today's selloff reflecting uncertainty about the company's future direction.
Shares of Shift4 have traded in a 52-week range of $42.91 to $92.30. Further updates on Isaacman's confirmation process and the company's plans for leadership may further influence market sentiment.
FOUR Price Action: Shift4 Payments shares were down 10.9% at $101.71 at the time of writing, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga pro.</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://benzinga.slack.com/archives/D072651PB4K/p1733167806337199"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="543" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/04134201/four-1024x543.png" alt="" class="wp-image-677131" style="width:486px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/04134201/four-1024x543.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/04134201/four-300x159.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/04134201/four-768x407.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/04134201/four.png 1150w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42323152/nasdaq-surges-150-points-ism-services-pmi-falls-in-november">Nasdaq Surges 150 Points; ISM Services PMI Falls In November</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock.

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